ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

Selena Gomez and The Weeknd (ne Abel Tesfaye) make up Hollywood's latest hot couple, but there are definitely hurt feelings when it comes to his ex, Bella Hadid. "Bella and Abel's split wasn't dramatic, but of course she's hurt and pissed that he's moved on so quickly with Selena," says an insider, who adds that it was Hadid, 20, who ultimately pulled the plug on the duo's romance. One day after Gomez, 24, and The Weeknd, 26, were spotted kissing while on a date in L.A., Hadid unfollowed the "Same Old Love" singer on Instagram and later posted a photo of herself flipping the bird. However, multiple sources tell PEOPLE that Gomez and Hadid were never close friends and there was no betrayal involved. "They've always been friendly, but they're not best friends," says one Gomez source. Adds another Gomez pal: "Selena knows Bella through Taylor [Swift] and her squad, but they've never been close." According to the pal, Gomez and The Weeknd "met a while ago and connected over music." While the duo's fans will have to stay tuned to see if there's a musical collaboration on the way, multiple sources say their romance is just starting to heat up. "It's new and nothing serious yet," says the Gomez source. (People)

Lauren Conrad Blogs About Things You Should Avoid Saying to Pregnant Women. Lauren Conrad is hosting a lesson in pregnancy etiquette and everyone is invited. The mom-to-be took to her website to discuss a topic that has taken center stage in her life as of late -- expecting a baby. The former reality star, who is pregnant with her first child with husband William Tell, has been fielding comments since revealing her baby bump. However, according to Conrad, there are some topics that should never be broached. "I may only be in my second trimester, but I've already noticed quite a few etiquette missteps when it comes to how people behave around someone who is expecting," she began in an article shared on her website. On the off-limits list? Don't pry, don't touch, don't ask. Conrad kicked off her set of rules by advising readers not to be nosy about when a couple plans to get pregnant. "Any questioning, pressure, or even hinting about it usually just makes the couple uncomfortable," she wrote. "You also never know if someone may be privately struggling with fertility or has suffered through a recent miscarriage." She also advised not to ask when someone is due unless you're certain they're pregnant and not to make remarks about the size of her bump. "Whether a woman is bigger than average or she's not showing as much as she thought she would be, keep in mind that it can be a very sensitive subject," Conrad pointed out. Finally, she suggested taking a hands-off approach to your pregnant pals -- when you don't have permission, that is. "Even if you are a close friend or family member, it doesn't hurt to ask first before making a grab for the belly," she concluded. "No matter what your relationship to the mama-to-be is, keep in mind that it's much more pleasant to have someone politely ask if it is OK before groping your midsection." (Eonline)

Matt LeBlanc's Daughter Has Zero Interest in Friends -- Prince Harry on the Other Hand . . . Could this be any sadder? Matt LeBlac's 12-year-old daughter, Marina, has no interest in Friends -- because of him! The 49-year-old actor, who became famous for his role as Joey Tribbiani on the hit sitcom in the '90s and early '00s, revealed the news on The Ellen DeGeneres Show Wednesday. "Does she know that her dad is cool, like everybody like thinks you're cool 'cause you're a celebrity?" Ellen DeGeneres asked him. "I don't think she thinks I'm too cool," LeBlanc said. "I think her friends at school are watching Friends now, that's about the age they get into it, but she, she can't be bothered. She just couldn't care less." "But...she's seen the show?" DeGeneres asked. "Yeah, she's seen it, yeah, yeah, but it's her dad," the actor replied. "She sees me enough...she's like, 'Overdose on my dad, I don't want that.'" "I guess that would be weird to watch the show, that's your dad and then you come in the room and you're right there," DeGeneres said. LeBlanc shares Marina with ex-wife Melissa McKnight, who is also a mother to an adult son and daughter, Tyler and Jacqueline, from a previous marriage. The actor did, however, score some major points with Marina -- and Jacqueline -- a different way. He said that while they were visiting him in London, where he films BBC's Top Gear, he took them to a Bruce Springsteen concert at Wembley Arena and took them backstage, where they met the singer and Prince Harry. "So Prince Harry, at the end of the night, gives my stepdaughter and daughter a kiss on the cheek and they were both just floored," LeBlanc said. "I got no kiss myself." (Eonline)

Ed Sheeran Says He's Ready to Be a Dad and Opens Up About ''Properly'' Falling in Love: ''I've Never Been Happier." Ed Sheeran is ready for some mini versions of himself to bring into the world. The 25-year-old singer sat down with Beats 1/Apple Music's Zane Lowe and wasn't afraid to admit that he's wanted to be a dad for quite some time. So how did the topic of fatherhood come up? While discussing his drinking habits, obviously! Lowe asked about the underground tunnel that leads from the singer's house to his very own pub, and Sheeran explained the purpose was to separate his house parties from his actual home. "The problem with my house at the moment is, if I have a house party, it's all in the house, and if I have kids, I want to still have mates around and have beers," he explained. "So it's good to have them separate." Of course, this sparked the question: Is Sheeran excited to be a dad one day? "Massively," he admitted. "I wanted to be a dad, like, last year. I'm ready, let's go -- tour bus babies, little fat, chubby babies that just walk around." Sheeran -- who has been dating and living with his high school pal Cherry Seaborn for several years -- said once the kids hit the age in which they begin to attend school, he'll take a break from music and focus on fatherhood. "When they hit 4 or 5 [years old] and start primary school, I'm just out," he revealed. "I think [Bruce] Springsteen took an extended break when his kids went to school. I think that's going to be me. I think I just want to set up a little studio in the countryside -- which I have done -- and just have new artists come down, write songs with them, produce with people." As for managing parenting and the pub, Sheeran laughed, "Me and my wife will take turns getting [drunk]." Speaking of his future wife, while he didn't specifically say Seaborn is "the one," he did say he has fallen in love with her "properly" "This has been the first time I've actually had the time to fall in love properly," he explained. "So the catalyst of taking a year off was also the fact that my partner quit her job in New York -- which she's now got back in London, which is really cool -- but we were just basically like, let's quit our jobs and have a year of forming a tight bond. So we went traveling and spent every day for a year together." He continued, "I've probably had three days apart from her in the last year...but we're very, very strong. I've never been happier. I've never been more comfortable. I've never been more inspired. I feel like everything's fallen into place, and it's fallen into place because I've given it the time to fall into place." (Eonline)

Jack Nicholson to retire after 60 years in Hollywood. Hollywood superstars do not get bigger than Jack Nicholson. But after a career stretching more than 60 years featuring a record 12 Oscar nominations, the legendary actor is quitting Tinseltown. The notorious ladies' man -- -- famous for his "Here's Johnny!" line in the psycho horror flick "The Shining" -- has been enjoying a quieter life since his last significant film role in 2010's "How Do You Know." Now his long-standing friend and co-star Peter Fonda says the -former hellraiser has retired at the age of 79. Peter, who co-starred with Jack in 1969's "Easy Rider" and has stayed good friends since, said, "I think he is -- basically retired. I don't want to speak for him, but he has done a lot of work and he has done very well as a person financially." Speaking at the glitzy Bafta Tea Party event in LA, Peter added, "Sometimes -- people have a reason that you don't know, and it's not for me to ask. I don't call him up and say, 'Johnny,' I call him Johnny Hop, 'What are you doing?' I would say, 'How are you, how do you feel?'" Four years ago reports -- surfaced in the US claiming Jack was due to wind down his career as a result of memory loss -- but the -- suggestions were shot down by the star's -- representatives. He later admitted that he had decided to scale back his partying, explaining, "I'm still wild at heart but I've hit bio-gravity. I can't hit on women in public anymore. I didn't decide this. It just doesn't feel right at my age." Fonda believes the offer of a -- fantastic new role may tempt Nicholson back to a film set, but it would have to be something -- special to entice him out of -- retirement. Nicholson is the most -- nominated actor in the history of the Academy Awards, winning three gongs for his roles in "One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest," "As Good As It Gets" and "Terms Of -- Endearment." And in a 2013 interview, he admitted he now -- prefers to spend his time at home, adding, "I got tired of -- arguing with women about going to have dinners so I hired a cook. The food is better at my house. But still, a lot of times ladies want to go out, and I'm -- happier in my dinky little house." (PageSix)

