The popular CNN anchor Soledad O'Brien is parting ways with the news network after 10 years. Starting this spring, familiar ABC face Chris Cuomo will take over O'Brien's Starting Point time slot with a new CNN morning news show.

Soledad O'Brien for CNN: What it means to be "Black in America">>

After ratings were dismal for Starting Point, CNN's new president, Jeffrey Zucker, decided to remove the news show and O'Brien but wanted to find a way to maintain their positive working relationship. The end result is that Soledad will form her own production company, Starfish Media Group, and continue to produce and provide documentary specials to CNN on a nonexclusive basis.

"[Jeffrey Zucker and I] had conversations in general about my role at CNN," said Soledad to the New York Times on Thursday. "What we ended up with was, they wanted to partner with me, and I wanted to partner with them."

O'Brien will be free to host other shows on other channels but told the New York Times her main focus is documentaries.

Soledad O'Brien grills Kirk Cameron on CNN's Starting Point >>

"We can take some of these discussions around these issues and carry them to new audiences," said O'Brien.

She went on to say that the ability to address issues with other channels that "wouldn't necessarily be right for CNN" was an important part of her new agreement.

The New York Times reports that the end of Soledad O'Brien's anchor role on CNN's Starting Point is hardly surprising, given the lack of promotion for the show and confusion over editorial direction.

"Under the previous regime, we did not have a ton of support," said O'Brien. "It was never very clear [what CNN executives wanted]."

She added, "One of the great things about Jeff coming into CNN is that he has a very clear vision of what he wants."

Photo courtesy of WENN.com

The FX network has made a wise decision. Thursday afternoon, it confirmed that the freshman drama, The Americans, was renewed for a second season. The series premiered Jan 30. and recently aired its fourth episode.

The Americans sneak peek: Our fave Russkies are in hot water>>

The Americans centers on a couple of Russian sleeper spies living in the United States. On the outside, they look like the perfect family. They have a son, a daughter and a beautiful home in the suburbs. But don't be fooled.

Each week, viewers watch as Elizabeth and Phillip carry out secret Cold War missions from their motherland.

Girls on film: TV's strongest chicks>>

"The Americans has quickly established itself as a key part of FX's acclaimed drama line-up," said FX president John Landgraf. "Executive producers Joe Weisberg, Joel Fields and Graham Yost and their collaborators are telling riveting and deeply emotional stories and the performances of Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys, Noah Emmerich and the entire cast are simply outstanding. The show is truly worthy of its widespread critical acclaim and we are confident that its quality will continue to yield a robust and passionate audience."

According to TVLine, the show's premiere was the most watched debut of any FX series. It pulled a Live+7 total of 5.11 million viewers.

If you're late to The Americans party, you're in luck. The network will air a marathon of the first five episodes on March 1 starting at 10/9c. You should check it out — it's a great TV investment.

The Americans usually airs Wednesdays at 10/9c on FX.

Photo credit: Ivan Nikolov/WENN

Anderson Cooper is the apple of GLAAD's eye. The organization, whose name stands for Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, plans to honor the journalist at this year's GLAAD Media Awards.

According to The Huffington Post, Cooper's set to receive the 2013 Vito Russo Award. It will be the first time the anchor has appeared at a public function related to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender cause.

GLAAD president Herndon Graddick released a statement saying, "By sharing his own experiences as a gay man, Anderson has reminded millions of Americans that LGBT people are part of their everyday lives and an integral part of our cultural fabric. He continues to raise the bar and set a new standard for journalists everywhere, and I'm proud to call him a friend."

Anderson Cooper comes out: "I'm gay, always have been" >>

Last summer, Cooper acknowledged his sexuality in an email to The Daily Beast's Andrew Sullivan.

He declared, "The fact is, I'm gay, always have been, always will be, and I couldn't be any more happy, comfortable with myself, and proud."

Celebs tweet out their congrats to Anderson Cooper>>

The 45-year-old is following in the footsteps of previous GLAAD honorees Ricky Martin, Rosie O'Donnell and Elton John. The GLAAD Media Awards will be hosted by Good Morning America anchors Lara Spencer, Josh Elliott and Sam Champion.

The multiple ceremonies will be held in New York on March 16 at the New York Marriott Marquis, in Los Angeles on April 20 at the JW Marriott and in San Francisco on May 11 at the Hilton San Francisco — Union Square.

Photo credit: FayesVision/WENN

Russell Crowe is lucky his Les Misérables co-star Anne Hathaway has a stellar sense of humor, as the actor mercilessly poked fun at the actress while on stage at the the Costume Designers Guild Awards earlier this week.

While most would think the star's unfortunate flash of her private parts to red-carpet cameras would be an off-limits subject, Russell Crowe found the mortifying incident to be great comedic fodder.

HollywoodLife reports that as he presented Anne Hathaway with an award, the 48-year-old actor confessed to googling her for research and discovering that she'd aspired to be a nun as a child.

He then cracked, "Isn't that lovely? Then she found out they actually require you to wear underpants when they go out at night."

Zing! Or should we say sting. She was really upset about those photos!

Anne Hathaway's post-Oscar plans hint baby time is nigh?>>

In the wake of the wardrobe malfunction photos going public, the charitable newlywed explained her feelings by saying, "It was obviously an unfortunate incident. It kind of made me sad on two accounts. One was that I was very sad that we live in an age when someone takes a picture of another person in a vulnerable moment and rather than delete it, and do the decent thing, sells it. And I'm sorry that we live in a culture that commodifies sexuality of unwilling participants, which brings us back to Les Mis, that's what my character is, she is someone who is forced to sell sex to benefit her child because she has nothing and there's no social safety net."

