What's What "Buffy" & "Angel" News, Movies, & TV Appearances
------- April 21st, 2001~ UPN Gets Buffy Buffy & Angel are splitting up. Completely. Yesterday, Fox and UPN signed a $102 million deal for the next 44 new episodes (2 years) of "Buffy: the Vampire Slayer". This amounts to $2.3 million per episode (the amount that meets the minimum of Fox's demand of $2.3-2.6 per episode) for the 6th season & $2.35 million for each episode for the 7th season (which is likely to be the final season). UPN President Dean Valentine revealed the reasons behind the Buffy buy. He commented: "We are incredibly pleased to have Buffy the Vampire Slayer on UPN, not just because it is one of the best shows on the air and represents a new era in UPN's life and direction, but more importantly because Joss Whedon is one of the finest writers and producers in television. Our main motivation for pursuing Buffy so aggressively was to be in business with Joss and with 20th...and we're very pleased to have that opportunity." The WB's final offer was $1.8 million per episode, an increase of only $.2 million per episode from their initial renewal offer, but the offer was retracted a week ago with a statement that the WB felt like "pawns" when they weren't contacted by Fox for a month. Perhaps the situation was more heated then that, as 'Buffy' representatives, like Joss Whedon, had a turn in support for the WB after now former WB CEO Jamie Kellner called the show "a teen drama". Whedon executive producer Joss Whedon publicly criticized Kellner for his belittling comments about the show, Kellner responded "it's not our number-one show". An insider for Fox says: "The studio did everything it could to keep the show at the WB. But the more Jamie opens his mouth, the more he says things like 'this is a niche show,' 'maybe we should replenish our schedule every year.' We started to realize our vision for the show was not the same as (the WB)." The WB made further (perhaps unprofessional) comments on the UPN buy, claiming that is was no coincidence that the buy came after the FCC loosened restrictions on network ownership, making it possible for an impending merger between UPN co-owner Chris-Craft & Fox. "Twentieth Television has made an inauspicious decision for the television industry by taking one of their own programs off of a nonaffiliated network and placing it on a network in which they have a large vested interested, through their acquisition of Chris-Craft and public comments that Fox and UPN are discussing ways to merge,' said the WB's statement of the UPN buy, "The WB will continue to develop successful, innovative programming that delivers a high concentration of young adults and teens. We wish Sarah, Joss and David Greenwalt well." I guess the WB will have to do that right at home, considering 'Buffy's spinoff 'Angel' is still under contract to air on the WB, & that Joss and Greenwalt are the executive producers of that show. 'Angel', which had initial ratings just above 'Buffy's ratings, has taken a large hit in ratings this season due to the Fox network's 'Dark Angel'. Without the 8 PM lead-in of 'Buffy', industry insiders speculate that 'Angel' won't survive. Of course, should that happen, the new contract for 'Buffy' between UPN & Fox provides that UPN will pickup the show should it be canceled. 'Buffy's final new episode on the frog airs May 22. ------- April 19th, 2001~ Eonline's 100th Episode Buffy Special I read over this special collection of interviews taken by Eonline in the middle of the 100th episode shooting & I thought I'd post some of the highlights of the conversations: First, Sarah Michelle Gellar, then Nick Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, Toni Head, James Marsters, & da da DA Joss Whedon (Michelle Trachtenberg was also interviewed but they asked her really stock & boring questions) (These interviews are very edited). Joss in particular gives some good hints about the 100th episode. Sarah Michelle Gellar Q: When you first started Buffy, did you ever think you'd come this far? A: You try not to even think about that. They almost shut us down when we were doing the pilot. We were the little show nobody thought could... "In my opinion, Buffy and Angel should be together forever, but I understand for storytelling purposes, it's not to be. Q:When the show ends, would you be upset if Joss didn't pair up Buffy and Angel again? A: I would be terribly upset, but Joss doesn't necessarily believe in happy endings, so it probably wouldn't happen anyway. I'm not getting my hopes up. Q: Speaking of endings, you're shooting the final episode right now. Don't suppose you can give us any hints... A: Absolutely not. I can tell you it's an unbelievably moving and beautiful tribute to the character, to the show. It's a beautiful episode. There's an ending I think nobody will ever expect--and nobody will believe. Even I couldn't believe it when I read it. Nick Brendon Q: Any hints on what's coming up for Xander? A: Hang on a sec. Hey, Joss! Can I tell them what's coming up? Yes? Okay, Joss is