Last updated 08/17/2008 11:48:03 AM Refresh for latest updates |
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Snipes Dodges IRS ‘Silver Bullet’ By Del Goldman, Entertainment correspondent February 2, 2008, Hollywood--Friday’s federal court decision clearing actor Wesley Snipes of tax fraud and conspiracy charges has some of Hollywood’s biggest stars text-messaging their lawyers. Snipes, who refused to file tax returns from 1999 to 2004, eluded a possible 16-year jail term in a series of legal moves reminiscent of his role as clever former police officer John Cutter in “Passenger 57.” Snipes lawyers successfully argued that Snipes’ role as half-vampire/half-human in the “Blade” movie trilogy grants the actor nonresident alien status and places his earnings outside IRS jurisdiction. Writer Marv Wolfman and artist Gene Colan created the Blade character for Marvel Comics in 1973. Blade’s mother was bitten by a vampire while in labor, giving the child vampire genes and an identity as dhampir. Federal tax codes do not classify dhampirs as legal earners, the court ruled. “Always bet on black!” a defiant Snipes shouted once the decision was handed down. Many Hollywood actors are now reviewing their portfolios looking for similar roles. Chewbacca should definitely qualify, says actor Peter Mayhew, who played the loyal Wookie with the melancholy howl in four “Star Wars” films. “My problem is, I’ve only made $362 since 2003,” he said. “But I’m talking to a [Screen Actors] Guild lawyer.” The ramifications of the decision will be far reaching in Hollywood, said high-powered cowboy attorney Gerry Spence. “Legal issues could in the future prohibit actors from portraying Americans who earn money or commit crimes,” Spence said. “Reliable sources—sources I trust—tell me federal prosecutors are already investigating unreported revenues Clooney took in when he ripped off that casino.” |
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The NewsLampoon.com is a satirical news website published by NewsLampoon, Inc. The News Lampoon uses invented names in all its stories, except in cases when public figures are being satirized. Any other use of real names is accidental and coincidental. © Copyright 2008 by NewsLampoon. The News Lampoon is not intended for readers under 18 years of age. Last updated: 08/17/08.
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