Will the cast of Les Mis perform at the Oscars?>>

Reportedly, Anne Hathaway — as well as the rest of the audience at the award ceremony — took the joke in stride and had a good laugh.

Russell Crowe's Anne Hathaway joke: Funny or too far in your book?

Image via WENN

No matter what tough critics or bitter celebrities may say about Lady Gaga, you can't deny that she fights constantly to be a positive social influence for her fans.

In February 2012, Lady Gaga and her mother, Cynthia Germanotta, launched the Born This Way Foundation at Harvard University. It's a charity meant to inspire bravery and empower youth. As Gaga brings the Born This Way Ball across North America this winter, she will also be bringing the Born Brave Experience to each tour stop. This free event welcomes young people to talk about social issues and what they can do to empower each other.

The best way to understand Lady Gaga's message is by looking to her music, most notably her third album Born This Way. Arguably the greatest album of this generation, its lyrics discuss current political and social issues that define our time and capture the struggles of today's youth.

Once you understand the music, you must look to Gaga's fans, the Little Monsters who practice her message and hope to carry it to others.

Love and acceptance

“We can be strong out on this lonely run on the road to love.”

— "Highway Unicorn "

With the song "Highway Unicorn ," Gaga takes us on a fantastical road trip full of hot rods and magical creatures — destination love. It's a Journey–meets–Rolling Stones anthem transfused with Gaga's own flare to build up her fans by saying, "Don't worry: We can get through this together."

Although Lady Gaga's avant-garde style can produce sexually charged performances that are often perceived as provocative, such as when she wears a bra that shoots out fireworks or a dress made out of meat, the singer appeals to even the most conservative of fans simply because of her message of love and acceptance.

Hairstylist and photographer Alexandra Stevens adores Lady Gaga's efforts to push the boundaries of love and acceptance to achieve a kinder and braver culture within society. Although society has shown progress in becoming more accepting, hatred and prejudice toward the LGBT community persist. Stevens says that an example is needed specifically within more conservative groups and it's heartbreaking to see parents within her church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints , disowning their children for being gay. But Stevens still has hope when she sees parents in church show their children love and compassion and accept them for who they are.

"I just love and support these people," Alex said, "and that's the example that needs to be set. Just show love and compassion for one another."

With the help of Little Monsters, we can make a change together.

Human rights

 “My songs are of the revolution; my heart hurts for my generation.”

— translated from the song "Americano"

"Americano," a blend of mariachi and techno pop, has controversial lyrics about illegal immigration and gay marriage, some of which are sung in Spanish. With vocal stylings inspired by Edith Piaf, Gaga sings, "I don't speak your Americano/ Don't you try to catch me, living on the edge of the law."

When Gaga's Monster Ball tour first arrived in Phoenix, Arizona in 2010, she told the audience that other people in the music industry wanted her to boycott Arizona because of SB1070. The SB1070 law obligates Arizona police to pull over anyone based on "reasonable suspicion" to determine whether or not they are undocumented.

"We need to be active — we have to actively protest," Lady Gaga said. "The nature of The Monster Ball is to actively protest prejudice and injustice and that [expletive] that is put on our society as a youth because you're a superstar no matter who you are, or where you come from and you were born that way. I will not cancel my show, I will yell and I will scream louder, and I will hold you and we will hold each other and we will peacefully protest this state."

Her words struck a chord with a certain audience member who was, at the time, coming to terms with being an undocumented high school graduate. That audience member was Jerssay Arredondo.

Arredondo was brought to Arizona by his parents when he was 3 years old, which means he is a "dreamer"— that is, a person who would fall under the DREAM Act. This proposed legislation would provide more pathways to citizenship for children who were brought to the United States through no fault of their own. When this young man graduated high school at the top of his class, he was offered a full-ride scholarship to three universities of his choice. Arredondo wasn't able to accept the scholarships because he lacked a Social Security number.

Arredondo felt a sense of failure when he looked at all the hard work he had done for nothing, but after hearing Lady Gaga speak out about being active, he had a revelation:

"I could sit here and cry and feel sorry for myself, but no one's going to do anything about it."

Arredondo is now an active protestor who is part of the Queer Undocumented Immigration Project , an organization that represents the gay minority within the immigration community. In January 2013, he met Lady Gaga backstage on behalf of his organization.

Youth empowerment

"I just wanna be myself and I want you to love me for who I am."

— "Hair"

Gaga rocks out on her Bruce Springsteen-esque track known as "Hair," a song that pays homage to '80s glam pop music. Throughout the song, she sings of her high school woes: "Mom and Dad, why can't I be who I wanna be?"

Teenagers have forged a strong connection with "Hair," and a group of high school kids even made their own music video to the song in honor of the It Gets Better Project.

During concerts, Lady Gaga delivers sermons, urging her fans and attendees to love themselves, believe in themselves and know that they are "born this way." Her preachings come from a very personal place: She has always been open about being bullied as a teenager, as well as her struggles with bulimia.

Gay political science major Greg Breeden was moved when he went to see Lady Gaga for the first time in concert. He had just come out to his parents, so being at the concert was a huge celebration.

Lady Gaga's message of self-empowerment started to appear in her music with the song "Born This Way." The song's chorus proclaims, "I'm beautiful in my way, cause God makes no mistakes/ I'm on the right track baby, I was born this way."

Breeden still remembers the day the song was released. He cried in his car on the way to school as he listened to the song because it meant so much to him.

