Recent content from C.J.
C.J. : Fox News Channel's Harris Faulkner is never genuinely 'Outnumbered'
Fox News Channel’s Harris Faulkner’s web show “Outnumbered Overtime” did so well online that it earned a spot on TV. A former KSTP-TV anchor…
C.J.: Music or basketball, Prince executed what was in his head, says NPG's Hayes
Morris Hayes’ height advantage was irrelevant when Prince was on the basketball court. That was the case even when the New Power Generation…
C.J.: Columbine survivor's documentary will premiere in Minnesota
"Parkland — that just seemed very similar and familiar to Columbine," said Laura Farber, who survived the April 20, 1999, massacre in Littleton, Colo.,…
C.J.: At least monster trucker Becky McDonough slows her roll when the roads are slippery
The Brainerd native won her first stadium freestyle event in 2016 at U.S. Bank Stadium and is back for more Saturday.
C.J.: Get out the tissues for Louie Anderson's new book 'Hey Mom'
Anderson is scheduled to autograph "Hey Mom: Stories for My Mother, But You Can Read Them Too," at the Mall of America April 14 at 2 p.m. It's the book his fans have been waiting for since "Dear Dad: Letters from an Adult Child," because he's basically playing his mom on "Baskets."
C.J.: Recy Taylor's family members are conflicted about the documentary
“The Rape of Recy Taylor” documentary was difficult for family members to view, for reasons obvious and unexpected. Three members of Taylor’s family were flown…
C.J.: Baseball fans get their rankings in the paperback "In Pursuit of Pennants"
The paperback version of 2015’s “In Pursuit of Pennants” has been freshened up with the stuff readers seemed most curious about when talking to authors…
C.J.: Jeff Gerbino, now snowbird, reviews Franken, Louis CK, Leno
The former Twin Cities radio show host, with a gift for impersonations, now lives in the Tampa-St. Pete area.
C.J.: Oprah dishes the dirt about Minnesota soil with Jasmine Brett Stringer
While lifestyle expert and author Jasmine Brett Stringer was in Croatia on a farm conference trip, Amazon was preparing a delightful surprise. “Last…
C.J. : 'The Rape of Recy Taylor' documentary keeps speaking to the woman bringing it to St. Paul
Members of Taylor's family are expected to attend and speak, Monique Linder said.
C.J.: 'The Rape of Recy Taylor' documentary set for a Twin Cities screening
The first time most of us heard Recy Taylor’s name was during Oprah’s stirring “Me Too” speech at the 2018 Golden Globes, shortly after Taylor’s…
C.J.: Twin Cities attorney sews 'bridge' to help buxom women stand tall
Criminal defense attorney Judy Samson tired of her breasts bouncing around and, instead of turning to a surgeon, went to her sewing machine.
C.J.: Media racist and exclusionary, says retired New York Times sports columnist
Award-winning sports columnist William C. Rhoden picked the wrong off-the-beaten-path spot for our interview, so there is no video. A columnist for ESPN’s theundefeated.com…
C.J.: Former KSTP reporter covers 'slim niche' with 'Queens' documentary
Former KSTP-TV reporter Mark Saxenmeyer wrote, edited and produced the documentary "The Queens," which is about the transgender subculture of competitive female impersonation.
C.J.: Granddaughter of the late Judge Miles Lord aims to remain a Minnesota-based comedian
Comic Maggie Faris was fascinated by Donald Trump’s hair before he was elected president. I learned about her curiosity over the fibers swirling…
![“If somebody tells you they are sick, you can pray; but there is still [medicine] they can take,” said Yvonne Orji of "Insecure."](http://stmedia.stimg.co/ows_151856670681260.jpg?h=120&w=180&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
C.J.: 'Insecure' co-star Yvonne Orji lives her values, not her character's
Orji, who has freely talked about being a 30-something virgin in interviews, has a personal life that is the opposite of her character, Molly.
C.J.: Playtime at the 'Kitten Bowl' should've been fun
The constant line of fans showed how very popular this Super Bowl Live pastime was.
