News items dated from September - December 2003 are on this page.

Dec 31 2003 - Are you a CSI fan, live in the New York City region, and want to see never-before-seen footage from the show??.... The Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center (an agency of the UJA-Federation of Greater New York, committed to initiatives in informal Jewish education and providing high-quality programs for underserved segments of the community) is delighted to invite you to their 2004 benefit: An Evening with CSI: Crime Scene Investigation -- American's #1 Television Series! Enjoy a fascinating look behind the scenes of this forensic, drama series. Actor David Berman, who plays CSI's Assistant Coroner Dr. Philips, will share his experiences as a star on this hit forensic series. His presentation will include never-before-seen film footage, including hilarious bloopers and spectacular special effects. The evening will culminate in a live auction of CSI memorabilia -- including an actual appearance on the show – and other items. Get ready for your close-up! Date: January 31st, 2004 Location: The Lighthouse Address: 111 East 59th Street (between Park and Lexington Avenues) New York, NY 6:00-7:15pm - Cocktails, Hors D'oeuvres and Silent Auction 7:15-8:30pm - CSI Presentation and Live Auction RSVP by January 16, 2004 Go here for information on purchasing your tickets online. For further information, please call Sharon Goldman at (212) 242-5586. (Thanks to Adam Berman, Executive Director, Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center, for the news.

Dec 31 2003 - In an article on police dramas entitled "Violent ways of law and disorder," CSI is mentioned briefly... "Australians audiences appear attracted to the bleeding obvious. We like TV that doesn't make us think too much. As well made and supremely entertaining as the CSI series is, you can leave your brain at the door." (Source: Australian News)

Dec 31 2003 - The NBC Michael Mann crime drama Crime Story (from 1986) is being released on DVD. One article on its release said... "And like Wiseguy, this first season showcases stars before their time: David Caruso as a hotshot hood in the pilot, Julia Roberts as a molested teen toward season's end. Look for supporting work from Lorraine Bracco, Stanley Tucci, Gary Sinise, Andrew Dice Clay, Wiseguy's Ray Sharkey, Monk's Ted Levine, CSI's Paul Guilfoyle and series regular Bill(y) Campbell of Once and Again. (Source: New York Newsday)

Dec 30 2003 - As reported earlier, South Carolina firefighter Christine Hubenthal got a chance to play a corpse in the upcoming CSI episode "Eleven Angry Jurors," when she wrote to CBS's Early Show for its 'Week of Wishes.' She'll be seen on the autopsy table during the first half of the episode. But she says "I'm not the main corpse, just an extra. (Source: January 3-9, 2004 TV Guide)

Dec 30 2003 - It appears CBS is narrowing down the third show to either CSI: New York, or CSI: New Orleans.

Dec 30 2003 - Further details are out on the third season CSI DVD series. Check the Merchandise page for details.

Dec 30 2003 - If you're into crime ... as in viewing crime shows on TV, CBS is rapidly becoming the Crime Broadcasting System... Along with the two CSIs, Without a Trace, NCIS, and Cold Case, they're adding CCAT: Career Criminal Apprehension Team to their lineup. "The show follows the workings of a law enforcement agency dedicated to capturing career criminals before they strike again. It comes from writers J.P. Donahue and Kevin Polay, both former attorneys." (Reuters)

Dec 29 2003 - Didn't get to attend the CSI Christmas Party? Well, no worry, none of us did. ;) However, Dr. Gary Telgenhoff did, and posted some nifty shots of cast members (and himself) enjoying themselves. Visit Dr.T's page here! Plus some great behind-the-scenes shots from "Coming of Rage."

Dec 28 2003 - CSI was listed as TV Guide's "#5 moment" on their special shown on ABC tonight. They showed a clip of the lab blowing up, as well as who was responsible.

Dec 28 2003 - As reported earlier on this page, Mount Pleasant firefighter Charlene Hubenthal would make her television debut as a corpse on CSI. She's tentatively scheduled to appear in the January 8th episode, playing a car-wreck victim in the morgue and will have about 10 seconds screen time. (Source: Charleston.net)

Dec 27 2003 - Policemen in Malaysia are being urged to watch more television - specifically, CSI, The Shield, Law and Order: Special Victims Unit and World's Wildest Police Videos. The government would like policemen and the public to better understand both the limitations and expectations of law enforcement. Read the full article at NewStraitsTimes.

Dec 24 2003 - Three of the most-watched shows on prime time TV last week were all produced by Jerry Bruckheimer -- CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Without a Trace and CSI: Miami, on CBS, easily won the week's ratings race. A fourth Bruckheimer show, Cold Case, ranked ninth for the week. CBS averaged 12.4 million viewers (8.0 rating, 13 share). But since nearly two-thirds of CBS' audience was outside of the 18-

Dec 24 2003 - In a poll of 1,100 adults in a Harris poll, Oprah Winfrey is the #1 favorite television personality, followed by David Letterman (#2), Bill O'Reilly (#3), Ray Romano (#4), Jay Leno (#5), Jon Stewart (#6), Dr. Phil (#7), William Petersen (#8), Whoopi Goldberg (#9), and a three-way tie for #10 - Martin Sheen, Ellen DeGeneres and Jennifer Anniston.

Dec 23 2003 - The Sacramento Bee did a satirical "'Tis a Wonderful White Miracle of Holiday Bells: CSI -- Christmas Season Investigation." (Rated TV-G/SP. May be unsuitable for serious people.) One section from the CSI portion reads ""You can see by these tiny bugs that the dirt is not from a reindeer," says Gil Grissom (William Petersen). "I sure love bugs, though." Click on the link before they yank the story!

Dec 23 2003 - The Rocky Mountain News has an article which says "CSI was her favorite program." The mother of Bernadette Sanchez, who planned to become a forensics detective, said of her late daughter, who was murdered during the weekend. The 24-year-old worked as a booking clerk in the sheriff's justice center detention division. She was such a reliable employee that when she did not appear for work on Saturday, deputies asked the Denver police to check her home. They found her dead.

Dec 23 2003 - Zap2It.com has suggestions for the year 2004: "...Gil Grissom on CSI: Ask Sarah out, because we can't stand her cow-eyed longing anymore. Be nicer to Nick, because George Eads needs more screen time. And that beard? How Manhunter of you.

Dec 21 2003 - Gary Dourdan will be a guest on the Jimmy Kimmel Show on January 14th.

Dec 20 2003 - If you're reading this text, you're on a computer, and why not add a brand-new CSI mousepad to your collection? This lenticular mousepad features a full color picture of the CSI cast, and when you view the mousepad from a different angle, you see the fingerprint duster. Check out the Merchandise page for more details.

Dec 18 2003 - Earlier this week, it was reported that the character of Bobby Dawson (portrayed by actor Gerald McCullouch) would 'come out of the closet.' Today, the Washington Blade wrote that the announcement was premature. Although the scene was shot for the December 11th episode, it was cut due either for time consideration or content, said a CBS rep. The Blade reports that "The network rep said there are still plans for the character to come out on the show, but that decision could change at any time." The producers apologized to McCullouch for the cut. Read the full article (link above) for more details.

Dec 18 2003 - For a bunch of press photographs from the recent CSI Vanity Fair party, check out Getty Images. You can also search for other actors at the site.

Dec 18 2003 - Congratulations! CSI was nominated (along with 24, Nip/Tuck, Six Feet Under, The West Wing ) for Best Television Series - Drama at the Golden Globe Awards which will be broadcast live on January 25th from the Beverly Hilton Hotel. And.... William Petersen was nominated for Best Actor in A Television Series - Drama for CSI (against Michael Chiklis The Shield, Anthony LaPlaglia Without a Trace, Martin Sheen West Wing, Kiefer Sutherland 24).

Dec 18 2003 - Nicholas Roye, a Salmen High School graduate, will appear in tonight's CSI as a Todd "a hip suburban (character) with a lot of attitude." Unlike many guest stars on CSI, his character is a suspect, not a corpse. In one of the episode's story lines, the CSI team is "investigating the murder of a woman who is my ex-wife," Roye said. "I don't die." Read more at the Times Picayune.

Dec 16 2003 - CSI makes the cover (in the upper right corner) of the U.S. edition of December 20-26, 2003 issue of TV Guide with "The Hunky Men of CSI." George Eads, Gary Dourdan, Eric Szmanda (CSI) and Rory Cochrane and Adam Rodriquez (CSI: Miami) were profiled by ... 1) team member, 2) no, but I play one on TV, 3) gross-out moment, 4) prior to wearing the latex gloves, 5) it's true, and 6) When he's not lifting fingerprints. Here are a few tidbits from the last section (#6):

• George - plays golf and hangs around with his Labrador dog
• Gary - writes and records music; has been linked to Lisa Snowden
• Rory - plays chess, races motorcycles and soups up his Porsche
• Adam - composes spoken-word poetry; learning to play the guitar
• Eric - works as music consultant on films; is "single and looking"

TV Guide should prepare itself for a deluge of letters from fans demanding to know why William Petersen wasn't listed among the "hunky men" of CSI. Apparently TV Guide doesn't read the fan boards ;) Their address is Letters Department, TV Guide, Radnor, PA 19088 or cheersandjeers@tvguide.com. Letters must include the name, address and home phone number of the letter writer.

Dec 16 2003 - More on the Vanity Fair party held in Vegas this past weekend. "I have to say, if I had come to a place like this when I was (driving a tram) at The Mirage," said Anthony Zuiker of the grand welcome he and the CSI cast received at the (Light) Bellagio, "they'd never have let a guy like me in." For George Eads, life has changed as well. "I have a maid now," who not only cleans, but cooks, he told the Las Vegas Sun. "When it is meal time, I now eat things that were not delivered moments earlier in a plastic bag." Meanwhile, producer Elizabeth Devine entertained the reporters with tales from her former job, and explained that many of the "grossest stories" are based on real-life incidents. Also appearing at Light were Marg Helgenberger, Eric Szmanda, Robert David Hall and Gary Dourdan.

Dec 16 2003 - From the St. Petersburg Times, a tongue-in-cheek column on "holiday newsletters we'd like to see." "Here's how glamorous being a celebrity in a hit TV show really is. Notice how bad I look, third from the left, in this CSI cast photo from a party Vanity Fair threw for us in Vegas only because we were in town for filming. (Is there anything Vanity Fair won't do to kiss up to celebrities?) I was up at 4 a.m. for filming in the desert. Then, after a 15-hour day, I was forced to go home, change and make an appearance to keep CBS happy. (Is there a Hollywood PR person who doesn't want Vanity Fair kissing up to them?) What I still want to know is why Bill Petersen, the guy who plays Grissom, got out of photo duty. - Keep your DNA in check, Marg Helgenberger."