He said with a smile, "It's really empowering to know that the most famous woman in the world is on my side and is looking out for me."

Photo credits: WENN.com,  Judy Eddy/WENN.com, Jerrsay Arredondo, WENN.com

More about Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga launches Born This Way Foundation
Lady Gaga to offer counseling on tour
Lady Gaga is going back to school with Office Depot

Prince Harry is getting cozy — again — with British model, socialite and banking heiress Cressida Bonas.

Prince Harry was spotted with his former flame in Switzerland earlier this weekend. While Prince Harry met Cressida last May, E! News reports the two split after pictures surfaced of Prince Harry naked in a Las Vegas hotel room with someone other than Cressida. Understandably, Bonas called off her relationship with Prince Harry.

Prince Harry: "I let myself down">>

However, Bonas seems to have forgiven Prince Harry because the two were extremely cuddly on the Swiss slopes. British newspaper The Sun reports a source spotted Bonas and Prince Harry exchanging affectionate touches and kisses on Wednesday.

"Cressida... climbed on to Harry's knee," said the source. "He started softly rubbing her hair, then they began kissing. It was quite passionate — much more than a peck on the lips."

Be still our hearts: Prince Harry might be naked on video!>>

An Australian news site, News Limited, says Prince Harry and Cressida Bonas have run in the same social circle for years because of Bonas' wealthy family. Cressida's father is Jeffrey Bonas, and her mother is Lady Mary-Gaye Georgiana Lorna Curzon. Cressida attended elite boarding schools such as the Stowe School and later enrolled in Leeds University.

Prince Harry cheats during his trip to Jamaica>>

Cressida Bonas' mother has married four men — and divorced each of them — and has five children. Cressida is the only daughter from her mother's marriage to Jeffrey Bonas.

A source for E! News said the two make a great couple.

"They met through [Princess] Eugenie who is friends with Cressida," said the source. "Cressida is really smart, very naturally pretty and just a really cool girl to hang out with. It's hard for Harry to date as there as so many opportunities out there, but Cressida is someone he knows he can trust as she is already in his circle. She's already passed the test of being discreet."

Photo courtesy of Tony Clark/WENN.com

The 20th season of America's Next Top Model is coming up, and to celebrate that cycle-versary, the show's producers have added the twist of a lifetime: This time, they'll add boys to the mix!

Yes, boys.

That'll help 'em compete against that other new modeling show>>

It sounds like they'll actually be competing against the girls, too — not just each other. The end could very well come down to a battle of the sexes. Eight men and eight women will compete against each other in a fight on and beside the catwalk in order for one person to become America's next top model.

Gallery: Top 10 Top Models>>

With a new cycle and a new winner come new prizes, too. What's up for grabs along with the title? For starters, there's a $100,000 national ad campaign with Guess, whose advertising campaigns have launched many modeling careers. Winners will also earn a feature in Nylon magazine, as well as a modeling contract with Next Model Management. Nice!

Even ANTM winners occasionally have bad luck>>

As for the rest of the cast, all the usual Top Model judges — Tyra, Kelly Cutrone and Rob Evans — will be back for more. The photo shoot creative consultant, stylist Johnny Wujek, will also return, along with fashion blogger Bryanboy, who will continue to serve as a mentor to the Top Model hopefuls.

Also returning this year is the chance for audience participation. The show may not begin airing until this summer, but the competition has already begun! To get in on all the action and make sure your voice is heard, hop onto the official Top Model website and cast your votes today, Thursday, Feb. 21. Voting continues on the following dates: Feb. 24, Feb. 28, March 3, March 7, March 10, March 14, March 17, March 23, March 26, March 29 and April 3. Your vote may even help save someone who was previously eliminated. So, don't forget to vote! Your opinion could change one model's life!

Image courtesy of The CW

The latest episode of Beauty and the Beast was all about Heather, and that's just not OK.

Last week was monumental. After weeks of the "Will they? Won't they?" game and dealing with that stinkin' redhead, Cat and Vincent finally decided to be together. There was even that super-romantic flashmob gesture! This week nearly ruined it all over again. Why? Because Heather exists.

Beauty and the Beast turns beastly into beautiful >>

When we last saw Cat and Vincent, they were tangled up in a kiss as Heather walked in and yelped something along the lines of "Hey guys!" and completely destroyed the moment. This episode picks up almost immediately after that moment, and perky, nosy Heather has tons of questions for her big sis once Vincent flees.

So, in an effort to calm Heather's suspicions, Cat agrees to have Vincent over for dinner... just the three of them. Only Heather decides she'll invite her brand-new boyfriend, too! The incident makes Vincent uneasy but sends Cat into panic mode. In the process of trying to make things seem normal during dinner, they're caught in a few lies, and that sets Heather on edge. Later, after revealing she has a picture of Vincent from their dad's wedding, she catches Vincent going into her room to get the picture, and her remaining effort to like him goes flying out the window.

So, how does Heather address her distrust of Vincent? By going to the station and having Cat's partner search his name. Then she brings Tess in on some weird kind of dating intervention. Heather even tries to diagnose Cat's behavior from the previous night's dinner. The whole thing is overly dramatic and absolute lunacy.

Top 6 reasons to watch Beauty and the Beast>>

Later, things are made even worse when they go to an event at Heather's boyfriend's club and Cat asks for the flash drive with the wedding pictures. She needs to delete the ones of Vincent in order to keep him safe. Since she can't thoroughly explain that to Heather, they end up in yet another huge fight.

