From Screendaily, reporting on deals at the AFM: Myriad Pictures has closed a seven figure-deal with Rai Cinema in Italy for its psychological thriller Trauma starring Colin Firth. The deal was negotiated by Myriad's senior vice president, international distribution, Samantha Horley with Rai's head of film rights Paola Malanga. The film, which was produced by the UK's Little Bird and its horror label Ministry Of Fear, was directed by Marc Evans and also stars Mena Suvari and Brenda Fricker. Warner Bros has UK rights. (So that makes the UK, some Scandanavian countries and now Italy...)

Great new pics Karen, thanks so much! Difficult to choose a favourite! Think I'm with you Moon on the seated pic. Hola Lola, thanks for stopping by with great news - and the news about ODB wasn't bad either! ;-)) Wishing you both lots of luck and joy, Looking forward to hearing about the new projects.

If it's any comfort, Mr. Brown doesn't even show-up in "Nurse Matilda Goes to Town";he and the missus are abroad;-) ET will probably write him a bigger part;-)...but that's what we said about TTOTS. And all BBC did was outfit him in a suit that didn't even fit . He had more screen time (and better fit !) in The Secret Garden.

(Ev)He had more screen time (and better fit !) in The Secret Garden. LOL! Truly 75 seconds of admirable work! ;-)

You're not going to believe this, but it has been confirmed: http://www.tvtome.com/tvtome/servlet/GuidePageServlet/showid-365/epid-304129/

*falling over in shock*

You're not going to believe this,... Well I'll be! I haven't watched *regularly* for years but this is great news!

OMG! Confirmed?! OMG! Okay...am a bit excited by this development... OMG! Really!?

Remember they will announce the host for next week's show this Saturday night.

Am envisioning ODB dressed as Darcy with several SNL ladies standing about... Can see him dressed as Vermeer painting...who knows what...(really, who cares! He's on SNL!) New publicist? Agent? How does this happen?

New publicist? Agent? Attitude?;-) Will believe it when I see it; sure they don't mean Colin potty mouth drunk Farrell? Metro Girls, you have your work cut out for you; from the NBC site: Saturday Night Live We are no longer taking ticket requests for the 2003-2004 season. Check back next summer for information about the 2004-2005 ticket lottery. For stand-by tickets: Arrive no later than 7:00am on the morning of the taping under the "NBC Studios" marquee on the 50th St. side of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. You may choose a stand-by ticket for either the 8:00pm dress rehearsal or the 11:30pm live show. Only one ticket will be issued per person. Please note that a stand-by ticket does not guarantee admission.

Am envisioning ODB dressed as Darcy with several SNL ladies standing about.. Or a look-a-like- Fred Mac Murray -daddy:-))))) Be careful what you hope for... We talked about that several years ago, to show his rom-com potentials;-)

LOL...Karen! I'm just sad that Mike Myers still isn't with the cast. "Simon" and ODB would have been a treat! Picturing them in bathtub together doing 'dwawings'...oh my!

I am in a state of shock! Think I will program a double bill that Sat. night, first the Passion then the passionate. ;-)

Can anyonr explain what this programme is about?

Can anyone explain what this programme is about?

New publicist? Agent? How does this happen? I'm betting someone flipped through Vanity Fair and Colin was the only one he/she didn't know. ;-)

Can anyone explain what this programme is about? Sketch comedy. This is the show all the really great improv comedians hit it big on: John Belushi and Dan Ackroyd, Chevy Chase, Gilda Radner, Bill Murray, Eddie Murphy... The list is endless. They were all SNL--and most were from Second City originally (I had to throw in a plug)

(Allison) Can anyone explain what this programme is about? Saturday Night Live it a sketch comedy show. Very long running in the states (since the mid 70s?). Has helped many comic careers (Eddie Murphy, Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, Dan Akyroyd, Mike Myers were all former SNL cast members). It is crazy that Colin is doing this...probably the last thing I would ever imagine him doing. But I'm a bit excited about it (as you can tell). Would think it may be out of his comfort zone, but I guess I was wrong!

Sketch comedy with a topical bent, very irreverent. If it's true, he's coming at a great time--so much going on here to poke fun at--gay marriages in SF, Bush, Mel Gibson, Bush, Kerry, Bush, the Jacksons, Bush . . .;-) I can picture them putting him in a horrendously overstated Vermeer type wig, with one of the women playing Griet--with lips out to *there*!

(Mari) I can picture them putting him in a horrendously overstated Vermeer type wig, with one of the women playing Griet--with lips out to *there*! LOL...or something out to *there*! I actually had the same thought. Something ridiculous on her head...maybe with various earrings being tried on. Paint and such being spilled everywhere...

