Angel: to ask or not to ask
May 22, 2008 | 10:34
am
To ask or not to ask, that is the question.As I predicted the questions surrounding Criss Angel's threat to the Review-Journal's Norm Clarke at the Miss USA pageant in April have continued to cloud the public unveiling of Angel's new $100-million Cirque du Soleil show, "Believe." Cirque and Angel held a special press function Saturday to promote the show. I was not invited. Also not invited was Steve Friess (from USA Today and New York Times) who recently asked Angel about the incident with Clarke on a red carpet. Clarke was not there either.
But the Review-Journal's show reviewer and entertainment feature writer Mike Weatherford was among the select few chosen to interview Angel. Amazingly, he did not ask Angel to address the situation regarding his Review-Journal colleague. I e-mailed Weatherford to find out why he refrained from asking the obvious questions about the Miss USA incident? To his credit, Weatherford wrote back almost at once:
"This hasn't been actively discussed, but I think it has gone unsaid that since Norm and I mostly work independently already, I need to keep doing my thing (cover this show all the way through its opening) and let him do his. Besides, the interviews weren't one-on-one and there was a sense of the meter running in the presence of Kats (John Katsilometes, Las Vegas Sun) and the AP on my side of the table, and the show's director and choreographer on the other, none of whom would probably appreciate the limited window of time sidetracked by Norm talk."
I still would have asked about the situation; yet, I understand Weatherford's decision. The editor he works for asked for a story on the new Cirque show and not on the show's star's spat with Norm Clarke. I am sure if Weatherford were doing a feature-length profile of Angel, then he would have asked about the issue. Because in trying to understand Criss Angel in a profile, his behavior that night raises major questions about the man Cirque is investing $100 million into showcasing on the Strip.
As I said, these questions will continue to haunt Angel because his behavior continues to go unexplained by himself, Cirque or MGM-Mirage (owner of Luxor, the show's host property). One of those questions: How can threatening to poke an eye out of a reporter be seen as acceptable behavior for a Strip headliner by his partners in "Believe" (two of the most respected corporations in town, MGM-Mirage and Cirque)?
Meanwhile I have spoken to three witnesses to the encounter with Clarke and they all essentially offer the same account of Angel's behavior. In fact, no one has directly disputed the accuracy of Clarke's account of that night. If Angel threatened Clarke, as Clarke claims and the witnesses I spoke to agree, and Angel continues to refuse to either retract the threat or offer any explanation, how can the story go away? And, if Angel wishes to continue avoiding discussing that night, that means each press event will need to be further controlled, with fewer press members invited. The problem won't end until enough time has passed that people no longer want an explanation from Angel. How long that will be is anyone's guess.
Certainly that moment has not even come close to arriving. Steve Friess, for example, strongly argues on his blog that Weatherford's decision not to ask Angel about the incident was baffling. Here is why. Weatherford wrote a response on his own blog to Friess here further defending his decision not to ask Angel about the Norm Clarke controversy.
Clearly there are those in the media who think Angel should be asked about this incident at every event, by every responsible reporter, until there is an explanation given. That must be disconcerting to those investing $100 million in his show, which opens in just a few months.
Bottom line: as "Believe" nears opening in September, there is as much interest in Angel's seemingly erratic behavior as their is anticipation of his show. This was not the case when "Believe" was announced. (photo by Sarah Gerke)
But the Review-Journal's show reviewer and entertainment feature writer Mike Weatherford was among the select few chosen to interview Angel. Amazingly, he did not ask Angel to address the situation regarding his Review-Journal colleague. I e-mailed Weatherford to find out why he refrained from asking the obvious questions about the Miss USA incident? To his credit, Weatherford wrote back almost at once:
"This hasn't been actively discussed, but I think it has gone unsaid that since Norm and I mostly work independently already, I need to keep doing my thing (cover this show all the way through its opening) and let him do his. Besides, the interviews weren't one-on-one and there was a sense of the meter running in the presence of Kats (John Katsilometes, Las Vegas Sun) and the AP on my side of the table, and the show's director and choreographer on the other, none of whom would probably appreciate the limited window of time sidetracked by Norm talk."
I still would have asked about the situation; yet, I understand Weatherford's decision. The editor he works for asked for a story on the new Cirque show and not on the show's star's spat with Norm Clarke. I am sure if Weatherford were doing a feature-length profile of Angel, then he would have asked about the issue. Because in trying to understand Criss Angel in a profile, his behavior that night raises major questions about the man Cirque is investing $100 million into showcasing on the Strip.
