Hm... I think that after 400 push-ups for him in a day we should perhaps feel a little sorry for her at night... ;-)

(Evelyn) "Character actors" usually aren't as concerned with their appearance ;-) True, but I heard there was a really juicy role for a "stuttering masturbatory village pervert" but he had to have buff bod. ;-)

Harummph. IMO the author that 'podgy Darcy' comment was confusing CF with the actors who played Mr. Hurst and Sir William Lucas. Am honestly amazed that anyone could consider CF overweight (out of shape, perhaps, but this guy's usually a walking string bean, for cryin' out loud). I never thought he looked even close to chubby, chunky or even 'filled out' in anything I've seen. If there wasn't a picture with that article, I would stay true to form and doubt its truthfulness. However, there he is, displaying his trademark arm drape (notice no shoulder clutch--gesture obviously reserved for females *or* triceps are now too big ;-)). Originally it was reported that he lost 2 stone, or 28 lbs. That was outrageous. I agree with Gi, though, even 1 stone is a stretch (unless he ate like a madman while in LA post-3DOR. Heck, everyone knows they subsist on nuts and sprouts out there ;-). Well, perhaps it was a steady diet of Starbucks sweet rolls, frappucinos and fruit smoothies). (Emma) however, I would love to see the 6-pack stomach. Oh, my, my, my! As if I needed additional inducement to get me to see BJ... And the exercise and better diet is certainly a good thing. Absolutely. I also agree with the turning 40 influence. Happens to the best of us! (Karen) Interesting that Colin said, "top actor." Indeed. But in thinking about it, it sounds a bit Bridgetesque--in manner of top human rights lawyer. Good for you, Emma, to keep those FP fires burning. I'll try to get down there for another matinee this week (hopefully it won't take 2 hrs. to get home like it did last week :-(). I'll be in touch.

One thing I'm not clear on: the article says he was "put through a punishing three-month fitness regime," but then it quotes Chin as saying he was "called in a couple of weeks before filming started, so it was a rush job." Which is it?? 14 pounds in 2 weeks? I wonder if diuretics were involved . . .;-) Surely Chin-ups were in the picture.;-) Mr. Darcy "podgy?" Sorry, but he looked a helluva lot better than Cornel! No wonder these poor actors and actresses get skewed ideas about body weight. I do think CF's weight tends to fluctuate. He was so thin at the Donmar in January; didn't he head for LA afterwards? One can only assume he spent the rest of the winter plopped on the beach, loading up on Margeritas and Mexican grub.;-) Yum. And now this is a "lifelong commitment"? What is Italy without vino, braziole, and cannolis? Honestly, is life worth living??;-)

(Mari) One thing I'm not clear on: the article says he was "put through a punishing three-month fitness regime," but then it quotes Chin as saying he was "called in a couple of weeks before filming started, so it was a rush job." Which is it?? To my recollection, CF was not confirmed in the role until late April--that fits with the 'couple of weeks before filming' comment. Cornel probably worked with him throughout the shoot, ergo 'three months'. Men generally drop weight faster than women, but I'll bet those washboard abs didn't appear after only two weeks, even with 400 situps a day. *sigh* Washboard abs...how many more days until BJ opens in the states??

Hmmm, wonder if Dylan Thomas was buff.;-) From FOF Rai: South Wales Evening Post August 3, 2000 HEADLINE: Film cameras ready to roll on love story Dylan and Caitlin inspire Rolling Stone's movie BYLINE: By Deborah Williams WORK is due to start on rock legend Mick Jagger's GBP 10million film about the turbulent love affair between Dylan and Caitlin Thomas. Swansea, Carmarthenshire and New York will provide the backdrop for The Map of Love being produced by the Rolling Stone's Jagged Films. Scenes will be shot at locations across Carmarthenshire and Swansea with the full co-operation of both county councils. Jagger, an avid Dylan Thomas fan, has wanted to make the love story for some time. Speaking from Los Angeles, Jagger said: "It's ready. I've been wanting to do it for years but now everything is coming together and we hope filming will start this year." Locations likely to be used include the Boat House where Dylan lived in Laugharne and the house in Cwmdonkin Terrace, Swansea, where he was born.Dylan's favourite drink-ing haunts including Brown's Hotel at Laugharne, the Uplands Tavern in Swansea and seafront bars in Mumbles will probably feature. Fern Hill, a six-bedroomed house at Llangain still owned by Dylan's relatives, is likely to be included. Actors tipped to play Dylan include Port Talbot's Michael Sheen, whose tangled hair and Celtic looks have made him a front-runner for the role. Others include Rufus Sewell, whose family live in Laugharne, Rhys Ifans, Rupert Everett, COLIN FIRTH and Gary Oldman, while Oscar-nominee Emily Watson is hotly tipped to play Caitlin. Script-writer Chris Monger has based the film on Dylan and Caitlin's relationship from their marriage in 1937 through to the poet's death in America. Pontarddulais-born Victoria Pear-man, who runs Jagged Films, said: "This is a project I have really been looking forward to."

