Video: Alexander Skarsgard Chats About Avoiding Media Coverage

On Fame, Nudity and Ego's

Alexander Skarsgard may not be happy to read about himself in the news, but he is more than happy to shed his clothes.  In a recent interview the actor, who plays Eric Northman on HBO's True Blood, stated that he tries not to indulge in reading blogs and fan sites to protect his own sanity.  He says:

"You read something bad and you get very self-conscious. Then you read something good and your ego will just blow up and explode."

Of course, when it comes to taking his clothes off on the set of True Blood, Skarsgard is less than humble.  In the article he is quoted as saying "Why do I love being naked? Because I was born that way?". Although he has been questioned about it before, when asked about the nudity on True Blood, Skarsgard confirmed again that he is fine with it and that he does not consider himself to be exploited by the show.  He says:

"There's always a reason for it on the show and it's always at great moments: fun, crazy scenes."

On the Lady Gaga Video and His Hopes for True Blood

In the video below Skarsgard chats about the impact of True Blood and the metaphors that the show represents.  He talks again about avoiding the pitfalls of fame by staying away from reading fan blogs, reviews, etc.  He does not want his performance to be affected by what is out there.  He also talks about his work on the Lady Gaga video for her hit song Paparazzi.  Skarsgard reveals that he is friends with the director of the video and he knew when he got involved it would not be a simple walking down the beach holding hands concept.  Finally he talks about the end of True Blood saying he would love it to go on until he looks to old to play the part.  With Eric not aging Skarsgard has to stay looking young.  We hope True Blood goes on that long too Alex!! Source:  Showbizspy.com - Alexander Skarsgard: 'I Don't Read About Myself' Youtube.com- Viking Vampire - Alexander Skarsgard Interview (Photo Credit:  HBO Inc.)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

True Blood’s Stephen Moyer to be Honored for CLARE Foundation Support

CLARE Foundation Helps Substance Abusers

Mainstreaming Vampire Bill continues to prove that chivalry is not dead.  Stephen Moyer will be honored for his support of the CLARE Foundation at the foundation's annual dinner on Thursday, November 11, 2010 at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel in the Arcadia Ballroom. The CLARE Foundation provides treatment and recovery services for substance abusers and their families with 11 residential, outpatient and community-based programs in Santa Monica, Venice, Culver City, and Los Angeles. Tickets to the event can be purchased or donations made at clarefoundation.org.  Source:  AllStephenMoyer.com Photo Credit:  AllStephenMoyer.com

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

True Blood Cast Supports Ryan Kwanten's New Movie

Mini-True Blood Reunion at Red Hill Screening

True Blood's Ryan Kwanten (Jason Stackhouse) had cast support  at the Australians in Film Hollywood screening for his new film Red Hill. Fellow True Blood costars Rutina Wesley (Tara), Jim Parrack (Hoyt) , and Lindsay Pulsipher (Crystal) came out to show Kwanten some love. The movie is a Western about a young police officer who starts a family in a small country town which is terrorized by an escaped convict.  Kwanten's new True Blood love interest, Lindsay Pulsipher, even took time to pose for pictures and chat with fans outside the event (see video below).  Pulsipher was gracious and seemed to enjoy the fan interaction. 

Aussie Kwanten will be back in Australia to support Red Hill and attend the IF Awardsin Sydney in November.  Kwanten's career is taking off with not only this role, but his upcoming feature turn as Charles Manson. Source:  Popsugar.com.au- True Blood Stars Step Out to Support Ryan Kwanten's Red Hill Youtube.com - True Blood's Lindsay Pulsipher @ Red Hill Premiere in Los Angeles! (Photo credit:  Popsugar.com.au and Starpulse.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Win a True Blood Comic Book

Complete the Scenes to Win!

If you haven't had a chance to check out the True Blood Comic Books here is the opportunity to win one!  Truebloodtwitter.com is running a contest for fans who can win a copy of the first comic book. 

Contest Rules

• 1) Hover over each frame to get the dialogue set-up.
• 2) In the comments box here, list the scene number.
• 3) Fill in the script for each of the characters.
• 4) After you're done, vote for your faves by liking.
• 5) Make sure your friends "like" your comment -- Click the Twitter or Facebook icon below your entry before posting or after posting click on the timestamp next to your name to get the link.
• 6) The top 10 comments with the highest number of likes will win True Blood Comic #1. Game open until Monday November 1 at 9pm ET.

Example:

• Scene 5:
• Sam: Sookie, why are you standing out here in the rain?
• Sookie: I heard Joe Francis was coming to Bon Temps.
• Sookie: Think I have shot at Girls Gone Wild: True Blood Edition?

Be sure to be creative and remember the top 10 entries with the most comments will win.  Come back here and post the links to your entries in the Comment section so we can all vote for you! Source:  Truebloodtwitter.com - Win a True Blood Comic (Photo Credit:  Truebloodtwitter.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Eric Northman Named One of Television's Top 5 Villains

Eric Makes the List at No. 4

Freddie Kruger, Voldemort, Michael Myers, Jason and Dracula.  Everyone knows these popular movie bad guys.  Numerous lists have been created dedicated to movie villains but what about the fabulous TV villains?  Moviesonline.cahas come out with a list dedicated to our favorite TV badasses.  True Blood's Eric Northman made the list.

5.  The Cigarette Smoking Man ("The X-Files")

The Cigarette Smoking Man played by William B. Davis, made the list due to his subtlety.  Quietly sitting in the corner of the room in a cloud of smoke and delivering news that you just knew wasn't going to be good.  He wasn't in every episode of the X-Files but his presence was felt throughout the entire series.

4.  Eric Northman (True Blood)

True Blood's viking vampire, played by the wonderful Alexander Skarsgard, makes the list for the way he rides the line between good and evil.  From one episode to the next you never know what you are going to get with Eric, from ripping the limbs off the humans chained in his basement, to showing his softer side with Sookie and Pam, Eric kept us guessing.  That is part of what makes Eric such a fascinating villain to watch. 

