Celebrity Extra: LeAnn Rimes
By Dana Jackson
Q: Is LeAnn Rimes still doing music? I remember seeing her on a billboard for a concert at a local casino a while back, but nothing since. -- F.N.
A: It's been 25 years since LeAnn Rimes shot to stardom at the age of 13 with her hit song "Blue." Growing up in the public eye took its toll on her, and she sought help years later for depression, anxiety and codependency. She's much happier and healthier now, with husband/actor Eddie Cibrian ("Hot in Cleveland") and stepsons Mason and Jake. She's even made amends with Eddie's ex-wife, Brandi Glanville ("Real Housewives of Beverly Hills").
After taking a break from show business during the isolating pandemic, Rimes is preparing to release a new album, "God's Work," on Sept. 16, and she's already in the midst of her tour. You can find tour dates and other information at www.LeAnnRimes.com.
LeAnn Rimes Photo Credit: Depositphotos
***
Q: Is it true that they are reviving "The Love Boat"? Will it have celebrity guest stars like the original did? It's a shame the late Gavin MacLeod can't be a part of it. -- Y.R.
A:Yes, "The Love Boat" is the latest nostalgic reboot of an old TV show, but with a twist. It won't be a drama with celebrities like Charo looking for fictional love. Instead, according to TV Guide, the new version will be a reality show where "singles set sail on a real Princess cruise ship and, as they visit exotic Mediterranean ports, pair up to test their chemistry with challenges."
Real-life husband and wife Jerry O'Connell and Rebecca Romijn are hosts of the dating show, and while you won't see Gavin MacLeod, who played Capt. Stubing and passed away last year, you will see other familiar faces. Jill Whelan, who played little Vicki Stubing, and Ted Lange, who played bartender Isaac, will pop in to offer words of advice to the contestants.
"The Real Love Boat" premieres Oct. 5 at 9 p.m. ET on CBS.
***
Q: Is Mark Harmon ever coming back to "NCIS"? He was still featured in the opening credits last season, so it makes me think he'll eventually return. -- K.L.
A: When we saw Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by Mark Harmon, cast his fishing line into the chilly Alaskan waters on Oct. 11 of last year, it seemed like a permanent retirement for the character. That was just four episodes into the 19th season of "NCIS," and he's remained off-screen ever since -- despite being in the opening credit sequence for the remainder of the season.
CBS entertainment president Kelly Kahl explained to TVLine that season 19 was a "transition year for TV's most watched drama," but that it might not be the end for Gibbs. There's a good chance he'll be taken out of the credits for season 20, but that doesn't mean he can't pop back in for a guest appearance or more.
Season 20 of "NCIS" will premiere on Sept. 19 at 9 p.m. ET on CBS.
Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail.com, or write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
(c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.