Dec 16 2003 - Is CSI: New Orleans next? So poses a New Orleans newspaper. They saw the line in the TV Guide, as it seems CSI: New York and CSI: New Orleans are the most talked-about options for a third series. A spokeswoman for Alliance Atlantis says that a city has not yet been chosen, but Chris Ender, a senior VP of communications for CBS, said, "New Orleans would be a great backdrop for just about any series," but said that drawing any conclusion is at this point in time "a little premature. He added "It's no secret that (CBS) has been discussing expanding the 'CSI' franchise.We don't have a timetable yet on the who, what, when or how." Even David Caruso speculated that New Orleans might be the next setting: ""I think the model is so proven that there is a real temptation to expand, and I wouldn't be shocked if you saw 'CSI: New Orleans,' " he said to CNN. (Source: NOLA.Com)

Dec 15 2003 - As reported on this site earlier this week, CSI is back on location in Vegas to shoot scenes for "Suckers," the 14th episode of season four. Anthony Zuiker says "it's our 'caper' episode," and adds that it's about a "Steve Wynn-like casino owner." William Petersen, Marg Helgenberger, Gary Dourdan, George Eads, Jorja Fox, and Paul Guilfoyle will all be in town for a 3-day shoot, and all but Petersen went to a Vanity Fair party at Bellagio's Light nightclub. Zuiker enthused: "Vanity Fair is throwing us a party -- how cool is that?" CSI will be filming at The Palomino Club, which will be transformed in to a 'goth-style lair'; the Hollywood Props warehouse, to be used by a character who crafts artifacts; Green Valley Ranch, where a swimming pool is used for a flashback sequence; Caesars Palace, for scenes on the casino floor and in the President Suite. The article also poses the question about a third CSI: "If I were a gambling man, I'd bet on it happening sooner rather than later," said Zuiker, who told the Review-Journal that show executives are currently are discussing the possibilities with CBS president Les Moonves. "Nothing's been determined," said Zuiker adds. But "there's a pretty good possibility it will happen in the future -- and it shall be fun." Shifting back to the present, Zuiker predicts they'll have a great sweeps period in February, as "We have some really big monsters (episodes) coming up." Also, once shooting ends this Wednesday, CSI is on vacation for a holiday break until January. (Source: Las Vegas Review-Journal) You can view several photos of the CSI gang at the December 14th Vanity party at:

• Gary Dourdan.
• Eric Szmanda, Marg Helgenberger and George Eads.
• Jorja Fox and George Eads.
• Robert David Hall and his wife Judy.
• Paul Guilfoyle.
• Marg Helgenberger.
• Entire cast (minus William Petersen).

Dec 15 2003 - A December 12th Los Angeles Times article talks about limo companies, and even CSI uses them. Roy Carroll, who has been in the limo business for over 20 years, runs a Cucamonga-based limo service, which has a variety of limos, from six-passenger limos to a new 14-passenger Excursion "with all the bells and whistles". His schedule has enabled him to work for a variety of television productions, such as CSI, Without a Trace, and The Handler.

Dec 15 2003 - CSI has boosted CBS's profits, and made forensics a highly desirable career choice. In James Gaskill's forensics class, lower-division students are actually assigned to watch CSI and then list 10 inaccuracies and five accuracies within the show. "The single biggest complaint we have against (the show) is they do everything," from collecting evidence to interrogating suspects, he said. In reality, most crime scene investigators are civilian employees of police departments. The main reason I don't watch CSI is they never mark or identify evidence. There's no paperwork. Their evidence would be thrown out in court" in the real world, Gaskill said. Meanwhile, Mitch Pilkington, an investigator with the Weber Metro Crime Scene Investigation Unit, is doing a master's project on the first 23 episodes of CSI. One of the biggest flaws in the show, he says, is the use of "blue light" (called "alternative light"). In reality, the light is dark and can't be seen. Blue lights are used primarily to detect hair, fibers and body fluids. Read the full article at DescretNews.

Dec 15 2003 - Ubisoft has released details on the second PC game entitled CSI: Dark Motives. The game will be for sale in March 2004, and as with the first game, will feature the voices and likenesses of the entire CSI cast. The new game promises "gameplay improvements including in-depth evidence examination, scalable difficulty and more interactive lab functionality." Visit the Merchandise page for full details.

Dec 15 2003 - Only Extra TV! (of the infotainment shows) covered CSI cast members at the Vanity Fair party. Eric, George and Marg were shown, and discussed their vacation plans for the holiday break.

Dec 15 2003 - Would you be excited if your pen was used in a murder? Apparently Floaty pen people can. In the episode "Cats in the Cradle," an elderly woman is stabbed with a pen. To be precise, it was an Eskesen slanted top twist n click floaty, designed by artist Jack Keely. It is referred to as the Pampered Cat or Fancy Cat pen. Although, a Floaty pen person says "From now on, it will likely be thought of as the Killer Cat pen." Apparently a Floaty Pen rep met with Richard Lewis, writer-producer Josh Berman, and several CSI cast members. A Floaty community exists, and Marg knows all about these pens. Read more at Float About.

Dec 15 2003 - Casting news: Madison McReynolds, who plays Lindsey Willows, has been cast in the Ed Zwick-directed independent film Elvis Has Left the Building, which stars Kim Basinger and Billy Ray Cyrus. Madison will play Kim Basinger's character as a child.

Dec 15 2003 - News from the past (April 2003). Marg Helgenberger was one of several celebrities who visited Rescu Cosmetique on Montana in Santa Monica before the Oscars. Marg Helgenberger (CSI) was in shopping for products as well as Peta Wilson who wanted product assistance in preparation for the Vanity Fair party. (Source: Canyongossip)

Dec 15 2003 - Will fans soon be writing television shows? A new technology called Fanlib will allow fans of TV shows to jointly write scripts for an episode. This internet-based software was developed by a New York-based company, My2centences, due to the growing online activity of fan fiction. Chris Williams, co-founder and CEO of M2centences, sees special fan episodes or perhaps a 'fan night' where networks can pump up exiting TV shows with a one-time special program. This software is targeted to the 13-20 market. Reportedly, CSI and Friends are the two more active shows on fan fiction web sites. The biggest obstacle will be the Writers Guild of America. A writer needs to be a member in order to write for network TV shows, as TV writing contests and promotions are new, and writing, even if it's voluntary, is considered employment. While the article states that TV showrunners have looked at fan fiction to get story ideas, staff writers on network shows feel threatened as fan ideas could supplant their own [technically, if a TV show uses a fan fiction plot and writing without compensation, that's copyright infringement]. FanLib did a beta test at a Harry Potter site called Snitchseeker.com, in which 6,000 people submitted scenes, and over 125,000 visited the site during the test. Read the full story at a TV Week.

Dec 15 2003 - On the Alliance-Atlantis front, Variety reports that the company's TV production has reduced its annual hours from 370 broadcast hours in 1999, down to 80 this year, and half of those are CSI episodes. Alliance-Atlantis will remain a producer of CSI, and is encouraging a third series.

Dec 15 2003 - By now, all CSI fans are aware of the real-life 'Body Farm' in Tennessee, in which cadavers are used to study decomposition in order to aid forensic science. CSI is mentioned, of course, in the article: "Maybe you think dead bodies can't 't get any more gruesomely scientific than the ones shown on TV shows like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, with lead investigator Gill Grissom purring about maggots and pathologist Al Robbins waxing about degrees of putrefaction. Well, think again. The reality is much more gruesome, and also much more scientific." Apparently with the correct conditions, you can turn a body into a skeleton in just 12 days. A new type of body has hit the Body Farm though: they're receiving donations of 400- and 500-pound individuals, which can be instrumental in study due to the epidemic of obesity that is raging through the U.S. Read the full story at the Toronto Star.

Dec 15 2003 - Along with Survivor, CSI has pushed Viacom's CBS network to the top of the hill in the ratings race, which helps attract sponsors. Fortunately CSI has avoided the obvious sponsorship that litters Survivor, in which General Motors gave away an Envoy SUV. CSI's sponsorship is mostly silent, hidden with product placement such as cellphones, etc., that the characters used. Read more at www.fool.com.

Dec 14 2003 - Read some neat behind-the-scenes tidbits from an Assistant Director, named Mindee, at her site. She's also got up some shots of George Eads and Paul Guilfoyle on the set as well.

Dec 13 2003 - Look for Eric Szmanda (Greg Sanders) an upcoming music video. MTV reports that "Original Marilyn Manson bassist Gidget Gein appears in the video for Manson's next single, Saint, which was filmed last month at Los Angeles' Argyle Hotel. XXX actress Asia Argento directed and stars in the clip alongside Eric Szmanda of CSI. The video is expected to surface in January. ..."

Dec 13 2003 - In an article in U.S. print version of TV Guide on networks playing it safe in regards to creating new shows (in other words, it's safer to make copies of current successful shows), it says in the Robins Report ... "So CSI breeds CSI: Miami and, next year, CSI: New Orleans or CSI: New York. If you ever find yourself watching CSI: Mayberry, you'll know CBS has reached the bottom of the CSI barrel."

Dec 13 2003 - The cast of CSI will once again be doing some location shooting in Las Vegas from December 9-15th, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. It's possible this is the Palomino Club news reported back on the 12th.

Dec 13 2003 - On January 5, 2004, Marg Helgenberger and Sean Astin will announce the nominations for the Producers Guild of America January 17th award gala. Does not appear to be a televised event.

Dec 12 2003 - CSI is profiled in the October 19th Entertainment Weekly magazine. In the article "Sleuth and Justice," writer Ken Tucker says that CSI and CSI: Miami's "killer brand of creepy comfort television keeps getting better." He also says what might really appeal to viewers is that these CSI folk work in "idealized workplaces. I'll wager," says Tucker, " that most of you who have jobs find much of your work tedious, interrupted regularly by stupid annoyances," and then cites annoyances that we all know too much about (managers, co-workers, etc.). The big news in CSI this season is that Grissom grew a beard, that his hearing problem went away, and that the Grissom/Sara angle was "quickly shed." The only cast member on the show can drag her personal life into her work is Catherine.... she has a past "...so seamy, it's kind decadent-cool: the former stripper has learned that the old casino-owner coot who used to be a father figure to her was really her father - and that Daddy has committed a murder." The article then covers CSI: Miami which, in blunt terminology, "no longer sucks." CSI is given an A- while CSI: Miami receives a B in E.W.'s rating system. The E.W. issue in on newsstands this week.

Dec 12 2003 - As reported earlier this year on this site, William Petersen was one of several Chicago celebrities who participated in the making of This Odd Club, a 90-minute documentary on Ron Santo, who played third base for the Chicago Cubs. His son Jeff, an L.A. filmmaker, made the film, and is currently in talks with Tom Hanks' company, Playtone Productions, to distribute it. He is aiming for an early March release at some independent theaters. Jeff used Chicago actors William Petersen, Bill Murray, Gary Sinise, Dennis Franz, and others to tell the story of Ron Santo in 1969. Joe Mantegna, another Chicago actor, narrates the film. Read the full article at the BayArea.com site.

