IMO, they overdid the weight gain in BJD, which is partially causing this to-do now. In the books, BJ is not overweight--she only obsesses that she is. That's the point that people seem to miss. At one point in the first book, she's less than 120 pounds; for a woman of average height, that's slender. And wasn't it reported that the producers admitted they overdid it, but by that time camwras were ready to roll and they had no choice? That imdb "interview" was taken straight from Access Hollywood the other night. She is *not* dreading Australia--that whole thing was said laughingly. She was very graciuos--as she always is--about comments made by people like Elton John. Hey, Elton--I think your wig is hideous, your clothes are ugly, and you have a face that only a mother could love. How's that feel?

ROTF, Mari! On a serious note, we are still waiting for a TEOR confirmation. Will HG be in it? How large will his part be? I would love to get my hands on AD's script.

I recall her being interviewed on morning radio when she came out to promote BJD, about a year and a half ago, so she's been here since! Interesting point Mari. I must re-read BJD and see if that comes through. You may be very right. ;)

Mari is right. We never get a physical description of BJ; she's the every girl. Who thinks she's too fat, tits too small, etc...; that she's too dumb to get the rich handsome lawyer, so she settles for the two-bit boss who just uses her for a quickie. He was never serious about her. We've all been there.

(Tress) Maybe we're going to lose the interview all together??!! Yep, I wouldn't be surprised especially because it was written for Bridget's obsession with Mr. Darcy,(and HF's obsession for Mr. Darcy/Colin) and because Colin said he wouldn't do the interview scene. But, GC would have been the obvious next choice because of all the ER references. However, if I'm reading Dorine's post correctly, he hasn't said he wouldn't do it, he hasn't been asked to do it. I would think he would have been approached by now, though. Sorry to be answering my own questions.

Hey, Annette, thanks for your comment back at #1367. That'll teach me not to fail to check in for 3 weeks. I seem to remember mentioning that CF's "double" didn't resemble him the night I saw him - although I also remember that he didn't seem to resemble his own publicity pic (to me). I'm still trying to work out how to lose the weight I've put on since the original for the sequel (in case I can blag my way on as an extra again) - and Renee thinks she has problems! Still she just got her GG nom, maybe there'll be a celebratory binge, and she'll get back up to a weight acceptable to Sir Elton.

Renee Zellweger arrives at the premiere screening of the film 'Chicago' at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences in Beverly Hills, Calif., Dec. 10, 2002. She looks fine to me ;-)

A camera's lens can "add 10 pounds". Whatever she is now, all I can say is in Chicago, there was one scene where it was easy to see she was quite thin. I'm not going to argue "too thin", or whatever. But I will say too, that at another screening, I overheard the people next to me talking about how distractingly thin she was to one of them and made a comment about camera lenses adding weight, so she must have been thinner than she appeared. (Their words, not mine) Everybody's perception can be different. And that's not even comparing her directly to CZJ which was easy to do in the last scene. They are 2 different sized people.

"You can't be too thin, or too rich"

(MarkG)(in case I can blag my way on as an extra again) I would find it most wonderful, if you could find a way back. From what I've read about the filming of BJD, your reports from the set were v.g.

I haven't posted in an age since I always seem to be about three weeks behind on reading the posts. Real life is severely impinging on my drool time but I do lurk and try and keep up with what's going on. I read the following in the LA Times today and it made me think about BJD TEOR. Could there be a connection to GC's possible appearance as Bridget's Interview subject? Probably not but it doesn't take much for me to make the leap to Firth ;-). This long article was about how the movie studios often insist that when signing on to a film, an actor agree to give the studio an option to require the actor to appear in a future film for that studio. Here's the part that referred to George Clooney. "But superstar status doesn't eliminate worry about options. First-time director Clooney was determined to cast Sam Rockwell as 'Gong Show' host Chuck Barris in 'Confessions of a Dangerous Mind.' Miramax was fielding inquiries from better-known stars who wanted the part. The studio relented on Clooney's choice only when Clooney gave Miramax several options, he says. One called for Clooney to appear in a cameo in a Miramax film and another gave Miramax an opportunity to co-produce movies made with Clooney and partner Steven Soderbergh's production company. (Clooney's publicist says Miramax later forgave the options when he added Julia Roberts and Drew Barrymore to his 'Confessions' cast.)" I'm probably dreaming, but the first thought that occurred to me was that the planned cameo might have been for TEOR. But now that GC is being non-committal about it in public obviously it's not confirmed.

