CELEBRITY HIP_NEWS ARCHIVE [page 4]

 

LANCE BASS ON "DANCING WITH THE STARS" [E! Online, 9/17/08]

Lance Bass is counting on most of 'N Sync to come watch him compete in Dancing With the Stars. The only one he's not too sure about is Justin Timberlake. "If Justin ever calms down and doesn't not work, then he'll definitely be here," Bass says. With or without friends in the audience, Bass is, surprisingly quite nervous about DWTS. Why? Ya gotta keep reading for the second part of my one-on-one with Lance to find out... Never mind the complicated footwork—he's got those seriously tight and more-often-than-not revealing costumes to worry about. "I probably won't be doing it with my shirt off," Bass, 29, says. "I'm going to be very skeptical even to just do an open shirt!" His dance partner Lacey Schwimmer chimes in, "You need a lot of hair for that. We're going to have to put some extensions on your chest." Bass peeks into his T-shirt at his manscaped torso and laughs, "My hair's growing back!" His chest isn't his only concern. At 5'10" and 180 pounds, Bass is hoping to shed more than just the five pounds he's already lost since he began working with Schwimmer five weeks ago. "I just wanna be a little bit lighter," he explains. "I think I'm a good ten pounds overweight." (That's certainly debatable because, truth be told, he looks darn fit to me.)

 

KEVIN JONAS TAKES A WHITE LAMBORGHINI ON A TEST DRIVE [Aceshowbiz, 9/17/08]

Amidst his band's hectic schedule, Kevin Jonas still has time to channel his interest on posh car. The eldest of the Jonas Brothers was seen taking a white Lamborghini on a test drive in Los Angeles on Monday, September 15. Kevin was seen wearing black t-shirt under his gray coat.  He had what appeared to be sunglasses on his hands. No sign of the presence of his brothers Joe Jonas and Nick Jonas. A peek of Kevin's Lamborghini test drive can be seen on The Sun. Kevin, Joe, and Nick recently took to their official blog to answer fans' questions as part of their "Ask Us Anything" project. They shared all with their fans, from their tour schedule to their dating experience. Aside from their celebrity status, Jonas Brothers have previously admitted to be very "excited" that they could meet their biggest idol Britney Spears during the star-studded MTV Video Music Awards on September 7. With the awards show has been passing, the siblings just couldn't stop gushing about meeting the pop star for the very first time. "It is an honor and privilege to meet Britney Spears, of course. She looked great," Kevin told US Weekly at Sunday's City of Hope benefit concert in Universal City, Calif. Brother Joe, meanwhile, added, "We didn't want to become a 'Hi, Britney Spears, nice to meet you' and take a picture [type-of-thing]. I said, 'We have always loved your music,' and I told her she was the first CD I have ever bought. She was like, 'Wow! Thank you." Professionally, Jonas Brothers currently are prepping themselves for the production of their new TV show "J.O.N.A.S!"

 

RYAN O'NEAL SON ARRESTED AT MAILBU HOME [AP, 9/17/08]

Ryan O'Neal and his son were arrested Wednesday morning, September 17 after authorities said they found drugs at the actor's Malibu home during a routine probation check. Investigators suspect both men had methamphetamine, but the substances still need to be tested, Los Angeles County Sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore said. Los Angeles Sheriff's deputies and probation officers went to O'Neal's home for a routine check of his son Redmond, who is serving three years of probation after pleading guilty in June to drug possession charges. Whitmore said in addition to drugs that deputies suspect belong to Redmond O'Neal, deputies also found narcotics in Ryan O'Neal's living area. Both men remain in custody on $10,000 bail and could be charged with felony possession of narcotics. Ryan O'Neal, 67, was nominated for a best actor Oscar for "Love Story." Redmond, 23, is his son from a relationship with actress Farrah Fawcett. O'Neal had two children with his first wife, Joanna Moore: actor Griffin O'Neal and actress Tatum O'Neal, his co-star in the 1973 movie "Paper Moon," for which she won an Oscar for best supporting actress. Tatum O'Neal, the youngest actress to win an Oscar and who now has a recurring role on FX's series "Rescue Me," pleaded guilty in July to disorderly conduct in connection with an arrest on suspicion of cocaine possession in New York. Ryan O'Neal was arrested last February on suspicion of assaulting his son, Griffin, but charges were never filed.

 

STEPHEN COLBERT TO HOST MUSICAL CHRISTMAS SPECIAL [AP, 9/17/08]

O come, all ye Colbert faithful. Stephen Colbert will host his own Christmas special this year, Comedy Central announced Tuesday, September 16. "A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All!" will air Nov. 23 as a one-hour special. It will be a musical special featuring John Legend, Elvis Costello, Toby Keith, Willie Nelson, Feist — and "The Daily Show" host Jon Stewart, who's slated to sing a duet with Colbert of a song simply titled "Hanukkah." (The song Colbert is to sing with Nelson appears to be a version of "The Little Drummer Boy" — called "Little Dealer Boy.") Most of the special's songs have been written by "Daily Show" executive producer David Javerbaum and Fountains of Wayne's bassist Adam Schlesinger. Colbert, a practicing Catholic who has taught Sunday school in the past, has repeatedly found occasion to showcase his pipes on "The Colbert Report" — including a duet of the "The Star-Spangled Banner" with Legend and a brief serenade of Michelle Obama with Nat King Cole's "L-O-V-E." A DVD of the special will be released Nov. 25. Part of the proceeds will go to the charity Feeding America.

 

AMY POEHLER MOVES UP SNL EXIT [E! Online, 9/17/08]

Amy Poehler is about to birth herself a baby and a new TV show, and she's now decided to kick Saturday Night Live to the curb sooner than expected. Although it was widely known that Poehler would leave the late-night sketch show after this season, no timetable had been announced. But NBC confirmed today to E! News that Poehler would not be back after she breaks for maternity leave in a few weeks. Poelher's due to become a real-life baby mama in October. After she takes a brief hiatus (presumably to teach husband Will Arnett the ins and outs of diaper changing), she will go straight to work on her new, still untitled mockumentary show from the producers of The Office. Meaning she will officially be a Ready for Primetime Player and her services will no longer be required on SNL after nearly seven years. "It's gonna be really hard—Boyz II Men hard—to say goodbye to yesterday," Poehler recently joked to Men's Vogue of her departure. "SNL was dangerous, late-night, last-minute and star-studded, but like any good drug, you need to know when to put it down." The decision not to pull double-duty and forgo a return to SNL will also give Poehler more time to focus on her burgeoning big-screen career, which has included such films as Blades of Glory, Mr. Woodcock, Baby Mama and most recently Hamlet 2. Poelher, who turns 37 today, joined Saturday Night Live in 2001 as a featured performer and became the first comic since Eddie Murphy to be promoted to full-time cast member in her first season. Poehler eventually rose through the ranks and became anchor of Weekend Update, while offering spot-on impersonations of Kelly Ripa, Sharon Osbourne, Madonna and Hillary Clinton. Poehler and pal Tina Fey opened last weekend's show doing an instant classic sketch as Clinton and GOP veep wannabe Sarah Palin. Poehler is up for her first Emmy this weekend for her SNL work. Her nomination, for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, is the first individual nod for an SNL performer since Will Ferrell turned up in a variety category in 2001.

 

SELENA AND TAYLOR: LOOKING FOR PRINCE CHARMING [E! Online, 9/17/08]

Prince Charming was on everyone's minds yesterday at the premiere of Selena Gomez's new movie, Another Cinderella Story. In the direct-to-DVD musical, Gomez plays a modern-day Cinderella who falls for the new hottie (Drew Seeley) at her high school. If you don't know by now, Gomez is reportedly dating Nick Jonas. So let's just hope he's got what Gomez says she looks for in a real-life Prince Charming: "Someone who is honest, someone who can make me smile like no other and somebody I can have fun with." Popping up at the premiere at the Grove mall in Los Angeles was Gomez's pal and rumored-to-be Joe Jonas' girlfriend (yeah, it's a full-time job keeping up with these kids!) Taylor Swift. Among her Prince Charming requirements are "good hair," "quiet confidence" and a "great laugh." Sure sounds like Joe to us. Meanwhile, Gomez said the person to beat on the new Dancing With the Stars is her pal Kim Kardashian. "I will be voting nonstop," Gomez said with a laugh. "I definitely think she will win. There's no competition." Gomez already has her tickets for DWTS' Sept. 24 show. "I'm so excited," she said. "I can't wait." So where were the Jonas Brothers yesterday during the premiere? Across town in Universal City at the City of Hope benefit for cancer research. Who'd they perform with? Nick's ex-girlfriend, Miley Cyrus.

 

HUGH HEFNER: SPINOFFS FOR ALL HIS GIRLS! [E! Online, 9/17/08]

Rumours have been circulating that The Girls Next Door star Kendra Wilkinson is getting a spinoff here at E! because she's moving out of the Playboy Mansion, but Hugh Hefner has a surprise for you. While he won't confirm anything about Wilkinson, Hefner says, "I think all three girls are likely to get spinoffs. I think they will be interconnected to the main show, and we will all appear on both." For now, however, Hef, Wilkinson and his two other girlfriends, Holly Madison and Bridget Marquardt, have other things to think about, like the Oct. 5 premiere of season five of GND. Even Hefner is amazed at how successful the show has become. "It's amazing. We're about to launch season five," he said, adding, "We thought it would be a one-season wonder." How wrong they were. Season-five highlights include Hefner's birthday celebration in Las Vegas, a trip to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, a visit with legendary Playmate Barbi Benton in Aspen and a wedding in Las Vegas. No, it's not Hefner saying "I do" to one of the girls, as some bloggers have speculated. And while we're on the subject of rumours, Hefner also shoots down the recent one about Madison supposedly leaving him for Mindfreak illusionist Criss Angel. But being the businessman that he is, Hefner really doesn't mind what seems like around-the-clock gossip. "All the rumours are only going to give us more ratings," he said. He does promise that if anything changes between him and any of the girls "all of that will be on the show, because this show, unlike most, really is a reality show. It deals with our lives and wherever that takes us." But it doesn't sound like it's taking him to the chapel anytime soon. Hefner said with a laugh, "I'm still working through the last one."

 

SCARLETT JOHANSSON CALLS FOR RECYCLING [Aceshowbiz, 9/17/08]

Scarlett Johansson wants you to get in the spirit of recycling your cell phones. Seriously. Playing off posters for Johansson's upcoming comic-book thriller The Spirit, the Environmental Media Association and Lionsgate studio have created PSAs encouraging folks to recycle their used cell phones. The ads feature one of the movie's taglines, "Answer the call!" The magazine ads—first appearing in People on Friday—will also include Johansson's costar Eva Mendes. EMA's goal is to lower the amount of carbon dioxide emissions created by the production of new phones. This isn't the only good deed Johansson has been up to recently. She just completed a four-day visit to Rwanda, where she visited AIDS clinics with (RED),  Bono and Bobby Shriver's initiative to raise money for women and children affected by AIDS in Africa.

 

BRITNEY'S LEGAL TEAM FANS OUT [Aceshowbiz, 9/17/08]

If it were her prerogative, you'd think Britney Spears would have downed her lingering legal woes faster than a Frappuccino. But the wheels of justice move slowly, and the pop princess has other things to concern her. While Spears plots her latest comeback—her new album Circus is coming to town Dec. 2, her 27th birthday—her army of lawyers deployed to various courthouses in Southern California today to attempt to tidy up her docket. First up, attorneys representing Spears and her temporary conservatorship overseen in part by father Jamie turned up in downtown Los Angeles to meet behind closed doors to haggle over legal bills stemming from the case. "Lawyers for [Britney] were in chambers for about an hour and a half. Two items were filed but sealed," a court clerk tells E! News. No word on exactly what financial matters were being debated. The bills have piled up in recent months, however, with her lawyer, Laura Wasser, alone seeking as much as $100,000 for representing Spears during the last three months ($33, 037.19 for June and July and $60,075 for work performed in August). Spears did not attend the session. The next court date in the matter is set for Sept. 25, 2008. Nearly 20 miles away in Van Nuys, meanwhile, a pretrial hearing was scheduled with regard to her misdemeanor charge of driving with an invalid license. Earlier this month, Superior Court Judge James A. Steele refused Spears' petition to dismiss the year-old charge, leaving the door open to a trial which could start as early as October.