Dec 12 2003 - To Live and Die in L.A. (1985) is out on DVD, so the Chicago Tribune did a little flashback on how the film came to be... In this article, Chicago native and director William Friedkin explains how he took three unknown Chicago actors -- William Petersen, Willem Dafoe and John Pankow - and created the movie. Friedkin didn't set out to hire Petersen or Pankow. It was Rob Weiner, the casting director, who went up to the Stratford Festival in Straford, Ontario (Canada) and found Petersen doing A Streetcar Named Desire. "I flew up to see it and I thought the guy was a real original, didn't borrow from Brando at all," said Friedkin. "And he had never done a movie. Then there was Johnny Pankow, who was recommended and who had also never done a movie." Red more at the ChicagoTribune.

Dec 12 2003 - Once something becomes a success, it's bound to be parodied. In the new Farrellys brother release, Stuck on You, they do just that with CSI. Matt Damon and Greg Kinnear play twins joined at the hip (literally). When Walt (Kinnear) decides to pursue an acting career in Hollywood, he's chosen by Cher to her co-star for her new TV show, a CSI parody called Honey and Beaze. (Source: Cleveland.com)

Dec 12 2003 - CSI and CSI: Miami are one of many U.S. television shows that are making their mark on Australian television screens this year. In fact, U.S. crime TV dramas such as the Law & Order franchise, Without a Trace, and Monk are doing very well. Why? An article theorizes that crimes are investigated and suspects are safely locked away, unlike real life. The do-gooders (be it crime scene investigators, detectives, or streep cops) exemplify efficiency and integrity. The stories, especially in a post 9/11 society, revolve around justice, and the battle of good and evil. Solutions are simple in a world that is anything but. Read the full (and fascinating) story at TheAge.com.

Dec 12 2003 - CSI will be filming a scene for the upcoming episode "Suckers" at the world famous Palomino Club in Las Vegas. The scene will feature Marg Helgenberger and Gary Dourdan. Luis Hidalgo, owner of the Palamino Club, said "We are very pleased to be recognized as a location setting for this great show. I'm a former employee of the San Bruno, California Police Department and CSI has been a favorite of mine since its first show. The Palomino Club's clean, retro look of 70s Las Vegas and safe, comfortable environment makes it a very good fit with the look and feel of CSI." The Palolmino Club, established in 1969, is the oldest gentlemen's entertainment club in Las Vegas. (Source: PrimeZone)

Dec 11 2003 - The Advocate says that in an upcoming episode, the character Bobby Dawson (portrayed by actor Gerald McCullouch) will be 'coming out of the closet.' The article further said " In an interview on Sirius Out Q Radio's Harrison on the Edge program, McCullouch said that Bobby will be presented in a long-term committed relationship with another man with whom he is raising an adopted daughter." The site also said "This Thursday on CSI, it will be revealed that his character is gay and has a child." [Didn't catch it myself, unless it was cut or is in another episode.]

Dec 11 2003 - Lady Heather spills the beans! Actress Melissa Clarke gives an interview to Eonline in which she says of her time on CSI ... "Yes. I loved working on CSI, but it's almost impossible to do both (CSI and the O.C.). I would love to do it though. I think Lady Heather is one of my favorite characters. She's so different from Julie." (Thanks to Mikki for the tip)

Dec 11 2003 - William Petersen is up on his high horse, that is... High Horse Productions, which William Petersen co-runs with Cindy Chvatal. They will co-executive produce a movie on TNT based on the James Ellroy bestseller Clandestine. This is one of several productions under the High Horse label: others include Dogstar, written by David Class. High Horse is also developing a superhero action comedy feature with writer Steve DeKnight (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) that "will serve as a potential starring vehicle for Petersen." Meanwhile, Clandestine will center on a 1950s-era Los Angeles officer (portrayed by Petersen) who, while on the trail of a serial killer, finds himself falling in with some bad cops, inevitably taking the fall for their misdeeds. The project is in early development at this point. TNT exec Michael Wright has had his eye on High Horse for a while... "We identified a number of people who make sense for TNT when I came aboard. Billy just has a weight to his work that I've been a fan of for a long time. I'd read Ellroy's 'L.A. Confidential,' and I think the combination of Billy and one of Ellroy's signature urban crime dramas will do very well for us." Cindy Chvatal says "Billy was looking to do a gritty cop drama, and we're both fans of Ellroy's books.His novels, however, are very hard to get optioned, so you can imagine how thrilled we are to be doing this. TNT was immediately interested, having done plenty of projects using the work of bestselling authors." CBS's executive VP of drama development, Nina Tassler, said of William Petersen and CSI: "Billy, Cindy and Jonathan Littman and Anthony E. Zuiker worked very intimately on the concept for the show," she said. "In today's climate, a show is really required to define itself early on, and I think Billy and Cindy brought a strong point of view to the show from the get-go. Billy's got incredible development instincts. He comes to the process as a partner rather than just a hired actor." Chvatal says of the old days in Chicago, where both she and Petersen met: "We used to do renegade theater with about $1.98 to produce, which actually gave us a leg up ... we found that TV is not unlike theater: It's all about collaboration, and you learn to work with the same group of people day after day. Billy has an eye for material and, because of his background in theater, knows production inside out." While High Horse will focus their efforts on scripted material, they also have plans for reality programs as well. (Source: Variety)

Dec 09 2003 - Alliance Atlantis Communcations is cutting 60-70 jobs and closing several offices at its production buisness due to a 'downtown' in global demand for primetime TV series, miniserise and independent films. However, CSI remains untouched as it's the golden goose for Alliance Altantis. The Toronto Star states that "Alliance is relying on CSI's ability to generate hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue over the next few years to further pay down debt. CSI series generated 35 per cent of the company's entertainment division revenue in the second quarter." Peter Sussman, CEO of Alliance's entertainment group, will be leaving the company due to this reorganization. "When we complete this reorganization of the entertainment group and complete our comprehensive refinancing plan during the coming year, we expect the company will be very well positioned to deliver substantially more stable, predictable and growing earnings and cash flows from our broadcast assets, our controlling interest in the Movie Distribution Income Fund and our valuable CSI franchise," said company chairman and CEO Michael MacMillan.

Dec 09 2003 - A study released by the Parents Television Council counted 534 separate episodes of prime-time violence on the six major broadcast networks during hte first two weeks of hte November 'sweeps' in 2002. That was up from 292 incidents during the same period four years earlier. Incidents cited includeded CSI ... During the four-year period, CBS' forensics drama, "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," became the nation's most popular television program. Among the incidents cited in the study from last year: Gil cutting a finger off a dead man's body in "CSI"; a man being shot in the forehead on NBC's "Boomtown"; a warlock on the WB's "Charmed" taking a human heart from someone still alive. (Source: DallasNews)

Dec 09 2003 - The Chicago Sun-Times says ... "Congrats to Chicago actor William Petersen, star of the popular CBS CSI: Crime Scene Investigation series, on the birth of grandson Mazrik William to his lovely daughter Maite and her husband, Carl Della Badia."

Dec 08 2003 - IDW Publishing has announced a third CSI comic book series - Demon House, by Max Allan Collins ... Gil Grissom and his team of Las Vegas CSIs already have their hands full with a gang of costumed robbers, when what looks like an accidental killing inside a charity-event “haunted house” may turn out to be murder. Visit the Merchandise page for full details as well as a photo of the front cover.

Dec 08 2003 - Internet cafes are not new, but in Melbourne, Australia, a new one has opened up - 03 Convergence in the northern suburb of Reservoir - that boast 32 business-class and economy-class seats from an aircraft, 20 of which are fitted with TV screens and wired for internet, DVD and games. The cafe is doing well, and runs training programs, and hosts events as well. The owner, Anthony Chidiac, says that along with his wife (and business partner) Laura, " also plan other events that combine different technologies socially. One idea is CSI nights where customers watch the television program together on a large screen and then play the computer game in their airline chairs." Read more at SMH.com.au.

Dec 06 2003 - Some flashbacks down memory lane...

• In Feb 2000, Variety posted the simple statement... "The Bruckheimer project, meanwhile, is an hourlong drama called CSI. Anthony Zuiker will write and, along with Bruckheimer, serve as exec producer of the skein from Jerry Bruckheimer Films, Touchstone and CBS Prods. William Petersen is attached to star. Show concerns a team of forensic crime scene investigators working in Las Vegas. "
• Back in October 2000, CSI was reviewed by Variety before it aired. "Just when police shows are going for bigger and bolder action, moviemaker Jerry Bruckheimer, master of the big bang theory, decides to get small. We're talking hair follicles and fingerprints; CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is a painstaking detailed and sometimes stomach-turning look at the minutiae of evidence that the crack squad of the Las Vegas Criminalistics Department uses to track down bad guys. Buoyed by a talented cast, CSI may not have much competition from ABC's Friday night duo of Norm and Madigan Men, but Dateline NBC and Fox's Police Videos might seem like a viable alternative to watching people crawl around a toilet bowl in search of toenail clippings. " and ... "Dubbed the nerd squad' by local law enforcement, the dedicated and clearly obsessive/compulsive team of investigators is led by Gil Grissom, a seasoned pro with an office full of gruesome trophies. Although [William] Petersen attempts to instill a sense of professionalism in the role, he tends to comes off as creepy and even lecherous, especially in scenes with female coworkers."
• In Dec 2001, Peter Sussman of Alliance Atlantis said in Variety of a CSI spinoff "If we do it, we'll do it properly and not kill the goose that laid the golden egg. We haven't gotten a strategy in place yet. But this is a business about creating assets, so CBS and Jerry Bruckheimer and (our company) would be smart to consider that as a strategy."
• More spinoff talk... Anthony Zuiker said in Variety on Sep. 2, 2002, that ""The challenge is we had to make them different, yet executionwise they're the same. "Zuiker also admits to a fair amount of sibling rivalry between the original CSI crew and the spinoff. "I characterize it as, you have a 2-year-old in the house and a newborn on the way. When the newborn is born, the 2-year-old is not happy, but after six months they're playing together in the sandbox."

Dec 05 2003 - Did you know ... ? William Petersen was a member of the class of 1972 of the Bishop Kelly High School in Boise, Idaho. (Source: AlumKnights)

Dec 05 2003 - According to a website, William Petersen has dined at Cucinabella, a restaurant in Chicago. Just one of those things you trip over on a web search. ;) Also an interesting but not quite updated bio on William here that also includes info on Paul Guilfoyle.

Dec 05 2003 - In response to a query on our messageboard, I found the following the Chicago Tribune website: From the February 17, 1995 issue entitled "Mamet Sticks Close to his Chicago Roots for New TV Series" (page 24), it says ... Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Mamet has penned a pilot for a TV series. The story line? A former Chicago cop becomes a criminologist at the University of Chicago. His girlfriend is a publicist at the Art Institute of Chicago. The guy who'll star? Another Chicago talent, William Petersen. NBC's interested in the project. If it gets the go-ahead, filming would start in-where else?-Chicago in April.

Dec 04 2003 - You too can own your own ProScope and find those epithelial cells on your keyboard ;) The ProScope isa handheld USB microscope that has been featured on both CSI and CSI: Miami. The makes of ProScope have put up a page with all the details on their equipment as well as 'Professor ProScope', who is the company's marketing director. Read the full press release at BusienssWire.com

Dec 04 2003 - Decades ago, Quincy was the reigning science show on television, long before CSI and its knock-offs graced the TV set. Jack Klugman played the crusading medical examiner from 1976 through 1983, and says today of medical examiners: "It's a wonderful profession.When the M.E. says a case is a homicide, it must be investigated as a homicide." While CSIs of today's have complaints about CSI, pathologist also had quibbles over Quincy - unlike the TV character, they didn't date stewardesses or live on a boat. Read more at the Chicago Tribune.