The next thing we know, Heather and her boyfriend are at a new club — but being dragged out the back door. Some goons beat up her boyfriend because he owes them a significant amount of money. Heather's reaction? She gets loud and screechy and tries to interfere. One of the guys decks her, though, and that shuts her up. The fight ends when, of course, Vincent shows up to finish off the goons after they kill the boyfriend. Whoops.

The incident immediately makes Vincent worry they're putting Heather in too much danger. He doesn't want her to get hurt or for Cat to know the pain of losing a sibling. Later that night, they almost break up. But, after a rousing speech from Cat, they end up making out instead — this time without any interruption from Heather.

Image courtesy of The CW

Are you going through Game of Thrones withdrawal? Don't fret. The HBO fantasy returns next month with its highly anticipated third season. The network's announced that a new trailer for the show will premiere Friday, Feb. 22.

HBO's turning it into a multimedia event. The footage won't debut online or even on HBO — that honor goes to ABC. Talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live! has first dibs on the new promo. Talk about an exclusive.

Game of Thrones adds fresh meat to its cast >>

It turns out that Kimmel is a huge fan of the series, so he's the perfect guy to usher in its return.

He joked, "I am so excited about this trailer, even I might watch my show."

After its initial East Coast airing, the 60-second spot will immediately appear on the official Game of Thrones YouTube channel.

The backstabbing continues: Game of Thrones Season 3>>

Game of Thrones is based on the popular book series A Song of Ice and Fire, by George R.R. Martin. The Emmy- and Golden Globe Award–winning drama chronicles an epic struggle for power within a vast and violent fantasy kingdom.

Game of Thrones' Peter Dinklage signs on for X-Men>>

The returning cast includes Lena Headey, Peter Dinklage, Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Michelle Fairley and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau. Also, be on the lookout for newcomers like the legendary Diana Rigg, Clive Russell, Nathalie Emannuel and Kerry Ingram.

Jimmy Kimmel Live! airs weeknights at 11:35/10:35c on ABC. Game of Thrones returns Sunday, March 31, at 9/8c on HBO.

Are you excited for the new season?

Photo credit: News Pictures/WENN

Sit back and let them cast their spell

This Midwestern chamber-rock band's hypnotizing song is dripping with supernatural goodness.

Imagine a breezy summer day, warm sunshine on your back, a friendly face and hope for the future — and you have the emotional intent of the headliner, "Good Friend," off their upcoming album Love. The music video is directed by John Burgess. The song stirs the longing for a good friend who can support you through life's ups and downs.

Want to see another music video we recommend?>>

It's a melting cauldron of thumping drums, twinkling piano, guitar and laughing. The words of the passionate shout-aloud chorus are the first you hear — that's right, no build-up or -down! It sounds like a group of friends cheering one another on, binding together like their souls are intertwined. It's infectious! It's also a tad reminiscent of "Ho Hey" by The Lumineers.

8-3-9

It involved eight members and three years to release their ninth album, according to mtvU. Performing with notable musicians like the Silversun Pickups and Bon Iver, they aren't newbies on the scene. Their resume is stacked —Gossip Girl fans: their music has been featured on the show! They've even performed at Coachella, and were also selected as one of the Top 15 Green Bands by Grist.

What's the lineup for Coachella this year?>>

Maybe I've been listening to too much of The Beatles"Here Comes The Sun" lately, but I couldn't shake the striking resemblance the song has when it comes to vibrant, wholesome and good-intentioned music. Love promises lyrical art and encouraging melodies.

Cult or coven, I don't care

The name both intrigued and worried me — but don't let their name scare you. Their messages are welcoming and their sound is multi-dimensional. Some songs have a whimsical aura like it could feature Jason Mraz, and others have a trippier sound where they could feature Angels and Airwaves. I perused their album and their range is surprising.

Where has Jason Mraz been?>>

"The Calling" is poetry: "The bullets you take don't go unnoticed" and "All our love, and all our pain is gonna make us precious" are some of the lyrics. "Complicated Creation" has a magical piano display. Both are definitely worth a listen.

It takes a village to raise a child, I hear, so it's no surprise that this sizable band sounds as though they've put great care and consideration into developing their long-awaited album. The album drops on March 5 and they'll be on tour in April and May, so keep an eye out!

Photo courtesy of Cody York

Craving more? Check out our other music reviews:

Mumford & Sons "I Will Wait"
Emelie Sandé "Next to You"
Tim McGraw feat. Taylor Swift and Keith Urban "Highway Don't Care"

Although the study group has always been a childlike bunch, this season the gang seems to have reverted back to actually being children. In this episode, Troy gets jealous of Abed's new friendship, Annie plays house with Jeff , and Britta says everything with a wide-eyed, confused look on her face. And then there's Pierce . Well, he's just Pierce.

Jeff's dad revealed! Find out who will play Papa Winger >>

It is that wonderful time of year again when the Inspector Spacetime convention rolls around. The whole group decides to go even though Abed is the only one who watches the show. While there, Abed runs into a friend who totally tries to push Troy out of the picture. You know the type — passive aggressively forgets your name, makes inside jokes and doesn't acknowledge your presence. Britta said it best when she told Troy, "He's trying to steal your boyfriend."

Troy has a "crazy girl" moment when he lashes out in the middle of a seminar and Abed, being Abed, doesn't really even respond. Eventually, Troy decides that maybe Britta can start filling Abed's role and be, you know, his actual significant other. But that doesn't last long. Britta will never fill the void that Abed would leave behind.

