Biography
As the Tribune's nightlife columnist, I interview celebrities, cover movie premieres and Chicago-related entertainment news and attend ...
A history of celebrity-owned restaurants in the Chicago area
May 15, 2013
The week before The Squared Circle opened in mid-March, owner and pro wrestler Lisa Marie Varon — better known as Victoria during her WWE days and Tara currently with TNA wrestling — sat in a corner booth of her Lincoln Park restaurant, conducting one of many interviews that month without having served a single gourmet burger or non-traditional pizza.
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Celebrity calendar: A guide to celeb appearances in Chicago
May 13, 2013
Want to know which celebrities are coming to Chicago? Here's a list of upcoming appearances -- from concerts and book signings to charity events and red carpets -- in and around the city.
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Interview: Jillian Michaels is not here to shout at you
May 10, 2013
What’s it like to go out to eat with Jillian Michaels, the drill sergeant-like trainer on NBC’s weight loss reality TV series “The Biggest Loser” — known for getting in the faces of the show’s overweight contestants?
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Interview: It's nice to be the 'Queen of Mean'
May 1, 2013
We haven’t seen the last of Lisa Lampanelli on the Comedy Central Roasts, not according to the “Queen of Mean” herself.
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'Chicago Fire' renewed, just like Jesse Spencer expected
April 29, 2013
It's difficult to tell who should be more excited NBC officially picked up “Chicago Fire” for a second season Friday: The cast and crew of the firefighter drama or the Illinois Film Office.
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'Walking Dead' stars to draw hordes at C2E2
April 24, 2013
If you're really excited about meeting “The Walking Dead” cast members Laurie Holden, Chandler Riggs and Chad Coleman — and attending Coleman's Q&A — at this weekend's C2E2 convention at McCormick Place, get in line.
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Sighting: 'Divergent' cast dines at Girl and the Goat
April 15, 2013
The stars of “Divergent” took a break from factional feuding in the post-apocalyptic sci-fi film currently shooting in Chicago to have dinner together Sunday at Girl and the Goat in the West Loop.
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Interview: Evolution key to Mike Epps' next moves
April 4, 2013
Mike Epps considers himself a “crossover” artist of sorts these days.
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Interview: 'American Idol' Scotty McCreery is not your average college kid
March 27, 2013
Scotty McCreery's decision to enroll at North Carolina State University last fall might not have created as big of a buzz in the media as James Franco's and Emma Watson's pursuit of a college education, but that doesn't mean the 2011 “American Idol” winner has been able to blend in easily his freshman year at the Raleigh, N.C., school.
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Yes, another surly Harrison Ford interview
March 25, 2013
If getting reamed by the notoriously grumpy Harrison Ford is a rite of passage for entertainment reporters, you could say I was finally initiated into the club March 18. In fact, you could say a few Chicago reporters were initiated that night.
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Interview: Now established, Dragonette spreads its wings
February 28, 2013
Some of you might not be very familiar with Dragonette’s music catalog, but you’ve most likely heard lead singer Martina Sorbara’s voice. She provides the vocals on Martin Solveig's hit “Hello,” which reached No. 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was featured in ads for Trident Vitality gum.
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Sighting: Lady Gaga spotted in wheelchair on Michigan Avenue
February 18, 2013
Lady Gaga has found a new way to get around Chicago ever since it was revealed she was canceling the rest of her tour due to a major hip injury.
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A preview of the top Chicago parties in 2013
January 15, 2013
The best parties in Chicago don’t all take place in the summer — just most of them.
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Interview: Kill Hannah's Christmas presence
December 21, 2012
Kill Hannah has spent much of its career coming to its fans around the country and in Europe, but once a year during the holiday season the Chicago alt-rock band has its fans come to it for “A New Heart For Christmas.” And considering the event — a fan expo of sorts — is in its ninth year (it kicked off Thursday with a rehearsal performance and fan Q&A and is followed by an acoustic show Friday at Crimson Lounge and a concert Saturday at the neighboring House of Blues) the trip must be worth it for the band’s faithful followers.
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Interview: Comedian Gabriel Iglesias is fluffy, and piping hot
December 7, 2012
Most stand-up comedians dream of following in the foot steps of Bill Cosby, Jerry Seinfeld, Bernie Mac and Louis C.K. and having their own sitcoms.
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Interview: RZA head over heels for directing
November 2, 2012
Any rapper can star in a movie, but starring, directing, co-writing and co-scoring a studio film? Even for a man who calls directors Quentin Tarantino and Eli Roth friends, that’s almost unheard of within the hip-hop world. And yet, it’s no surprise RZA (real name: Robert Fitzgerald Diggs) would want to test that mostly uncharted territory.
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Interview: Married life, musical independence has Lee DeWyze feeling good
November 2, 2012
Lee DeWyze was hesitant about having future wife Jonna Walsh walk down the aisle in July to the song he wrote specifically for her. The Mount Prospect native and former “American Idol” winner was worried guests would see it as cheesy. But after giving it some thought, he agreed to have the song, “Who Would Have Known,” played at their wedding in Camarillo, Calif., and then performed it himself afterward at the reception.
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Interview: 'The Sessions' actor William H. Macy admits he wasn't always easy to work with
October 26, 2012
There are plenty of actors in Hollywood who are notoriously difficult to work with on set, but William H. Macy has never appeared to be one of them — or so it seemed. The “Fargo” and “Seabiscuit” actor, nicknamed “Howdy Doody” by director David Mamet for his resemblance to the children’s TV show puppet, claims he wasn’t a very friendly co-worker early on in his 30-plus-year career.
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Sighting: Oprah Winfrey interviews Justin Bieber at RL restaurant
October 24, 2012
Oprah Winfrey was back to interviewing A-list stars Wednesday in Chicago just like the old days, only this time it was pop star Justin Bieber at RL restaurant rather than Harpo Studios and it was for OWN’s “Oprah’s Next Chapter” rather than "The Oprah Winfrey Show.”
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Interview: 6 reasons why The Script's Danny O'Donoghue loves touring
October 24, 2012
Danny O’Donoghue would spend the rest of his life touring if he could.
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Sighting: Justin Bieber enjoys 'Boyz night' out at Ron of Japan
October 23, 2012
Justin Bieber enjoyed a night out with friends in Chicago Monday – or as he called it, “Boyz night.”
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Sighting: Hope Solo watches football at The Fifty/50
October 23, 2012
For one night, The Fifty/50 was somewhat of a Seattle Seahawks bar.
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Interview: Jim Belushi helps relaunch The Comedy Bar
October 22, 2012
Jim Belushi now has another excuse to come back to Chicago.
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Sighting: Charles Barkley picks up Jay Cutler's check at Chicago Cut Steakhouse
October 22, 2012
Jay Cutler doesn’t seem to have a whole lot of fans outside of Chicago these days, but it appears NBA Hall of Famer and TNT basketball analyst Charles Barkley is one of them.
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Interview: Pro wrestler Lisa Marie Varon opening pizza restaurant in Lincoln Park
October 18, 2012
Lisa Marie Varon -- known as Tara in TNA Wrestling and Victoria during her WWE days -- is getting back into the pizza business.
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Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet to be featured on Syfy's 'Ghost Hunters'
October 16, 2012
Want to see dead people? Apparently the Rialto Square Theatre is one of your best bets. The 86-year-old venue in Joliet offers ghost tours led by the All Seeing Paranormal Group and will be featured on Syfy’s “Ghost Hunters” Wednesday.
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Interview: Chicago's Rockie Fresh calls hometown show his biggest yet
October 16, 2012
The crowds at Rockie Fresh's shows haven't changed all that much since rapper Rick Ross signed the 21-year-old Homewood-Flossmoor High School alum to his Maybach Music Group record label in July. And Fresh (real name: Donald Pullen) still lives in the Chicago area when he isn't touring, as he has his whole life. But with Fresh about to jump in the studio to record his debut album, it appears that could all change soon.
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'Twilight' actor Cam Gigandet filming comedy in Chicago
October 14, 2012
Cam Gigandet has been having a difficult time explaining the unusual premise of the independent adult comedy he's currently filming in Chicago — as would most people.
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Sighting: Lady Gaga joins 'Chicago Fire' cast at show's watch party at Haymarket Pub
October 11, 2012
Lady Gaga showed her support for the series premiere of NBC’s “Chicago Fire” on Twitter and in person Wednesday.
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Al Pacino and Christopher Walken kick off Chicago International Film Festival
October 11, 2012
It’s going to be tough for the Chicago International Film Festival to top this year’s opening night. The 48th annual festival kicked off Thursday with a screening of “Stand Up Guys” at the Harris Theater and appearances on the red carpet by cast members and Oscar winners Al Pacino, Christopher Walken and Alan Arkin.
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Interview: A typical day on the road for Adam Carolla
October 10, 2012
Just because comedian Adam Carolla travels often doesn't mean he's gotten used to it.
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'Chicago Fire' name sparks great confusion
October 8, 2012
The Chicago Fire confusion has begun.
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Fans see a different side to WWE Champ CM Punk at improv show
October 4, 2012
There was no script for the “Art of Wrestling” show starring WWE Champion CM Punk and host and fellow wrestler Colt Cabana Wednesday at the ComedySportz Theatre. As Punk pointed out, there never usually is with anything he’s involved in because “I hate that (crap).”
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Chicago's Rockie Fresh shrugs off altercation between mentor Rick Ross and Young Jeezy
October 4, 2012
Rockie Fresh wasn’t part of the shoving match that took place Saturday between Rick Ross’s entourage and Young Jeezy’s entourage backstage at the BET 2012 Hip-Hop Awards, but the 21 year-old Chicago rapper, who recently signed with Ross’s label, Maybach Music Group, was in the building when it took place and spoke to Ross afterward.
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Sighting: Michael Phelps hits the town during Ryder Cup week
October 3, 2012
You didn’t really expect Michael Phelps to stay in during his week in the Chicago area for the Ryder Cup, did you?
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Interview: 7 reasons why Owl City prefers living in a small-ish town
October 3, 2012
Adam Young didn’t move to a big city after his one-man electronica act, Owl City, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart with the 2009 single “Fireflies.” And it doesn’t sound like the resident of Owatonna, Minn., which has a population of approximately 25,570, will move now that his latest single, “Good Time,” a collaboration with “Call Me Maybe” singer Carly Rae Jepsen off of his album “The Midsummer Station” (released in August) recently cracked the top 10 on the Hot 100.