Dec 04 2003 - Gary Dourdan turns 37 on December 11th.

Dec 04 2003 - Some tidbits from the past....

• In October 2002, Variety reported that ... CBS' new lineup, led by surprising rookie CSI, delivered the net's best 25-54 rating on a Friday with series (6.5/18) since July 1993.
• On October 27th, Variety reported in regards to the California fires ... Mike Dilorenzo, prexy of Santa Clarita Studios, said his facility is operating at full capacity with CSI and Carnivale shooting. "We are on full alert due to the fires," he said. "I think everyone is really worried. We've got all our fire hoses hooked up and ready to go."
• Variety's wedding announcement for William Petersen: Gina Cirrone and William Petersen, June 14 [2003], Petrignano, Italy. Bride's non-pro; groom's an actor on the CBS drama CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, which he also exec produces.
• A Variety article (June 6, 2001) talks about Emmy hopefuls, and Bob Laurence of the San Diego Union Tribune was quoted as saying... From a seasoned vet to a novice, Laurence thinks a primetime newcomer also deserves a nod this year. "William Petersen is a compelling presence," he says. " CSI is an emotional journey into the minds of some very complex characters, and he pulls that off quite well."
• Anthony Zuiker was one of many writers who participated in the third "Words into Pictures" event on June 7-9, 2002 at the Hilton Universal City. "The industry conference, dubbed the largest collection of creative talent outside of awards season, is designed to focus on the writer's role in the filmmaking process."
• A March 15, 2000 Variety article on Anthony Zuiker being enlisted to write The Lords of Dogtown, mentions briefly in passing that ... Recently, the Zuiker-penned one-hour drama "Crime Scene Investigation," produced by Bruckheimer Films, was greenlit at CBS. William Petersen will produce and star.
• A Feb 9, 2000 Variety article says ho-humly ... The Bruckheimer project, meanwhile, is an hourlong drama called CSI."Anthony Zuiker will write and, along with Bruckheimer, serve as exec producer of the skein from Jerry Bruckheimer Films, Touchstone and CBS Prods. William Petersen (To Live and Die in L.A.) is attached to star. Show concerns a team of forensic crime scene investigators working in Las Vegas.
• Did you know...? In 1994, Marg Helgenberger filmed a pilot called Keys, about a woman who runs a helicopter business in the Flordia Keys. John Sacret Young produced for ABC Productions.
• Marg Helgenberger was one of many celebrities who, in January 2003, attended Hugh Hefner's post-Super Bowl annual Super Saturday Night Mexican-themed soiree. Others include Michael Chiklis, Tom Arnold, Tara Reid, etc.
• Variety reported that ... Marg Helgenberger and her husband Alan Rosenberg hosted a live auction (June 2003) of the snapshots from youngsters and celebs such as Cameron Diaz and Ben Stiller at the event. It benefitted the Huckleberry Fund and honored Susan Rabinovitz, associate director of the division of adolescent medicine at Children's Hospital Los Angeles.
• Gary Dourdan was present at the 20th Telegatti (Tele-Cats) Awards on May 15, 2003, which is one of Italy's biggest TV Awards show.
• Did you know ... ? Marg Helgenberger co-starred with CSI: Miami's David Caruso in the Showtime 1997 film The Gold Coast?

Dec 04 2003 - On November 25th, Variety reported that yet another Las Vegas-based show in the works. This time, CBS is developing Dr. Vegas, an hourlong drama about a "young, unconventional doctor who lives and works in an old-school, Palms-like hotel-casino." It will tell medical stories with a lighter touch and a "little bit of a quirky edge."

Dec 04 2003 - The Washington Post reported on December 3rd that ... A CSI rerun on CBS Wednesday at 10 p.m. virtually tied an original episode of NBC's Law & Order, driving it to its smallest audience since early '99. Has Law & Order finally met its match?

Dec 04 2003 - In a follow-up to the December 2nd article below on the Q score, a November 30th Variety article says a little more. "When the sample bestows a high Q Score on a series actor, the actor's ego may start ballooning to parade-float size," Marketing Evaluation VP Henry Schafer says. But most of these high Q Scores, he warns, reflect the character being played by the actor on the series -- so thesps should take the glory with a grain of salt. The classic example in the last decade of ego gone wild is David Caruso, who walked away from a starring role on NYPD Blue in its first season (1993-94), assuming he could swap his commanding Q Score for a lifetime pass to movie stardom. [Which as all know did not work out]... "Caruso was smart to take on a similar-type role to 'NYPD Blue. Coming back as a dentist or a doctor probably wouldn't have worked." Schafer also said of William Petersen and Marg Helgenberger on CSI: "The vehicle makes the star, not vice versa."

Dec 02 2003 - It's repeat season, so let's have some fun with the celebrity viewers of CSI. Or maybe not. Jessica Simpson, known to viewers of reality shows, said this classic gem on her show: On the aftermath of death: "Rigor who?" when her husband explained that a dead mouse he found was stiff with rigor mortis.

Dec 02 2003 - Just what is CSI's "Q score"? And what is a "Q score" and why can it make or break a TV show or performer? The Q score was devised in 1964 by Marketing Evaluations/TVQ Inc., a research firm in New York. A Q (qualitative) score quite simply calculates how well known and likable a person by surveying 1,800 people. If the score is above 19, you're all set, able to command salaries and perks. CBS has pushed the fact that CSI has higher Q scores than the longer-running NBC powerhouse drama, E.R. Q scores can help save a show when their ratings aren't the top of the heap. While NBC was doing better at one point in the ratings on Thursday night than CBS, the Q scores showed CSI near the top of the programs with high Q scores. While you see names like Tom Hanks and Martha Stewart in the news, Tom's Q is high and Martha's is practically non-existant. She's known, but not as likable.

Dec 02 2003 - The 30th annual People's Choice Awards will be broadcast live January 11th on CBS from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. CSI is listed under Favorite Television Dramatic Series. Fans can vote, beginning December 4th, at www.cbs.com for Favorite New Television Comedy Series and Favorite New Television Dramatic Series. Read the press release at TV Barn.

Dec 01 2003 - Robert David Hall was profiled by co-anchor Rene Syler on CBS's Early Show. Hall says of the creative staff and cast, "It's like the Pentagon, a super creative Pentagon. We have great chemistry in our cast, and our writers and producers are amazing. Everybody does their job really well." Many critics of the show complain about the graphic visuals, and even Hall admits his wife, Judy, isn't too fond of it. " She'll turn her head, but she'll still be there to watch it and, fortunately, there are many millions who want to be there for the -- it's not all gore. I think it's solving the mystery." Virtually all viewers of CSI realize that Robert David Hall has artificial legs. Hall spent eight months in a burn ward after a car crash burned over 65 percent of his body, and resulted in the amputation of both his legs below the knees. "I walk on two leg prosthesis. The wonderful thing about CSI is they didn't hire me because I'm disabled or in spite of it. I had to go through the process that any actor does and as a person with a disability, it's great to be employed, great to be doing what I love doing, which is acting, and it's great to be involved in such a success. So I feel like in a small way, I help represent the best of what people with disabilities can do." Hall is currently the national chairman for Screen Actors Guild Performance with Disability Committee. Of that duty, he says “I was proud to be a national board member for SAG last year and this year as the national chair for the Performance with Disabilities. As an actor, you get a chance to audition. It’s up to you to do a good job. But what we do is sort of a microcosm of people with disabilities. There are 54 million in America and 32 percent of physically and mentally disabled people work as opposed to 81 percent of the rest of the population. So there is a huge gap that we need to work on and I’m trying to do what I can with performers and perhaps inspire a little bit outside of our ranks.” Read the full story at CBS.

Nov 30 2003 - Marg Helgenberger is a ... sheep? In an article at GoMemphis.com, on fashion, it says "What do TV actresses Kim Cattrall, Marg Helgenberger, Sarah Jessica Parker and Jennifer Garner have in common? They all wore pink frocks to the Emmy Awards this fall. What sheep!" ... Okay, this isn't news, just mindless fashion chatter ;)

Nov 30 2003 - In an article tackling the unsolved 1933 murder of Canadian Johnny Cobb , Toronto Star says ... "Could we find the killer now? After all, criminology has made incredible strides since then. Cases where the trail was long cold are reopened and successfully solved. Programs such as Cold Case and C.S.I. highlight these new techniques, albeit with an emphasis on cleavage and darting flashlights." The article is interesting in how present-day police tackle a cold case.

Nov 30 2003 - Why is CSI so popular in Australia? One writer ponders that ... All crimes can be solved within two hours. Seeking to explain the success of the police dramas CSI, Law & Order: Criminal Intent and CSI Miami, Channel Ten's network program manager, Peter Andrews, said: "There are no barriers to entry. The viewer doesn't need to know the back story of the characters to follow the plot. You get the puzzle at the beginning, and by the end it's solved." Read more at Smh.com.au.

Nov 29 2003 - Bored? Take this What Biological Molecule Quiz for the fun of it.

Nov 28 2003 - Paul Guilfoyle was profiled in a brief Q&A in the November 30th American Profile magazine, which is inserted in newspapers this weekend. Question: There is an actor in the TV series CSI named Paul Guilfoyle. Is he related to an actor of the same name who used to appear in the movies in the late 1930s and early 1940s? Answer: "Paul Guilfoyle, who plays Lt. [sic] Brass on the hit show CSI, is the son of character actor Paul Guilfoyle. The senior Guilfoyle made more than 100 movies, usually playing gangsters, and passed away in 1961. Born in Boston, the younger Guilfoyle studied economics at Yale University before he followed his father's lead by studying at the prestigious Actors' Studio. He started out on Broadway, with roles in Glengarry Glen Ross, Richard III and The Basic Training of Pavlo Hummel, among others. His first film was the less-than-prestigious Howard the Duck, but he soon went on to establish himself as a fine character actor. He's appeared in more than 70 films, including Wall Street, Ransom, Amistad and L.A. Confidential. Guilfoyle lives in New York City with his wife, choreographer Lisa Giobbi, and their daughter, Snowden."

Nov 28 2003 - Zap2it.com reports CSI's repeat of "Fight Night" on Thanksgiving drew a 10.0/19 rating, with CBS winning overall for the evening.

Nov 28 2003 - Anybody watching CSI has probably heard someone on the series say "run it through IBIS." IBIS is the Integrated Ballistic Identification System, a "computer program that scans markings on crime scene bullets and digitally compares them to similar markings on bullets or weapons related to other cases." The database operates mucxh like those for DNA or fingerprints, and police can search for matches or weapons within a specifified region. IBIS is overseen by the ATF bureau, but operated by local police and prosecutor's office. Read more at the Sacramento Bee.