3.  Mr. Burns (The Simpsons)

Charles Montgomery Burns makes the list primarily due to the fact that the only thing he loves is money.  Burns will step on whoever he needs to (including children and animals) to achieve his goals.  If that wasn't scary enough he owns a nuclear plant as well!

2.  Eric Cartman (South Park)

Even though he's an eight year old cartoon character, Eric Cartman easily made the list.  He is spoiled, selfish, racist and sexist and is another character who will do whatever it takes to get his own way.  Including kidnapping a friend and holding them in a bomb shelter to get an invite to a birthday party. 

1.  Dexter Morgan (Dexter)

Dexter Morgan, played by Michael C. Hall, is a unique serial killer.  He only kills people who deserves to die and has a strict policy against killing the innocent.  So nice to see a serial killer with a conscious.  When not killing people Dexter works for the Miami Police Department as a blood splatter expert.  The ability to hide the psychopath beneath is what earned Dexter the number one spot. Tell us what you think - do you agree with this list?  Anyone missing? Source:  Moviesonline.ca - Top 5 Villains in Modern Television (Photo Credits:  Moviesonline.ca)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Video: Ryan Kwanten of True Blood Talks 'Red Hill'

Chatting About Red Hill and His Sex Symbol Status

Ryan Kwanten (Jason Stackhouse) went on Sunrise in Australia to talk about his new movie 'Red Hill'.  The movie is starting to garner some serious praise and Ryan is proud to have done a film on his home turf.  He has this to say about Australian story telling: "We Australians are notorious for being a little wild and for adding our own kind of rawness to a story" In the interview Kwanten says he has worked hard to get to the place he is at now where he can be more selective of the roles that he chooses and he looks forward to challenging himself.  

Legend of the Guardians

Kwanten describes the process of working on the animated film saying that you have to learn to suspend reality even more than a normal film as there are no other actors or props there to help.  It's just you and a microphone.

On His Sex Symbol Status

Sunrise asks Kwanten about his Men's HealthCover and his sex symbol status and he seems genuinely shy about this and jokes withthem about the pictures they are showing with him wearing little to no clothing.  He goes on to say that when he is working on True Blood the nudity comes from a story point and not just for the sake of being naked. Sunrise clearly knows what fans all over the world are getting to know - that Ryan is a genuinely nice guy and deserves all success he's gaining.  'Red Hill' comes out in Australia on November 25th. Source: Sunrise Videos (Photo Credit:  Daemonstv.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

The Franklin Files -- The Dinner Party

"A minister? Franklin was a minister? What the hell is it about me that attracts sick religious people? I know you are a good God, at least that's what Sookie says, and she still has me believing – but you got some messed up people that say they're working for you." And with that "prayer" Tara stuffed the envelope full of money into her jeans, tucked the journal under her arm and headed back towards Sam's trailer behind the bar. Luckily, Sam was away "playing Lassie" as Tara now thought of his absences since he'd shared with her the secret that he was a shape shifter. So, she knew she could look at the journal at his place without being bothered by anyone. She found the key where Sam kept it hidden, let herself in, grabbed a beer, then went and sat on the porch. Tara still couldn't believe the seemingly psychotic vampire who kidnapped her, wanting to turn her into his vampire bride, had been a man of the cloth in his human life. She took the journal in hand and finally got up the nerve to open it. The entry she'd been reading continued:

Wednesday, October 31, 1855 My text for the day was Revelations 7: 2-17, but I focused on verses 13-14, And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? And whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb And I didst thou indeed preach my heart and soul unto the rafters of the great tribulation that awaits those who sin against God and man! And surely I have borne my own tribulations and truly I have wanted nothing more than my own sweet death that would free me from my tormentor and I would find myself arrayed in white before the glorious throne for all eternity. Tonight was another tribulation, a celebratory dinner held on my behalf by my oppressor. And even though it was held to mark my first sermon, my mother could not deign to seat me in a place of honor. She took her place at the head of the table while she placed me down near my father where he always sat, at the lower end. Mr. and Mrs. Meagles were there, of course, the greatest benefactors of the parish, and they did their best to keep the dinner conversation light and jovial in the face of my mother's punishing parish gossip. God Bless the Meagles! I do have to credit Mother with inviting my Dearest Gwendolyn. I know it pained Mother to invite her, but it would have seemed impolite not to invite the young vicar's intended. My heart ached to look down the table to see her seated next to Mother. I wanted to jump up and remove Darling Gwen from her clutches. I was so distracted during the dinner I hardly touched the food what with watching the light reflecting off her golden curls and listening to the music of her voice in conversation. Mother's shrill voice pierced my reverie, "Gwendolyn, darling, what a lovely frock you're wearing this All Hallow's Eve. If the Spirits were not already inclined to leave their deathly repose, one look at your lovely figure and even the most deadly male would find reason to rise from his earthly grave. Don't you think so, Mr. Flintwich?" I was livid with fury, but dared not cross her, and turned to the strangest couple ever to grace my mother's table at the Vicarage. It was a Miss Waters and a Mr. Henry Flintwich with whom Mother had recently become acquainted at a meeting of the Royal Society at Somerset House. What a strange pair they were, especially Mr. Flintwich who looked entirely unwell. He was the very color of death and his hand was cold as ice when I held it within my own. Upon my greeting his eyes met mine and I felt embarrassed and could not hold his gaze, feeling the greatest discomfiture. Truly, I do not see at all what Mother sees in them. Miss Waters appears to be the most unseemly sort of character. I'm surprised that Mother would allow them into the vicarage at all. Both Miss Waters and Mr. Flintwich seemed to leer at Gwendolyn whose head was bowed in deep embarrassment, but Mr. Meagles interjected to save the conversation, "I do believe I hear quite a few revelers out this evening so I fear Mrs. Meagles and I really must be going. It has been quite a lovely dinner Father and Mrs. Mott. Young Vicar Mott, quite a success on your sermon this morning. You quite, quite made me long for that day when I, myself, will be dressed in white for all eternity." "Oh, yes, Mr. Meagles, you always look quite lovely in your nightshirt," said Mrs. Meagles. "I just imagine you do," said Mr. Flintwich. "Do you two live near here in Twickenham?" "Yes, we have the Portnoy Estate," replied Mr. Meagles. "Well, I must call on you some evening." "Oh, yes. You'd be quite, quite welcome, Mr. Flintwich, anytime." Invited Mrs. Meagles as if she weren't even aware the words were leaving her lips. "And you too, Miss Waters, of course." I wonder why an elegant young man like Mr. Flintwich would want to spend an evening with the boring old Meagles? Something is not quite right with him or Miss Waters. I didn't like them one bit, but I was glad for their presence tonight. For after dinner, Father excused himself to bed, poor soul. Mother withdrew with Miss Waters and Mr. Flintwich to the drawing room, surprisingly leaving me alone with Gwendolyn. Mother has never left us alone before, being quite jealous of my feelings for her. As we waited for her carriage to be brought round, for the second time in my life I was able to take her in my arms and attain one of the sweetest kisses on earth imaginable.