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'Chicago Fire' cast on hand for show's premiere at Chicago History Museum
October 3, 2012
The cast and crew of NBC's “Chicago Fire” have learned that there are added bonuses to filming a firefighter drama in the Chicago area.
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'Chicago Fire' actor appearing at Chicago Fire soccer game
October 2, 2012
You knew it was only a matter of time before there would be cross promotion between the “Chicago Fire” TV show and the Major League Soccer club by the same name.
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Fall Out Boy singer Patrick Stump gets married in Chicago
October 1, 2012
It’s official: Patrick Stump is a married man.
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Sighting: Prince shows draw a celebrity crowd
October 1, 2012
Prince doesn’t tour nationally often, so when he does you know it’s going to create a buzz. And where there’s buzz, there are celebrities.
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Wrestlers CM Punk and Colt Cabana team up with ComedySportz for fundraiser
September 30, 2012
WWE Champion CM Punk will share some of his most entertaining stories Wednesday at the ComedySportz Theatre in Lakeview and then watch as the ComedySportz improv group acts them out. The event will be hosted by fellow wrestler and ComedySportz alum Colt Cabana and will benefit the Sam Thompson Memorial Fund.
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Sighting: Michael Jordan hangs with Team USA at Harry Caray's and other Ryder Cup sightings
September 28, 2012
If you have been looking for members of Team USA and Team Europe around the city this week, you’ve been searching in the wrong place. The golfers have been hanging out mostly in the suburbs while in town for the Ryder Cup at Medinah Country Club in Medinah, Ill.
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'American Idol' judges Mariah Carey and Keith Urban shed tears during Chicago auditions
September 27, 2012
If the producers of “American Idol” were hoping for judges who would shed a tear on camera, they got it in pop star Mariah Carey and country singer Keith Urban. The two new judges admitted during a press conference Wednesday at the Adler Planetarium — where auditions for the Fox singing competition took place — that they got emotional listening to aspiring singers in Chicago.
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Interview: Chicago native Aimee Garcia eager for every 'Dexter' script
September 26, 2012
Aimee Garcia gets nervous every time she is handed a script on the Showtime serial killer drama “Dexter.” Why? Because she never knows if it will be her last.
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Interview: Former 'American Idol' hopeful Chris Medina finds success in Scandinavia
September 26, 2012
Chris Medina is big in Europe. More specifically, Scandinavia.
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Sighting: Julius Peppers celebrates Bears win at Lux Bar and other sports sightings
September 23, 2012
Julius Peppers hung out in the Gold Coast neighborhood following Sunday’s game at Soldier Field, just like he did after the Bears’ previous home game.
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'Jackass' star Steve-O makes 71-year-old fan's day -- again
September 23, 2012
Apparently you’re never too old to be a Steve-O fan.
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TruTV's "Hardcore Pawn: Chicago" wraps filming at Royal Pawn Shop
September 22, 2012
TruTV’s “Hardcore Pawn: Chicago” – the spinoff of “Hardcore Pawn” – wrapped filming September 13 at Royal Pawn Shop on S. Clark Street. The cameras began rolling in July and had been filming store owners and brothers Randy and Wayne Cohen and their customers.
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'American Idol' host and judges coming to Chicago
September 21, 2012
Chicagoans will get their first glimpse of “American Idol’s” brand new judges panel when the Fox singing competition visits the Adler Planetarium for auditions Tuesday and Wedneday.
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Interview: Michael Pena's adjusting to the view from up there
September 21, 2012
Michael Pena wanted to sit closer to the floor-to-ceiling windows at NoMI during a recent lunch — and who wouldn't? The trendy restaurant on the seventh floor of the Park Hyatt hotel offers customers a scenic view of Michigan Avenue and the Water Tower building, and in the case of Pena, who shares top billing with Jake Gyllenhaal in the upcoming film "End of Watch," a far different view from the one he was used to growing up in Chicago.
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Interview: 'Dexter' actress and Chicago native Aimee Garcia talks 'Robocop' reboot
September 20, 2012
How excited is Aimee Garcia -- best known for playing nanny Jamie Batista on Showtime’s “Dexter” -- about her role in the reboot of the 1980’s sci-fi franchise, “Robocop”?
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Interview: 'Jackass' alum Steve-O has 'deep bag of tricks' ready for Zanies
September 19, 2012
If you're hoping to hear Steve-O's take on airline food or the presidential election when he performs stand-up Thursday at Zanies Comedy Club-Chicago and Friday and Saturday at Zanies-Rosemont, you're probably going to be let down. The former star of MTV's “Jackass” and “Wildboyz” — who made a name for himself with his painful-looking stunts, including swallowing a goldfish and regurgitating it — isn't that kind of comedian.
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Celebrity dish: Chicago Bagel Authority's 'The Woody'
September 18, 2012
Greg Gibbs, owner of the Chicago Bagel Authority restaurants in Lakeview and Lincoln Park, asked regular customer and retired Cub Kerry Wood two weeks ago to come up with a sandwich for his menu, which also features The Cosby roast beef sandwich and the Stud's Turkey sandwich.
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Celebrity dish: Swirlz's 'Izzy Bear' cupcake
September 17, 2012
Israel Idonije is getting in on Chicago's cupcake obsession.
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Sighting: MJ dines at Michael Jordan's Steak House and other sports sightings
September 17, 2012
Turns out you can find Michael Jordan at Michael Jordan’s Steak House after all.
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Interview: Zach Gilford willing to work in 'Mob Doctor's' shadow
September 16, 2012
Zach Gilford looked more like a college student meeting for a study session than a TV actor meeting for an interview over brunch Thursday at West Town Bakery & Diner. The Evanston native and Northwestern alum, best known for his role as Matt Saracen on NBC’s football drama, “Friday Night Lights,” sat in a booth with his Mountain Hardwear backpack at his side and his bicycle locked up outside the Ukrainian Village restaurant.
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Sighting: Lady Gaga does Wicker Park
September 16, 2012
Lady Gaga was sporting half-shaven, dyed-brown hair and a black Megadeth T-shirt that exposed her tattooed arms Wednesday when she visited Wicker Park. So in other words, the pop star fit right in.
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Zach Gilford turns down Cubs out of loyalty to White Sox
September 14, 2012
Most Chicagoans would jump at the opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, but not Zach Gilford. The Evanston native and former “Friday Night Lights” actor turned down the Cubs’ offer. Why?
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Sighting: Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall's double date
September 13, 2012
It was double date night for the Bears’ Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall on Tuesday.
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'Mob Doctor' filming in Wicker Park
September 12, 2012
Filming of the upcoming Fox drama “The Mob Doctor” will take place Thursday in the Wicker Park area, according to signs posted around the neighborhood.
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Interview: Don't play your own songs -- and other DJ advice from Pete Wentz
September 12, 2012
You're more likely to find Pete Wentz behind a laptop than a guitar these days.
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Celebrity dish: Giordano's 'Jenny's Fave' stuffed apple pie
September 11, 2012
This one is for those of you who save room for dessert.
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Sighting: Stars come out for Springsteen shows at Wrigley Field
September 10, 2012
You probably already know Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder and former Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello made surprise appearances on stage with Bruce Springsteen Friday and Saturday at The Boss’s concerts at Wrigley Field, but there were a few famous faces on hand that you might not know about.
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Sighting: Derrick Rose surprises table at Giordano's Pizza
September 8, 2012
Derrick Rose is now an equity partner and national spokesperson for Giordano’s Pizza, but on Thursday the Bulls star and former NBA MVP briefly played the role of a Giordano’s waiter.
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No more Rod Blagojevich sightings at Roots Pizza during Cowboys games
September 8, 2012
There’s a chance former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich would have gone to Roots Handmade Pizza in Ukrainian Village Wednesday to watch the Dallas Cowboys-New York Giants game on NBC, you know, if not for the fact that he’s serving a 14-year sentence on a corruption conviction.
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Ben Affleck promoting 'Argo' in Chicago next week
September 7, 2012
If you see someone who looks like Ben Affleck out and about Monday and Tuesday in Chicago, it very well could be "The Town" and "Good Will Hunting" actor.
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Sighting: Vinny Guadagnino hits Vertigo and other reality TV sightings in Chicago
September 6, 2012
Normally when a cast member from MTV’s “Jersey Shore” is spotted at a bar or club in the Chicago area, it’s because they’re making a paid appearance. But apparently that wasn’t the case when Vinny Guadagnino, one third of "MVP," hit Vertigo in the Dana Hotel Sunday.
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Al Pacino, Christopher Walken attending Chicago International Film Festival's opening night
September 5, 2012
The Chicago international Film Festival has had its share of celebrity guests over the years, but this year's opening night could be its most star-studded yet.
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Watch the trailer for MTV's Chicago-based series 'Underemployed'
September 5, 2012
You probably know close to nothing about “Underemployed” -- other than the fact that the MTV show spent the summer filming in Chicago. The brand new series doesn’t have a star like “Boss,” as many recognizable faces as “The Mob Doctor” or any of the controversy that surrounded “Mob Wives Chicago.”
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Interview: Pam Grier takes trip down memory lane, with fans' help
September 4, 2012
Pam Grier plans on taking a break from fan conventions and autograph signings for a while following her many movie theater and autograph show appearances in the Chicago area this weekend. It's not that the blaxploitation movie legend doesn't enjoy meeting fans. She calls the interaction “rewarding.” It's just that Grier appears to be next in line to get the Hollywood biopic treatment.
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Thanks for going easy on me, Michael Clarke Duncan
September 4, 2012
My first interview on the celebrity beat, in 2009, should have been a total disaster. I’d never spent an entire afternoon with an actor before and stupidly listened to another journalist who told me I shouldn’t write down notes or tape-record as the subject is speaking because it could hurt the flow and intimacy of the conversation. As a result, I had barely any quotes and details to work with and it showed in my poorly written article.