(Eileen) To my recollection, CF was not confirmed in the role until late April--that fits with the 'couple of weeks before filming' comment. Cornel probably worked with him throughout the shoot, ergo 'three months'. Yep, I think you're right, Eileen. Maybe they saved the filming of the "hot scenes" 'til the end of CF's shooting, when new bod would be in place.;-) Oh, how I dearly hope there are hot scenes . . .where's Judy???;-) (Eileen) *sigh* Washboard abs...how many more days until BJ opens in the states?? Double *sigh* . . . only 179 if you believe the 2/2 date. Wonder if they'll open it in England first.

(Mari) One can only assume he spent the rest of the winter plopped on the beach, loading up on Margeritas and Mexican grub.;-) Think he's missing the KFC? Others include Rufus Sewell, whose family live in Laugharne, Rhys Ifans, Rupert Everett, COLIN FIRTH and Gary Oldman... Dylan Thomas!! Woo woo!! That's been on my little list for a long time. Think I even posted side-by-side pics of the two of them. But Colin might be a little too fit for this role. Needs his old, podgy face back, I'm afraid. ;-) turbulent love affair It's got my vote.

Ladies I have to admire you,while you're debating the time scale of his diet & fitness regime my thoughts have been in the gutter.What with 6-pack stomach, press-ups & muscles,I've a haze over my eyes,I'm panting & ready for it!! Can't wait for the towel scene especially since he's built up muscle,how's he going to keep it covered,it'll be popping out all over the place & my eyes with it! 'lardy Darcy' How do these people get their jobs? have they forgotten the heady Darcy days?He was theideal man now he's referred to as fat,greasy piece ofdripping.Can't you tell it was written by a jealous man

(Judy) 'lardy Darcy' How do these people get their jobs? have they forgotten the heady Darcy days?He was theideal man now he's referred to as fat,greasy piece of dripping. LOL! Too true. It's not as though everyone was fanning themselves over his thighs whilst groaning over the size of his beer belly. Can't you tell it was written by a jealous man Or quotes from one who is motivated by self-promotion in manner of Jake-whatshisname-Hollywood bodybuilder has-been. Keep your eyes peeled for 'Body by Cornel' videos. (Karen) Think I even posted side-by-side pics of the two of them. I remember.

(Eileen) 'Body by Cornel' videos,what a hoot! If it promises to make men look like CF then I'll be the first to buy it for my hubby.

Have at last ventured to put my foot in the water and join in. I will start by showing my ignorance and asking what exactly is a six pack stomach? Please enlighten me.

Jennie!! Nice to have you with us. Drop in frequently and ask as many questions as you like. what exactly is a six pack stomach? Aside from what we'd all love to have? ;-) In the US, we'd be more likely to refer to it as washboard abs (although is there anyone out there who has seen a washboard other than in old Ma and Pa Kettle movies?) Just means a very tight, hard and flat stomach which is necessary to balance a six pack on!

I didn't see anything wrong with his tum as displayed in THOTP and Playmaker; no beer belly that I could see! Admittedly he was a little plump round the middle in FF (Just enough to make him cuddly!) but otherwise ........

Hi Jennie, Glad you found us and welcome. Karen is our super-sleuth, so if there is anything to know you will find it here, for sure. Check out the other topics as well, it is well worth it!

While I admit a Cornel & Friends Sweating to the Oldies video sounds like something I'd very much like to own/watch, have found something else: http://www.clickmango.com/wisdom/ten_things_2a.shtml

Hello Jennie its great to have you aboard. Mmm glad to see we're talking about his body again, biology lessons seem to be the norm around here.Now about that tum I've never had a problem with it, always thought my head could go where he rests his six-pack.But have to confess the thought of his work-outs has whetted my appetite, BTW I've never seen a six-pack in England (& that goes for the beer as well;-D )

Karen you never fail to amaze me -now we can all exercise like Colin does.