(Mari) Will believe it when I see it; sure they don't mean Colin potty mouth drunk Farrell? My thoughts exactly. It certainly didn't sound like his cup of tea to me.

LOL, Tress, that's the spirit! Or maybe an American Idol spoof, with Colin as Simon Cowell: "That was positively dreadful. You belong on a cruise ship." And then the contestant goes berserk him. Maybe they can bring in William Hung, the "She Bangs" guy! Cowell tore him apart--LOL!

SNL does air in the UK, on Sky TV. But I'm sure the last time I watched, it was a show from the 80's. :-(((

(Mari) Or maybe an American Idol spoof, with Colin as Simon Cowell: "That was positively dreadful. You belong on a cruise ship." And then the contestant goes berserk him. Maybe they can bring in William Hung, the "She Bangs" guy! Cowell tore him apart--LOL! Brilliant! LOL! You should write for SNL Mari! BTW, find it terribly amusing that William Hung is a 'celebrity' now! Maybe he'll be the musical guest? ;-D Or! Better yet! Paris Hilton, she has an album coming out and I know Karen is dying to get it! ;-)

OMG!! Now that I'm back from the cardiac care ward (arrested while reading SNL confirmation). Thank heaven it's happening AFTER I move and have the new cable sorted! Now I know that I MUST be sure to take the VCR with me and not leave it for the DH (who is tending the homefires while I settle in)! Must remember to get a clean tape for this one. Boss, THANK YOU for finding this one!!!

OMG, SNL, this is GREAT news! Just when things seemed to be getting a bit quiet. Might this be a chance at my first ODB 'in the flesh' experience? What time do you think we'd have to get on line for a shot at those 'standby' tix? An absolutely great opportunity for ODB! I think he has great comedic talents and just think of the exposure... Many, many,thanks, Karen

No need to thank me. My mailbox was getting stuffed with emails about this. What do you think about the Lorne Michaels, as film producer (with Mick Jagger) connection?

(Karen)and most were from Second City originally (I had to throw in a plug) And that would be located where?;-)) (Sandy)It certainly didn't sound like his cup of tea to me. Oh, I think that this is just his irreverant cup of tea, milk first;-) He could do an English DeNero...*You bloody f***ing my wife?* He was a pisser on the KK show.

Loved all the ideas for the potential SNL sketches. But I've got to think that some how...at some part in the broadcast we're gonna' see him getting soaked and standing around in a wet shirt.

Am now pretty certain that there must be some really great Spring sale occurring and Livia needs to be in NYC next week. Am still trying to make sense of SNL business. ODB thought he'd keep busy while the missus swipes the credit cards?! Not complaining...just baffled! Good for him for 'putting it out there' so to speak!

But Tress, Fashion Week has ended, no? Were the two of them here incongnito where all the while we thought him to be in Rome?? Or perhaps some private post-show viewings have been scheduled at the designers' ateliers?

Amazing news! Have to admit though, I'm wondering who *is* this person and what have they done with the real CF? (Leslie) ...at some part in the broadcast we're gonna' see him getting soaked and standing around in a wet shirt. And don't you just know every female in that skit would be pumped up to ridiculous heights? But, like the BJD interview, the significance would be understood by only a few, probably too esoteric.

Thank you, Karen, for the exciting, if bizarre, news on what has been just a horrid day! And that's the Saturday I'm going to be in NYC!!! Maybe it hasn't been quite such a poxy day afterall. Plus, my family has finally figured out what's important when they are on vacation. ;-)

(Shoshana) Plus, my family has finally figured out what's important when they are on vacation. ;-) Now there's a poster to ask for!

How exciting that ODB will be hosting SNL. I have to believe that one of the sketches will involve him fighting a HG look-alike. I think they will spoof his rom-coms and GWAPE. I want to see what he does with the opening monologue. Oh, to be in NYC next weekend! Hope we have at least one DD on the scene!

OMG, here I am always late when there is breaking news! I cannot believe this. New publicist? Agent? How does this happen? New something or other. Wow!! this is f---ing fantastic;-) (Bee)He could do an English DeNero...*You bloody f***ing my wife?* All of the suggestions were great, but Bee I love yours;-) Maybe he'll just do an hour of smoldering, repressed looks. Hell, he can just stand there for an hour and do nothing just as long as he looks AFG and I'll be happy.

Has it occured to anyone that he might be on his way to the Oscars to celebrate with the GWAPE people, before going to NY? Bet Livia's happy. :-) As much as I would love to relive a Darcy moment, I have a feeling we will get him in a wig only as Vermeer. Still, SNL is incredible news!