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Interview: Jenny McCarthy's VH1 talk show could eventually tape in Chicago
September 3, 2012
Jenny McCarthy is a bit of a talker, so it would only make sense that the former “Singled Out” host and frequent “Oprah Winfrey Show” guest would be next in line for her own talk show. “The Jenny McCarthy Show” is set to air on VH1 early next year and will have a “Playboy After Dark” feel, according to the Evergreen Park native.
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Sighting: 'Shameless' cast (minus William H. Macy) parties at The Underground
September 2, 2012
The cast of “Shameless” — including Emmy Rossum, Jeremy Allen White, Harry Hamlin, Shanola Hampton, Steve Howey and Zach McGowan — partied Thursday at The Underground while in town filming the third season of the Showtime dramedy. Noticeably absent?
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'Man of Steel' co-stars Diane Lane, Michael Shannon returning to Chicago area
August 31, 2012
Diane Lane and Michael Shannon, who filmed the Superman reboot “Man of Steel” in the Chicago area last summer, will both return this fall in the name of theater.
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Help Wanted: 'Chicago Fire' TV show looking for college students, senior citizens, old cars
August 30, 2012
Want to be a part of “Chicago Fire”?
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10 tips for hunting Bears this season
August 30, 2012
The start of the NFL season is around the corner and you know what that means: Bears sightings. Lots of them.
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Interview: Why is Ryan Lochte so popular? The Olympic swimmer explains
August 29, 2012
Ryan Lochte was in high demand Tuesday at Venue One in the West Loop, just like he has been pretty much every day since the Olympics ended earlier this month.
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Sighting: Talk show newcomers spotted around Chicago
August 28, 2012
Three of the newest additions to the talk show genre have been out and about this week in the city talk show queen Oprah Winfrey once called home.
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Sighting: Michael Jackson's children visit Six Flags Great America
August 28, 2012
Before honoring their late father at this week’s "Goin' Back to Indiana” celebration in Gary, Indiana, Michael Jackson’s children -- Prince, Paris and Blanket -- visited Six Flags Great America in Gurnee Monday.
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Swimmer Ryan Lochte scheduled to attend Hennessy party in Chicago
August 26, 2012
Ryan Lochte’s gold medal celebration has made its way to Chicago.
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Singer Marc Anthony co-hosts fundraiser in Chicago
August 26, 2012
Marc Anthony has done plenty of favors for other charities over the years, but now it's the salsa crooner who is asking for help for his own non-profit organization. Anthony and Chicago entreprenuer Henry Cardenas are raising money for the charity they created earlier this year, Maestro Cares Foundation, which benefits orphaned and disadvantaged children in Latin America. The charity's first Chicago fundraiser took place Aug. 20 at Sofitel Chicago Water Tower.
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Sighting: Derek Jeter returns to Roots Pizza and other Yankees sightings in Chicago
August 23, 2012
Where have the New York Yankees been hanging out in Chicago ever since their three-game series with the White Sox began Monday at U.S. Cellular Field?
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Showtime's 'Shameless' filming in Chicago next week
August 23, 2012
Chicago’s film scene is about to get a little more crowded.
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Interview: Dwyane Wade fundraiser has new championship glow about it
August 21, 2012
You can expect the fifth annual Wade's World Weekend to have a different feel to it this year.
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MJ-signed golf ball going on display on Michigan Ave., Pippen throwing out first pitch at Sox game, 'Rampage' parties at Board Room
August 21, 2012
Michael Jordan is lending his support (and signature) to the next outdoor art exhibit coming to Michigan Avenue.
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Mumford & Sons singer and Carey Mulligan dine at Sunda, R. Kelly at Harry Caray's, Kim K. appears in Kanye music video
August 20, 2012
Mumford & Sons singer Marcus Mumford and his wife and actress Carey Mulligan ("Drive") enjoyed their meal at Sunda Wednesday so much, the couple returned to the River North restaurant again Thursday.
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Loyola Academy alum Aylin Bayramoglu has 'Glee'-ful hopes for her career
August 19, 2012
The list of reality shows Aylin Bayramoglu has auditioned for unsuccessfully is a long one: “American Idol,” “The X Factor,” “American Juniors,” “America's Got Talent,” “The Sing-Off” and “The Glee Project.” And yet, that didn't stop the Loyola Academy alum from trying out for “The Glee Project's” second season last November at McCormick Place, just like she did for the first.
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Plano capitalizes on 'Man of Steel' with Superman-themed festival
August 16, 2012
You don't have to look very hard in Plano to find traces of the Superman reboot that filmed in the western suburb last summer. Plano, which doubled as the fictional town of Smallville in the upcoming “Man of Steel,” has yet to take down the Smallville City Hall sign on the Amtrak depot or paint over the hard-to-miss U.S. flag mural located on the city's main street.
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Coldplay bowls at 10pin, Robin Thicke headlines Glamorama, 'Mob Doctor' films at Abruzzo's
August 13, 2012
Following their show at the United Center Thursday, Coldplay band members Chris Martin, Guy Berryman, Jonny Buckland and Will Champion hit 10pin Bowling Lounge for food, drinks and, of course, bowling.
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Lady Gaga sightings in Chicago -- lots of restaurant visits but, curiously, not a lot of clubs
August 12, 2012
What do Chicago restaurants Spiaggia, Table Fifty-Two, Girl and the Goat and Topolobampo have in common? They all feature former “Top Chef” and “Top Chef Masters” contestants in their kitchens. And, not coincidentally, they’ve all been visited by Lady Gaga this year.
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Bollywood film to close part of lower Michigan Ave., Bravo show shooting in Chicago, Jack White spotted at Public Chicago
August 8, 2012
“Dhoom 3: Back in Action” -- the latest sequel in the popular Bollywood buddy cop series -- will shoot on and around lower Michigan Avenue Thursday and Friday.
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Interview: Vanilla Ice's keys to putting on a wild show
August 7, 2012
There’s something a little off about Vanilla Ice’s concerts. It might have something to do with the guys dancing on stage in Santa Claus and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles costumes, and the Halloween decorations hanging up in the background regardless of what time of year it is.
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Lollapalooza weekend filled with stars, swag and shoutouts
August 5, 2012
Before Zach Gilford and his fiancee, Kiele Sanchez, went to check out the gift suites in the Hard Rock Hotel on Saturday, the self-deprecating “Friday Night Lights” star and Evanston native, who is currently filming Fox's “The Mob Doctor” in Chicago, politely excused himself from our conversation in the hotel's It's So Miami Oasis.
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Zach Gilford and B.o.B hit Hard Rock gift suites, David Arquette dines at Paris Club, Haley Reinhart singing at White Sox game
August 5, 2012
Before Zach Gilford and his fiancee Kiele Sanchez checked out the gift suites in the Hard Rock Hotel Saturday, the self deprecating “Friday Night Lights” star and Evanston native politely excused himself from our conversation in the hotel’s It’s So Miami Oasis.
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Lady Gaga dines at Girl and the Goat, Dave Chappelle hangs out at The Shrine and Underground, Avicci DJing Studio Paris
August 4, 2012
There will be plenty of celebrities in Chicago this weekend due to Lollapalooza, but likely none bigger than Lady Gaga.
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Alison Brie and Dave Franco dine at RPM Italian, another Lollapalooza low for Cee Lo, Wyclef performing at Underground
August 3, 2012
The Lollapalooza sightings have begun.
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Celebs who are coming to Lollapalooza, Cee Lo performing at Hard Rock, Joe Jonas hangs out at Studio Paris
August 2, 2012
It’s hard to predict all of the celebrities who will attend Lollapalooza this year. Unlike a major sporting event in Chicago, the stars in the Lollapalooza crowd aren’t just actors, musicians and athletes with local ties. They’re often from all over the country and can be completely random (like “Superbad” actor Christopher Mintz-Plasse and “Twilight” actor Kellan Lutz last year). We do, however, know a few of the big names who will be taking in the Lollapalooza festivities, either because they're making appearances in the city or tweeted about it.
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Prepare yourself for gawk-apalooza
July 31, 2012
There isn't going to be a better time all year for star sightings in Chicago than this weekend.
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Anna Kendrick and Olivia Wilde film 'Drinking Buddies' in Chicago, Chief Keef talks Pitchfork, R. Kelly parties at Underground
July 30, 2012
Before shooting the independent film “Drinking Buddies” at Revolution Brewing's Kedzie Brewery Thursday, Oscar-nominated actress Anna Kendrick ate lunch at Hot Doug's in the Avondale neighborhood. Specifically, the 26-year-old “Up in the Air” and “Twilight” star ordered — what else? — The Anna Kendrick.
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Tribune employee wins NBC's 'Love in the Wild,' Art Smith returns to 'Top Chef Masters,' Rashida Jones dines at Sunda
July 26, 2012
Gold Coast resident Yanina Beccaria and her partner Ken Barrington won season 2 of the Jenny McCarthy-hosted NBC reality show “Love in the Wild” Tuesday -- just as many had expected.
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Interview: Rascal Flatts singer Gary LeVox finally impresses his daughters
July 26, 2012
Rascal Flatts has sold more than 21 million records and was the top-selling act of 2006, according to Nielsen, but Gary LeVox, lead singer of the country music trio known for such hits as “What Hurts the Most” and “My Wish,” said none of that matters in the eyes of his two pre-teen daughters.
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Lady Gaga goes vegetarian in Chicago, Lee DeWyze gets married, 'Man of Steel' teaser trailer debuts
July 23, 2012
Lady Gaga has ordered fried chicken at Table Fifty-Two and deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s during past visits to Chicago, but the “Born This Way” singer opted for vegetarian-friendly restaurants during last week’s stay in the city.
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Interview: Reality TV star Kate Gosselin ready to rock 'n' run in Chicago
July 19, 2012
You can count on at least one celebrity taking part in the XSport Fitness Rock 'N' Roll Chicago Half Marathon every year, whether it's performing on stage during the post-race party at Butler Field in Grant Park or running the course through the Loop and River North, among other neighborhoods.
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Shia LaBeouf films movie in Wicker Park, Pitbull appearing at Walgreens, Jenny McCarthy moving to Chicago
July 19, 2012
I knew Shia LaBeouf had been spotted around Chicago multiple times over the last few days, but I couldn’t figure out why exactly the “Transformers” and “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” star was here – that is until I happened to pass by him on my way home late Wednesday night.