It's always good to hear from a newbie, Jennie welcome! (Judy) BTW I've never seen a six-pack in England (& that goes for the beer as well;-D ) Agreed, the average British male has a lot to live up to! I too cannot see where the whole 'lardy' Darcy podgy-ness comes in, I'm sure we all droolfully recall his silhouetted form marching forth towards Pemberley post swim....and there was certainly not an inch to pinch! Mr Hurst....now that's what I call a 'lard-arse'. (Whoops pot/kettle scenario alert!) In MOTM he was slightly fuller in the face and arms, but hardly what could be termed 'lardy'....in fact I would go as far as to say that in a lot of what he has done (I'm thinking HOTP in particular), he looks as if he could have done with several helpings of my famous icecream or have undergone a bit of the RZ treatment;-D

is there anyone out there who has seen a washboard other than in old Ma and Pa Kettle movies? Not only seen, but used one as well. a very tight, hard and flat stomach which is necessary to balance a six pack on! No, no, no - nothing to do with balancing. A six pack is six cans of beer clamped together in two rows, so that they can be carried as one unit. A well developed, lean, muscular abdomen usually has three layers of tight muscle visible on each side of the navel. It's a simile.

Arami, you have clearly been very spoiled you lucky thing!

I take it you are referring to the washboard, not the six pack? Yes, I remember it with tears in my eyes (it bloody hurt my knuckles!)

(Tracy)'lard-arse'. (Whoops pot/kettle scenario alert!)LOL I suffer with you my symtoms include too many dimples all in the wrong places. Tell me about your ice cream please?

I agree with Arami. I've always thought "six pack" referred to the 3 "lumps" of muscle visible on each side of the vertical line. They are only visible when extraneous fat isn't there. Not speaking from personal experience of course... Hmmm....can't even picture CF with a six-pack. May not be able to stand the wait until 2/00 *slurp*

Thank you, anatomical whizzes. I stand corrected. Perhaps was recent rereading of BJD when, during horrendous minibreak, Daniel tells Bridget that guys want someone on whose bottom they can balance a pint of beer. Oh so confusing ;-) Perhaps you should start using a rock by the river...

In that photo with Cornel he didn't look any different.in fact it reminded me of the kitchen scene in FP with dark t-shirt (I trust it's a new one Colin) More than likely six-pack is an exaggeration by the press,who in their usual ignorance are confusing keeping fit with body-building.

(Judy)Tell me about your ice cream please? With hindsight am not sure that I should talk about ice-cream and CF in the same sentence.....since am sure it will send you into a severe bout of un-necessariness (note to self...not to use words like 'smearing' and 'nibbling' unless sure emergency services on stand-by up North!) ;-D Needless to say my ice-cream has enough calories in it to harden the arteries of the entire Home Counties. It has mainly two ingredients...namely cream and er, well yes ice! Particular faves are brown bread, and banana...all the better for smearing o.......*author faints into pool of drool*

This six pack thing will not show on a normal body when the abdomen is relaxed: it requires the bodybuilding technique of displaying tensed muscles to make them really visible. Or years of weight lifting. Or a lifetime of sit-ups. Has anyone got a snappy of the near-full frontal from Playmaker handy?

Oh no! Its too much - with my imagination running riot over the exercise routine and now this!

Well whose going to be first in the queue to feel this new firm stomach? All in the line of research, of course. Move your head Judy it's time for another biology lesson. On another note ... Now that the filming of BJD must be almost finished (apart from HG's retakes) has anyone heard definitely what ODB 's next project is? I know there have been rumours about Armadillo, The Maid of Butterworth and more recently Tony Blair and now Dylan Thomas, but hopefully, he will have something to come back to after the summer break.

(Jennie) Move your head Judy it's time for another biology lesson. Okay I've moved my head,lower,now Tracy pass the ice cream,what was it smear & nibble?IAm I doing all right Jennie any tips gratefully received*passed out in Tracy's pool of drool* it's big enough for the both of us*snort*

(Arami)Hm... I think that after 400 push-ups for him in a day we should perhaps feel a little sorry for her at night... ;-) LOL! How right you probably are... (Karen) is there anyone out there who has seen a washboard other than in old Ma and Pa Kettle movies? (Arami)Not only seen, but used one as well. Same here. (Arami)This six pack thing will not show on a normal body when the abdomen is relaxed: it requires the bodybuilding technique of displaying tensed muscles to make them really visible. Or years of weight lifting. Or a lifetime of sit-ups. Not true :-) My first boyfriend (when we were twenty) had it, and he didn't do any of those. And my DH can sport very decent abs after a couple of weeks of exercising (a pity he doesn't do it more often...)

New BBC Autumn schedule announced on Ceefax, no DQ but then not all dramas mentioned.

Welcome, Jennie! So nice to see you here. Arami, this is the best I could do: http://members.xoom.com/firth_place/playmaker.html

(Me)This six pack thing will not show on a normal body ... (Gi) Not true :-) Oh, well, must've been looking at the wrong body... :-) This one, perhaps? ;-D http://members.xoom.com/firth_place/playmaker.html ???