SNL!!!! OH MY GOD!!!!! OK Metro Girls - Shosh, you'll be in town . .are we going to try for it? Would love to see them doing a skit where he constantly gets wet or falls in some body of water . . . but GWAPE is in now . .so I'm seeing a Vermeer appearance . .or possibly a BJD skit . .with him playing Huge?;)

Oooh, hot musical guest too! From an NBC site: COLIN FIRTH TO HOST NBC�S 'SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE' WITH MUSICAL GUEST NORAH JONES ON MARCH 6 Published: February 26, 2004 NEW YORK -- February 26, 2004 -- Acclaimed English actor Colin Firth takes the reins of the March 6 edition of "Saturday Night Live" with multiple Grammy winner Norah Jones as musical guest. A classically trained British theater actor and veteran of numerous memorable television and film roles, Colin Firth makes his first appearance on "SNL." Firth charmed audiences in the hit romantic comedies "Love Actually" and "Bridget Jones Diary" and will soon be seen in the much-anticipated sequel "The Edge of Reason" with Renee Zellweger. Firth also is currently starring opposite Scarlett Johansson in the critically praised "Girl With A Pearl Earring." He'll next be seen in the psychological thriller "Trauma" which debuted at this year's Sundance Film Festival. Firth first broke out with his role as Mr. Darcy in the BBC television adaptation of "Pride and Prejudice." Firth's other film credits include: "What A Girl Wants" with Amanda Bynes, "The Importance of Being Earnest," "Shakespeare in Love" and "The English Patient." He was nominated for an Emmy for his work in the HBO film "Conspiracy." Hailed by Time as "the most natural singer of her generation," Norah Jones makes her second SNL appearance, performing from her runaway hit sophomore release "Feels Like Home." Since her first appearance on SNL, the jazz-influenced pianist and vocalist has won a whopping eight Grammy Awards for her acclaimed debut "Come Away With Me" as well as the record going eight-times-platinum. While "Feels Like Home" which Rolling Stone called in a four-star review "easygoing and poignant" recently debuted at Number One on the Billboard chart, selling a million records in its first week (the biggest debut since N*Sync's 2001 "Celebrity"), her equally acclaimed debut remains in the Top 20.

Here's the link, BTW. Pic is from LA premiere of GWAPE, I believe. http://www.nbcmv.com/entertainment/release_detail.nbc/entertainment-20040226000000-snlwithcolinfirth.html You know, they rehearse the entire week leading up to the show, so anyone hanging around 30 Rock should be in good position for a sighting. Dorine and Kim, shades of the Today Show toy drive with Santa Firth.;-) They generally start running TV promos midweek for the upcoming show.

He'll next be seen in the psychological thriller "Trauma" which debuted at this year's Sundance Film Festival. Only in the UK, Italy and some Scandanavian countries! ;-( Maybe SNL appearance will help! Hope so.... Thanks Mari! This makes it seem so 'official'! And with Norah Jones!! Must run out and get VHS tapes (Plural...must have back ups and.....call brother to set TiVo....and.....) Kimberly...you must try to go! Someone has to rep! And the more the merrier (hint, hint....all those other metrogals!) ;-)

(Tress) It is crazy that Colin is doing this...probably the last thing I would ever imagine him doing. But I'm a bit excited about it (as you can tell). Would think it may be out of his comfort zone, but I guess I was wrong! I share your sentiments Tress, except I feel a lot more nervous than excited. I can't really explain it, it's just that....this could go very well, or very badly. I'm not making much sense, am I? Sorry about that, I'm just feeling a weeeee bit uneasy.

(Ildi) I'm just feeling a weeeee bit uneasy. I know what you mean. The man most frequently described as smouldering and repressed will have to play against type to be entertaining. But rehearsal time to get comfort level up should help. And when he's been with someone who knows what they're doing (Jon Stewart, Rupe in Cast Party interview) he comes out more. I hope it is fun for him.

I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels a bit nervous about this... Very excited mind you, but yes, uneasy. I've been watching the show since the 70's when it first started, and have to say it's really just not as good as it used to be. (Stating the obvious here.) I'd hate to have him in lame skits in his first mainstream high profile American bit. That said, my guess is (agreeing with others who've said this already) a HG fight scene and a wig scene. I do think it would be funny, although not everyone would get it, if they doused him with water everytime he appeared. The ladies could just show up, even if out of context, and throw a bucket of water at him. Well, I'd laugh. And I do think he's up to slapstick. So much wish I could be in NY that weekend to hang around the stage door. Anyone going to try some gate crashing?

Thanks, Mari! A vg double bill! At this point I'm thinking about what could be next. This is a huge step for him. Can we find out what the viewership is that for that night?

Thanks, Mari. NJ as the musical guest as well. Excellent! Meg, Tress, Ildi, Barb, (and me, a wee bit, too) Nervous is good, though. All I can say-- break a leg, Colin! (Moon)Has it occured to anyone that he might be on his way to the Oscars to celebrate with the GWAPE people I was thinking LA after NY---lots of schools starting spring break just about then. I don't know about the Oscar celebrations-he opted out of the BAFTA stuff.