 

ARRAIGNMENT COMES UP EMPTY FOR ANDY DICK [Aceshowbiz, 9/17/08]

Andy Dick's defense team was left speechless today. With his lawyers primed to enter a plea in Riverside, Calif., in the comedian's battery/public intoxication/Xanax-and-pot-possession case, both sides instead found themselves on the receiving end of a schedule change. Dick's arraignment has been delayed until Oct. 3, 2008 "as a result of a miscommunication between defense counsel and prosecutors regarding plea negotiations,” a court public information officer told E! News Tuesday, September 16. "The miscommunication will be cleared up by the next court date," he added, speaking on behalf of the Riverside County District Attorney's Office. Dick was charged last month with four misdemeanor counts of battery, public intoxication, possession of Xanax without a prescription and possession of marijuana in connection with his July 16 arrest in Murietta, Calif., after he was spotted urinating in a restaurant parking lot and a teenage girl accused him of groping her. While the former News Radio star was originally booked on suspicion of felony sexual battery, the D.A. ultimately concluded that, based on the "evidence presented and the recommendations of the police agency that made the arrest," the less-punishable charges fit the bill.

 

LEONARDO DiCAPRIO AND BAR REFAELI PARTYING SEPARATELY, SPARK BREAK UP RUMOURS [Aceshowbiz, 9/17/08]

Hollywood couple Leonardo DiCaprio and Bar Refaeli spark break up rumour yet again after they were reported to have been seen partying separately. While the movie hunk was at Butter restaurant owner Richie Akiva's birthday party at N.Y.C.'s 1Oak, she was seen partying in Las Vegas at the grand opening of LAVO. In Touch Weekly which speculated on their split quoted its insider as saying, Bar "kept saying she needed to meet a hot guy" during the event. She kept saying "she was on the prowl." A witness even claimed "Bar was having a blast." Onlooker who witnessed Leo at Akiva's birthday bash testified the actor "kept calling it a great boys' night." He was seen talking to everyone at the party and "taking shots of Grey Goose." Adding fuel to the break up rumour, Leo is said to have "been a fixture on the nightlife scene recently." Both Leo and Bar have yet given their statements about the break up rumour, which isn't the first for the couple who began dating in 2006. They were last reported to have ended their relationship in October last year. The report was proven false as they were seen together after that.

 

FRIEND AND REP DENY MILEY CYRUS DATING JUSTIN GASTON [Aceshowbiz, 9/17/08]

Much contrary to the mounting speculation, a representative and friend of Miley Cyrus deny she's dating underwear model Justin Gaston, whom she's been spotted with during the weekend. Both her representative and friend insist she and Justin are just friends and nothing more. Miley and Justin sparked dating rumors after they were seen walking hand-in-hand, heading for Sunday service at a church in Pasadena, California on September 14. The male model even was spotted later that day watching her performance at Disney's Concert for Hope. A representative for Miley previously told People magazine that Justin is "a friend from Nashville." His representative added, the hunk "is visiting L.A. for the week", while a source close to Miley said the Disney star and Justin have "been spending a lot of time together while he's in town." Despite the sketchy details of the status of their relationship, Miley and Justin added fuel to the dating rumours as they followed up their Sunday dates with a visit to L.A.'s Century City mall Monday, September 15. E! Online quoted its source as claiming to have seen them "holding hands the whole time" during the outing. But, according to Miley's friend she and Justin "are just good friends." The friend continued, "I doubt her parents would approve of her dating someone five years older than her anyway." Miley's representative confirmed that the dating rumors are not true. No direct comment just yet from either Miley or Justin.

 

JON STEWART TO HONOR CARLIN AT THE KENNEDY CENTER [AP, 9/16/08]

Jon Stewart, Bill Maher and Margaret Cho are among an all-star lineup of entertainers who will honor the late comedian George Carlin at this year's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The prize was announced just before Carlin's death in June. It will be awarded during a tribute performance November 10, 2008 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington. The program announced Tuesday, September 16 will be aired later on PBS stations. Others who will honor Carlin include Garry Shandling, Lily Tomlin, Denis Leary, Joan Rivers, Lewis Black and Richard Belzer. The prize is being awarded posthumously for the first time in its 11-year history. Last year the Kennedy Center honored Billy Crystal., Bill Maher and Margaret Cho are among an all-star lineup of entertainers who will honor the late comedian George Carlin at this year's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The prize was announced just before Carlin's death in June. It will be awarded during a tribute performance November 10, 2008 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington. The program announced Tuesday, September 16 will be aired later on PBS stations. Others who will honor Carlin include Garry Shandling, Lily Tomlin, Denis Leary, Joan Rivers, Lewis Black and Richard Belzer. The prize is being awarded posthumously for the first time in its 11-year history. Last year the Kennedy Center honored Billy Crystal., Bill Maher and Margaret Cho are among an all-star lineup of entertainers who will honor the late comedian George Carlin at this year's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The prize was announced just before Carlin's death in June. It will be awarded during a tribute performance November 10, 2008 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington. The program announced Tuesday, September 16 will be aired later on PBS stations. Others who will honor Carlin include Garry Shandling, Lily Tomlin, Denis Leary, Joan Rivers, Lewis Black and Richard Belzer. The prize is being awarded posthumously for the first time in its 11-year history. Last year the Kennedy Center honored Billy Crystal., Bill Maher and Margaret Cho are among an all-star lineup of entertainers who will honor the late comedian George Carlin at this year's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The prize was announced just before Carlin's death in June. It will be awarded during a tribute performance November 10, 2008 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington. The program announced Tuesday, September 16 will be aired later on PBS stations. Others who will honor Carlin include Garry Shandling, Lily Tomlin, Denis Leary, Joan Rivers, Lewis Black and Richard Belzer. The prize is being awarded posthumously for the first time in its 11-year history. Last year the Kennedy Center honored Billy Crystal., Bill Maher and Margaret Cho are among an all-star lineup of entertainers who will honor the late comedian George Carlin at this year's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The prize was announced just before Carlin's death in June. It will be awarded during a tribute performance November 10, 2008 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington. The program announced Tuesday, September 16 will be aired later on PBS stations. Others who will honor Carlin include Garry Shandling, Lily Tomlin, Denis Leary, Joan Rivers, Lewis Black and Richard Belzer. The prize is being awarded posthumously for the first time in its 11-year history. Last year the Kennedy Center honored Billy Crystal., Bill Maher and Margaret Cho are among an all-star lineup of entertainers who will honor the late comedian George Carlin at this year's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The prize was announced just before Carlin's death in June. It will be awarded during a tribute performance November 10, 2008 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington. The program announced Tuesday, September 16 will be aired later on PBS stations. Others who will honor Carlin include Garry Shandling, Lily Tomlin, Denis Leary, Joan Rivers, Lewis Black and Richard Belzer. The prize is being awarded posthumously for the first time in its 11-year history. Last year the Kennedy Center honored Billy Crystal., Bill Maher and Margaret Cho are among an all-star lineup of entertainers who will honor the late comedian George Carlin at this year's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The prize was announced just before Carlin's death in June. It will be awarded during a tribute performance November 10, 2008 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington. The program announced Tuesday, September 16 will be aired later on PBS stations. Others who will honor Carlin include Garry Shandling, Lily Tomlin, Denis Leary, Joan Rivers, Lewis Black and Richard Belzer. The prize is being awarded posthumously for the first time in its 11-year history. Last year the Kennedy Center honored Billy Crystal.

 

SELENA GOMEZ NOT AGAINST DATING ROCK STARS, REVEALS HER DREAM MAN [Aceshowbiz, 9/16/08]

Still keeping her lips sealed about rumors that she's dating Nick Jonas, Selena Gomez however has stated that she isn't against dating rock stars. She and her actress friend Jennifer Stone were quizzed by OK! magazine about the men of their dreams. And while Jennifer admitted to like "the shabby-looking guys, like Johnny Depp and Emile Hirsch", Selena said she likes a guy who's shy and creative. Jennifer then continued telling OK! "And I'm always attracted to actors - it's not good, but, hey, at least it's not rock stars!" Selena was quick to react on Jennifer's reference to rock stars, telling OK! she doesn't rule out dating rock stars. Not making straight reference to her alleged romance with Nick, she simply insisted "no, I'm not. I'm going to say that - no I'm not" when being asked if she definitely is against having rock stars as boyfriends. Personal life aside, Selena has been busy promoting her straight to DVD movie "Another Cinderella Story". She was seen attending its premiere at the Grove Pacific Theaters in Los Angeles on Sunday, September 14. Meeting the press and a throng of fans, Selena was quoted as saying that aside from her role in the film, in real life she's looking forward to date "someone who is honest, someone who can make me smile like no other and somebody I can have fun with."

 

CONFIRMED, MARK RONSON AND DAISY LOWE SPLIT UP [Aceshowbiz, 9/16/08]

Amidst reports that Mark Ronson and Daisy Lowe have split up, a representative for the English fashion model has confirmed the couple are no longer together. "Yes it's true. They've split," her spokeswoman stated. "However, this is a private matter between Daisy and Mark. There is nothing more to add." The Daily Mirror which broke the news reported that the pair decided to end their relationship after a heated argument in New York last week, during which Daisy is believed to have told the musician she "had enough" and was leaving him. To that Mark reportedly simply told her, "Fine, leave." The twosome have since then had no contact. No words on the reason for their split, but rumor has it, their separation was triggered by their 14-year age gap. "Daisy is a girl about town just finding her feet on the party scene and loving every minute of it. She is still a teenager and although she's got a wise head on her shoulders, she's still a very young woman," a source revealed. "But Mark is the opposite. He's at a very different stage in his life. He's 33 now and although he enjoys the party lifestyle he's looking to settle down and Daisy isn't ready for that." Mark and Daisy were due to fly back together to the U.K., where she's been booked to appear in a number of catwalk shows at London Fashion Week. But, it has been reported that Daisy was seen boarding the plane alone and was met by her mother Pearl Lowe. In the wake of the break up report, it has been claimed that Daisy has rekindled her romance with an ex-boyfriend Will Cameron and was seen heading back to his place in Baker Street on Sunday night, September 14 after attending a London Fashion Week show. Mark split from Daisy during a public appearance on the U.K. premiere of "Righteous Kill" in London on Sunday.

 

JONAS BROTHERS MAD ABOUT HALO, HAVE THEIR OWN XBOX LIVE ACCOUNTS [Aceshowbiz, 9/16/08]

Rarely having time to play around in between their hectic schedule, Jonas Brothers find online gaming as fun and they reportedly are mad about Halo. Actor David Henrie has revealed to People at Nintendo's 20th anniversary celebration in New York on Saturday, September 13 that they even have their own Xbox Live accounts. "They have different gamer tags," Henrie said, adding "people have no idea it's them." Revealing more about the threesome's favorite game, he told People "Halo's fun. It's a good game." Befriending the singing sensations, Henrie openly admitted to have been thinking that video games are good for Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas, and Kevin Jonas for the games can help them interacting with the outside world taking into account that their celebrity status has made it difficult for them "to interact socially." "They've got a bodyguard with them 24/7," Henrie reasoning. "You just go to someone's house, and you just hang out at their house. You actually get to be with them." Kevin, Joe and Nick, in the meantime, are having a very full plate on their agenda. They were seen on Sunday, September 14 making an appearance at the Gibson Amphitheater at Universal Studios for a charity concert event. They greeted their many fans there and even signed autographs.

 

PITT AND JOLIE "MOST POWERFUL ACTOR AND ACTRESS" [Aceshowbiz, 9/15/08]

Before Guinness World Records 2009 Edition hit the shelves on Wednesday, September 17, their 2009 list of top celebrities has been unveiled and among those inscribed in are Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. The Hollywood power couple has been dubbed Most Powerful Actor and Actress respectively. Taking the ultimate titles, Pitt ended Tom Cruise's reign, while Jolie pushed off last year topper Jennifer Aniston. Apart from Pitt and Jolie, former pop princess Britney Spears has been named the Most Searched Person on the Internet. Following her personal turmoil and recent turnaround with winning the Best Female Video, Best Pop Video and Video of the Year at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards, the 26-year-old has taken the crown from last year's winner, Paris Hilton. Furthermore, the list also includes actor Christopher Lee for Most Connected Living Actor since he has more links to other stars, "Lost" for the Most Downloaded Television Series, Amy Winehouse for Most Grammy Awards Won by a British Female Act in a Single Year, and director Tim Burton and actor Johnny Depp for Most Lucrative Hollywood Movie Partnership. The most powerful categories has been determined by Guinness officials grounding on several factors, including Internet searches and financial earnings.