drunk. He's drunk on love. (To answer your question) No, but Xander, he's growing up. I think things are being set up; there's some stuff coming up that's shocking. And that's all I can say because, um, Joss is right behind me. Otherwise I'd tell you everything. Alyson Hannigan "I would totally love this show even if I weren't on it." Q: You and Amber Benson (Tara) have great chemistry together. Have the romantic scenes with her been challenging at all? A: But I never had a problem with it, because it was handled with such grace. But it was Amber's first time on the show, and it quickly became 'Okay, this is a relationship' and I don't think she was expecting it. I had a little more warning, and I would trust Joss with my life. I'd never doubt his ability to tell a story and make it nice and romantic. (Source says: It seems Aly's still dating Alexis, by the way.) Q: Do you ever miss working with Seth Green? A: I do, but I'm just so angry that I'm like, Seth, pshaw, whatever! But really, I was devastated when he left. Toni Head "And you're working on a CD. Yes, it comes out around September. A record company said they would be interested in doing this joint album with me, and my first reaction was, Oh, no--actor in his 40s releases album, and we put it on the shelf in between William Shatner and David Hasselhoff. But I figured it was safe enough if I made it an album of working with people I respect and love. So, Joss has contributed a song; James is on the album, and so are Amber and Alyson." James Marsters Q: Tell us about the 100th-episode cake cutting. How great did it feel to get all that praise? A: Everyone was talking about us, and most of us were standing back there, staring at our shoes. We're like, Okay, it sure would be fun to go back and tell a story now. It's always good to know that your work is appreciated, but for all of us, it's a little uncomfortable getting all that attention. Q: It's a weird time for Buffy because there are the contracts and negotiations. Does that put a damper on the 100th? A: No. The fact that the powers that be are fighting over us doesn't make it any less sweet at all. Are you kidding me? We're busting Hollywood wide open 'cause we rock. Q: Are you ever allowed to tan? A: No, no, no. I live three blocks from the beach, and I can't go there till twilight. I live like a real vampire. Although I am too white for my girlfriend, so I think I may tan this summer. Joss "Da Man" Whedon Q: When you start a season, do you know where the story will end up? A: Yes, very much. We leave a lot of big gaping holes--for inspiration to hopefully show up at some point--but we map out seasons very specifically, particularly for Buffy. We try to figure out where she'll be. We actually knew what was going to happen at the end of this season in the middle of the third season. And we pretty much know everything that's going to happen in season six already. Q: Awesome. Tell us everything. A: [Laughs.] I can only tell you this much: Every season has an arc, a sort of unifying theme. Last year it was the liberation of college and how it fractures you as a group and as a person. This year was about family and identity and Buffy being a slayer. And next year I refer to as "Oh, Grow Up." It's about realizing that we're young adults, and now we're making choices like our parents did, and we're just as bad at it as they were. Q: What about the upcoming season finale? Any hints there? A: Obviously, we're bringing the whole Glory, Dawn, Ben, Key, Buffy, Sister, Slayer, what-does-it-mean thing to a head. And we're going to have a big-ass apocalyptic battle, because that's what we do. And there's going to be some death. (Source says: See, guys, I'm thinking Xander.) Q: Do you ever think the show's title has deterred some people from checking it out? A: Yes, I think that's probably true. The network always said it would be a problem and desperately wanted to change the title. I believe that anyone who isn't open to a show with this title isn't invited to the party. I made the title very specifically to say, "This is what it is." It wears itself on its sleeve. It's sophomoric, it's silly, it's comedy-horror-action; it's all there in the title. Having the metaphor to work with makes the show better, and having the silly title makes the show cooler. At least to me. Q: Do you enjoy doing crossovers, or do you do them to appease the fans? A: The first one, in which Angel got human and they made love and it was all beautiful and then they had to forget about it--that one was great. The second one was a bear. It was the whole Faith thing, and we just didn't know what it was about. And Sarah herself was like, "I don't want to go on if it's just a ratings-sweeps thing. Because it'll diffuse my presence." It was hard to figure it out, and then when I had to write the last scene, when he says, "I love you, but goodbye," it wasn't working. And then I realized he has to yell at her and tell her to go home and get out of his life. We did the romantic one; we needed to do the painful one, where breaking up