Fellow ‘Idol’ judge Jennifer Lopez dishes to MTV News about working alongside ‘most positive’ person. By Jocelyn Vena, with reporting by Jim Cantiello Jennifer Lopez Photo: MTV News As season 11 of “American Idol” chugs along, it’s clear that Jennifer Lopez , Randy Jackson and Steven Tyler have found their footing and place with one another. The threesome is already into their second season as the show’s brain trust, and J.Lo is revealing just what makes sharing the judging panel with “Idol” vet Jackson so great. “He has all different kinds of sunglasses. There was one pair where I was like, ‘Those are too big … those are just too big!’ and he’s like, ‘I love these,’ ” she laughed to MTV News during a recent chat about the Fox reality singing competition. “The thing I love about Randy is he’s always so positive, even when he gives negative criticism on the show, ’cause he’s the hardest of all of us.” While Jackson is straight up when it comes to his feelings about the contestants’ talent — or lack thereof — it’s his cool “dawg” demeanor that makes his criticism a much easier pill to swallow. “He’ll straight-out tell you that was awful. We won’t say it,” she said, adding that she and Tyler don’t verbalize their feelings as straightforwardly. “Even though he’s that guy, he’s the most positive and the most great-energy person ever. He can laugh at himself so genuinely at the same time. He’s just an amazing person.” As amazing as his judging style is Jackson’s aforementioned sense of style, which reaches far beyond spectacles. “And he loves crazy sunglasses and I love them on him. Without the glasses, it’s not really Randy — that and the shoes. He has a crazy taste in those things, like a little bit out there,” she said. “Not mad at that.” Get your “Idol” fix on MTV News’ “American Idol” page , where you’ll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions. Related Videos MTV News Extended Play: Jennifer Lopez Related Artists Randy Jackson Jennifer Lopez
‘I believe that reaching out for help is the bravest thing a person can do,’ the ‘Harry Potter’ star says in the 30-second spot. By Kara Warner Daniel Radcliffe in the Trevor Project PSA Photo: Trevor Project As if we needed more reasons to love and respect Daniel Radcliffe. The “Harry Potter” actor successfully carried a history-making franchise on his shoulders for more than a decade, charmed audiences on the Great White Way with his critically acclaimed performance in “How to Succeed In Business Without Really Trying” and is making great post-“Potter” career choices. Not only is he generally talented and charming, but he has also put his star power behind the Trevor Project , which is a nonprofit organization that offers support to sexual minority youth, particularly those experiencing emotional difficulty dealing with their sexuality who need someone to talk to. The Trevor Project also endeavors to foster safe and inclusive environments in homes and schools. Radcliffe’s latest work with the organization is a 30-second PSA that aired Tuesday night during “Glee” and MTV News now has exclusively online. In the spot, Radcliffe addresses the very important issue of supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. “I’m Daniel Radcliffe, and I believe that reaching out for help is the bravest thing a person can do,” Radcliffe says in the PSA. “If you are struggling and need support, call the Trevor Lifeline at 1-866-488-7386. It’s free and confidential, and trained counselors are there to listen 24/7 without judgment.” The 22-year-old said in a statement that his work with the Trevor Project has taught him the importance of being a straight ally and offering his support. “When we let someone know that we accept them for who they are and that we are safe to talk to, we can help save lives,” he said. “It’s as simple as that.” Radcliffe has been involved with the Trevor Project since 2009, appearing in public service announcements for the group’s prevention hot line and speaking out in support of LGBT youth. Radcliffe has called his work with the Trevor Project “one of the most important, if not the most important, thing that I’m associated with.”
