John August News

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is extending invitations to join the organization to 134 artists and executives who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to theatrical motion pictures. Those who accept the invitation will be the only additions in 2009 to the Academy's roster of voting members.

ABC made several midseason programming announcements, including the decision to not pick up 'Pushing Daisies,' for another full season. ABC also announced the end of 'Dirty Sexy Money' and 'Eli Stone'.

The Hollywood Reporter is stating that Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel will be writing new new lyrics for the Touchstone Pictures comedy 'Bob: The Musical.' Mark Waters is rumored to direct. Chris Bender and J.C. Spink of Benderspink and Beau Flynn and Tripp Vinson of Contrafilm are producing.