Survivor Philippines Girls

Watch it starting September 15 on GMA-7 Telebabad after Ako si Kim Sam Soon!Anna Charisse Yacapin (Smart Babe)^
Chevyline "Chev" Macias (Bisayang Palaban)^
Jervy "Patani" Daño (Ang Yaya)^
Kristina "Kaye" Alipio (The Model)^
Leona Rica "Nikki" Dacullo (Call Center Cutie)^
Maria Nona "Niña" Ortiz (Sporty Mom)^
Veronica "Vern" Domingo (Taekwondo Champion)^
Vevherly Gador (Farmer Girl)^
Zita Ortiga (Ang Labandera)^

All photos from GMA-7

Marimar

This month, Philippine TV's GMA-7 broadcasts the remake of the 90's RPN-9 primetime hit, Marimar. Reprising the role of Thalia is relative newcomer Marian Rivera whose pictures are shown below.
She's so pretty! She was last seen on TV as the mother of super-powered kids, the Super Twins; and before that, in an afternoon drama co-produced by a Malaysian broadcasting company. More information about her on igma.tv.

The new Fantine

Lea Salonga performs the role of Fantine in the Broadway revival of Les Miserables a little earlier than scheduled- March 2 rather than March 6. Here are pictures from rehearsals. You may also view a video of her being interviewed at the Broadhurst theater house during rehearsals with clips of her singing some of the Fantine parts. If you're ever on Broadway, catch Lea as Fantine in Les Miserables, playing at least until the summer.

DREAMGIRLS' Jennifer Hudson

She does look healthy enough to reprise the role of Effie originated by Jennnifer Holiday in the Broadway musical. I'm not sure if she had to gain more weight for the movie version. The reviews generally praise her performance, even going as far as outshining everyone else. Her photos above are from a concert she did last December (photos by Mark Rupp for Broadway World) except for the first one which is from the movie showing in Manila soon. I'll be lining up for it.

Here's an article about how Beyonce and her family are furious at and giving the cold-shoulder to Jennifer Hudson.

Lea Salonga

Lea Salonga adds another feather in her cap as she becomes the first Asian to play Fantine in the revival of the long-running musical Les Miserables in Broadway. She replaces Rent original cast member Daphne Rubin-Vega amidst news of Daphne's unconvential portrayal of the tragic character Fantine. Daphne was initially reported to only take a leave of absence from the show as she handles another commitment but more recently, reports say Lea will be on the show up until the summer and that Daphne won't be coming back. Below are photos (for Broadway World by Mark Rupp) of some of the current cast.

DREAMGIRLS' Jennifer Holiday

Jennifer Holiday was truly outstanding in her performance in this musical. What a coincidence that another woman with the same initials of J. H. is playing the part of Effie in the movie version that started showing in the United States late last year. Jennifer Hudson, a finalist in the season of American Idol won by Fantasia Barrino, has very large shoes to fill. But the buzz is going that she might win a few acting awards too.

Song Hye Gyo

She's reaal purrty! The star of Korean series Endless Love, All In, and Full House, Song Hye Gyo has a New year's message to her fans:

(translated) Hello, how are you? This is Song Hye Gyo. It is now 2007...happy new year everyone. In this new year, I hope that all of your wishes will come true. Currently I've been working hard filming the movie "HwangJini." The movie should be expected to be released possibly in April or May. Since I've been working really hard on it, please show me lots of love and support when it premieres. Like the previous year, I'll continue to work hard and try to be the best actress possible. Please stay healthy and happy. Thank you.

For more information on and pictures of the beautiful actress, visit songhyegyo.net from which the above quote is taken.