 

BRITNEY SPEARS ROMANCING CO-WORKER RUSSELL BRAND [Aceshowbiz, 9/15/08]

Britney Spears is struck with on-set romance after she is reportedly falling for Russell Brand who did a promotional video with her for this year's MTV Video Music Awards. Words on the block, Brand dumped his actress girlfriend Teresa Palmer to be with Spears. Sources claimed to have seen the two having an intimate dinner at Little Red Door in Hollywood on Friday, September 12. They arrived and left the restaurant separately to avoid paparazzi from taking snaps. No confirmation has been dug out of this, but Brand had made it clear that he is "footloose and fancy free" after ending his three months relationship with Palmer earlier this month. Ironically, a couple of months ago, Brand said publicly that Palmer had fulfilled his sexual appetite and made him a "changed man". Brand, a British comedian, was signed to host the MTV Video Music Awards and is tipped to return for the role next year. Britney, won big at the September 7, 2008 event, taking home three statuettes for her video of "Piece of Me".

 

BRITNEY SPEARS TO LAUNCH COMEBACK ALBUM AT LAS VEGAS CASINO [Aceshowbiz, 9/15/08]

Britney Spears will reportedly head up to Las Vegas for a New Year's spectacular live show. "They are cooking up the idea of making a big bold statement by making her comeback on New Year's Eve," says an insider. The rumour continues floating with a claim that Britney will take the stage at Pearl theater in the Sin City shortly before midnight with companionship from burlesque dancers, fireworks and special effects. Following the New Year's show, she then will embark on a world tour to continue promoting her upcoming album, which will reportedly be available for purchase on Christmas. Speaking of the project, the insider says that the gig is "going to be the hottest ticket on the planet." However, Britney's camp refuse to give their comment referring to the issue. Elsewhere, after awarded three prizes at MTV's annual Video Music Awards ceremony on September 7, 2008, Britney is named as the "Greatest Comeback Ever" for her big night at the MTV's show, according to OnePoll. On top of that, Guinness World Records have placed her as the "Most Searched Person on the Internet", beating last year's winner Paris Hilton.

 

MILEY CYRUS TAKING UNDERWEAR MODEL TO CHURCH [Aceshowbiz, 9/15/08]

Disney star Miley Cyrus is spotted walking hand-in-hand with model Justin Gaston on her way to church. Following the service, the 15-year-old "Hannah Montana" star then grabs lunch together with the man at Pasadena's Cheesecake Factory.  The scene generates speculations that the two are romantically linked, especially with the fact that the "7 Things" singer has broken up from ex-boyfriend Nick Jonas of Jonas Brothers. Neither Miley nor Justin has given their statements concerning the rumour though. Speaking of Justin, he originated from Pineville, Louisiana, but now resides in Los Angeles. He left his home town at age 17 to pursue a singing career while supporting himself as a part-time underwear model. Most recently, Justin plays Taylor Swift's love interest in the country singer's "Love Story" music video in support of her upcoming second album, "Fearless", which is due for release on November 11, 2008.

 

JENNIFER LOPEZ THRIVING IN HER FIRST TRIATHLON [Aceshowbiz, 9/15/08]

Jennifer Lopez has completed her first ever triathlon. Competing at the Nautica Malibu Triathlon in Malibu, California on Sunday, September 14, the 39-year-old has successfully finished the race in 2 hours, 23 minutes and 38.8 seconds and what made it even better, through her participation, she has raised $127,000 benefiting Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Expressing her excitement upon crossing the finish line, she thanked the supporting crowd saying, "Thank you guys so much. This is an amazing day." She then added, "I feel really great and so glad I finished and that I made it out of the water but more amazing than that, I feel really great that we raised $127,000 for the Children's Hospital [Los Angeles] and hopefully it'll go to good use." Throughout the sporting event which includes swimming, cycling and running, the actress/singer was cheered on from the sideline by her husband, Marc Anthony. Along the way, she was also accompanied by her trainer Gunnar Peterson. Aside from Lopez, another celebrity took part in the race was her "The Wedding Planner" co-star, Matthew McConaughey. He finished the triathlon in 1 hour, 30 minutes and 44.7 seconds.  Lopez has announced her plan to participate earlier on Good Morning America. At the time, she revealed, "[The idea] came up when I was eight months pregnant, when I was beached like a whale. I was watching TV, and I saw a triathlon and I said, 'I think I could do that. Maybe we could raise some money and do something really great.'"

 

BRITNEY THROWS HER BOYS A BIRTHDAY PARTY [E! Online, 9/15/08]

Start your engines! Sources tell E! News that Britney Spears threw her boys, Sean Preston and Jayden James, a joint truck-themed birthday party on Saturday, September 13. Sister Jamie Lynn and her 2-month-old daughter, Maddie, were in attendance along with approximately 50 other guests. Saturday was Sean Preston's actual 3rd birthday; Jayden turned 2 on Friday. The birthday boys and their little friends drove around in mini toy cars with personalized license plates. Britney was dressed casually in jeans and a green top, and was spotted watching the kids enjoying their new rides. The party started at 2 p.m. at the Beverly Hills home of Dr. 90210 plastic surgeon Paul Nassif and Adrienne Maloof, sister of Brit's good friends Phil and George Maloof, owners of the Palms Casino. The mansion is situated in the gated community of Beverly Park.

 

JOLIE-PITTS DONATE $2 MILLION TO CREATE ETHIOPIAN HEALTH CENTER [E! Online, 9/15/08]

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt may have newborn twins and four other children to care for, but that doesn't stop them from looking after hundreds of thousands of children in Ethiopia, too. The Jolie-Pitt Foundation made a $2 million donation to the Global Health Committee on Saturday, September 13 to create a center for AIDS- and tuberculosis-affected children in Ethiopia. The center will be named after the couple's daughter Zahara, 3, who was adopted from the African nation in 2005. "It is our hope when Zahara is older, she will take responsibility of the clinic and continue its mission," Pitt said in a statement announcing the donation. Ethiopia has the seventh highest rate of tuberculosis in the world and an estimated 1.7 million people who are infected with HIV. The new clinic will be modeled after the Maddox Chivan Children's Center in Cambodia, named after the eldest Jolie-Pitt child and established in 2006. "Our goal is to transfer the success we have had in Cambodia to Ethiopia, where people are needlessly dying of tuberculosis, a curable disease, and HIV/AIDS, a treatable disease," said Jolie in the statement. Anne Goldfeld, cofounder of the Global Health Committee, said, "The Jolie-Pitt gift will allow us to deliver care and ease the great suffering caused by TB and AIDS with what we know works right now, while we continue scientific discovery to improve prevention and treatment of these diseases in the future."

 

GEORGE TAKEI MARRIES LONGTIME PARTNER BRAD ALTMAN [AP, 9/15/08]

George Takei and his longtime partner, Brad Altman, have agreed to live long and prosper together. Takei, 71, and Altman, 54, were married Sunday, September 14 in a multicultural ceremony at the Japanese National Museum that featured a Buddhist priest, Native American wedding bands, a Japanese Koto harp and a bagpipe procession. The couple, together for 21 years, was the first to receive a marriage license in West Hollywood when the state began granting licenses to gay couples on June 17. The "Star Trek" star and his manager plan to honeymoon in Argentina and Peru.

 

JENNIFER HUDSON IS ENGAGED! [E! Online, 9/15/08]

Has a Dreamgirl finally found her dream guy? Oscar-winner Jennifer Hudson is engaged to her boyfriend of less than a year, David Otunga, sources confirm to E! News.  "I can confirm that Jennifer got engaged to her boyfriend David on Friday night, September 12 in L.A." says Hudson's rep to People magazine. Otunga, 28, proposed on Hudson's 27th birthday with a Neil Lane diamond ring. The former lawyer and 2006 Harvard Law School grad is best-known as "Punk" from VH-1's I Love New York 2. 

 

JERMAINE DUPRI SUED OVER PRIVATE PHONE CALL RECORDING [Aceshowbiz, 9/14/08]

Jermaine Dupri has been accused by a woman named Aika Kendrick for illegally recording her private phone call conversation which was then used as a backdrop for Daz Dillinger's song, titled "The One". Being humiliated with the call's publication, she had reportedly called for a complaint to Jermaine but it was subsequently ignored. Due to this, Aika sues the rap mogul on the grounds of "negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress and copyright infringement" and asks the rapper to pay her $250,000 as a compensation for the claimed damages. Furthermore, also named in the suit are the "The One" singer and Virgin Records, who, regardless her objection, continue to make copies of the album. Neither Daz nor Jermaine has commented on the incident. Elsewhere, Jermaine has revealed his support towards Britney Spears by saying that Britney will make a good music with any producer that she picks up. "She doesn't need a producer, she is good," the Def Jam producer explains. "She and Danger and Timbaland and whoever did her last record, they sound perfect together."

 

JENNIFER LOPEZ OUT OF RUNWAY, STILL ON FOR TRIATHLON [E! Online, 9/14/08]

Just call her superwoman. For the last two days or so, Jennifer Lopez has had to take a timeout from her training for this weekend's Nautica Malibu Triathlon because of an ankle injury, but that's not stopping her from doing the race. "She had a slight injury," Lopez's rep tells me, adding, "She will definitely be doing the triathlon. She does not want to let down her charity and all the people who have supported her." However, she did skip out as celebrity judge at today's taping of the Project Runway finale. Project Runway's very own Tim Gunn filled Lopez's shoes, making it the first time he's ever judged the designers. (Access Hollywood first reported Lopez's cancellation.) What's been the reaction? Well... "Tim Gunn stepped in to the rescue and RUNWAY fans who've always dreamed of seeing Sir Tim judge are going to get their wish," Runway executive producer Andy Cohen blogged earlier today at BravoTV.com. "It was a great morning." Now, back to the triathlon, which benefits Children's Hospital Los Angeles. Lopez has been blogging about her efforts on Self magazine's website. "Working out and getting back into shape isn't exciting to me but training for a triathlon is," she has said. "There's a goal at the end of it, something to reach for."

 

MICHAEL LOHAN'S DUBIOUS BABY-DADDY REDUX [E! online, 9/14/08]

Here we go again! The Michael Lohan paternity saga continues... Does Lindsay Lohan have a new little half-sister... Or not? In an effort to answer that question, Daddy Michael says he offered to fly the woman he had a brief affair with in the mid '90s out to California, where Michael is staying while working on a charity benefit for his church, to finally have that much talked about DNA test. But Kristi Kauffman has so far not accepted Michael's offer to fly out with her now 13-year-old daughter, Ashley. "If she's so eager to prove I'm the father, why wouldn't she come out and get it over with," Michael said. "It's at no expense to her. I've offered to pay for everything. She just needs to get on a plane." Michael, whose father passed away late last month, says Kristi served him papers at his father's wake, demanding retroactive child support payments. But Michael says he doesn't have to pay unless a DNA test proves he's the dad. "If I'm her father, I'll do what's right," Michael said. "But I won't know that for sure until a test by an independent laboratory says so." Earlier, the two sides said they would go to a laboratory chosen by a family court judge in the case. But Michael now says it does not have to be a court-appointed lab, just one that both sides can consider to be "independent." 

 

DANIEL DAE KIM COPS TO DUI, LOSES LICENSE [E! Online, 9/13/08]

Whatever fate may be, Daniel Dae Kim wants the remainder of his stay in Hawaii to be relatively smooth. The Lost star pleaded no contest to DUI charges Friday, September 12 in Honolulu stemming from his Oct. 25, 2007, arrest after a cop spotted him driving erratically and pulled him over. For his misdemeanor offenses, Kim's license has been suspended for six months and he was ordered to perform 72 hours of community service and pay a $500 fine and $212 in court fees. "You need to understand that 0.168 [his blood-alcohol level at the time of his arrest] is more that double the legal limit," District Judge William Cardwell told Kim in court. "It means you were seriously impaired. And it just cannot happen again. It's simply too dangerous." "Believe me, sir, I do [understand]," Kim responded. "I'm just grateful and relieved that this matter has been resolved," the 40-year-old actor told reporters after the hearing. "It's been a pretty difficult time for my family and me. But I'm glad I had a chance to take responsibility for my mistake."