Tara slammed the journal shut. "Enough! That sick, sad, bastard! Sweetest kisses on earth??? I'm going to be sick. I wonder how Gwendolyn would have liked a kiss with a big old mouth full of fang? And tribulation? How about my tribulations, Franklin? What about my being clothed in white? Yeah, I was clothed in white, Franklin, with your sorry ass blood and guts all over me..." Tara stared at the journal not sure whether she wanted to keep the journal or throw it in the trash. "Aw, hell, no, Franklin. I'm going to learn every dirty little detail of your sick little life." Just as she'd been drawn to Franklin when he was "alive" she was drawn to him now. She knew she had to read more.
Disclaimer: The Franklin Files are provided for entertainment purposes only and is a parody of the fantasy series, True Blood, and as such, is presented here for your amusement. "Franklin Files" and the various writers who contribute to it, have no relationship/affiliation to HBO, True Blood, or any of the cast or crew of said program nor any relation to Charlaine Harris, or the Sookie Stackhouse novels. Written By: Sarahfina Photo & Graphics By: Sarahfina

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Melissa Rauch Becomes Series Regular on Big Bang Theory

Will Hoyt's Girlfriend Return to True Blood?

Melissa Rauch who played Hoyt's overzealous girlfriend Summer, joined the cast of Big Bang Theory as Howard's significant other Bernadette.  The roll was only meant to last one episode but Rauch's character was wildly popular and they sweetened the deal for her.  While her contract does not involve every episode, fans of Rauch will be seeing a lot more of her!  Poor Hoyt - I'm sure he'll be distraught! Source:  ausiellofiles.ew.com - Exclusive: 'Big Bang Theory' Promotes Melissa Rauch to Series Regular Photo Credit:

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Video: Ryan Kwanten Talks About True Blood, Australia, and Red Hill

Red Hill Opens in Theaters November 5, 2010

In an interview with KTLA TV in California, Ryan Kwanten, who plays Jason Stackhouse on True Blood, chats about being scantily clad, Australia, and his new film, Red Hill.  Throughout the four minute clip, Kwanten's relaxed nature and playful humor are on prominent display. Kwanten revealed that the cast of True Blood will start filming Season 4 on the first of December and feels "very very proud and blessed" to be a part of such a successful show.  He laughed at the nudity questions, simply saying that "I don't feel like it's nudity for nudity's sake...it always feels like it's (for) a story point."

A Chance to Play a Real Cop

Kwanten's new movie, Red Hill, is a western drama set and filmed on his home turf of Australia.  He plays Shane Cooper, a police officer that moves to a small country town and immediately gets tangled up with a pack of vicious outlaws.

Critics have seen it and are calling it Australia's answer for No Country for Old Men.  We very much have our own version of the Wild West and anyone who knows an Australian or knows of an Australian knows that we are inherently wild in nature.  So, this story captures, I guess it goes back to the western style, the Clint Eastwood style of film making and puts it into an Australian setting.

Leaving Australia

Growing up right outside Sydney, Kwanten spoke about relocating to the U.S. eight years ago and how, even though he doesn't necessarily consider the U.S. to be home, it is "a home."

It's considered a right of passage for us (Australians) to go traveling, y'know, even if you're penniless you're pretty much booted out of the country at a certain point just to go and at least see the world and appreciate what you have and I just happened to come here and stay here.

Red Hill will have a limited release in New York and Los Angeles on Friday, November 5, 2010.  The movie premiered in the U.S. this week and CraveOnline was giving away five free tickets to a special screening on October 25th.  Did any Truebies win the tickets?  Any teasers for the rest of us that won't get to see the movie until it's released more widely?   Source: KTLA.com- Interview with Ryan Kwanten (Photo Credit: Details Magazine)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Ryan Kwanten Kicks Halloween Off Gangster Style at TAO Nightclub

Hosting Veuve Clicquot's Yelloween

Ryan Kwanten kicked off TAO's Halloween Massacre Weekend by hosting Veuve Clicquot's Yelloween celebration. Kwanten, who looked smart in a gangster costume, started the evening off with dinner at the Asian Bistro. After dining with friends he moved on to the packed nightclub where the DJ announced his arrival. After heading to the VIP area, Kwanten strutted his stuff on the catwalk while a magnum of Veuve Clicquot arrived via a zipline. Check out these pictures of the event and video of Kwanten arriving on the red carpet.

Ryan's champagne being delivered by zipline.

 

 Kwanten enjoying the festivities.  

 

Some of the fantastic costumes people wore!