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Chicago stand-ins steal revenue but not thunder in new 'Dark Knight Rises'
July 18, 2012
“The Dark Knight Rises” has already been a blessing for Pittsburgh and Newark, N.J., two non-traditional film locations that replaced Chicago as Gotham City in the third Christopher Nolan-directed Batman film.
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Studio Paris books Lolla headliners, Shia LaBeouf hits Underground Wonder Bar dance floor, Nicki Minaj shops on Michigan Ave.
July 17, 2012
Paris Club's upstairs lounge, Studio Paris, doesn’t need to book Lollapalooza headliners to draw a VIP crowd during the annual music festival, but the popular celeb hangout did it anyway because, well, that’s what they do.
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Pete Wentz on Black Cards: 'Where we're going, we don't need roads'
July 15, 2012
There’s been a change of plans with Black Cards — the band created in 2010 by Wilmette native Pete Wentz after Fall Out Boy went on indefinite hiatus. Black Cards originally had a reggae-ska-pop sound with singer Bebe Rexha but became an electronic dance music duo featuring only Wentz and Spencer Peterson when Rexha and the band parted ways in January.
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'Boss' filming wraps in Chicago, Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis coming to Wrigley Field, Pitchfork sightings
July 15, 2012
If you followed Kelsey Grammer’s time in the Chicago area filming Season 2 of cable network Starz’s “Boss,” you likely know the five-time Emmy-winning actor had his wife’s name tattooed on his hip in April at Insight Studios in the Noble Square neighborhood and that he was a regular at Spacca Napoli Pizzeria in Ravenswood.
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Ryan Seacrest, 'American Idol' auditions hit Chicago
July 12, 2012
There was no need to begin lining up for "American Idol"auditions outside the United Center early Thursday. Aspiring singers were given their 30 to 45 seconds with "Idol" producers based on when they picked up their wristbands during pre-registration, which took place Tuesday through Thursday morning at the United Center. Everyone was likely to get a turn.
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Kid Rock bringing big sound to small Illinois town
July 11, 2012
Kid Rock will be taking the stage Friday in Illinois, but not in Chicago like he did at the United Center and House of Blues in 2011.
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'Call Me, Maybe' singer playing free show in Chicago, Marc Anthony hosting fundraiser at Sofitel, Chet Haze's new music video
July 11, 2012
You’ve heard “Call Me, Maybe” all over the radio and watched the many parodies of it on YouTube (I like the Jimmy Fallon version with The Roots the best). Now is your chance to see the song of the summer performed in person – and for free.
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Olivia Wilde movie 'Relanxious' not filming in Chicago this summer, Pauly D appearing at Binny's, Landon Donovan dines at Tavernita
July 9, 2012
You could count on at least one high-profile Hollywood film shooting in the Chicago area the last few summers, from “Public Enemies” in 2008 and “A Nightmare on Elm Street” in 2009 to “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” and “The Dilemma” in 2010 and “Man of Steel” in 2011.
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Plano celebrating Superman film with festival, 'Millionaire' casting in Chicago, Jay-Z interrupts Kanye West at BET Awards
July 2, 2012
“Man of Steel” isn’t scheduled to hit theaters until June 14, 2013, but the city of Plano doesn’t want to wait that long to capitalize on the Superman reboot that filmed last August in the Western suburb’s downtown area.
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Interview: Adam Richman's next challenge is staying ahead in TV game
July 2, 2012
Adam Richman was the same charismatic guy’s guy Thursday in the Tribune Tower cafeteria that he was as host of Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food” — you just wouldn’t have known it at first.
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Celebs come out for Kerry Wood's bowling fundraiser, WWE Champ CM Punk talks DVD, Plain White T's working on next album
June 28, 2012
Kerry Wood has officially been retired for over a month, but he hasn’t exactly felt retired. That’s because the ex-Cub has been so busy promoting his “All You Can Be” children’s book and preparing for his seventh annual Strike Zone Celebrity Bowling Tournament Wednesday at 10pin Bowling Lounge.
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Ben Folds Five, Lifehouse continue Old St. Pat's block party's tradition of nationally known bands
June 27, 2012
While many Chicago neighborhood street festivals book one-hit wonders and cover bands to provide their musical entertainment, the 28th annual Old St. Pat’s World’s Largest Block Party will once again opt for more current and nationally known headliners.
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Brett Favre booed before football game in Chicago, Jane Lynch coming to Wrigley Field, Fifty/50 featured on 'Mob Wives Chicago'
June 26, 2012
What do retired NFL star Brett Favre and Jonas Brothers singer Nick Jonas have in common?
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Reese Witherspoon honored at Gene Siskel Film Center gala
June 25, 2012
Alexander Payne wasn’t the obvious choice to host the Gene Siskel Film Center’s “An Evening With Reese Witherspoon” on Saturday at the Ritz-Carlton hotel, but the director and screenwriter best known for “Sideways” and “The Descendants” — neither of which starred Witherspoon — can say one thing about the Oscar-winning actress that few in Hollywood can: He knew her before she was famous. Well, A-list famous.
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Interview: Jeremy Piven coming back from London for benefit
June 20, 2012
If there ever was a year when Jeremy Piven could be excused for missing the annual Piven Theatre Workshop Gala — which benefits the theater his mother Joyce and late father Byrne founded in Evanston 41 years ago — it would be this one.
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Kid Rock performs at Underground Wonder Bar, Vince Vaughn plays WhirlyBall, First Lady dines at Cafe Spiaggia
June 18, 2012
Is there anyone in Chicago having more fun this summer than Chris Chelios?
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Interview: Andy Samberg has post-'SNL' backup plan
June 18, 2012
Shortly before he taped “Conan” at the Chicago Theatre Tuesday and impersonated Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Andy Samberg, sitting at a small, cloth-covered table in the middle of a window-less room in the Peninsula hotel, recalled his first late night talk show appearance in 2006.
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Where Conan O'Brien has been spotted, Channing Tatum coming to Chicago, Brett Favre taking part in Grant Park football game
June 15, 2012
Conan O’Brien has been easy to spot around Chicago -- and not just because he’s 6’4 and has hard-to-miss red hair. The Los Angeles-based talk show host has been out and about in the city while here filming “Conan” at the Chicago Theatre, part of the TBS Just For Laughs comedy festival.
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Interview: Ice-T likes lemonade, loves Coco
June 14, 2012
Ice-T will not read this interview.
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Video killed the newspaper reporter
June 14, 2012
During my appearance on Comcast SportsNet’s “Chicago Tribune Live” years ago, the show’s host, David Kaplan, asked what I thought about the subject being discussed because I hadn’t said a word the entire segment. That’s when a cold sweat came over me. I’d spent the last five minutes spaced out and hadn’t listened to a word anyone on the panel had said. It was like all those times when a teacher would call on you while you were daydreaming in school, only this was live TV.
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Past and present B96 personalities share Summer Bash memories
June 12, 2012
The first summer concert hosted by radio station B96, Eddie & Jobo’s Summer Jam, began with Eddie Volkman skydiving into the World Music Theater (now the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre) in Tinley Park, and his morning show co-host Joe “Jobo” Bohannon riding “Laura the Elephant” down the aisle.
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Interview: Diego Boneta lands 'Rock of Ages' and a taste of U.S. stardom
June 11, 2012
Most people taking a 90-minute boat tour on a 90-degree afternoon in late May would wear shorts rather than pants for the excursion. Not Diego Boneta. The star of the upcoming “Rock of Ages” film wore jeans as he sat front row on the top deck of the boat, directly in front of the tour guide and directly under the sun.
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Chris Masterson saves the day at Drumbar opening, 'Mob Wives Chicago' cast member hosting viewing party, Ben Harper dines at Gibsons
June 8, 2012
Chris Masterson came to the rescue at Drumbar (201 E. Delaware Place) Thursday.
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Kate Gosselin running Chicago race, 'Glee' star Chris Colfer appearing in Naperville, Pink Floyd's Roger Waters dines at Balena
June 7, 2012
Reality TV star and mother of eight Kate Gosselin will run the Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago mini-marathon July 22 in Grant Park.
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Chicago nightlife powerhouses aim lassoes at country fans
June 6, 2012
Where will Brad Paisley and Miranda Lambert and the celebrities on hand for their highly anticipated concert Saturday at Wrigley Field hang out once the show ends?
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Club patron throws object at Drake at V Live, Amber Tamblyn appearing at Printer's Row, 'Boss' films at The Wit
June 5, 2012
Drake didn’t head straight to his next tour stop like some artists do after his show Saturday at First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre in Tinley Park. The “Best I Ever Had” rapper kept the party going in the Chicago-area that night an the night after that.
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Boy band One Direction hits Chicago-area mall for book signing
June 2, 2012
Midway through One Direction’s interview with “Good Morning America” Saturday outside Barnes & Noble in Old Orchard Center mall in Skokie, interviewer Cameron Mathison stopped the conversation and politely asked the 1,500 or so fans in attendance, some of whom camped out over night last week for wristbands to the book signing, to keep it down for audio purposes. The band members themselves stepped in to help, including Zayn Malik, who shushed the crowd.
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Interview: Joan Cusack sauntering for a cause she holds dear
May 30, 2012
It remains to be seen if Charlie Sheen will in fact participate in Saturday’s Dash for Detection 5K Walk/Run for Pancreatic Cancer Research in Grant Park. The controversial actor tweeted earlier this month that he would take part, but his status was uncertain at press time.
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'Mob Wives Chicago' trailer debuts, CM Punk featured on video game cover, celeb-heavy crowd watches LMFAO perform at Studio Paris
May 29, 2012
For a minute there, I was wondering if there would be any fighting among the cast members of VH1’s upcoming reality show, “Mob Wives Chicago.” There were no signs of tension when I spent an afternoon observing the five women in March and there has been even less drama on Twitter, where the cast members frequently send each other friendly tweets.
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Interview: Keke Palmer growing as an actress -- but not too fast
May 28, 2012
Keke Palmer didn’t think Hollywood would be easy after earning a SAG award nomination for her role in the 2004 TV miniseries “The Wool Cap” and starring in the critically-acclaimed 2006 film “Akeelah and the Bee” before she was even a teenager, but the Harvey native and former Robbins resident admits her early success did make her a bit naive.
