ABC to offer Latino fare to offset criticism

From Corespondent Dennis Michael

ABC is trying to appease the Latino community by airing a series of Latino-theme productions, including the movie "Selena." The network has bought the broadcast rights to the feature film based on the life of the late Tejana singing star. It is one of three Latino movies set for broadcast by the network, which has been the target of Latino boycotts.

The life of musician Frank Zappa will unfold in a new documentary. "Zappa: The Man and his Music" will feature unreleased recordings and rare archival footage. The feature-length film begins shooting in 1998.

Actor John Travolta is headed to court. Two movie companies have sued the star of "Face/Off" for walking out on director Roman Polanski's film "The Double" last year. Travolta's lawyer asked a judge to throw out the case, but it will go to trial in July.

Actor Walter Matthau is in the limelight again, and this time he's sharing it with his family. The American Film Institute will honor Matthau, his wife Carol and their son Charles in September with the first AFI Platinum Circle Award.

Latoya Jackson is single again. A judge in Las Vegas, Nevada, has granted Jackson a divorce from her husband and manager Jack Gordon. In 1993, Jackson accused Gordon of beating her, but Gordon said he was acting in self-defense.

Actress Kimberly Elise will visit the Civil War era in her latest project. Elise, one of the stars of "Set It Off," will play the lead in "Beloved." The film is based on Toni Morrison's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about a slave who escapes to freedom with her children.

MTV fans will get a taste this weekend of what it's like to attend a military college. MTV News will report at changes at two schools that now consider women applicants -- along with men. The special report "Breaking Ranks" will air Sunday with host Tabitha Soren.

"Politically Incorrect" is headed to prime time television. The late-night show hosted by Bill Maher will be broadcast live on Thursday nights, July 10 through July 21, on ABC.

Sylvester Stallone will no longer star in the film "Frequency," according to Daily Variety. Actor Tommy Lee Jones is a leading contender to take his place.

Rodney Dangerfield is reportedly suing an Internet provider for using his image without permission. He is accusing Epoch Networks of pirating his name and likeness to promote the company.

Mel Brooks' 1970 comedy "Twelve Chairs" will be available at the rental counter for the first time. It will be released as part of a collection.

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