C.J. : ESPN's Stephen A. Smith says he is humble about many things
Insults from detractors may be taking a toll on the "First Take" host.
C.J.: Yes, retired Vikings Purple People Eater Jim Marshall is tired of those questions
In the weeks leading up to the Super Bowl, something laid low Purple People Eater Jim Marshall. When the famed Vikings defensive lineman couldn’t…
C.J.: 'Nothing' makes ESPN's Stephen A. Smith nervous
The relentlessly verbose lightning rod will host "First Take" at the Hard Rock Cafe as part of ESPN's presence during the Super Bowl.
C.J. : 'Magnificent' Jeremiah Tower goes on about Champagne, goes off on Chef Gordon Ramsay
Jeremiah Tower, the subject of Anthony Bourdain’s documentary “The Last Magnificent,” recently graced the metro with his elegant presence. I was able to…
C.J.: Medical matters may be nudging Larry Fitzgerald Sr. toward the Sun Belt
The longtime Spokesman-Recorder sports columnist and broadcaster had a transcatheter aortic valve replacement, necessitated by the narrowing of an artery.
Trash talking with Philly? Not exactly a tough assignment
The Philly columnist kicked things off with: "Like almost all Americans, I've never been to Minnesota. What am I missing, other than frostbite...?"
C.J.: Shawn Brundidge wouldn't have subjected his model son to H&M monkey business
The fallout continues for H&M over an ad featuring a black child modeling a hoodie emblazoned with the words “Coolest monkey in the jungle.”
C.J.: Attorney Clinton Collins' spirit is light as he awaits a double organ transplant
He talks about needing a new kidney and pancreas.
C.J.: Troubadour Larry Long's American Roots Revue drops by the Dakota
American Roots Revue presented by Larry Long returns Saturday to the Dakota. This is Long’s 12th Revue with its revolving roster of talent from…
C.J.: Interviewing is a sport to Soledad O'Brien: 'You execute on the field'
The territory she likes best? Uncomfortable questions about sex, race and politics.
C.J.: Soledad O'Brien thanks hubby for their PowHERful homel ife
The already immensely busy Emmy-winning journalist Soledad O’Brien wishes more of the young women who attend her “PowHERful” conferences would hit her up for…
C.J.: 2017 offers feminist feast for Lizz Winstead annual show: Franken, Louis CK
There is always a lot of laughter when I hang with my friend Lizz Winstead, the satirist. Years before she became co-creator of Comedy…
C.J.: Former NFLer Ben Utecht is channeling Andy Williams
Former Super Bowl winner Ben Utecht is channeling Andy Williams. The former Gopher who won a Super Bowl with Peyton Manning’s 2006…
C.J.: 'Ubered' author Evan Kail riding high after finding publisher
Evan Kail, the author of “Ubered: My Life as a Rideshare Driver,” has found himself a book deal with Texas-based Black Rose…
C.J.: Twins behind King Brothers Clothiers have book about passion for fashion
The more time I spend with King Brothers Clothiers owners, twins Danny and Kenny King, the less red and blue they become. To…
C.J.: Vanessa Williams embraces a new interpretation of 'Save the Best for Last'
Vanessa Williams’ aspirations never included becoming a beauty queen. That’s one of the many revealing tidbits from her book “You Have No Idea,” which…
C.J.: Multitalented Vanessa Williams tells why she stays so grounded
Vanessa Williams’ breathtaking beauty might be her least interesting attribute, I can report after interviewing her in November at Evine, the Eden Prairie-based online…
C.J.: Jokes take shape when comedian/magician David Harris takes stage with contortionist Cheryl Birch
As soon as I downloaded the video of the comedian/magician and the contortionist, it was obvious that she should’ve been standing on a chair.…
C.J.: Kim Insley has shed no tears since being dropped after 24 years by KARE 11
“Mornings were such a fun day part,” said Kim Insley, the former KARE 11 “Sunrise” anchor who was dropped by the station in…
C.J.: The Blenders will harmonize at "Holiday Soul Tour" at Pantages Theatre
Tim Kasper, the Florida member of Minnesota’s Blenders, plans to get back into the local mix again by buying another place here. “I haven’t…
C.J.: Actor found way to win over producer who harassed him
With a little psychology, actor Adam Ambruso survived being sexually harassed by a male Hollywood producer.