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Turkey president shops at Brooks Brothers and other NATO sightings
May 23, 2012
The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, had dinner at upscale Mexican restaurant Mercadito Monday while in Chicago for NATO. And as you would expect, he had plenty of company.
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Summer celebrity spotting about to heat up
May 22, 2012
Now is when Chicago’s celebrity scene gets interesting.
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Eddie Vedder gives impromptu performance at Stanley's, Patrick Stump admits he has thin skin, Gary Sinise flops during first pitch
May 21, 2012
It looks like life-long Cubs fan Eddie Vedder didn’t take his team’s loss to the White Sox in the Crosstown Classic too hard.
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'Chicago Fire' trailer includes Rahm Emanuel cameo, Kerry Wood releasing children's book, John Mayer spotted at Jake Melnick's
May 17, 2012
The three minute trailer for the upcoming NBC drama “Chicago Fire” features firefighters battling flames in a collapsing building, a firefighter receiving a “Pulp Fiction”-like needle through the chest, and two people sucking face in the shower, but it’s the unexpected cameo by Mayor Rahm Emanuel that most caught my attention.
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Bowling with the homies
May 16, 2012
Bowling for charity is hardly a new idea in the Chicago area. The Miami Heat's Dwyane Wade hosts a bowling night during his annual Wade's World Weekend and the Cubs' Kerry Wood will host his Strike Zone Celebrity Bowling tournament for the seventh time June 27 at 10Pin Bowling Lounge. But it appears local athletes, past and present, are now jumping on the fundraising trend more than ever.
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Interview: Now behind the camera, Cindy Crawford keeping busy with work, life
May 16, 2012
What has supermodel Cindy Crawford – who was hard to miss in the 1980s and ‘90s thanks to her countless magazine covers and Pepsi and Revlon commercials, not to mention her MTV show “House of Style” — been up to the last few years?
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Interview: Daughtry rocks out with the school band
May 13, 2012
It was difficult to tell if the band students at Bronzeville Institute Scholastic were familiar with Daughtry’s music when the multi-platinum-selling rock band performed Friday at the Bronzeville neighborhood high school, not far from the old Robert Taylor Homes. Besides a few students tapping their feet during the two-song acoustic performance in the school’s band room, the well-behaved class was mostly silent and motionless.
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Cubs' Ryan Dempster puts teammates to work at casino-themed benefit, Charlie Sheen coming to Chicago, Tom Morello vs. Rahm Emanuel
May 10, 2012
How did Ryan Dempster convince his Cubs teammates to wear tuxedos and man the blackjack and craps tables at his charity event Wednesday, just hours after the team’s game against the Atlanta Braves?
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Interview: Billy Bush's keys to a successful celebrity interview
May 9, 2012
Before he was hosting “Access Hollywood” and the nationally syndicated radio program, “The Billy Bush Show” and interviewing A-listers such as Justin Bieber, Brad Pitt and George Clooney, Billy Bush was a green correspondent for “Access” just trying to learn the ropes of celebrity interviews. His interviews weren’t always pretty in those days, but he’s learned from them (even the uncomfortable sit-down with Tommy Lee Jones).
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Patrick Kane parties in Madison, MTV series begins filming in Chicago, Hannibal Buress thanks Allende at Comedy Awards
May 8, 2012
Patrick Kane didn’t shy away from photos when he was partying Saturday at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s annual Mifflin Street Block Party like many celebrities would have. The Blackhawks star instead posed for them – as he often does – and now the photos are making the rounds online – as they often do.
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Interview: Ex-'American Idol' singer Haley Reinhart ready to Lolla
May 7, 2012
When Lollapalooza released its lineup for this year’s music festival last month, one name in particular on the rock- and DJ-heavy list, which includes Black Sabbath and Jack White, had some music fans scratching their heads: Haley Reinhart.
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'Jersey Shore' stars The Situation and JWoww coming to Chicago area, Matt Kemp spotted at Cuvee, rapper let down by meeting with Michael Jordan
May 3, 2012
If you’ve always wanted to meet a “Jersey Shore” cast member but have yet to do so, you must not be trying very hard.
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Interview: Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band busier than ever
May 2, 2012
Gary Sinise isn’t sure if there will be a ninth season of CBS’s “CSI: NY.” The Highland Park High School alum and former “Forrest Gump” and “Ransom” actor said the show is “on the bubble,” and he won’t learn its fate for another few weeks.
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J-Lo and Enrique Iglesias tour coming to Chicago, Haley Reinhart appearing in Arlington Heights, Jennifer Hudson shops at Mark Shale
May 1, 2012
Get ready, Chicago. Jennifer Lopez and Enrique Iglesias are bringing their co-headlining tour to the Windy City, and you know it’s going to be muy caliente! But will Chicagoans go loco for a Lopez-Iglesias show during Lollapalooza weekend or will the sexy Latin pop stars end up feeling salty – or should I say spicy?
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John Cusack defends 'The Raven' against critics, The Miz dines at Japonais, 'Mob Wives Chicago' teaser debuts
April 29, 2012
Some actors choose to ignore the critics. And then some, like John Cusack, choose to take the critics on.
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Interview: Robin Thicke changes tune on reality TV
April 29, 2012
Little known fact about R&B crooner Robin Thicke: He’s funny.
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D-Rose tops list of NBA's best selling jerseys, Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall's double date, R. Kelly explains 'populate' lyric in 'Share My Love'
April 26, 2012
Not even Linsanity could keep the Bulls’ Derrick Rose from having the NBA’s top selling jersey.
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Expect more performances at Studio Paris, Jay Cutler and Kristin Cavallari shop at Gold Coast pet boutique, John Cusack drinks hand sanitizer
April 25, 2012
Think of Skylar Grey’s performance Saturday in Paris Club’s upstairs lounge, Studio Paris, as a sign of things to come this summer.
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Interview: Kardashian sisters' act draws a crowd in Schaumburg
April 22, 2012
There probably isn't much I can write about Kim and Khloe Kardashian that will change your opinion of them.
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Jenny McCarthy and Brian Urlacher's night out in Chicago
April 21, 2012
Brian Urlacher and Jenny McCarthy had steak in Beverly Hills, Calif. last week. This week the rumored couple opted for Italian in Chicago.
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T.I. joins cast of 'Boss' in Chicago, Bethenny Frankel appearing at Jewel and Binny's, Vince Vaughn linked to 'Rockford Files' film
April 20, 2012
Rapper-turned-actor T.I. – who will guest star on the second season of the Chicago-based Starz series “Boss” – had lunch at Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse in River North Thursday.
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Here come the Kardashians, Jenny McCarthy hosting autism benefit at Rockit, The Fray dines at Nellcote
April 18, 2012
Kim Kardashian’s last public appearance in the Chicago area — a highly anticipated promotional appearance at the Michael Hill Jeweller store in Water Tower Place mall in 2010 — started two hours late and lasted only 20 minutes.
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Snooki appearing at Chicago-area tanning salon, Skylar Grey performing at Studio Paris, LeBron James dines at RPM Italian
April 17, 2012
The sixth season of “Jersey Shore” isn’t scheduled to begin filming until the summer and its spinoff, “The Pauly D Project,” isn’t filling the void like you had hoped, so this might be your only chance to get your “Jersey Shore” fix for the time being.
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Interview: Common hosts second annual Common Ground Foundation gala
April 15, 2012
The Common who hosted his second annual Common Ground Foundation gala Saturday is exactly the kind of guy you would want your daughter to date.
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Trailer for Chicago-based 'LOL' features Miley Cyrus, Edwardo's Pizza sign
April 11, 2012
Chicago may have missed out on “The Dark Knight Rises” – which opted to film in Pittsburgh rather than in Chicago like the first two Batman films did – but we did get Miley Cyrus’ high school romance film “LOL.”
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Lollapalooza letdown, Demi Lovato performing at Ravinia, Bill Murray dines at Tocco
April 11, 2012
It’s safe to say Lollapalooza didn’t have people like me in mind when choosing its headliners.
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Kerry Wood raising money for charity with cupcakes, 'Jersey Shore' star Ronnie appearing in Schaumburg, Jennifer Hudson and David Otunga visit Chicago Indoor Racing
April 9, 2012
How did the Cubs’ Kerry Wood spend the night before his team’s season opener against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field?
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My trip to Wrestlemania: Have you seen David Otunga? How do wrestlers stare each other down? What is CM Punk's next theme song?
April 5, 2012
WWE bad guy David Otunga feels left out when publications cover sightings of his fiancee, Oscar winner and fellow Chicago native Jennifer Hudson, but don’t mention that he was at the restaurant or store as well – at least that’s what he told me when I met him during Wrestlemania weekend in Miami.
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Kardashians coming to Chicago area, Taylor Momsen DJing at Nellcote, R. Kelly films video at Angels & Kings
March 28, 2012
"Keeping up with the Kardashians" stars Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian are koming to the Chicago area to meet with Kardashian Kollection kustomers.
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Pipe bomb! More from my interview with WWE Champ CM Punk
March 26, 2012
WWE Champion CM Punk, not surprisingly, had a lot to say during my recent interview with him. Here are the parts that didn't make my Punk feature in Tuesday's Chicago Tribune, including the Lockport native's thoughts on The Rock, Chris Brown, wrestling websites and a potential movie career.
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Interview: Behind the snarl of CM Punk
March 26, 2012
When he blasted WWE's higher-ups on live TV, CM Punk had GQ, ESPN and "The Jimmy Kimmel Show" banging on his door. TMZ and CNN interviewed him about his recent Twitter feud with pop star Chris Brown. But on this particular March afternoon on the Blue Line — the train he takes to and fromO'Hare International Airport every week with the diamond-encrusted WWE Championship belt in his suitcase — Punk appears to have gone unrecognized by those sitting around him.
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Corri McFadden hosts premiere party for VH1's 'House of Consignment' at James Hotel
March 26, 2012
While her 200 or so trendy guests watched the series premiere of VH1’s “House of Consignment” at a screening party at The James Hotel Wednesday, Corri McFadden -- the star of the Chicago-based reality show and founder of eDrop-Off -- sat in the crowd in her gold sequin dress responding to emails and tweets on her laptop.