Lindsay Lohan's friends tell us she hasn't converted to Islam, but is just "educating herself." "Lindsay is educating herself on different cultures and their practices to be able to better understand the people and communicate," said a pal of the actor, humanitarian and club owner. Lohan, who's recently visited refugees in Turkey and spent New Year's in Dubai, sparked speculation when she deleted all her Instagram posts and replaced her bio with an Arabic greeting. Her mom, Dina, told us: "I have raised my children to be compassionate and to educate themselves on a global level -- to learn about different cultures and their practices and to respect them!" (Page Six)

Truce? Charlie Sheen apologized to Rihanna on Tuesday, January 17, nearly a week after calling her a "bitch" during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live. The Anger Management alum, 51, took to Instagram Tuesday to post a pic of RiRi, 28, wearing a bubblegum pink wig, while sitting courtside at a basketball game. "dear @badgalriri, pardon my inane self-indulgence," Sheen captioned the Instagram snapshot. "let's have a drink someday (on me)." According to TMZ, Sheen and Rihanna's unexpected feud began in May 2014. Sheen claimed that she snubbed him and his then-fiancee, Brett Rossi, when they were all dining at the Giorgio Baldi restaurant in Santa Monica, California. "Nice impression you left behind, Bday or not. Sorry we're not KOOL enough to warrant a blessing from the Princess (or in this case the Village idiot)," Sheen tweeted at the time. The "Work" singer seemingly responded in a since-deleted tweet. "If that old queen don't get ha diapers out of a bunch... " she wrote. Sheen was asked about the fight during WWHL on January 11. "Oh, that bitch," he said in response. "No, she abandoned common courtesy and common sense." The Office's Craig Robinson, who was also a guest on the Bravo show, chimed in: "I think you just made it worse." (US Weekly)

President George H.W. Bush Hospitalized for "Shortness of Breath." Former President George H.W. Bush has been hospitalized as a precaution after experiencing "shortness of breath," his office confirmed to NBC News Wednesday. Additionally, Today reported Bush, 92, is responding well to treatment and doctors are pleased with his progress. Overnight, chief of staff Jean Becker told NBC News he is in "stable condition" and "doing fine." The Houston Chronical initially quoted Becker as saying the 41st President of the United States was expected to return home from Houston Methodist Hospital in a few days. "He's there," Becker told the newspaper Wednesday. "He's fine and he's doing really well." The politician's office later confirmed that he is "being monitored as a precaution and is resting comfortably." Bush, who served as commander-in-chief from 1989 to 1993, has a form of Parkinson's disease; he uses a motorized scooter or a wheelchair to get around. This marks the fourth time in five years that Bush -- the nation's oldest living president -- has been hospitalized. In July 2015, Bush was treated after falling at his summer home and breaking a bone in his neck. In December 2014, he was hospitalized in Houston due to "shortness of breath." And in 2012, Bush spent Christmas in intensive care for a bronchitis-related cough and other issues. The former president's public appearances have become increasingly rare as of late. Bush's most recent outing was 11 days ago, when his family attended a Houston Texans playoff game. Bush's office said earlier this month that he and his wife, Barbara Bush, 91, will not attend Donald Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20 due to their advanced ages, as well as "all that entails." Similarly, they were unable to attend President Barack Obama's inauguration in January 2013. Jenna Bush Hagar, a contributor to Today, has not commented on her grandfather's condition on-air. UPDATE: Former President George H.W. Bush's spokesman, Jim McGrath, released the following statement via Twitter midday Wednesday: "Shortly after our previous report on President Bush's condition, he was admitted to the ICU at Houston Methodist Hospital to address and acute respiratory problem stemming from pneumonia. Doctors performed a procedure to protect and clear his airway that required sedation. President Bush is stable and resting comfortably in the ICU, where he will remain for observation. Additionally, [Barbara Bush] was admitted to the Houston Methodist Hospital this morning as a precaution after experiencing fatigue and coughing. We will provide additional updates as events warrant." (Eonline)

Chrisley Knows Best Star Savannah Chrisley Suffering From Fractured Vertebrae and More Injuries After Serious Car Accident. Savannah Chrisley was involved in a frightening car accident Monday, and the reality star's father is sharing an exclusive update with E! News about how she's doing. In a statement from Todd Chrisley, he shares, "It's the worst feeling in the world to get a call late at night while sleeping to hear on the other end that your child has been involved in a serious car accident and that you need to come to the hospital immediately. That's the call we received this morning about our daughter Savannah." The Atlanta-based beauty pageant queen was driving a white, four-door vehicle through a rainstorm when she reached down to fix her floor mat. The mat became stuck under the gas pedal, and when Savannah looked up, her car veered toward the guardrail. The statement continued, "Savannah survived with a fractured vertebrae in her neck and several bruises and burns from the airbags. We have a six-week recovery period and we are all so thankful to the good Lord above for His grace and mercy." "Everyone look out for the girl wearing the helmet and riding a tricycle down the highways going forward," Chrisley concluded. Photos shared with E! News of the Chrisley Knows Best star in the hospital indicate she suffered bruises on her forehead and shoulder, and is currently wearing a neck brace. Savannah, 19, has yet to break her silence on social media about the accident, but over the weekend, shared a photo surrounded by friends and family members. Wishing Savannah a speedy recovery! (Eonline)

THE OTHER STUFF . . .

Paris Jackson Gives Old Hollywood Vibes in New Photo Shoot as She Joins the Ranks of Celebrity Kids Who Model. Michael Jackson's daughter Paris Jackson is taking the high-fashion modeling road. E! News can confirm the 18-year-old headed to Paris this week for an editorial fashion shoot, stepping into her father's footsteps by taking on the spotlight in front of the camera. She looked perfect modeling old Hollywood glam, wearing an all-white ensemble with platinum blonde locks and red lips, which we can't help but find reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe. In fact, the shoot took place at the Esplanade du Trocadero and appeared to be set with a World War II theme as she posed beside soldiers, holding up an American flag and a French flag while the men flashed peace signs. A source tells us she arrived on Tuesday ahead of the shoot, staying in a hotel right beside the Eiffel Tower where she shot a couple pictures with her boyfriend, Michael Snoddy. Later that evening, we're told she attended a meeting with Christian Dior before returning to her hotel late at night. Paris' photo shoot puts her on the long list of other celebrity kids who've taken on the camera over the years. From Sofia Richie to Lily-Rose Depp, Willow Smith to Georgia May Jagger -- not to mention, the names we forgot were originally attached to their parents, like Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid and Bella Hadid -- have taken a dive into the modeling world and, more often than not, found quite a bit of success. (Eonline)

Look away, Cheryl! Liam Payne is going on a date with another lucky lady. We might (definitely) enter this... That's right. Liam Payne is offering himself up for a date. We 're definitely considering entering this... The One Direction singer is vowing to fly the lucky winner (and a friend) out to Los Angeles, put them up in a fancy hotel and treat them to a meal at his favorite restaurant. But Liam - who is currently dating pregnant girlfriend Cheryl - isn't just dating another woman for the heck of it, it's all in the name of raising money for RED's fight for an AIDS-free generation. Revealing the news to his giddy Twitter fans in a short video, Liam said: "I'll fly you and a friend out to LA, put you up in a top hotel, and then you'll swing by the studio for a private tour. "It's a bit like stepping into my office, only better. Because afterward we'll get the chance to talk one on one about anything you like. Better yet, we'll have a chat over lunch at one of my favorite restaurants in Malibu. Trust me, you'll love it. So what are you waiting for? "It's going to be an amazing day. And not only will you have some amazing pictures to remember it by, you'll also have my sincere gratitude because every entry supports RED's fight for an AIDS-free generation," he added. Get your entries in, ladies! (British Glamour)