(NBC)"He'll next be seen in the psychological thriller "Trauma" which debuted at this year's Sundance Film Festival." Not a bad plug .(Hey, it beats NMc) Psst....Bee Dee, your candles are slowly getting there:-))) (Moon)This is a huge step for him Bee Dee...throw in an extra candle for the above;-)

(Ildi) I share your sentiments Tress, except I feel a lot more nervous than excited. (Meg) Very excited mind you, but yes, uneasy. I guess there is a bit of trepidation on my part too....but not because I dont' think Colin can do it. I worry more about lame skits. But, hey, it's a right of passage, right? All the Hollywood big wigs have had there turn up there saying those words..."LIVE...from New York..."! If I get nervous, I don't want to imagine what ODB is going through right now! Keep thinking about Christopher Walken and the Continental Lover....and the land shark (oh....v. v. old one....showing age)....and..... (Barb) And when he's been with someone who knows what they're doing (Jon Stewart, Rupe in Cast Party interview) he comes out more. I hope it is fun for him. Yes....more than anything, I hope he has fun doing it. Maybe he'll get a taste again for a live audience (am still hoping to someday see him on stage....wishing I could be in NYC, cuz right about now, the SNL stage sounds mighty good!).

And where is Dorine? Has she fallen over from the shock? Or is she busy doing recon on the streets of NY and cultivating NBC contacts? ;-) It's going to be tough to catch the show promos on tape and there are usually two different ones done, unless I keep that channel taping in the background. The one with Megan M and the idol guy, reenacting the wardrobe malfunction, was a good one. A classically trained British theater actor and veteran of numerous memorable television and film roles LOL! The dropout! And you need to have a memory with his CV for those theater roles. ;-) Thanks for the poster, Shoshana. Cute. I can make out the first two words (Yeldah em...) but haven't a clue what the words for pearl earring might be.

(Tress)If I get nervous, I don't want to imagine what ODB is going through right now! I know, Colin said he woke in the middle of the night worrying about RC pulling off LA. LOL, he'll be up for a week with this one;-) I think he'll be OK. I want to be in NY, too.

(Tress)All the Hollywood big wigs have had there turn up there saying those words..."LIVE...from New York..."! (/i) I don't know why, but that line is just had for me to imagine him saying. As for skits, I'm thinking along the lines of a Katie Couric type of interview -- all smiley, gushy, and can't keep my hands off your knees -- type.

Let's watch those tags! ;-) BTW, Trauma has a distributor in Spain, as well as the UK, Italy, Finland, Sweden and Norway.

(Karen) Trauma has a distributor in Spain Oh good! My doppelganger can go see it! I have an evil twin in Spain right now...long story. But it sounds as if it is getting distribution.....slowly......still.....(trying not to whine) I'd like to see it in the US. I'm in slight panic mode as I keep thinking that if it doesn't get a distributor here, I'll never even see it on DVD. And this one needs to be seen!

(Evelyn)Not a bad plug .(Hey, it beats NMc) Psst....Bee Dee, your candles are slowly getting there:-))) (Moon)This is a huge step for him Bee Dee...throw in an extra candle for the above;-) I'm going to the Dollar store to stock up. I have been hoping for this for some time. Not for the show so much, I don't watch that often anymore, but for the acknowledgment factor. And I will be watching the last few minutes on Saturday just to hear them... *say my name*;-)

(Tress)If I get nervous, I don't want to imagine what ODB is going through right now! He's an actor....this is just another role for him. He's in the "pretend " business, remember;-)

Don't be nervous, gang. The show always has been and always will be somewhat uneven. Some skits are brilliant, some are ok, some are awful, and I'd imagine Colin's show will be no different. Besides, when something bombs, no one blames the host. Have you ever thought less of a host when the show has a bad week? No. He/she gets to burst out on stage to cheers, do a monologue, appear in several of the skits, introduduce the musical guest, say goodnight, and then go home. Sure, it's working without a net because it's live TV--there's no chance to do another take--but that's the fun of it. It's great exposure for him, it's a chance to show another side, and it's considered a very cool, hip thing to do which all the big stars have done. A win/win situation, IMO.

(Mari)It's great exposure for him, it's a chance to show another side, and it's considered a very cool, hip thing to do which all the big stars have done. A win/win situation, IMO. What she said!..;-))

BeeDee - While you're stocking up on candles can you light a few for the Metro Gals in hopes they can get tickets? If not, I'm sure Dorine can figure out how to sneek us through an air shaft somewhere given her impeccable track record. (Karen)And where is Dorine? Didn't she post a few days ago to let us know she was having trouble with computer access these days?

