Essay 2063

Girl Talk in a MultiCultClassics Monologue…

• There’s a catfight building between Barbie and Bratz dolls. A new Barbie website features a character who appears to be very Bratz-like (pictured above). The CEO of the company behind Bratz said, “Mattel has always been envious of us. It’s a shame that the No. 1 toy company keeps knocking off others instead of being innovators and leaders.” Wonder if the battle will play out between Courtroom Barbie® and Lawyer Bratz® dolls.

• Deidre Imus, wife of shock jock Don Imus, is slated to give the commencement address at Pace University on May 21. Mrs. Imus will receive an honorary doctorate degree in humane letters “for her work on behalf of children and the environment.” She could help clean up the airwaves by persuading her hubby to remain in seclusion.

• Richard Gere offered an apology for the controversy sparked by his public kiss with Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty (see Essay 2055). “What is most important to me is that my intentions as an HIV/AIDS advocate be made clear, and that my friends in India understand that it has never been, nor could it ever be, my intention to offend you,” said Gere in a statement. He also called the incident “a naive misread of Indian customs.” Although it appears Gere is essentially telling India to kiss his ass.