The Happy Elf

HARRY CONNICK JR. is producing an animated holiday TV special based on The Happy Elf, a song from his 2003 Christmas CD, Harry For The Holidays. The one-hour special, which will be done in 3-D animation, will tell the story of Eubie, an elf who tries to bring Christmas joy to a sad town called Blueville. An animated Harry will be the host and narrator for the special, and the real Harry will compose the music. No word yet on what network will air the special -- it won't be ready until Christmas of 2005.

BEYONCE was rehearsing with her homegirls in Destiny's Child on Tuesday for an upcoming TV special and wound up tearing a leg muscle. Billboard.com says it was Beyonce's right hamstring, and the injury could mess up the vocal group's reunion plans. She can walk, but has been warned by doctors not to dance. The reunion album is called "Destiny Fulfilled," and will be in stores on November 16th.

We can expect the Material Mom's British accent to get stronger. Apparently after conquering the world, MADONNA wants to take over London's [b]Oxford University, and pick up a degree in literature. Pals say she wants to further her knowledge of British literary greats such as Shakespeare, Thomas Hardy and Jane Austen... by studying for a Bachelor in Arts.

MGM confirmed yesterday that it has put '007' on hold. The movie Bond 21 was scheduled for release Nov. 21, 2005, but the studio made the decision to postpone it because it hasn't found a director for the film. Sources familiar with the situation said that the producers plan to meet next month to decide whether to aim for a summer 2006 or November 2006 release date. Weird thing is, there was NO word on the speculation that Pierce Brosnan will not continue as James Bond, which would also mean recasting, and possibly more delays.

Tyra Banks is officially adding the role of talk show host to her resume. The model, actress and creator/executive producer/star of UPN's America's Next Top Model has signed a deal (with Telepictures Prods.) to develop a daytime talk show. Of course Tyra will host the show (a 'multi-topic' talk show)... and serve as an executive producer. We can expect a fall 2005 syndication launch.