Nov 27 2003 - For anybody who watched the History Channel's Dead Reckoning episode last night - "Buttons and Bugs" - you will have seen the basis for the CSI episode "Bully for You". Half of the episode was devoted to the case of an elderly woman whose liquified body was found in a garbage can in a storage locker. Using entomological techniques, they were able to pinpoint the time of death, hence destroying the daughter's alibi.

Nov 27 2003 - Want to place a commercial on CSI? Surprisingly, it's not as expensive as booking a 30 second ad on NBC's Friends. In the article Diary of a Nielsen Diarist, they write "For example, CBS's CSI is the No. 1-rated show, but it doesn't have the most expensive ad real estate. That distinction goes to a 30-second spot on Friends, which will set you back $473,500, thanks to the show's affluent 18- to 49-year-old viewers. CSI ad time is a relative bargain at $310,324 because its demographic is a little older, and advertisers believe young people are more likely to buy things. In comparison, a 30-second ad to run during UPN's now-canceled, little-watched and thoroughly dreadful The Mullets was going for $22,775 before the show's demise. "

Nov 27 2003 - The Vancouver Province has a few more tidbits on the potential third CSI series. Les Moonves said "We've had a few meetings with the producers.We don't want to spread them too thin; they're so actively involved. CSI: Miami is creatively up leaps and bounds this year, so we want to be very careful that we have the right people to do it."

Nov 26 2003 - The Dailyceleb.com has several photos of Jorja Fox from the Human Rights Watch Annual Celebration Dinner on November 18th. Eric Szmanda also attended and there are a few shots of them arm-in-arm.

Nov 25 2003 - Is it... or isn't it? MediaLife says this of a third CSI: Les Moonves said ... that the new “CSI” spinoff, expected next fall, will be set in one of four cities, possibly including New York. Meanwhile, in today's New York Daily News, an article says Are you ready for CSI:NYC? It could happen if CBS decides to set the next spinoff of its hit crime drama in New York. Les Moonves "strongly hinted" that NYC is one of four cities under consideration for a third CSI program. However, those looking to act in the show may well want to be on the West Coast, as the bulk of filming for both CSI (Las Vegas) and CSI: Miami takes place in California.

Nov 25 2003 - TV Guide reports that thanks to its Thursday night lineup - Survivor, CSI and Without a Trace, it looks like the eye network will finish the November sweeps in the #1 slot. Also helping are three strong new shows, Two and a Half Men, Cold Case and Joan of Arcadia. UPDATE: CBS News just reported "Not only has CBS dominated its closest rival, NBC, by more than 3 million viewers a night on average, it improved over last year while ABC, NBC and Fox all slipped."

Nov 25 2003 - Robert David Hall, whom viewers known as medical examiner Dr. Robbins, will appear on CBS's The Early Show on December 1st. Set your VCRs!

Nov 24 2003 - Save your dollars for March 2004 when the third season of CSI will be released on DVD. Look for more special features in this collection. (Thanks to CBS for the tip)

Nov 24 2003 - William Petersen is featured on the cover, and in a three-page article, in the Winter issue of Men's Health magazine. UPDATE: If you're unable to find this magazine on your newsstands, you can find a screen cap of the cover and some of its photos at WPAP on its news page. Some details from the article:

• When he was 22, he was living in a trailer park with his wife and one-year-old daughter in Evanston, Illinois, before returning to Chicago.
• Gary Sinise first read for the lead in To Live and Die in L.A., and when he didn't get the part, told the director that "You should go find Billy Petersen."
• He's not interested, nor has he been interested, in a movie career. He loves theater.
• One reason he knew CSI would be 'hot' is that ...people sat there for 2 years and watched O.J. Simpson get off after murdering two people in cold blood, and people couldn't understand it. So I knew there was this audience hungering for an explanation, the science, a language with which they could understand the story, and that's what CSI provided right off the bat.
• His reaction to news of CSI: Miami? Les Moonves and Jerry Bruckheimer knew they couldn't have me in the meeting. They knew they couldn't tell me about it because they knew I'd be furious. Their argument was, everybody else is going to start copying the show, so why not us? My attitude was, Well, then let everybody else do it. Don't rip yourself off. And now there have been three or four a year.
• And his future on CSI? William says "My goal is not to have to do this forever. I would like to get back to that theater community in Chicago because this TV thing, man, it burns you out. If you do 120 episodes of something, that's like play Hannibal Lecter 15 times. ... It's a question of how much life you want to have besides your work. I just got married again in June. My daughter's having a baby. I'm going to be a grandfather! My parents are in their 90s. However life impacts me will affect how I make my decisions about staying on the show. But as I've said before, I'm learning to get away from the selfish – something everyone should try."

Nov 24 2003 - Jeffrey D. Sams, who played Detective Lockwood on CSI until his character's unfortunate demise, will soon re-appear as Agent Todd Stevens in the new ABC series Line of Fire.

Nov 24 2003 - William Petersen is profiled online at the TV Guide site, in which author Mark Remy talks with William about '80s nostalgia. You'll learn that he was lousy at science, and thinks that CSI is helping making science cool for kids... that's he's not "itching" to do anything, as it jump back to movies... and always sees his named misspelled as Peterson. "See, we're Danish. Anytime you see an "s-e-n," you'll know it's Danish. And when you see an "s-o-n," it's Swedish." Read the full article at TVGuide. This same article was also in the November 29th TV Guide.

Nov 24 2003 - In an article on CBS's current success in the New York Times, CBS Prez Les Moonves said "I think you can look for a third CSI on the horizon," [The article then added] Mr. Moonves said, all but confirming that his powerhouse police franchise will add an additional three weekly edition next fall.

Nov 24 2003 - Alliance Atlantis Communications reported a loss of $12.2-million or 29 cents a share, compared with a loss of $6.7-million or 16 cents a year ago. The article went on to report: Revenue in its entertainment group fell to $46.6-million from $80.7-million a year ago, mostly as a result of the timing of deliveries of movies and mini-series. Its top-rated CSI series accounted for 35 per cent of its revenue in the second quarter. "The CSI franchise continues to power our Entertainment Group, with new seasons of each of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and CSI: Miami recording outstanding ratings on CBS," Mr. MacMillan said. "Next fall (2004), CSI: Crime Scene Investigation will begin airing in weekend syndication on television stations in the U.S. running parallel to its Monday to Friday cable window on Spike TV." Read more at the Globe & Mail.

Nov 23 2003 - Philly.com has a review of Paul Guilfoyle's Coyote Waits, currently airing on Sunday nights on PBS.

Nov 23 2003 - DVDanswers.com has an interesting segment on William Petersen's Manhunter movie.

Nov 23 2003 - Both William Petersen and Marg Helgenberger were featured on the cover of today's Parade Magazine (at right) for a cover story on "Investigating Today's Coolest Electronics." Inside, Marg divulged her favorite gadget: "My favorite gadget is my plasma TV, because football games are even more fun to watch in high-definition."

Nov 22 2003 - Dr. Gary Telgenhoff, a medical examiner in Las Vegas who consults on CSI, will be on the November 26th History Channel series Dead Reckoning. The episode is "Buttons and Bugs." [n a series that digs into forensic history by making technology the star, we see how scientific crime techniques solved difficult cases. Pop-ups and graphics integrated into the storyline offer historical information and perspective about the technique being explored. In this episode, we how a small button and a missing Polaroid camera helped solve the murder of 74-year-old Maria Diagonale, and how a forensic entomologist helped determine that Brookey Lee West murdered her mother. TV 14 ]For more on Dr. Telgenhoff, visit the Dr. Gary Telgenhoff interview.

Nov 22 2003 - WPAP reports that ...fans of CSI and Without a Trace can look forward to a crossover episode sometime this year - probably during sweeps! No verification yet of this news.

Nov 22 2003 - Remember the poor model in The Hunger Artist who ended up in the shopping cart? Although many U.S. folk may not have recognized Tricia Helfer in that role, she's a supermodel in Alberta (Canada), and now has a role in the new SciFi Channel miniseries remake of Battlestar Galactica. In this reworking of the original ABC series, Tricia plays the new character Number Six, who is a humanoid Cylon. The miniseries is also 'backdoored' as a pilot, and if the ratings do well, Helfer will return as Number Six for a TV series. Read the full story at EdmontonJournal as long as it stays online.

Nov 22 2003 - The episode Jackpot was filmed in Big Bear Valley... specifically, the town of Fawnskin. The CSI film crew moved in during September as Fawnskin was turned into the fictional town of Jackpot, Nevada. The local Fire Department property became the sheriff's office and gas station, that was "so real an area resident tried to fill his vehicle's tank while the set was being used." And despite oddities and inconveniences, the town came away with a estimated $150,000 that the studio spent while there. (Source: BigBearGrizzly.net) (Thanks to WPAP for the tip)

Nov 20 2003 - USA Today had a glowing review of "After the Show"... TV's top-rated show, CSI, offers a terrific change-of-pace episode as Catherine struggles to prove that a photographer killed a missing showgirl. The emphasis in this outstanding hour is on the people rather than on gore or gimmicks. We're made to feel for the victim more than we usually do. And we're reminded that the investigators are talented, ambitious people with their own career goals, not just selfless team players.

Nov 20 2003 - Tonight's CSI episode ("After the Show") was profiled on Extra! The story is based on the actual rape and murder of model Linda Sobek, who was murdered by a photographer in 1995. A case that Elizabeth Devine had worked on. Marg Helgenberger was asked if she had nightmares about the CSI plots... "Once in a while, but I try to leave it at the door." Marg actually hangs out with Elizabeth, and the pair helped out at her son's school and taught three of the science classes that had to do with Santa Monica. Is there any romance in store for Catherine? Not yet! Meanwhile, visit ExtraTV.com to win a CSI DVD set.

Nov 20 2003 - In an article on how Australian content on Australian TV screens is in danger of being diluted by American imports, CSI is mentioned. Richard Harris from the Australian Screen Directors Association said: "...It's simply to do with the economics of the television business and the way the business works is that there's a kind of dumping that goes on with the American programs into Australia's market. They can make a program like a CSI for millions and millions of dollars, but they can sell it into the Australian market somewhere between $40,000 and $80,000." Full story at ABC.net.au.

