New York Times
Suspended New York Post Page Six gossip
Jared Paul Stern (at left/Getty Images) says after being accused of trying to extort money from Yucaipa chief
Ron Burkle: "I apologize for causing the New York Post any embarrassment after almost 11 years of loyal and dedicated service, and hope they would not rush to judgment." The Times says: "The accusations against Mr. Stern were striking for the boldness of his alleged behavior and the amount of money he is accused of requesting [$100,000 plus $10,000/month]. But gossip columns have always occupied a murky corner in the realm of journalistic standards, which traditionally preclude writers and editors from accepting gifts from those they cover."
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NOTED: The Times reports Stern said on tape that
Harvey Weinstein has had his "coverage on the page finessed." Page Six seems to confirm that today with a
puff piece on the Miramax films co-founder. (Read
Nikki Finke's
piece on Weinstein and Page Six.)
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Actor Baldwin is shocked, shocked to find out this is going on at P6 (NYT)
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Feds have launched a sweeping investigation of the P6 operation (NYDN)
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NYDN editor: "In 35 years, I can't recall anything quite like this" (WP)
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Stern wasn't afraid to spew a little poison in his Page Six items (LAT)