Blackadder Back & Forth 'coming soon' to Sky1 that usually means within 2-4 weeks!

Blackadder Back & Forth 'coming soon' to Sky1 Is that the Dome one? Pay attention....blink and he's gone;-) Mari/Arami that Playmaker(AKA "I Did it for the Money") website is a hoot. He looks pretty trim there....before all the Bruschettas and Calzones, no doubt.

Hello everyone, it's good to be back. Lardy Darcy indeed! *joins in general scoffing* What nerve! His weight may fluctuate a little, but I agree that he really only needed to tone up, unless he was on the RZ Health Plan just before getting signed on! I think the problem is that his beautiful face does not love the camera as much as some, less-goodlooking actors. It would take a sensitive cinematographer to do him full justice. I am more than willing to learn the technical aspects required.... (Arami)Hm... I think that after 400 push-ups for him in a day we should perhaps feel a little sorry for her at night... ;-) In article (as opposed to Murph's witty poem) it is 400 sit-ups by day. That leaves plenty of room for 400 push-ups by night! I don't feel any sympathy at all. ;-) (Karen) Interesting that Colin said, "top actor." (Eileen) Indeed. But in thinking about it, it sounds a bit Bridgetesque--in manner of top human rights lawyer. LOL Eileen, too funny, and a v. endearing thought of ODB. (Karen)Perhaps was recent rereading of BJD when, during horrendous minibreak, Daniel tells Bridget that guys want someone on whose bottom they can balance a pint of beer. Oh so confusing ;-) LOL, Karen, sounds reasonable to me! Welcome Jennie! LOL Judy and Tracy! Going all unnecessary sure is necessary. Glad for such dreamy creamy discussions. (Yes, all smutty implications intended!) Enjoyed Playmaker site --- and sight! Thanks Mari and Arami. V. funny mantra too.

(Sadie) his beautiful face does not love the camera asmuch as some,less good-looking actors.I don't want to agree with you on that one but I have to,the photowith Cornel hardly does him justice. I'm sat with the article in front of me & it definitely says press-ups.I've only read the on-line version once& can't remember the exact wording but I presume it says sit-ups with all the discussion about it. I can relate to you not feeling any sympathy for her I'm only a pale shade of green if I think she's going without;-D 'Dreamy creamy' yum yum I'm feeling hungry again.

Yeah, I think that some of the most loved by the camera stars, actually look a little strange in real life. Of course, I have never seen CF in real life, but enough of him in different shots to know when I'm looking at a badly angled one. But perhaps those fortunate Droolers who have met him could tell us how he looks in person?

The exact wording from the article is "Firth built a muscular physique with an intensive weight-training programme and press-ups, and developed a six-pack stomach with 400 sit-ups a day. He lost a stone in weight with a diet of pasta, poultry, fish, cereal, rice, milk and water. So poor chap is doing both sit-ups and press-ups. Shouldn't think he knows whether he is coming or going. I must say I agree with Judy, don't think the photo does him justice, his neck looks a bit scraggy too!

Oh not the neck. Can photographers do nothing right! (Have you checked out Darcy Drool, Jennie? We discussed his neck there.

I'm glad somebody pays attention & reads properly,I have a one track mind and couldn't get past those press-ups. Scraggy neck,scraggy neck- only because between us we've sucked all the blood out-lust bites you know

Do you think he ever feels drained as result of all our objectification? I sometimes feel guilty.

(Sadie)But perhaps those fortunate Droolers who have met him could tell us how he looks in person? Nurse, the smelling salts...I feel a faint coming on! *sigh, crash, huge bout of un-necessariness* Believe me he doesn't look at all strange in real life and I'm sure my fortunate co-Donmar Droolers will concur. Unfortunately the photo of the occasion doesn't do either of us any favours. It's not so much what he looks like but more how he carries himself...(ladies please!)..and how he interacts with us mere drool-sodden mortals. And oh that voice, he was v. polite and v gracious and not at all annoyed at the stumbling, stuttering fool in front of him (i.e. me) who was totally unable to string two sentences together. One thing that struck me ( apart from the apalling dress sense which we all adore him for) was that he is much taller than he seems on screen and appears only to willing to profer a strong arm round the shoulder/neck of the unsuspecting Firthette. Unexpected but by no means unwelcome :-~~~ Ok, I'll stop now *calming down*

Oh Tracy, I'm torn between a sigh and an Ummmmmmm! He is built a little like Clarke Gable, tall but not scrawny, hence taller than you think. Do you know, that when Gable first began, they used to place people up on boxes around him for a shot, because tall wasn't in! Yes, a box to stand on would be the v. thing! Am clearly over my guilt!