Jana, I still think he's going to do the part. GC can keep a secret really well. Remember when Doug Ross made a cameo return appearance in ER when nurse Hathaway (can't remember her first name) left for Seattle? No one knew he had filmed it, except the few involved with the scene.

(LisaJH) I still think he's going to do the part. GC can keep a secret really well. Remember when Doug Ross made a cameo return appearance in ER when nurse Hathaway (can't remember her first name) left for Seattle? No one knew he had filmed it, except the few involved with the scene. Exactly what I've been thinking! All ER fans had been hoping, but nobody spilled the beans and it came as a surprise to all. Let's hope lightning strikes twice!

(Jana) Could there be a connection to GC's possible appearance as Bridget's Interview subject? Probably not but it doesn't take much for me to make the leap to Firth ;-). Good going, but so far TEOR isn't a Miramax production. Strictly Universal's baby. But I do think that GC wouldn't be confirming the rumor anyway: (a) is not his place and (b) is not his place. ;-)

I remember reading about the auction of the reindeer sweater, but I was amused to find this photo floating around and didn't recall seeing it posted, so I thought I'd share:

Good pic, Rika. Too bad you couldn't get those heads out of your shot. Maybe if you'd have stood. ;-) Pity though that they couldn't have found a better model. ;-)

If they'd found a better model, I would have done more than just stand..... ;-)

Just a thought - were there any information, if the sweater had been to the cleaners before the auction? Something tells me, that the price would go through the roof if it came straight from ODB. Perhaps someone will invent a "scent-distributor" to our tv in the future - I know that would take my drooling to an even higher level ;-)

No information to that effect.... but I think you're on to something! Here's a link to the page where I found the photo - it shows some other things that were auctioned (including, from the looks of it, one of FOC's dresses from TIOBE): http://www.nftsfilm-tv.ac.uk/News/Archive/Foundation/Auction_01/Auction_01.html

Yes, it was FOC's dress from the end. Someone had found and posted the listings (and pics) from Christie's site. The dress was shown as shot from the movie, but the sweater was just laid out. I have it somewhere...

Love the Wallace and Gromit model. :) Surprised that went for so much more than the sweater. On second thought, maybe not. ;)

Has anyone seen the new Jenny Craig commercial? It starts with a voiceover: �Want to change your underwear this year?� First, one sees a pair of large granny pants on a clothesline; thereafter a ruffled, skimpier pair of (genuinely tiny) knickers next to the granny pants. I wonder where they got the idea? ;-)

And similarly, a new British TV ad features a (less amusing) reindeer sweater being worn by a rueful Dad after Christmas. Ah, the innovative advertising industry...

After the excessive snowfall in London today, the anchor on the news prefaced the weather report by drawing comparison to "the final snog scene in Bridget Jones' Diary" -- a woman after my own heart.

(Emma)the anchor on the news prefaced the weather report by drawing comparison to "the final snog scene in Bridget Jones' Diary" -- a woman after my own heart. Thanks for sharing that, Emma. Very nice. Have fun in the snow and be on the look out for foot prints with long strides ;-).

After the excessive snowfall in London today, the anchor on the news prefaced the weather report by drawing comparison to "the final snog scene in Bridget Jones' Diary" -- a woman after my own heart. ] we here in Boston, have had our fair share of snow. Haven't quite snogged in it;)

Hot off the Presses From IMDB: Celebrity News: 17th January 2003 (a lot of this is rehash of what we have heard before, but this sounds more definite than ever... ) Renee Agrees to Bridget Jones Sequel After months of speculation, Hollywood star Renee Zellweger has finally agreed to appear in a sequel to 2001 hit movie Bridget Jones's Diary - even if it means she must put on weight. Plans for a second installment were scuppered last year when the slim star insisted "There is no way I'm going to put all that weight on again. I hated it." But it seems her on screen love interest, British actor Colin Firth, has persuaded her to reprise her role as the frustrated singleton. Renee says, "I'm ready, willing and able. Bridget's a character I really identify with. I'll put the weight back on with pleasure." And on Firth's influence, she adds, "To work with Colin again would be fantastic." The actress may not have to bulk up quite so much as she did in the first movie. Writer Andrew Davies explains fans will see a more streamlined Bridget in the follow up. He says, "This time the script doesn't require her to bulk up all that much. The plot involves her doing time in a Thai jail, which means she actually has o lose weight." http://us.imdb.com/PeopleNews/

It's 8am London time and my radio station just announced it...oh happy day!!