Nov 20 2003 - Richmond, Indiana man Carvin Rinehart's work will be seen by millions of people. A piece of his artwork is expected to be seen on tonight's CSI. (Source: Pal-Item.com)

Nov 20 2003 - CSI fan Charlene Huberthal got to realize her dream and dies for CSI. Charlene was one of thousands who wrote into CBS's Early Show's Week of Wishes. She said " I am a huge fan of several investigative shows on CBS, such as 'JAG,' 'CSI,' and 'Without a Trace.' My wish is to be part of one of those shows, to be an extra or a dead body. I know that sounds kind of morbid. I've always been interested in what was involved in filming shows like this and would give anything for the opportunity to find out firsthand." Huberthal, a firefighter in Mount Pleasant. S.C., and single mother to 10-year-old Jessica, was thrilled to be on CSI. It wasn't until she actually showed up on the set that special effects makeup designer John Goodwin informed that she would become a dead body. Once made up as a corpse, she spent 15 minutes lying on a mogue slab, eyes shut and holding her breath. "I'm not the main body, just an extra," she explained. And what do dead bodies wear underneath the sheets? She was allowed to wear a flesh-colored bra and sweatpants. Afterwards, she was given a tour (some of it by Jorja Fox) of the DNA lab, ballistics room, and talked with several of the series cast. Robert David Hall told her "I'm alive because I was very badly burned 25 years ago and firefighters scraped me off the highway and got me to a hospital, so when I read what you did, I just wanted you to know I'm very appreciative of your profession." Lucky Hubenthal got a hug from star William Petersen. "I gotta get a hug," she told him. "You're even sexier in person than you are on TV!" Harry Smith interviewed her briefly on CBS Early Show, and both she and Jessica received gifts of CSI goodies (T-shirts, DVDs and more). Charlene's episode will air December 18th. Read more at CBS Early Show or TV Guide. Or at Charleston.net.

Nov 19 2003 - Gary Dourdan was in Alien Resurrection, and now the entire Aliens triology will be out on a special 9-Disk set. Read the full article at DVDTalk.

Nov 19 2003 - Krista Allen (Kristy Hopkins in the CSI episodes Pilot, I-15 Murders, and Boom) will star along with Ed Asner and Rex Smith in the world premiere of Dan Israely's Orgasms at the Beverly Hills' Canon Theatre, Nov. 28-Jan. 11, 2004. This comedy will open officially December 3rd. The play "explores the mistakes made by God during the creation of man and woman." For tickets at The Canon Theatre, 205 North Canon Drive in Beverly Hills, CA, call (310) 859-2830. For more info, visit www.orgasmstheplay.com. (Source: Playbill)

Nov 19 2003 - CSI's success may spawn a third series. Alliance Atlantis Communications said it should receive C$625 million in cash from CSI and "may spin out a third series from the popular franchise." Alliance Atlantis is in talks about a third series with CBS. Peter Sussman, head of Alliance's production division said "We and CBS want to do a third CSI. The market is telling us that we should do a third CSI. And the only criteria for us are when to do it and how to do it right. We want to do it right for the benefit of the two existing series." Alliance expects the two current CSI shows to generate revenue of C$1 billion between fiscal 2004 and 2008. "We're presuming that each will run for eight years. So we're in year four for the original CSI, and we're in year two with Miami. Now we're hoping they run much longer than that, but for this purpose, we're talking about eight years," Alliance chief executive Michael MacMillan told Reuters. (Source: CBS Marketwatch) You can read the full article also at Rueters.

Nov 18 2003 - Although next week's episode of CSI will be a repeat, you'll get some new CSI on the cover of Parade Magazine. Both William Petersen and Marg Helgenberger will grace the cover of hte November 23rd issue. This magazine is distributed in Saturday or Sunday papers nationwide. Check yours this weekend! You can visit Parade and find out which paper carries it by simply putting in your ZIP code. (Thanks to 'natster' for the tip)

Nov 18 2003 - Megan Mullally, known for her work on as Karen Walker on NBC's Will & Grace, got her start in Chicago theaters, and has a CSI connection. Megan was previewed in a special to the Chicago Tribune. She reminisced about good times with actors such as John Mahoney (Fraiser), Kevin Anderson, Gary Sinese and John Malkovich. She also mentioned William Petersen, who is called Billy Petersen by friends and probably everyone in Chicago. She talked of when they hung together in bars. ... When talk at the bar turned to the subject of career aspirations, "everyone was anti-TV and anti-movies," Mullally remembers. "I mean, that's pretty funny. I laugh about Billy Peterson." Peterson, co-founder of another defunct Chicago troupe, Remains Theatre Ensemble, is now a full-fledged TV star thanks to his role on the CBS crime drama, "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation." (Thanks to 'E' for the tip)

Nov 18 2003 - USA Today noticed, as have many TV viewers, that both CSI and Law & Order "make up half of this week's prime time real estate." If a show is yanked for poor ratings or something else on CBS, CSI invariably fills the slot. But will this practice result in over-exposure, thus diminishing returns in the long run? CBS scheduling chief Kelly Kahl jokingly calls CSI "our break-glass-in-case-of-emergency show." Network executives say they don't think they're overexposing the prime-time gems. This article also adds at the end...there's talk at CBS of another version of CSI, maybe New York

Nov 17 2003 - CSI is the #4 drama -- in a list compiled by TV critic Tim Goodman. Coming in first are The Wire, The Sopranos, and The Shield. CSI is #4, and it reads ... "The top three dramas here are playing in a different league with different rules. To make a truly great, compelling adult drama on network television is uncommonly difficult. Advertiser concerns, content regulations, Nielsen expectations and a more competitive landscape are hurdles to brilliance. There's a reason this is the most watched drama on network television." The remaining shows are Six Feet Under, Nip/Tuck, and Without a Trace. Read the full article at Sfgate.com for more details.

Nov 17 2003 - CSI Producer/writer Ann Donahue was interviewed in a 30 minute talk with New York Times film critic Elvis Mitchell on the radio show, The Treatment. Go to KCRW Radio and look for her November 12th talk, which is online. Requires Media Player to hear. While the discussion is mostly about CSI: Miami, you can also hear about CSI, and how the shows are written. It should also be archived at PublicRadio.com. Definitely worth a listen for any CSI fan.

Nov 17 2003 - In an article on soccer, The Salt Lake Tribune said ... "Idaho State might be a program on the rise, but one of the coolest things about the school is one of its alumni is actor William Petersen, who plays Gil Grissom on the show CSI. The guy can solve a 30-year-old murder with a cat hair as the only evidence."

Nov 17 2003 - CSI probably did better than the Reagans would have on Sunday night, bringing in an average of 9.1 rating/14 share for the evening. The 9 p.m. CSI came in at 8.4/12 (beaten slightly by ABC's 9.1/13 American Music Awards), and at 10 p.m., CSI took down 9/7/16. (Source: Zap2it.com)

Nov 16 2003 - According to TV Tome and TrekWeb, actress Kellie Waymire, who portrayed Carla Dantini in the CSI episode Justice is Served and And Then There Were None, died suddenly on November 14th of unknown causes at the age of 35. No more details or verification is available at the moment. Kellie was recently seen on Fox's The Pitts. UPDATE: She reportedly died of an aneurysm.

Nov 16 2003 - Literally thousands of acres burned up in the recent California fires. The San Bernardino National Forest has been used for productions such as The FBI, Paint Your Wagon, and Terminator 2. However, Inland Southern California may benefit when camera crews head their way. Fortunately, Big Bear was minimally impacted by the fires. Big Bear was used for films such as the new Mr. Deeds, Al Pacino's The Insider, and most recently, it doubled for Jackpot, Nevada in the CSI episode "Jackpot." (Source: PE.com

Nov 16 2003 - Check out a new forensic site - the forensic science portal - Forensics.ca. You can easily get lost for hours in this site, as the links and information is very extensive. You can also check out The Forensic Community for a completely different point of view on solving crimes - video.

Nov 15 2003 - Why is CSI so successful? For a show in which its characters explain a lot, it defies the tradition that exposition should be avoided at all costs as audiences get bored, then change the channel. Yet CSI thrives on Grissom (and his crew) explaining the tools of the trade. CSI started out slowly on Friday nights, but it's switch against NBC's "must see TV" schedule on Thursday shot it up to the #1 show it is today. Producer/writer Carol Mendelsohn says "On 'CSI,' we really got the proverbial lightning in a bottle." Fans love it for the science, the actors, and the characters. Also helping is the current state of anxiety amongst many people in a post 9/11 society. Read the fascinating full story by Noel Holston at New York Newsday.

Nov 14 2003 - In a brief article, CSI is called the "pioneer of corpse TV" - TV series that show grisly images of dead bodies and/or parts of bodies. The article also points toward the Dragnet remake, the HBO Autopsy shows, and the plastic surgery soap drama Nip/Tuck. "Having desensitized its viewers to violence, TV is now desensitizing its viewers to death," concludes the article. (Source: )

Nov 13 2003 - Last week ... CSI came in #1 at 29.6 million viewers, easily grabbing the coveted 18-to-49 demographic for the first time during the November sweeps for CBS since 1987. CSI was the week's most popular program, and averaged 15.7 milion viewers (10.0 rating, 16 share). (Source: JSonline) (Thanks to Martha for the tip)

Nov 12 2003 - An article in the Edmonton Journal (Canada) talks about viewers fascination with forensic TV shows. F2: Forensic Factor, is a six-part series airing on Canada's Discovery Channel. An Edmonton constable believes that forensic shows just appeal to human natures, as people like to solve problems. "Working with crime scene evidence is like trying to put together a jigsaw puzzle without the picture on the box to guide you," says Constable Joe Slemko, a force veteran of 18 years who also works as a private consultant and teaches forensics for Grant MacEwan's policing program. But as for watching shows like CSI? "I find them frustrating to watch. I have no interest. If I wanted that kind of drama, I'd go to work," says Slemko. "I'd rather watch a comedy."

Nov 12 2003 - Marg Helgenberger turns 45 on November 16th.

Nov 12 2003 - Marg Helgenberger was on ABC's The View for a few minutes, and no spoilers or real tidbits from CSI, more like a gossip chat! They showed the hilarious clip of Catherine talking to Grissom about 'furries' and sex from "Fur and Loathing" before introducing Marg. She called the furry subculture 'bizarre' but said they used real 'furries' as extras. She called them shy and reclusive people and it's a way for them to express themselves. Could she pass herself off as a real forensics expert? "I'd have to say no," replied Marg. However, she knows a lot more than she did before she started the show. Marg mentioned the 'bloated floater' they had in one recent episode, in regards to disgusting plot lines, but thought it was a 'brilliant' prosthetic piece that they used for the corpse. They talked about her hair color, and how Marg went brunette for the Jon Benet Ramsey movie she made, and found herself being called 'ma'am' a lot. But she's a natural redhead. Her son Hughie turned 13 so they had a party for him, and all the family came and it was easy to identify who was from which family due to hair color. **** She also appeared on the Conan O'Brien show. Conan talked about the sexy redheads on TV - Conan, David Caruso, and Conan. He also mentioned 'Ralph Mouth' from Happy Days. Usually she's not attracted, in a romantic ways, to fellow redheads. Conan loves the forensic stuff on CSI. He wonders if they use the cutting-edge equipment, and Marg agreed. Last year she used the ALS machine a lot, and made some amusing remark that got bleeped. Conan finds the show too realistic to eat dinner and watch the show, whereas Friends is easier to eat by. ;) After Marg witnessed a real autopsy, she found she couldn't eat for the rest of the day. "Sensory overload in every way," as one body was a 'decomp' (decomposing). Both of them enjoy watching the HBO Autopsy show. And that was about it. CSI was mentioned as being on CBS.

Nov 11 2003 - Christopher Wiehl, who played Sara's boyfriend Hank Peddigrew in a few episodes, is mentioned in an article at Florida Today in regards to his role as a football player on the ESPN series Playmakers.