As I said, these questions will continue to haunt Angel because his behavior continues to go unexplained by himself, Cirque or MGM-Mirage (owner of Luxor, the show's host property). One of those questions: How can threatening to poke an eye out of a reporter be seen as acceptable behavior for a Strip headliner by his partners in "Believe" (two of the most respected corporations in town, MGM-Mirage and Cirque)?
Meanwhile I have spoken to three witnesses to the encounter with Clarke and they all essentially offer the same account of Angel's behavior. In fact, no one has directly disputed the accuracy of Clarke's account of that night. If Angel threatened Clarke, as Clarke claims and the witnesses I spoke to agree, and Angel continues to refuse to either retract the threat or offer any explanation, how can the story go away? And, if Angel wishes to continue avoiding discussing that night, that means each press event will need to be further controlled, with fewer press members invited. The problem won't end until enough time has passed that people no longer want an explanation from Angel. How long that will be is anyone's guess.
Certainly that moment has not even come close to arriving. Steve Friess, for example, strongly argues on his blog that Weatherford's decision not to ask Angel about the incident was baffling. Here is why. Weatherford wrote a response on his own blog to Friess here further defending his decision not to ask Angel about the Norm Clarke controversy.
Clearly there are those in the media who think Angel should be asked about this incident at every event, by every responsible reporter, until there is an explanation given. That must be disconcerting to those investing $100 million in his show, which opens in just a few months.
Bottom line: as "Believe" nears opening in September, there is as much interest in Angel's seemingly erratic behavior as their is anticipation of his show. This was not the case when "Believe" was announced. (photo by Sarah Gerke)
Funny how I made a 2 paragraph statement and it got cut down to a little over one sentence.
Apparently there was truth in what I stated, and someone wants to hide it! Wonder why?
I must have hit the nail on the head which would have put an end to all this, lol.
Posted by: Angels66 | May 25, 2008 at 07:39 AM
JDJONES, you are the one posting all this, you creep. Stop hijacking the names of Emma, HH, and amanda !!!! Everyone knows you are just trying to cause a fight and it won't work! Emma happens to be ill and does not need this dirt being said about her right now, and I can't find anyone who even knows who amanda is. Maybe you don't like HH because she is opinionated, but take it up with her directly if you have a problem with her (too scared, I expect). Stop stealing innocent people's identities to hurt people. You are sick!
Posted by: Tired of the Fakers | May 25, 2008 at 02:39 PM
This silence by Criss Angel (as well as Cirque's) is compelling. It tells me this. It clearly exhibits utter disregard and contempt for reporters and others...basically anyone he feels who doesn't do what he wants, likes him and/or, in his paranoia for fame, money, success and urgent need to be in the spotlight, anyone that he feels is a threat to his image. This erratic behavior not only effects him, but his fans too.
As of now, I am going to make every effort to explain to every tourist visiting Las Vegas who the real CA is, that he threatened a respected Las Vegas Review Journal reporter, subsequently showing no effort to own up to it, exhibiting absolutely no remorse. In further explaining this to tourists, I am going to ensure that I spread the word widely that it is not a good idea to go to his show at the Luxor based on the above and his total arrogance towards reporters and people In Las Vegas. Sorry, Cirque people, but you chose to back a loser.
In that same line of thought, I am going to urge people to not watch his TV shows nor buy any product of his or any that he endorses.
This perhaps won't mean anything to CA nor to his supporters, but that's neither here nor there. What's right is right. I cannot, and neither should anyone else, support a so called celebrity who acts like this. People are going to say that what I am doing won't make a difference. That may be true. But then again, a lot of "grass roots" type of actions like mine catch momentum.
Posted by: ColinFromLasVegas | May 25, 2008 at 09:30 PM
I don't know what's worse, Criss the poser & pretender or his groupies who
are posting here.
Perhaps the next time he makes threats, he'll direct them to someone closer to
his age. In fact I work out in Vegas with a couple of boxers I'd love to introduce
this Tommy Lee wannabe to. Wimp.
Posted by: Wade Collins | May 25, 2008 at 10:22 PM
Amanda & High Horse:
Here is a post from one of Giselle’s friends. I saw it when I was reading about his plans for season 4.
