People talk 12/19/03

Creator of 'South Park' enjoys Butters better

NEW YORK -- Butters has become one of Trey Parker's favorite "South Park" characters. Butters, who's blond and constantly being picked on, started playing a larger role when muffled, hooded Kenny was killed off for a year, says Parker, who created the popular Comedy Central animated show with Matt Stone. "We ended up adding all these dimensions to Butters that I think were really great," Parker said. "He's always the kid that's worried his parents are going to ground him, but on the other hand he's got this other persona where he thinks he's this evil superhero, but even in that he does the most mundane things."

'Rings' star expresses sadness at trilogy's end

NEW YORK -- Elijah Wood, star of "The Lord of the Rings" films, is bracing for separation anxiety. "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" opened Wednesday in theaters nationwide. It's the final installment in Peter Jackson's fantasy trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien's text. All three films were shot during a 15-month period in New Zealand. "The fellowship in many ways will carry on for the rest of our lives," said the 22-year-old Wood.

Clay Aiken gets noticed for his good manners

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Clay Aiken, a runner-up on the Fox network's talent contest "American Idol," heads the National League of Junior Cotillions' list of the "Ten Best-Mannered People of 2003." The Charlotte-based organization, an etiquette and social training program for young people, announced its 12th annual list Tuesday. Aiken, 25, was selected "because of the courteous manner in which he treats fellow performers and fans."

-- From wire reports