 

SELENA GOMEZ'S CINDERELLA LIPLOCK [E! Online, 9/13/08]

Selena Gomez is kissing and telling! No, not about her maybe-boyfriend Nick Jonas. In her latest flick, Another Cinderella Story (out Sept. 16), she locks lips with her costar, Drew Seeley (above). Gomez plays a girl who falls for a popular singer (Seeley) enrolled at their school, Beverly Hills High. It took about 10 takes to get the kiss right... "You know, for me, it was a job, and for him as well, too," Gomez, 16, tells me. "But I'm not complaining. He's not bad to look at." She did pull some prankin' on Seeley just before the smackaroos. "He hates pickles and I love pickles, so I'd eat some pickles," she says with a laugh. This isn't Gomez's onscreen smooching debut. Kissing costars started when she was just 12 years old. "It was on The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, and I got to kiss one of the twins," says Gomez, who will be celebrating her new movie on Sunday with a screening at the Grove mall in L.A. "And then on my show [Wizards of Waverly Place], my character has kissed maybe four or five guys. So this wasn't my first."

 

GWEN STEFANI RAISES THE BAR FOR "W HOTELS" [E! Online, 9/13/08]

Gwen Stefani is adding a new initial to her L.A.M.B. empire. The smokin' songstress has hooked up with W Hotels to design uniforms for the posh chain's female bar staff. Ladies toiling away in the hotels' Living Room lounges across the country will suit up in L.A.M.B.'s wash-and-wear black jersey minidresses—with diagonal stitch detailing and a fitted, '80s-chic vibe—starting in December or early next year, per WWD.com. “I wanted to design a super cute dress that I would be excited to have in my own closet and approached it in the same way I think about my clothing for a tour," Stefani said. "We’ve designed a sexy and comfortable outfit for these women to wear out on their own stage every night." Stefani's style aesthetic should go smashingly with the Michael Kors-designed separates sported by other W Hotel employees.

 

NEW IDOL JUDGE: WHY WOULD THEY GET RID OF PAULA? [E! Online, 9/13/08]

"Why would they get rid of Paula, who everybody loves, and put some person who no one's ever heard of in her place? Sounds a little crazy. Sounds like someone had a little too much to drink that night when they made that decision." —Kara Dioguardi, dismissing rumors she was brought on American Idol to replace Paula, though entertainment writer Spike Feresten has some theories: "Paula is just loopy."

 

KANYE'S IN HAWAII, HASN'T LEI'D DOWN WITH MAC YET [E! Online, 9/13/08]

Kanye West is in Hawaii now, maybe working, maybe relaxing on some beach. Either way, he's got his trusty Mac with him—not to mention the same hoodie he was sporting yesterday—and he seems to be gearing up to write the blog post to end all blog posts. But since we haven't heard from him yet, we can still only speculate as to what prompted his showdown with the paparazzi Thursday morning at Los Angeles International Airport. The cops, for one, sure don’t know. "I have no idea," Sgt. Jim Holcomb of the L.A. Police Department's Airport Division told E! News Friday when asked what provoked the incident. "I didn’t know who he [Kanye] was until the day this happened." "You saw the tape, I have no idea what set him off," Holcomb continued. "I've got nothing left, nothing to add here. I got like 3,000 phone calls. There's nothing more to add until they go to court." Well, he sure won't be forgetting Kanye West anytime soon. West is due in court Oct. 2 to answer to a felony vandalism charge for allegedly smashing a TMZ shutterbug's camera after getting into it with a few photogs in the American Airlines terminal at LAX, where he was waiting to board a flight to Honolulu. He was released shortly before 1 p.m. on $20,000 bail and promptly headed for Van Nuys Airport, figuring he'd had enough of flying commercial for the day. Since then, the laptop-savvy "Good Life"artist has only offered up a taste of what's to come, blogging early this morning: "We back in the lab!!! I'm cool with the paparazzi. This guy wasn't cool. I gotta work now…I'll rant later."

 

BEHIND THE MUSIC - A LIBERACE BIOPIC [E! Online, 9/13/08]

Steven Soderbergh has begun developing a biopic of Liberace that he plans to direct with Michael Douglas as the ivory tickler, according to Variety ; Matt Damon is in talks as his litigious ex-lover. With a screenplay by Richard LaGravenese (The Fisher King, The Horse Whisperer), the film would focus on the legendary entertainer's flamboyant yet closeted life, including his showdown with onetime paramour Scot Thorson, who successfully sued for palimony shortly before Liberace died of AIDS in 1987.

 

T.I.'s BABY MAMA SUES FOR CHILD SUPPORT [E! Online, 9/13/08]

Big lawsuits are poppin' for T.I. The Atlanta-based rapper has been hit up by the mother of his two boys, who claims she can't raise them on the $2,000 a month he's currently giving her. In a lawsuit filed in Fulton County Superior Court, 29-year-old Lashon Dixon alleges she and the 27-year-old rapper (whose real name is Clifford Joseph Harris) have known each other since their teen years, long before he established himself as the multiplatinum-selling "King of the South." The two never married but had a pair of sons, ages 7 and 8. Per the complaint, Dixon is seeking a court order upping his monthly checks commensurate with the millions he's now earning from his album sales and a burgeoning business empire that includes a film unit and a clothing line. T.I.'s publicist at Atlantic Records could not be reached for comment. The palimony suit is the latest legal headache for the MC, who also has two sons with his fiancée, Tameka "Tiny" Cottle, a member of the defunct R&B band Xscape. Earlier this year, the performer pleaded guilty to federal weapons charges for attempting to purchase illegal guns from an undercover agent. He was sentenced to a year in jail, which he will serve once he completes 1,000 hours of community service. T.I. most recently performed at last week's 2008 MTV Video Music Awards. He is set to drop his latest album, Paper Trail, on Sept. 30, 2008. The lead single, "Whatever You Like," topped Billboard's Hot 100 chart after its release in July.

 

QUEEN LATIFAH HOPES TO "MESS FANS' HEAD" WITH "L" WORD [Acehowbiz, 9/13/08]

In a recent interview, Queen Latifah admits that she considers to call her upcoming eight studio album "The L Word". Asked for the reason, Latifah says that she wants to "mess with people's heads" concerning the latest rumor saying that she is a lesbian and has an affair with Laila Ali. Instead of busting the rumor, Latifah says jokingly that the "L" word can stand for "love" or, just as what people think, "lesbian". She explains as saying, "L was gonna stand for love though or La. Since people want to play games, I like to jab back sometimes just for fun." For her future project, the New Jersey singer states that she will return to her rap root by working with LL Cool J and Dr. Dre. "Dre helped me write some stuff. He wrote some stuff with me and Ludacris wrote a record for me," Latifah says.  Speaking of the theme in her upcoming album, she briefly explains that the topic will vary but it is mostly about love relationship. "Lyrically it covers a range of topics. A lot of love on there. People, dealing with people, how people do all kinds of things," she adds in a statement. Elsewhere, the star shares the big screen with Alicia Keys in a film titled "The Secret Life of Bees", which talks about Lily, played by Dakota Fanning, a young white girl who is taken in by three African-American sisters when she runs away from her controlling, emotionless father. The movie is scheduled to hit the theater on October 17, 2008.

 

MILEY CYRUS' RUMOURED BOYFRIEND CODY LINLEY SPEAKS OF THEIR RELATIONSHIP [Acehowbiz, 9/12/08]

Talks have been mounting that Miley Cyrus and Cody Linley are dating, but according to him they're just close friends. He opens up about their relationship to Life and Style magazine. Miley and Cody, who plays her on-screen flame on "Hannah Montana", sparked dating rumours after they were seen leaving his Los Angeles apartment late at night on September 2, 2008. The co-stars were snapped as he drove her away from his L.A. pad. At that time an onlooker said, "Cody opened the door of his Mustang for Miley, who had a huge smile on her face. She couldn't keep her eyes off him." Miley herself has previously expressed her crush on Cody, saying "He is so much fun to look at. He's really fun and down to earth. And he's hot!" In a recent interview with Life and Style magazine, Cody explained that the day when they were seen together at his apartment they, along with his roommate, "all painted", insisting "We splatter-painted. He went on telling the magazine that he and Miley are "very, very close, and there is a connection" adding "Yeah, I think that's all I can say." No words from Miley about her relationship with Cody, but it is widely believed that she began dating the boy after splitting from Jonas Brothers' Nick Jonas.

 

LAILA ALI GIVES BIRTH TO BABY BOY [Acehowbiz, 9/12/08]

Laila Ali is embracing the role of motherhood as she has given birth to a baby boy, her first child with husband Curtis Conway. In an announcement on her official website, dated Thursday, September 11, it is stated that the infant is named Curtis Muhammad Conway Jr. and was born on August 26, 2008. "He's a healthy baby boy who weighed 6.8 lbs. and measured 19 inches long. Mama and baby are resting," the statement read. Not going into further detail, the statement continued "Although mom and baby are both healthy and happy, there were some surprises during labor that altered Laila's birth plan." Laila married second hubby Curtis in July 2007 in Los Angeles. Confirming her pregnancy to Essence magazine back in March 2008, the female boxer said "I don't know yet if we are having a boy or a girl, but I'm excited that I have a life inside me that my husband and I created." In early June she shared details of her pregnancy to US Weekly, telling the publication she's having a boy. Revealing on a possible name, she said, "his name is going to be Curtis Jr. - after his father (Curtis Conway) - and Muhammad is the middle name." The middle name presumably is meant to honor her boxing great father Muhammad Ali. Curtis Muhammad Conway Jr. is the first child for Laila and the fourth for Curtis. The NFL player has twin sons and a daughter from a previous relationship.

 

POP STAR PINK TURNS TO SCIENTOLOGY FOR COMFORT [Acehowbiz, 9/12/08]

Rumour has it, Pink is turning to Scientology. Star magazine broke the report after being informed by spy witnesses that the pop singer is turning to the controversial religion to seek comfort following her divorce from hubby Carey Hart. Pink and Hart, a motocross racer, married in January 2006. They have been hit with divorce rumours several times before finally decided to go separate ways in February 2008. It appears that the split has affected Pink badly as she is said to have sought comfort from pal Juliette Lewis, who is introducing her to Scientology. "Pink is in the beginning stages of checking out the religion," a source told Star magazine. "But she has taken to it and she wants to get more involved." Fellow celebrities, including Kirstie Alley, Lisa Marie Presley, and Juliette Lewis, all of whom are devout Scientologists, have been instrumental in Pink's recent affiliation with the faith, the source claimed. Pink herself has yet commented on the report. She was last seen celebrating her 29th birthday at Madeo's Restaurant in Los Angeles on Monday night, September 8, 2008. The day before she attended the annual MTV Video Music Awards, for which she was also billed to perform.

 

KANYE WEST AND MANAGER RELEASED FROM JAIL [Acehowbiz, 9/12/08]

Kanye West and his road manager Don Crowley have been released from prison on Thursday evening, September 11 following their arrest in the morning after they were involved in an altercation with photographers at Los Angeles International Airport. The twosome were finally out of jail after posting $20,000. West and Crowley were waiting for a flight to Honolulu in the American Airlines terminal at about 7:51 A.M. when a photographer and videographer came along their way and started taking their pictures. West then grabbed the annoying video camera, throwing it to the ground, and smashing it. The video camera reportedly valued at more than $10,000. Another paparazzo, identified as Erik who's one of TMZ's camera guys, began videotaping the incident. It wasn't long before Crowley came up to grab his camera, throwing it to the floor and ultimately damaging it. A spokeswoman for the Los Angeles District Attorney's office has confirmed that while investigation is still ongoing, prosecutors have not yet decided whether to press charges. West, according to report, is due in court on Oct. 2, 2008. Representatives for him had not yet commented on the incident.

