Ledger Pop Journal - Celebrity News & Sports

Mekhi Phifer tells us he was already a big fan of Fox's "Lie to Me" -- in which Tim Roth's character has acute capabilities to perceive lies -- before ever having a clue that he would eventually join the cast of the crime drama. In fact, he says, "I TiVo'ed it from the first episode. It's obviously more than just a procedural show."

Mekhi Phifer, 'Lie to Me' (Image: WENN)

"It's not like watching 'CSI.' Nothing against 'CSI,' but this goes a different way, with Tim's ability to read people's micro-expressions and things of that nature." So, when the chance came around to play the FBI agent involved with Roth's group, says Phifer, "I was very flattered, and glad to have the chance to play a character with a sense of strength, intrigue and unpredictability." His character was introduced the final two episodes last season, and will be a regular when the show returns Sept. 28.

The longtime "ER" doc says "Lie to Me" also worked out perfectly for him personally speaking. "Doing a good series allows me to be multidimensional. I can be here in town, work and make great money for my family, and do rewarding work. I've been on an ensemble before, obviously, with 'ER,' and the hours are very livable. You have strong episodes where you have to do a hell of a lot and work long hours, and then you have episodes that are not so hectic."


THE BIG SCREEN SCENE: A sequel to 1993's harrowing film about girls in the Latino gang world of East L.A., "Mi Vida Loca," is on the way to production. Stars Seidy Lopez and Angel Aviles are back to reprise their roles as best friends from childhood, whose relationship was sorely tested in the original movie when one slept with, and became pregnant by, the other's boyfriend. The new film's called "Smile Now Cry Later," as in the slogan about entering gang life.

TV TRAUMAS: Casting notices have gone out for a redo of the pilot for CBS's "Miami Trauma" -- not to be confused with NBC's soon-due "Trauma" -- including a new co-star role of a 50-ish reliable and capable nurse. The show is from Jerry Bruckheimer, who can afford to go back and get it right.

CAPTAIN FANTASTIC: They're looking for four Elton Johns -- at age 5, age 12, in his 20s and in his 40s -- for a musical tribute to the legendary singer-composer, "Rocket Man," planned for unveiling next April in San Bernardino, Calif. Also wanted are performers to play Bernie Taupin, Patti LaBelle and ... Princess Margaret.