Fired ‘Apprentice’ claims racism

New York — Fired “Apprentice” Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth — hated by some of her fellow cast members — got plenty of love Thursday at Ebony magazine’s awards luncheon.

Manigault-Stallworth, a guest, received hugs, kisses and requests for photos at the fifth annual event, which honors outstanding women in marketing and communications.

After Manigault-Stallworth was “fired” March 4, the 30-year-old claimed former contestant Ereka Vetrini had called her the “n-word.” Vetrini has vigorously denied the allegation, as have executive producers Mark Burnett and Donald Trump.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Manigault-Stallworth, a former political consultant, said her experience showed the problems of racism in corporate America.

“Both of those gentlemen weren’t there, so I find it ironic that they would be so emphatic that something did not happen.”

Stewart to stay on ‘Daily Show’

New York — Whoever runs for president in 2008 will be covered by Jon Stewart on the satirical news program “The Daily Show.”

The star of the Comedy Central mock newscast has re-upped for four more years, the cable channel said Thursday.

“A lot of people like to get out when their show’s still going well,” Stewart said. “This gives me the opportunity to beat this thing into the ground.”

Besides being host, Stewart serves as an executive producer and writer. His contract had been set to expire at the end of this year.

Stewart joined the program in January 1999, taking over for Craig Kilborn.

Affleck joining forces with Regis

New York — First it was Ben and J.Lo, but soon it will be Ben and … R.Phi?

That’s what will happen when Ben Affleck co-hosts with Regis Philbin on “Live With Regis and Kelly.”

Affleck fills in for Kelly Ripa, who’s on vacation, during Monday’s episode of the syndicated morning talk show.

Afflect is known for his Philbin impersonation. Also appearing on the show, which was taped in advance, is Darrell Hammond of “Saturday Night Live,” who will compete with Affleck in a “Reege-off” to see who does the best impression of Philbin.