 

KIRSTEN DUNST LAUGHS OFF JUSTIN LONG ROMANCE RUMOURS [Acehowbiz, 9/12/08]

It turns out that rumours on Kirsten Dunst dating Justin Long are false as the actress has denied them. Gracing the cover of the October issue of Harper's Bazaar, she makes use an interview session with the publication to debunk the false reports, claiming the mounting dating rumors as "the funniest thing on planet Earth". Rumours on Dunst dating Long emerged in July 2008 after they were seen hanging out together in Soho. During the outing, they were said to be spotted holding hands and kissing. A friend of the actor confirmed that the duo were not dating, insisting they are good friends and she "is merely consoling him through his breakup" with Drew Barrymore. Contrary to the friend's statement, the rumored lovers were seen together again in late August. They were seen lunching at the Chateau Marmont. Notwithstanding with the dating rumors, Dunst insisted she's currently single and only met Long once. She told Harper's Bazaar, "I don't know him from Adam. I met him once and he and his friend were kind enough to walk me home. I've never seen him since." Though so, she didn't hesitate to start a family, openly admitting "I can't wait to have kids one day. I want to have kids and a farm with lots of animals on a lake." She went on telling the October issue of Harper's Bazaar, on newsstands now, "I'm happy single or not single. Everyone has to get to the point where they love themselves. Now I love me, so I'm okay."

 

OBAMA TO APPEAR ON "SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE" [AP, 9/12/08]

Oh how things have changed for Barack Obama since he last appeared on "Saturday Night Live." The Democratic presidential nominee's campaign revealed Thursday, September 11 that he would be making his second appearance on the program, for the season premiere this weekend. Also scheduled to appear is Olympic gold medal-winning swimmer Michael Phelps. Obama last appeared on the program in November 2007, making a cameo during an opening skit about a Halloween party at Hillary Rodham Clinton's house, where she was portrayed as the presumptive president. As it turned out, Obama defeated Clinton for the Democratic nomination. Obama's campaign said details of his new sketch were still being worked out.

 

PAMELA ANDERSON DONS BIKINI AND PLAYS VOLLEYBALL ON "DeGENERES SHOW" [Acehowbiz, 9/11/08]

Pamela Anderson rocks "The Ellen DeGeneres Show ", stripping down to her bikini and playing volleyball with the show's other guests. During her segment, the TV actress also addresses such issues, as her being reported to be dating Michael Jackson and her ex-husband Tommy Lee. First of all congratulating Ellen DeGeneres on her wedding with lesbian lover Portia de Rossi, Pammy then addressed on the rumours of her dating the King of Pop. " He just wants me to be in a video," so she said clearing up the dating rumors. And when Ellen kept on asking her "have you been hanging out with him?", Pammy didn't provide a direct answer, instead she claimed "it happens ... skin cancer and Vicodin. I don't know ... I have a lot of interesting friends." As the talk went on, Pammy also discussed on her other rumoured lover, a member of the Abu Dhabi royal family, before at last confirming that she's living with ex-hubby Tommy Lee again. When it came to the end of her segment, Pammy took her clothes off, stripping down to her bikini to play volleyball with Medal Olympic Volleyball duo, Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh.

 

LINDSAY LOHAN AND SAMANTHA RONSON TO MARRY BY END OF THIS YEAR [Acehowbiz, 9/11/08]

Becoming more vocal about their romance, Lindsay Lohan and Samantha Ronson are set to wed by the end of this year. The DJ has on Tuesday night, September 9, during a gig at a top Los Angeles nightclub, declared her love for the actress-singer, cryptically telling partygoers that she will wed her in the next sixth months. "By the end of this year, my love will be Mrs. Ronson," Samantha publicly announced from her mixing desk at the Chateau Marmont. She went on adding, "Tonight shows the power of a woman - to underestimate that is to underestimate the world." No official wedding date and venue just yet. Lindsay and Samantha's alleged lesbian romance has become talk of the town for months. They added fuel to the persistent lesbian rumours when they were photographed kissing outside the Mercer Hotel during an outing in New York City on Friday, September 5. Despite their silence over the many rumours on the street, Chateau Marmont regulars claim that the venue has become a frequent Friday night hang-out for the inseparable duo. According to club performer, identified as Raymond Aymond, "Samantha and Lindsay are the most in-love Hollywood couple I've ever seen. Every Friday night they come in here and do cheesy dancing."

 

SARAH McLACHLAN SPLITS FROM HUSBAND ASHWIN SOOD [Acehowbiz, 9/11/08]

The 11-year marriage of Sarah McLachlan and her husband Ashwin Sood is over. Pouring out her grieve, she shares her feeling with fans in new songs. Announcing her separation from the Canadian musician, she publicly stated "I'm separating from my husband" adding that her songs "U Want Me 2" and "Don't Give Up on Us" tell about her personal turmoil dealing with the failed marriage. McLachlan and Ashwin, the drummer in her band, have been married since February 1997. They are parents to two daughters; India Ann Sushil and Taja. The family currently reside in Vancouver. "I wasn't planning on saying anything," the songbird told Billboard.com on making public her separation from the father of her children. She then continued, "but it's gonna come out at some point. I haven't said anything about it because I've been terrified to, but I figure ... there's no good time to say it, so I just said it." McLachlan didn't elaborate on the reason for the split. She simply stated that she found the separation as "pretty gross". Relating her failed marriage with her new singles, McLachlan elaborated that "U Want Me 2" is about "that really uncertain, confusing place at the end of a relationship when there's no communication or closure, everything's still up in the air and there's a lot of anger and sadness. It's sort of that working through 'How do we move forward ... with some dignity and grace."

 

USHER'S WIFE TAMEKA FOSTER PREGNANT WITH CHILD No. 2 [Acehowbiz, 9/11/08]

Loving his role as a father for his son Usher Raymond V, R'n'B singer Usher is expecting his second child with wife Tameka Foster, it has been reported. There has yet official confirmation from the couple or their representatives on the report. Usher and Tameka, his stylist, wed in August 2007. They welcomed son Usher Raymond V, whose nickname is Cinco, in November the same year. The young boy is Usher's first child, while is the fourth for Tameka who has already had three other children from a previous marriage. Becoming a father for the first time, Usher has since often spoken publicly about how much he loves being a dad, telling People last month "I'm so proud to be a father by the time I'm 30." He jokingly added, "I'd hate to be 80 years old and not be able to run with my kids. I need to still be able to do flips when they're in high school!" Tameka, on the other hand, has been detailing to US Weekly on little Usher, informing the publication "he's like [a] hyper baby - he's crawling so fast!" She went on gushing, "he stands up, and he's walking around the table ... it's amazing to watch him. I've never seen a baby crawl so fast! I call him Dash, like on the Incredibles!" Tameka, as reported by People, was last seen attending Usher's Sept. 4 NFL kick-off concert in New York. At that time she was seen wearing what was claimed as "a belly-disguising outfit". An onlooker testified the dress she was seen wearing was "very deceiving" that people "couldn't tell she was pregnant when she was sitting down."

 

"PROJECT RUNWAY" PUTS JENNIFER LOPEZ AS GUEST JUDGE [Acehowbiz, 9/11/08]

As a big bang for the season finale, "Project Runway " has eyed Jennifer Lopez as a celebrity guest judge, US Magazine reports. The reality show will wrap up its fifth season in mid-October and serving the purpose, Lopez reportedly has been invited to shoot her episode this Friday. Previously one of the regular judges, Nina Garcia, hinted that the finale will be "unbelievable", adding that "the guest star is one of the most iconic women around. It's going to take the cake." Also, another judge Michael Kors commented that Lopez will be a suitable choice, saying "She is curious about what's new and what's next, but at the same time she knows how to edit perfectly for her look and lifestyle." Bravo TV that broadcast the show have not given their confirmation regarding this. Last season, the show brought forward Victoria Adams as the guest judge. Recently, it was reported that the sixth season will not arrive this November but in January next year. With the airing right shifted to Lifetime, the studio hope that the space will give them more time to promote the show.

 

JOSH HARTNETT FILES DEFAMATION LAWSUIT AGAINST DAILY MIRROR  [Acehowbiz, 9/11/08]

Responding to the Daily Mirror's claim that he was caught on CCTV while having sex with a random chick inside Soho Hotel's unlocked library, Josh Hartnett is taking the publication to the courthouse. His lawyers said the actor is seeking damages for defamation and demanding an apology from Daily Mirror for publishing the false report. His legal representatives even branded Daily Mirror's sex tape claim as "not only untrue but a complete fabrication, defamatory and unsubstantiated." The Daily Mirror ran a story earlier this month that Hartnett had sex with a random lady in Soho Hotel's library and the romp was caught on CCTV without him or the girl knowing.  Hartnett is currently in London preparing to star in a West End production of "Rain Man," which is due to open on September 19, 2008.

 

MISCHA BARTON DUMPS BOYFRIEND TAYLOR LOCKE [Acehowbiz, 9/11/08]

Mischa Barton is single again as she is reported to have dumped her boyfriend Taylor Locke. In Touch Weekly, which broke the news, claimed she ended her relationship with the Rooney guitarist on September 5, shortly after they had a three-week safari trip to Africa. Mischa and Taylor have been dating for five months, but their romance actually "worked because they spent so much time apart," a source told In Touch. "He'd be on tour or she'd be working in Europe and they talked over the phone or e-mail," the source explained. On their split, the source stated that hardly spending much time together before the trip makes it hard for the couple to get along during the excursion. Spending most of her time with Taylor made the actress to rethink about the future of her relationship with him. "They fought almost every day on the trip," the source testified. And so, Mischa finally "broke up with him just a few days after they returned to L.A." Mischa and Taylor were first spotted stepping out together as a couple in March 2008. They were snapped having lunch in West Hollywood. During their outing they reportedly were also seen kissing. In other Mischa news, she has just launched her own range of hair accessories which she created in partnership with designer Stacey Lapidus. The new line, which is called Mischa Barton for Stacey Lapidus, offers a range of headbands in materials that include silk, feathers, crystals and pearls.

 

RUSSELL BRAND BOOKED FOR NEXT YEAR'S MTV VMAs [Acehowbiz, 9/11/08]

Despite critics over his savage comic tongue which lashed Jonas Brothers'  vow to stay virgin until their marriage, British comedian Russell Brand has been requested to host MTV Video Music Awards again. "MTV told me they want me to do it again. Afterward, they were really thrilled," the comedian says. Elaborating his statement, Russell continues saying, "My phone hasn't stopped ringing. Most people thought it was great and I'm pleased with how it went." However, he says that the offer is still in consideration. "I will think very carefully about accepting," he states briefly. Furthermore, commenting on the last weekend's show, Russell admits that he had difficulty in handling the situation where all people expected was the best. "I spent a lot of time suppressing the urge to scream a career-ending remark during the show," he explains. "The knowledge that you could say something that would make the world go nuts was difficult." Outside his hosting job, Russell has also been busy finishing a comedy movie named "Get Him to the Greek " where he plays with Christina Aguilera to reprise his role as fictional Aldous Snow of "Forgetting Sarah Marshall ". Speaking of the collaboration, he states, "Christina was amazing. She is unbelievable, a perfect object."

 

NICOLE SCHERZINGER AND LEWIS HAMILTON STILL TOGETHER [Acehowbiz, 9/11/08]

Contrary to media claims, Nicole Scherzinger and Lewis Hamilton are still together and even planning to move in together soon. The lovers, who recently were reported to have broken up, have been busy house hunting but not yet decided on whether to buy a property in the U.S. or in the U.K. Revealing her plans to live together with her F1 ace boyfriend during the MTV's VMAs Sunday, September 7, The Pussycat Dolls member made no secret of her love for him, telling the press that she loves his English accent. Feeling excited about the plan, the songbird however insisted that she and Lewis have not yet had wedding plans. "A wedding isn't in the pipeline," so she claimed. Nicole's statement on her plan to live together with Lewis has thus quashed rumours that their relationship is over. Talks were loud in July that they split after she publicly stated that she's taking a break from their romance to concentrate on her career. "I am returning to the States to work on my new single and album," Nicole said at that time, adding "Lewis will be focusing on racing. I don't think we'll have much time to see each other before Christmas." Showing the world that her love for Lewis even grows stronger, Nicole reportedly also has penned a song for him, titled "I Think I'm In Love". Having no hesitancy to talk about it, she said "It is a very personal song. It's very in-depth and emotional - a real song that I know is going to connect with people."