Nov 11 2003 - Metlife will be airing their new "have you met life today?(R)" ads on CSI, as well as other popular shows, in the weeks leadnig up to the Thanksgiving holiday.

Nov 10 2003 - The Canadian TV Guide said in an article on celebrities who are doing makeovers... William Petersen: "Looking for somewhere to hide the evidence of his developing double chin, Petersen uncovered this convenient goatee. Paired with glasses and a tan, he hopes it will escape detection. The perp might just get away with it." (Thanks to SB for the tip)

Nov 10 2003 - Variety reports that CBS posted its best results since last November and drew the largest audience for any telecast this season (29.65 million viewers). CNN also reports the same, citing that CSI is the most watched program this season.

Nov 10 2003 - In a 10 Questions with Les Moonves, he says " There is no question that we are talking about a third CSI. The show just keeps getting bigger and bigger. We don't want to spread ourselves too thin. But we are definitely going to have another one before too long."

Nov 07 2003 - CBS is filling the space left empty by The Reagans' miniseries with repeats of our favorite show. November 16 will show a repeat of a CSI two-part episode. November 18th will have repeats of CSI: Miami and Without a Trace.

Nov 06 2003 - The Lied Discovery Children's Museum's 21st annual fund-raising gala was held October 24th at The Mirage in Las Vegas. More than 500 guests attended, and the article said ... "The museum is particularly indebted to Anthony Zuiker and his wife Jennifer, both of whom secured fabulous gifts for this year's auction and directly contributed to the gala." Read more at the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Nov 06 2003 - Did you know... ? Judith Scott, who played medical examiner Dr. Jenna Williams in season one of CSI, stars in UPN's Jake 2.0.

Nov 06 2003 - Some humorous descriptions of tonight's episode, Jackpot - "The head man heads for Nevada to check out a fellow whose noggin is missing." (The Courier-Journal) "Because he's a hard worker, Grissom gets a head on the job this week." (Chicago Sun-Times)

Nov 06 2003 - In an article on why CBS will not air the Reagan miniseries on November 16th (not worth mentioning here), CSI, however, was mentioned briefly ... "He (Leslie Moonves) mentioned a cannibalism scene in C.S.I. that was cut after a sponsor objected. But he said sponsors had nothing to do with the miniseries decision. Read the full article at Stamford Advocate.

Nov 06 2003 - Both Jorja Fox and Robert David Hall were at the Los Angeles Race for the Cure on November 2nd. (Thanks to the CSISociety Yahoo Group for the tip)

Nov 05 2003 - CSI was the week's (Oct 30th) most-watched show, with 27.3 million viewers. A UPN rebroadcast of the 1998 movie Blade was the week's least-watched show, with 1.9 million viewers. (Source: EOnline)

Nov 05 2003 - Variety reports ... "How will CBS fill the four-hour hole left by the disappearance of The Reagans? No word yet, but it seems likely the net will air a theatrical pic on Nov. 16 and repeats of a top-rated skein such as "CSI" on Nov. 18. A decision is expected by today or Thursday."

Nov 04 2003 - Newsflash! Be the first on your block to own a CSI mousepad! Well, not quite yet. They'll be out for Christmas, and available on the official CSI website. Details will be up on the Merchandise page when available. (thanks to CBS for the tip)

Nov 04 2003 - Most fans know that Robert David Hall is a real-life double-amputee, the result of a car accident in which an 18-wheeler crushed the vehicle that he was driving. Hall truly enjoys playing Dr. Robbins."I told them (the producers) right from the get-go. 'I'm not going to play your ghoulish guy.' I want to be a guy who has respect for and sees death as part of life, and that's what they were looking for." That is a long way from the old days in television when a disabled person was portrayed as someone with a problem whom the hero helped out. "Within our group, we refer to them as 'bitter cripple roles,'" says Hall. "Dr. Robbins is so damn much fun. I get to play with the fake hearts and I get to say 15-syllable medical words. I always wondered what those three years of Latin in high school were going to be about. ... it's saying it like I know what I'm talking about." Read the full article at Yahoo for 7 days. Or at the Miami Herald or CNN.

Nov 03 2003 - "CSI sweeps opener wasn't totally warm and fuzzy," said the Seattle Times. "The networks are down in a pile. But there won't be any scritching." CSI's "Fur and Loathing" came in #1 (17.1/26)in the first week in the November sweeps weeks, in which networks vy with each other for the highest ratings - and subsequently, highest adverterising dollars. Read more at the SeattleTimes

Nov 03 2003 - Jeffrey Combs, known to many TV viewers for his role as a mad scientist in the horror-/sci-fi Re-animator movies, will show up as Dr. Dale Sterling, the town vet/coroner in the upcoming episode Jackpot. (Source: Trek Today)

Nov 02 2003 - The new broadcast network gimmick of running repeats all the time is hitting the networks where it counts - the pocketbook. Cable and internet lure away viewers, and if a show isn't successful on the first time out, it's cancelled before it can drain more money from the networks. CSI was mentioned in the article. Repeats of CSI and Without a Trace do high numbers in repeats, and thus far are profitable. CBS aired more repeats than any other network this past summer, with 52% of its summer schedule consisting of repeated scripted series. However, executives agreed that sitcoms do better than dramas, and close-end dramas, such as CSI and Law & Order, do better in repeats than serialized shows such as ER or Alias. Read the full article at TV Week.

Nov 01 2003 - Although it's hard to tell how many fans went out trick-or-treating on Halloween as forensic experts, but CSI was represented in one's artistically drawn pumpkin (at right). (Thanks to Leanna for the image)

Nov 01 2003 - CSI fans all remember the 'body farm' shown in the CSI episode "Burden of Proof," and you can read about the real Tennessee Body Farm in a recent article. And what night critters like to munch on the corpses the most? Dogs and coyotes are banned from the 'farm,' so it's the raccoon that has the midnight snack. "They go at it," says Dr. Klippel, a professor. Anthopologist William Bass established the farm in 1982, is currently on tour to promote Death's Acre, a book about his real-life adventures behind the Body Farm. You can read more at DallasNews.com. Free registration is required.

Nov 01 2003 - It's not just William Petersen and the excellent writing that attracts viewers to the show. According to the Washington Post, it's also the "How'd they do that?" factor. The show has more high-tech toys than Star Trek, but in this case, all the equipment is real. "The idea is not to make this science fiction," says consulting producer Elizabeth Devine. "We want to show what really happens, and how cool it is." But this equipment isn't something you can pick up at your local department store... a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer costs about $100,000. The producers acknowledge that liberties are taken, for the sake of drama, with techniques and timeframes. Fingerprints may get run through AFIS on the series, but in reality a fingerprint analyst must still make the final comparison. Read more at the Washington Post.

Oct 31 2003 - Although it would be cheaper to do the special in Los Angeles, Les Moonves insisted that the CBS 75th Anniversary special be held in New York City at the Hammerstein Ballrom because William Paley established the network in 1928 in that city. (Source: New York Daily News) If you can, take a look at Entertainment Tonight on Monday, November 3rd as they will cover the event. William Petersen is one of 150 stars being flown out to New York City in three specially chartered planes.

Oct 31 2003 - Mediaweek.com reports that... Although it wasn't that long ago when NBC always won the first night of any sweeps period, CBS's combination of Survivor: Pearl Islands (#2: 12.3/18), CSI (#1 for the evening: 19.8/29) and Without A Trace (#2: 12.9/20) bested NBC's super-sized fueled line-up by eight percent.

Oct 30 2003 - You heard it here first ... CBS has rescheduled "Invisible Evidence" to air on November 13th, shifting the rest of the schedule. (thanks to CBS for the tip)

Oct 30 2003 - Exclusive news! Look for a re-release of the season one DVD set with a director's cut of the pilot episode, which will include deleted scenes, in May 2004. In March 2004, the second Ubisoft CSI game will come out. A CSI: Miami soundtrack is in the works. Don't forget to check the Merchandise page for more updates. CBS has added more great stuff to their site.

Oct 30 2003 - "A corpse is a corpse, of course, of course," began the Newsday article at this site. They're looking for fans to tell them why they enjoy the show. Or go straight to their form while it's still up!

Oct 28 2003 - Santa Clarita - and the CSI sets - are still safe from the fires, so far, but the smoke from the massive California fires has reached all the way to Las Vegas. A spokesperson for CSI, however, said that smoke from the fires was visible. Also, reported that "But Mike Dilorenzo, head of Santa Clarita Studios, where "CSI" and "Carnivale" are shooting, said the studio is on "full alert." "I think everyone is really worried," said Dilorenzo. "We've got all our fire hoses hooked up and ready to go."

Oct 29 2003 - Looking for an Xmas gift for your budding young criminologist? Or something for yourself? ;) Check out Discovery Channel's Discovery Whodunit? Forensics Lab, which is a pretty advanced little kit. (thanks to Jadebell for the tip)

Oct 28 2003 - Thus far, CSI is unaffected by the massive California fires, says the BBC and Washington Post, who reports today that "Production continued without interruption on HBO's "Carnivale" and CBS' "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" at the Santa Clarita Studios, according to a studio representative. The Santa Clarita soundstages were located just two miles away from one of the flanks of the Simi Valley fire, and a CBS representative said some production personnel might be sent home early if the situation worsened."

Oct 28 2003 - More information on the filming of Gary Dourdan's movie, Black August, whose produces have encountered difficulty in filming.

Oct 28 2003 - It's official. CBS has knocked NBC off it's "must see" pedastal on Thursday night and topped the 18-49 demographics. CSI's season highs, 10.1/24 in 18-49, 27.58 million viewers overall, overpowered NBC's lineup as well as the World Series game. (Source: Variety)

Oct 25 2003 - William Petersen appeared on The Charlie Rose Show on October 24th. Go here for a complete transcript of this informative interview.

Oct 24 2003 - The October 25-31 U.S. TV Guide has a half page ad for the new episode "Fur and Loathing." (at right). Go to the Episodes page for more information. You can find out what furries think of this episode at this furry forum. Or check out articles/journals at CrushYiffyDestroy, or SOCAL, or CSI Guide forum. Please note these links may contain spoilers, so you're warned!

Oct 24 2003 - CSI had a 9.9/24 in adults 18-49, and was the winner in that ratings demo for Thursday night's episode, "Feeling the Heat." The episode drew in 27 million total viewers (up 125 over NBC).

Oct 24 2003 - There are two interesting articles on real-life forensics. The first - "Fresno State students get inside view of crime work at Justice Dept. laboratory" - about how some students use the state Department of Justice Bureau of Forensic Services' regional laboratory, is available at the Fresno Bee. The second, entitled "Forensic anthropology not nearly as exciting as its portrayal on TV", can be found at the Edmonton Journal. One professor of anthrolopology says "The techniques they use on CSI are just too elaborate," and that ""Every case they investigate would cost over $100,000. Nobody has that kind of budget."