Kwanten's Arrival

The fun continues tonight with LMFAO as a guest DJ spinning The Party Rock Experience and on Halloween night Erick Morillo will be taking a turn with the Morillo Massacre! Click here for more info on these events. Submission thanks to: TAO Nightclub Got a True Blood related tip? Submit it here! Just select the Subject drop down 'Contribution Request' and send us your news item!? Source: Taolasvegas.com (Photo Credit: Tao Nightclub)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

An Interview with Charlaine Harris

Discussing Her Writing Method, Current, and Future Projects

New York Times bestselling author Charlaine Harris has written dozens of novels and short stories including the wonderful Southern Vampire Mysteries. The world Mrs. Harris has created in the Sookie Stackhouse novels is of course the basis for the hit HBO series, True Blood. Supernatural author Jonathan Maberry recently had the opportunity to interview the talented Charlaine Harris about her writing method, True Blood and her future projects. Mrs. Harris describes the Sookie Stackhouse series as a "romantic vampire mystery adventure." The characters, unknowing of what their future holds, compel the story to come to life for her as she writes. She discloses that her writing process from concept to manuscript is "chaotic" and she considers herself a "seat of the pants writer." One has to wonder after the dozens of novels and short stories she's written, what she does to keep the process enjoyable. Mrs. Harris explains:

"I'm still looking for the magic procedure that will make writing easy. After all these books, that still eludes me. I like being alone in my brain with the characters."

When asked about the changes in the Sookie Stackhouse series for the television show True Blood and why they seem to do so well, she replies:

"I have no idea. You'd have to ask Alan (Alan Ball). I'm okay with the changes, because I know the real story."

Mrs. Harris fills us in on her current project, an anthology written with her friend Toni L.P. Kelner titled 'Home Improvement: Undead Edition'. While a bit behind schedule, she is quite certain it will be published on time. To wrap the interview, Mrs. Harris was asked what is next for her:

"I have to start work on Sookie 12 – Sookie 11, DEAD RECKONING, is almost ready for copyediting, and it's out of my life. And I'd like to write something completely different. "

Click Here to view the full interview and let us know your thoughts in the comment section below! Source: jonathanmaberry.com- A Conversation with New York Times Bestselling Author, Charlaine Harris (Photo Credit: charlaineharris.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

True Blood's Alexander Skarsgard Donates Item to Save Sweden's Hammarby

Autographed Movie to Help Bajen Aid

True Blood's Alexander Skarsgard donated a bunch of items to askarsgardnews.com to help raise funds for Bajen Aid.  Bajen Aid is a non-profit organization raising funds to help save Skarsgard's favorite soccer team Hammarby from going bankrupt.  This week's item is an autographed copy of the romantic comedy Hundricket the Movie(translated The Dog Trick).  The 2002 movie was personally signed by Skarsgard on October 3, 2010 while he was visiting Stockholm, Sweden. This rare Regional 2 (UK) formatted copy with no English subtitles is available for bidding by fans on eBay, beginning October 27 and will run 10 days. Click here to bid. All proceeds will be donated to Bajen Aid.

Source:  askarsgard.com - New Item Up for Auction in Our Fight to Save Hammarby (Photo credit:  askarsgard.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Jason Stackhouse: The Scholar?

Jason Ponders a Future at Renard Parish Community College

Decisions, decisions. That's what I got to make and real soon. I done inherited a bigger family than Sookie and me coulda ever had and now it's time to man up and take care of that family. Yep, folks – Jason Stackhouse is gonna be the head of household and he's gonna have to make sure he has the money rolling in. I ain't so sure that volunteering for the Renard Parish Sheriff's Office is gonna bring in enough dough to feed my new family. Plus, I'm gonna need some gas money for my trips between Bon Temps and Hot Shot. But that's okay, 'cuz I been thinking a long time about what kind of career I'm really lookin' for. I been looking through this here course catalog from the Renard Area Technical College here in Bon Temps. You know me, I get confused pretty quick like. I got real confused when I opened this thing and saw all these classes they offer. I started daydreamin' and next thing you know, Andy was standin' over me barking orders – something about them DEA guys being in his hair and whatnot. I been sitting here looking through this here course catalog and I gots lots of choices. Let me know what you think I should pick. I got truck driving, culinary arts, welding, and all kinds of other stuff that might interest me. I was thinking to myself, "Self," – that's me – Jason. "Self, you really gotta get you a diploma of some sort. Yeah, you was a hell of a football star at Bon Temps High, but ever since then, you just been kinda spinning your wheels and you done run that road crew pretty doggone good. Still, unless I get a whole bunch of jobs like Lafayette, there ain't no way I can take care of a family making what I was making and I sure can't do it as a deputy sheriff." That's when it hit me – there might be all kinds of stuff I can do. I could drive one of them big rigs. Heck, truck drivers make lots of cash and there ain't none in Bon Temps that I know of. Only trucks I really see come through here is the ones that deliver beer and True Blood to Merlotte's. Maybe I could drive the True Blood delivery truck? Yeah, that might be what I might could do. Hmmm. Well, maybe not. Wait, Culinary Arts? Hmmm, that might work. I could work with LaFayette at Merlotte's, cookin' and makin' all kinds of fancy food. We could even go into business together and cater weddings and stuff. But then again, maybe not. I can't even fry a egg – who am I foolin'? Now Welding – that might be somethin' I can put to good use. I know I saw some welding equipment in Hot Shot. I could make a whole lotta extra money on the side welding stuff. Or maybe not – I might blow something up and that wouldn't be good. I also got Barbering, Electronics and Air Conditioning and Refrigeration to choose from. They got plenty of people who need their hair cut and people gotta have their TVs and air conditioners repaired. Decision, decisions. All I know is I won't be joining any more cults. No sir, Jason Stackhouse ain't gonna get mixed up with no more of that nonsense. And he ain't so sure that the police academy is for him, either. What do you think, folks? Who knows? This here education stuff might just open up a whole new set of opportunities for me. Lord knows I need it. Grams would be so proud.
Disclaimer: "Jason Stackhouse, The Scholar?" is provided for entertainment purposes only and is a parody of the fantasy series, True Blood, and as such, is presented here for your amusement. The writer has no relationship/affiliation to HBO, True Blood, or any of the cast or crew of said program nor any relation to Charlaine Harris, or the Sookie Stackhouse novels. Written By: Arlene Culpepper Photo Credit: HBO (Screen Capture: James)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Video: Rutina Wesley Dishes with Mo'Nique about True Blood

On Her Fabulous Physique

Rutina Wesley, who plays Tara Thornton on HBO's True Blood, recently appeared on The Mo'Nique Show.  Speaking openly and candidly, she gives some insight into her life and work. Looking fit as a fiddle in a short, sleeveless dress, it's no wonder Mo'Nique began the interview with the following:

"Normally, I'm a sistah, who gives other sistahs, their props.  And you look amazing!  But I gotta tell ya, I got a little envy, happenin' with me right now... 'cause I understand your husband is a soul food cooker, sweet potato pie fixer -- are you eatin' any of it?!"

