Based on preliminary data, ABC's Oscar audience better than doubled combined viewing of NBC, CBS and Fox during those hours. As usual, ratings in major TV markets such as Los Angeles, New York and Chicago exceeded the national average. Several workers rights groups accused the company of using sweatshop labor at independently contracted factories. They are claiming that approx. 300 garment workers have been denied fair compensation for hours worked, and that workers have never been paid for overtime which usually amounts to more than 30 hours per week.
Some stores plan to offer sizable discounts to get rid of excess inventory.
The Boston area also reports slow sales, while the Atlanta area is reporting that Women's apparel is selling well. Just weeks before she lured her new husband away from his long time sweetheart, Jolie was caught in bed with her leading man in her latest movie. Jolie recently married her previous co-star Billy Bob Thornton, taking him away from a three year relationship with Laura Dern. Lang was named Menswear Designer of the Year, while de la Renta won Womenswear Designer of the Year. Lang, who did not attend the ceremony, beat nominees Kenneth Cole and Marc Jacobs.