I was nervous for him the first time he was on The Daily Show, and that turned out wonderfully, but of course that is taped ;-) He could relate a fascinating story about falling on the cobbles outside. Or they could do the "following in with video-cam" thing that they do, and we could *watch* him falling on the cobbles. Off to stock the tapes...;-)

(Tress)I keep thinking that if it doesn't get a distributor here, I'll never even see it on DVD Tress, Hakuna Matata!! ...I'm thinking multiregion(just in cases) I almost bought one last summer worrying about HS;-) I'm thinking time to start browsing again--just browsing, because I'm in a half-full mood, today. I feel good vibes. (Karen)And where is Dorine? I've just had a call from her-she is indeed out of commission internet-wise. She does know about SNL-and is in total shock;-) She is only accessible by phone for the time being.

(Gail)As for skits, I'm thinking along the lines of a Katie Couric type of interview -- all smiley, gushy, and can't keep my hands off your knees -- type. I'm thinking black leather pants, air guitar .....

Reeling here from all your fall out Ladies, tho' I can't pretend to imagine the show ;-) Anyone know if we have something comparable in UK. Anyway I had a lovely surprise when opening the centre of today's Guardian review, a large pic of ODB! It's a pic of Colin at the LA premiere of GWAPE, arm round SJ and with the actress who played Tanneke. The double page spread tells the story of Joanna Scanlan's (Tanneke) "rollercoaster ride of castings, premieres and pre- Oscar parties" Sadly not even a mere mention of Colin! Can't have everything ;-(

(Sandy) I'm thinking black leather pants, air guitar I'm thinking... if only I could see it ;-)

(Mari) Sure, it's working without a net because it's live TV--there's no chance to do another take--but that's the fun of it. I'm glad he's doing it and hope he has a blast. I have no worries, after all this is the guy who didn't miss a beat when faced with uncooperative plumbing on stage, and who remained gracious with his fan base even after the pink lady incident. Haven't watched the show in years but will set the vcr for this one. (Lizza) Reeling here from all your fall out Ladies, tho' I can't pretend to imagine the show ;-) Anyone know if we have something comparable in UK. I'm not familiar with all UK shows but think Graham Norton when he involves his celebrity guests in some sort of skit. (Gail)As for skits, I'm thinking along the lines of a Katie Couric type of interview -- all smiley, gushy, and can't keep my hands off your knees -- type. Or � la BJ in EOR the book. (Meredith) Or they could do the "following in with video-cam" thing that they do, (Sandy) I'm thinking black leather pants, air guitar ..... Video-cam + blp =

Hi all! Quick check-in while mooching off someone's computer. Haven't read recent posts. Spoke to Linda earlier about the SNL gig. Bee's daughter told me last night and I took it with a grain of salt. Then Linda called and am still skeptical...won't believe it til I see it or a commercial. Can't say this particular choice for him overly thrills me, as I've thought SNL has pretty much sucked for years (sorry for the undiplomatic sentiment ;-)). I've tried periodically to watch it over the past couple of years after someone would tell me it's good, and I turn it on and don't really laugh. Haven't made it past (or frequently to) Weekend Update. That's the only thing I've found consistently funny.... since Tina Fey took it over. I can't imagine why they are having him. Usually the host is on to promote something coming out, or just out, right? GWAPE has been out for a while, and fairly low profile to boot. Who knows? I just find it an odd choice on both parts. That being said, I find it an interesting choice on his part to agree, and am actually impressed. Yet another gutsy choice. I bet he's terrified. Live TV is nervewracking I'm sure, esp trying to do comedy....at least if you're not used to it. Would LOVE to have been a fly on the wall when this came up. Would love to know the genesis of the idea period. Bet you there's a skit about him being mistaken for the other CF. Maybe he'll get a chance to swear up a storm again, pretending to be the other one. ;-)) If anyone needs me to do something, recon, something about tix, etc...you'll have to call me. I think enough of you have my phone number. I don't know when my computer will be up again, and beside tomorrow night (if things work out), I don't know when I'll get to a computer to check email and here. I have an all day seminar in the city on that Sat starting at 9am. If they give out tix to the show on the day...I have no idea how that works for that show.....I can go early if need be, or maybe skip out for a while depending on what time I'd have to be wherever I need to get tix. Does it work like Letterman? Tix are given in advance by writing, then you stand in a rush line the day of to see if there are cancellations or extras? Will try to check in tomorrow night. Maybe I'll have time to catch up on posts. :-D

