By Neia Balao
5:18am PDT, Sep 23, 2020
"Keeping Up With the Kardashians" will end after 20th season
It's the end of an era! On Sept. 8, the Kardashian-Jenner clan announced that after 14 years, their hit reality series, "Keeping Up With the Kardashians," would be coming to an end after its 20th season in 2021. "To our amazing fans — it is with heavy hearts that we've made the difficult decision as a family to say goodbye to 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians,'" read a family statement. "After what will be 14 years, 20 seasons, hundreds of episodes and numerous spinoff shows, we are beyond grateful to all of you who've watched us for all of these years — through the good times, the bad times, the happiness, the tears, and the many relationships and children. We'll forever cherish the wonderful memories and countless people we've met along the way." While fans are speculating that Kris Jenner could potentially move on to "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," Bravo exec Andy Cohen has said he doesn't envision that happening because she wouldn't want to give up all the control she's had with "KUWTK."
RELATED: Kardashians-Jenner exes: Where are they now?
Bachelor Nation alum Cassie Randolph files restraining order against Colton Underwood
On Sept. 11, TMZ reported that "The Bachelor" alum Cassie Randolph filed a restraining order against her ex, former franchise star Colton Underwood. Cassie accused her former fiancé of exhibiting controlling behavior and, TMZ reported, of "stalking and harassing her with unsettling text messages." She said he's showed up "uninvited to her L.A. apartment and parent's house" in Huntington Beach, California, where he loitered "in the alley outside her bedroom window." This is the latest development in their already messy split. In July, while chatting with Chris Harrison on "The Bachelor: The Greatest Seasons — Ever!" Cassie accused her ex of trying to "monetize" their breakup. "You informed me you intend to monetize our breakup by writing a new chapter to discuss your experience with COVID (where you stayed in my family's house during your recovery & about our breakup)," she shared on her Instagram Story. "You have also refused to give me any sort of approval on the chapter you will be writing, which will heavily feature me. … This seems a bit unfair to me. Colton, you can do what you want, but please do not have a double standard." Colton has denied her claims.
RELATED: Biggest scandals and unexpected twists of "The Bachelor" and "The Bachelorette"
Jerry Harris from Netflix's "Cheer" is arrested on child pornography charge
Following the release of Netflix's acclaimed docuseries, "Cheer," Jerry Harris quickly established himself as a fan favorite. However, on Sept. 17, he was arrested on a production of child pornography charge. Jerry then appeared in U.S. District Court in Chicago. The legal drama came after he was accused of child sexual exploitation and abuse by two alleged victims the same week. "We categorically dispute the claims made against Jerry Harris, which are alleged to have occurred when he was a teenager. We are confident that when the investigation is completed the true facts will be revealed," a representative for Jerry told CNN. Netflix has since spoken out, telling CNN, "Like everyone we are shocked by this news. Any abuse of minors is a terrible crime and we respect the legal process."
RELATED: Biggest reality TV moments of 2020 so far
Ellen DeGeneres starts new talk show season with an apology, might lose opportunity to host HBO Max's "Friends" reunion
While Ellen DeGeneres was a frontrunner to host the highly anticipated "Friends" reunion for HBO Max, that may no longer be the case after the talk show host found herself facing a slew of toxic workplace allegations this summer. On Sept. 15, Lisa Kudrow appeared on Andy Cohen's SiriusXM show, during which she spoke about rumors regarding Ellen's involvement in the reunion special. "Is Ellen — did I hear that Ellen DeGeneres was hosting the reunion?" he asked. Lisa responded, "Um, you may, I don't know. I don't know that that's been decided." In her show's Sept. 21 season premiere opening monologue, Ellen addressed claims she long fostered a toxic set as well as allegations that the "be kind" philosophy she promotes in public is fake. "The truth is, I am that person that you see on TV. I am also a lot of other things," she said. "Sometimes I get sad, I get mad, I get anxious, I get frustrated, I get impatient — and I am working on all of that. I am a work in progress."