Tracy I envy you.I can't imagine you being unable to string two sentences together he must have really got to you. 'carries himself' you know I'm a lady please explain fully. Did he touch your neck,oh tell me he didn't I couldn't cope-this neck touching of his must be a subliminal message to all his fans.

A box ,oh no, I just swing from his neck by my teeth scrumptious!

But if you play too roughly, the DB will be in no kind of shape to respond. Drain the essence, in true Vampire fashion, but leave some alive for the rest of us! ;-D

Judy, I know it is hard to believe but I was literally reduced to a blancmange. I had all this stuff I was going to say about the subtle nuances of the play and how well the audience received it but all I remember saying (and I have a witness - she too is astounded that I was speechless) was in a very bad HG type of way "Thanks...that er...was er.....great!" Absolutely priceless - how to impress someone in one easy lesson! Yes I'm sorry to break the awful truth to you, gently does it, am afraid that the neck was touched....you should try it sometime..just get within a reasonable proximity and I'm sure he'll oblige, he seems very free with his attentions! Subliminal message *Pfft* one can only dream *drool*. Here we go again!

Oh I cannot take any more neck conversations. Where is my chocolate? Film Gods be damned (as opposed to film stars). Struth, but I've got to go, this has been one long Firth Feeding Frenzy! Thanks you guys! Now can face the rest of my unpacking.

Tracy you're only human & I don't want you to impresshim anyway,I'm glad you made an idiot of yourself;-) Even more so when you say he's touched your neck, I bet you've not washed it yet,can I touch your neck as well just to touch somewhere that Colin has. Whenever I'm at Lyme I sit in the same spot as him, its the nearest I'll ever get to his bum.*splash* I'm in that pond again.

With a bit of luck that's exactly what I'll be doing sometime next week! Sitting by the pond that is, not touching him bum! Can me madcap and crazy but I have washed, you know going since January without a bit of a scrub is a bit off-putting in the dating stakes. But the coat I was wearing has not seen Surf since and still have the pen he touched *sigh*! You can fondle my coat with pleasure :-D

It might be muddy by that pond its not stopped raining here for days & days. Pass me your coat & I should have known he touched your pen you write so well. I'm off as well hubby says he wouldn't mind if I talked to him tonight as well,I'm even allowed to talk about Colin if thats what it takes!

Welcome Jennie. I hope that you enjoy yourself here.

Judy, I forgot to mention how lucky you are, to be so close to Lyme (and certain bums). Did you manage to see anything of the shoot back in '95? LOL! Glad to hear you have washed, Tracy. Otherwise, on a second encounter with ODB, he might not be so charming! Am getting v. confused, what with all this drooling. But it was this board where possible Dyan Thomas role was mentioned?....and an hour and a half later! Arggh! I've been searching for a way to send email to Jagged Films. No luck yet! Anybody know how to find an index of Film Companies? Lots of Mick fan sites, but no links.

(Judy) I don't want to agree with you on that one but I have to,the photowith Cornel hardly does him justice. You mentioned this twice, so that photo must be bothering you. What, you want him to pose with his arms flexed over his head, in manner of Rocky Balboa clutching pipe while talking to Adrienne in his apartment? ;-) Am v.v. curious to see this new bod. Am still amazed at necessity for words 'flab' and 'Colin Firth' in same sentence.

(Sadie) Arggh! I've been searching for a way to send email to Jagged Films. No luck yet! Anybody know how to find an index of Film Companies? Unfortunately, it's usually not so easy. The big studios and indie distributors can be found on such listings. To find Jagged Films, you're going to have to do some phoning (LD and v. LD) around. No signs of a website yet, and email is usually ignored. If you're serious, I'll send you a phone number or two to start with...

Firstly a quick thanks to you lot. My doctor went into hospital last night to have our first baby and rang me this morning in tears and very upset as she was coping so badly. I felt terrible being too far away to comfort her so I keyed into Drool and felt so much better after reading your comments and having a laugh. Am now a grandmother - baby boy 8lbs 1oz, called Samuel. Judy, am envious of your close proximity to Lyme. Usually try and get up there a couple of times a year and have a walk in the park (you can guess my route) Where you a fan before P&P and therefore managed to see some of the shoot?

You can see how excited I am that should read daughter and not doctor!!

Congrats Jennie. And v. glad all is well! (Karen)To find Jagged Films, you're going to have to do some phoning (LD and v. LD) around. No signs of a website yet, and email is usually ignored. If you're serious, I'll send you a phone number or two to start with... Yes, please email me with phone numbers. Thanks. V. Funny gif!