Kendall Jenner and A$AP Rocky Shop for Diamond Jewelry With Tyga and Kylie Jenner in New York City. Retail therapy never hurt anyone, especially if it's near New York City's diamond district. While enjoying another trip in the Big Apple Tuesday, Kendall Jenner and Kylie Jenner decided to stop by Ovadia & Sons and Rafaello & Co. for some afternoon shopping. But as it turns out, the Keeping Up With the Kardashians stars brought along a couple of close guy friends for the special trip. An eyewitness told E! News Kendall and A$AP Rocky hung out in the Rafaello & Co.'s SoHo store for about 45 minutes where they bought an assortment of jewelry and fashion items. "They were helping each other pick stuff out," our source shared with E! News. "Kendall also got fitted for a pair of gloves they're working on for her." Kendall sported a green winter coat under her black turtleneck. As for A$AP, he added some serious color to his ensemble with a purple jacket and striped T-shirt underneath. E! News also learned that Kendall was looking at some fur shoes at Ovadia & Sons while A$AP bought a few special items from the company's new collection. As for Kylie, she met up with Tyga inside the store where a few selfies were taken in the midst of shopping. It's been another jam-packed trip for many members of the famous family. Earlier this week, Kendall and her older sister Kim Kardashian stepped out in New York City where they filmed scenes for the upcoming movie Ocean's Eight. According to reports, the highly anticipated film includes a scene set at the star-studded Met Gala where the sisters attend year after year. (Eonline)

Steve Martin, Chic frontman Nile Rodgers, "Elementary" actor Aidan Quinn and David Letterman's former bandleader Paul Shaffer all hit the Cutting Room on Friday to see singer Peter Asher perform a sold-out show. But the A-list left in a hurry when the next act hit the stage. "The spot has something called 'Strip Club Karaoke,'?" a spy explained of the racy act that followed Asher, who "jokingly invited the crowd to stay for 'a sort of orgy.' It's where guests sing their favorite songs with a live band and a choice of a male or female 'professional dancer' by their side stripping." We're told the celebs all ran for the exits as the strippers made their way into the venue and onto the stage. (Page Six)

Ariana Grande sent Twitter into a tizzy when she declared herself "the hardest working 23-year-old human being on Earth." In an Instagram post on Friday, the singer captioned a snapshot, "when you're cute but you're also the hardest working 23-year-old human being on earth #cute #butalso #CEO #unf -- kwitable #haventsleptinyears." She also linked to the photo on Twitter, writing, "cute but also ceo #unf -- witable #haventsleptinyears." Not everyone was impressed with Grande's self-proclaimed work ethic. One Twitter user posted, "Yes Ariana Grande is the hardest working 23-year-old on earth not the ones struggling making 60¢ a day trying to provide for their families." "I really like Ariana but 'hardest working'? somebody who has as much time as her to post all day on her snap chat constantly says otherwise," another posted. The Instagram comments weren't much better. One user wrote, "Is that a joke? I would say a brain surgeon works harder, a soldier, a scientist... just lost all respect for her (not that I had much anyway)." Another scoffed, "You don't know the struggle for a normal human being. #learnrealwork." Though it's likely that the "Side to Side" singer was speaking in hyperbole, her diva demands, including to only be photographed from one side, don't add much to her credibility. (Page Six)

Scott Eastwood was up to no good on his day off in Australia ... and he probably didn't even know it. The actor's in Sydney shooting "Pacific Rim" ... and on his day off Tuesday he decided to hit up Wattamolla Falls at the Royal National Park. Problem is ... it's illegal to dive from that cliff. If authorities decide to go after him, Scott may have to pay a fine ... which we're guessing won't be a problem. Oops. (TMZ)

Judy Garland's childhood home on market for $550K. There's no place like Judy Garland's childhood home, which, surprisingly enough, is located in Lancaster, CA, a good hour-and-a-half drive northeast of Los Angeles. Although the Antelope Valley town is a bit remote, and not one of the Golden State's more glamorous locales, you just can't brush the stardust off the property that's currently on the market for $550,000. Garland was born Frances Ethel Gumm in 1922 in Grand Rapids, MI, and her family headed west in 1926. In search of the limelight, the budding star and father Frank, mother Ethel, and older sisters Mary Jane and Virginia settled in Southern California in the late 1920s. Her dad intended to buy a theater where his three daughters could sing and dance. After searching areas close to the bright lights of Los Angeles, including Glendale and West Hollywood, he finally found what he was looking for somewhere over the rainbow in the 500-seat Lancaster Theater. In addition to the theater, the family bought a home on Cedar Avenue, not far from their "Valley Theater," which Frank had renamed and extensively renovated. The family lived in this cottage from 1926 to about 1933, while performing at the theater and driving to Hollywood for performances, dance lessons, and auditions. When the Gumm Sisters, who later became the Garland Sisters, began booking regular vaudeville gigs in Los Angeles, the family moved closer to Hollywood. Judy Garland signed with MGM in 1935 at the age of 13. Although Garland's childhood home, built in 1915, has been expanded and remodeled, some of the original features it had when she lived there still exist. You can gaze out the same windows, brush against the same moldings, and dance across some of the same floors (many of them, however, have been resurfaced with newer wood and tile). Some of the cupboards and cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms are also original, and likely held Garland's belongings in the past. Today, the home has eight bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a basement, which is rare for a home in SoCal. There are also a couple of separate units and an office in back, for a total of 4,062 square feet of interior space. Listing agent Steven Burton of Keller Williams Antelope Valley says, "This is a great home for a large family or a board and care facility." It's also close to Downtown Lancaster's newly renovated area known as The BLVD, which features outdoor shopping, upscale dining, entertainment, and the Lancaster Performing Arts Center. What's old seems to be new again. Garland would go on to call several more luxurious residences in Los Angeles and New York home. Her final days were spent in a London townhouse, where she died in 1967. (PageSix)

Donald Trump shut down negotiations to get a huge rock band at one of his Inaugural balls ... in order to cut costs and potentially save tens of millions for charity. Inauguration sources tell us the Committee was close to landing a legendary group -- one that's in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame -- but when the President-elect found out they wanted more than $1 million for the gig he pulled the plug. We're told Trump implored the rockers to reduce their appearance fee -- but when they refused he told the Inaugural Committee to move on to other artists. Mind you, there's plenty of dough. The Committee's reportedly received more than $90 million in donations, but we're told Trump instructed all involved to keep expenses in the low millions because whatever is left over is going to charity. As we reported ... the Liberty Ball and Freedom Ball will now feature soul legend Sam Moore, as well as Grammy nominee Travis Greene. While organizers are tight-lipped about naming all the acts, our sources say you can expect an eclectic lineup -- ranging from dance to country to gospel -- and everyone's doing it for free or a greatly reduced rate. We're told planners had only 2 directives: make it diverse and do it on the cheap. (TMZ)

Mike Pence has great resolve on one thing once he becomes Veep ... exercise. We got Pence on Capitol Hill Tuesday and it seems he's not putting the bike he regularly rides into storage. It creates an interesting problem for the Secret Service if Pence ventures out into the open. President Clinton famously jogged around the Lincoln Memorial and the Potomac ... a big security challenge. We're guessing the subject of stationary bikes will come up soon. (TMZ)

The folks who donated big to Donald Trump's presidential campaign will have one simple question to answer come dinnertime -- fish or beef? Trump's hosted the Chairman's Global Dinner in D.C. Tuesday night ... where donors who spent top dollar for his campaign will get treated to an exclusive black-tie dinner, and 2 entree options: mustard glazed black cod or filet mignon. TMZ has obtained a copy of the menu, and it includes side dishes like carrot ribbon salad and champignons -- fancy for mushrooms. For dessert, they're serving Baked Alaska cakes with "fresh" raspberries. Winos have 2 reds and 2 whites from which to choose. Cheers! (TMZ)

Lin-Manuel Miranda's vowing to return to 'Hamilton' in honor of President Obama commuting the sentence of Oscar Lopez Rivera -- who was convicted for conspiracy against the U.S. government -- and some cops are outraged. Miranda said he'd be honored to play Alexander Hamilton if Rivera goes to see the play in Chicago after his release in May. Rivera has been serving a 55 year sentence since 1981 for involvement in the FALN -- a Puerto Rican liberation organization that conducted fatal bombings in NYC and an attack on NYPD headquarters. The argument for Rivera's release has been that he was never convicted of killing anyone, and only for seditious conspiracy, but a high-ranking member of NYPD tells TMZ, "It's a slap in the face of every hard working NYPD officer that the President would commute the sentence of a terrorist, and for [Miranda] to honor a terrorist is appalling." Miranda, who quit 'Hamilton' last summer, is of Puerto Rican descent and tweeted Obama to thank him for shortening Rivera's sentence before leaving the White House. (TMZ)