Anna Faris announces shock "Mom" departure
On Sept. 4, news broke that Anna Faris was leaving her CBS sitcom "Mom," on which she's starred alongside Allison Janney for seven years, ahead of season 8. A rep for Warner Bros. Television confirmed to Deadline that her lead character, Christy, would not be recast. "The past seven years on Mom have been some of the most fulfilling and rewarding of my career," Anna said in a statement. "I'm so thankful to Chuck [Lorre], the writers, and my amazing castmates for creating a truly wonderful work experience. While my journey as Christy has come to an end, allowing me to pursue new opportunities, I'll be watching next season and rooting for my TV family."
Denise Richards, Teddi Mellencamp exit "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills"
On Sept. 9, a rep for Denise Richards confirmed that after two seasons, she would not be returning to "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" for the show's 11th season. Her departure comes months after drama was stirred up as "RHOBH" alum Brandi Glanville claimed she and Denise, who's married, hooked up and essentially had an affair — which Denise has denied. Sources were split on why Denise was out. One told Page Six she wasn't returning because she wanted an "excessive" amount of money and Bravo wasn't on board. "[Bravo] didn't want to pay her what she asked for. It was way out of her pay grade," said the source. A different source, who is close to Denise, told Page Six that "Bravo called her last week to ask her if she wanted to return, and she took a couple of days to think about it." However, by Sept. 9, according to the source, Denise's agent had relayed to the network that she was moving on from the show. Bravo executive Andy Cohen weighed in on the situation, telling People TV's "Reality Check," "I'm just upset that we couldn't reach an agreement for next season, I'm kind of living in that sadness." He continued, "We were negotiating a deal with her and we couldn't reach an agreement on the deal." Then on Sept. 22, "RHOBH" cast member Teddi Mellencamp confirmed that she would not be returning after three seasons. "I recently found out that my contract as a housewife is not being renewed," she said in an Instagram video, adding that "It feels like a breakup."
Kathy Hilton is in talks to join "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills"
On Sept. 17, TMZ reported that Kathy Hilton is in talks to join "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" as a "friend of the show." While a decision has yet to be made, Kathy — who's also known as Paris and Nicky Hilton's mom — is reportedly considering the offer and is "definitely interested." This wouldn't be Kathy's first time appearing on the reality show: She's the sister of current star Kyle Richards and former cast member Kim Richards and has appeared on the series many times over its run.
NeNe Leakes confirms departure from "The Real Housewives of Atlanta"
On Sept. 17, NeNe Leakes announced via her YouTube channel that she was parting ways with "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" following what she described as "emotional negotiations" with the show's network, Bravo. "There's been a lot of emotions on both sides," said NeNe, according to ETonline. "It's been hard and I have made a hard, difficult decision to not be part of 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' season 13." Speculation surrounding her potential departure from the series was fueled after she told "ET" that she would notify fans herself if "negotiations don't work out." NeNe reminisced about her time on "RHOA," explaining, "I'm just so happy that I can say that I was part of a genre that opened up a door for Black ensemble reality shows." She went on, "I want to thank everybody that has looked up to me over the years. …I want to thank Bravo for all the memories. …Thank you to the cast for all of the memories."
Jim Carrey to play Joe Biden on "Saturday Night Live"
"Saturday Night Live" has found their new Joe Biden in Jim Carrey! On Sept. 16, the acclaimed late night sketch-comedy show announced that Jim would be portraying Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden on the show's 46th season, which debuts Oct. 3. Woody Harrelson and Jason Sudeikis previously played Joe. "SNL" creator Lorne Michaels weighed in on the decision to cast Jim, telling Vulture, "There was some interest on his part. And then we responded, obviously, positively. But it came down to discussions about what the take was. He and [head writer] Colin Jost had a bunch of talks. He and I as well. He will give the part energy and strength, and… Hopefully, it's funny."
