It’s Safe to Smile Again: Elmo Creator Kevin Clash Clear of Charges, Returning to “Sesame Street”
As you may know, Nicerazzi is a relatively new site, and we’re trying something new here. Part of this formula involves precedent – so it’s important to set one now.
The other day, like many sites, we reported on the shocking allegations against Kevin Clash, the talented creator and puppeteer behind the Muppet/cultural phenomenon known as Elmo. Along with so many fans, we were confused and saddened by the possibility that someone who has brought so much happiness to so many children could then do something so terrible to one.
But today, we are happy to report that Clash’s accuser has recanted his allegations. The 23-year-old man now says that the two had an “Adult, consensual relationship,” which echoes the statements previously made by Clash when all this news broke.
“This office represented the 23-year-old man who was the subject of many media reports regarding Kevin Clash,” said the accuser’s attorney in a statement to E! online. “He wants it to be known that his sexual relationship with Mr. Clash was an adult consensual relationship. He will have no further comment on the matter.”
In response to the latest development, Clash said: “I am relieved that this painful allegation has been put to rest. I will not discuss it further.”
Finally, a statement on the Sesame Street website confirms that Kevin will be allowed to return to his job without any difficulty. “We are pleased that this matter has been brought to a close, and we are happy that Kevin can move on from this unfortunate episode.”
On a personal note, we at Nicerazzi view it as unfortunate that many times news outlets are quick to pounce on the scandal of the moment – but then act hesitant (or ignore altogether) the opportunity to follow up on the story with details that might be less salacious. Our pledge to you the reader is not only to bring you the latest entertainment news – but also to tell you the entire story, and to always presume that someone is innocent until proven otherwise.
Channing Tatum Named World’s Sexiest Man! But Which Other Beefcakes Were Robbed?
Well folks, it’s that time of year again. Nope, not the bustling holiday shopping season; instead I’m referring to the always-anticipated announcement of what has become Hollywood’s version of a Prom King: People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive.
And just who is the lucky lad being crowned with the 2012 title? None other than “Magic Mike” himself, Channing Tatum!
While the winner is sure to invoke serious discussions over the dinner table for many, as to whether Tatum is deserving of the honor, it shouldn’t come as much surprise that he’d be at the top of the list this year. The title “Sexiest Man Alive” may conjure up the idea that it is solely based on candidates’ physical attributes, but it has become more and more clear the past few years that the endowment is also based on who seems to be having one of their best years career-wise.
Remember when Channing Tatum was pretty much only known as that dancing dude in the first “Step Up” movie? It’s hard to remember back to such obscurity now, considering he starred in 3 certifiable hit films this year (“The Vow,” “21 Jump Street,” and the aforementioned “Magic Mike,” based on his own life experiences). He also hosted one of the best “Saturday Night Live” episodes of the year – and according to IMDB, he has seven, yes SEVEN, films in various stages of production for 2013. With that kind of evidence it’s difficult to deny the guy is hot – both physically and career-wise as well.
The contest never seems to pass without controversy though, as last year’s winner Bradley Cooper must surely know. When news broke that he was the People choice, Ryan Gosling fans came out of the woodwork to announce the magazine’s mistake.
While I love Bradley Cooper, and believe he’s very deserving of last year’s honor, you can see the point. Last year really was the Year ‘O Gosling, with him popping up in everything from comedies (“Crazy Stupid Love”) to political dramas (“The Ides of March”), and both were very good films.
As for this year, while I agree Tatum shined in 2012, I can’t help but throw in my two cents towards Joseph Gordon-Levitt. With his star turns in “The Dark Knight Rises” and “Looper” (and a supporting role in “Lincoln” opening this weekend – how’s that for versatility?), I’m a little disappointed he didn’t claim the top spot. But as Ryan Gosling might say to console me: “Hey girl, there’s always next year.”
“Modern Family” Drama Continues As Ariel Winter Leaves Mother’s Care, Breaks Up With Older Boyfriend
It’s been a tumultuous couple of weeks for “Modern Family” star Ariel Winter, since news broke that the 14-year-old is in a relationship with 18-year-old actor Cameron Palatas, which apparently has been going on since August. In the weeks since, her mother Chrisoula Workman has made accusations that she walked in on the two together in bed – which because of their age difference, would be a crime.
Since the allegations came out that Chrisoula saw them in bed together Ariel has petitioned to have her sister Shanelle Gray, who is also an actress, become her permanent guardian. The 14-year-old star has since been removed from her mother’s care, with the sisters claiming on the petition that Chrisoula has slapped hit and pushed her daughter, as well as “vile name calling, personal insults, attempts to ‘sexualize’ minor, deprivation of food, etc. for an extended period of time.”