C.J.: Comedians mine their memories for Minjares/Pepitos fundraiser
Louie Anderson is apparently saving his funny Joe Minjares story for the Nov. 25 comedy benefit to raise money for Minjares’ medical expenses.…
C.J.: A 10-year-old's upcoming art show mixes Legos and fashion
The 10-year-old St. Paul boy makes bow ties with Legos.
C.J.: Patrick Fabian says Howard's duds suit him well on "Better Call Saul"
Patrick Fabian plays someone a lot less in control in "Driver X" than Howard Hamlin, the "Better Call Saul" character who inspires strangers to…
C.J.: Variety's Elizabeth Wagmeister also serves up the dish on "Page Six TV"
Variety reporter Elizabeth Wagmeister has the kind of pleasant delivery that must make it easier for an interview subject to entertain tough questions.…
C.J.: 'Blood Stripe' film a family affair for Remy Auberjonois
There was room to add the talents of René Auberjonois, Remy's father.
![“It’s going to be interesting to [take Fancy Ray] out on the road,” comedian Chris Shaw.](http://stmedia.stimg.co/ows_150854511659926.jpg?h=120&w=180&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
C.J.: Chris Shaw, Fancy Ray get serious about raising money for Lone Survivor Foundation
The self-proclaimed “Best Lookin’ Man in Comedy” and a comic “rat” from the Adam’s Pest Control commercials were repeatedly upstaged by an accidental audience. I…
C.J.: Ex-Viking, retired Justice Alan Page might not kneel but identifies with Castile
On Halloween, when retired Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Alan Page passes out candy, some trick-or-treaters might think his pinky looks odd just to entertain…
C.J.: Retired Justice Alan Page and daughter put love, learning and family into children's books
Retired Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Alan Page uses real life in his children’s books, but he’d prefer not to use his real life.…
C.J.: Richard Painter works the nerves of some GOPers the way he once tickled the ivories
Republican political pundit and University of Minnesota law professor Richard Painter is not conservative enough for some in his party. The regular on MSNBC,…
C.J.: Richard Painter laments Trump, lack of GOP action on guns
“So. Ask me any questions you want!” said Richard Painter, the U corporate law professor and network TV political pundit who’s all over the…
C.J.: Radio reporter April Ryan says Hillary took the high road when the campaign was a street fight
In Part 2 of my interview with American Urban Radio Networks correspondent and CNN contributor April D. Ryan there’s a great tease for her…
C.J.: May the Force Field blanket keep those monsters out of your kid's room
A Kickstarter campaign with a goal of $25,000 was at $96,000 Friday.
C.J.: Flap with Sean Spicer doesn't faze April D. Ryan: 'They think they can scare me'
April D. Ryan thanked me for interviewing her? “I am thrilled to be on the phone with you. I am so happy…
C.J.: Camille Williams is no fashion match for husband, KARE 11 co-anchor Cory Hepola
KARE 11 weekend anchor Cory Hepola is the household fashionista, and his wife and co-anchor, Camille Williams, couldn’t care less. Since…
C.J.: Minneapolis-born singer Ava Raiin aims to reign on charts plus, maybe, art galleries
Imagine being at an art show where the artist leaves the invited guests to take the stage and sing. Entertainer Ava Raiin could do…
C.J.: TV writer Matt Goldman writes crime novel set in – wait for it – Edina
Goldman will be at Once Upon a Crime at 7 p.m. Sept. 14 to read and sign copies of his first crime novel "Gone to Dust."
C.J.: Gorgeous actor Chris Massoglia is hoping his third kiss will be his first real one
The Minnesota native is co-starring with former "American Idol" contestant Moriah Peters in "Because of Grácia."