Lawyers are ready to represent demonstrators who get arrested for protesting Donald Trump's inauguration ... TMZ has learned. The Partnership for Civil Justice, the National Lawyers Guild, D.C. Law Students in Court and other orgs have a game plan to hit the streets Friday, monitor police conduct, and provide free representation for many demonstrators who may get cuffed and taken to jail. An official from the Partnership for Civil Justice tells TMZ, they are worried police will cross the line and arrest protesters who are exercising their Constitutional right of free speech. We're told the laws in D.C. have changed recently because of police illegally taking demonstrators into custody. Now protesters cannot be arrested for demonstrating without a permit. Cops can't encircle groups of protesters merely to prevent an uprising, and cops can't go after an entire group because a handful of demonstrators violate the law. One of the lawyers organizing the group says she thinks the D.C. cops may show more restraint now that the laws have changed, but she's worried about the 5,000 National Guard troops and 3,000 cops from various jurisdictions that might overreact. We're told dozens of D.C. area lawyers have committed free services during inauguration day. (TMZ)

Music

Carrie Underwood, John Legend and More to Perform at the 2017 Grammys. The Recording Academy is pulling out the big guns. The first wave of 2017 Grammys performers were announced Wednesday. John Legend, a 10-time winner, Metallica, eight-time winners, Carrie Underwood, a seven-time winner, and Keith Urban, a four-time winner, will hit the stage at the Staples Center in L.A. on Feb. 12, live on CBS. The country stars are slated to sing together. Underwood is nominated for Best Country Solo Performance ("Church Bells"), where she will compete against Brandy Clark ("Love Can Go to Hell"), Miranda Lambert ("Vice"), Maren Morris ("My Church") and Urban ("Blue Ain't Your Color"). Urban also received a Best Country Album nomination for Ripcord; the singer-songwriter is up against Clark (Big Day in a Small Town), Loretta Lynn (Full Circle), Morris (Hero) and Sturgill Simpson (A Sailor's Guide to Earth). Metallica's James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich are in the running for Best Rock Song ("Hardwired"). "The Grammys -- any kind of stage like that, where it's a multi-genre award show, you just want to bring your best," Underwood told Tamron Hall, Nick Offerman and Al Roker on NBC's Today Wednesday. "We are representing country music, the ones of us who are going to be there, and I feel like I just want to do a good job. I want my genre and my fans -- I want them to be proud." Additional performers will be announced at a later date. James Corden will host Music's Biggest Night for the first time, starting at 8 p.m. ET on CBS. Meghan Trainor announced several of the 59th Annual Grammy Award nominees during a press conference on Dec. 6, 2016; the rest were revealed on the organization's official website. Beyonce leads with nine nominations, followed by Drake, Rihanna and Kanye West with eight. (Eonline)

Get Your First Behind the Scenes Look at Lady Gaga's Super Bowl Halftime Show. Lady Gaga won't hold anything back during her 2017 Super Bowl halftime performance. Music fans were treated to the first behind the scenes look at the pop sensation's rehearsal on Tuesday, and from the looks of what's to come, Gaga won't disappoint. In fact, this performance is one nearly three decades in the making, as Gaga explains it's always been her dream to book the annual spectacle. "I've been planning this since I was 4, so I know exactly what I'm going to do," she admits in the clip. Gaga continues, "For me, it's all about giving to the fans and bringing people together that wouldn't normally come together. The thing is, it's such a big world stage in terms of how many people see it and it's been done so many times." On her approach to standing out from past artists, she adds, "I think the challenge is to look at it and say, 'What can I do differently? How can I elevate certain little things here and there, and also make it about the music?' This is where I'm supposed to be." As for Gaga's set list for the 12-minute performance, she kept most details pretty hush-hush. Choreographer Richy Jackson did tease a possible "Bad Romance" feature, as Gaga's many backup dancers are seen breaking out into the song's signature dance moves. The singer announced in September she would perform at the Super Bowl 2017 halftime show, saying, "It's not an illusion. The rumors are true. This year the SUPER BOWL goes GAGA." Since then, it's been nothing but work, work, work for the 30-year-old. Gaga recently shared on Instagram that she even built a tent with a dance floor in her backyard for maximum practice possibility. (Eonline)

Tony Orlando to Perform at Trump Inaugural Ball. Tony Orlando has joined the list of entertainers performing at galas around Washington the night of Donald Trump's inauguration. Orlando is best known for the 1973 No. 1 hit "Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree." He is set to perform at Friday night's Salute to Our Armed Services Ball. That ball is free by invitation only for members and veterans of the armed services and their families. It will be at the National Building Museum. Two other events, called Liberty and Freedom: The Official Presidential Inaugural Balls, will be Friday at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. A limited number of $50-per-person tickets are available to the general public. (Billboard)

Fiona Apple Debuts Anti-Trump Song 'Tiny Hands' in Honor of Women's March. Fiona Apple has made her feelings about president-elect Donald Trump very clear, again, releasing the scathing minute-long "Tiny Hands" in advance of this weekend's Women's March protests in Washington and around the nation. The song, composed with Michael Whalen, features the chant "we don't want your tiny hands anywhere near our underpants" over programmed, martial drums. The tracks is a sequel of sorts to Apple's holiday tune "Trump's Nuts Roasting on an Open Fire," which also took swings at the New York billionaire who will be inaugurated on Friday (Jan. 20). "This is the chant that Fiona Apple created for the 'Women's March' in Washington, DC January 21st. She recorded it on a phone. m-Dub created the track and the mix," reads the Soundcloud page for the track, which opens with the former Celebrity Apprentice host's famously profane Access Hollywood brag about grabbing women's private parts without permission. Apple -- who hasn't released a new album since 2012's The Idler Wheel... has been back in the public eye lately courtesy of her vehement anti-Trump stance, performing "Trump's Nuts" live at the "We Rock with Standing Rock" benefit concert in Los Angeles in December. Officials in the nation's capital are expecting more than 200,000 women to show up for the Women's March on Saturday (Jan. 21), with more than 600 sister marches planned around the nation and the world in Albania, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Iraq, Kenya, New Zealand, South Africa and Sweden, among other nations. Apple's song is the latest in a raft of anti-Trump tunes that released over the past few weeks, including protest anthems from Anohni and CocoRosie and a series entitled "Our First 100 Days," featuring songs from The Mountain Goats, How to Dress Well, Mitski, Bully, PWR BTTM, Will Oldham, Minus the Bear, Toro Y Moi and others that feature songs supporting causes that could be threatened by a Trump administration. Beginning at noon on Friday the songs will be available for unlimited streaming and download for a minimum contribution of $30. (Billboard)

Ed Sheeran Would Have Released 'Divide' in November if it Wasn't For Donald Trump. Thanks Trump. Turns out Sheerios could have gotten Ed Sheeran's Divide, more than five months earlier if it wasn't for president-elect Donald Trump. The singer appeared on Zane Lowe's Apple Beats 1 radio show on Tuesday (Jan. 17) and revealed that the original timetable had his third album dropping in November, but he delayed it because of the "s--t storm" caused by the former reality TV host's election. "The plan was to come in September and then the album was meant to come in November, but the week the album was coming out was the week the presidential elections - that was just a s--t storm of media and I was like obviously if I come out with a record then no one's gonna care," he said. "And then the week after Bruno [Mars] came out, the week after The Weeknd came out and I was like..." In what he said is one of the only lengthy sit-down interviews he's planning to do in connection with the album, Sheeran explained that waiting until March 3 to drop the 12-song effort seems like way better timing. "It feels like a clean start this year not like any time I've come out there's always been another person," he said, revealing a bit of a competitive streak. "Like remember the first year I came out, being nominated for every award but then Adele was nominated for every award, and I'd kinda turn up like, 'uh yeah.' But this year it kinda feels like there's no one there ... I'm very, very confident in this year. This year is mine!" (Sheeran talks album release around the 15:35 mark.) Sheeran, 25 -- who just scored his first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 as a performer with the single "Shape of You" (while making history as "Castle on the Hill" debuted simultaneously in the top 10 at No. 6) -- admitted to putting pressure on himself to come out on top. "I'm never going to hide the fact that I'm a very competitive person and I do want this to be the biggest album in the world," he said. "But this is where my career really begins - the rest has been a set up to this point." (Billboard)