Rutina replies "Oh honey, I eats!  I eats.  Matter of fact, he had to make 25 pies before he got it right." Wesley talks about her figure and says she used to be a dancer, her parents are dancers, therefore it must be in her genes.  But she does admit to working out, as well.  Three to four days a week, she runs, does push ups, and "a little bit of crunches".  Her hard work definitely pays off -- have you seen those arms?  Amazing!

On Being a Part of the True Blood Phenomenon

Wesley remembers exactly where she was when she got "the call".  She was at Starbucks!  Getting animated and a bit choked up, she practically gives a play-by-play of what happened. Speaking of Rutina's character, Mo'Nique asks, "How much fun is it being Tara Thornton?" Rutina's heartfelt response:

"You know what?  It's a blessing.  It is like a dream role, for me to play someone who gets to go up & down, around the corner.  I have this incredible journey, umm... you know, I can't - I still can't believe it.  Like, every day I wake up, and I'm like, 'I'm on TV!  I'm on TV!', you know?  And I get really, really, really excited about it."

When asked about comparing herself to Tara, Rutina has this to say:

"You know, me and Tara have a lot of similarities.  I'm very passionate, I'm very driven, but I also can be incredibly insecure... a delicate flower, and sensitive.  And uh, you know, I'm my own worst critic."

Wesley says she is so thankful and grateful that she gets to live her dream, acting, for which she went to school.  We're all grateful for such a wonderful actress on our favorite show! Watch the video below for some laughs and juicy (literally!) tidbits.  Be sure to let us know what your favorite part was!

BET Videos

Source: BET.com- The Mo'Nique Show | Guest Rewind | Rutina Wesley - 10/20/10 (Photo credit: BET.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

True Blood Star Ryan Kwanten to Play Psychopath Charles Manson

From All-American Jock To American Psycho

Ryan Kwanten who plays Jason Stackhouse on True Blood, announced at a press conference for his latest movie, the Australian western 'Red Hill,' that he has been cast in a film as the notorious killer-cult leader Charles Manson. 'The Machinist' screenwriter Scott Kosar will direct the film from his own screenplay. Charles Manson has been the subject of several cinematic treatments on both the large and small screens dating back to 1976 though told from various perspectives including that of the prosecutor, a 'family' member, and Manson himself. Though development is still in the early stages, Kwanten's film is said to focus primarily on Manson's years as the leader of his murderous cult, rather than depicting his entire life story. 

History of Charles Manson

Manson is currently serving a life prison sentence for seven counts of murder and one count of conspiracy to murder which date back to late 1960s. Among one of the most notorious villains in history, Manson and his 'family' are most famous for the murders of actress Sharon Tate - who was 8 1/2 months pregnant at the time - and four others in her home in Los Angeles in 1969. In addition, the 'family,' made up mostly of 20-somethings, killed a married couple at another location. Kwanten is best known for his role as a lovable though seemingly dense ex-football jock in the small town of Bon Temps in the acclaimed HBO series,'True Blood.' The role of the charismatic Manson would be challenging for any actor as the subject is believed by many to be psychotic, evil, and quite intelligent. Clearly Kwanten is looking to be challenged as an actor so it should be very interesting to view the completed project. Kwanten previously starred in  "Dead Silence" and recently voiced one of the characters in  "Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole." He's currently filming Joe Lynch's horror film "Knights of Badassdom." Source: The Wrap - 'True Blood' Star Ryan Kwanten to Play Charles Manson (Photo Credit: TVGuide.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

True Blood Stars Schedule - Eyecon 2010

Just one Week to go!

Just one week till Eyecon 2010 will be upon us. Next Friday we'll be getting ready for the cocktail Party out by the Pool!

All Schedules are Tentative

Eyecon Friday Schedule

Friday 11/05/10 Time Location Registration Opens 6:00pm Registration Cocktail Party "A Black and White Affair" 9:00pm Poolside Friday Night Pool Party 10:00pm Poolside Werewolf Party Game 11:00pm Heroes Ballroom 2

Eyecon Saturday Schedule

Saturday 11/06/10 Time Location Convention Opens 10:00am Multiple Joe Manganiello Q&A Session 11:00am Heroes Ballroom 2 Allan Hyde Q&A Session 12:00pm Heroes Ballroom 2 Celebrity Photo Ops 1:00pm Breakout Room 1 Concert - Abri van Straten 2:00pm Heroes Ballroom 2 Celebrity Autograph Session 4:00pm Heroes Ballroom 2 Banquet Registration 5:30pm Banquet Room Saturday Evening Banquet 6:00pm Banquet Room Concert - The Nova Echo 8:00pm Heroes Ballroom 2 Fangbanger's Ball 9:30pm Downstairs Ballroom

Eyecon Sunday Schedule

Sunday 11/07/10 Time Location Convention Opens 11:00am Multiple Celebrity Photo Ops 11:30am Heroes Ballroom 2 Sam Trammell Q&A Session 1:00pm Heroes Ballroom 2 Kristin Bauer Q&A Session 2:00pm Heroes Ballroom 2 Celebrity Autograph Session 3:00pm Heroes Ballroom 2 Sunday After Party 5:00pm Poolside True Blood Themed Panels Time Location To Be Determined 11:00am Breakout Room 1 Vendor's Room Hours Time Location Friday 6pm - 8pm Heroes Ballroom 3 Saturday 10am - 6pm Heroes Ballroom 3 Sunday 11am - 5pm Heroes Ballroom 3