Congratulations Grandma Jennie! and a belated Welcome! :-)

Jennie congratulations,did she not consider Colin as a name;-) My son has just got a new budgie(not quite the same thing I know) and won't let me call him ColinI think we need to promote it as a sexy,heart-throbbysort of name,starting with babies & budgies!Am I talking nonsense again? Sadie & Jennie.I've been a P&P fan since a teenager & a CF fan since Tumbledown.At the time of filming the publicity in the local newspapers & on local TV was amazing however not once did they mention CF aagh scream,shout,having a tantrum now at thought of lostopportunity.I still kick myself over not just going to see the shoot anyway,if I had known nothing would have kept me away especially since I've been visiting the park since early childhood & know all the back entrances.My hubby still taunts me with it to this day,he was ready to take me,You can't call me anything I've not already called myself;-) (Eileen) You mentioned this twice,so that photo must be bothering you.Hmn I hadn't thought about it in thatway but I think it must be bothering me.I suppose its because of the way they're talking about him.I've never read anything like this before and I don't think just because he's getting fit that they should start saying unflattering things about him.There are some wonderful photos of him around,I know they showed a large photo of Darcy,I just wished they'd showed another photo of him in real-life.It didn't help that this photo didn't match what they were saying about his new look. Now about this pose you were talking about,I've neverwatched a Rocky movie,but I presume it would show his finely honed musculature to perfection?

Fever Pitch Update--finally heard from Phaedra today. Here's the scoop: --It's being released on video in the U.S. on November 21 by Trimark. Until then, they're still trying to book it theatrically, but obviously will have to cut it off soon in advance of video. --They're "getting very nice numbers in Virginia" (well done Emma and Eileen!), and it's possible the run may be extended there for a third week. --LA area is definite for September: Palm Springs September 8; LA/Laemmle Sunset 5 booked for September 9 & 10 (and maybe beyond); Laemmle Santa Monica opens September 16; Pasadena Playhouse opens September 23. --Chicago and Philadelphia are "other possibilities." Dallas unlikely.

Congratulations, Jennie! What wonderful news. My best wishes for everyone's health and happiness. Bet you and hubby can't wait to start spoiling the little guy (it's called grandparental prerogative:-)!

Dallas unlikely. Boo hiss....and they gave MLSF a good reception at the box office. Post the FP "fixture list" on V V ,Mari. Lots of CF fans over there.

Congratulations Jennie, and very best wishes to Mum and Dad and of course, little Samuel.(mustn't forget Grandad)

Well done, Emma & Eileen!! Don't take those billboards off your cars. Another week? Incredible. Wonderful news, Mari. Thanks for asking the brain trust about *other* cities. Think I'll stop by my new arthouse and ask to talk to a grownup manager about requested bookings. ;-) And congratulations, Jennie, to your daughter and her husband and the proud grandparents.

Chaps, chaps, I was ROTFLMAO and PIMPing myself reading some of your recent exchanges above... Good, good - keep it coming - LOL! Who was that wanted to fondle something touched by Colin? I can offer two - yes, two - pens and the fingers of my right hand... sadly, well scrubbed now, but the memory will never fade... :-)

Oh, and congratulations, Jennie!

May I too add my warmest congratulations to you and yours Jennie!

Thanks, everyone, for your congratulations, off to see the little chap today. Unfortunately, Judy they would not consider Colin as a suitable name anymore than for your son's budgie. It (Colin) seems to have had a very short life as a popular name over here. Was looking it up in the dictionary of First names recently and they said it was a favourite in the 50s, actually mentioned ODB in their section on personalities with this name and his was the last one mentioned (birthdate wise), others included Colin Davies and Colin Cowdrey who are much older. Does anyone know whether he has a second Christian name?

Thank goodness I have finally found a fellow Firthian, because this is my first time.

As a follow-up to Judy's notice, this is from Sky's press release of 9 August, announcing its autumn schedule highlights: Blackadder is a comedy phenomenon of the last decade, and Sky One viewers can see a reunion of the original cast and writing team (Ben Elton and Richard Curtis) specially commissioned for Skyscape at the Millennium Dome. Blackadder Back and Forth takes Rowan Atkinson, Stephen Fry, Tim McInnerny, Hugh Laurie, Miranda Richardson and - as Baldrick - Tony Robinson on a chaotic journey across centuries of British history. BTW, Shakespeare in Love will also be on Sky. Octavia Join in our discussion. Tell us what brought you here.

WELCOME OCTAVIA We're always glad to have another Firthian on board....Stick around and join the fun. Why didn't Blackadder mention Shakespeare!