Skrillex Jams with Justin Bieber, Chance the Rapper in Jetsetting New Video. Skrillex performs during day 2 of the 2016 Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival Weekend 1 at the Empire Polo Club on April 16, 2016 in Indio, Calif. Stadium gigs, private jets, cute girls, fancy hotels, exotic beaches. Skrillex is living it large right now, and the proof is all laid out in a stunning new video, "The Same Place." Director Jas David captures the thrills as Sonny Moore hits the road for a ride full of experiences few get to taste. The EDM rockstar hangs with Flavor Flav and Rick Ross, jams with Justin Bieber, MØ, Chance the Rapper, and cuts loose on an electric guitar somewhere in Brazil (presumably a warmup up for his reunion with From First to Last, his former band which dropped a new single "Make War" on Sunday night). Skrillex' jet-setting journey look like fun. He tells us he's having fun. Who's going to argue with that? (Billboard)

'American Idol' Alum Phillip Phillips Honors NYPD Officer with Touching Performance. American Idol Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips paid his respects to New York Police Department Det. Steven McDonald this weekend by performing his song "Home" at the fallen officer's wake. Phillips was moved when he learned that his coronation song was McDonald's favorite song, reports the New York Post. "Without hesitating Phil came," McDonald's son, Conor, told mourners. McDonald, who died at the age of 59, was injured in the line of duty by a teen gunman in Central Park thirty years ago, leaving him paralyzed from the neck down. Phillips' song got him through his final days, explains Conor, who is also an officer. "One thing I knew when he was lying there in bed, was definitely to pray, cause he would want us to pray," he said in his eulogy. "But I also put the phone next to his ear and would start playing, 'Home.' I mean, we played that almost every hour from Friday until Tuesday morning, when Dad passed on." The Leesburg, Georgia native then played a reverential version of the song acoustically, saying he was "a man of few words." He concluded with a touching version of "Amazing Grace." This isn't the first time Phillips was touched by a fan. In 2014, the big hearted Idol star took to Twitter to offer his condolences to the family of slain teen Maren Sanchez, who performed his song at a high school talent show in Milford. (Billboard)

Prophets of Rage Announce 'Anti-Inaugural Ball' With Audioslave, Vic Mensa, Jackson Browne, Jack Black & More. The event in protest of Donald Trump's presidential inauguration will mark the first Audioslave reunion in 11 years. Prophets of Rage will host the Anti Inaugural Ball on Friday in protest of Donald Trump's presidential inauguration with guest performances from Chris Cornell, Vic Mensa, Jackson Browne and more. Jack Black and the Los Angeles Freedom Choir will also join the event to be held at the Teragram Ballroom in Los Angeles. The full show will be live-streamed on Prophets of Rage's Facebook page. Prophets of Rage is former Rage Against the Machine members Tom Morello, Tim Commerford, Brad Wilk, Public Enemy's Chuck D and DJ Lord and B-Real of Cypress Hill. With Cornell joining the group, this will be the first Audioslave performance in 11 years, reuniting with former bandmates Morello, Commerford and Wilk. "The Anti-Inaugural Ball is a celebration of resistance. Resistance to racism. Resistance to sexism. Resistance to homophobia. Resistance to bullying. Resistance to environmental devastation. Resistance to fascism. Resistance to Donald Trump," said Morello in a statement. "We are staring down the barrel of a dystopian nightmare unless we act now, unless we fight back now. We intend to create 'No Trump Zones' across the country; in our homes, our schools, our places of work, and our concert stages. Bad Presidents make for great music. Join us as we get loud and stand together to defend our rights, our country, and our planet." Last year, Prophets of Rage brought dissidence across the country with the Make America Rage tour, which kicked off at the Republican National Convention. This also marks the 20-year anniversary of Rage Against the Machine's Radio Free Los Angeles protest concert coinciding with Bill Clinton's presidential inauguration. Tickets for the Anti-Inaugural Ball went on sale at 5 p.m. on Tuesday (Jan. 17) and are now sold out. A portion of the proceeds will benefit RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). (Billboard)

Is Nicole Scherzinger Replacing Fergie In Black Eyed Peas?? We have to say... this is an EXTREMELY interesting idea! According to a Brazilian website, a "reliable" source claims Nicole Scherzinger is replacing Fergie in Black Eyed Peas! Where's the evidence?? The blog says Josh Duhamel's wife is too busy with her album Double Dutchess to focus on anything with her old band. Although the LP was expected to drop in January, it now seems unlikely. While the former Pussycat Dolls front woman has released singles, many of her albums have been scrapped, and she hasn't seen much success on her own. Last year, will.i.am told Roman Kemp on Capital's Evening Show that the band will indeed get back together. He said: "There will be a Black Eyed Peas reunion... It just, it breaks my heart that I even have to say that because really we should just... we should just always have been doing Black Eyed Peas actually." (Perez Hilton)

The NFL tells TMZ Sports ... Lady Gaga has NOT been instructed to keep her mouth shut about politics and Donald Trump during the Super Bowl halftime show ... despite reports to the contrary. A report surfaced earlier Tuesday that Gaga -- who's famously outspoken about social issues and politics (and is anti-Trump) -- was specifically told to keep politics out of her performance. But an NFL spokesperson is calling B.S. -- telling us, "This is unsourced nonsense from people trying to stir up controversy where there is none." "The Super Bowl is a time when people really come together. Lady Gaga is focused on putting together an amazing show for fans and we love working with her on it; we aren't going to be distracted by this." (TMZ)

Movies

These Pixar Easter Eggs Link Every Movie From Toy Story to Finding Dory. As if Pixar fans needed another reason to re-watch their favorite films! The team at Oh My Disney recently compiled a video guide that links Easter eggs from 1995's Toy Story through 2016's Finding Dory. Some secrets were uncovered long ago, like Boo giving Sully a plush version of Nemo in Monsters, Inc., while other teases might surprise even the biggest movie buffs. The supercut was shared via Toy Story's Facebook page over the weekend. For example, who knew that tween Riley Andersen from Inside Out makes a cameo in Finding Dory? Or that Forrest Woodbush from The Good Dinosaur makes an appearance in Inside Out. Pixar has long used its films to tease future projects. Considering that information, perhaps it's time to re-watch Finding Dory to spot a Coco reference before it hits theaters on Nov. 22. Watch the Facebook video to mine gems from 2016's Finding Dory, 2015's Inside Out, 2014's The Good Dinosaur, 2013's Monster's University, 2012's Brave, 2011's Cars 2, 2010's Toy Story 3, 2009's Up, 2008's WALL-E, 2007's Ratatouille, 2006's Cars, 2004's The Incredibles, 2003's Finding Nemo, 1999's Toy Story 2, 1998's A Bug's Life and 1995's Toy Story. The teasers are leading up to a bigger event. "The champion of all Pixar films for Easter eggs, I promise you, is going to be Toy Story 4. We're pulling out the stops to put stuff from all of our films into that," chief creative officer John Lasseter teased Fusion in 2015. "It's going to be fun." Toy Story 4 is set to be released on June 21, 2019. (Eonline)

Matthew McConaughey Says "Alright, Alright" to On-Screen Body Transformations, But What About Butt Doubles? Regardless of the transformation, Matthew McConaughey can't help but look alright, alright. While taking on the role of gold prospector Kenny Wells in the upcoming movie Gold, the Oscar winner added on 47 pounds to his typically athletic frame. But during shooting, some crazy rumors just happened to pop up about his appearance. So what's all right and what's all wrong? Let Matthew explain himself. Before the film hits theaters everywhere January 27, E! News sat down with the actor who admitted a fat suit was a possibility for the role. "I had been putting on some weight but we had a fat suit and over the weeks of trying to figure out the fat suit to make it work, I really started to put on the weight," he shared with us. "So we were like, let's ditch the fat suit and go with what the God gave us." As for that nude scene where moviegoers get to see Matthew's backside, what's the truth behind speculation of a butt double? It's all wrong. "Oh that's my butt alright, alright," he shared. "That's my large walrus ass." Earlier on in our interview, Matthew admitted that packing on the pounds for a movie role wasn't as difficult as some may thing. Perhaps it helps if you love your cheeseburgers. "My favorite food is cheeseburgers, so I was eating cheeseburgers all the time. I was making cheeseburgers. I was trying out all these fast food restaurants that I've never had, or I've only had one time," he explained. "Not that much sweets. Cheeseburgers and beer will do the trick." As for that shorter hairstyle, some admirers may be wondering what Matthew's wife Camila Alves thinks of the look. (Eonline)