It's 9.30 am Copenhagen time and I can only agree - Oh happy day!!! It is also nice, that for once it is Colins name mentioned instead of HG (this should make your day as well, Rika) I just wondered about when we would here news the other night watching Shirley Henderson and Gemma Jones(?) in Harry Potter. (btw - I loved SH as Mourning Murtle)

(KJArt)"To work with Colin again would be fantastic." I'm glad that he *persuaded* her to take up the role again. Things are looking good. I hoping that the Thai jail plot won't take over the whole movie.

Thanks, KJ! "To work with Colin again would be fantastic." You'd think she could have said will be fantastic. Now we just need the official confirmation with the cast list. ;-) Colin talking her into it must mean that he is aggresively pursuing doing this movie. ;-)

Excellent, excellent! And for Colin's name to be so prominently featured...am thrilled!

From Baz, today�s Daily Mail. ����We were all at the Tavern On The Green, a landmark restaurant (with so-so food) in Central Park, for the National Board of Review awards ceremony. After it was over I asked Renee when she was going to reprise her role in the phenomenally successful movie comedy Bridget Jones. �Honey�, she drawled, �we�re working on it. The script�s not done yet. People are working on that and we�re hoping to do it. It�ll happen.�

Also from the IMDB, there's a messageboard for TEOR and someone, who says she is a publicist at Working Title, has been posting info. Here's her latest: Hey It's me again. Wow, I didn't expect all this response from my post. It's great to know that there are lots of dedicated Bridget fans. I can't peek at the script sorry. It's top secret and Rich Curtis won't even let me ask questions! Though I have found out some stuff about the script. I can't reveal much though. Yes, they are planning to enlarge Hugh Grant's part. Expect him to turn up on Bridget's vacation to Thailand and some scenes at her home at the end. The script is considerably longer than the last one. It's about 200 pages so expect to movie to go over 2 hours, girls! I have some sad news to report though. Charmian May, who played Mark Darcy's mum, has passed away recently. No word on the recast for that. As for nude scenes . . . They are apparently throwing tons of money at Colin Firth to show his bottom for the film so only time will tell. As for the casting of Rebecca, expect a BIG name star to take the role. Renee Zellweger will get a reported $10 million to do the film. That's all for now. If you wish to ask me any additional questions, just post 'em and I'll try to find the answers for you. ~ Tracey http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0317198/board/thread/577034

They are apparently throwing tons of money at Colin Firth to show his bottom for the film YEAH BABY!!!! Let's start a collection, and contribute to the cause. C'mon, Colin, show us what you're made of! Actually, he already has; but I'd pay WAY extra for a full frontal.:-) Thanks, Karen and Aishling.

"They are apparently throwing tons of money at Colin Firth to show his bottom for the film so only time will tell" They're barking up the wrong tree...Throw $$$ at the Red Finger-nailed one. If he's so eager to do this film, perhaps he'll consent to the interview. Interview and bare bottom...whoa!!!

(TEOR messageboard) They are apparently throwing tons of money at Colin Firth to show his bottom for the film so only time will tell. Should we start up a collection??? Thanks KJArt, aishling and Karen! This is great news!!

What was that amount that was mentioned before??? $6 million???

Ooops, sorry, that was the amount for Love Actually.

Wow! Love all this news. Thanks all. Hope they don't give Hugh too much of a role though. I like him a lot (will be watching my new DVD of "About A Boy" today), but I'd like CF to get the press for a change.

(Mari) but I'd pay WAY extra for a full frontal.:-) Keep dreaming. Not in an R-rated film. "Full frontal male" automatically gets the Orange County parenting (ooops, I mean, MPAA) NC-17 rating. Ain't gonna happen, but I know what you mean. ;-)

"They are apparently throwing tons of money at Colin Firth to show his bottom for the film so only time will tell" Oh, my! Now there's a thought to get me going on a VERY cold morning! LOL, if they could pull that off, well, I'd better start saving up now for all those screenings I'll be attending. Wonder if I could get a special rate? Thanks for all this positive news!!!!

well, he was ready to make a naked Darcy scene in P&P, so maybe this time it will come true...