The mother denies everything, telling E!: “I want to say the horrible, untrue accusations are false and ridiculous,” and adding, “I have my doctor’s letter that my daughter’s never been abused…I have stylists’ letters that she’s never been abused.”
Ariel’s 33-year-old sister Shanelle says she also faced the same abuse during her teen years when she was acting – and reportedly had to be removed from her mother’s care at age 12. Whether the abuse is true or not, many people have come out to say that Ariel’s mother was a nightmare on the sets that Ariel has worked on, and went so far as to say that she would order Ariel and the directors around.
Now comes news that Ariel and Cameron have broken up, and at a recent Halloween party Ariel was hesitant when asked about the relationship. “Um, I don’t have one… Not at the moment. We’re just friends.”
So, if her mom Chrisoula was just hoping to break up the pair, it looks like she has been successful for the time being. It all remains to be seen what happens to the starlet. The Court date for her guardianship is set for November 20th.
Rihanna Gets Naked, Talks Chris Brown-Drake Love Triangle
The newest issue of GQ magazine features a cover story with Rihanna that seems sure to raise some eyebrows with its revealing nature…in more ways than one.
The Barbadian singer appears naked on the cover – which for some reason happens to be their “Men of the Year” issue, but assures us there’s also “One Hot Woman” inside the pages. Flashing a lot of flesh, Rihanna is covered only by a leather jacket draped over her shoulders and some creatively-positioned arms.
Inside the mag is a six-page photo spread that features Rihanna in lace panties, shoes and not much else. The shots give fans a good glimpse of the new goddess Isis tattoo that she has underneath her breasts, but it’s not the only revelation.
“I want to make music that’s hopeful, uplifting. Nothing corny or super sentimental,” she says in an interview with the mag. “I just want it to have the feeling that brings you out of whatever you’re going through. I want it to spark that fire. I want it to be real, authentic, and raw.”
Rihanna also addresses the brawl between Chris Brown and Drake that was reportedly over her, and talks about her turn-ons.
“I like to feel like a woman,” she says. “I have to be in control in every other aspect of my life, so I feel like in a relationship, like I wanted to be able to take a step back and have somebody else take the lead.”
But ultimately, Rihanna says, the most difficult part of her life is trying to maintain her artistic integrity. “Sometimes a person looks at me and sees dollars. They see numbers and they see a product, ” she explains. “I look at me and see art. If I didn’t like what I was doing, then I would say I was committing slavery.”
Sad Day on Sesame Street: Elmo Creator Kevin Clash Accused of Statutory Rape
It’s a sad day for folks down at everyone’s favorite address. In a bit of shocking news, according to sources at People, the creator and voice of the much-loved Sesame Street character Elmo, Kevin Clash, has taken a leave of absence from the show due to sexual abuse allegations by a 16-year-old boy.
While no official charges seem to have been filed, the incident in question has been reviewed by Sesame Workshop, the non-profit organization behind Sesame Street, which has stated that claims made by the accuser at this juncture are unsupported. Despite the lack of evidence, Workshop officials did make a statement that “Kevin exercised poor judgment and violated company policy regarding Internet usage and he was disciplined.”
In spite of this, Clash has maintained his innocence amidst the charges, calling them slander. While his now 23-year-old accuser states that the abuse began 7 years ago when Clash was 45, the now-52-year-old puppeteer and voice actor maintains that the relationship has always been a legal one between two consensual adults. In a statement to People via his rep, Clash stated “I am deeply saddened that he is trying to characterize it as something other than what it was. I am taking a break from Sesame Workshop to deal with this false and defamatory allegation.”
Clash, who was the subject of the excellent 2011 documentary “Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey,” found success with “Sesame Street” beginning in 1984 and has been an integral member of the team ever since, winning numerous Daytime Emmys for his work as Elmo, as well as serving as a co-executive producer for the series. While he made it clear he has never hid the fact that he is a gay man, he considers it “a personal and private matter.”
No word yet on the identity of Clash’s accuser, but he has apparently already hired one of the law firms involved in the Jerry Sandusky rape case.
Despite the scandal, officials at Sesame Street have assured fans that Elmo will not be removed from future broadcasts.
Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and the Rest of the Wolfpack Return in Newly-Leaked “Hangover 3” Pics!
They’re back, and they’re at it again. I’m talking about the one and only Wolfpack, the dudes that made R-rated comedies popular and, amazingly enough, good again.
In newly-released photos from director Todd Phillips’ Instagram, we are presented with the bedraggled gang relaxing behind-the-scenes in what is surely much more serenity than any of them will experience once hilarious hijinx ensue in their now-filming sequel “The Hangover 3.”