(Dorine) Can't say this particular choice for him overly thrills me, as I've thought SNL has pretty much sucked for years (sorry for the undiplomatic sentiment ;-)) I haven't watched it in ages either for that reason. Can only name two of the current cast members (and probably only recognize one if he stood in front of me). I'm a bit excited to see ODB try his hand at live telly though. And...the real...the material point...ODB...in NYC...LIVE (sorry for the 'yell', just v. v. excited)...walking around for a week! NYC has all sorts of cubby holes, but there are a few where he could be hiding out. It's safari time again. ;-)

Saturday Night Live We are no longer taking ticket requests for the 2003-2004 season. Check back next summer for information about the 2004-2005 ticket lottery. For stand-by tickets: Arrive no later than 7:00am on the morning of the taping under the "NBC Studios" marquee on the 50th St. side of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. You may choose a stand-by ticket for either the 8:00pm dress rehearsal or the 11:30pm live show. Only one ticket will be issued per person. Please note that a stand-by ticket does not guarantee admission. http://www.nbc.com/nbc/footer/Tickets.shtml The following is not from an official SNL or NBC website http://www.nytix.com/TVShows/NewYork/SNL/Tickets/tickets.html The Saturday Night Live ticket lottery which used to be done in the month of August by lottery is cancelled and is not expected to be revived. Tickets must now be obtained for each show by the standby line only. Rumor also has it that Lorne Michaels doesn't like the image of people waiting 36 hours or more in the standby line for SNL , it just doesn't fit with their caring image - so we expect them to replace the standby line with something easier to handle, like the standby lottery line that Rosie used - You could arrive early, but why bother because its a lottery - Watch this space for the latest info.

(Sonia) .... but think Graham Norton Thanks Sonia, so could be a camper Colin , in something sparkly then :-)) How long does the show usually last ans about how long would the host be on for? Has there been a precedent for other film stars doing this show from time to time?

Hi Lizza, it's not really anything like Graham Norton (sorry, Sonia;-). Here are some of the people who hosted last season, from NBC's website: �SNL�s� impressive lineup of guest hosts last season featured some of the biggest stars of film, television and music including: Matt Damon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Eric McCormack, Nia Vardalos, Brittany Murphy, Robert DeNiro, Ray Liotta, Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Garner, Christopher Walken, Queen Latifah, Salma Hayek, Bernie Mac, Ray Romano, Ashton Kutcher, Adrien Brody and Dan Aykroyd. The show also featured the acting debuts of NASCAR superstar Jeff Gordon and headline-making turns by former Vice President Al Gore and Senator John McCain.

Maybe SNL is trying to get the show sold in UK.

Sorry, forgot to finish! The show is 90 minutes (including commer-shills;-). I'd say the host is on for roughly one-third to one-half the time. Host does an opening monologue (about 5 minutes or so) and participates in about half the comedy sketches. Lots of topical and political humor. Also, introduces the musical guest, who usually is on twice during the show. Other familiar faces who've hosted in recent times: Renee Z., Gwyneth, Ian McKellan, Alec Baldwin, Halle Berry, Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore . . .

Ab-so-f***ing-lute-ly fantastic!!!! Yes, I agree with Evelyn,he's an actor and this is just another role. Whatever he has to do or put himself through to prepare and perform-let it begin!!!!!! The exposure is great even the show isn't as keen as previously. Whatever happens, the cast carries the host (if need be )so he'll be brilliant.... He needs to make a gutsy move like this(out of type)to get noticed by some of those directors and producers we've been longing to have him associate with. He's aleays done very well with Jon Stewart and recently Craig Kilborne...you just ROTFLOL watching those. Hurrah!!!!!!!!

WOW! I'm STUNNED. Stunned, I tell you! *lol* Anyway, two things: 1st, there's an article about GWAPE in the SMH online (this is a reprint from the Los Angeles Daily News): http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/02/27/1077676949056.html 2nd, In Australia, Saturday Night Live is broadcast on Sunday mornings at 10 am on "Arena" channel (only on cable, but available on both Telstra and Optus)

Oops! Just remembered *we've been longing * from my post two slots above is not allowed.I speak for myself......okay, Boss?

Along with the spoofs on ODB's work, I think it would be great if they had a skit about The Apprentice. (Okay, I admit I've not viewed even one episode )Colin could use his American accent interacting with the Trump character. Let the powers that be see he can do the accent.It might produce more "jobbing" opportunities ;)

Although I'm delighted that he is hosting SNL, I do have reservations. - He'll either bomb, or come out smelling of roses! Let's hope it's the latter! But why is he choosing to do this at this stage in his career? - God only knows! I do hope he's making the right decision. I know his choices in the past have been a bit dubious.:-( Lighting candles!!

I'm wondering how many times he's already practiced in front of the mirror saying...Live from NY...I can't wait! Surreal as it all seems.