If it's true, I bet it's for the kitchen scene near the end. Mark wouldn't seem nearly so vulnerable and sweet screaming in abject terror when Bridget startles him if he were wearing black plaid flannel PJ's. Maybe Andrew Davies is still trying to make up for the fact that Darcy wound up fully clothed in the pond scene in P&P2! :-)

(Odessa) well, he was ready to make a naked Darcy scene in P&P, so maybe this time it will come true... (Rika) Maybe Andrew Davies is still trying to make up for the fact that Darcy wound up fully clothed in the pond scene in P&P2! :-) Excellent compensation! But don't forget, there was something, er, someone..... missing from the picture at that time. ;-) ;-) ;-)

What wonderful news! I'd settle for the towel slipping off his backside and that long, lean body (ala Playmaker) for all to see on the big screen! I wonder if Daniel will be the drug smuggler or involved in some way with BJ's stay in the Thai prison?

(Lisa), I wonder if Daniel will be the drug smuggler or involved in some way with BJ's stay in the Thai prison? This sounds very plausible, coming from our resident FF writer. ;-D Thanks for all the info! Mari, sweet dreams are made of this... but there's the harpy with the red fingernails. :-(

The Wilderness Years are over... I can't believe it...Oh I'm dancing in my seat. And this very day is my first anniversary of BJD. I'm all set to watch it tonight. It even snowed like last year...which is why I rented it in the first place. Wot a present. (Odessa)well, he was ready to make a naked Darcy scene in P&P, so maybe this time it will come true... True, but he would have been showing off his bottom for JE not LD. Quite a different kettle of fish, I'm sure. They are apparently throwing tons of money at Colin Firth to show his bottom My check is in the mail, I'm with you Mari, I'd pay extra. (Evelyn)They're barking up the wrong tree...Throw $$$ at the Red Finger-nailed one. LOL, Evelyn...this should be very interesting. If this is true, I'm dying to see who wins. Thanks, everyone, for this v. good news.

I'd be interested to see who plays Rebecca and I hope they include more of the friends!!!! Shirley Henderson was great as Moaning Myrtle:) She played it perfectly!!!

THANK YOU ALL for this most wonderful news. Come on Colin, strut your stuff. Take the money and show those dimples. Am really curious to see who will be Rebecca. A very BIG name, and a two-hour movie. This has really exciting potential. It's time to get out the candles and light them girls, with the cold weather they'll serve dual purpose. IMO if Renee is getting her going $10 million rate plus what they will have to pay the Big name, they've got the money to really make this a big success. And a win for Renee on Sunday would be a big boost too. HURRAY!!!

(FanPam) Take the money and show those dimples. I know which dimples you're talking about! ;-) This is all very good news! I hope HG's part isn't too big. (Laura) I'd be interested to see who plays Rebecca and I hope they include more of the friends!!!! Shirley Henderson was great as Moaning Myrtle:) She played it perfectly!!! I, too, would love to see more of the friends. Thought they all were wonderful.

As I was out all afternoon, I wondered about the bare bottom scene and have to agree it would have to be the kitchen one, the only one that is necessary from a ...um.....er....plot standpoint. ;-) Uma

How about Rebecca = Liz Hurley? Now wouldn't that be a delicious little bit of back story to chortle over? Though I've not heard anything else about her and GC.

(Barb)Though I've not heard anything else about her and GC. No, but there are rumors of LH and HG possibly back together again...so maybe LH would play Rebecca. (Karen)I wondered about the bare bottom scene and have to agree it would have to be the kitchen one, the only one that is necessary from a ...um.....er....plot standpoint. ;-) Butt of course. That scene was meant to be played nekkid... There are also plenty of shag scenes in the book...Oh Gawd, I can't think straight just thinking about it. If he opts out of the bare bottom, then I hope from a "plot standpoint" that we have at least two towel scenes...towel low on the hips, slipping way down, almost falling off. Hey, it's better than nothing!

Excellent news and great posts! (barb)How about Rebecca = Liz Hurley? Yes, she's been mentioned before. Is she considered a Very big name? And, is a qualification for casting being able to actually act? If not, she's a shoo-in! (kathyf)I hope HG's part isn't too big. Is it the Daniel Cleaver bad boy thing that is too tempting 'not' to revisit, or is it the drawing power of the actor they want? (Evelyn)Throw $$$ at the Red Finger-nailed one. Yes, better make that lira! (lisaJH)...that long, lean body (lindak)Butt of course. You both said it. By the time I get around to reading TEoR, it'll be filmed and out in cinemas! ;)

Re: Liz Hurley I too think she would be perfect, but she doesn't meet my definition of a "big name." And I hate to say it, but it probably means Rebecca will be played by an American actress, someone who is known by her first name. Maybe a Cameron. Someone who can make RZ look like a sack of potatoes. But they seem to have gone with contrast before, a brunette, so....

