newsmakers

newsmakers

Lohan accepts plea with 90 days in rehab

LOS ANGELES

Lindsay Lohan accepted a plea deal Monday in a misdemeanor car-crash case that includes 90 days in a rehabilitation facility.

The actress, who has struggled for years with legal problems, pleaded no contest to reckless driving and lying to police in an accident involving the actress in June. A charge of obstructing officers who were investigating the accident was dropped.

A judge said Lohan will be sentenced to 90 days in rehab, 30 days of community labor and 18 months of psychological therapy.

Before the “Mean Girls” actress left the courtroom, Superior Judge Superior Court Judge James R. Dabney offered her a suggestion.

“Don’t drive,” he said.

Lohan was on probation when her sports car crashed on Pacific Coast Highway while on her way to a film shoot.

The 26-year-old actress has been sentenced repeatedly to jail since 2007 when she was twice arrested for driving under the influence.

‘Bible’ makers dismiss Obama connection

NEW YORK

The producers of the cable TV miniseries on the Bible say Internet chatter that their Satan character resembles President Barack Obama is “utter nonsense.”

Mark Burnett and Roma Downey said Monday the Moroccan actor who played Satan in the History channel series, Mehdi Ouzaani, has played Satanic characters in other biblical programs long before Obama was elected president.

The connection got widespread attention after talk-show host Glenn Beck last week tweeted: “Does Satan look EXACTLY like Obama? Yes!”

History said in a statement that the network has “the highest respect” for Obama, and that “it’s unfortunate that anyone made this false connection.”

“Both Mark and I have nothing but respect and love our president, who is a fellow Christian,” said Downey, the “Touched By an Angel” actress who is married to Burnett.

Returning ‘Voice’ adds extended episodes

LOS ANGELES

NBC is making the most of its returning hit series “The Voice.”

The network said Monday the show will double to two hours April 30 and May 7 to showcase pivotal rounds in the singing competition.

“The Voice” begins its new season at 8 p.m. Monday, with another two-hour episode. NBC, struggling in the ratings, is counting on the show to provide a boost.

Returning coaches Adam Levine and Blake Shelton will be joined by newcomers Usher and Shakira.

They’re stepping in for Christina Aguilera and CeeLo Green, who are taking a break from “The Voice” to focus on their music and other projects.

Vindicator wire services