At the same time, Abed has a "Winger" moment and discovers that he needs his friends, especially Troy, to keep him grounded in reality . Plus, his new friend is a liar. Troy and Abed reunite and end up bonded together forever in a souvenir photograph.

Missed last week's episode? Here's the recap! >>

Meanwhile, Annie is hanging out in Jeff's hotel room when room service assumes she is Mrs. Winger and she lets it go to her head. She allows all the staff to believe she's Jeff's wife. So, when the doorman discovers Jeff is in the lobby flirting with a beautiful woman, she keeps up the act to save face. She has a "jealous wife" moment, throws a drink on him and berates him for cheating. It doesn't help that the crowd thinks he's the villain from Inspector Spacetime and now everyone hates him.

Joel McHale's past life as a college football player >>

After the dust settles, Jeff and Annie have a little chat about the act she put on. Turns out she does this often and maybe it's because she's not living a grownup life yet. Being an adult to her is ordering an appletini like they do in the movies. She's still just a kid.

The best part of the episode is certainly the ending when Jeff gives in to being the villain lookalike and gives the fans what they want. He rushes on stage and busts open his shirt. Nice closing image.

Photo courtesy of NBC

And lately, we aren't seeing flawless skin, delicately placed blush or long, lush eyelashes. Yet, we still can't take our eyes off of them! These are characters passionately fighting for what they believe in and doing whatever it takes to save those they love. And that is beautiful!

This year's beauty trends from the most popular films are about paring down makeup and allowing your mood, your spirit and your natural features to come through — believable, realistic and authentic beauty. And it's all there, just as Mother Nature designed you.

Go without makeup for a week or two until you find your features attractive. It is hard at first, because you may judge what you see in the mirror as washed out, drab and flat. After a day or so, that viewpoint will change. I find that this practice helps retain a realistic point of view as to what attractiveness really is. After you've let your skin breathe, try the fresh look inspired by Jessica Chastain in Zero Dark Thirty.

Enhance your raw beauty

1. Forgo foundation, concealer and powder.
2. Use a gentle cleanser. Your skin will relax and start to take on a natural, healthy glow. I am a fan of Gentle Daily Cleanser by USANA Sense or Honey Girl Organics Facial Cleanser.
3. A healing and protective moisturizer is a must. Try my Boomsilk by Cindy Joseph, Face and Eye Cream by Honey Girl Organics or Daily Moisturizer by USANA.
4. Use a bronzer toned blush to add believable color to cheeks and eyelids. The brownish tone of a bronzer will keep your color from looking made up. Sun Bunny by Too Faced, Bronzer by Armani and Boomstick Color by Cindy Joseph are all great options!
5. Use no-fiber mascara in brown tones to keep the no makeup look. Try Benefit BADgal Brown, Maybelline Great Lash or Covergirl Exact Eyelights.
6. Lips can be stained with a brownish berry tone and should be well blotted so the color stains rather than coats your lips.

As you make your beauty regimen decisions this year, look to the movies for inspiration to go raw and real to discover your own authentic beauty.

More celebrity-inspired beauty

Get Claire Danes' Golden Globes makeup
Kim Kardashian's beauty weapon during pregnancy
Celeb Hairstyle of the Week: Keri Russell

Photo credit: Columbia Pictures via WENN.com

The best part about Law & Order: SVU doing a Rihanna-inspired story? You get to hear Mariska Hargitay say the kind of stuff you'd like to tell Rihanna.

"What he did to you is despicable,"Mariska Hargitay grits out in the promo released by the network, which previews an ep that the voiceover promises is "a familiar story of two celebrities intertwined by abuse."

The promo also features prominent pictures of a Rihanna-lookalike on the cover of a tabloid, with a banged up face, and that same girl posing for paparazzi and yelling "I'm sorry!" to the Chris Brown doppelganger from the confines of a great big bed, wrapped in sheets.

Sure sounds like some celebrity known for publicly posting photos of herself in bed in various states of undress.

"Caleb has a hold on her," Hargitay further opines. "Going against him feels impossible."

All righty. Business Insider grabbed a brief shot from the promo that appears to show the abused female celebrity dead. "Get ready for the Law & Order twist," promises the promo. Is this the twist? The Rihanna stand-in ends up murdered?

Chris Brown thinks he's being crucified like Jesus>>

It sure sounds like Ice-T says, "He's dead," so maybe both the SVU World Rihanna and Chris wind up on the slab.

Regardless, should be an interesting one for gossip-watchers.

The Law & Order franchise has taken on celebrities before. Law & Order: Criminal Intent had a 2007 episode, Bombshell, that was something of the Anna Nicole Story, while Season 17 of Law & Order had the episode "Murder Book," where an estranged ex-husband wrote an O.J. Simpson-like If I Did It book.

The Rihanna and Chris-ish episode, "Funny Valentine," is due to air Wed. Feb. 27.

Since Rihanna DGAF about our opinions on her relationship, do you suppose she'll watch?

Image courtesy WENN.com

It's just talks about talks at this point, but Mark Hamill confirms in an Entertainment Tonight interview that George Lucas had indeed asked whether he, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford were interested in taking some part in the soon-to-come Star Wars sequels under the direction of Disney.

"He did say that if we didn't want to do it, they wouldn't cast another actor in our parts; they would write it out," said Hamill.

Apparently, talks have gotten even a bit further than that, as scriptwriter Michael Arndt and Lucasfilm's Kathleen Kennedy are trying to work out a time to meet with Hamill.

"Both have had meetings set that were postponed on their end, not mine," said the pleasantly self-deprecating Hamill. "They're more busy than I am."

