A book review in today’s New York Times examines Shocking True Story, the new history of original gossip magazine Confidential. And reading about the early celeb rag’s conquests — from Lucille Ball to Joe DiMaggio — it’s impossible not to be reminded of today’s gossip leaders, from Gawker to Perez Hilton. It’s a comparison Gawker boss Nick Denton would not only be proud of, but made himself.

Who: Colin Firth interviewed by Janet Maslin What: TimesTalks’ “A Conversation with Colin Firth” Where: The Times Center When: January 20, 2010 Thumbs: Up When you ask Colin Firth to speak about what went into his latest performance, he won’t give you the typical actor-speak. Rather, he’ll tell you more widely how his character fits [...]

Who: Alec Baldwin interviewed by Janet Maslin What: TimesTalks’ “Live with Alec Baldwin”Where: The Times CenterWhen: December 3, 2009Thumbs: Up