makes you evil to each other. And as soon as we did that, it was glorious. On the coming strike..."And quite honestly, to me it looks like a big vacation. Because I haven't had one since Buffy started, and I desperately need to rest. So, there's this little part of me that's like, 'If we must strike--solidarity, brothers! I'll be in my bed'." Q: How do you feel about fans starting a "Get Buffy an Emmy" campaign? A: I love the campaign. I believe they should throw their hearts and souls into it--and possibly quit their day jobs to work on it more. [Laughs.] I've only heard a little bit about this, but "The Body" was a very personal episode for me, and I didn't expect it to reach people the way it did. So, sure, it'd be nice to have an Emmy, but I think we're probably a ways away from that. But that doesn't mean people shouldn't quit their day jobs. ------- April 17, 2001~ Gellar Engaged Publicists for the actors confirmed today that Sarah Michelle Gellar and Preddie Prinze, Jr. were engaged on Friday. No wedding date has been set. ------- April 17th, 2001~ Eonline's 100th Episode Buffy Special Check out this online feature from Eonline ------- April 12th, 2001~ The Source Offers An Interesting Read I came up with some really good stuff, ideas for and about the Buffy season finale, the great mystery that has dogged Buffy fans for 2 years. They'll remain at the top of the That's My Take section until the finale airs. I'll modify them as my crazy theories are proved wrong... If you want to hear some seriously good conclusions (what's that sound? it's the sound of me blowing my own horn), read THAT'S MY TAKE ------- April 12, 2001~ April Fools: No 'Angel' Cast in Buffy Finale In an attempt to keep the details around Buffy's season finale secret, 2 rumors were planted. One, that I reported to you, that the 'Angel' cast will also be in the finale. The second about a certain actor guest starring in the role of an underworld god. Now there are claims that the actor is not in the finale nor is the 'Angel' cast. Sorry, guys. I was wondering why the WB claimed 6 all-new episodes of 'Angel' started April 17th. Although not publicly admitted to, I think the spoiler that Xander was on Angel's "Disharmony" & that the Host would tell him he'd save humanity was planted by the same people. & the one that said Anya was going to get offered her powers back & take them because of her fear of death (which would leave very open the possibility of Xander dying in the season finale). The titles of the Angel finale, yes there is one, is "There's No Place Like Plrtz" & the Buffy finale is "The Gift". The strange and suspicious thing that Wanda from Eonline, who busted our 2-cast finale bubble after viewing Buffy's "The Gift", either in part or whole (leaving open the possibility of a fake episode promo or short presentation), claims that there will be NO guest stars in the season finale except for the actress who plays The First Slayer. Well, isn't that a little spoilery in itself? &, um, you're telling me Clare Kramer, Glory, isn't in it? Probably just an oversight on her part that Glory isn't a cast member. & Ben isn't. & the minions. & the thousands of Knights of Byzantium. & Tara. ------- April 12th, 2001~ Final, for real this time, Episode Titles *Note: These episodes begin airing on April 17th. There will be no repeats in-between them. Buffy Season 5 Episode # 17- "Forever" (with guest star David Boreanaz; Marti Noxon directs) Episode # 18- "Intervention" Episode #19- "Tough Love" Episode #20- "Spiral" Episode #21- "The Weight of the World" Episode #22- "The Gift" Angel Season 2 Episode # 17- "Disharmony" (with guest stars Alyson Hannigan, & Mercedes McNab) Episode # 18- "Dead End" Episode # 19- "Belonging" Episode #20- "Over the Rainbow" Episode #21- "Through the Looking Glass" Episode #22- "There's No Place Like Plrtz" ------- April 5th, 2001~ Joss Speaks Out about 'Dark Angel' Joss Whedon spoke to TV Guide Online this week, expressing his anger over the Fox network's decision last fall to put James Cameron's 'Dark Angel' in 'Angel''s time slot, while both are produced by 20th Century Fox. "The fact that they put ('Dark Angel') on opposite a show that they produce, thereby hurting it ('Angel'), shows that they really don't care. Their big picture is clearly so big that whatever I think and whatever I am doing doesn't matter, and I resent that. But I am not the 'Big Picture Guy.' I'm just making my shows... (I don't put myself into the matter). I have no control over that. I am not someone that can say, 'Work your schedule.'