Original sentence: Vilanch gave Midler some career advice: "You’re pretty funny.Vilanch's career as a writer and celebrity began when he was writing entertainment features for The Chicago Tribune, and spending time with as many celebrities or semi-celebrities as possible
Edited sentence: Bruce Vilanch's career as a writer and celebrity began when he was writing entertainment features for The Chicago Tribune, and spending time with whatever celebrities or semi-celebrities were available.Vilanch gave Midler some astute career advice: "You’re pretty funny