 

LL COOL J REMOVES 50 CENT FROM "EXIT 13" [Acehowbiz, 9/10/08]

Among his collaborators, including big names The-Dream, Fat Joe, and Richie Sambora, Rap mogul LL Cool J decides to scrap off 50 Cent from his long list. "I'm not releasing the album he and I were working on. I took a few songs for (new album) 'Exit 13' and scrapped the rest," he says. When asked for confirmation, the rapper reveals his anxiety about fans' response concerning their first-ever collaboration. "That's due to the fact that I don't think people want to hear me rhyming like 50," he explains as saying. "Feel My Heart Beat" is a song in which he teams up with 50 Cent and it was strongly rumored to be the first single in "Exit 13". As the removal announced, some claim that the song may be dropped from the album and replaced with The-Dream-featuring tune called "Baby", which was originally planned as the second single. 50 Cent's publicist hasn't given any statement yet. Furthermore, LL Cool J's twelfth major studio effort, which was originally titled "Todd Smith Pt. 2: Back to Cool", has been available for purchase since today, September 9, 2008 via Def Jam Records.

 

CUSTODY TRIAL FOR RAPPER 50 CENT [BBC, 9/10/08]

Rap star 50 Cent is to face his former partner in court to settle a long-running custody battle over their son. New York family court judge David Freundlich set a trial date of 22 October for the pair to resolve their dispute over 11-year-old Marquise. The rapper has been granted weekend visitation rights until the trial. His ex-girlfriend Shaniqua Tompkins has alleged the star was behind a fire that destroyed the mansion where she and their son were living, which he denies. Six people, including Ms Tompkins and Marquise, were treated for smoke inhalation after the blaze on 30 May. The fire remains under investigation by the arson squad, while 50 Cent took legal action against his former partner, accusing her of defamation. The judge also issued a protection order against the musician, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, barring him from any contact with Ms Tompkins. Outside the courthouse, the rapper welcomed the judge's decision to allow him to see his son two weekends per month, saying: "I'm happy I get a chance to see him". Ms Tompkins said: "My son doesn't want every other weekend". The child will be dropped off at a police station in the Queens area of New York on Friday evenings, to be picked up by the rap star's driver.

 

OPRAH WINFREY CONFIRMED TO MAKE SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE AT EMMYS [Aceshowbiz, 9/10/08]

With the 60th annual Primetime Emmy Awards is drawing near, it has been reported that Oprah Winfrey will make a guest appearance at the star-studded event. On Monday, September 8 ABC, the television network which will be airing the awards show, officially confirmed her scheduled guest appearance at the upcoming event. Ken Ehrlich, the Executive Producer of Emmys, expressed his gratitude for having the famous talk show host guest starring at the festivity. He said, "Oprah Winfrey has been such a part of television for so many years that to have her participate in this year's show was very important to us. We're thrilled that she has accepted our invitation to be here to celebrate the TV Academy's 60th Anniversary." Moreover, Stephen McPherson, the president of ABC Entertainment, also praised Oprah to have epitomized "all that is wonderful about television." He added, "along with the Academy, our goal this year has been to celebrate this incredible medium. It is not only fitting, but an honor to have her be a part of this 60th Anniversary show." Oprah will be joining fellow celebs, like Ryan Seacrest, Tom Bergeron, Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum, and Jeff Probst, all of whom have been tapped to host the show. The fivesome, as well, are nominated in the new category, Best Reality Show Host. The 60th annual Primetime Emmy Awards will be broadcast live from the NOKIA Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, September 21, 2008 at 8:00-11:00 P.M., ET/PT on ABC.

 

STERN'S FIANCEE NOT THINKING ABOUT THE WEDDING [AP, 9/9/08]

Howard Stern's bride-to-be Beth Ostrosky says her No. 1 priority these days is training for the New York City marathon. No. 2: planning her October wedding to the radio shock jock. "I ran 10 miles this morning and 18 miles on Thursday, and every day my mileage is going up and up — so I don't even think about the wedding. I'm thinking about that November marathon!" Ostrosky said at the Monday afternoon presentation of Jill Stuart's spring collection at the New York Public Library. Despite her earlier workout, the leggy blond model looked fresh in a blue sleeveless Jill Stuart dress and shiny beige heels. Her accessories: a quilted Chanel purse and a bright smile. Stern proposed to the outgoing Ostrosky in February 2007 after a long courtship. "It's amazing," she said. "I can't wait to marry Howard. I know, everyone laughs! `What? You're going to marry Howard Stern?'" She said they will wed in Manhattan and honeymoon at their home on Long Island in the Hamptons. She'll wear a dress designed by Georgina Chapman of the high-fashion line Marchesa and later that night some "hanky-panky underwear and that's about it!" What happens after marriage? "More puppies ... adopted kittens. And hopefully a whole zoo in my house," said Ostrosky, who isn't planning to have children. She said she loves everything about Stern, and thinks he'd be an ideal candidate for vice president. "He knows everything about everything and he's fair and honest and brave and brilliant," she gushed.

 

NIGERIAN MAN TO DIVORCE 82 WIVES [BBC News, 9/9/08]

A Nigerian religious leader with 86 wives has accepted an Islamic decree ordering him to divorce all but four of them, local authorities say. A spokesman for the emir of Bida told the BBC that Mohammadu Bello Abubakar, 84, agreed on Saturday, September 6 to comply with the decree. Last week one of Nigeria's top Islamic bodies, the Jamatu Nasril Islam, sentenced him to death. The sentence was lifted but he was threatened with eviction from his home. Earlier, Mr Abubakar had challenged Islamic scholars, saying there was no punishment stated in the Koran for having more than four wives. "I have not contravened any established law that would warrant my being banished from the land... There is no law that says one must not marry more than four wives," the AFP news agency reported him as saying. Many of the wives live three to a room, some have seven children "All my wives are with children and some of these are people I have married and stayed with for over 30 years. How can they expect me to leave them within two days?" he reportedly told local newspapers. The former teacher and Islamic preacher lives in Niger State with his wives and at least 170 children. Niger is one of the Muslim majority states to have reintroduced Sharia punishments since 2000. Several people have been sentenced to death for adultery by Sharia courts but none of these sentences have been carried out.

 

CHARLIZE THERON SPOTTED SPORTING RING ON HER WEDDING FINGER [Aceshowbiz, 9/8/08]

Longtime lovers Charlize Theron and Stuart Townsend spark wedding speculation yet again after she was spotted sporting a ring on her wedding finger during an outing in New York City last week. The actress was photographed hugging the actor when photographers noticed the reported ring. Theron and Townsend, as reported by INF Daily, spent their day shopping at Gucci and Christian Dior. In between their shopping, Theron was seen giving Townsend a hug from the front. It was during that time that she was seen flashing the ring. Picture of the ring can be seen on INF Daily. Theron and Townsend are longtime lovers and have frequently been hit with marriage reports. No wedding has ever existed for the time being. It's been a hectic week for Theron as after her outing with Townsend, she was seen attending the 2008 Fashion Rocks at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on Friday, September 5. She was also spotted attending Fashion Week Spring 2009 at Barney's New York in New York City on Thursday, Sept 4, 2008.

 

HALLE BERRY, MARTHA STEWART AMONG STARS AT CK BASH [AP, 9/8/08]

Halle Berry, in a body-hugging outfit, and her special man, model Gabriel Aubry, helped make Calvin Klein's 40th anniversary bash a New York moment. The couple, who welcomed daughter Nahla in March, mingled with Djimon Hounsou and fashion designer Kimora Lee Simmons at Sunday's event held atop the High Line, a former elevated rail line that's been converted into a park on the city's west side. It was the third night of New York Fashion Week, and there was no party more exclusive with A-listers and striking views of the Empire State Building to the east and the World Trade Center memorial lights illuminating the southern coast of Manhattan island. Among guests were Naomi Watts, Martha Stewart, Cynthia Nixon, Brooke Shields and Vogue Editor-In-Chief Anna Wintour. Jared Leto chatted up Ethan Hawke and his wife, Ryan Shawhughes. Claire Danes walked hand-in-hand with actor-boyfriend Hugh Dancy. Kevin Bacon took in the scene, while Leighton Meester of "Gossip Girl" tried to navigate her way on the lantern-lit High Line to the bar for a drink. Shields grinned with giddiness as she strolled along what was once a rail line that led to the meatpacking plants near the Hudson River. The actress reminisced about her iconic 1980 ads for Klein, which made her a household name as a teenager. "It started it all. ... It was an important moment in my life," said Shields, sporting a black suit by the brand, now headed by designer Francisco Costa. Rosario Dawson, who wore a black-and-white patterned gown, praised CK's minimalist aesthetic of clean lines and simple elegance — and the party's location. "This is a New York moment right now," she gushed. "This is absolutely incredible."

 

BRITNEY SCORES REDEMPTION AND THREE MOONMEN AT VMAs [Aceshowbiz, 9/8/08]

In the end, all that buzz for the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards was more or less for naught. Britney Spears showed up. Michael Jackson did not. Russell Brand did, though if the early reactions of bloggers and Jordin Sparks are any indication, he may wish he hadn't. And in between the edgy banter and star-studded performances, a few awards were even handed out along the way. Most of which seemed to go to Spears, the night's official comeback kid. "Thank you so much," she said, taking the stage at the show's start to a standing ovation from the much-more-pared-down-than-usual audience. "Thank you for all the love. I'm here tonight to celebrate a very important birthday, the 25th anniversary of the VMAs." While the songbird clearly made good on her promise to open the VMAs—doing so in seemingly record time and on the briefest of cue-card-reading technicalities—she did not end up performing. But she did manage to score redemption in another way, taking home her first-ever Moonman statues. A spiffed and toned-up Spears bagged three awards over the course of the night: Best Female Video, Best Pop Video and the top prize, Video of the Year, for her single "Piece of Me." "I first wanna thank God for blessing me like this," she said of her first win, before dedicating the award to her fans. "This is for you." She was equally succinct in her Video of the Year Award acceptance speech. "Wow. I'm in shock right now. I was not expecting this!"  Here's the complete list of winners for the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards:  •  Video of the Year: Britney Spears, "Piece of Me"   •  Female Video: Britney Spears, "Piece of Me"   •  Male Video: Chris Brown, "With You"   •  Rock Video: Linkin Park, "Shadow of the Day"   •  Hip-Hop Video: Lil Wayne, "Lollipop"   •  Pop Video: Britney Spears, "Piece of Me"   •  Dancing in a Video: Pussycat Dolls, "When I Grow Up"   •  New Artist: Tokio Hotel.

 

SELENA GOMEZ DENIES WRITING "I'M SORRY" FOR NICK JONAS [Aceshowbiz, 9/8/08]

Reportedly tired of the claim, saying that she has written a special song called "I'm Sorry" for Nick Jonas of Jonas Brothers, Selena Gomez comes out for a defense. In a statement released at Disney store in New York City, she says, "It's definitely not about Nick Jonas." Furthermore, Selena explains that the boy is actually someone from her past who lives in Texas. "It's about someone back home in Texas," she says. Yet, Selena admits that she has been very close with the Jonas Brothers. "I haven't known the Jonas Brothers for that long, but I've gotten really close with all of them," she adds. The singer, who has told the press that she wants to form a band, states that she is now busy, involving on the whole process of getting her album done. "This year I'm finally in the process of starting an album. It's something that I've been wanting to do for a long time and I also want to take my fans through that journey so I'll definitely do a whole behind the scenes thing," she says. Along with her tight schedule, Selena also reportedly plans to travel with her best friend Demi Lovato for a possible tour.

 

ASHLEE AND PETE EXPECTING TWINS? [E! Online, 9/8/08]

Pete Wentz and Ashlee Simpson-Wentz could find themselves facing another round of twin rumours. Pete's buddy, hip-hop artist Tyga, says that the parents-to-be are expecting not one, but two bundles of joy. "They're having twins," Tyga said in an exclusive interview yesterday at the House of Hype's pre-VMA barbeque. "They're really happy." Either Tyga spilled the beans or he's repeating an internet rumour that Pete started earlier this summer… In June, Pete sent the internet into a tizzy when he referred to his and Ashlee's unborn baby as "them" during an Arizona radio interview. He quickly denied they were having twins, explaining to blogger Perez Hilton that he was just trying to be vague about the pregnancy. A rep for the couple insists only one baby is on the way. "It is not true," the rep said of Tyga's twins report. Pete, 29, and Ashlee, 23, were married on May 17 at her parents' L.A.-area home. Eleven days later the young rockers announced that Ashlee was preggers. Pete's band Fall Out Boy is up for a VMA tonight for Best Rock Video for the video for their cover of Michael Jackson's "Beat It."