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Interview: The rules of martial arts films, according to 'The Raid' director Gareth Evans
March 24, 2012
Gareth Evans had a rule when choosing which movie to rent while growing up in Wales: If there is a ninja suit or a guy holding a sword on the cover, rent it.
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NBC pilot filming in River North to involve 'smoke and fire,' CM Punk-inspired pizza coming to Dimo's, Zac Efron dines at RPM
March 22, 2012
Residents of a River North condo building on N. Franklin Street and W. Institute Place were warned Tuesday that an NBC pilot will be filming on the corner Saturday-Monday.
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Interview: Wanya Morris explains Boyz II Men's matching outfits, cardigans and, yes, the cane
March 21, 2012
Boyz II Men is best known for dominating the Billboard charts in the early to mid-‘90s with hits such as “End of the Road” and “One Sweet Day,” but anyone who ever wore a baseball cap with a cardigan or ever had the desire to walk with a cane might also remember the Philadelphia R&B group for its trend-setting fashion.
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Interview: Josh Hutcherson a willing participant in 'Hunger Games' hoopla
March 19, 2012
Josh Hutcherson would like nothing more than to watch the No. 1-ranked Kentucky Wildcats pursue their eighth men’s basketball national championship in this month’s NCAA tournament, but the 19-year-old Kentucky native and Wildcats season ticket holder is busy with other commitments.
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Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall hit the town, Jason Sudeikis, Olivia Wilde shooting 'Relanxious' in Chicago, 'Mob Wives Chicago' films at Prasino
March 16, 2012
The Bears’ Jay Cutler welcomed new teammate Brandon Marshall to Chicago by taking him to three of his favorite hangouts Thursday.
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Mike Tyson coming to Chicago area, Andy Richter sticking with 'Conan,' Haley Reinhart returning to 'American Idol'
March 14, 2012
This weekend’s Sports Collectibles Convention in Rosemont didn’t just book some of the biggest names in sports, but also some of the most controversial.
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Lady Gaga spotted in Gold Coast, businesses that turned away 'Mob Wives Chicago,' CM Punk discusses upcoming DVD
March 13, 2012
The Lady Gaga sightings have continued in Chicago.
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Interview: 'Mob Wives' walk the walk -- shakily at first
March 12, 2012
The stars of “Mob Wives Chicago” did their best to look all-business while filming the VH1 reality show’s intro behind Cassidy Tire (344 N. Canal Street) Wednesday, but the five women couldn’t help but laugh at themselves and their mishaps during the long shoot.
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Interview: Bill and Giuliana Rancic revved up about River North restaurant RPM
March 8, 2012
With less than 45 minutes until ABC's"Windy City Live" would go on the air with an episode dedicated to Bill and Giuliana Rancic, one of the show's staff members on the set asked the all-important question: "Where are Bill and Giuliana?"
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Cast of VH1's 'Mob Wives Chicago' revealed
March 6, 2012
You likely have never heard of the five women who will star in VH1’s “Mob Wives Chicago” – the spinoff to the successful New York-based “Mob Wives” – but people who are up on their local mob history may recognize the infamous men who raised each of them.
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Jennifer Hudson jumps on stage at Lincolnshire show, John Cusack interested in 'Con Air' sequel, Lance Bass dines at RPM Italian
March 6, 2012
Jennifer Hudson surprised the crowd on hand for Rachelle Ferrell’s show at Viper Alley in Lincolnshire Saturday when she joined the jazz singer/songwriter on stage for an impromptu duet.
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Lady Gaga dines at Lou Malnati's, Brian Dennehy speaking at Old St. Pat's, 'House of Consignment' trailer debuts
March 5, 2012
Lady Gaga was in Chicago over the weekend with boyfriend and "Vampire Diaries" actor Taylor Kinney, who is filming the Dick Wolf pilot "Chicago Fire" in the city this month.
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In the studio or in a train station, Maroon 5 keeps rolling along
March 4, 2012
You’ve seen concerts at the United Center and the Allstate Arena, at Metro and the Riviera Theatre. But have you ever seen a band play in a Chicago train station?
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Interview: Hollywood-size learning curve for newbies of 'Project X'
March 1, 2012
The three stars of big-screen comedy “Project X” don’t exactly scream “Hollywood.”
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Chumlee of 'Pawn Stars' getting chummy with fans, Jennifer Morrison featured on Michigan Avenue cover, Katie Couric dines at Pump Room
February 29, 2012
You will find plenty of merchandise featuring “Pawn Stars” cast member Austin “Chumlee” Russell at the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas — everything from Chumlee bobbleheads, golf balls and Chumberry lip balm to “Chumlee is my homeboy” and “Vote Chumlee for President” T-shirts — but you likely won’t see the 29-year-old reality TV star walking around the store during his shift.
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Chicago wrestler Colt Cabana teaming up with Jamie Kennedy, 'Hunger Games' cast coming to Aurora, Common hosting gala
February 24, 2012
Jamie Kennedy is on a mission to make professional wrestler and Deerfield native Colt Cabana (real name Scott Colton) a star.
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Interview: Big-time plans for Nickelodeon boy band Big Time Rush
February 23, 2012
Many U.S. boy bands have tried to recreate the success the Backsteet Boys, ‘N Sync and 98 Degrees enjoyed in the late 1990s and early 2000s (Ever heard of LMNT, which included “Glee” star Matthew Morrison, or Audio, formerly the Diddy-produced B5?) but nearly all have failed to make a real impact, for one reason or another.
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Chicago's CM Punk takes Twitter war with Chris Brown to video
February 22, 2012
Leave it up to CM Punk to once again say what many of us have been thinking for a long time.
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Interview: How does Jeremy Allen White watch 'Shameless'? Alone and illegally
February 19, 2012
Jeremy Allen White had been craving Kuma’s Corner all morning when we met in front of the popular Avondale burger joint Wednesday. The 21-year-old actor visits Kuma’s every time he is in Chicago filming exterior scenes for Showtime’s “Shameless” and was hoping to continue the tradition while in town promoting the series.
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Where Rosie O'Donnell and her guests hang out in Chicago, Raekwon performing at Cubby Bear, Chet Haze being Chet Haze
February 15, 2012
Oprah Winfrey had her favorite restaurants where she and her A-list guests would dine during “The Oprah Winfrey Show’s” run in Chicago, including RL and Table Fifty-Two, and now it appears Rosie O’Donnell has her own favorites since she began taping “The Rosie Show” in October in Winfrey’s Harpo Studios.
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'Mob Wives' filming in Chicago, Lauren Conrad coming to Naperville, Jennifer Hudson honors Whitney Houston
February 13, 2012
Chicago might not have its own “Real Housewives” spinoff, but the former home of gangster Al Capone will have its own version of “Mob Wives” beginning this spring.
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Blackhawks, Bulls ready to add muscle to Auto Show, 'Project X' stars coming to Chicago, John Cusack, Theo Epstein dine together
February 8, 2012
You don’t need to be a car buff to enjoy the Chicago Auto Show taking place Friday through Feb. 19 at McCormick Place. The 104th edition of the show will once again feature several Chicago athletes appearing on behalf of various manufacturers.
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Grieving Nick Carter going on with Chicago show, Madonna coming to United Center, Jane Lynch dines in LaGrange
February 8, 2012
Backstreet Boys singer Nick Carter has opted to continue his solo tour as planned, including a stop at the House of Blues Saturday, after the unexpected death of his 25-year-old sister.
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Best and worst of the Super Bowl parties in Indianapolis
February 7, 2012
INDIANAPOLIS -- You'll be happy to know I didn't fall asleep on the couch watching the Super Bowl like I did in Dallas last year. That's because I took a different approach when covering the Super Bowl parties in Indianapolis. I didn't stay until the very end of every party and I drank mostly water.
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Interview: Pete Wentz shuffles the deck with Black Cards
February 5, 2012
INDIANAPOLIS — What is the status of Black Cards — Pete Wentz's first band since Fall Out Boy split up — now that the group and lead singer Bebe Rexha parted ways last month?
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Interview: Bears' Matt Forte says fatherhood will 'mature' Jay Cutler
February 3, 2012
INDIANAPOLIS -- Matt Forte hasn’t spoken to Jay Cutler since it was revealed last month that Cutler and fiancee Kristin Cavallari are expecting, but Forte did make sure to congratulate his Bears teammate.
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Enclave attempts to break Guinness record with help from Lil Jon
February 1, 2012
Finally, an opportunity to wear sunglasses inside a nightclub without looking like you’re trying too hard.
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Frank Thomas wants Big Hurt Beer at The Cell, Passion Pit DJing at Paris Club, Mike Vick dines at Mastro's
January 31, 2012
Big Hurt Beer at U.S. Cellular Field? It could happen, or at least White Sox legend Frank Thomas thinks so. The Big Hurt said his new beer, which launched in the fall, could be available at the South Side ballpark as soon as this season.
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Interview: Povich says 'Maury' is built to last
January 30, 2012
For a guy who is celebrating his 50th year in journalism and TV, news anchor-turned-talk show host Maury Povich doesn’t seem to take himself very seriously.
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Interview: Sam Worthington manly on a ledge, but not in front of TV
January 27, 2012
Sam Worthington has insisted over the years that he isn’t the tough guy he often plays on the big screen, but the star of “Avatar,” “Clash of the Titans” and “Terminator Salvation” did little to disprove his macho persona when we met in his downtown Chicago hotel last week — at least at first.
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LeAnn Rimes' Chicago condo appearing on HGTV, 'Jersey Shore' star Vinny Schaumburg-bound, Chelsea Handler dines at Japonais
January 25, 2012
LeAnn Rimes and husband Eddie Cibrian didn’t live in Chicago very long, but the celebrity couple was here long enough to lease a Gold Coast condo and have it featured on an episode of HGTV’s new interior design series, “Interiors, Inc.”
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Interview: Kevin Hart not shy about past flubs
January 22, 2012
Fifteen minutes before the Bulls and Charlotte Bobcats faced off at the United Center Saturday, comedian Kevin Hart was on his phone, trying to get an extra ticket to the game for his friend.
