By Cindy Elavsky
Q: I just saw the movie “Push,” starring Dakota Fanning and Chris Evans, and was really surprised and impressed by Dakota’s performance. What else is she working on? — Chelsea F., via e-mail
A: The acting phenom, who just turned 15, is currently in talks to play the part of the evil vampire, Jane, in the next movie in the “Twilight” saga called “New Moon.” Having read the series, I can say that this role would be a great part for Dakota: She has the looks and the acting chops to pull it off. I also think this will be a great opportunity, just as “Push” was, for the young actress to showcase her transformation from child star to lead actress.
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Q: I am getting really antsy for the next season of “Dancing With the Stars” to begin. When will it start, and who will be on it? — Tisha L. in Ohio
A: ABC recently announced its latest lineup for the newest installment of my favorite reality show/competition, “Dancing With the Stars.” The eighth season of the hit show premieres Monday, March 9 (check local listings for times), with the following quick-stepping stars: former Go-Go’s lead singer Belinda Carlisle, “Jackass” reality-show star Stephen “Steve-O” Glover, actor/comedian David Alan Grier, Olympic gold-medalist gymnast Shawn Johnson, singer Jewel Kilcher, rapper Lil Kim, rodeo cowboy (and Jewel’s husband) Ty Murray, “Sex and the City” actor Gilles Marini, “Access Hollywood” anchor Nancy O’Dell, actress Denise Richards, retired New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor, country singer Chuck Wicks and Apple Computer co-founder and billionaire Steve Wozniack.
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Q: My sister and I were recently reminiscing about our teenage crushes we had on David and Shaun Cassidy. We were wondering what they are up to now. — Lisa M., Chicago
A: Brothers Shaun, 50, David, 58, and Patrick, 47, are currently working on a sitcom for ABC Family called “Ruby and the Rockits,” which chronicles the life of a former teen idol (Patrick) whose quiet life is interrupted when former bandmate and brother (David) arrives, bringing his newfound teenage daughter (played by Alexa Vega) with him. The show has been given the green light for a 10-episode order. Shaun developed the show and is the executive producer and writer. Youngest brother, Ryan, 43, works on the set and props.
Have a question for Cindy? E-mail her at [email protected], or write to her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475.
© 2009 King Features Synd., Inc.