...Ultimately I am not going to ask them to do anything as long as I get to make my shows, the people who want to watch them will." Joss also commented on his unhappiness with the title of Cameron's show, its similarity to his show's name: "I watch (Dark Angel), and her name is not 'Angel,' and she's not an angel, so why the **** would they call it that?" Well, Joss, my friend, for the same damn reason the WB & Fox couldn't quickly resolve their bidding issues, the same reason Fox keeps trying to shut down 'Buffy' fan websites- hell- the same reason they put 'Ally McBeal' against poor ratings-hurting 2cd season 'Buffy'- they're BITTER that they didn't pick 'Buffy' up to begin with! It's a phenomena & they're pissed it's not theirs to show. ------- April 3rd, 2001~ Buffy's Centennial: A 2-Hour Event With Both Casts!!! Very exciting news comes today that the 100th episode of "Buffy" (titled "Centennial"), this year's season finale will be a 2-hour movie to air on May 22. This finale, although technically a "Buffy" episode, is actually a "Buffy"/"Angel" event with both the casts of "Buffy" & "Angel" pinned against "Buffy"'s badguy of the season, Glory (hey, if "Buffy" gets sold off at least they can say they had a big last blast together). A season usually has 22 episodes, where as this season, "Angel" will have only 21. This answers some questions I had about the finales. 1) How are we going to be able to watch an "Angel" after the "Buffy" finale that was at least 730 days in the making? 2) How can "Angel"'s finale top "Epiphany" considering it closes all the plot of the season (Answer is, they don't. It's over. It's all about "Buffy" now.) 3) What's so great about this much anticipated and hyped forever-changing season finale of "Buffy"? It's gonna' be a bigger blowout then GD2, baby! Who's excited? ------- April 3rd, 2001~ Final Version of Remaining Episode Titles *Note: These episodes begin airing on April 17th. There will be no repeats in-between them. Buffy Season 5 Episode # 17- "Forever" (with guest star David Boreanaz; Marti Noxon directs) Episode # 18- "Intervention" Episode #19- "Tough Love" Episode #20- "Spiral" Episode #21- "The Weight of the World" Episode #22 (overall episode #100), the finale- "Centennial" Angel Season 2 Episode # 17- "Disharmony" (with guest stars Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, & Mercedes McNab) Episode # 18- "Dead End" Episode # 19- "Belonging" Episode #20- "Over the Rainbow" Episode #21- "Through the Looking Glass" Episode #22- None (in lieu of 'Buffy''s "Centennial"; includes 'Angel' cast) ------- March 29, 2001~ Buffy Goes Animated Fox has ordered up 26 episodes of 'Buffy: the Animated Series' to begin airing as soon as February 2002 on the Fox Family Channel and on the Fox network's 'Fox Kids' mornings. The show will focus on the core Scooby Gang in their high school days. It is unknown whether the 'Buffy' cast willl be providing voices, but is is known who'll be working on the project, Joss Whedon. Joss commented: "The animated series is an opportunity to take our characters back to the beginning of their adulthood and tell the stories we never got to tell about Buffy and her friends... It's a chance to recapture those years of heartache and confusion and do the stories we never could afford to do in live action." ------- March 28, 2001~ WB matches UPN offer, Head Speaks Out The WB has reportedly matched UPN's offer for 'Buffy', but the amount is below Fox's asking price of $2.4-2.6 million. Therefore, no offer has been accepted by Fox from any party to date. The only other new mentionable about the bidding war is that there is one person involved in 'Buffy' who thinks that the bidding war is needed, Tony Head. Commenting about the current situation, Head remarked: ''(The cast of 'Buffy' is) extremely fortunate, but on the scale of things our cast doesn't get much... and there have been times when I've felt a little more money in the kitty would help the show, such as when we had the mayor turn into a serpent. You look at those special effects and go, 'eh (as in, is that it?)''' ------- March 27, 2001~ Updated Upcoming Episode Titles Buffy Season 5 Episode # 17- "Forever" Episode # 18- "Intervention" (with guest star David Boreanaz) Episode #19- "Tough Love" Episode #20- "Spiral" Episode #21- "The Weight of the World" Angel Season 2 Episode # 17- "Disharmony" (with guest stars Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, & Mercedes McNab) Episode # 18- "Dead End" Episode # 19- "Belonging" Episode #20- "Over the Rainbow" ------- March 22, 2001~ UPN Makes a Serious Bid for 'Buffy' The UPN network, within the last few days, has proven that they are very interested in adding 'Buffy' to their lineup by putting forward to Fox, what insiders call, "a significant offer". This offer has to be higher then what the WB last offered, $1.6 million per episode, but exactly how much above this amount UPN offered is publicly unknown. Industry insiders say a UPN buy is unlikely, that the Fox network is likely to put forward a good offer soon, and that the WB is still updating bids. Most likely Fox will negotiate a contract with a network, like ABC, & the WB will match the offer, taking up the sixth season contract. Another new development in this story is that in the past week, Joss Whedon came forward to criticize Jamie Kellner and the WB for calling 'Buffy' a "teen drama". Joss, along with me, gets offended by such a shallow and false definition of the show. ------- March 22, 2001~ Updated Upcoming Episode Titles Buffy Season 5 