Just realized (after checking the neighbour's tv listings, as I don't have cable myself) that Australia is possibly a whole season behind on SNL... does anyone remember when John McCain was on, cuz that's who's listed for next Sunday's show... and it's only an hour long, for some insane reason - wonder how they decide which 30 minutes to cut??

John McCain was on the show last season, I believe. Anyway, wow, I've been busy offline, and I finally get back here and read THIS! I think my jaw is still squarely on the floor! I am very excited, though, and think this will be great exposure for CF, and that he'll do a fabulous job. Can't wait to see it! :-)

Thanks Mari for the low down on the show, lots of big names have been there before then. Puts it perspective. Hope he does a fantastic job and will (Janet) Come out smelling of roses otherwise could be a disaster! I think it's an interesting choice, especially as he has chosen not to appear here on any talk shows etc as he does with you, let alone live TV! Maybe he's woken up and is smelling that fairtrade coffee ;-))

Since a new public persona is emerging , I don't think it's too far-fetched to think that he might be an Oscar presenter tomorrow night. I mean...SNL? Who wudda thunk.... I'm putting in a tape...."just in cases" ;-)

Think something like Smack the Pony, but live and with a topical bent, though not 100%, with musical guest (2 numbers), and a satiric news broadcast segment. (Janet) But why is he choosing to do this at this stage in his career? - God only knows! Actually, it's more like why are *they* choosing him since he has nothing out or about to come out to plug and he's not in the news for any other reason. It really has nothing to do with a person's stage in his/her career. There is really no downside to his being on, unless he comes off as the "last British twit" and only a John Cleese can pull that one off. ;-) I've got it! Colin is going to announce on live TV that he's running against Tony Blair!

(Evelyn) I don't think it's too far-fetched to think that he might be an Oscar presenter tomorrow night. I do. The names (and I do mean names) have been announced. GGs would've been more likely...especially with GWAPE and LA out.

Re: SNL Lest anyone think Colin will be getting a big paycheck for this, the answer is no. TV shows like this do not pay a great deal of money. They are done strictly for the publicity they generate. Also, don't expect a lot of in-jokes derived from things he's said. The references have to be broad enough for people to get them. I'm betting on a Fabio/Vermeer skit. ;-)

(Karen) Colin is going to announce on live TV that he's running against Tony Blair." ROTFL! Then there would be accusations of "sexing it up " flying round the Brit political scene! So is LD trying to do a "Mrs Heinz" ? ;-)

Whoops closing tag

(Karen),I've got it! Colin is going to announce on live TV that he's running against Tony Blair! ROTF! Maybe he can do a paper chain news skit? ;-) This is just too much fun and I know I will be cringing at something he does that night, but what fun!

(Lizza) Maybe he's woken up and is smelling that fairtrade coffee ;-)) LOL....he's smellin' something. Maybe too many nappies at home? ;-D Nice chance to get out of the house for a week. Maybe Livia will stay in Rome with the babies instead of shop? (Karen) Actually, it's more like why are *they* choosing him since he has nothing out or about to come out to plug and he's not in the news for any other reason. Maybe somebody thought ODB was "naturally hilarious"! It's a mystery of the highest order of how this all came about....I hope someday ODB explains how it happened. Still, I'm thrilled that he'll be on.... This is the first time in months, I think, that ODB hasn't had at least two or three things going at once (premiering a film, interviews for another film, filming a third film)? It may be that this is the 'time' he could arrange to do this.....didn't someone say it takes about a week? That you are in and out of rehearsals and rewrites and such with this?

(Tress) Maybe somebody thought ODB was "naturally hilarious"! Sorry, but no. Not a requirement for host. (See all the political types who have appeared.) A host is a name, who will draw an audience and is game enough to make a fool of himself. Do agree this has to rank as one of the great mysteries in life. Sheesh! Your'e talking about a guy who cannot even get booked on Letterman or Leno in the second guest spot! ;-)

There is a very good article about SNL, its history, significance, and more, including a list of celeb hosts of UK interest, at the BBC's website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/guide/articles/s/saturdaynightliv_1299003553.shtml Apparently it has been shown on either ITV or BBC at one time or other during the show's nearly 30 yrs on air.Saturday Night Live has enjoyed two outings on British television. Beginning in late 1982, ITV screened 21 editions from 102 hour-length programmes of re-edited and re-packaged highlights produced by NBC for overseas sale and US syndication. Ten years on, BBC2 screened six further editions, edited from their recent broadcast in the USA (28 September to 14 November 1992 inclusively, shown in Britain from 7 November to 12 December 1992). There was also a one-off special, Saturday Night Live Goes Commercial, a compendium of TV advert send-ups by Murphy, Murray, Aykroyd, Belushi, Chase and others, screened by London-area ITV on 28 November 1992. From 17 to 31 January 1996 C4 screened three 60-minute programmes, The Best Of Aykroyd, Belushi And Chase, that compiled (actually in reverse order) the best SNL comedy moments from each of the three comics. Finally, two attempts to capture the same eel as SNL have been made in Britain: Saturday Live (1985-87 and 1996) and Friday Night Live (1988). Is it shown there now? I'd like to add such details, if possible to the news page.