To Buy Tickets:

http://www.eyeconfla.com/twilight/tickets.html

Source: Eyecon

Photo Credit: K. S. Rose

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Ryan Kwanten Enjoys Being One of True Blood's Humans

Ryan Kwanten on Red Hill and True Blood

In a recent interview with Jethro Nededog from Zap2it, Ryan Kwanten, who plays Jason Stackhouse on HBO's True Blood, talks about his new movie Red Hill and the upcoming 4th season of True Blood. Red Hill is due to be released November 5th only in New York and Los Angeles, but if you are like me, you are hoping for a wider release sooner rather than later so we can watch him play big city cop turned small town cop chasing big time escaped serial killer. Ryan explained that this was the first time in 8 years he has been back home to film anything, and that he actually had difficulty acting in his native accent:

"First time I'd used my own voice actually. As silly as this sounds, my Australian friends would kill me, I'm so used to putting on the American accent when I hear the word action, this one was sort of retraining myself to go back to this voice, so it was interesting"

On Being a Human in True Blood

Ryan says its nice that the rambunctious Jason found love, the one quality that was missing from his life, with Crystal Norris. He appreciates how passionate Jason is and how he wears his heart on his sleeve:

"Honestly what I do really love about playing about him, is that as crazy as he may seem he is still one of the few humans in the show. He is sort of very much our view into that world, and without him, you just sort of have the vampire storyline, the wolves and whatnot, but it's nice to be able to cut back to a sense of reality".

He is looking forward to finding out just how Jason is supposed to take care of the town of Hot Shot and where his relationship with Crystal is going to go:

"He's also having to take care of a whole village of people and he's probably the last person on Earth who should be."

You can hear more of what Ryan had to say by checking out the videos below. SOURCE: Zap2It.com True Blood's Ryan Kwanten on 'Red Hill' and Jason taking charge in Season 4 (Photo Source: Zap2it)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Survival of the Hottest: True Blood Vampires vs. Those Other Vampires

Jessica and Pam Fight for Sexiest Female Vamp

It's pretty obvious these days that vampires are hot. A hot topic, a hot Halloween costume, and unlike their body temperature, they're smoking hot in the looks department. True Blood's lead female vampires, Jessica, played by Deborah Ann Woll, and Pam, played by Kristin Bauer van Straten, are in the running to be crowned sexiest vampire and they're up against the lady vamps from Twilight, Vampire Diaries, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. At the moment, our True Blood babes are currently losing to a non-vampire (that's right, she's NOT a vampire yet!) and a vain doppelganger.  This won't happen often, but Jessica and Pam definitely need help from their human Truebies. Want to see one of them win the "Hottest Vampire" title? Then please vote now!

Source: hollywoodlife.com - Kristen Stewart Vs. Nina Dobrev & More! Who's The Sexiest Lady Vampire? See Super Hot Pics & Vote!

Photo Credit: tylershields.com and Maxim.com

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Video: Denis O'Hare Talks True Blood vs. Broadway

True Blood's Denis O'Hare Set to Hit Broadway in November

Denis O'Hare, True Blood's king of Mississipi Russell Edgington, recently opened up to TheaterMania about working on Broadway versus True Blood. TheaterMania caught up with O'Hare at a press event he was at for his new Broadway show Elling. The play, which follows a pair of mismatched friends as they take their first steps in the world after living in an institution, will begin previews in November at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre. O'Hare told the interviewer going from True Blood back to theater was a big journey. He said most people do not realize how incredibly difficult theater work is, because you rehearse all day and perform live eight times a week. He did admit television is incredibly difficult in its own way, because you work long hours, but you do get downtime to rejuvenate. You can catch Denis O'Hare on Broadway beginning November 2nd in Elling, directed by Doug Hughes. Watch video of O'Hare comparing True Blood and Broadway below: Source: Theatermania.com -- Exclusive Video Flash: Denis O'Hare Compares True Blood and Broadway (Photo Credit: HBO Inc.)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Greg Fienberg Satiates True Blood Fans at Cinematheque

Boston University College of Communication Hosts Greg Fienberg

True Blood's co-producer Greg Fienberg satiated fans at the Boston University College of Communication by giving a lecture about the hit series. As part of a series entitled "Cinematheque," Greg screened an episode of True Blood and then discussed the process of how a show moves from the original development to broadcast, while also giving great advice for those considering a future in the film and television industries. As a producer for the television series "Twin Peaks" and the film "Gods and Monsters," Greg is knowledgable in the difference between the visual genres. He noted,

"with movies, you have two hours to work with; you shoot, edit, then prep and you're done. But with television you never know how long you're gonna go. Sometimes you're shooting, editing, and prepping all at the same time. It's chaotic."

Although most television shows involve 20 to 22 scripts per season, True Blood dedicates its season to only 12 scripts, putting a lot of pressure on the writers. Gregs was very adamant that:

"Every single script better be damn good...It is very sophisticated writing, the tone is shifting all the time...the people who develop the script, buy the script, and put it on the air are all the same people. Usually it's a bunch of different studios. This makes the whole process more cohesive; it really works well."

What Greg enjoys about working with True Blood is that the audience doesn't have to be spoon fed ideas; the fans are intelligent and thoughtful viewers, looking for more than a cheap thrill. The Emmy award winner was able to connect with such fans during his lecture and he compared it to being at Comic-Con...without girls screaming for Eric Northman, that is. It seems that Greg and True Blood have changed the minds of even the most skeptical person when it comes to television and what it means to have creative stories brought to one's living room. To prove his point, Greg screened "New World In My View" (the tenth episode of season two) to prove the progression of a script and the hard work involved to create a well crafted story. Attendees were asked to read the first and last drafts of the scripts in order to realize the evolution good writing takes. Many BU students left excited and with their questions answered; he truly gave them material to work with for their future careers in the film and television industry. Now all we have to do is figure out how Greg Fienberg can come to a campus near you. To hear some of the advice that Greg gave to the BU students, watch the video below. Sources: www.dailyfreepress.com — "True Blood" producer dissects script with more than 300 at Cinematheque hollywoodeastconnection.com — The Vampire Behind "True Blood" Speaks to BU Students youtube.com — Gregg Fienberg at Boston University (Photo Credit: hollywoodeastconnection.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Happy Birthday to True Blood's Chris Bauer

Happy Birthday to Chris Bauer! The True Blood star, who plays Detective Andy Bellefleur, is celebrating his 44th birthday today! We here at TrueBloodNet.com hope that Chris has a wonderful birthday, and many happy years to come. Image Credit: http://jesslaccetti.blogspot.com/

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Mariana Klaveno (True Blood's Lorena) Is Engaged!