Episode # 17- "Forever" Episode # 18- "Intervention" (with guest star David Boreanaz) Episode #19- "Tough Love" Episode #20- "Spiral" Angel Season 2 Episode # 17- "Disharmony" (with guest stars Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, & Mercedes McNab) Episode # 18- "Dead End" Episode # 19- "Belonging" ------- March 7, 2001~ 'Buffy' Bidding Wars Update From what's been reported, we know that the WB reportedly offered Fox $1.6 million per episode, & that Fox wants $2.3-2.6. As of May 1, the deadline has expired for the networks to negotiate a contract. Fox is now able to find a higher bidder elsewhere (although, once a price is met, the WB still has the right to match the price {as long as they're willing to pay what ABC or UPN (ha!) or the Fox network is willing to pay, the show will stay on the WB, but there will be bad blood.}) Nothing public has happened since the deadline, but I have some more details about comments parties involved have made. The WB has said that there was "no deadline" for them, that they've given their final offer & it's up to Fox to take it. The WB has offered Fox a deal that covers "all the revenue that the show generates" minus costs needed to support the series. Fox wants more for JOSS. Fox says: "We feel very strongly that Joss Whedon, who has given five years of his life towards Buffy - and helped build and brand the WB in the process( should get a financial reward)... (Joss) has earned the right to a network license fee that not only reflects his commitment and contribution to the series and the network, but would also enable him to produce the show at a level to which we believe he should be entitled." Is this backwash from the season 3 postponments or just a network line? What does Joss Whedon think of Fox's desire to receive him recognition? I don't know, but I can guess. Especially because he seems to speak on behalf of the WB: "I think it's 50/50 (that 'Buffy' will stay on the WB), but I'm optimistic that it will fall our way (to the WB). We love the show, we want the show back, and we think we made a very fair offer." He added: "I'm not optimistic that anybody in any suit will be happy with anything. I think the WB will not reach an amicable arrangement, but I believe they will reach an arrangement... and I believe whatever happens, I will make the show." Joss also commented on 'Angel', if 'Buffy''s spinoff would survive without its mama: "I don't think it would help Angel, but I believe Angel can stand on its own. I'm not particularly worried — I'm never particularly worried. I'm either going to make the show or they're going to tell me to stop. As long as I'm trying hard to make it good, I don't notice anything else." ------- Updated Upcoming Episode Titles Buffy Season 5 Episode # 17- "Forever" Episode # 18- "Intervention" (with guest star David Boreanaz) Episode #19- "Tough Love" Angel Season 2 Episode # 17- "Disharmony" (with guest stars Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, & Mercedes McNab) Episode # 18- "Dead End" Episode # 19- "Belonging" ------- Simultaneous Actor & Writer Strike Could Put all TV Shows Out of Commission The Screen Actor's Guild & the Writer's Guild are planning a strike if their demands of higher wages aren't met. May 1st, the Writer's Guild contract expires, which means they are free to strike after that point. Late July is when the Screen Actor's Guild contract expires. This means that not only are 'Buffy' & 'Angel' in danger of not getting their new seasons started on time, but that all TV shows that use writers & actors (all non-reality shows) will be on strike until they get higher wages- which could be an indefinite about of time. Who knows. 'Buffy' usually starts filming for new seasons in late July. 'Angel' usually a little sooner, but with the writers on strike before the actors are, there will be no material to start if the strike goes on up until around June & July. This is unlike the commercial strike, where no Screen Actors Guild actors could be in commercials, but a full strike where no actors can be in anything- movies included. If the strike lasts a long period of time, TV will be filled with reality shows like Survivor & Temptation Island. A strike will take place, let's hope demands are met so the Buffyverse can keep on spinning. ------- Fox Says 'Buffy' DVDs are on the Way Cinescape magazine is reporting that Fox says the complete first season of 'Buffy' on DVD will be out by the end of this year in the US. ------- Possibility of a 'Buffy' Move from the WB to ABC, Fox, or other bidders is Becoming Greater The companies have tried to work things out. The WB has reportedly offered Fox $1.6 million per episode for 'Buffy' Season 6, which is an increase of 60% from what they paid for it this season. Seems reasonable to me, but not to Fox. Fox's demand is for the price tag of $2.3-2.5 per episode, so that they instantly get back full production costs plus a little extra (yeah, like they need it. Christ, it goes into syndication in a few months, they're going to make a KILLING with it then. Greedy