This weekend, The Vampire Diaries cast braved a serious Georgia snowstorm to meet hundreds of their passionate fans at a Hot Topic-sponsored event in Southern California.

The whole evening was dedicated to true Vampire enthusiasts – from an autograph signing session with Paul Wesley (Stefan) to a live performance by Vampire Diaries soundtrack contributor A Fine Frenzy.

The celebration reached its zenith, however, when Paul and his castmates Nina Dobrev (Elena) and Ian Somerhalder (Damon) took the stage for a lively Q & A segment – that included a dance by Ian, some joking by Paul and a Valentine’s Day dedication from Nina!
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New York. LA. New York. LA. When friends ask me which of the two metropolises I dig the most, I usually comment on how they breed different brands of hustling – both of which I’m encouraged by. So it was natural that when I began talking about the fresh New York-centric HBO series How To Make It In America (Sundays on HBO at 10pm), comparisons to its glossier Hollywood-based predecessor Entourage would arise.

While the two series deal with similar themes of brotherhood, partying and industry-climbing, each does so with its own swagger – and I’m willing to raise a glass to them both!

Prior to America’s premiere, I asked its lead actor Bryan Greenberg (Ben) and creator/exec. producer Ian Edelman a couple questions about the show’s ambitious title and playful cinematography. In return, they dropped some fun insight about the series’ unorthodox shooting process! Here’s a transcript from our phone call: … More

The recent tragedies in Haiti have inspired millions of people around the world to donate their time, talent and additional resources in an effort to heal the nation.

Last week, I attended a Stars For Haiti comedy fundraiser that took place at the infamous Laugh Factory in LA. While there, I spoke with event organizer Poprah (I Want To Work For Diddy) and comedians Frangela (I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here) who shared why they chose to support the Haitian relief efforts via this particular initiative.

I entered January 2009 hoping that the following 12 months would usher in significant growth in quality and access for Talk of Fame. And thanks to much hustling and your support via comments, clicks, and emails, both I and the show underwent some game-changing developments. I’ve listed a few highlights below in hopes that we can celebrate together! … More

America’s Best Dance Crew returns to MTV with its fifth season on January 28th.

But since I can’t wait that long for a glimpse of the next round of talent, I swung by the LA audition callbacks to get the scoop on Klaamation, Poreotics, Destined 2 Be, Rumba-ta, Beat Squad and One Nation Crew.

Depending on the crews chosen, I’m confident that MTV has the potential to raise the bar for ABDC this season. Is there anyone in this segment that you’re crossing your fingers for?

Moments before stepping onstage for his MySpace Music Release Show in LA, R&B singer/producer Ryan Leslie poured some knowledge into the Talk of Fame mic.

His primary advice to other artists? Utilize digital outlets in addition to traditional media to distribute your music to the masses.

With a resume that includes credits with Beyonce, Musiq Soulchild, Britney Spears, and a Harvard degree, I’m thinking that Ryan might know what he’s talking about – hehe!

To excite New Yorkers with a track that praises the Big Apple is one thing. To turn said track into an international hit is a completely different feat. Such is Jay-Z and Alicia Keys‘ hometown anthem “Empire State of Mind”.

The song drips with the kind of pride, bravado, strength, and resilience that runs through New York’s pipes, and every time Alicia bellows, “These streets will make you feel brand new. These lights will inspire you,” my chest pokes out a centimeter further. I’m convinced that you don’t have to be a native New Yorker to fully understand/support her proclamation!

With Jay’s lyrical mastery, Alicia’s enrapturing tone, and Hype Williams‘ respectful cinematography, we’ve got a potent piece of art here. Are you as caught up as I am?