Wedded bliss

Los Angeles — “Entertainment Tonight” anchor Bob Goen married Home & Garden Television show host Marianne Curan in a private ceremony.

About 60 family members and friends attended the ceremony at a private home in Southern California, said Goen’s publicist, Lee Wallman.

Curan, who is host of the HGTV show “Landscaper’s Challenge,” wore a dress she designed created by stylists Karen Mann and Kris Saints. Goen wore a custom-made cream sports coat and camel slacks by designer Rick Pallack.

The Saturday evening ceremony was officiated by a friend of the couple, David Katzner, who was ordained online, Wallman said.

This is the second marriage for both Curan and Goen.

Ventura weighs in on gay marriage ban

Boston — Former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura threw his feather boa into the gay marriage ring, calling it a “cop out” for Massachusetts lawmakers to send a constitutional ban to voters.

“We have a representative-style government. Represent your people and vote, and stand by what you believe in,” Ventura, who was known for his flamboyant costumes as a professional wrestler, said Monday. “Civil rights issues should not be put on the ballot.”

Currently a fellow at Harvard University’s Institute of Politics, Ventura appeared at the Statehouse alongside State Auditor Joseph DeNucci, a former boxer.

Sporting a new beard, Ventura asked, “How is my marriage under attack if two gays or lesbians down the street want to make a lifelong commitment to themselves?”

More Nick and Jessica for your viewing pleasure

New York — Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson will star in “The Nick & Jessica Variety Hour,” scheduled to air April 11 on ABC.

The special will feature a series of sketches and musical performances, the network said Monday. Guests will include Jewel, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Kenny Rogers, baseball hall of famer Johnny Bench, Mr. T and The Muppets stars Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy.

Lachey and Edmonds will sing a duet of Stevie Wonder’s “For Once in My Life,” and Simpson and Jewel will sing “Who Will Save Your Soul.”

More Mo’Nique on BET Awards

New York — Mo’Nique will return as host of the BET Awards, which honor achievement in music, acting and sports.

The 2004 ceremony is set for June 29 at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles, the cable channel announced. The actress-comedian made her debut as host of the BET Awards last year.

Danny Glover will receive this year’s humanitarian award, and the Isley Brothers will be honored with a lifetime achievement award.