(Karen)...it probably means Rebecca will be played by an American actress, someone who is known by her first name...But they seem to have gone with contrast before, a brunette, so.... Well, CD could dye her hair, as could Gwenyth Paltrow. Hmmm, other Americans known by their first names: Cher? Madonna (help me God--no more movies, please!)? Winona? ;-)

Liz Hurley was who I pictured as Rebecca when I read the book, way back then. (Evelyn)Throw $$$ at the Red Finger-nailed one. (Lisa), Yes, better make that lira! That's Euros now. Needless to say that kitchen scene has to be naked. But I would take it back to MD descending the stairs to get to the kitchen. ;-) Lisa, I beg to have you write a scenario, with Colin, Livia and his agent discussing doing the scene naked. ;-D Just how much money are they throwing at him to do it?

Madonna for Rebecca!?! AAAAACCCCKKKK!! OMG, and she is right there too. Oh please no! Surely not, but then if ability to act is not important.... Big name? Julia Roberts, but surely not but if GC is in it and she decides to do it for a lark...(but they said VERY big, not huge...) I keep thinking of someone who could do a Caroline Bingley with successful sex appeal....who else?

I can't get past thinking of Liz Hurley. She's the one who came so strongly to mind while reading the book. It would be essentially typecasting for her, but who cares. Not like she has a huge range. I could see Nicole Kidman, but she'd be too big I think. I believe another suggestion was made quite a while back who I could see, but can't remember now and no time to check. CD? Yuch! I like her in a few things, but I think someone who has a deeper voice than her would be better. More sultry maybe?

(BarbS)How about Rebecca = Liz Hurley? Or CZJ? She and RZ worked well against each other ib Chicago. Although, I guess she will have a very young infant at the time filming is to start...

(LisaJ) Hmmm, other Americans known by their first names: Cher? I'm sure no one else will agree with me, but have imagined CF playing opposite Cher. I feel she would be one who could definitely shake that aristocratic exterior and would be great fun watching him react to her. Plus IMO she CAN act. But would opt for GP. LH would be a great physical attraction, as evidenced by my sons, but I too feel she lacks any acting prowess. Everyone in this ensemble can act, and is so good that IMO it would be detrimental to cast someone who was not up to par and I pray casting thinks so too. (Kathy) I, too, would love to see more of the friends. Thought they all were wonderful. Me too. Thought they were marvelous and oh so good. Would really like to see their rolls expanded as so much fun to watch. (Lisa) Is it the Daniel Cleaver bad boy thing that is too tempting 'not' to revisit, or is it the drawing power of the actor they want? IMO I think its both. Even CF in interview said it needed the same actors to work for sequel. And I have to give credit when due. I think he played Daniel exactly as he was meant to be. They worked very well off of each other.

(Kathy) I, too, would love to see more of the friends. Thought they all were wonderful. (FanPam) Me too. Thought they were marvelous and oh so good. Would really like to see their rolls expanded as so much fun to watch. Hear hear! Weren't they simply hilarious? To paraphrase: "Fight! It's a real fight!" "Well, f*** me!" "But this is a man you hate, right?" "No pressure Brig, but your entire future happiness depends on this one night!"

This s very exciting news! Been trying to catch up on all the comments. What would be considered alot of money for Colin to do TEOR if they are paying Renee 10 million? I recall reading how much they got for BJD but can't remember the numbers. I was wondering, if they get an american actress to play Rebecca, would they then make the character american too?

When I read EOR I always pictured a redhead, like a Nicole Kidman or the girl that played Colin's love interest in Circle of Friends. Anyone else? LH seems a bit too, too, glamourous, IMO.

I also think LH is great for the role, but I loved Rosamund Pike (Agent Frost) in Die Another Day. She isn't a big name but certainly looks the part. Here you go for a look at her. http://movies.yahoo.com/shop?d=hc&id=1804544482&cf=pg&photoid=455862&intl=us

I always saw LH as Rebecca, but.... (lindak) I also think LH is great for the role, but I loved Rosamund Pike (Agent Frost) in Die Another Day. I think, RP would be v. v. good! Good call Linda! She has that ice princess thing down!!