Bastards {sorry, I should be unbiased, but that's the way I see the situation}). The important thing is that tomorrow, Thursday, March 1, 2001, is the deadline for the two companies to work out a deal. After that date, if the WB still hasn't met Fox's demands, Fox is legally able to go outside of the WB & seek a buyer for the contract elsewhere. I'm not too sure the Fox TV network would be the first bidder, in my opinion, it would be ABC who would most likely pick up the contract. The smart thing for the WB to do in order to assure that 'Buffy' stayed on the WB would be to meet Fox's demands before tomorrow, but, industry insiders say, that that is very unlikely to happen. I just want to explain my negative attitude toward Fox's demands. It's not that I don't want 'Buffy' to receive the money it deserves, it's just that A) it's a huge, unheard of increase, & I think Fox is pushing the tag up so high so the WB won't sign on & they can go to ABC. That couple million an episode is not as big a deal to the big ABC network as it is to little WB. Let's face it, it's still an upstart company. B) I really believe that 'Buffy' on ABC will devalue the show. They're going to classify it wrong, & won't get it's dues. C) We won't get to watch 'Buffy' & 'Angel' on top of eachother & Buffy/Angel crossovers will be rare, if ever done (David E. Kelley could talk the networks into it, but Joss doesn't have that Q). I just think it's a bad thing. But, I could be wrong. On one hand, being on a big network could allow the show to step out of that little network pouch they've been in & maybe they'll actually get the ratings they deserve. On the other hand, the ratings are way more competitive & if they don't get the ratings ABC hopes or even enough for ABC when it comes down to it, they will get canned instantly. & if that happens, I think the WB will tell Fox to go screw themselves if they try to negotiate a new contract. Things are getting bitter out there. The WB & Fox could remain at odds for some time to come. ------- Upcoming Episode Titles Buffy Season 5 Episode # 17- "Forever" Episode # 18- "Intervention" (with guest star David Boreanaz) Angel Season 2 Episode # 17- "Disharmony" (with guest stars Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, & Mercedes McNab) Episode # 18- "Dead End" Episode # 19- "Belonging" Spoilers about the Episodes, Not Too Major Apparently, David Boreanaz was supposed to guest star in "The Body", but his role was expanded & added to "Intervention" instead. Starting with Angel's "Disharmony" & ending with Buffy's "Intervention" is the season's second, but first real, Buffy/Angel Crossover. Willow & Xander go to L.A. to inform Angel of Joyce's death, but can't find him because of the move from the burnt out building to the hotel. They end up at Caritas where the Host reveals that Xander is going to save mankind {which most likely ties into the BIG BROTHER thing & has to do with this big blow-out 100th episode season finale of 'Buffy'}. It is Harmony, who has relocated to L.A., who ends up letting Angel know about Joyce. Then, for the Buffy part of the crossover, Angel comforts Buffy over her mother's death (episodes to come deal with Joyce's death making it a focal point of the season) & also confronts Spike over his love for Buffy. Episode 17 of Buffy is written by Marti Noxon, & it's more about Dawn & Buffy dealing with Joyce's death. Episode 19 of Angel, "Belonging", focuses on Cordelia. ------- Interview with The Host I had to put a link to this Horror Online article about "Angel"'s the Host, Andy Hallett (I love this guy!), where he tells the remarkable story of how he landed the "Angel" gig during a fated outing to a Karaoke bar. Oh yeah, did I mention, he had just happened to invite an old college buddy who, in turn, invited her brother-in-law, Joss Whedon. Read the article Here. ------- Brendon's Gonna Need Something Blue: Brendon to Wed Nicholas Brendon's official website reports that Nick's getting married! He proposed to girlfriend Tressa DiFiglia (co-star in another everpostponed release flick Pinata) on their second anniversary. In related news that I don't think I ever reported when I heard it possibly a year ago, rumors are a flying in Hollywood that Sarah Michelle Gellar and boyfriend Freddie Prinze Jr. are engaged, but that she wants to keep it a secret as to not make herself appear unattainable to her male fans (open letter to SMG droolers: do you have hope that one day you'll meet SMG & she'll fall in your arms? Then, seek help immediately). If the rumors are true (which I don't count on, but which I also don't discount), a secret ceremony would be likely, and the couple could possibly even be wed now! ------- Knocked Around Again: Knockaround Guys Postponed for the Upteenth Time Seth Green's Knockaround Guys release has been pushed back yet again. The movie is now scheduled to open Spring 2001. Nicholas Brendon's Psycho Beach Party is slated to arrive in video stores soon. ------- Four More Years: Whedon Signs New Deal with Fox "Buffy" & "Angel" creator