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Interview: Weddings a piece of cake for celebrity planner David Tutera
January 19, 2012
David Tutera has been planning weddings for 25 years — including celebrity weddings for ex-"View" co-host Star Jones and ex-New York Giant Antonio Pierce — but the star of the WE network’s “My Fair Wedding” says it hasn’t been until the last five years that grooms took a bigger interest in the decision-making process. He believes this is due in large part to the popularity of wedding programming on television.
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Pete Wentz's band parts ways with singer, Chicagoan competing on 'Survivor,' Steve Nash dines at Le Colonial
January 18, 2012
Black Cards -- the band founded by ex-Fall Out Boy bassist Pete Wentz – has parted ways with singer Bebe Rexha.
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Job security has Kerry Wood, party guests feeling good
January 15, 2012
The tips collected at Kerry Wood’s charity event at Harry Caray’s Tavern at Navy Pier Friday went straight to the Wood Family Foundation, which might explain why the Cubs and Bears players working the “Woody’s Winter Warm-up” benefit seemed determined to earn gratuity by any means necessary.
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'Avatar' star Sam Worthington coming to Chicago, 'Shameless' ratings up, Wu-Tang members dine at Joe's
January 12, 2012
“Avatar” and “Clash of the Titans” star Sam Worthington will visit Chicago on Wednesday to promote his upcoming heist thriller “Man on a Ledge.” The 35-year-old actor will meet with media to discuss “Man on a Ledge,” but will not make any public appearances, as far as I know.
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Interview: An evening with Kerry Wood at the barber shop
January 11, 2012
Before making the final media rounds to promote his “Woody’s Winter Warm-Up” benefit, the Cubs’ Kerry Wood stood in the waiting area of the posh 316 Club Barber Spa last week — where he would receive a haircut and shave — and gave me a reality check on his famous 20-strikeout performance. The 34-year-old pitcher pointed out that his record-tying outing that felt like it wasn’t that long ago was actually much longer ago than I thought: 14 years ago, to be exact.
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Interview: Yankees' Curtis Granderson lends his dough, if not his know-how, to pizza business
January 9, 2012
Curtis Granderson doesn’t do much cooking other than the eggs and bacon breakfast he prepares for himself and the cornbread he made during an appearance on “The Martha Stewart Show” in 2010, but the New York Yankees star and South Side native put on a chef’s jacket Wednesday at Roots Handmade Pizza, where he is an investor, and took a stab at making his own pizza for once.
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Jason Segel takes fan to Chicago Film Critics Awards
January 8, 2012
Ask on youtube and you shall receive. That’s the lesson Jason Segel superfan and Wrigleyville resident Chelsea Gill learned after she posted a video of herself asking “The Muppets” and “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” star out through song Monday.
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What to expect from Chicago's celeb scene in 2012
January 6, 2012
It’s hard to predict what we can expect from Chicago’s celebrity scene in 2012. There could be another blockbuster movie coming our way (like “Man of Steel” in 2011) or one passing us over (“The Dark Knight Rises”). And there could be another celeb moving to the area (Rosie O’Donnell) or one leaving it (LeAnn Rimes, after husband Eddie Cibrian’s show “The Playboy Club” was canceled).
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Why Carlos Zambrano was one of my hardest interviews
January 5, 2012
The night before I was supposed to cover Carlos Zambrano’s Big Z Foundation launch party in early 2010, I came down with a case of food poisoning. All I wanted to do was lie in bed with a garbage can at my side. I was in no mood to talk – well, other than yelling “Take me now, God.” And the last thing I wanted to do was think about food, which would be difficult seeing how the party was at Fogo de Chao.
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Jennifer Hudson signing book in Skokie, Rodman lands coaching gig, R. Kelly dines at M Burger
January 4, 2012
Just in time for the New Year’s resolution season is “I Got This: How I Changed My Ways and Lost What Weighed Me Down” – the new weight loss book from Jennifer Hudson.
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Interview: New Year, new Lee DeWyze
January 3, 2012
The temperature was in the 30s Saturday evening in downtown Chicago, but you wouldn't know it from looking at Lee DeWyze.
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A semi-famous guide to New Year's Eve
December 30, 2011
If you want to party with a celebrity during the winter, New Year’s Eve is likely your best opportunity. That’s when celebs who normally would avoid Chicago during the colder months brave the frigid temperatures to make appearances at the city’s various New Year’s Eve parties.
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Chicago's top celebrity hangouts in 2011
December 18, 2011
If any of us wondered if celebrities would still visit Chicago after “The Oprah Winfrey Show” ended in May, we now have our answer.
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Interview: Robin Thicke looking good, even when he's not feeling that way
December 18, 2011
Robin Thicke claimed he needed a nap at the end of his visit to Chicago Tuesday — one of many stops on his promotional tour for his new album, “Love After War” — but you wouldn’t have known it from looking at him.
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Rosie O'Donnell's holiday party, Tyrese coming to Chicago, Theo Epstein dines at Mon Ami Gabi
December 16, 2011
"The Rosie Show" staff holiday party took place at Roof in the Wit hotel Wednesday and included an appearance by Rosie O’Donnell herself. Highlights from the party and the preparations for the party will air on the OWN network talk show.
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Interview: Jingle Bash headliner Enrique Iglesias bashes himself (just a little)
December 15, 2011
Someone must have told Enrique Iglesias he rambles on too much, because the Spanish pop star seemed self-conscious about his longer responses during our phone conversation in late November. Well, that or he was just being self-deprecating — as he’s known to do.
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Bret Michaels' near-death experience in Chicago area, R. Kelly mourns end of McRib, Ne-Yo parties at Paris Club
December 12, 2011
There’s a reason you no longer see a real disco ball hanging over the stage at Poison concerts. Lead singer Bret Michaels said he was nearly crushed by a 320 lb. disco ball while playing “Every Rose Has It’s Thorn” at a show at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre in Tinley Park.
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Interview: City's love affair with Rosie O'Donnell advances to 'nice to meet you' stage
December 11, 2011
Rosie O’Donnell still isn’t used to the reaction she’s been getting on the streets of Chicago. The talk show host, who began taping “The Rosie Show” in the West Loop in October, said it’s far different from the reaction she gets in Los Angeles and New York.
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Interview: How to slay a crowd, by Bret Michaels
December 9, 2011
Arguing over the set list has become a summer tradition for the four members of Poison. The guys each like to make their opinions on the set list known, and will argue about it before every summer tour “in true Poision fashion,” according to lead singer Bret Michaels.
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Michael Bay reportedly directing 'Transformers 4,' Adrianne Curry says she's too old for modeling, Kerry Wood watches 'The Chipmunks'
December 8, 2011
Michael Bay has said he was done with the “Transformers” franchise in past interviews, but Vulture is reporting the 46-year-old director has had a change of heart.
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Camera crew follows Patrick Kane for two days, Giuliana on cover of People, Rosie waited months to announce engagement
December 7, 2011
What’s it like to be Patrick Kane? Apparently Versus was trying to find out when it had camera crews follow the 23-year-old Blackhawks star around Sunday and Monday for a documentary series.
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Chicago wasn't The Fray's first choice for 'You Found Me' video, Robin Thicke coming to The Mid, D-Rose watches DePaul
December 6, 2011
The Fray’s Isaac Slade said filming the music video for “You Found Me” on the streets of Chicago was “really, really surreal,” but the 30-year-old singer admitted Chicago was not the piano rock band’s first choice.
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JWOWW gets hair done on Michigan Ave., Demi Lovato visits Illinois treatment center, Cutler, Cavallari hit Mastro's
December 5, 2011
Before Jenni “JWOWW” Farley appeared at K-Mart in Avondale Saturday afternoon to promote her JWOWW by Jenni Farley fragrance, the “Jersey Shore” star known for her mean right hook made a stop at Fuga Centro Salon on South Michigan Avenue.
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Interview: The Fray's Isaac Slade wants band's music to connect
December 4, 2011
The key to connecting with a Starbucks customer in 60 seconds or less — according to Isaac Slade, lead singer of The Fray — is to not anger them, assure them you’re working on their order as fast as possible and find out what interests them.
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D-Rose, Pippen watch the throne, Rosie O'Donnell on Michigan Avenue cover, Cutler talks wedding planning
December 1, 2011
Any chance Derrick Rose had of keeping a low profile at Wednesday’s Watch The Throne show went out the window when rapper Kanye West announced to the United Center audience that the NBA MVP was in attendance.
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'MasterChef' auditions coming to Chicago, 'House Hunters' hits Lou Malnati's, Common cast in indie film
November 30, 2011
If you’re a great cook and wouldn’t mind getting screamed at by a guy who looks like a Scottish Nick Nolte, the casting directors of Fox’s “MasterChef” want to talk to you.
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Victoria's Secret Fashion Show to feature Skokie's Erin Heatherton, Rosie O'Donnell eats for free in Chicago, MJ dines at his steakhouse
November 29, 2011
I don’t watch CBS for anything other than football and Gus Johnson’s shrieks during March Madness, but I could make an exception Tuesday night. That’s when the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show airs on CBS.
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Ndamukong Suh's night out with Bears player, Forest Whitaker co-hosting benefit, Zach Gilford dines at People
November 28, 2011
Not everyone is upset with the Detroit Lions’ Ndamukong Suh these days. The Bears’ Amobi Okoye joined Suh -- who was ejected from Thursday’s game against the Green Bay Packers for stomping on an opposing player -- during his night out in Chicago Friday.
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From Oprah Winfrey to Lady Gaga, Chef Art Smith staying well connected
November 27, 2011
Before teaming up with Joe Germanotta on the yet-to-open restaurant, Joanne, in New York, Table Fifty-Two chef Art Smith teamed up with Germanotta’s daughter, Stefani — a.k.a. Lady Gaga — on the ABC special “A Very Gaga Thanksgiving.”
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New Tyler Perry show explores 'grown-folk' relationships
November 24, 2011
Michael Jai White and Tasha Smith didn’t have much time to rehearse for their roles as a married couple on TBS’ upcoming dramedy “Tyler Perry’s For Better or Worse” — they taped one episode per day, whereas most shows tape an episode per week — but they likely didn’t need it.