Oct 24 2003 - Looking for bugs? Check out the Science Museum of Minnesota, who opens the world premiere of a new exhibit. "CSI: Crime Scene Insects," explores the rapidly growing field of forensic entomology, and how insects can crack cases and bring killers to justice. Curator Lee Goff is a consultant for both this exhibit and for the TV show CSI. His business card amusingly states "Know maggots, will travel," and depicts a little worm staring through a detective's magnifying glass. (From KARE 11) Visitors can paly detective in a simulated crime scene that is part of the museum's exhibit. The exhibit will show what a crime scene looks like, but will not be "R-rated," says Gail Vold Greco, a Science Museum spokeswoman. "The exhibit gets past the gross factor to the next level on how bugs are being used as a tool. We hope visitors will gain an appreciation for the science behind it." The exhibit runs from October 24, 2003 - January 19, 2004. Located at the Science Museum of Minnesota, 120 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, Minnesota. Tickets are $8 adults, $6 ages 4 to 12 and 65 and older. Call 651-221-9444. (Source: )

Oct 24 2003 - Marg Helgenberger was one of several celebrities, including Calista Flockhart, who came out for a good cause at the LA Commission on Assaults against Women. Flockhart says, "Their goal is to eradicate domestic violence." (Source: Extra!)

Oct 23 2003 - Check out the latest issue of GQ - on newsstands today - for a one-page article on William Petersen winning the GQ Man of the Year 2003 Award for TV actor. "I get to solve a different puzzle and I get to play with a character who is sort of wrapped in enigma. He's a work in progress, and he's very different from me," said Petersen in the article.

Oct 23 2003 - Viacom's third-quarter net profit rose, boosted by stronger advertising sales from MTV and CBS Television, whose hit shows like CSI help counter weaker local advertising spending.

Oct 23 2003 - Gary Dourdan was featured on page 50 of the October 28th The Star (tabloid magazine) about dating Lisa Snowdon, George Clooney's ex-girlfriend. There wasn't much news past that information, but the photo was nice. Lisa Snowdon is a familiar face to British viewers. She has hosted numerous music shows in the UK.

Oct 23 2003 - Did you see Marg Helgenberger on the Oprah show? If not, read the brief synopsis of it below...

Behind the scenes of CSI. “Millions are hooked,” leads the hour-long Oprah show that covers both CSI and real-life mysteries. The show began with many clips from the show, including some of the gorier shots, such as “liquid man.”
          Marg Helgenberger came out to help introduce CSI. As usual, she looked pretty stunning in a burgundy top and form-fitting tan slacks. She felt that the reason the show had so many viewers was that the show was about solving mysteries. She told about going out with real life investigator Yolanda McCreary. Dead Body at the Hard Rock (Café) was the first case. She tracked the case, and witnessed an autopsy. Since they were going into the third season, Marg thought she should do so.
          Marg did a back stage four of Stage 7. Typical back stage stuff that surrounds the ultra high-tech sets and equipment. They went to the morgue – “our most popular set when visitors arrive.” She pulled open one and there was Elizabeth Devine, former real-life CSI and now producer, crouched behind. The doors lead to the backstage area! Marg does get occasionally grossed out, and visited the two Emmy-winning make-up artists, Jackie and John, who were busy making a corpse for the show. It can take up to five hours getting made up, and it can take days to make a corpse. Meanwhile, William Petersen gave the camera crew a tour of his office – my “creepy bungalow” – he said. He held up a jar, pointing out it contained cicadas (giant grasshoppers). “Sometimes I've been known to put chocolate on them and eat them.” Another jar looked like olives, but they were eyeballs – fake ones, presumably.
          Now it's back to Marg on location for a night shoot. “I'm going to give you a little blow-by-blow of what we're doing.” It starts at 8:00 p.m., interrupts at 1:15 a.m., but doesn't conclude until 3:10 a.m. In the meantime, George Eads grins and jokes around for the camera, and as Marg signs off at 3:10 a.m., Jorja Fox says “Goodnight, Oprah,” while Paul Guilfoyle looks on.


The show then covered the real-life death of model Linda Sobek, who went off to a modeling assignment and never returned. Charles Rathman, a freelance photographer, had met her the day she vanished and said they parted. However, her photos were found in the trash. It turns out that he had accidentally struck Linda with a car and killed her. He buried her. He eventually led to the grave, where evidence led to his conviction for her murder. Elizabeth Devine worked on this case, and discussed it, as well as the horrors of the job.
          The high-tech gadgets used on CSI were then shown. This is equipment that the studios can afford, but that real-life labs would give their eyeteeth for. Elizabeth had a few of these devices on display. One of them can actually detect a “butt print,” said Oprah. “We'll have to do that next on our show,” laughed Marg. Marg got to play victim, sitting on a chair. The device, which is a thermal-imaging device used by fire departments to find people in a fire, can also detect a heat print left on a chair. If you get to a crime scene very quickly, you can find where the suspects sat. And when Marg stood up, you could see the white outline of where she sat, and Marg just laughed away at the results. The next gadget was a 'scope on a rope', a handheld microscope that's hooked up to a laptop that can even detect the fabric pattern of a sweater. “There's a little lint there, no offense, Marg,” said Elizabeth.
          The rest of the show was spent talking to real-life forensic pathologists and CSIs (Marg actually joined the audience). All these women were quite passionate about their careers.

Check out Oprah for where you can order tapes, etc., or view their gallery of photos from the episode. Click here to see what Marg Helgenberger likes to read.

Oct 23 2003 - You can read an article on Gary Dourdan's movie-in-progress, Black August, at the Marin Independent Journal.

Oct 23 2003 - What episode is really playing tonight? Who knows? The Chicago Sun-Times said today CBS also played a shell game with its schedule last week. Here's the episode originally set for last week in which, at a high school football game, it's not the home team that chokes.

Oct 23 2003 - Curious about just what happened at the end of "Homebodies"? Apparently many readers of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazzette wondered too. To avoid spoilers, go to the Spoilers page and look for "Homebodies" to see what CBS had to say.

Oct 23 2003 - CSI is mentioned, albeit briefly, in the "Media Death Machine" article about violence in entertainment, specifically popular movies such as the remake of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Read the full story at the Denver Post.

Oct 23 2003 - Tonight's episode was reviewed in the Detroit Free Press: "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation"- Just in case you were ever wondering whatever happened to first season American Idol hottie Ryan Starr, she guest stars as a comely corpse washed up on a beach near Lake Mojaveduring an extreme Las Vegas area heat wave. Was it a drowning or murder? CSIs Nick and Sara are on the heat wave case, piecing together clues. Sounds homicidal to me. Maybe someone heard her sing.

Oct 23 2003 - CSI and CSI: Miami are #1 and #7, respectively, in the national ratings. However, in Houston, they are #1 and #2. Without a Trace is #3 compared to ER at #17. You can read more about what Houston folk like at the Houston Chronicle.

Oct 22 2003 - UPDATE!! I wrote the Charlie Rose Show and they told me they hope to show William Petersen's interview on Friday, October 24th, so set your VCRs and cross your fingers!

Oct 21 2003 - CHANGE: Marg Helgenberger is slated to appear on the Oprah Winfrey Show on Thursday the 23rd now (or the 24th if it doesn't show).. The site reads "Real Life CSI Stories (PG) Twists and turns, sex, violence, murder… we're uncovering real life CSI stories! Ride along with a real death investigator to be the first on the scene, and see the high-tech forensic gadgets that make it all possible. Plus, star of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Marg Helgenberger chats with Oprah!". ... (Thanks to Lee Anne for the tip)

Oct 21 2003 - Yet again, the Charlie Rose show didn't show William Petersen's segment. Hope they don't wait till "Invisible Evidence" shows to air this segment!

Oct 21 2003 - William Petersen showed up at the halfway mark at the GQ Man of the Year 2003 awards. He wore a black T-shirt and great gray suit, to accept his award for TV Actor. Here's his acceptance speech.

Wow, Slamming Sammy, next year, baby! (Baseball player Sammy Sosa gave him the award.) What an honor, geez, and this. (Holds up award.) Thank you to GQ, to all the readers, the editors. When they told me that I was going to receive this, I was a little dumbstruck and then it dawned on me that a big part of the title in the thing is 'man,' and I thought to myself well, why do I qualify for that? (laughs) And I realized at a certain point if I could stand up here and be a man at all, it was because ... as somebody great once said that behind any successful man stands a strong woman, and I am unbelievably fortunate to have actually five great women standing behind me, and I just want to take the chance to thank them. One is my long-time friend and producing partner, Cindy Chavatal. Thank you so much for your dedication and commitment to me and my career. I have a personal assistant for 25 years, Roberta Custer, who has put up with just a whole wagon full of shennanigans who I have to thank. I thank you, Roberta, for your undying loyalty. My 94-year-old mother is at home in Chicago, hopefully watching. She ... (audience applauds). I know she had a tough time watching the Cubs in the post-season. It was... It was all she could do to survive it. All of us, actually. But my mother taught me about the theater as a child and she spent my 50 years teaching me about how beautiful life can be, and for that I'm eternally grateful, Mom. I'm also the most fortunate guy... I have such a gorgeous and loving wife, Gina, who for many years now has shown me that the things I do and the things I think and the things I feel are worthwhile and meaningful and she gives me courage every day to be myself, and the greatest gift a man can get is the love of a good woman. (shows Gina in audience). And finally I want to thank my daughter who this afternoon delivered an 8-pound 2-ounce baby boy. (audience applauds). So I'm finally a grandfather!! Darling daughter, you are my inspiration and my hero. Those are the women that allow me to stand up here and receive a Man of the Year thing. Anyway, so thank you all, God bless you. Go Cubs!

You can also find some professional images at WireImage. WPAP has a video clip of the speech.

Oct 21 2003 - There are many articles on how CSI isn't quite as accurate as real-life forensics, but here's a good article worth reading.

Oct 21 2003 - Gerald McCullouch, who portrays ballistics technician Bobby Dawson on CSI, wrote and directed the 13 minute short film The Moment After, which will show at the Spokane, Washington Annual Gay/Lesbian Film Festival on November 8, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. Check here for more information.

Oct 20 2003 - CHANGE: William Petersen will appear on the Charlie Rose show on Tuesday, October 21st instead of Monday. His appearance was taped. It airs on PBS, 11:00 p.m. ET in the NYC area. Check your local listings for time/channel.

Oct 20 2003 - George Eads is in the latest issue of US Weekly magazine, on sale till the 27th. The brief stats of this "It" personality is ... Stats: 36, 6"1', Pisces. Romance report: Single "It's great and fun, but [not] as fullfilling as a family." About Him: There's no significant other, but this chisled actor an ex-teacher and copier salesman does have a warm body to come home to: his yellow lab, Maverick. "He's a sexy, big man", Eads says of his fat dog, laughing. As science-geek cop Nick Stokes, the Texas native (now in LA) never wears police blues, but he learned about men in uniform the time his house went up in smoke. "When I saw those fireman, I thought they were studs!" (Thanks to Michelle for the tip)

Oct 20 2003 - The WPAP site has a video clip of Willian Petersen's acceptance speech for receiving the American Society of Clinical Pathology's