Have just caught up and this is really great news! (moonstar) LOL, if they could pull that off, Really thought you were going to say "the towel" in the next part of that sentence! ;-) (Karen)Ooops, sorry, that was the amount for Love Actually. But if LA brings him a possible $6 million, then TEoR might bring him close to what Renee is getting. Of course LD would need to approve, BUT(T) MONEY TALKS!

oops, sorry, closing tagstoo excited

closing

(lindak) I hope from a "plot standpoint" that we have at least two towel scenes...towel low on the hips, slipping way down, almost falling off. Oooh, what a mental image you've put in my mind!!! It's getting powerful warm in here ***fanning self*** I, too, thought of LH when I was reading TEOR, but if they've gotten a "big name", I'm not so sure it would be her. Rosamund Price is a great candidate, but she doesn't have a lot of name recognition in the U.S. I think CZ-J would be a great choice; I bet she could do ice-queen, and she certainly is gorgeous. Has she completely killed her Welsh (?) accent? The character doesn't have to be American. Lighting candles for 1) not too much of HG 2) big bucks for CF 3) CF nekkid scene (or at least the aforementioned low-slung towel)

The news about Renee agreeing to do a sequel has made it onto the front page of today's Times! Actress lands a weighty role in Bridget Jones: the sequel By Alan Hamilton Good news for all frumpish thirtysomething singletons. In fact, v.g. news. Renee Zellweger, the Hollywood stick insect who piled on the pounds to star in Bridget Jones's Diary, has finally agreed to appear in the sequel. After months of dithering, the diminutive actress has agreed to take the lead in The Edge of Reason, based on Helen Fielding's second Bridget Jones novel. It has to follow one of the most successful British films, which took �1.7 million on its first day alone in 2001, after hitting the G-spots of a whole female generation of city-dwelling chardonnay-swiggers. "I'm ready, willing and able; Bridget's a character I really identify with," Ms Zellweger confirmed at a press conference for her latest vehicle, Chicago. "I'll put the weight back on with pleasure." She had to fatten up by nearly 20lb for the original role. Barely a year ago, the prospect of a second Bridget Jones film seemed doomed when Ms Zellweger declared: "There is no way I am going to put all that weight on again." According to Hollywood gossip, she was persuaded by Colin Firth, her on-screen lover in the first film, who is expected to reprise his role as Mark Darcy. "To work with Colin again would be fantastic," Ms Zellweger said. The script may also have had a bearing. Andrew Davies, who is writing the screenplay with Richard Curtis in between costume-drama adaptations, promised a more streamlined Bridget. "The script doesn't require her to bulk up all that much. The plot involves her doing time in a Thai jail for drug-smuggling, which means she actually has to lose weight," he said. In a television interview earlier this month, Ms Zellweger said: "I'll do it if it's worthy of Helen Fielding and the character Bridget embodies." The Edge of Reason is expected to be released in the summer of 2004. Fans will have to wait until then to discover whether Bridget has sharpened up her dress sense and substituted a thong for those awful Zeppelin-sized knickers.

Excellent! Front page of The Times. And it's being reported by Ananova too: http://www.ananova.com/entertainment/story/sm_741537.html?menu= Thanks Barbara

Hey, I was kidding about Cher, Madonna and Winona. Didn�t you see my winkie? ;-) LH does seem like the heir apparent for the role of Rebecca, but I agree with the idea of Nicole Kidman being an interesting choice�. Speaking of casting, although I was very sorry to hear that the actress who played Elaine Darcy had recently died, I always thought she was miscast�that Mark�s mum should have been a bit more elegant in appearance. (Moon) Lisa, I beg to have you write a scenario, with Colin, Livia and his agent discussing doing the scene naked. ;-D Which Lisa did you have in mind? There are two of us, you know.;-) I vote for LisaL, as she is far more versatile and prolific�.

(LisaJH) Speaking of casting, although I was very sorry to hear that the actress who played Elaine Darcy had recently died, I always thought she was miscast�that Mark�s mum should have been a bit more elegant in appearance. I agree totally. She was probably a lovely woman, but she looked strangely masculine in BJD . Every time I watch it I wonder how Mr. and Mrs. Darcy could have produced a son as gorgeous as Mark!