Season 29 of ABC's "Dancing With the Stars" premieres, viewership up 30% from last season
Another season of ABC's "Dancing With the Stars" is officially underway, and the premiere proved to be a major success for the network. Season 29 of the reality dance competition series — which includes celebrity contestants like "Selling Sunset" luxury realtor Chrishell Stause, Bachelor Nation alum Kaitlyn Bristowe (pictured) and "Tiger King" star Carole Baskin — averaged 8.1 million viewers for its premiere episode — a 30% jump in viewership in comparison to last season. The good news doesn't stop there: The premiere was also the highest rated "DWTS" premiere since 2017! "DWTS" airs on ABC every Monday night at 8 p.m.
"Stranger Things" actor David Harbour marries singer Lily Allen
On Sept. 7, "Stranger Things" actor David Harbour and "Smile" hitmaker Lily Allen tied the knot! The ceremony, which took place in Las Vegas and was officiated by an Elvis Presley impersonator, was small and private. "In a wedding officiated by the king himself, the people's princess wed her devoted, low born, but kind credit card holder in a beautiful ceremony lit by the ashen skies courtesy of a burning state miles away in the midst of a global pandemic," David wrote on Instagram alongside a slideshow of wedding photos and a pic of them enjoying fast food burgers with Lily's daughters from a previous marriage. "Refreshments were served at a small reception following." Lily also posted a series of photos. The wedding took place just one day after the newlyweds obtained their marriage license.
"Iron Chef" star Cat Cora files for restraining order against ex-wife, accuses her of trying to "destroy" her
Former "Iron Chef" star Cat Cora is seeking a restraining order against her ex-wife amid claim's she's out to "destroy my life at any cost." Cat's divorce from Jennifer Cora was finalized in 2016. It marked the end of their two-year marriage and 17-year relationship. Cat described the situation to Page Six as "a nightmare that I can't wake up from." She continued, "It's cyber-stalking, mental and emotional distress and abuse." Cat claims that Jennifer, with whom she shares four sons, is "such an uncooperative co-parent." The "My Kitchen Rules" star's current wife, music executive Nicole Ehrlich, compared Jennifer to notorious murderer Ted Bundy, telling Page Six that "her power and happiness comes from making Cat miserable."
"South Park" to air hour-long coronavirus pandemic special
Comedy Central announced that "South Park" will air a one-hour show entitled "The Pandemic Special" on Sept. 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. What will happen on the episode? According to the network, it will show Randy coming to grips with his supposed role in the coronavirus pandemic and how it has impacted the lives of those residing in South Park. As the kids return to school, they quickly learn that life as they know it won't be resuming any time soon. "The Pandemic Special" is written and executive produced by creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, who've had a hand in the creation of every "South Park" episode since its inception in 1997.
"Last Week Tonight With John Oliver" wins fifth Emmy in a row, is renewed through 2023
In September, HBO confirmed it had renewed the late night satire series "Last Week Tonight With John Oliver" through 2023. John, who's led the show for seven seasons already, weighed in on the news, quipping, "We're all extremely happy to be able to continue to do our show on HBO for another three years, or until the end of the world, whichever comes first." The renewal was a smart move: The show won its fifth trophy in a row for outstanding talk series at the 2020 Emmys on Sept. 20.
Disney Channel alum Ashley Tisdale is expecting her first child
Congratulations are in order! On Sept. 17, former Disney Channel star Ashley Tisdale announced via Instagram that she and musician-composer husband Christopher French are expecting their first child! The "High School Musical" star shared photos of her growing baby bump. "Just the freaking cutest," commented former co-star Vanessa Hudgens. Haylie Duff added, "Been waiting for this!!! ✨✨✨✨ can't wait! Best mama & papa combo!"
