Mourners gather for Gans’ funeral

Danny Gans' family and friends gathered early Tuesday for a small, private funeral at an undisclosed Palm cemetery.

Gans, 52, was found dead at his home early Friday.

The cause of death did not show up in the autopsy, according to the Clark County coroner's office. Results from toxicology tests typically take weeks.

Two pastors who have been associated with Gans and his family spoke at the funeral.

Gans, the headliner at the Encore hotel for 12 weeks, had reunited with Steve Wynn, who had signed him to an eight-year deal at The Mirage in 2000.

The family has asked for donations to two of Gans' favorite charities -- the Junior Golf Academy and the Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation -- in lieu of flowers. Donation information can be found at DannyGans.com.

A memorial service is being planned, possibly in Gans' theater at Encore.

CNN talk show host Larry King announced on his Twitter site Monday that he will do two shows at Gans' theater June 19-20, with his wife, Shawn King, opening for him as musical guest. The CNN star's autobiography, "My Remarkable Journey," comes out May 19.

Comedian Whoopi Goldberg has been booked for late this month.

MARIE OSMOND: 'VERY SUPPORTIVE'

Marie Osmond has come out in favor of gay rights.

In an interview with Los Angeles radio station KOST 103.5, the Flamingo headliner said it was "not a sensitive issue" for her.

She said she supports gay couples having civil rights.

"I think it's important to look at the commandment love thy neighbor as thyself," said Osmond, who has eight children. Her oldest daughter, Jessica, 21, has been in a gay relationship for three years, according to reports.

"One thing I did not appreciate growing up, everybody quoted me and told me what to say; you gotta do this, do that," she said. "I'm not doing that to my daughter. I'm not going to answer questions on her behalf."

She added: "You know, I think each of us has the right to choose who makes that medical decision for us. I think everybody should have the right to share homes and finances with somebody that they care about. You know on those types of things I'm very supportive.

"When it comes to marriage ... I think that civil rights need to be for all. When you start mixing religion into that and beliefs, you know, I do believe in the Bible. My daughter understands my beliefs. And, and, uh, you know, God said to be married and be productive with your children and, and, you know, replenish the earth or whatever.

"She understands those things. My daughter is sharp. And we have a great relationship, and I think she would tell you that."

THE SCENE AND HEARD

Imprisoned Las Vegas celebrity impersonator Trina Johnson-Finn was denied release Tuesday and faces a May 26 trial on charges of impersonating Toni Braxton. Her attorney had filed an appeal to have her released Tuesday based on the arrest of the concert promoter Saturday, but the judge denied it. According to published reports, Angel Ventura was captured in a harbor bar in Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname and location of Johnson-Finn's Feb. 28 concert. She has been incarcerated since March. ...

John Fredericks, former meteorologist at KVBC-TV, Channel 3, is being interviewed today by Kim and Dana Wagner on "Wake Up With the Wagners" (7-9 a.m.). Fredericks discusses his departure from the station late last year after shaving his head, and his new career as an author.

SIGHTINGS

Ashanti and friends, being watched by a huge bodyguard at their pool cabana at Planet Hollywood Resort on Tuesday. Also there: Holly Madison, doing a photo shoot in a tiny bikini. Ashanti hosted at Prive on Monday. ... Howie Mandell, with family and friends at Serendipity 3 (Caesars Palace) on Sunday, seated on the Strip side of the patio. ... Boxer Ricky Hatton, spotted with a Bud Light at the Rockhouse Bar & Nightclub on Sunday, while his entourage gathered around a bottle of Ketel One vodka. Earlier, he dined at Morton's The Steakhouse with his fiancee, Jennifer Dooley, and her parents.

THE PUNCH LINE

"President Obama said the new Supreme Court judge will be a free-thinker and a woman. I'm guessing Paula Abdul." -- Harrah's headliner Rita Rudner

Norm Clarke can be reached at (702) 383-0244 or norm@reviewjournal.com. Find additional sightings and more online at www.normclarke.com.