Jean Dujardin, Darren Criss, and Chord Overstreet greeted fans as they left The Weinstein Company and Dewars “Celebrate at A Private Party At The Chateau Marmont Hotel.” “The Artist” and “Glee” stars greeting fans… only in Hollywood! “Like” us on Facebook @ facebook.com
Nick Jonas and Beau Bridges greeted fans as they left their Broadway show “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre in New York City. Fans sure do love their Nick Jonas! “Like” us on Facebook @ facebook.com
‘The Devil Inside,’ ‘Beauty and the Beast 3-D’ and ‘The Grey’ also arrive this month. By Kara Warner Mark Wahlberg and Ben Foster in “Contraband” Photo: Universal Pictures As far as excitement for brand-new movie releases goes, January is not a month film fanatics expect to deliver them major blockbusters, award contenders or other assorted cinematic events. The first month of the year falls into one of two seasons of studio dumping grounds: the late summer and winter months during which movie studios typically unveil their most forgettable fare. There are exceptions, of course, and being the optimistic movie fans we are, we always hold out hope. Without further ado, here’s a rundown of January’s new releases and our guesses at their box-office potential. January 6 The lone new release this week is “The Devil Inside,” an R-rated thriller that revolves around a daughter’s quest to find out the truth behind her mother’s institutionalization. Is she mentally ill or demonically possessed? Our guess is a little bit of both. Fun fact: Director/editor Brent Bell and producer Matt Peterman shot the movie guerrilla/ found-footage style, making the film almost entirely outside the studio system on a shoestring budget. Prediction : Horror fans, particularly those who made “Paranormal Activity 3” a $100 million box-office success story , will flock to this one. January 13 The second week of the month pits an action flick vs. two family-friendly films, only one of which is actually “new.” “Contraband” is an action thriller about a retired smuggler (Mark Wahlberg) who has to return to his criminal ways in order to save his family from harm. Think “Gone in 60 Seconds” set in New Orleans with smugglers instead of car thieves. In contrast, “Joyful Noise” has all the elements of a schmaltzy warm fuzzy. A small-town church choir struggles to find its “joyful” voice when its directors (Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton) clash over methods for how the choir can beat the odds and win a national competition. Finally, Disney will release its revamped 3-D version of 1992 Best Picture Oscar nominee “Beauty and the Beast.” Prediction : The NFL playoffs might keep the “Contraband” target audience at home, leaving the family-friendly flicks to dominate the box office. “Beauty and the Beast” will take the weekend. Latifah and Parton’s movie magnetism are no match for the “tale as old as time.” January 20 The latter half of the month is all about action and intrigue. January 20 marks the release of the George Lucas-produced “Red Tails,” the first Lucasfilm production since 1994’s “Radioland Murders” that is not associated with the “Indiana Jones” or “Star Wars” franchises. The film is based on the true story of a group of African-American pilots, commonly referred to as the Tuskegee Airmen, who served in World War II. “Underworld: Awakening,” the fourth film in the franchise, was shot in 3-D with fancy new Red Epic digital cameras and takes place after “Underworld: Evolution”; Kate Beckinsale reprises her role as former Death Dealer Selene. Finally, “Haywire” features MMA fighter-turned-actress Gina Carano as a black ops super soldier double-crossed in the line of duty who then sets out to exact revenge on those who betrayed her. Prediction : This one’s a tossup. We’re giving the edge to “Tails” for its PG-13 rating, the “based on a true story” factor and the slightly broader appeal that comes with it. January 27 It’s the star-studded heist thriller “Man on a Ledge” vs. the Liam Neeson-led survival thriller “The Grey,” vs. “One for the Money,” based on Janet Evanovich’s best-seller of the same name. Sam Worthington, Elizabeth Banks, Anthony Mackie, Jamie Bell, Ed Harris and Ed Burns give “Ledge” an edge in star power, adding intrigue to a film that seems to be a fun twist on the typical heist formula. “Grey” holds appeal for the man vs. man, man vs. nature, man vs. animal aspects. “One for the Money” will definitely draw book clubs and fans of star/producer Katherine Heigl. Prediction : Shooting for the moon and solely because we believe in the power of Liam Neeson’s post-“Taken” and “Unknown” bankability, our money is on “The Grey” to edge out “Ledge” and “Money.” For breaking news, celebrity columns, humor and more — updated around the clock — visit MTVMoviesBlog.com . Related Photos 2012 January Movies
Middle Jonas Brother tells MTV News the Big Apple ‘is unlike anywhere in the world.’ By Jocelyn Vena Nick Jonas Photo: MTV News Nick Jonas kicks off his rehearsals for his starring role in “How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying” this week. The role means that the singer/actor has relocated to the Big Apple for his run in the hit Broadway show. But, Nick is no New York newbie, having previously starred in several other musicals. And, he admits that he’s excited to get back into a New York state of mind. “Favorite thing about New York? I think the fact that it’s all here all on this island — well in Manhattan, at least — and it’s just an amazing city,” he told MTV News. “The energy here is unlike anywhere in the world, and so many creative and talented people in this city and so many people that are passionate about theater and the arts and the things I’m really passionate about. Being around those people inspires me in so many ways. I think it’s one of those places that you have to live in once in your life and I’m blessed to be here.” Jonas will pick up where both “Harry Potter” himself, Daniel Radcliffe, and “Glee” star Darren Criss left off as the show’s very own J. Pierrepont Finch . And in the weeks leading up to his opening night on January 24, Nick plans on not only rehearsing, but also carving out a place for himself in NYC. “I think I’m really looking forward to setting up my world here,” the 19-year-old New Jersey native explained. “I’ve had the opportunity, this last year spending more time in L.A. and being based there primarily, to kind of build a community of friends and have that whole atmosphere. And I hope to do the same here and hopefully have my friends come out and visit me here.” For Nick’s L.A. friends wondering if he’ll have any time for you now that he’s on the East Coast, he’s got this message for you: “I’ve got a guest bedroom, so I’ll be able to have some friends over to stay.”