I have to say I find it rather odd that it is supposedly *Colin* who has talked *Renee* into EoR vs the other way around, or someone else entirely. Especially since he also expressly said he wasn't interested in doing it (of course unless the script was good.....blah, blah, blah). Must be some amazing script! Must be excellent deals being made. Not just regarding money necessarily either.

(Dorine), Must be excellent deals being made. Not just regarding money necessarily either. I tend to think it is all about the money.

Sorry to hear about Mrs Darcy. She looked like a very respectable stiff upper lipped kind of lady. I'm sure the hair and makeup didn't help her much. I nominate Dame Edna for the role. Would love to see her and Gemma Jones together in TEOR scenes. I like Ms Hurley too. Would like to see the poster as CF in middle of two women (similar to TIOBE). Any chance with RZ as big a star as she is now?

There's apparently a double page spread in today's Daily Mail entitled Renee Zellwegger's Diary. Can anyone get hold of this for us? Thanks to Pam for this news.

Soonest I could get my hands on it would be tomorrow. Is it worth it?

Saffron Burrows could make a good Rebecca; I definitely don't think she should be American. I had the perfect person, but for the life of me, I can't think who... Oh, now I know. Rachel Weisz!

From People Daily News online: January 21, 2003 Thin Renee to Beef Up for Bridget Role STEPHEN M. SILVERMAN Renee Zellweger, a svelte vision in a black gown at the Golden Globes Sunday night, may have looked in tip-top shape, but soon the "Chicago" star will be packing the pounds back on. Zellweger, 33, who was named best actress in a musical or comedy at the Globes, says she is preparing to reprise her comic role as the put-upon Londoner Bridget Jones in "The Edge of Reason," a sequel to 2001's popular "Bridget Jones's Diary." (Both films are based on Helen Fielding's novels.) "I'm ready, willing and able," Zellweger tells the London Times. "Bridget's a character I really identify with. I'll put the weight back on with pleasure." The Texas-born Zellweger gained about 20 pounds and a convincing English accent to play the role of Bridget the first time out. Those who've seen "Chicago," however, can see a bone-thin Zellweger. (During one song in the movie, "Roxie," she convincingly parodies Marilyn Monroe -- minus Monroe's trademark voluptuous curves.) Zellweger wasn't always so excited about playing Bridget again. The New York Post reports that last year, she told a reporter there was "no way" she'd put the weight on again. The Post says the actress ultimately was swayed by her costar, Colin Firth, who is expected to reprise his role as Mark Darcy, Bridget's love interest. (No word on whether the new film will also include Hugh Grant, who played her heel of a boss.) "The Edge of Reason" is slated for a mid-2004 release, and since Zellweger is now said to command $20 million per picture, she'll ostensibly be paid $1 million a pound to gain for the role. Then again, maybe she won't have to put on all that weight this time. For a long stretch of "Reason," Bridget is shown rotting in a Thai jail, accused of drug smuggling. For a long stretch of "Reason," Bridget is shown rotting in a Thai jail, accused of drug smuggling. Oh, I hope not... Trying to keep positive thinking about what Hola Lola said regarding specific scene speculations

is now said to command $20 million per picture thanks, Linda. This is like "whispering down the lane." The original Times article reported $10 million, then yesterday's NY Post decided to double that to $20 million, so now that's what is getting reported. Re: spread in Daily Mail. It's cute, but not a must have. Has pics of RZ with funny "diary entries". E.G., pic of RZ and CF embracing at BJD premiere, with copy reading something like "Are you sure these are *all* the muscles you have?"

is now said to command $20 million per picture Yeah, I doubt that figure too. $20 million is a Julia number and, I think THR listing, also put Cameron Diaz in that figure.

But if Reese Witherspoon gets 18 mil for Legal Blond 2, why not Rene for 20? I think these actors are so over paid.

'Cause you have to bring 'em in under the drawing power of your name only, which Reese did for Legally Blonde, etc.