 

ESTELLE DEFENDS KANYE WEST'S EGO [E! Online, 9/8/08]

Not everyone thinks Kanye West needs to rein in his attitude...in fact, Estelle (who sings "American Boy" with him), thinks more people should be so cocky. "People say what they say about his ego, but he's very sure of himself and I think that's a great way to be," she told E! News at Belvedere's dinner party at Dakota, which was held in her honor. "I think more people should follow him, and be more cocky and more proud of their work." She also wasn't surprised by his decision to close the VMAs tonight, despite him swearing that he'd never perform for MTV again after being shut out last year. "I'm sure it was all planned," she said. "I think people want to see what he'll bring after all of that and I think they're going to be pleasantly surprised and happy with it." Also getting a second chance to redeem herself after last year's VMA debacle: Britney Spears. The pop star is opening the show, but not performing per se.

 

CHANNING TATUM PROPOSED TO ACTRESS GIRLFRIEND JENNA DEWAN [Aceshowbiz, 9/8/08]

Taking his relationship with actress girlfriend Jenna Dewan to the next level, Channing Tatum proposed to her Friday, September 5 while they were in Maui. He presented her with a ring by Neil Lane, People reports. Tatum, who reportedly 'choreographed' the proposal by himself, secretly invited his and Dewan's close friends to the island to witness the proposal without her consent. Other details of the engagement party were not being disclosed though. Tatum and Dewan first met during the filming of the 2006 drama romance flick "Step Up", which they starred in. They started dating after the film wrapped. Both of them, nevertheless, always play it coy when being asked about their romance. "She's so incredibly sweet," so Tatum simply said about Dewan. Yet, he has previously opened up about the girl of his dream, telling People he would love to date "someone who doesn't take herself too seriously and can be a goofball. Because everyone's a nerd inside, I don't care how cool you are."

 

A-LIST SECRETS: THE TRUTH ABOUT $20 MILLION PAYCHEQUES [E! Online, 9/8/08]

When a movie star asks for $20 million for a movie, does he really get that in his bank account?  No. They get only a fraction of that, actually. But do not rend your garments on behalf of the A-listers, for, as any good Answer B!tch fan knows, stars still take home enough cash to pay for roughly three personal assistants, at least three homes, three nannies per every one of their children and a spiked collar for the publicist. Let's turn to an example: Robert Downey Jr.'s latest asking price per film is now a reported $12.5 million. Let's just assume that's what he'll get for appearing in Iron Man 2. Of that $12.5 million, exactly how much will Downey Jr. get to keep in walking-around money? It goes like this: Downey's agent at CAA will likely take 10 percent. The actor's business manager probably will take 5 percent. Downey's manager or attorney might take around 15 percent. Taxes will claim roughly 50 percent. Household people and other minions—publicists, assistants, chefs, house managers, etc.—take an estimated 10 percent. That leaves about 10 percent left over—or $1.25 million—in Maybach money. But again, no tears for Downey Jr. I bet he gets the flying Iron Man suit thrown in for free. Got a question about Hollywood? ASK IT! Oh, and be my fan on Facebook, 'kay?

 

WORLD'S FASTEST MAN DONATES US$50,00 TO QUAKE VICTIMS IN CHINA [Klassic Magazine, 9/8/08]

Jamaican Usain Bolt, triple Olympic gold medal winner and world record holder for the 100m, 200m and 4x100m visited victims of the devastating earthquake in Sichuan, China where he met victims of the quake. He then donated US$50,000 to the Red Cross for the province and said he hoped the people from the quake-battered province would "get through the tragedy". The 8.0 magnitude quake on May 12, 2008 in Sichuan left nearly 70,000 dead, and approximately 18,000 others are still missing. At least 10 million people lost their homes.He also encouraged. 

 

GARY COLEMAN HIT MAN WITH TRUCK IN UTAH [AP, 9/8/08]

Actor Gary Coleman hit a pedestrian with his truck after arguing with him in a local bowling alley, police said. Payson police Lt. Bill Wright said Colt Rushton and Coleman got into an argument in the early morning hours Saturday, September 6 over pictures Rushton had taken of Coleman inside the bowling alley. He said the argument continued outside, and that Coleman hit Rushton and a car as he was backing out of a parking space. Neither man was issued a citation, and Wright said it wasn't clear whether Coleman hit Rushton on purpose. He said neither man was giving authorities much information. "We're currently trying to sort through those issues," Wright told the Deseret News of Salt Lake City. "We've been able to establish there was an argument between the two, due to pictures Rushton wanted to take. He took some of Gary Coleman, and (Coleman) wasn't happy about it." Rushton was taken to a hospital and treated for minor injuries and released. Neither Coleman nor Rushton could be reached for comment Sunday, September 7. Neither had a listed phone number that could be found. Wright told The Salt Lake Tribune there are "indications" that alcohol was a factor in the accident. He was unavailable for comment Sunday. Coleman, who starred in the television sitcom "Diff'rent Strokes" from 1978 to 1986 as the character Arnold Jackson, pleaded no contest in California in 1999 to disturbing the peace after he punched an autograph-seeker he claimed insulted him. Payson is 52 miles southeast of Salt Lake City.

 

O.J. REVISITED AS SIMPSON FACES ROBBERY, KIDNAP TRIAL [AFP, 9/8/08]

Thirteen years after his acquittal in one of the most publicized murder cases in American history, former football great O.J. Simpson returns to court here Monday, September 8 for jury selection in a robbery and kidnapping case that could send him to prison for life. Legal experts say the outcome of the case is far from clear as Simpson, 61, faces a dozen felonies that stem from a confrontation in a hotel room last September in which he and a gang of gun-toting cohorts departed the scene with pillow cases stuffed full of sports memorabilia. The charges against Simpson and one of those men, Clarence "C.J." Stewart, includes kidnapping and armed robbery, both of which carry potential life sentences in the state of Nevada. Simpson and his group allegedly stormed the room at the Palace Station Hotel-Casino to retrieve memorabilia largely related to the football star's career that he has insisted was stolen from him. It was in the possession of two collectibles dealers, Bruce L. Fromong and Alfred Beardsley. Simpson later insisted he did not know that two of the men with him would be carrying guns and did not see them brandish their weapons. Four of the gang, including the two who carried weapons, have struck plea agreements for reduced sentences in exchange for testifying against Simpson. The encounter was arranged by another memorabilia dealer, Thomas Riccio, who recorded the incident and sold those recordings to the celebrity website TMZ.Com for a reported $165,000 before he shared the audio with police.

 

JERMAINE DUPRI PARTY HELPS KICK OFF MTV VMA BASHES [AP, 9/7/08]

Don't let the celebrities at a Jermaine Dupri party distract you from partying, or you might get an admonishment from the host himself. "At Jermaine Dupri parties, (people) don't stand around taking pictures," he said, in more colorful language, as some at his MTV Video Music Awards kickoff party focused their cameras on stars in the crowd Friday night, September 5. "It's star-studded all around this (place)." The superproducer and sometime rapper threw the party, along with his Tag Records, to kick off the weekend of parties being held for Sunday's MTV VMAs and to promote the label's new artist, rapper Q, who performed. Celebrity sightings included actor Taye Diggs and rapper Fabolous. Angela and Vanessa Simmons of MTV's reality show "Run's House" also attended. Rapper D-Nice worked the turntables, providing a steady stream of hip-hop hits to keep the party jumping. Earlier, the Gibson guitar company hosted a gifting suite that drew stars including reality TV villain Omorosa and "Grey's Anatomy's" Justin Chambers, his wife and their children. Chambers wasn't sure if he would attend Sunday's VMAs, but is looking forward to seeing Britney performance.  "I hear Britney Spears is opening up. I don't know if I'm excited but I would like to see her make a comeback from last year," referring to the pop queen's disastrous kickoff performance at the 2007 VMAs.

 

TOMMY LEE JONES SEEKS $10M IN "NO COUNTRY" LAWSUIT [AP, 9/7/08]

Tommy Lee Jones is suing the makers of "No Country for Old Men" for more than $10 million that the Oscar-winning actor claims he is owed for starring in the 2007 hit crime thriller. The lawsuit against Paramount Pictures claims that Jones was promised "significant box-office bonuses" and other compensation depending on the success of the film, which went on to make more than $160 million. The movie, which is set in Texas and based on a critically acclaimed Cormac McCarthy novel, garnered four Academy Awards, including "Best Picture." A message left for Paramount Pictures on Saturday, September 6 was not immediately returned. Jones declined to comment through his publicist, Jennifer Allen, the San Antonio Express-News reported. "The paperwork stands for itself," Allen said. The lawsuit was filed Thursday in Bexar County in San Antonio. N.M. Classics, Inc., a Paramount subsidiary, is also named in the lawsuit. Jones, who played Sheriff Ed Tom Bell in the film, claims he was not paid promised bonuses and had expenses wrongly deducted. The suit says Jones was paid a reduced upfront fee in joining the film, and that his contract had known errors not corrected before the movie was made. Jones, 61, is asking that an auditor be named to review financial records to determine how much he should be paid.

 

MADONNA DEDICATES "LIKE A VIRGIN" TO POPE [Reuters, 9/7/08]

Pop star Madonna, once accused by the Vatican of staging one of the most satanic shows in history, surprised fans by dedicating her hit "Like a Virgin" to the pope at a sold-out concert held in Rome. "I dedicate this song to the pope, because I'm a child of God. All of you are also children of God," the 50-year old "Queen of Pop" told the 60,000 fans that flocked to the Italian stop of her "Sticky & Sweet" world tour on Saturday, September 6. Italian newspapers gushed over the singer's electric performance and called the dedication a surprising provocation. "At the Roman leg of her tour, Madonna didn't miss the opportunity for a provocation that will certainly be discussed," Italy's top newspaper Corriere della Sera said in a front-page report. Madonna, who comes from a devout Italian Catholic family, has raised the ire of the Catholic Church in the past with sexually charged antics designed to shock. In 2006, she staged a mock-crucifixion at a concert in Rome to the backdrop of accusations from the Vatican of blasphemy. The Vatican also condemned her controversial 1989 video for the song "Like a Prayer" that featured burning crosses, statues crying blood and Madonna seducing a black Jesus. The Vatican later panned a show where she decked the stage out with religious imagery as one of the most "satanic shows in the history of humanity."

 

 

BEYONCE PERFORMS AT FASHION ROCKS FOR FASHION WEEK [E! Online, 9/7/08]

She's got style for miles. Kicking off New York Fashion Week, Beyoncé looked fabulous in this beautiful banana-colored gown at Friday night's, September 5 Fashion Rocks event. But beautiful B. then proceeded to belt out a stellar version of Etta James' classic "At Last" to a star-studded crowd—which included Etta James herself. Nice. A classy look, a class act. Beyoncé later dueted with Justin Timberlake on a crowd-pleasing "Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing" (other musical guests included the Black Eyed Peas, Rihanna, Kid Rock, Mary J. Blige, Miley Cyrus and Mariah Carey). But the fashion statements themselves also moved the New York fashionista throngs. Sample some of the stars' finery in our Fashion Rocks 2008 Gallery.

 

LINDSAY AND SAMANTHA ROCK THE RUNWAY CROWN [AP, 9/7/08]

Nobody draws attention like Lindsay Lohan and gal pal Samantha Ronson. The duo sat in the front row for the Saturday, September 6 morning presentation of Ronson's sister Charlotte's spring collection at New York Fashion Week, where they were immediately swarmed by photographers who brushed past other famous folks like Sean Lennon to get shots of the actress and DJ. Lohan sported a denim dress and blue pumps, and wore her blonde hair pulled back in a bun; Ronson had on a black T-shirt and a gray skinny jeans and vest — she usually incorporates a hat into her rocker look, but this time she opted to show off her pixie haircut. They stood up for a standing ovation when Charlotte Ronson appeared on the runway after the show, and made a quick exit as media chased them backstage (where they hid in a VIP lounge). Actress Emma Roberts, the niece of Julia Roberts, joked that she was stuck in a "Lindsay traffic jam" as she tried to leave the crowded event. In-demand music producer Mark Ronson — brother of Charlotte and Samantha — deejayed the music at the show. He declined comment when asked about the buzz over Lohan and his sister, but said he was proud of his family. "I think we're just all driven and love what we do," he said of his siblings.