‘Glee’ actor taking over for ‘Harry Potter’ star in ‘How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.’ By Kara Warner, with reporting by Josh Horowitz Daniel Radcliffe Photo: MTV News After a very successful and critically acclaimed run on the Great White Way, Daniel Radcliffe will very soon be ending his run in “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and passing the torch to “Glee” star Darren Criss , who will take over on January 3. When MTV News caught up with Radcliffe — who we named as the actor we’re most thankful for in 2011 — we asked for his thoughts on his successor and whether he had any decision or veto power in Criss being added to the cast. “Oh God, no. I don’t have any power over those things at all, nor should I,” Radcliffe said. “I think it’s fantastic. I’m actually kind of thrilled. He went to the same high school as a couple of the guys in our show did. I think he’s really talented. I’ve not met him yet, but I’m sure he’s very nice. He’s a very, very talented guy, and I’m sure he’ll do a great job.” Radcliffe is bummed for Criss that he only gets to perform the “Succeed” role for three weeks, due to his busy “Glee” work schedule. “I feel slightly sorry for him in a way,” Radcliffe said. “I needed time with it to get it right, and you don’t have that, because obviously he has to go back to ‘Glee.’ I’m sure if it was up to him, he would have liked to do a longer run.” Although the two stars have yet to meet, they share a mutual admiration for each other. “I’ve seen a few episodes [of ‘Glee’],” Radcliffe admitted. “I haven’t seen [Criss] in it, but I’ve seen three or four episodes probably. I liked it. My girlfriend is really into it.” Related Videos Actors We’re Thankful For 2011
Jonas Brother says channeling female perspective is a ‘challenge.’ By Jocelyn Vena Nick Jonas Photo: MTV News It wasn’t too hard for Nick Jonas to write for Quaker Chewy Superstar Search winner, 14-year-old Gabrielle Giguere : The Jonas Brother has a lot of experience digging around inside the female brain. Long before he hit the studio with Giguere this year, he had already received killer production and writing credits for some of his A-list peers. So, what’s it like to have to think like a girl? “I think my first experience with that was working with Demi [Lovato] on her record,” Jonas recalled to MTV News. “We were a big part of her first record, [ Don’t Forget, ] and helping craft that. And I was a part of her second, [ Here We Go Again, ] as well.” When the 19-year-old has to channel his feminine side, he simply asks the artist herself about the experiences she has been going through and tries to encapsulate them in a song. “It was really cool to be able to speak with [Demi] about what she was going through in her life and craft a song for the setting,” he said of his role as producer/writer. “And I really enjoyed that and having done a lot of writing and producing for other people this year like Charice [‘One Day’] and others. It was great to get that mindset and take on that challenge.” The transition to working with a smaller artist like Giguere wasn’t too difficult for Jonas, given the way he works. For him, it’s all about tailoring each recording session to the artist. “In my experience, I try and work specifically with the vocalist and try to figure out how they work and what their process is and get the best result from them by learning them first,” he said. “We had the time to do that, and I feel like we came up with a really great-sounding song [with ‘My Time’].” For now, though, Jonas might have to let other artists’ projects take the backseat as he focuses on his own, including a nearly six-month-long run as the lead in Broadway’s “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” as well as work on the next Jonas Brothers album . Does Nick Jonas do a good job getting in touch with his feminine side? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
You’ve got to hand it to the gang at Dreamworks — they are really trying to promote the hell out of their $80 million robot boxing movie Real Steel . Earlier this week, the studio stuck the film’s star Hugh Jackman into a WWE Raw ring in front of 15,000 wrestling fans who, it’s safe to say, were not too familiar with the work of the Tony Award-winning Australian. A strained, scripted and shameless six minutes worth-of Real Steel -shilling ensued. Today, meanwhile, mega-scale shows of Real Steel marketing continue — at LAX