For a long stretch of "Reason," Bridget is shown rotting in a Thai jail, accused of drug smuggling. (Linda) Oh, I hope not... You and me both! Was hoping they'd ditch most of that and come up with something else. Zellweger is now said to command $20 million per picture, (Mari) The original Times article reported $10 million, then yesterday's NY Post decided to double that to $20 million Yes, but she won a Golden Globe on Sun in between the two reports, didn't she? Not sure of the timing actually. Granted not an Oscar, but now virtually assured a nom I bet. If she hadn't signed on the dotted line yet, I imagine it's conceivable she could ask for a raise that quick. Maybe not fair, but conceivable. Ben Affleck was talking about a similar situation with Jennifer Garner for Daredevil on the Dinner with Five (or whatever it's called) show on IFC channel. They were in negotiations with her and in the meantime she won a GG last year for Alias. He joked that he hoped she had been locked in. (Moon)But if Reese Witherspoon gets 18 mil for Legal Blond 2, why not Rene for 20? I think these actors are so over paid. Agreed. Rather see Renee than Reese get it though. And Colin is a bigger part of EoR than BJD, surely he must be getting a pretty penny. Also, can't believe they'd really give him $6 mil for a role in LA which has such a large ensemble. Maybe for EoR. Giving HG a huge payday for LA I can see. He has that cache. Who knows. It's all a lot more money than I'll see in a lifetime.

(Doreen), And Colin is a bigger part of EoR than BJD, surely he must be getting a pretty penny. The bigger role is yet to be seen. Don't forget they wrote HG a bigger role for TEOR. I am curious as to his salary for that reason. ;-)

Just courious: Have there been any mentioning in the US-papers of TEOR or is it "just" UK (no offence whatsoever)?

Zellweger is now said to command $20 million per picture, (Mari) The original Times article reported $10 million, then yesterday's NY Post decided to double that to $20 million Inside Edition had a short mention of TEOR last night. They quoted the $20 million figure. Also mentioned the 20 lbs. she is said to be gaining. My guess is that they got their info from the NY Post. Possible they pushed the date back to give her time to gain the weight? She probably won't try to pack it on until after the Oscars (just a guess)...

(Tress) Possible they pushed the date back to give her time to gain the weight? She probably won't try to pack it on until after the Oscars (just a guess)... That sounds quite plausible, too, esp if she doesn't tend to gain weight fast. If I'm not mistaken she works out quite a bit, and her metabolism probably runs pretty fast. And she could stand to gain a few pounds by the Oscars.

(Tress) Possible they pushed the date back to give her time to gain the weight? She probably won't try to pack it on until after the Oscars (just a guess)... Good point. Thought also might be delay with script. Would like to see Renee getting the $20 mil as I think she's comparable to RW. Figure IMO probably between $10-$15 perhaps.

Sydney Morning Herald, running the news about TEoR taken from The Times. http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/01/22/1042911436091.html

That story is all over the place...even my home town newspaper. WT has started the publicity wheels running.

(Evelyn)That story is all over the place...even my home town newspaper Yes, our local news did a bit on it this morning, and the same story appeared in our newspaper as well. I know the focus is on RZ right now, and rightly so...but I would assume that eventually we'll hear from the others

In mine they also included the CF bit.

That's because UPI picked up the story on the 22nd: RENEE SIGNS ON FOR 'BRIDGET 2' Renee Zellweger has ended months of speculation by announcing she will reprise her role in a sequel to the smash hit, "Bridget Jones's Diary." "I'm ready, willing and able. Bridget's a character I really identify with," the Golden Globe winner told reporters. "I'll put the weight back on with pleasure." The petite "Chicago" star is expected to again pack on about 20 pounds to play a plump 30-something Londoner looking for love. She'll have plenty of money for pizza and Twinkies, though. The New York Post estimates her paycheck for the performance will be $20 million. The 2001 film was based on Helen Fielding's hilarious novel "Bridget Jones's Diary," which she followed with the popular sequel, "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason" and on which the second Bridget film reportedly will be based. Co-starring British heartthrob Colin Firth, the second film is expected to hit theaters in the summer of 2004. http://www.upi.com/view.cfm?StoryID=20030121-051533-6334r

Nice to see diminishing mentions of Hughie. If his role is buffed up too much, we'll just get a re-run of the BJD love triangle. I'd like to see Bridget and Mark moving on, and more of Rebecca, the friends, even Giles and fat Nigel!

(Bethan) Nice to see diminishing mentions of Hughie. If his role is buffed up too much, we'll just get a re-run of the BJD love triangle. I'd like to see Bridget and Mark moving on,... As I would too. But this is a very well casted and profitable trio for Miramax and IMO they will have much screen time. Not such a tragedy as they were so very good together in BJD. IMO a very successful formula which the audiences obviously enjoyed.

Sunday, 26 January. There is reportedly a two-page interview with Renee Zellweger about TEOR in the UK Now Magazine. Anyone care to check?