and executive producer Joss Whedon has signed on to a reported $20 million deal with 20th Century Fox Television. The deal entails that Joss work for Fox for four years. All this means, I'm inferring, is that Joss will be making new TV shows with 20th Century Fox as the main producer, just like "Buffy" & "Angel" are made now (& it may mean that Joss has signed on to make "Buffy" & "Angel" for four more seasons, but I don't think that's what it is). Joss has a yet unnamed pilot rumored to be picked up within the next month, most likely by the Fox Network (& tell me they're not bitter about not picking up "Buffy" in '97), but also maybe by the ABC network, who are also very interested in Joss' work. Joss is quoted as saying "I have a lot more (shows) to make, so I'm wicked psyched" despite the fact that within the last year he was quoted to say "I'm really bone tired" from working on both "Buffy" & "Angel". Another attribute of the new deal is that Joss is free to create/produce film projects outside of 20th Century Fox where as his earlier deal required that he only work on films with Fox. His old contract expires May 1st. ------- Gellar Says She'll Only Slay on the WB E!Online's Wanda recently asked Sarah Michelle Gellar to comment on the WB/Fox bidding war. Gellar commented: "I will stay on 'Buffy' if, and only if, 'Buffy' stays on the WB. And you know what? Print that. My bosses are going to kill me, but print that. I want them to know." She added: "The WB has been so supportive, such a great network over the past four years. It feels like home. I don't want the show to move, because I feel that we belong on the WB. It's where our fans are. If Buffy leaves the WB, I'm out." As far as I'm aware, Gellar's contract was a standard 5-season contract set in place when the show began, which would mean she would be free to leave the show this year. However, days later, Gellar took back her earlier comment saying: "I just said it in passing, and it was only meant to show my appreciation and support for the WB. But Fox has been very good to me too. I intend to stay with 'Buffy' no matter what." Okay, Gellar, the "Buffy" fans that have started to hate you since Boreanaz moved on up loved you again for a fleeting moment. ------- Maybe Next Year: SMG loses the Golden Globe At least she was nominated. Sela Ward, star of 'Once and Again' & TV veteran, took home the award for Best Actress in a TV Drama at the 58th Annual Golden Globe Awards. I've never seen the show, so I can't comment on whether Gellar was robbed or not, but I believe that Gellar deserves this award for her extremely hard & groundbreaking work on "Buffy" & it's a travesty that it took this long for her to get nominated for either an Emmy or a Golden Globe & it's even worse that she didn't win it 'cause she damn-well deserved it. ------- Gellar to star in live-action film version of Scooby Doo "Buffy" writer Doug Petrie confirmed in a recent interview that Sarah Michelle Gellar is signed to star in a live-action version of the cartoon classic TV series "Scooby Doo". Also signed on to do the movie are, I'm sorry, some really horrible actors that continually get cast for some reason- SMG's boyfriend, Freddie Prinze Jr., & Scream star Matthew Lillard- who star as Fred & Shaggy. The two also starred together in one of the worst movies ever made, Wing Commander. Gellar & Prinze starred together in I Know What You Did Last Summer. Prinze co-stars with ex-"Buffy" cast member Marc Blucas, known to the fans as Riley Finn, in the upcoming film Summer Catch due out in theaters sometime in or around Summer 2001. Prinze plays Fred & SMG plays Daphne. ------- Upcoming Episode Titles Buffy Season 5 Episode #12- "Checkpoint" Episode #13- "Blood Ties" Episode #14- "Crush" Episode #15- "I Was Made To Love You" Episode #16- "The Body" Angel Season 2 Episode #12- "Blood Money", Julie Lee guest stars otherwise known as Anne, Lily, &/or Chanterelle from "Buffy" Episode #13- "Happy Anniversary" Episode #14- "The Thin Dead Line" Episode #15- "Reprise" Episode #16- "Epiphany" ------- A War is Brewing over the Fate of "Buffy" on the WB WB CEO Jamie Kellner and Fox Television's Sandy Grushow are having a war of words in the press over price negotiations for "Buffy: The Vampire Slayer". The WB currently pays Fox just under a million dollar per episode to air "Buffy", Fox argues that the show generates a high advertising revenue and that the show is worth more than their getting. The tension between these two's public comments on the matter have gone from unsaid threats to now open hostility. With Grushow responding to one of Kellner's comments with: "They don't have wheelbarrows at the WB, they have Mercedes. Was (WB publicity exec VP) Brad Turell whistling 'God Bless America' behind Jamie when he gave that speech?" Grushow added that he "had no intention of discussing the issue today, but I was responding to Jamie, who decided to make it a public debate." Kellner, responded saying, "It's a little late for Sandy to try to push the genie back in the bottle. He should