(Octavia) Thank goodness I have finally found a fellow Firthian You haven't found one, you've found a whole bunch from all around the world. Welcome! (Karen) Well done, Emma & Eileen!! Don't take those billboards off your cars. Hee hee! Er, thanks for the credit, but it should all go to Emma. I've only been to see it once--doubt my five clams made much of a difference. Hopefully it will run next week and I can get down to Fairfax again. (Judy) Hmn I hadn't thought about it in thatway but I think it must be bothering me.I suppose its because of the way they're talking about him.I've never read anything like this before and I don't think just because he's getting fit that they should start saying unflattering things about him. Ooh, I was just teasing. I do agree, however, with what you're saying to a certain extent--believe moreso that it's merely publicity. We take it personally on behalf of ODB but thrust (know you like that word) of piece is 'CF has sexy new body so come see it in BJD...and if you're rich, famous and in need of a personal trainer, Cornel's your man.

Welcome Octavia,its nice to know you're not alone in the world isn't? (Jennie) I was looking it up in a dictionary of First names recently...ah I understand you've got it bad;-) I know he's not a usual cast member but for my sake couldn't they have mentioned him as a special guest. As for the SIL premier hubby thinks I'm mad watching it when I've got it on video,What he doesn't know is that I got it on pay-per-view as well,well it does save my bought copy! (Eileen) Ooh, I was only teasing,oops I do seem to have left my sense of humour elsewhere while reading that article;-)I would like to believe that it's only publicity but perhaps it could have been better written. 'thrust( know you like that word) I had hoped that nobody would notice my dirty mind.But since you've given me leave it does conjour up some pleasant thoughts,Firth's thrusting press-ups thrusts him forth,up & in *crash* (Arami)Who was that wanted to fondle something touched by Colin? I can offer two-yes,two-pens and the fingers of my right hand. Life's so unfair now thrust them in my direction so I can have a fondle!

You want to fondle my hand??? I knew that was asking for trouble...

Welcome Octavia! It is nice to have a place like this isn't it. Keep hearing that Cheers tune: "You want to go where everyone knows his name". That is the lyric, isn't it? I've been wondering when Blackadder would surface. I didn't realize that Richard Curtis was on the original writing team. My respect just went way up! But how does that explain his descent into Hugh Grant films?(That nasty comment was for your enjoyment Judy ;-)) It's a bit like going from Monty Python to Three's Company. Oh horrors, you don't suppose...But cannot imagine Colin as Jack! Wow, I could speculate more here, but is not BJD board, so I won't. (Three's Company was the stupider American version of Man About the House. I ought to know, I watched every episode.) Well Judy, I've had my share of bad luck in my life, but a few miles from ODB and you didn't know it! What cruel twist of fate is this! And (she says with knifeblade firmly in hand) he was Singleton at the time --- aside from torrid affair --- but we all know how that ended.

Perhaps fondling my hand could help?

(Arami)You want to fondle my hand???I knew that was asking for trouble...no trouble would be if I told you I wanted to do unmentionable/unpardonable things with it just because Colin has touched it,if we ever meet just don't shake hands with me I might not let go;-D Sadie don't hesitate go & speculate over on BJD (I didn't mean that to rhyme) (Sadie) 'he was Singleton at the time' cruel,cruel woman I had forgotten about that-you're not just holding that knife you're twisting it as well!

LOL Arami, me or Judy?

well I seem to have problems with people getting there first. Are you still offering me your hand now you know what I'm going to do with it?

oops its happened again!I'm not quick enough!

I nevah offered you my hand! *snort* But I do have a knife. Although, you can't have it until I'm well out of the room! D

I don't want you hand you've never touched him! And as for that knife Arami might want it to use on me!

LOL Arami, me or Judy? Either of you - you both seem fond of fondling. do unmentionable/unpardonable things...just because Colin has touched it,if we ever meet just don't shake hands with me... LOL! This is getting pathological... especially the bit about doing unmentionable things with one's hand - REGARDLESS of the fact that Colin (AND the Queen :-)) touched it...

Welcome Octavia, stick with us! Congratulations on your grandson's birth, Jenny!

From Anne R.--Fever Pitch has indeed been held over for a third week at the Cinema Arts Theatre in Fairfax, Va. Showtimes are 12:30, 2:30, and 7:15.