Julia Roberts is looking very blue these days. The Oscar winner has joined the cast of the upcoming animated comedy Smurfs: The Lost Village, PEOPLE can exclusively reveal -- as the wise new character SmurfWillow. "Smurfs are such a fun part of our animated culture," Roberts tells PEOPLE. "They were popular when I was a child and they were popular when my kids were little. It's fun to be part of such a sweet group that continues to entertain young people." The film, from Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation, already boasts a superstar vocal cast -- including Demi Lovato as Smurfette, Mandy Patinkin as Papa Smurf, and Rainn Wilson as the evil wizard Gargamel. True Blood's Joe Manganiello, 30 Rock's Jack McBrayer and Community's Danny Pudi are on board, too -- as Hefty Smurf, Brainy Smurf and Clumsy Smurf, respectively. The story follows the Smurfs as they race Gargamel to find the mysterious Lost Village and uncover the biggest secret in Smurf history. Using a mysterious map as guidance, the adorable blue friends embark on a roller-coaster journey through the Forbidden Forest -- filled with action, danger and more than a few laughs. Smurfs: The Lost Village will also mark a return to animated films for Roberts, who previously voiced characters in the 2006 family films The Ant Bully and Charlotte's Web. "I am thrilled with Julia Roberts' performance in Smurfs: The Lost Village," director Kelly Asbury (Shrek 2) tells PEOPLE. "Julia brings to the role a sense of honesty and depth, thus helping to create truth to the reality of the entire story." She adds, "It was a blast working with Julia -- whose real-life generous, good-natured spirit translates beautifully in giving voice to this new, mysterious character." Smurfs: The Lost Village arrives in theaters April 7. (Page Six)

Kim Kardashian's 'Ocean's Eight' cameo involves a jewelry heist. Kim Kardashian finally came out of hiding after her terrifying jewelry robbery in Paris -- ironically to film a scene involving a jewelry heist in the upcoming star-studded movie "Ocean's Eight." The film's been shooting at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for days, with a spate of star cameos to re-create the Met Gala for a dramatic heist scene. Kardashian was seen headed to the set with Kendall Jenner on Monday. Sources tell Page Six the Met Gala scene involves the theft of a high-end necklace in a museum bathroom. Sources confirmed Kim is in the film, although it's not clear if she's a victim or a famous face in the crowd. The movie's main cast includes Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Rihanna, Anne Hathaway, Sarah Paulson and Mindy Kaling. Kardashian has described how she feared she would be shot during last October's robbery in Paris, during which thieves tied her up and threw her into a bathtub, then took over $10 million in jewelry. The ordeal left her so traumatized, she disappeared from social media for three months and canceled a series of personal appearances. She even gave up wearing jewelry. But, on Monday, in one of her first public appearances since the robbery, Kim was back in a gown to film the scene in which the all-female cast pulls off an audacious jewelry raid. An insider mused, "We were surprised Kim showed up for filming. She had seemed totally traumatized by her Paris robbery. But then she'll still appear in a movie that glamorizes a jewelry heist." Kim's rep confirmed she has a cameo in the movie but declined to comment further. We hear further cameos were being made in the movie's Met Gala scene on Tuesday by Zayn Malik, Hailey Baldwin, Matt Harvey, Maria Sharapova, Olivia Munn, Tyga, the Winklevoss twins, and designers Tommy and Dee Hilfiger, Dennis Basso and Jason Wu. High-end jeweler Cartier is on-set dressing VIPs. The film also includes a cameo by Anna Wintour. (PageSix)

Forest Whitaker Talks U.S. Under Trump, Race Relations, Hollywood in Davos. "We have to come to the table and find some common ground," he tells the World Economic Forum. "Right now we're polarized. Forest Whitaker on Wednesday spoke out about the U.S. under incoming president Donald Trump, race relations, his choice of film roles and Hollywood's inclusiveness during an on-stage interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The actor and Oscar winner for his role in The Last Kind of Scotland earlier in the week received the Crystal Award in Davos for his leadership in peace building and conflict resolution via his non-profit Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative, which helps communities affected by violence, and via his role as a UNESCO Special Envoy for Peace and Reconciliation. The World Economic Forum posted a summary of his comments on its site after the appearance. It highlighted that he said that the U.S. was currently split, but he was hopeful that Trump would work to be a president for the whole country. "We have to come to the table and find some common ground," Whitaker said, according to the summary. "Right now we're polarized. There's a lot of people that are doubting that we're going to move forward in a positive way, but we have to try." He added: "And if it doesn't happen, the people themselves have to stand up and speak - protest, movements, marches, however, to make their voices be heard." Discussing race relations in the U.S., Whitaker highlighted that black teenagers are 20 times more likely to be killed. "We have things we need to be working on," he said, but highlighted that progress was made under President Barack Obama. "To try and act like we haven't had great progress is not true," he said. "Obama didn't fail, he changed the psyche of the nation and in some ways the world." What about Hollywood's diversity issues? Whitaker said that Hollywood studios still often assume that to make money, films need to feature a white protagonist. "I think that certainly there are disparities where artists are not being recognized for their work at times, and it's still being worked on," he said about the awards season presence of minorities. "The Academy is trying to be more inclusive." Whitaker also shared with the Davos crowd that he never plays the same role twice. "Each character is a chance to understand a different part of humanity, I'm trying to deepen who I am as a person and as an artist," he explained. Among the other entertainers attending the World Economic Forum are Matt Damon, who on Tuesday discussed his efforts to fight the water crisis, and Shakira, who spoke at the Forum on Tuesday after also receiving the Crystal Award during the opening event on Monday evening. (Hollywood Reporter)

Poland To Introduce 25 Percent Cash Rebates For Film Production. The new $23 million annual incentive will bring the country into line with most other Eastern European territories. The Polish government is planning to introduce a 25 percent cash rebate for film production worth a total of around $23 million annually. The fiscal incentive for producers, designed to boost domestic production and help attract foreign projects with Polish partners, will bring Poland into line with other European territories, most of which offer tax incentives for filmmakers. The scheme, due to be introduced later this year subject to parliamentary approval, has been prepared by Poland's Ministry of Culture and National Heritage and is currently undergoing inter-ministerial and industry consultations, Film Commission Poland says. The aim of the incentive scheme "is to stimulate the Polish film industry, strengthen the local production sector and attract valuable foreign productions," the Film Commission said in a statement. Key features of the scheme include an annual budget of around $23.5 million (€22 million) to fund tax refunds of 25 percent on qualifying Polish production costs (including crew, goods and services purchased in Poland); and a "European Union-style cultural test, important in the case of location-based international productions." Feature films (both live-action and animated), documentaries and "high-end television dramas" will be eligible to apply for the rebates that will apply to domestic films, co-productions and service providers. International productions will need to partner with a Polish producer to benefit from the scheme, which will operate on a rolling system with no set deadlines for applications. "Bigger international productions" will be required to "provide training places and production data in order to access the scheme," the Film Commission says. (Hollywood Reporter)