Hamill has his own ideas about where the storyline is headed. "I'm assuming, because I haven’t talked to the writers, that these movies would be about our offspring. Like my character would be sort of in the Obi-Wan range," he said.

NFW: Harrison Ford to return as Han Solo?>>

Hamill said that when he found out while making the original Star Wars movie that pretty much the only woman in the entire cinematic universe, Carrie Fisher's Princess Leia, was his sister, he thought, "Well, I’m going to wind up like Sir Alec [Guinness, who played Obi-Wan]. I’m going to be a lonely old hermit living out in some kind of desert igloo with a couple of robots."

Ha! You're kind of loving Mark Hamill right now, right? You're going to love him even more in a second: He actually told George Lucas to his face that CGI was screwing up the Star Wars series.

”I said to George that I wanted to go back to the way it was, in the sense that ours was much more carefree and lighthearted and humorous; in my opinion, anyway," Hamill said. "I hope they find the right balance of CGI with practical effects. I love props, I love models, miniatures, matte paintings. I'm sort of old-school. I think if you go too far in the direction of CGI it winds up looking like just a giant video game, and that's unfortunate," he said. "If they listen to me at all, it’ll be, 'Lighten up and go retro with the way it looks.'"

Also? Can the long scenes of politicians sitting around talking. Please.

Image courtesy Nikki Nelson/WENN.com

Ethan Hawke and Joaquin Phoenix are two outspoken, anti-Oscars actors. Four months after the Walk the Line actor crossed the line by publicly slamming the Academy Awards, the man seen here has echoed the same thoughts.

The New York Post reports Ethan Hawke told Gotham magazine, "People want to turn everything in this country into a competition... [so] it’s clear who the winner is and who the loser is."

Despite having twice been nominated for an Oscar statue the Mark McGrath look-a-like, pictured here on Feb. 11, has never had the honor of winning.

Ethan Hawke's scary new guyliner-laden makeover>>

Ethan Hawke continued of the show that's going all-out to up its cool factor, "It’s why they like to announce the grosses of movies, because it’s a way of saying, 'This one is No. 1.' It’s so asinine... if you look at how many forgettable, stupid movies have won Oscars and how many mediocre performers have Oscars above their fireplace. Making a priority of chasing these fake carrots and money and dubious accolades, I think it’s really destructive."

Carrots, you say? That specific word rings a bell.

Calling the awards "total, utter bulls**t" in Oct. 2012, Joaquin Phoenix vented, "I don't want to be a part of it. I don't believe in it. It's a carrot, but it's the worst-tasting carrot I've ever tasted in my whole life. I don't want this carrot. It's totally subjective. Pitting people against each other... It's the stupidest thing in the whole world."

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Phoenix later backtracked a bit, however, explaining, "I wouldn't have the career that I have if it weren't for the Oscars. It's not like I f**king hate the Oscars. It doesn't occupy my time to where I can build up hate."

What do you think of Ethan Hawke's Oscars-bashing?

Image via WENN

You know you love your kids, but are you being emotionally neglectful and causing damage that will last long into your children's adult life?

Meeting all of
THEIR needs

Before you turn yourself in to CPS, discover tips on how to meet the emotional needs of your children so you can raise happy, healthy kids.

Even when you lavish lots of kisses and hugs on your kiddo, you may not be giving him the emotional support he needs. "Loving your kids and being emotionally attentive to them are not the same thing," explains psychologist Dr. Jonice Webb. "If you ignore your child's emotions, your child will feel ignored on some level, no matter how much attention you pay to him in other ways." Dr. Webb offers these tips for parents to avoid the trap of emotional neglect:

While it's easy to go into mother hen mode and respond to what you assume is the situation, it's important that you truly understand what type of emotional support your kids really need in that moment. But, no one promises it to be an easy feat! "Emotion hides behind behavior," explains Dr. Webb. "It's easier to get angry with a child who is sulking and being stubborn, for example, than to look for the underlying emotion that's causing the behavior, such as fear." Pay extra attention to your kid when you see any hint of emotion and properly identify what it is he's truly experiencing.

Discover 8 ways to raise a "whole" child>> 

Before you can guide your youngster about what he's feeling, first you'll need to seek out what is triggering the emotion at hand. For example, when you notice that your tween is frustrated is it because his homework is difficult or is he frustrated about having to finish it before playing his new game? Once you know what's prompting your kiddo's emotion you can help him navigate his loneliness, anger, frustration and more.

To help your youngster receive the emotional support you're offering, you'll have to get through to him first. And, the most effective way to break down those walls is to help your child know that you understand how he feels. "When you show that you understand your child's emotion, he will feel an instant bond with you," advises Webb. "Put the feelings into words for him and teach him how to use his own words to express it. For instance, if he spends a lot of time alone, you might say, 'You seem sad to be all alone on a beautiful day. Is it lonely not to have a friend here with you?'"

It's human nature for your child to be his own biggest critic, but it's up to you as a parent to teach your kiddo the art of self-forgiveness. Help your youngster to understand which parts of a situation he can control and what he can change about it, but keep your judgments to yourself; feeling the blame from you may result in him automatically blaming himself and feeling emotionally neglected.

Check out these tips on how to boost your child's self-esteem>>

Giving your kids the emotional support they need to grow into happy kids with good self-esteem doesn't mean you have to beat yourself up in the process. "A parent doesn't have to be perfect to make the child feel emotionally cared for," assures Webb. "If she or he works a little bit at a time to be more emotionally attentive, it can make an enormous difference in the adult child's happiness." And, that is the best way you can show you love your kids!

