Omarosa in reality show

Omarosa in reality show

NEW YORK — Donald Trump says he’s partnering with the TV One network on a reality dating series starring TV diva Omarosa.

Having proven herself as a fiery contender on Trump’s “The Apprentice,” she now will be the one choosing from contenders who compete to marry her on “Omarosa’s Ultimate Merger.” Created by Trump Productions, the eight-episode show will follow Omarosa, who is a native of Youngstown, as she puts a dozen rival bachelors through challenges.

The series is scheduled to premiere in the spring on TV One, a cable network targeting black viewers.

‘Eastwick’ gets the ax

NEW YORK — ABC says its new fall drama “Eastwick” won’t be on the air beyond its first 13 episodes.

The show is based on the John Updike novel “The Witches of Eastwick” and a 1987 film version, but has been haunted by low ratings.

It attracted fewer than 5 million viewers last week.

‘McHale’s Navy’ star dies

LOS ANGELES — Carl Ballantine, a comedian, magician and actor who was in the 1960s TV sitcom “McHale’s Navy,” has died. He was 92. Ballantine switched from straight magic to comedy in the 1940s. He played crewman Lester Gruber in “McHale’s Navy.”

Today’s birthdays

Organist Booker T. Jones of Booker T. and the MG’s is 65. Sportscaster Al Michaels is 65. Singer Neil Young is 64. Guitarist Buck Dharma of Blue Oyster Cult is 62. Actress Megan Mullally is 51. Actor Ryan Gosling is 29. Singer Omarion is 25.