The familiar faces of Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Bradley Cooper, and Justin Bartha should come as no surprise, as well as scene stealer Ken Jeong as the group’s sometimes-enemy-sometimes-accomplice Mr. Chow. We are also given a treat of an image with John Goodman, though no word yet on what role he’ll play.
While the pictures are a great snack for “Hangover” fans salivating over sequel news, we still don’t know much about the direction the concluding chapter in the trilogy will take. Rumors have circulated that our favorite n’er-do-wells will be tasked with breaking Galifianakis out of a mental institution – which, if you’ve seen the first two movies, doesn’t sound like much of a shocker. Based on some of the other snapshots though, the jury’s out as to why the guys seem to be at a cemetery or why on earth there are 2 guys in thoroughly creepy pig-masks. Hey, it’s “The Hangover,” don’t question, just go with it.
Perhaps the most fun in the months leading up to the film’s release next May will be trying to figure out who will pop in for a surprise cameo. Heather Graham will allegedly be reprising her role from the first film as the stripper-with-a-heart-of-gold and former betrothed of Ed Helm’s character Stu. Funny lady Melissa McCarthy is also said to be taking part in the action. How epic would it be if she showed up as her “Bridesmaids” character Megan? Let the comedy battle of the sexes commence!
Also, don’t be surprised if these pics have a second life. As any good “Hangover” series fan knows, each film ends with the discovery of some revealing photos reminding them of the craziness that occurs when they imbibe too much. If tradition holds, perhaps these pics will resurface at the end of “Hangover 3” as part of the always-hilarious slideshow of shame.
Justin Timberlake, Jessica Biel Help Out Sandy Victims
Justin Timberlake and his new bride Jessica Biel know how to give back. Fresh from their honeymoon in Tanzania the newlyweds showed off their compassionate side by helping out Hurricane Sandy victims in Far Rockaway, New York.
According to E! Online the couple “handed out relief backpacks for three-and-a-half hours, staying until all the trucks were emptied.”
Jessica was dressed in dark jeans, a heavy coat and black boots and Justin was toasty in a tan beanie and navy jacket. Their new rings were of course on display. The two also snapped photos with fans.
Jessica, looking stunning as always, was spotted the day before at a business meeting in the Big Apple and taking a walk in the East Village with friends.
“Taking in the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy …my thoughts and prayers go out to everyone that was affected,” Timberlake recently tweeted. His new wife also tweeted, “Sending my prayers and love to New York City and to everyone affected by Hurricane Sandy.”
Timberlake and Biel were not the only celebrities helping out the East Coast. Singer John Legend and Timbaland also visited the area to help the victims deal with the disaster.
It’s good to see celebrities giving back. The victims of the superstorm need all the help they can get, and having stars participate in the recovery brings that much more attention to their plight. They set a good example by showing that even the most fortunate can be compassionate and help those in serious need.
If you would like to help the victims of Hurricane Sandy like Justin and Jessica, you can text REDCROSS to 90999 and make a $10 donation to Sandy relief efforts, or you can log onto http://www.redcross.org/charitable-donations and help.
Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez Split! Where Do They Go From Here?
Say it ain’t so! Cute couple Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber, otherwise known as Jelena, have broken up. What was the reason?
The official cause is different schedules, but there could be more to it. Apparently there were some major trust issues brewing beneath the surface. Selena, obviously angry, tweeted a picture of Justin with 19-year-old Victoria’s Secret model, Barbara Palvin. Barbara claims that the two are only friends, but Selena obviously didn’t believe it. So was the Biebs cheating?
Says a source, “She broke up with him about a week ago. With them being apart so much it got complicated. She had some trust issues. It’s not easy, but the relationship needed to end.”
Were there clues that the couple was in trouble? Well, according to People Magazine, Justin was late to a Fuse TV taping “because he and Selena were fighting.” And Selena was seen “crying about Justin” at Ashley Tisdale’s birthday party.
Perhaps the young couple simply grew apart. When you are that young, relationships are a learning process, and couples don’t always grow up together. Maybe they just started on different paths.
Selena was recently in attendance at one of Justin’s concerts. But obviously that was near the end of the relationship, because a week later he posted a photo of himself on Instagram with the caption, “Just me.”
He then posted a sad looking photo of himself with the missive “lingse.” Fans soon realized this meant single! The photo has since been removed.
Justin was coy when asked about the end of the relationship. “I don’t know what to say. I don’t know what’s going on in my life. To even assess that, it doesn’t make sense, ’cause I have not made any comment.”
Here’s hoping the two young people can move on with their lives and that their broken hearts heal.