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Faith Hill — 2000

Whitney Houston had hit a bad place in her life around the time of the 2000 Academy Awards. The singer was set to perform a "medley" with Garth Brooks, Ray Charles, Isaac Hayes, Queen Latifah and Dionne Warwick, according to People. But she was removed from the lineup just 48 hours before the show.

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"The poor lady couldn't sing," Oscar spokesperson Jane LaBonte told People at the time. "Her throat was in trouble."

Then-newcomer Faith Hill was quickly nabbed to fill Houston's shoes – a performance that made her career. Hill ended up nailing it, and the performance launched her from country singer into the realm of superstardom. Unfortunately the video is not available online, but trust us, it was amazing.

U2 — 2003

U2's performance at the 2003 Oscars was an important moment for the band — and their country — because, as fellow Irishman Colin Farrell put it, their song honored "new Americans who left Ireland in search of a better life, willing to fight for it at any expense."

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The song, "The Hands That Built America," was written for Gangs of New York.

"Footage of immigrants entering Ellis Island splashed across the stage's backdrop while Bono belted out 'Hallelujah,' creating an Oscar moment of epic proportions as only he can," said Billboard.

Madonna —1991

Inviting early-'90s Madonna to a classy awards show was always a risk, but Madonna's song "Sooner or Later" from Dick Tracy was nominated, and therefore she was invited.

"At the '91 Oscars, Billy Crystal introduced Madonna's performance... as 'the NC-17 portion of our really big show,'" said Billboard.

Luckily for the show's producers, she kept it clean and added some Old Hollywood glitz and glamour.

Elliott Smith — 1998

Elliott Smith may be one of the most underrated of all Oscar performers. The singer's song "Miss Misery" from the Good Will Hunting soundtrack was nominated in 1998. However, that happened to be the same year Titanic ruled the show, and Celine Dion's performance was the over-the-top Best Original Song nominee.

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Smith came onstage with just a guitar and sang his song.

"Though Smith ultimately lost out to the Titanic ballad 'My Heart Will Go On,'" said Billboard, "for one brief moment, the late artist's haunting performance was the David to Celine Dion's Goliath."

Michael Jackson — 1973

Jackson's 1973 Oscar performance was the start of an amazing career. The singer was only 14 years old at the time, and his performance introduced him to the world.

"Audience members appeared breathless while they watched the future King of Pop sing in such an impressive range," said Billboard. "It may have lost the Best Original Song award that year, but 'Ben' was Jackson's first No. 1 hit without the Jackson 5, and the beginning of a history-making solo career."

Photo courtesy WENN.com

Read more Oscars news

Five surprising actors who've never won an Academy Award

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Channel your inner Hollywood star and sip a Patrón Tequila or Ultimat Vodka cocktail while you watch the red carpet show. These luxurious drinks, developed and designed by Wolfgang Puck and Cheryl Cecchetto of Sequoia Productions, will be featured at this year's Oscars preshow and Governors Ball.

The Ultimat blue sunrise

Ingredients:

• 1-1/2 ounces Ultimat Vodka
• 1-1/2 ounces Patrón Citrónge Orange Liqueur
• 2 ounces fresh blueberry juice
• 1 ounce fresh mango juice
• Fresh blueberries for garnish
• Silver rim
• Ice

Directions:

1. Rim glass with sugar by wetting rim and dipping in a small plate of sugar.
2. In a shaker filled with ice, add first 4 ingredients.
3. Shake and strain into prepared glass. Garnish with blueberries.

The Patrón gold cosmopolitan

In Hollywood, this cocktail will actually have a 10 carat gold flake sugar rim, but you can substitute turbinado sugar for a less-expensive effect.

Ingredients:

• 1-1/2 ounces Patrón Silver Tequila
• 1/2 ounce Patrón Citrónge Orange Liqueur
• 2 ounces organic blackberry juice
• 1 ounce fresh orange juice
• Fresh blackberries for garnish
• 10 carat gold rim
• Ice

Directions:

1. Rim glass with sugar by wetting rim and dipping in a small plate of sugar.
2. In a shaker filled with ice, add first 4 ingredients.
3. Shake and strain into prepared glass. Garnish with blackberries.

Yum!

Need some tasty bites to go with your cocktails? Check out these movie-inspired Oscars party appetizers>>

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Most of us are hit with zits at some time in our lives. Blemishes and acne can pop up on our face, neck, back, chest and shoulders. It isn’t a serious health risk, but severe cases can cause permanent scarring on the outside — and inside.

Battling acne

Battling chronic acne can lead to emotional stress, particularly in adolescents who already face the turmoil of physical and psychological changes. The stress of acne can lead to poor self-image, social inhibition and anxiety.

Acne can occur in the following forms:

• Comedones: Non-inflammatory papules that can be open or closed .

• Whiteheads: White dots that are pores impacted with oil and covered by skin layers.

• Blackheads: Black bumps that are impacted pores in which material pushes out through the follicles. The black color is not from dirt. It may be from bacteria and matter that reacts with oxygen.

• Papules: Lesions that are inflamed and can be tender to the touch. These usually appear as small, pink bumps on the skin.

• Pustules: Lesions that are inflamed and filled with pus. They may be red at the base.

• Nodules: Solid lesions that are large, painful and lodged deep within the skin. Papules, pustules or nodules are more serious lesions appearing red and swollen due to inflammation or infection of the tissue around the clogged follicles.

• Cysts: Pus-filled lesions deep under the skin. These may cause scarring and pain.

Several key factors contribute to acne development.