Proceeds from the "Speaking with the Angel" audio tape and book go to Tree House, a charity for autistic children. I think there is a special school in Camden or Islington called/or funded by Tree House, which gives one to one attention to severely autistic children. There have been so many posts that I can't remember where to go to cut and paste! But, briefly.. Re. the name "Colin"... perhaps regarded as rather old fashioned now, not very "cool." I remember that in HF's original BJ interview with CF in the "Independent", she asked him "Has it been a disadvantage in your career being called Colin?" He replied that his parents had wanted to call him Andrew but they couldn't because his cousin was called Andrew. This bit of the interview was not included in "The Edge of Reason"! Perhaps his middle name (but does he have one?) is Andrew. "Firth" is definitely, absolutely West Yorkshire in origin. Colin is very popular in Scotland (ditto Andrew). Re. the body workout. It's great that he'll be so fit, but why did the producers think he needed to lose a stone in weight? He's rake thin already... and why does a top human rights London barrister need pecs? I sometimes suspect that Big Movie producers aren't as appreciative of CF's major assets (eyes, voice etc) as they should be...!!! They seem to need to turn him into a leading man "clone". But super fitness would be very useful for the "Maid of Buttermere". Hatfield exercises every morning, concentrating on the chest and arms...and he drives a coach and four (horses), which takes tremendous skill and strength! Great to have so many new contributions...the board is really humming!

The Blackadder Back and Forth movie-let will be on Sky One on October 1. Now, remember, ladies, Colin appears twice so don't blink your eyes toward the end. ;-)

Karen thanks for the info but October 1,thats not what I'd call coming soon.They've been showing clips for a few days now,I'm surprised & disappointed at that date even though they're showing it earlier than first suggested. Don't worry Karen I'll have it taped & probably every repeat taped as well so there's no chance of me missing him.

Best Wishes to you and your family, Jennie, on the arrival of that small bundle, Samuel. Welcome Octavia. I hope you find the discussions interesting.

That film was awfully cute on the biiiiig Dome screen. It might be a little "Laurel and Hardyish" on the telly. Why don't you go see it at the Dome, Judy? Can't be that far. Nothing is in England. (We're talking Pennsylvania, folks!)

(Evelyn)Can't be that far. Nothing is in England. LOL everything's far to the English,didn't you Know? We only travel a few miles & we have to stay over night!

(Judy) everything's far to the English,didn't you Know? My cue to post this week's lucky winners in the "Relative Values Is Playing in My Backyard" sweepstakes: 1. UCI 6, High Wycombe 2. Elite Cinema, Leyburn 3. UCI 10, Preston 4. Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre, Dundee 5. mac, Birmingham 6. Hull Screen, Hull 7. MacRoberts Arts Centre, Stirling 8. Town Hall, Haverhill 9. Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff 10. Corn Exchange, Wallingford

Aaagh!So near & yet so far.

(Judy)LOL everything's far to the English,didn't you Know? We only travel a few miles & we have to stay over night! So drive 25 miles and spend the night;-)) *evelyn who drives 100 miles RT for a Baskin-Robbins cone!!* lucky winners in the "Relative Values Is Playing in My Backyard" sweepstakes The winners are Ann W. and Aishling who consistently go to London to see all of Colin's films.....and don't spend the night! Way to go! If he had more fans like that in the UK his last three films wouldn't have tanked.

(Evelyn) If he had more fans like that in the UK his last three films wouldn't have tanked.An over simplification, I think the films tanked before they were ever shown,bad press,limited distribution etc. I've not seen his last 3 films & I consider myself to be a long-time & v.loyal fan but circumstances mean you can't always do things you want to do.I envy & applaud Ann W. & Aishling for doing what they do.

Thanks for pointing us to the "lardy" article, Arami. I couldn't help laughing out loud at the absurd (to us anyway) description of the pre-buff Colin. (Judy) Whoever wrote that caption"Pride & Podginess:Plump Darcy was still a sex symbol" needs their eyes testing(oops I don't mean about the sex symbol part)....Can't you tell it was written by a jealous man. (Eileen) However, there he is, displaying his trademark arm drape (notice no shoulder clutch--gesture obviously reserved for females *or* triceps are now too big ;-))....Keep your eyes peeled for 'Body by Cornel' videos. (Mari) Mr. Darcy "podgy?" Sorry, but he looked a helluva lot better than Cornel Then you ladies really set me off 'til tears were starting to form. (Tracy) One thing that struck me ( apart from the apalling dress sense which we all adore him for) was that he is much taller than he seems on screen and appears only to willing to profer a strong arm round the shoulder/neck of the unsuspecting Firthette. Unexpected but by no means unwelcome :-~~~ Was just starting to sober up reading Tracy's lovely and oh-so-accurate description of meeting Colin in the flesh until... (Judy) Did he touch your neck,oh tell me he didn't I couldn't cope-this neck touching of his must be a subliminal message to all his fans. No neck palpating here, darn it, but am having great pleasure thinking what he might be trying to tell us... (1)"Repeat after me, my name is Colin Firth. Mr. Darcy is just a character I played." (2)"Ignore the podgy face and flabby belly. Go home and tell all my fans how lean and lanky you think I am." Let me add my welcome to Jennie and Octavia. Hope you keep coming back.