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Interview: Billy Corgan throws his hat into the professional wrestling ring
November 23, 2011
Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan and comedian Jerry Seinfeld went at it during a dinner in New York a decade or so ago. Not physically — this is Seinfeld we’re talking about — but the two men did engage in a friendly debate in front of the other dinner guests at the table. The topic?
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Jennifer Hudson says wedding still on, Cavallari to play nurse for injured Cutler, Fitz and the Tantrums dine at Paris Club
November 23, 2011
Jennifer Hudson is well aware of the rumors that she and fiancé David Otunga had broken up and was quick to address them Sunday during an interview with “Access Hollywood” on the American Music Awards red carpet.
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Romeo Santos says he's not a dancer, Giuliana Rancic's restaurant is hiring, Haley Reinhart shops at Sofia
November 22, 2011
There’s no denying Romeo Santos can sing bachata, but the lead singer of Aventura, the self-proclaimed “Kings of Bachata,” claims dancing it is another story.
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CM Punk wins WWE Championship, Cutler and broken thumb visit Public House, Jenny McCarthy bartends at Cuvee
November 21, 2011
The day after Lockport native CM Punk won the WWE Championship at the Allstate Arena in mid-July, there were photos on TMZ of Punk celebrating with the title on the streets of Chicago. Not long after that, Punk was appearing on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and getting interviewed by ESPN’s Bill Simmons.
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Interview: Never heard of Romeo Santos? Will Smith and Usher could change that
November 20, 2011
Anthony Santos used to work out at his gym in New York’s Chelsea neighborhood relatively unrecognized. Other than the gym’s Latino staff members, few ever noticed the Bronx native. That changed three years ago when ads featuring Santos — aka Romeo Santos, lead singer of the internationally known bachata band Aventura — began popping up around the city promoting the group’s upcoming concerts.
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Interview: Shailene Woodley's destiny after 'The Descendants'? It starts with an 'S'
November 18, 2011
Where did Shailene Woodley — the 20-year-old star of ABC Family’s “The Secret Life of the American Teenager” — learn how to play drunk for her role as a rebellious teen in “The Descendants”?
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New Cubs manager dines at Harry Caray's, 'Mob Wives' Chicago-bound, Jenny McCarthy's date at Market
November 18, 2011
Dale Sveum celebrated his first night as the Cubs' manager by having dinner Thursday at Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse in River North.
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Nikki Reed's 'Downers Grove' film on hold, LMFAO DJing at Enclave, 'Cake Boss' eats Lou Malnati's
November 17, 2011
The thriller “Downers Grove” – which revolves around a high school in Downers Grove, Ill. where one senior mysteriously dies at the end of each year -- was supposed to begin filming in Louisiana last spring. But here we are in November and the movie has yet to begin shooting.
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Interview: 'American Idol' finalist Haley Reinhart coming home for the holidays
November 16, 2011
Haley Reinhart would like to apologize to the fans who waited for her outside of the Allstate Arena in August.
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Common channels inner DMX, Briggs co-hosting birthday party, Corgan addresses pill-popping video
November 16, 2011
What do I think of Common’s new in-your-face music video for “Sweet”? I’m being 100 percent honest when I say that, for a second there, I thought it was a Funny or Die video.
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Sighting: Whitney Port's weekend in Chicago
November 14, 2011
I wasn’t too familiar with “The Hills” cast member-turned-“The City” star Whitney Port up until this past weekend. That’s when sightings of Port began to pour in. And they haven’t stopped.
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Jay Cutler's not-so private 'date night' with Kristin Cavallari
November 13, 2011
You didn’t have to wait until my Monday column to hear Jay Cutler and Kristin Cavallari went out on a date over the weekend. The once-private Cutler tweeted his plans to his 150,000 followers Friday.
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It's showtime for 'Shameless' stars in Chicago
November 13, 2011
“The Chicago Code” and “The Playboy Club” didn’t make it to a second season, but fellow Chicago-based TV series “Shameless” did. And it has been filming exterior scenes for Season 2 — which premieres on Showtime Jan. 8 — in Chicago since Nov. 7.
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Good news for 'Twilight' cast: no more wigging out
November 10, 2011
The bad news for the cast of “Twilight” is that filming of the series has wrapped, and the actors likely will never reprise their most famous roles to date. The good news? They no longer have to wear those ridiculous wigs again.
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How 'Twilight' changed them
November 10, 2011
You already know how “Twilight” has changed the lives of stars Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner, who can thank the vampire franchise for their A-list status and lack of private lives. But what sort of impact have the films had on its supporting cast and the artists on the films’ soundtracks — other than earn them thousands of extra Twitter followers?
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Interview: Vampire Reed ready for limelight in 'Breaking Dawn'
November 9, 2011
Nikki Reed is well aware that “Twilight” fever won’t last forever.
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CM Punk-inspired pizza returning to Ian's
November 7, 2011
The G.T.S. Pizza is coming back to Ian's Pizza just in time for Thanksgiving.
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Interview: When 'Duty' calls, it's game on for Devin Hester
November 7, 2011
The Bears’ Devin Hester estimates he plays video games just about every day. He said it’s due in part to the free time he has and the fact that he feels he can’t go out in public much. His wife doesn’t mind — after all, it means he’s home — except when they have family over.
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Interview: 'Harold & Kumar' do Christmas their way
November 2, 2011
Kal Penn and John Cho aren't all that much like their stoner characters in the “Harold & Kumar” franchise, but you wouldn't know it by the way the two co-stars bantered back and forth about their favorite Christmas songs at the Park Hyatt Chicago hotel last month.
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Interview: Shaq roasting The Hoff? Diesel says it almost happened
November 2, 2011
Which nickname is future NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal going by now that’s he’s retired? Big Daddy? Superman? Shaq Fu? The Big Aristotle?
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Interview: Jay DeMerit's soccer story merits the big screen
October 30, 2011
You can understand why Jay DeMerit didn’t initially jump at the opportunity to make a documentary about his life.
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Sighting: Theo Epstein and Tom Ricketts watch World Series at The Fifty/50
October 28, 2011
Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein and Cubs owners Tom and Todd Ricketts watched Game 6 of the World Series at The Fifty/50 in Ukrainian Village Thursday. Coincidentally, I was there as well and got to see Theo-madness first hand.
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Shaq: Talks with Bulls never got serious
October 27, 2011
Shaquille O’Neal -- a Bull? It never came close, according to the future NBA Hall of Famer. But O’Neal, who played for six teams before announcing his retirement in June, said the Bulls did reach out to him not that long ago.
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Interview: 'Exorcist' star Linda Blair wants you to ask her new questions -- really
October 24, 2011
Linda Blair has some advice for fans of “The Exorcist” who want to ask her a question: Watch “The Exorcist” Blu-ray first.
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Local biker featured on Animal Planet due to pit bull phobia
October 24, 2011
It's not every day you see a guy with a huge tattoo on his face. On TV? Maybe (thank you, Mike Tyson and Gucci Mane). But not right in front of you. And yet, there was this imposing tatted up figure in front of me while I was out for a jog the other day.
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No jacket, no tie, no problem at Randy Wells' benefit
October 24, 2011
When the Cubs’ Ryan Dempster hosts his annual Casino Night fundraiser, he and his teammates come decked out in white tuxedos with black bow ties. When fellow Cub Randy Wells hosted his benefit concert with Texas Red Dirt singer Stoney LaRue at Joe’s Bar Friday, a teammate would be considered dressed up if he was wearing a collar.
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Interview: Pete Wentz, Travie McCoy form pop star bond
March 30, 2011
Pete Wentz didn't seem to mind opening for rapper Travie McCoy at Metro last Friday. Sure, Wentz is used to headlining larger venues with Fall Out Boy, but he's not in Fall Out Boy anymore (at least not at the moment). He's now in Black Cards — the band he started last year with female vocalist Bebe Rexha.
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Interview: A night at the Bulls game with Ron Howard
January 9, 2011
Rather than watch the Luvabulls perform during a break in the action at Saturday’s Bulls-Boston Celtics game, one twenty-something Celtics fan sitting front row at the United Center turned around and pointed his camera at Ron Howard, who was sitting two rows behind him.
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Interview: The real Travie McCoy comes out at the top of Willis Tower
May 15, 2010
Travie McCoy, the heavily pierced and tattooed frontman for Gym Class Heroes, broke the silence on the elevator ride to Willis Tower’s 103rd floor on Saturday right around the 500-foot mark.
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Interview: Backstage with Jared Leto and his 30 Seconds to Mars bandmates
April 18, 2010
Rather than just tell me what he had been up to since arriving in Chicago, Jared Leto, sitting backstage at the Aragon Ballroom (1106 W Lawrence St.) on Friday, decided he wanted to show me.
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Interview: A night at the Bulls game with Zach Gilford
November 10, 2009
Zach Gilford wanted to acknowledge the crowd when he appeared on the United Center scoreboard Saturday, but the"Friday Night Lights" actor wasn't sure how.
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Interview: On the tour bus with Tim McGraw
October 21, 2009
Tim McGraw, the country music icon, sounded more like Tim McGraw, the husband, an hour before performing at Joe’s Bar (940 W. Weed St.) on Tuesday.
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Interview: Insult comic Jeffrey Ross credits karate with helping him sling mud
October 19, 2009
When picking a seat at a table at the Fireplace Inn (1448 N. Wells St.) on Thursday, Jeffrey Ross -- the insult comic with a knack for pointing out the worst in people -- chose the chair facing the entrance.
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Interview: Kathy Griffin is 'pretty funny for a chick'
October 12, 2009
Kathy Griffin doesn’t make fun of audience members during her shows like fellow comedians Jeffrey Ross and Lisa Lampanelli. The self-proclaimed “D-List” star feels she and the audience are “one and the same.” She is too grateful to poke fun at her fans.
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Lollapalooza parties recap: Shot down by Vampire Weekend -- twice
August 10, 2009
I like to think I dress nice. I could be wrong, but I do make an effort to fit in at these swanky events. And yet, I couldn't help but question my style when I went to W Chicago-City Center Thursday for Pete Yorn's show. When I arrived, one of the PR people looked at me said "Media?"
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Interview: Shopping with adult film star Jesse Jane
July 5, 2009
After noticing the blank look on my face in the women's shoe section of Nordstrom, adult film star Jesse Jane told me, "You look bored."
