Mario Lopez was on Star 98.7 yesterday and announced his imminent hosting gig for the entertainment news show “Extra”. Lopez has been reporting for the show for the weekend edition since January 2007, but will now be taking over for co-hosts Mark McGrath and Dayna Devon. McGrath continued to perform with his band Sugar Ray while doing the show, but as they are now working on a new album, he wanted to make the group his focus. As for Devon, she will return to doing celebrity interviews and serve as a substitute for Lopez.

Lopez’s adorable dimples won me over years ago in “Saved by the Bell” and that shower scene in “Nip/Tuck” a few seasons back didn’t hurt either. Now, it seems the man has won over the producers at “Extra” as the man to take the show in a new direction. And what direction would that be? No one was sure. So during another interview on the Ryan Seacrest’s KIIS FM show, they called the executive producer of the show to find out and got an earful. I suppose she took it as an opportunity to rave about herself rant about how the secrecy is to prevent further idea stealing from her.

“The first 16 times it was flattering but, after that it’s downright plagiarism. Get your own playbook!”

Crazy lady aside, it seems to me that Lopez’s career has really been picking back up lately. Despite the occasional overkill joke or comment and loud outfit, as the host of MTV’s “America’s Best Dance Crew”, Lopez does a pretty decent job. Set to take over on September 15^th, how do you think the People’s Magazine Hottest Bachelor of 2008 will fare?

In an interview with People magazine, Mario Lopez admits that his first kiss was with Fergie.

Mario told People magazine:

“I’m very proud of my first kiss! It was with Fergie… She says there was no tongue… She likes to point out that I was very smooth because I bought her perfume. She has stayed just as sweet as when we were kids.”

Mario and Fergie dated during their time together as co-stars on Kids Incorporated, when they were 10 years old. Here is a clip of Fergie confirming their relationship.

Mario is one lucky guy to have landed Fergie at 10 years old. We all know that he wouldn’t be able to do that today. Fergie is way to hot.

I went ahead and added a little clip of Kids Incoporated for those of you that have never heard of it and to refresh the memory of those who have forgotten. Enjoy a little blast from the past!

Mario Lopez will be making his Broadway debut in ‘A Chorus Line’ on April 15, as Zach, the demanding director who is casting the chorus roles for a new Broadway musical.

“Every actor dreams about appearing on a Broadway stage. I have as well, and have been searching for the right time and opportunity,” said Mario. “A Chorus Line is a legendary musical and I am so honored to have been chosen to join the amazing cast and be a part of the Broadway family.”

Mario will star in A Chorus Line from April 15th through September 7th; but, will be on hiatus from May 11 through June 3rd.

We all know that Mario can dance. I wonder if he has any real singing talent. It doesn’t really matter, it’s Mario Lopez, he is just fun to look at–who doesn’t love his cute dimply smile?

Mario Lopez is known for his bulging biceps and toned abs and he’s decided to help others achieve the same look in his new fitness book, Knockout Fitness, with writer Jeff O’Connell.

“Work-out” books seem so unnecessary and so unoriginal. Does anyone ever really follow the exercises like they’re supposed to?  Seriously, how many people have you ever met that got fit by using a book as their guide. Maybe the intention is always there, but never the effort.

Regardless of my feelings on the matter, here is an excerpt from Mario’s book description:

“With three stages designed to get the body in shape, build and sculpt muscle, and ultimately showcase one’s fit new form, the workout exercises every part of the anatomy–torso, arms, legs, and trouble areas like the thighs and belly.  Each stage includes some of the Mario’s favorite activities–among them boxing, running, biking, yoga, dance, basketball, and swimming–so readers can complete a full cardio workout with localized strength training …

The book’s description also promises “gorgeous full-color photography.” Wow, full color!  That’s so exciting to see the use of such new technology! (kidding–just kidding…)

Desperate Housewife’s, Eva Longoria, celebrated her 33rd birthday last night at her new restaurant, Beso. Some of her famous friends were there to celebrate with her including Mario Lopez, Sheryl Crow, Eve, Ken Paves, America Ferrera, and Marcia Cross; but, Eva’s husband, Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs, was not in attendance.  Eva’s official birthday isn’t until Saturday and it doesn’t look like hubby Tony will be making that day either due to his hectic basketball schedule. Eva doesn’t even seem to care. She has enough friends to have a good time and she is probably way used to Tony being gone all the time.