have declined comment two years ago when he started the public debate on Buffy's future." So, yeah, it's pretty much a step up from Jerry Springer (& a little unprofessional I might say). In all likelihood "Buffy" will remain on the WB these final years (Joss is gonna' stop after 7 seasons & we're halfway through 5 now {unless he changes his mind}) & there's no need at all to worry that "Buffy" will become unavailable to the public for its 6th season- afterall ABC wouldn't mind snatching it, but I really think the WB will make an offer that pleases Fox for as Grushow commented, "If, in fact, the WB is prepared to make a 'fair' proposal to 20th Century Fox Television, then there is no reason to believe that this show isn't going to continue on the WB's air for many years to come." ------- My Bloody Valentine David Boreanaz's Valentine opens February 2, & no it's not a love story. Visit the website. ------- Don't Knock it Until it Opens Seth Green's infamous flick, Knockaround Guys (yes, the one he left "Buffy" early for), hushedly opens on February 12th. I haven't seen one promo for it. Have you? ------- Season 3 Box Set is Here!!!! Buy the brand-new Season 3 Box Set of "Buffy: the Vampire Slayer" VHS videos! The box set includes: "Bad Girls", "Consequences", "Enemies", "Earshot", & "Graduation Day pt. 1 & 2". Clearly, they chose to focus on the fall of Faith, & also added the postponed Season 3 episodes. Sorry, no new footage (or originally intended footage) in GD2. We'll have to wait for the ever-postponed DVDs for that, folks. ------- A Way to Make it Last Longer Jan. 9, an all-new episode of "Buffy" will air followed by a repeat "Angel". The next week, Jan. 16, "Buffy" will air a repeat, and "Angel" will air the all-new, "Redefinition". Don't get confussed and miss an all-new episode! ------- Strangeness & Happy Holidays! The Source is here to wish you a happy holiday! & also to bring episode news of weirdness. On January 9th, a new "Buffy" episode will air, followed by a repeat "Angel". Buffy's "Triangle" will air next to "Angel"'s repeat of the Joss Whedon directed episode, "Untouched". But, the important thing is that the winter break of repeats will soon be over (wasn't really even a break this year. 2 weeks of repeats. All-new episodes on both shows. 2 repeats. A new "Buffy" with an old "Angel"), for one show anyway (& not the one I'm most interested in). 2 days before that, for HBO viewers, the TV show "Oz" will air its new mid-season season (it usually airs 8 episodes a year starting in July & doesn't air any new episodes until the following July). I love this show! It's about what happens inside a prison & it's very real-life, as opposed to most films depiction of prison. I urge you to watch & support it. It has some Buffyverse traits that Buffy fans may enjoy such as unconventionality & constant plot surprises. It's very gritty, though, & for very mature audiences (there is constant violence & male frontal nudity). LOL. Sidenote, is that "Buffy" movie star Luke Perry is starring on the show this season. ------- Upcoming Episode Titles Buffy Season 5 Episode #11- "Triangle" Episode #12- "Checkpoint" Angel Season 2 Episode #11- "Redefinition" Episode #12- "Blood Money", Julie Lee guest stars otherwise known as Anne, Lily, &/or Chanterelle from "Buffy" Episode #13- "Happy Anniversary" These episodes begin to air in January & may go into February (#13 MIGHT). These are probably the final titles, but titles could change by airdate. ------- Break Out the Champagne!!! Sarah Michelle Gellar has been nominated for a Golden Globe award under the Best Actress in a Drama category for TV. Way to go! She deserved it years ago, although her work this year is not the stuff I would nominate her for (I think she's been slacking). Actually I take that back, her work in "Restless" kicked ass & maybe that's the tape they sent in for Golden Globe consideration. This is good news, buddy, & means that the cast & crew of "Buffy" are getting well-deserved recognition. -------
Valentine with David Boreanaz- open now Soul Survivors with Eliza Dushku- opens March 16 Knockaround Guys with Seth Green- spring 2001 Josie and the Pussycats- coming soon America's Sweethearts with Seth Green- out 2001 Rat Race with Seth Green- out 2001 Beyond City Limits with Aly Hannigan & Alexis Denisof- coming soon Psycho Beach Party with Nicholas Brendon- video stores soon Pinata with Nicholas Brendon- complete & waiting for release Summer Catch with Marc Blucas- post production Metal God with Tony Head- post production The It Girl with SMG- post production Harvard Man with SMG- post production Scooby Doo with SMG- filming American Pie 2 with Alyson Hannigan- filming The New Guy with Eliza Dusku- 2001 City by the Sea with Eliza Dushku- production Gold Coast with Marc Blucas We Were Soldiers Once ... and Young with Marc Blucas Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back with Marc Blucas & Eliza Dusku Sticks & Stones with Glenn Quinn First Light with David Boreanaz- yet to be filmed							Upcoming Movies
TV appearances