Overnight Briefing & General Reality Check

Money Talks:

A new survey from the National Retail Federation predicts that come Feb 06, Super Bowl partiers will spend just over $10 billion, with 171 million planning on watching the game --the most in the survey's history. Of those, 35 million --or 15 percent of viewers-- plan to host their own parties, an increase from last year's 32 million. And 61 million, or 26%, plan to attend a game party, up from 59 million last year.
   The average consumer plans to spend $59 on game-related merchandise, apparel and snacks, up from $53 last year. (Kaye)

Trash talk and satellite dish:

What's a guy to do when most of America thinks you're a dirt bag? Hire a consultant, of course! Sources tell Us Weekly that EDDIE CIBRIAN is trying to re-vamp his image and fed up with being portrayed as a "philandering sleaze." Word is his new advisor suggested he attend a Lakers game with his son rather than a buddy and might make him trade in his Porsche for a politically-correct Prius. (Lee)

Gossip Central: tabloids:

SETH ROGEN doesn't want his fiancee, LAUREN MILLER, to sign a prenup. Us Weekly reports that the actor said, "if I lose millions [in a divorce] it'll be the best millions I've ever spent." (Myers)

Broadcast, cable and video news:

Look for WILL FERRELL in a four-episode story arc on NBC's "The Office" as STEVE CARRELL finishes up his stint on the show later this season.
   The Hollywood Reporter says he'll play an inappropriate branch manager who arrives from the home office. As you remember, Steve and Will are good friends who also co-starred in "Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy," in 2004.

Here's a hot rumor: With KEITH OLBERMANN punting out of MSNBC, the behind-the-scenes gossip is that ALEC BALDWIN could be coming aboard to host a show on the network.

Tonight:

   --"Jersey Shore" [spoiler]: look for Ronnie to make up with J-Woww, which causes Sammi to flip out, threaten to pack her bags and split. Meanwhile, The Situation uncovers Deena's dirty little secret; and Vinny goes out with a girl who has an overbearing family.

Grace notes:

JIMMY BUFFETT fell off the stage yesterday near the end of a concert in Sydney, Australia. The Daily Telegraph says he landed in the first rowand was rushed by ambulance to a local hospital. Several audience members said it looked like Jimmy gashed his head and was unconscious. Late last night, CNN was reporting that 64-year-old Jimmy is out of the hospital and doing OK. (Marino)

Lowering expectations:

A woman in Italy filed for divorce after being married for just a month. The reason? She was angry at her husband for bringing his mother along on the honeymoon.
   Agence France-Presse reports the unidentified bride had no idea her mother-in-law was coming until she spotted her at the airport. The couple had booked a vacation in France. But, the groom never told his wife about the third airline ticket.
   The guy claimed he couldn't leave his mother alone for health reasons. The three spent the honeymoon together. But, as soon as they got home, the woman filed for divorce on the grounds of "excessive emotional attachment" between her husband and his mommy. (Still)