Berlin: Forum Line-Up Unveiled. 'Golden Exits,' starring Emily Browning, Yiddish-language drama 'Menashe' and the experimental 'El mar la mar' are among the highlights of Berlin's arthouse sidebar. Berlin is keeping it alternative and obscure for the 2017 edition of the Forum, its festival sidebar featuring experimental art house films. The 43 titles screening in this year's Forum line-up, announced Wednesday, come from more than 30 nations, and feature works stretching from traditional drama to experimental video and long-term documentary. Alex Ross Perry's Sundance entry Golden Exits, which stars Emily Browning, Analeigh Tipton, Chloe Sevigny and Mary-Louise Parker, will head to Berlin's Forum after its Park City debut. The drama is the story of a young Australian woman (Browning) who comes to New York and unwittingly disrupts the lives of two couples. Also making the Sundance-to-Forum trip are Joshua Z Weinstein's feature debut Menashe, a drama set among the Hasidic Jewish community of Borough Park, Brooklyn and shot almost entirely in Yiddish; and Amman Abbasi's Dayveon, the story of a 13-year-old boy who, following the death of his brother, falls in with a local gang. Another doc that made the Forum cut this year is For Ahkeem, from directors Jeremy Levine and Landon Van Soest. Shot in Missouri, the long-term documentary focuses on Daje, a troubled teen who lives with her single mother in St. Louis. Other non-fiction entries this year include two from German director Heinz Emigholz: Bickels [Socialism] a portrait of Israeli architect and kibbutz designer Samuel Bickels, and 2+2=22 [The Alphabet], which documents a recording session by electronic music group Kreilder in Tbilisi, Georgia. Some of the more experimental works in the 2017 Forum line-up are The Theatre of Disappearance from sculptor and installation artist Adrian Villar Rojas, described as a "hypnotic triptych depicting latent states of war;" Verena Paravel and Lucien Castaing-Taylor's somniloquies, which works with the dream diatribes of American songwriter Dion McGregor; and in El mar la mar, in which directors J.P. Sniadecki and Joshua Bonnetta take an impressionistic approach to dissect the landscape of the Sonoran Desert, part of which spans the U.S.-Mexico border. The 67th Berlin Film Festival runs Feb.9-19. (Hollywood Reporter)

Roman Polanski to Serve as President of France's Cesar Awards. The director will preside over the ceremony on February 24. Roman Polanski will serve as president of this year's Cesar Awards ceremony, the French Academy announced Wednesday. Academy president Alain Terzian called the director "an insatiable aesthetic," in the announcement citing his works Rosemary's Baby and Chinatown as "masterpieces." Polanski is well beloved by the French Academy. He won the best director Cesar for Tess in 1980, The Pianist in 2002, The Ghost Writer in 2011 and Venus in Fur in 2014, and has collected a handful of best writing wins and other nominations through the years. As president of the ceremony, Polanski will open the awards with a speech before handing over the reigns to an as-yet-unnamed host for the skits and prizes. "Artist, filmmaker, producer, screenwriter, actor, director - there are many words to define Roman Polanski, but only one to express our admiration and enchantment: Thank you, Mr. President," Terzian added. Polanski follows Claude Lellouch, who served as president last year. The director, who has been wanted in the U.S. since he fled the country following a conviction of child rape in 1978, lives in France as it has no extradition treaty with the U.S. Poland joined the list of countries he can freely travel to in December, 2016, after the supreme court there ruled from the country of his birth where he keeps an apartment. He holds dual citizenship in both countries. Polanski is currently at work on Based on a True Story, co-written by Olivier Assays and starring Eva Green, Emmanuelle Seigner and Vincent Perez. The Cesar Awards will be held Feb. 24. (Hollywood Reporter)

China's Huahua Media, Shanghai Film Group Take Stakes in Vin Diesel's 'xXx' Sequel. The film co-stars greater China's Donnie Yen and Kris Wu. Chinese companies Huahua Media and Shanghai Film Group have taken stakes in Vin Diesel's xXx: Return of Xander Cage from Paramount and Revolution Studios. The two companies made the investment via a joint venture. They did not disclose the size of their stake, but said they will also assist as China marketing partners for the movie. The third entry in the xXx extreme sports/spy action franchise, xXx: Return of Xander Cage will open in China on Feb. 10, right after the Chinese New Year holiday period, when international titles are blocked from the market to give local blockbusters an uncontested run at cinemas. Vin Diesel returns as extreme sports star turned government operative Xander Cage. The film's international prospects are boosted by co-stars Donnie Yen and Kris Wu of Greater China. India's Deepika Padukone. Ruby Rose and Nina Dobrev also feature. Huahau was one of Paramount's China marketing partners on Michael Bay's Transformers: Age of Extinction, which earned $320 million in the country. Huahua has since partnered on several other Paramount titles in China, including Star Trek Beyond and the forthcoming Transformers: The Last Knight. Shanghai Film Group and Huahua also took stakes in Paramount's Jack Reacher: Never Go Back for its Chinese release. Said Megan Colligan, Paramount Pictures' president of worldwide distribution and marketing: "We are pleased to collaborate once again with Huahua Media and the Shanghai Film Group.xXx: Return of Xander Cage is a film that delivers incredible action and great entertainment and we anticipate a strong showing for the film in China, where our stars Vin Diesel, Donnie Yen, Kris Wu and Nina Dobrev have such dedicated fan bases." "Huahua's co-investment in xXx: Return of Xander Cage marks the second time our company has had the opportunity to partner with Shanghai Film Group as a financier and marketing provider for a Paramount title," said Huahua CEO Kefei Wang. "We are poised to launch a multi-market campaign to drive a lucrative opening for the popular film series in China." (Hollywood Reporter)

TV

Will & Grace Officially Returning to NBC with 10 New Episodes. Will & Grace is officially coming back. NBC announced the Debra Messing and Eric McCormack series will return with new episodes at the 2017 TCA Winter Press Tour. And don't fret, Jack and Karen -- Sean Hayes and Megan Mullally are back too. The cast reunited for a 2016 presidential election PSA, which sparked discussion at NBC between all parties. "We're thrilled that one of the smartest, funniest, and most defining comedies in NBC history is coming back," NBC's Robert Greenblatt said in a statement. "This groundbreaking series for everything from gay rights to social and political commentary -- all disguised as a high-speed train of witty pop culture -- is coming back where it belongs." The 10-episode season will air during the 2017-2018 season. Original executive producers Max Mutchnick and David Kohan will act as showrunners and executive producers of the revival and director James Burrows, who directed every episode of the show for its first eight-year run, is on board to direct and executive produce the revival. "Dave and I are absolutely thrilled about the opportunity to write what Will, Grace, Jack and Karen are thinking about in 2017," Mutchnick said in a statement. The show, which originally premiered in 2008, was nominated for 83 Emmys and went on to win 16 of them, including Outstanding Comedy Series. In the election video, which reunited all the parties involved in the 10 new episodes, the characters dealt with the politics of candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. "We started talking with Mutchnick and Kohan about producing new episodes right after they shot the secret reunion show back in September, and the fact that all four of the original stars were excited about getting back into production is a testament to the joyful experience they had doing nearly 200 episodes for eight seasons," Jennifer Salke, president of NBC Entertainment, said in a statement. Few things cut through the clutter these days, especially in comedy, and Will and Grace is one of the best." No official premiere date or production timeline has been announced. (Eonline)

Priyanka Chopra Returns to Work After Sustaining Injury on Set of Quantico. Priyanka Chopra was hospitalized Thursday night after sustaining an injury on the set of Quantico, E! News confirms. Chopra has since been released, and a spokesperson for ABC tells E! News that it was a "minor incident." The 34-year-old actress was examined by a doctor and subsequently released, so she is now home "resting comfortably." A rep for Chopra also tells E! News that she will return to work "after the weekend." The Baywatch star has spoken of the importance of staying healthy and fit, but maintained that she never wanted to overexert herself. In an interview with Women's Health, Chopra said she does a lot of her own stunts, which is why she puts an emphasis on staying active. "I have to stay super active and agile because I do my own stunts," she revealed to the magazine. "I do all my fights myself. I trust my body and my instincts." She continued, "People always say you should listen to your body. But I don't listen to my body," she said. "My body listens to me. I can't afford to be sick or low on energy. It's mind over matter. I'm going to have a good day, and not in that fake 'Happy girls are the best girls way!' way. Identify the weaknesses, shut them in a box, find your strengths, and run with them." Now that she has suffered an injury, we hope she takes the proper amount of time to relax and heal! Get better soon, Priyanka! UPDATE: Priyanka Chopra is getting back to normal following her hospitalization. "Priyanka returned to work on Monday morning," her rep shared with E! News. "While she is still sore and stiff from her fall, she is getting stronger every day and is happy to be back at work." (Eonline)