"Congratulations by bff, Gigi. You finally got yourself a great catch. Criss is a great guy, a HOT guy and one that I know will treat you and your baby like no other. Glad to hear that you both have now moved into Luxor. You three will be Luxor royalty now. Please come visit me at BARE…I haven’t seen you in a few. We miss both your faces. love Beth Posted by: Beth@BarePool on 05/28/2008 01:43 PM"
Wonder how the Canadian Girl he is allegedly "engaged" to feels about this???
ALso, everyone, check out (cut & paste this to view video at the CMA's):
http://www.brightcove.tv/title.jsp?title=1566340770&channel=416537484
WATCH HOW GISELLE ROLLS HER EYES WHEN CRISS TALKS ABOUT HIS LATEST ILLUSION - PRETTY DISRESPECTFUL IF YOU ASK ME - HOW IS THIS SUPPORTING 'A FRIEND"?????
By sam on May 29, 2008
Posted by: Scott | May 29, 2008 at 09:01 AM
Can someone explain "the famous contempt for Clarke possessed by R-J Editor Thomas Mitchell"
Why does his editor hold him in contempt?
Makes you wonder, eh?
Posted by: Angels66 | May 29, 2008 at 02:21 PM
Amanda and HH have nothing to do with those posts and would never act so stupid. They are just from a troll trying to embarrass them. And embarrass Criss Angel by making his fans look silly.
Like he needs the help lately, lol.
Posted by: Anonymous | May 29, 2008 at 02:54 PM
Here's a possible breaking story....
You know how Criss repeats the old saying, "Believe half of what you read and half of what you see, " Well it got me thinking, If he's already moved Giselle and her baby in with him at LUxor, after supposedly only dating a month, -I bet her baby is also his!. She just had a baby 4 months ago and she's no longer is with the baby's father ??. -Who they say is some light group exec. Weird. I think that's a cover up story to protect Criss''s image/career. He has to maintain this bachelor image. I bet he got this chick pregnant. it was said, that he knew her for a while. Tha'ts probably the real story.
I don't believe everything I read. Actions speak louder than words.
Posted by: INFO | May 30, 2008 at 12:46 AM
I agree with you INFO.....Criss and Giselle have known each other for a long time. At least well over a year since she was in the Kid in Criss epi. I have to think that if Criss is that willing to step in, take on family responsibilities, etc that the baby must be his. Actions do speak louder than words and this screams so much info.
Posted by: Loyal Jeanne | May 30, 2008 at 08:26 AM
see ColinfromVegas.....Criss does have a very responsible side. He just knows how to work it for his celebrity status.
Posted by: Loyal Jeanne | May 30, 2008 at 08:58 AM
The baby is not his. He took up with her because I couldn't stomach his drinking any longer. They deserve each other now. So everyone stop paying attention to them and they will go away.
Posted by: Veronica | June 01, 2008 at 07:57 PM
to the so-called "Veronica"....I seriously doubt Criss has issues with alcohol. We all know Criss enjoys a cocktail once or twice a week but that does not mean he overindulges 24/7.
It is clearly obvious that Criss has been focusing on is health and well-being. Criss physique is at its best as of date. No one can focus on their physique if they are overindulging in alcholol.
Posted by: Loyal Jeanne | June 03, 2008 at 08:05 AM
I guess it's good that CA focuses on something. His physique. Not his image, personality or behavior though.
Kind of interesting to note that in a book that is out (or just coming out) about Jenna Jameson, the porn actress who lives here in Las Vegas, CA showed an interest in her and hit on her once, wanting her to go for a ride in his car or something. Later, after CA found out her boyfriend was Mr. Ortiz, a UFC fighter, he apologized to her, saying he didn't know and then he left her alone. Ms. Jenna Jameson noted that Mr. Ortiz is good for keeping the wolves away from her.
That's just something to feed you Loyal gals. Because you gals love to read about his exploits on and off the stage so that you can worship the ground he walks on and hope that he does more stuff to feed your empty souls...good or bad.
I still say CA is an arrogant idiot with no self control but a lot of ego. I still contend that he is not the type of entertainer that Las Vegas wants or needs and I would love to see him depart Las Vegas for parts unknown, good riddance.