Hormones: Androgens elevate during puberty causing sebaceous glands to get larger and produce more sebum. Hormonal changes also occur during pregnancy or after starting or stopping birth control pills. Hormones affect the skin's oil glands which create sebum, an oily substance that spills onto the skin through hair follicle openings . The blend of oil and cells allows bacteria that normally live on the skin to grow in the follicle openings. As a result, the pores become clogged and pimples develop.

Genetics: Researchers believe that there may be a genetic predisposition to developing acne, inherited from parents. This doesn't mean a teenager is destined to repeat their parents' acne misery, but they may be more likely to have issues with problem skin.

Medications: Some drugs — anti-epilepsy medication, prednisone, androgens and lithium, for example — can cause acne, even in adults.

Cosmetics: Anything with a greasy consistency can change the cells of the follicles, causing them to stick together which results in a plugged pore. Water-based products are less likely to cause acne.

Stress: High levels of stress can be rough on your skin. CRH is released into the blood from the brain during times of stress and creates cortisol that causes oil glands to produce more oil — which leads to pores getting blocked. Deep breathing, exercise, joining a teen support group or talking to parents, clergy or a trusted counselor can all help teens deal with stress.

Friction: Irritation of your skin caused by leaning on or rubbing the skin, or even harsh scrubbing, may cause acne. Bike helmets, backpacks or tight collars can also irritate the skin and lead to a breakout.

Next up:  Acne treatments and prevention

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Dermatologists are doctors who specialize in skin problems and often treat acne patients, particularly in severe cases. Family or general practitioners, pediatricians or internists may treat milder forms.

OTC topical drug treatments: Over-the-counter medications include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, alpha-hydroxy acid and tea tree oil and are available in many forms including gel, lotion, cream, soap or pads. Used regularly, they can be moderately effective. They may take four to eight weeks to have a positive effect.

Prescription topical drug treatments: The prescription topical drug treatments that are used to treat acne include stronger doses of benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, erythromycin, antibiotics, tretinoin, tazarotene, adapalene and azelaic acid.

Prescription oral drug treatments: For patients with moderate to severe acne, doctors often prescribe oral antibiotics in addition to topical medication. Oral antibiotics are thought to help control acne by curbing the growth of bacteria, thereby decreasing inflammation. These medications are usually taken daily for a period of four to six months, then tapered off and discontinued as the acne improves. The most potent oral drug — isotretinoin — is usually taken once or twice a day for 16 to 20 weeks. It is believed to markedly reduce the size of the oil glands so that less oil is produced and to help prevent clogged pores. Isotretinoin can cause birth defects in the developing fetuses of women who are pregnant while taking the drug. Women of childbearing age must not be pregnant and must not become pregnant while taking isotretinoin.

More effective than constantly attacking the symptoms of acne is to address the underlying causes that you can control.

Cut caffeine. At least cut back on those sodas and coffees. Caffeine stimulates the glands to produce sebum that clogs pores and hair follicles.

Get moving. Exercise is one of the best cures for acne. While it does stimulate sweat glands, it keeps them working to remain unclogged which prevents flare-ups. It's important to rinse your face after heavy exercise.

Eliminate or reduce highly processed foods, sugars and grains. Refined carbohydrates and sugar cause a surge of insulin and an insulin-like growth factor called IGF-1 in the body. This can lead to an overproduction of male hormones, which cause pores in the skin to secrete sebum. In addition, IGF-1 causes skin cells known as keratinocytes to multiply, a process that is associated with acne.

Avoid or minimize hot water and chlorine. Avoid chlorine and too much exposure to hot water which can cause oxidative damage. Limit showers to one per day, use a lower water temperature and decrease soak time in the bath.

Add more water. Drink lots of water. Water hydrates the skin and prevents inflammation to keep it healthy and smooth.

Don't be picky. Picking or squeezing blemishes can make acne worse.

Don't overwash. Don't wash your face too often. Once in the morning and once before bed is enough. Too many soaps and chemicals can trigger acne flare-ups. Pat your face dry after cleansing instead of harsh rubbing which can irritate the skin and inflame acne.

Avoid using a lot of different products or harsh chemicals. Too many moisturizers and lotions can clog pores and trigger flare-ups. Avoid all harsh chemicals whenever possible, and consider using only organic skin care products, preferably ones that use nourishing botanicals.

Most teenagers battle a blemish here and there, but for those who have chronic acne, just looking in the mirror can become an emotional struggle. By partnering with parents, teens can tackle the underlying causes of acne and face the world with more confidence and a healthy glow.

More on teen skin care

Skin care and your teen
Helping teens tackle common skin care problems
Acne and teen self-esteem

You read the title correctly. Candy that has been made out of potato. It sounds a little strange but don't worry, it's really delicious! We sweetened up the potato with some powdered sugar and then added in a little peanut butter ribbon. It's sweet, delicious and totally unique!

Potato candy with peanut butter ribbon recipe

Yields about 24 pieces

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup peanut butter

Directions:

1. In a bowl of an electric mixer add the mashed potatoes and 2 cups of the powdered sugar.
2. Add in 1 to 2 more cups of powdered sugar until the mixture is stiff and dry.
3. Sprinkle a counter with powdered sugar and roll out the mixture till it is about 1/2-inch thick.
4. Once rolled out, spread with peanut butter and roll up tightly like you would a jelly roll.
5. Let the rolled mixture cool for about an hour to stiffen up.
6. Once set up, cut off the ends and then slice into 2 to 3-inch pieces. Keep cool when not eating.

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