(Karen), Do agree this has to rank as one of the great mysteries in life. Sheesh! Your'e talking about a guy who cannot even get booked on Letterman or Leno in the second guest spot! ;-) Now to Ripley's Believe it or Not: Colin will be on Letterman next Thursday to promote his gig on SNL. ;-) I bet his agent is working on this.

Well, this will teach me NOT to stay away too long!! WOW WOW WOW!! Does anyone think Katie Couric might have challenged him or the SNL folks to have him? Love everyone's ideas about what he'll do. I watch SNL from time to time and I agree that the caliber of the show is nowhere near what it used to be. Having said that, he's going to be fine, whatever the material. IMHO, this is a great publicity shot. Obviously he's not too "lofty" about this exposure.

Speculation: perhaps SNL appearance is a result of ODB's reception (thanks to fellow droolers) at the NY premiere of LA?

Wonder if Katie will use his presence in NYC as an excuse to have him on the Today Show--right in the neighborhood...He'll be there most of the upcoming week. Although, host may not have to show up bright and early on Monday. As was mentioned, lurking around NBC could yield drool-purtunities.

I am in complete shock that Colin was invited to host SNL. Despite what us old fogeys may think, the show is hugely popular with the teenage to 34 demographic, most of whom probably never heard of him. Most hosts are very high-profile, big-name stars who have a movie to promote. With no new movies and his low profile, Colin being asked just doesn't make any sense. He'll gain more exposure in the U.S. in this one night than during the whole run of GWAPE. And it sure helps having Norah Jones - the hottest singer of the moment - as the musical guest. Maybe Tina Fey, the Weekend Update host and head writer of the show (the first female head ever) is a big fan. She's that nerdy, brainy, funny type of girl who could've had P&P-viewing parties at her East Coast college. Or maybe the producer's wife is a Firth fanatic. Who knows - maybe Norah Jones is a big fan. What will be most interesting is the closing, when the host thanks everybody and the whole cast appears. That's when you see how popular he was with everybody. I remember fellow Brit Christopher Lee being presented with a big bouquet of roses (never seen that before or since) and an overflow of affection. Another Brit Miranda Richardson was the exact opposite, as she just stood there and you could just feel the chill. Hope Colin is more like Lee, and is as charming and funny as he was on The Daily Show and The View.

I'm sure Katie Couric will be happy that he's just around the corner . .I could see her dropping hints;) . .I think she was the one who got Colin into the People Magazine spread some years ago?:) Can I confess . .I emailed Katie the adresses for firth.com and Drool . .perhaps she's a lurker:)? RE: Colin on SNL . . I hope he just enjoys himself . . .I know he'll be just fabulous! . . regardless of how the writing is on that show . .it's got some good and bad moments . .but for him, I'll tune in any day . .not to mention standing on line if possible to see him work live!;) (Mari)so anyone hanging around 30 Rock should be in good position for a sighting. Hmmm . .so perhaps it is fate that my temp job ended last week leaving me open for trolling around 30 Rock this coming week???:) Keep your fingers crossed . .will let you know about any sightings, if any occur!

Am watching SNL now, and they just announced Colin as next week's host, so . . . it's happening! Happy trails, Metro Gals! Gee, we're a great bunch of fans: "How the hell did they pick him?" LOL! Don't sell him short. He's coming off a big box office hit and a critically acclaimed film. More people know him than you think. Was watching my tape of his most recent talk show appearances, and those audiences were screaming; his base goes way beyond the groups we know of. He's funny and the hosts like him. Maybe Jon Stewart egged him on.

(Karen) Actually, it's more like why are *they* choosing him since he has nothing out or about to come out to plug and he's not in the news for any other reason. (Tress) It's a mystery of the highest order of how this all came about.... (Karen) Do agree this has to rank as one of the great mysteries in life. (Katty) Most hosts are very high-profile, big-name stars who have a movie to promote. With no new movies and his low profile, Colin being asked just doesn't make any sense. Was just thinking today that should I get a chance to speak with him again, this was, in fact, the subject of my *first* question....How did this come about?.... or variations thereof. One of my other thoughts.... can Letterman or Leno be far behind when the time is right to promote something? (Kimberly) I know he'll be just fabulous! . . regardless of how the writing is on that show . .it's got some good and bad moments At worst, I suppose, it will just be dull as it has been with other people who I really like who've hosted. God knows I hope not, though.