Posted by: ColinFromLasVegas | June 04, 2008 at 07:12 AM
A quick respond to you Colin. Some of us Criss fans still enjoy watching him and continue to support him regardless of what he does on his personal time. As in reference to the recent Jenna Jameson comment in her boyfriend's upcoming book. This is not his first encounter Criss has had with a porn actress. I recall rumors flying back at the 2007 AVM Awards Criss attempted to pick up another famous adult actress, Jessie Jane. Not sure if he actually got lucky with her that night but I'm still a fan of his. I think the bad-boy image is Criss image and it obviously does well for him because his career continues to grow leaps and bounds.
Posted by: Loyal Jeanne | June 04, 2008 at 08:28 AM
Loyal Jeanne: Appreciate the truthfulness and candor about CA. That kind of personae is way way beyond my scope of understanding though. How can someone live their entire life predicated upon a story, a lie, a created image? And keep that entire untruth going to keep him in the spotlight? I could care less who he goes out with though, whether it's porn stars, transvestites or sheep. I live in Las Vegas and nothing shocks you here.
I guess the point I'm trying to make is that CA's image HERE in Las Vegas is suffering badly. Why? Because he did it to himself by threatening a respected journalist from the newspaper that has been around and reporting on things way longer than CA has ever become a so called celebrity. Also, he comes into town and creates a sideshow from the Miss USA Pageant as well as other stupid antics, such as demonstrating his pickpocketing abilities out in front of Planet Hollywood on the Strip. This whole image is coming off to a lot of people big and small here in Las Vegas that Criss Angel basically thinks he can do what he wants when he wants and he can hurt anyone he wants and he is not limited by anything, including laws and people's feelings. This is clearly demonstrated by his total disregard for any of his actions, show of any remorse and clearly demonstrated arrogance and contempt for others.
From looking at local happenings here in Las Vegas, I strongly suspect Criss Angel is being shunned from things that are happening in town because of this general overall attitude and stupid personae he has to keep maintenance of, as if others in the spotlight don't want to have anything to do with him, even those that would and could help his celebrity status and show biz career. For instance, not being invited to the opening for Mr. Maloof's Palms Resort. So, this bad boy image is fine and dandy I guess, but he has taken it to new lengths and really screwed himself.
But, I guess we're stuck with him. Just like we'll be stuck with O.J. Simpson.
Posted by: ColinFromLasVegas | June 04, 2008 at 02:48 PM
As of last night, CA is sporting a black eye. Any idea how he got that way? LOL~
Posted by: Yen Woo Ping | June 04, 2008 at 07:16 PM
No idea on the black eye. Haven't heard a thing about it. Where did you see this? Anyway, Criss is mentioned in Norm Clarke's column again. If Mr. Clarke were truly taking this supposed "threat" seriously, do you really think he would tempt fate like this and risk Criss following through? Tabloid journalism will live forever as long as there are celebrities to torment.
Love ya', Criss
Posted by: Loyal Sandy | June 05, 2008 at 09:23 PM
the link above, there you can see sully and criss with his black eye ... maybe just some rehearsal-accident.
Posted by: devil | June 07, 2008 at 04:40 AM
okay, it's late here, I'm really tired, and maybe I'm just missing something, BUT, the link above where, devil?
Posted by: Loyal Sandy | June 07, 2008 at 08:14 PM
@loyalSandy
i`m sorry, i thought the link appears above my post. *hug*
when you click at my name 'devil' (in my first post) then you come to another page where you see the picture : )
Posted by: devil | June 08, 2008 at 03:14 AM
thanks, devil. i would like to think this was an accident, but with his current behavior, who knows.
Posted by: Loyal Sandy | June 09, 2008 at 01:38 PM
it was an accident - don`t be worried about it anymore. he is okay, it`s just a black eye : )
Posted by: devil | June 10, 2008 at 02:58 AM
i guess i'm just a little confused by the official story of being caught between a bull and a fence. how do you get a black eye from that situation and not have any other visible marks on you at all? and where DID the black eye come from, the bull or the fence?
Posted by: Loyal Sandy | June 11, 2008 at 09:06 PM
Hahaha, I guess this is what they refer to as KARMA. Criss has been sporting a black eye for the past two weeks. This should teach him a lesson.
Posted by: LoyalJ | June 12, 2008 at 09:21 AM
@LoyalSandy
maybe criss has some other injuries - we cannot see everything because he has clothes on ... maybe he suffered from a concussion or bruises on bodyparts we don`t see.
when you go to criss website, you can see a short video of criss and the bull but not the actual accident ... but he did shoot a video so the story must be true
Posted by: devil | June 12, 2008 at 11:17 AM