Michael Jackson's personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, was sentenced to four years in jail and denied probation on Tuesday (November 29) for his conviction on a charge of involuntary manslaughter in the pop star's death. In sentencing Murray, the judge called the doctor's actions "money for medicine madness that is simply not acceptable to me." Murray will serve his sentence in Los Angeles County jail but he could serve less than the four years because of overcrowding.
Nominations for the Independent Spirit Awards -- the so-called alternative Oscars -- have been announced. "The Descendants" won nominations for director Alexander Payne for the Hawaii-set story of a man trying to connect with his daughters as his wife lay in a coma. Payne was also nominated for best screenplay. "Beginners," which on Monday shared the top prize for best feature at the Gotham Film Awards which also honor independent films, won four nominations including two for Mike Mills for directing and for his screenplay. "he Artist" also won double nominations for screenplay and directing. The film festival hit also scored a nod for lead actor. The awards will be handed out on February 25 in Los Angeles.
Comedian Patrice O'Neal has died in a New York-area hospital from complications after suffering a stroke last month. He was 41. His most recent televised performance was part of last summer's Comedy Central roast of Charlie Sheen.
Lindsay Claiborn, Reuters.