C.J.: Sheletta Brundidge's trip to Houston for grandmother's funeral turned out to be a whirlwind
The devastation in Houston caused by Harvey hit very close to home for Cottage Grove’s Sheletta Brundidge. A native of Houston, Brundidge was there…
C.J.: Docu filmmaker Joe Brandmeier finds humor a key to healthy marriage
He jumped out of his comfort zone behind the camera to produce the "I Do?" inspired by a rough patch in his 28-year union with Joan Steffend.
C.J.: Former KSTP anchor Mark Suppelsa leaving Chicago's WGN 'at top of his game'
It’s time to share, instead of privately cherish, the interview I did four months ago with former Twin Cities anchor Mark Suppelsa. Last week…
C.J.: Brenda Langton has a milliner for a daughter
Celina Kane’s career choice had to be creative. The daughter of restaurateur Brenda Langton and artist Timothy Kane is a milliner…
C.J.: 'Fool Me Once' singer Lindsey Webster is set to play the Dakota
Billboard's 2016 smooth jazz artist of the year is performing with Minnesotans Stokely and Shaun LaBelle.
C.J.: Jesse Garcia IV is living the advice his late police officer dad gave
Bethel College student Jesse Garcia IV is headed off to the LA Film Studies Center, a collegiate adventure that probably would have delighted his…
C.J.: Minnesota's Samantha Harris is hosting summer run of 'Culinary Genius'
The Hopkins High alum and former host of "Entertainment Tonight" and "Dancing With The Stars" has a show featuring home cooks that debuted Monday.
Owner of dogs shot, wounded by Minneapolis officer has a thing or two to say
Jennifer LeMay says life "has been complete hell for three weeks."
C.J.: CBS correspondent/author/dad Jeff Pegues explores race and policing
The former KMSPer has finished a book, "Black and Blue: Inside the Divide between the Police and Black America," and is already busy on his second.
C.J.: Pepitos owner/comic Joe Minjares has seen some antics in 45-plus years at restaurant
Joe Minjares can prepare anything on the Pepitos menu, but he could’ve never cooked up many of the scenes that occurred at the Mexican…
![“I’m not a huge fan of [Trump], but I like that he loves America,” firm director Tom Simes said.](http://stmedia.stimg.co/ows_150103347911928.jpg?h=120&w=180&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
C.J.: Director Tom Simes has faith in 'Because of Grácia,' starring Minnesota's Chris Massoglia
Massoglia plays an insecure high school senior dedicated to not calling attention to himself who gets drawn out by a new student played by Moriah Peters of "American Idol."
C.J.: Actor, Pepitos owner Joe Minjares reflects on life and love as lung disease advances
Joe Minjares seems mostly happy despite pulmonary fibrosis, which has advanced from the diagnosis six years ago to the point that he needs a portable oxygen tank.
Alan Gorrie says stamina, great tunes help Average White Band beat averages
The Average White Band is the headliner at the Lowertown Blues & Funk Festival in St. Paul’s Mears Park on Friday and Saturday. After a…
C.J.: Lou Nanne suppressed many an urge to slap a sports reporter
The hockey great was looking great after recent hip surgery.
CBS' Jeff Pegues writes about the gulf between blacks and police
The KMSP-TV alum clearly enjoys tackling books as heavy as his average 14-hour workday.
C.J.: Back in Minnesota, Louie Anderson should be safe from Galifianakis pranks
Comedian's new show mines his Fitbit, family and more.
C.J.: Floor director Tim Niccum leaves Fox 9 for better hours
He is leaving Fox 9 to work for BlueEarth Innovation, a Web development firm in St. Paul.
C.J.: 'The Q,' a humble talk show host who wants to earn an appearance on "Wendy"
“The Q’s” mom lived to see her son achieve the career goal he has harbored since age 12. “I wanted a talk show,” said
C.J.: Nekima Levy-Pounds enjoys campaigning with baby on board
Minneapolis mayoral candidate Nekima Levy-Pounds has felt energized as she hits the campaign trail — while expecting. She and her entrepreneur husband,
C.J.: 'Chocolate Rain' and its many memes bring sweet success to Tay Zonday
“Chocolate Rain” singer Tay Zonday was in the metro recently working on a Best Buy project. “A small project with Best Buy’s internal production…
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