Reality show: Who needs Blagojevich?

April 25, 2009 at 12:00a.m.

LOS ANGELES — The reality series “I’m a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here!” lost Rod Blagojevich, but boasts reality TV lovebirds Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt and a Baldwin brother among the contestants.

Blagojevich, who had hoped to compete on the NBC show, was barred by a judge from traveling to Costa Rica for filming while he awaits trial on racketeering and other charges. The former Illinois governor was in Los Angeles on Friday to join in the cast announcement.

The group includes “The Hills” duo Montag and Pratt, who are set to be married this weekend; Stephen Baldwin; former “American Idol” competitor Sanjaya Malakar; John Salley; Janice Dickinson and Torrie Wilson.

The series begins airing in June.

Snoop Dogg trial begins

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Opening statements have begun in a civil trial against Snoop Dogg by a man who says the rapper and his entourage severely beat him in 2005.

Richard Monroe, Jr., claims he suffered serious injuries after jumping onstage during a Seattle concert. Monroe seeks $22 million in damages and punitive penalties against the rapper, whose real name is Calvin Broadus.

Monroe’s suit states he thought he had permission to join Broadus onstage during a performance of “Gin and Juice,” but was beaten and robbed by the performer and members of his entourage. Broadus attended one day of jury selection earlier this week, and was present in court as a tape of the incident was shown to jurors during opening statements by Monroe’s attorneys.

Polamalu, Fitzgerald on ‘Madden’ cover

WASHINGTON — This year’s edition of EA Sports’ “Madden NFL” video game will feature two cover athletes: Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu and Arizona Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald.

The shared cover of “Madden NFL 10,” which arrives in stores Aug. 14, has something for everyone: Polamalu is a defensive AFC player and Fitzgerald an offensive NFC player.

Both played in last season’s Super Bowl, which the Steelers won in a 27-23 nail-biter. Both athletes are known for their long, helmet-defying hair.

EA’s football franchise is feared for its mysterious “Madden curse”: Previous cover models such as Donovan McNabb, Shaun Alexander and Vince Young have suffered injuries during their “Madden” season.

Today’s birthdays

Actor Al Pacino is 69. Singer Bjorn Ulvaeus of ABBA is 64. Actress Talia Shire is 63. Actor Hank Azaria (“The Simpsons”) is 45. “Early Show” host Jane Clayson is 42. Actress Renee Zellweger is 40. Actor Jason Lee (“My Name Is Earl,” “Almost Famous”) is 39. Singer Jacob Underwood (O-Town) is 29.