Casting Call: Mark Wahlberg, Chloe Moretz, Jared Leto and More Make Hollywood Headlines
Welcome to Casting Call! We’re here to report on some of the most notable, unusual, and exciting casting news in the business. This week we have big news on Zac Efron, Lared Leto, Mark Wahlberg and more. So, let’s grab a fork and dig in:
Movies:
Move over Shia LeBeouf, because Mark Wahlberg will be taking the lead in “Transformers 4.” Michael Bay worked with Marky Mark in “Pain and Gain” (Due out April 2013) and couldn’t be more excited to work with the actor again. Bay hopes that Wahlberg will “reinvigorate” the franchise and get fans pumped about Transformers once again.
An Australian film production company called Tree is assembling a stellar female ensemble for their new movie “33 Liberty Lane.” The flick will star Emily Watson, Sandra Oh, Melora Hardin, and Nia Vardalos as four women who decide to try their hands as phone sex operators (we’re going to assume this one is set in the Nineties). To make their roles more authentic, the women enlist some help from a real-life hooker (a roles that is currently still uncast).
Chloe Moretz, Tim Robbins, and Michelle Pfieffer will play a flailing family in Robbins’ first directorial effort in more than a decade. “Man Under” will return the underrated talent behind “Bob Roberts,” “Cradle Will Rock” “Dead Man Walking” to the director’s chair, this time following the lives of a family thrust into fame after their photographs wind up in an exhibit at the Museum of Modern Arts in New York.
Clive Owen and Juliette Binoche have signed on as leads in the new romantic drama “Words and Pictures.” Owen and Binoche will play New England teachers from very different backgrounds who find each other at a prep school.
Jared Leto is joining “Dallas Buyers Club,” aka “The Movie That Has Made Matthew McConaughey Lose Way Too Much Weight.” This will be Leto’s first movie role in six years, following a self-imposed Hollywood exile while after he was focusing on his band “30 Seconds to Mars.” Leto will play a cross-dressing gay man who is a fellow AIDS patient with Matthew McConaughey. It will be interesting to see if Leto, last seen pulling an opposite-McConaughey and gaining a ton of weight for the deservedly-forgotten film “Chapter 27,” will follow his co-star’s lead and once again alter his appearance dramatically.
Anytime we have the opportunity to write the name Imogen Poots, it brings a smile to our faces. So, it is with great pleasure that we announce Poots will be playing Zac Efron’s love interest in the upcoming film “Are We Officially Dating?” The script centers on three New York bachelors who pledge to stay single, just as they all begin to fall in love. Poots will play one of the women whose affections are targeted, alongside “True Blood” star Deborah Ann Woll.
Television:
Coming off “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter,” Benjamin Walker has been cast in a new Cold War-based HBO dramatic series entitled “The Missionary,” based on a book by Malcolm Gladwell, produced by Steven Levinson and…since this is HBO, after all…Mark Wahlberg (does he own that channel by now?). Walker will play a Mormon missionary who questions his loyalty after helping a young woman escaping East Berlin. Walker beat out “Breaking Bad” star Aaron Paul for the title role – which actually seems like it would be a very difficult thing to do.
Done Losing Weight, Jennifer Hudson is Happy With Her Body
Jennifer Hudson is a great spokesperson on losing weight healthfully. And she projects a strong sense of a healthy body image to her fans. After losing more than 80 pounds on Weight Watchers (where she is also a spokesperson) Jen says she is done and is happy where she’s at.
According to US Weekly, the “Spotlight” singer says she is satisfied with her slim-down. “I’m at the weight I want to be, But I hear all the time, ‘Don’t lose any more weight, you need to stop.’ People are under the impression that I’m still losing but I’m not.”
Hudson has a son with fiance, Harvard Law graduate and WWE wrestler David Otunga. She says she doesn’t always see herself at her new size. She sometimes feels like she’s still a size 16. “I’m getting used to my new self more than anything else,” the Academy Award winner says. “I got used to being plus-sized and knowing how to be that, whereas this is like, ‘Okay, who am I?’ I keep thinking that I probably need an extra-large or a large and the stylist is like, ‘No, you need a medium or a small.'”
When she was heavier, it was difficult for her to find clothes that flattered her body. Remembering that struggle, the new fashion designer has created a line of clothes for QVC. “I know what I like, and that’s what it’s all about. It’s like, who’s your fashion icon? Me. And no one but you knows what you feel most comfortable in.”
Jennifer has empathy for her customers and she always puts herself in their place when she works with the clothes. “I look at each piece and think, ‘Could I wear that as big Jennifer or could I wear that now? I want to consider every girl.”
Hudson’s healthy view on her weight is an inspiration to her fans. She is truly a role model for young girls in that she has a healthy body, not an anorexic one…and that she knows when to say when.