Odds & Ends: Josh Gad Honors Robin Williams, Barbra Gets Cozy with Buble & More

Here's a quick roundup of stories you may have missed today.

Josh Gad Pays Tribute to the Late Robin Williams
The entertainment industry lost a legend when Oscar winner Robin Williams died on August 11 at the age of 63. Several stage and screen stars expressed their grief and shared memories, including Frozen and The Book of Mormon star Josh Gad. Gad first met Williams when they were both appearing on Broadway, and they just so happened to live in the same building. In USA Today, the Tony nominee says his late friend’s performance as the Genie in Aladdin paved the way for his own Disney sidekick role: “The joy and laughter that my little snowman has brought to children is because of the man who has left this world far too early. A man who taught me to be free, to be childlike, and a man who taught me to get out of my own way as a performer.”

Talk Drama with Tony Winners Cynthia Nixon, Denis O’Hare & More
The Public Theater has announced the fall lineup for its fifth Public Forum series. The program consists of one-night-only readings and discussions that connect dramatic literature to the community. Participants for the upcoming season include Fun Home graphic novel author Alison Bechdel, Tony winners Cynthia Nixon and Denis O’Hare, Salman Rushdie and Oscar winner F. Murray Abraham.

Streisand Goes Head to Head with Bublé
We reported earlier that Barbra Streisand is teaming up with some stellar singers on her next album, Partners. And now, we have our first taste. Take a look below at Streisand and Michael Bublé in the studio recording “It Had to Be You.” They sound great, but let’s take a closer look at two divalicious moments from Babs. “Michael is a big band singer,” she explains. “I thought, why not start it as a ballad?” But didn’t you just say that he…never mind. Watch this and brighten up your Tuesday.