Teen Wolf Finally Reveals Stiles' First Name and It's Definitely Unexpected. Mischief managed. Teen Wolf finally solved one of its biggest mysteries in the Jan. 17 episode, finally revealing Stiles' (Dylan O'Brien) real first name, and it's safe to say it was definitely unexpected. Warning, spoilers ahead! In Tuesday night's episode, Sheriff Stilinski FINALLY remembered he has a son, revealing that son's name in the process: "I have a son. His name is Mieczyslaw Stilinski." That's right, Stiles' real name is Mieczyslaw. Unusual? Yes. Unexpected? For sure. So where did the inspiration for the huge reveal come from? "I was looking for a Polish name that was incredibly difficult to both spell and pronounce. Mieczyslaw sounded like 'mischief,'" showrunner Jeff Davis explained to Entertainment Weekly. "It seemed like a perfect word to describe Stiles. Both as a mischievous child and equally misbehaved adult." In the episode, Sheriff Stilinski went on to reveal that Stiles' used to mispronounce his own name as "mischief," which became his nickname for a bit. All together now: Awww! Per our very brief Google search adventure, Mieczyslaw has two parts that derive from the Slavic terms for "sword" and "glory." Hm...could that be a clue heading into Teen Wolf's final run of episodes? Teen Wolf airs Tuesdays at 9 p.m. on MTV. (Eonline)

New TV Series About Selena Quintanilla's Life in the Works. María Celeste Arrarás spent many years investigating the death of singer Selena Quintanilla. After years of interviews with people closely involved in the star's life, the Emmy award-winning journalist published El Secreto de Selena. Disney Media Distribution Latin America, BTF Media, Moconoco y Latin WE announced Jan. 16 that they are producing a TV series based on this best-selling book. "El Secreto de Selena is the revealing story behind her tragic death. It is a story very different from the official version that was told immediately after his murder. It turns out that in the months before her death, Selena was not as happy as many thought. She was living through a tumultuous moment in her life; she was surrounded by people that loved her but also wanted to manipulate her. She felt that she was being pulled in different directions and she was torn. Selena was about to take various decisions in her life that were going to change her personal and professional life forever," Arrarás said. The journalist and author said that for many years she's wanted to bring this story to life, but she hadn't found the right team for it. "This real story of our beloved Selena has all of the ingredients of a telenovela: lies, love, betrayal, suspense and a lot more. It is a controversial story, but it is also a real story that is handled with the utmost respect for her memory. I have no doubt that just as the book became a bestseller, the production of this series will break audience records," Arrarás explained when asked about the series. Luis Balaguer said that they are proud of the project, as the story comes from a journalist with the credibility and trajectory of María Celeste. (Eonline)

Jessica Biel Anthology 'The Sinner' Picked Up to Series at USA Network. Bill Pullman co-stars in the anthology from Universal Cable Productions and Biel's Iron Ocean Films banner. It's official: Jessica Biel is returning to television. USA Network on Tuesday handed out a series order to drama The Sinner, starring and executive produced by Biel and her Iron Ocean Films banner. Included in USA's announcement was news that the drama will be an anthology, with each season closed-ended. Based on Petra Hammesfahr's best-selling book, The Sinner centers on a young mother (Biel) who is overcome by a fit of rage and commits a public act of violence. The incident launches a surprising crime thriller whose driving force is not the who or the what -- but the why. A rogue investigator (Bill Pullman) finds himself obsessed with uncovering the woman's motive, and together they travel a path into her psyche and the secrets hidden in her past. Derek Simonds (ABC's When We Rise) penned the pilot, which was directed by Antonio Campos (Simon Killer). They executive produce alongside Biel and her Universal Cable Productions-based Iron Films banner partner Michelle Purple. Charlie Gogolak also exec produces. "We are pleased to announce The Sinner as our first series pickup of 2017," USA Network president Chris McCumber said in a statement. "The series' unique perspective intrigued us from the very beginning, and Universal Cable Productions, Jessica Biel and the entire team behind and in front of the cameras have delivered something very special." The Sinner marks the 7th Heaven grad's first TV series regular role since The WB Network drama 15 years ago. Since her six-season regular run on the soap, Biel has focused on film with credits including Valentine's Day, The A-Team and The Illusionist. The drama marks USA Network's latest foray into darker subject matter in line with Mr. Robot after the NBCUniversal-owned cabler abandoned its "Blue Skies" fare, with Suits being the only holdover from that period. The Sinner joins a slate that also included Colony, Queen of the South and Shooter as well as rookies Eyewitness and Falling Water, with a verdict on the latter two still yet to be determined. On the pilot side, Damnation, Unsolved and The Tap remain in contention. "From the moment Dawn [Olmstead] brought in this provocative thriller, we knew that only an exceptional creative team would realize its full potential," said Jeff Wachtel, president and chief content officer at NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment. "Jessica, Bill, Derek and Antonio take us on an unforgettable ride." The Sinner puts USA into the ultra-competitive limited-series category featuring such series as FX's American Crime Story -- which will not return until 2018 -- as well as ABC's American Crime. (Hollywood Reporter)

There are only two more seasons of Game of Thrones set to air before it comes to an end, but it seems HBO aren't ready to say goodbye just yet. Despite the show's creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss remaining tight-lipped over future plans, HBO programming president Casey Bloys says they're in talks with writers about a possible prequel. "A prequel feels like it has less pressure on it [than a spin-off]," he told Entertainment Weekly. "[George R.R. Martin] gives you areas in which to say to a writer, 'If you were going to do this, then go flesh it out,' and we'll see what comes back." He added that while they don't feel pressure to create something else, it would be "foolish not to explore" the possibilities. If it does go ahead, it's rumored to be focusing on the events of Robert Baratheon's rebellion. GoT season seven is due to return to our screens this summer, with the eighth season to follow in 2018. (British Glamour)

Shondaland Legal Drama From 'Scandal' Writer Lands ABC Pilot Pickup. Paul William Davies penned the script for the network's second drama pilot order of the season. ABC continues to look to big names for its drama pilot pickups. The Disney-owned network on Tuesday handed out a pilot order to an untitled legal drama from Shondaland, The Hollywood Reporter has learned. Written by Scandal writer-producer Paul William Davies and executive produced by ABC Studios-based Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers, the project is set in the Southern District of New York Federal Court, aka "The Mother Court." The drama, which scored a hefty pilot-production order from the network in October, follows brand-new lawyers working on opposite sides -- for both the defense and the prosecution -- as they handle the most high-profile and high-stakes cases in the country, all as their personal lives intersect. The project is one of multiple sales Shondaland had at ABC this development season and among the several legal-themed dramas in the works as broadcasters look for broad-skewing fare in a crowded and competitive landscape. The Shondaland sale marks the second drama pilot order of the season for ABC, which previously handed out a pickup to a Reba McEntire soap from Desperate Housewives creator Marc Cherry. The Davies drama comes as Shondaland continues to be a major supplier for ABC and ABC Studios. The production company is behind ABC's No. 1 drama -- veteran Grey's Anatomy -- and also produces Scandal, How to Get Away With Murder, The Catch and the yet-to-be-scheduled Still Star-Crossed, with the latter likely to change its title. (Hollywood Reporter)

Jerry Seinfeld is getting into business with Netflix. The comedian has signed a production deal with the streaming giant that will bring his new comedic projects to Netflix beginning this year. As part of the deal, new episodes of his "Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee" will begin streaming exclusively on Netflix in installments globally later this year, with subsequent installments following in 2018 and beyond. Previous seasons of the Emmy-nominated series will also air exclusively on Netflix. The hit online series, which features Seinfeld having conversations with personalities ranging from Tina Fey and Larry David to President Barack Obama, launched in 2012 on Crackle, the modest Sony Pictures Entertainment streaming service. But as Seinfeld's contract with Crackle began to wind down, talks began with other platforms, such as Hulu and Netflix, about taking over its distribution. Netflix ultimately won out. The show's current ninth season will conclude on Crackle before episodes move over to Netflix. Seinfeld will also film two new stand-up specials for the streamer based in Los Gatos, Calif. The first will arrive later this year and will have a global launch. He will also help develop scripted and nonscripted comedy programming for Netflix. "Jerry is known the world over as both a great TV innovator and beloved comic voice," Ted Sarandos, chief content officer at Netflix, said in a statement. "We are incredibly proud to welcome him to the Netflix comedy family." Added Seinfeld in a statement: "When I first started thinking about 'Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,' the entire Netflix business model consisted of mailing out DVDs in envelopes. I love that we are now joining together, both at very different points." (Page Six)