HOLLYWOOD — Jeanne Cooper, the ultimate diva as Kay Chancellor on “The Young and The Restless,” came to Chevalier’s Bookstore in Los Angeles to support Jack Allan Allocco, Warden Neil and myself at a book signing of our children’s book, “It’s All About Dorothy.” It is a 36-line song that tells the classic story of “The Wizard of Oz,” brought to life by Warden’s brilliant illustrations.
Jeanne said she came to support Jack (who has won five Emmy Awards and been nominated 16 times for writing original music for “The Young and The Restless and “The Bold and The Beautiful”) and myself. She bought four books and admitted, “I wanted them for my grandchildren and to be sold at charity auctions to raise money!” Her sister, Evelyn, also bought a book, as did Y&R stars Kate Linder (Esther Valentine) and Michael Corbett (the former David Kimble on the Y&R). Michael, who has written three books on real estate, shows homes of the rich and famous on “Extra,” hosted by Mario Lopez. He revealed that he has been asked to join “The View” as ITS real-estate guru.
Jack, Warden and myself were signing books for people who couldn’t wait to share our vision with their children and friends. The legendary Sally Struthers — a friend of mine since “All in the Family,” and more recently a regular on “The Gilmore Girls” — wore Warden Neil’s clothes when he was costume designer for “Gloria,” her series spin-off of “All in the Family,” sent regrets. “I’d love to be there to celebrate with you guys, but I have to be in New York to work up a new show I’m involved in.” They don’t come any nicer than Sally. You can check out our book at the website: itsallaboutdorothy.com.
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Sad to learn that “All My Children” will be gone from ABC by Sept. 1 and “One Life to Live” after the first of next year. Your cards and letters may be the only thing that can save either or both shows. Maybe a cable network will pick them up.
James Bond will be back! Not only will Daniel Craig be back as 007 in “Bond 23,” as they are calling it right now, but he also will star in “Bond 24.” “Bond 23” has Oscar winner Sam Mendes (“American Beauty”) set to direct, and it also boasts Ralph Fiennes, Javier Bardem and Judi Dench as co-stars. It will be released in November 2012. As for “Bond 24,” it is planned for a release in 2014. How can anyone plan for the year 2014. Do any of us know where we’ll be then?
Send letters to Tony Rizzo’s Hollywood, 8306 Wilshire Blvd., No. 362, Beverly Hills, CA 90211.
© 2011 King Features Synd., Inc.