Mariana Klaveno Engaged to Law Student

Congratulations are due to the lovely Mariana Klaveno! The True Blood star, who played the not-so-nice Lorena, recently became engaged to Luis Patino, a law student at UCLA. She tweeted on October 26,

Sorry I've been out of touch for a few days--been busy getting engaged!!!

She recently followed that up with a clarification on who she is engaged to:

Need to get the record straight- I'm engaged to Luis Patino, the UCLA law school student, not Luis Patino the True Blood producer.

The tweet about Mariana's engagement prompted Kristin Bauer van Straten (Pam Ravenscroft) to tweet about how True Blood seems to be a "love potion":

TB really is a love potion. Anna, Stephen, Me, Joe, Mariana...Alex is attached now...

It sure does seem like Kristin has a point! With all these stars finding love and happiness while (or after) working on True Blood, who will be next? We here are TrueBloodNet.com are absolutely thrilled for Mariana and wish her and her fiancé a lifetime of love and happiness! SOURCES: Mariana Klaveno's Official Twitter Page Kristin Bauer van Straten's Official Twitter Page (Image Credit: HBO Inc.)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

True Blood is Mainstreaming

'The Office' Costume Contest Airing October 28th

True Blood's popularity is showing up on television shows everywhere.  First Sesame Street made a parody episode about our favorite show and now NBC's hit show 'The Office' will have a little slice of Bon Temps on display during its Halloween themed costume competition.  Two Dunder Mifflin staff members will be donning True Blood costumes this Thursday night.  Andy will enter the competition dressed as brooding vampire Bill Compton while Meredith goes dressed as telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse.   The Halloween themed episode has the staff entering a costume contest competing for the grand prize of a coupon book.  Some of the other contestants are Ryan dressed as Justin Bieber, Darryl as Dracula and Gabe as Lady Gaga.

'The Office' airs on NBC Thursday nights at 9:00pm. Source:  Starcasm.net - PHOTOS 'The Office' 2010 Halloween Costume Contest Preview (Photo Credit:  Starcasm.net and NBC.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Video: Alexander Skarsgard Talks Eric, Vampires and Fangs

Answering Questions From Fans

HBO recently sat down with Alexander Skarsgard in London asking him a few fangastic questions submitted by fans. Skarsgard dished on fun things such as, his favorite True Blood scene, who would play him in a movie about his life, and if he's always wanted to portray a vampire. When asked the biggest difference between himself and Eric he answered:

"He can be quite ruthless. I don't know I'm...I hope I'm not that ruthless"

A fan also asked how he kept his fangs in. Skarsgard replied:

"They do a great job! They're pretty good those fangs, you just *click*click* You don't have to worry about it."

And for those who have wondered what role he'd like to play on True Blood besides Eric, you now have an answer! Without hesitation he answered, "Pam" with a smirk. Be sure to watch the full video below and tell us what burning questions you would love to ask! Source: Youtube- Alex Skarsgard Fangbangers Questions in London (Photo Credit: HBO Inc.)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Kristin Bauer Praises True Blood

Kristin Discusses Pam's Future and Possible Love Life

While it was Anna Paquin who won best horror actress at the 2010 Scream Awards, Kristin Bauer van Straten was dazzling the red carpet with her big smile and high praises for the best horror television show of 2010: True Blood. Kristin is known as Eric Northman's side kick and right hand vampire Pam Ravenscroft. She's become a fan favorite and everyone let out a sigh of relief when she was saved from a cement prison during the season finale. Kristin discussed what it's like to play on such a hit show and what Pam looks for in a lesbian lover. While Pam does, in the Charlaine Harris Sookie Stackhouse series, have a girlfriend, it seems that on the show she's simply dating and not looking to settle down. However, Kristin believes it would be fun to see Pam in a relationship and what she'd be like. Every fan wants to see Pam a little clumsy and nervous around someone she really likes.

Gay Friendly True Blood

When asked about the honor of being named the most gay friendly program on TV by GLAAD, Kristin couldn't be happier. She noted,

"Isn't that great? I love being part of it and I think entertainment and art has a huge opportunity and responsibility to open up horizons and maybe address issues in a way that is less confrontive but opens a door to conversation. People probably didn't think they could relate to people that are different are finding themselves relating, which I think is really neat. I think vampires are a wonderful metaphor in so many ways. In art, you can do things that you can't do politically."

When a show can mix vampires and social awareness in one hour, it has to be good. Add a sexy woman like Kristin Bauer with a killer wit and fans will be begging for more! Source: afterellen.com — Kristin Bauer talks "True Blood," Anna Paquin and Kristen Stewart win at the Scream Awards (Photo Credit: afterellen.com)

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

True Blood Inspiration Charlaine Harris One of EW’s 2010 Power Authors

Record For Most Titles On NYT Best Sellers List at One Time

Charlaine Harris, the author whose Sookie Stackhouse mysteries are the template from which HBO's powerhouse television show True Blood takes shape, has landed on Entertainment Weekly's elite list of "10 Power Authors by the Numbers," as announced in the October 15, 2010 issue of the magazine.

 

Harris was lauded for being the only author who has ever had nine titles on the New York Times bestseller list simultaneously.

 

She is in excellent company with Entertainment Weekly's (EW) nine other Power Authors including Nora Roberts, J.K. Rowling, Glenn Beck, Malcolm Gladwell, Stieg Larsson, Stephen King, Stephenie Meyer, Janet Evanovich and James Patterson.

