Manson banned from venue

Controversial rock star Marilyn Manson has been banned from appearing at a concert venue in New York state, in the US.

The singer was due to appear at amusement park Six Flags, in Buffalo, as part of the 2003 Ozzfest tour organised by singer and reality TV star Ozzy Osbourne.

But the amusement park said the star's act was not appropriate for the venue.

"We decided to pass on the Marilyn Manson performance," a statement from the park said.

---

Osmonds to receive Hollywood star

Singing family The Osmonds will take their place with the entertainment elite on Thursday when they receive their star on the Hollywood walk of fame.

More than 2,000 entertainers have been immortalised on the walk of fame since Joanne Woodward became the first to be honoured in 1960.

Recent inductees include Lionel Ritchie and special effects pioneer Ray Harryhausen.

---

Actress picked for Jessica Lynch role

Canadian actress Laura Regan is to play Iraq war prisoner Jessica Lynch in a forthcoming TV film.

Saving Jessica Lynch, which is being produced by NBC, will tell the story of the 20-year-old maintenance clerk private's capture by Iraqi forces and subsequent liberation by US troops in April.

It is being prepared for a November release.

Regan is best known for her role in the horror film They, which was released last year.