Al Roker and Deborah Roberts celebrate 25th wedding anniversary
On Sept. 16, famed TV weather reporter Al Roker took to Instagram to post an adorable video of himself and ABC News reporter Deborah Roberts at their nuptials back in 1995 in celebration of their 25th wedding anniversary. "A #happy25thanniversary to @debrobertsabc who helps me a better #father #brother #person and challenges me to do better each and every day. #thankyou and #iloveyou," Al captioned the video. He later posted a clip from "The Flintstones" that shows Fred Flintstone singing "Happy Anniversary" to Wilma. "Ohhhh, Happy Anniversary," he wrote on Instagram. "After #25years #happyanniversary to @debrobertsabc who is #wilmaflintstone to my #fredflintstone who everyone knows #marriedup." Similarly, Deborah also took to Instagram to celebrate their milestone day. "Dear Sweet Hubby, I remember this magical moment of pure joy (almost) like it was yesterday. It couldn't possibly have been 25 years ago. Could it??" she wrote alongside photos of their wedding day. "25 years of love, laughter, peaks, valleys, discovery, bewilderment, bliss, struggle and all that this journey offers. But through it all we've tried to remember those beautiful and profound words spoken at our wedding. 'Love is patient, love is kind…it bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.'" She continued, "Today I celebrate all that love has allowed. Happy Anniversary my sweet, kind, generous, hilarious and real soulmate. Love, Deb." Al and Deborah share two children, Leila and Nicholas; Al also has a daughter, Courtney, from a previous marriage.
Bachelor Nation exes Nick Viall and Vanessa Grimaldi reunite
Who says exes can't be civil? Nick Viall and Vanessa Grimaldi, who got engaged on "The Bachelor" in 2017 and ended their romance that same year, reunited on Nick's new Patreon series, "Nick V Talks Trash TV: A Bachelor and His Exes Tell All," marking the first time they'd seen each other since calling it quits. "We just weren't able to match or meet each other halfway," Vanessa said of their breakup, according to E! News, "although we thought we were." The former couple assumed their relationship would improve after the show ended, but that wasn't the case. "We would always hear, 'Everyone fights while it's airing, everyone does,'" said Nick. "'Once the season's over, it's going to get better.' And it just didn't for us." Nick did note, however, that he and Vanessa experienced a brief moment of happiness when he was competing on "Dancing With the Stars." "That was the one thing we both enjoyed," he said. "Once 'Dancing with the Stars' was done, we were like, 'Oh, it wasn't because of 'The Bachelor' that we can't get along.'" According to Vanessa, they also thought that a trip to Mexico for Carly Waddell and Evan Bass's wedding in June 2017 could help fix their relationship, but it didn't. "I actually thought, 'Huh, maybe like a romantic getaway is going to have us reconnect to one another," she said. "..it didn't." Nick and Vanessa have remained on good terms over the years, with Nick even congratulating Vanessa on her recent engagement to Josh Wolfe. "Well thank God I followed you back a week ago to hear this news," Nick commented on Vanessa's engagement reveal on Instagram. "Congrats to you two! Lucky guy."
Jaden Smith's Snapchat series about racial injustice and voting premieres
On Sept. 21, Jaden Smith's Snapchat original series, "The Solution Committee," premiered on the social media app. The series, which debuted one day before National Voter Registration Day, focuses on activists and celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Yara Shahidi and Lena Waithe as they explore racial and social injustice in addition to urging younger audiences to vote. "Historically, people between the ages of 18 to 23 have been less likely to vote," said Jaden in a statement. "This is because a lot of young people feel like they don't have the information or know where to get it. This show is about educating the youth and making sure they feel empowered and ready to vote." Each episode also incorporates a feature that allows viewers to swipe up to see links that can help them register to vote.
New Darren Star series "Emily in Paris" starring Lily Collins releases new trailer
On Sept. 16, Netflix released a new trailer for the latest Darren Star show, "Emily in Paris," which stars Lily Collins. The series chronicles the titular character's life following her decision to relocate to Paris after accepting a new job as a marketing executive at a French firm. "Say oui to possibility! The official @EmilyinParis trailer has arrived to remind you that we launch on October 2, only on @netflix. SO soon!…," wrote Lily on Instagram alongside the official trailer. Darren is the creative mind behind beloved series like "Beverly Hills, 90210," "Melrose Place," "Sex and the City," and "Younger."