 

'By The Number' Facts

More than 400 million of J.K. ROWLING's Harry Potter books have been sold. 10 MIL people listen to GLENN BECK's radio show each week—and a sizable percentage buy the books he recommends. Is he the next Oprah? 312 WEEKS THAT'S HOW LONG MALCOLM GLADWELL'S THE TIPPING POINT HAS STAYED ON THE BEST-SELLER LIST. If that manuscript STIEG LARSSON left behind is another DRAGON TATTOO novel, it's worth at least $25 MIL 27 NORA ROBERTS books are sold every minute. $40 MILLION WHAT STEPHEN KING TAKES HOME IN A GOOD YEAR. FANS SNAPPED UP 1.3 MILLION COPIES OF STEPHENIE MEYER'S BREAKING DAWN IN ITS FIRST 24 HOURS ON SALE. Random House lured JANET EVANOVICH away from longtime publisher St. Martin's with a sweet 3-book, $40 million deal—the year's biggest. 56 OF JAMES PATTERSON'S NOVELS HAVE BEEN NEW YORK TIMES BEST-SELLERS. SINCE 2008; 11 OF THEM HAVE HIT NO. 1.

In addition to the Sookie Stackhouse mysteries, Harris authors the Harper Connelly mysteries which are soon to take shape as a CBS television series, 'Grave Sight', in which the central character has the ability to sense the departed and witness their last living moments. Harris's most recently published book is 'Death's Excellent Vacation', a short story collection that she and Toni L. P. Kelner co-edited. Source:  EW.com - The Power List (Photo Credit:  HBO, Inc.) 

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums

Summer Itch

The summers in Bon Temps can be downright brutal. The temperatures easily soar into the 100's and when you add in the humidity and bugs, well, let's just say there are nicer places to spend some time. The latest heat wave had given Bon Temps eight straight days of triple digits. Sam had been grumpy and snappy ever since summer started but here lately, he was just plain, no fun to be around. Sookie decided to confront him tonight after work--if she didn't kill him before then! "Nice of you to show back up." She said, as Sam came back into Merlotte's after one of his numerous breaks. "Mind your own business Sookie," he snapped, as he quickly walked passed her. "Sam, what is that smell?" Sookie wrinkled her nose. "Lemon overkill?" Sam stopped suddenly and Sookie was tempted to read his mind but as mad as she was, she still didn't want to eavesdrop on her boss and long-time friend. "Um, I spilled a bottle of cleaning, uh cleaner; you know the one with the lemon scent. That must be it." Sookie knew Sam was lying, but said nothing. Instead she decided to keep an eye on him. Something was definitely up! Sookie continued to watch him for the rest of the evening. He looked…well, twitchy. There was no other word for it. She also noticed every time Sam returned from his office he smelled different. Each scent stronger and more intense as the night wore on. Finally, closing time came. Sookie and Arlene cleaned up and headed outside. Sam was nowhere to be seen. Arlene said goodbye and Sookie headed towards her car. Noticing the light on in Sam's trailer, she threw her purse into her car, took a deep breath and headed over. She knocked quietly just before she heard muffled steps and then a thud from inside. Thinking Sam might be in some kind of trouble, Sookie forgot her anger and rushed through the door. She came to a sudden halt as she was immediately confronted with the sight of Sam -- in all his naked glory. Not that she hadn't seen Sam naked before, but walking in on someone in their own home when you think they are in danger, then finding them naked and covered in a strange substance is always a bit, well, it deserved a scream. "Sam? Are you okay? What is that all over you?" Sam looked completely miserable and sheepishly replied, "Oatmeal." Sookie didn't mean to but she couldn't help herself and started laughing. Sadly, the harder she tried to stop, the harder she laughed. Tears streamed down her face as she attempted to control her laughter. After a minute Sookie had enough breath to speak. "What in the world for, Sam? Do you have chicken pox?" Sookie asked, while she wiped the wetness from her cheeks. She really did feel awful for laughing at Sam's obvious distress. "No," he said, looking even more embarrassed, if that was possible. "Fleas," he mumbled. Sookie tried. She really did. But a second fit of giggles got the better of her and led into another round of gut wrenching laughter. "Sookie! This isn't funny! Do you have any idea how bad they are? I mean I have to change, I go crazy if I don't, but as soon as I do and I go for a run, they're all over me! And they don't go away when I change back. They're everywhere and this little heat wave we got goin on here is just making it worse. I've tried everything to get rid of them and nothing works." By this time Sookie had almost stopped laughing, but Sam's last pitiful confession just started it right back up. "Is that what I smelled all night?" Sam seemed to realize for the first time that he was having this conversation with Sookie while he stood completely naked, except of course, for a thin layer of oatmeal. He turned ten shades of red, let out a long string of curses, then snatched an afghan off the back of the couch and covered himself. "Um, yeah. I've tried every flea remedy out there. Shampoos, powders, sprays, herbal tea, drops, flea collars, everything!" "Sam, why didn't you ask me to help you? You know I would have." "I know Sookie, but I just wasn't sure how to bring something like this up. It's embarrassing!" Sookie was still wiping tears when she left. She had instructed Sam to shower while she vacuumed the trailer from top to bottom and changed all the linens. Afterwards, Sookie rubbed cortisone cream on his bites then gave him a couple Benadryl so he could get a good night's sleep. Before she left she promised she would pick something up from the vet tomorrow, as long as Sam promised he would not run around naked with nothing but oatmeal spread all over him. After all, Bon Temps had enough strange things going on and certainly did not need to add naked oatmeal man to the already impressive list of weird.
Disclaimer: "Summer Itch" is provided for entertainment purposes only and is a parody of the fantasy series, True Blood, and as such, is presented here for your amusement. The writer has no relationship/affiliation to HBO, True Blood, or any of the cast or crew of said program nor any relation to Charlaine Harris, or the Sookie Stackhouse novels. Written By: Reagan Grimes Graphics Credit: http://findavet.us/blog

http://truebloodnet.com http://truebloodnet.com/community http://truebloodnet.com/forums