 

SEX AND CHOCOLATE, TERI HATCHER'S KEYS TO HAPPINESS [Aceshowbiz, 9/7/08]

Sharing her key to a happy life to Glamour magazine, Teri Hatcher recommends sex and chocolate. The actress credits the two things to have escalated her into happiness. In an October column for the publication, she wrote "Have great sex [and] eat the chocolate." She aims the advice not only for people in common, but also for her daughter, Emerson Rose Tenney, who's still 10 years old. Sharing her other motherly advice, the "Desperate Housewives" star also wrote "Don't sit on public toilet seats and make sure to floss. ... Life's too short to stress; you'll be able to get past anything difficult; the sun will rise tomorrow; you are beautiful; you are lovable." Performing a single-parent role for Emerson, her daughter with then husband Jon Tenney, Teri tend to describe herself as a "43-year-old somewhat successful but still flawed and fragile woman." She confessed that for the time being she still has "little self-help handiwork" in form of a "goal board" that she keeps on adding every night. "It's basically a collage of images of things you want to achieve in your life - all written, glued or drawn onto a big piece of paper," so she said about the stuff. Teri rose to prominence, playing the role of Lois Lane in TV series "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman" (1993-1997). She won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress for her role as Susan Mayer on the hit TV series "Desperate Housewives" in 2005.

 

SELENA GOMEZ PENS "I'M SORRY" FOR NICK JONAS [Aceshowbiz, 9/7/08]

In a recent interview, Selena Gomez reveals that one of her favorite songs in her upcoming debut album is inspired by someone special that she has a crush on. "My favorite song that I've written is called 'I'm Sorry'," she says. "It's about a boy I kind of fell for but he couldn't let his ex-girlfriend go, and it was really difficult." Though Selena doesn't exactly name the boy in particular, referring to rumour saying that Nick Jonas of teen band sensation Jonas Brothers is assumed to start a romantic relationship with her, some then claim that the boy behind the inspiration is Nick. Instead of commenting on the issue, Selena says that the autobiographical lyrics are meant to encourage the boy to move forward. "The song is basically me saying that I'm sorry that it didn't work out or that she used to be who she was, but you have to let me in and you have to know that I'll do everything I can to make you happy and be the best I can be," she states. Her broken heart is even clearly seen when Selena says, "I felt like in a way, I wasn't good enough. it was the hardest time for me." She also says that the personal tune will likely be the only ballad song in the record as she wants the others to have more cheerful sounds. "I want the other stuff to be really fun," she adds. Unfortunately, the title and the schedule date for the album are still on the shelf as Selena refuses to give any information. In line with Selena's silence, her management team and recording label also refuse to give any statement. Additionally, Selena will travel across the Big Apple with the whole "Wizards of Waverly Place"'s cast to promote the film.

 

CAUGHT IN THE ACT, LINDSAY LOHAN LOCKS LIPS WITH SAMANTHA RONSON [Aceshowbiz, 9/7/08]

Being photographed kissing, it appears that Lindsay Lohan and Samantha Ronson have finally come out of the closet, letting the public know that they indeed are a couple. The long-rumored lesbian lovers were photographed locking lips on the street in New York City on Friday, September 5. It is reported that Lindsay and Samantha enjoyed a shopping trip in the Soho district that day before they later on were snapped kissing outside the Mercer Hotel. The DJ then was also seen visiting the actress during a shooting for a cameo in "Ugly Betty." During a shooting break on set, both Lindsay and Samantha were seen enjoying each other's company. They sat on the floor and had a chit chat as Samantha was playing around with a digital camera. Lindsay and Samantha have long been rumoured as lesbian lovers, but neither of them has ever commented on the persistent speculation. Though so, judging from the picture of them kissing which can be seen on Mail Online, it is safe to say that they're becoming more candid about their alleged romance. Scoring a guest appearance on "Ugly Betty", Lindsay plays the character of Kimmie, who's a former high school classmate of America Ferrera's Betty Suarez.

 

HIT MAKER AKON CAUGHT ON TAPE THROWING FAN [Aceshowbiz, 9/7/08]

It's a second "fan-throwing" scandal for Akon when he was caught on tape throwing two female concertgoers at a show. The incident happened during a packed show in Guyana, South America on Saturday, August 30, 2008. The R'n'B artist was videotaped performing on stage in a black t-shirt and dark-colored jeans. Enthusiastically asking concertgoers to follow in his move, he even danced with one of his male fans onstage. In between his performances, Akon took his shirt off and tried to "crowdsurf to a camera stand about 100 yards off stage". He finally got there, dancing with two young female fans and two male fans. It was during that time that he grabbed one of the female fans and pushed her into the crowd as she tried to hold his hand. He then grabbed the other lady who tried to embrace him from behind and tossed her into the crowd. Getting physically aggressive with concertgoer, indeed, isn't something new for Akon. He has on Wednesday, Sept 3 made an appearance for a brief hearing at Fishkill Town Court to ask a judge to grant his request for a jury trial in relation with his earlier fan-tossing case. He's slated to be back in court on December 1, 2008.

 

DIVORCE PAPERS REVEAL HULK HOGAN'S NET WORTH [AP, 9/6/08]

Thousands of dollars spent on clothing, grooming and vacations are among the average monthly expenses for Hulk Hogan's wife, according to financial affidavits filed in the couple's impending divorce case near Tampa. Linda Bollea's monthly expenses include $7,258 on clothing; $1,318 on grooming; $6,100 on vacations, the documents state. Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, spends $102 on clothing by comparison, and more than $38,000 on legal and accounting fees. The couple disagrees over Hogan's net worth; Hogan claims it is $32 million, while his wife, Linda, claims it is $26.7 million. Meanwhile, their son Nick is serving an eight-month jail sentence for causing a traffic crash that left a passenger permanently disabled.

 

DUI PLEA ALL GREEK TO TV STAR [E! Online, 9/6/08]

The star of Greek may be in for a bit of a hazing by the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office. Scott Michael Foster, who plays Cappie on the ABC Family show, has pleaded not guilty to two misdemeanor counts of driving under the influence stemming from his bust earlier this summer. The 23-year-old small-screen frat boy was arrested in the early hours of July 21 after failing a field sobriety test issued during a routine traffic stop. He was charged with driving under the influence and driving with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08 percent or above. He was released after several hours on $5,000 bail and headed straight to the Greek set, where he was quick to issue mea culpas to his fellow cast and crew. He's clearly got some school spirit. Time will tell if he's also got a good defense. A pretrial hearing has been set for Sept. 22, 2008.

 

BIANCA JAGGER'S 200,000-EURO RING FOUND IN AUSTRIA [AFP, 9/6/08]

Human rights activist Bianca Jagger's 200,000-euro ($295,000) ring which she lost last month in Salzburg has been recovered, local police said Friday (Sept. 5). Andreas Huber, head of the municipal police crime squad, said he had told the former wife of Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger that the ring had been found. "She is very happy, while somewhat disappointed and hurt by media rumours of an insurance fraud," he said, adding that she had assured him the ring had not even been insured. Jagger had reported the platinum-and-aquamarine ring, which she had designed herself, was lost in the street on August 22 while she was attending the annual Salzburg music festival. Huber said it was found the same day by a local resident, who thought it was a key ring of little value and later gave it to a relative. He only read of the ring's loss a few days later in an old newspaper, and asked the relative on Thursday (Sept. 4, 2008) to take it to the police. Under Austrian law, the finder is entitled to a reward of five percent of the ring's value, or 10,000 euros.

 

SOPRANO ANNA NETREBKO GIVES BIRTH TO BABY BOY [AP, 9/6/08]

Anna Netrebko has a new tenor in her life. The soprano gave birth to a 7-pound, 13-ounce boy Friday, Sept. 5, in Vienna, Austria, New York-based publicist Glenn Petry said. Her fiance, bass-baritone Erwin Schrott, attended the birth. The name of the child wasn't announced. "Both parents are delighted that their son has finally arrived and look forward to introducing him to family and friends in the coming days," said her manager, Jeffrey Vanderveen. Netrebko, who turns 37 on Sept. 18, last performed June 27 at a concert in Vienna. She is scheduled to return to the stage Jan. 14 and 17, 2009 in the title role of Donizetti's "Lucia di Lammermoor" at the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, Russia, then perform the same role at New York's Metropolitan Opera starting Jan. 26, 2009.

 

DAVID SPADE IS THE FATHER OF PLAYBOY PINUP'S BABY [AP, 9/6/08]

David Spade is the father of Playboy playmate Jillian Grace's newborn daughter, Spade's representative said Thursday, September 4. The baby girl was born Aug. 26, 2008 in Missouri, and Spade plans to visit her on his first break from filming the CBS sitcom "Rules of Engagement," publicist Meredith O'Sullivan said. No further details were provided. The 44-year-old comedian told TMZ.com earlier this year that he had a brief relationship with Grace, and would accept responsibility if confirmed to be the father of her child.

 

JENNIE GARTH'S LITTLE DAUGHTER HAS ARTHRITIS [Aceshowbiz, 9/6/08]

Aside from the success of her latest TV project, CW's "90210", Jennie Garth finds out that not all is well in her life as her little daughter, Lola Ray, was diagnosed with arthritis earlier this year. Opening up about that in a new interview with People, she referred to the moment as "six months of hell." "I had a sick daughter and then my father passed away, so there was a six month period in my life when I didn't think about my looks or my weight or my body or anything," so she explained to People for using such reference. Not knowing the disease Lola was suffering from, she found it even harder when after completing her stint on "Dancing with the Stars," Lola's condition got worse and she didn't even know what was wrong with the little girl. Going through the dark moment for some time, doctors could finally diagnose Lola's illness, saying she suffered from Juvenille Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA), which is an autoimmune disorder that causes swelling in the joints. Garth revealed that while the process was tough, Lola is "better now." Spending 10 years on the original series of "90210" in 1990s, Garth reprises her role of Kelly Taylor, which catapulted her to fame, in its spin-off which already premiered on CW on Tuesday, September 2. The teen drama series quickly became a hit soon after its first airing. Off screen, Garth has been married to actor Peter Facinelli since January 2001. They are parents to three daughters; Luca Bella, Lola, and Fiona Eve.

 

JESSICA SIMPSON AND TONY ROMO SHACKING UP [Aceshowbiz, 9/6/08]

Having been together for months, Jessica Simpson and Tony Romo spark rumours that they will soon walk down the aisle as they reportedly are moving in together. Wedding talks are mounting hot on the heels of reports that claim the pair have set their eyes on a six-bedroom, four-bath mansion in Irving, Texas that costs nearly $700,000 for them to live in together. "Jess and Tony have been together since last Thanksgiving and they're ready to take their relationship to the next level ... Both of them agreed it was practical to move in together before a wedding so they can work out the kinks," the National Enquirer cited its insider as saying. "Jessica still has her home in Beverly Hills, but she plans to oversee the redecorating of Tony's house, and then settle into the role of homemaker when her concert tour ends in October." Greater than the new house and interior design, Jessica and Romo are said to have also planned to have nursery. Besides talking about repainting wall, the couple have agreed to turn "one of the spare bedrooms into a nursery." The insider told the National Enquirer that "Jess plans spending the rest of her life with Tony. They're laying the foundation for a life together as husband and wife ... and parents." There have yet comments from Jessica, Romo, or their people. Though so, the actress-singer has made no secret of her wedding wish, telling Fox News in a new interview "I would love to be making records and making babies, and hopefully I'm married in 10 years." She added, "I have the dreams of every normal person." Love life aside, Jessica is having her debut country music album "Do You Know" to be released this weekend.

 

THE OLDER WOMAN WHO TAKES DANIEL RADCLIFFE'S VIRGINITY IDENTIFIED [Aceshowbiz, 9/5/08]

Daniel Radcliffe's biggest secret about the woman who took his virginity has been outed by US Weekly. While the young actor has been keeping the woman's identity under wrap, the magazine claimed it's his ex-girlfriend Amy Byrne who did it. Radcliffe recently revealed in an interview for the October issue of Details magazine that he lost his virginity to an older woman. He, nevertheless, wouldn't say who the lucky lady was. He only said that the age difference between him and the lady "wasn't ridiculous but it would freak some people out." In a report in its new issue, US Weekly quoted a source as claiming that Radcliffe lost his virginity to his then girlfriend Amy, an assistant hairdresser who was 23 years old when they first met on the set of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" (2005). Notwithstanding with the claim, a representative for Radcliffe has no comment at all. The actor himself has yet commented on the report. Gaining fame when he was still very young, even before he reached Britain's age of consent, 16, Radcliffe did admit that most of his friends are girls. Staying single for the time being, he stated that he has no time to date just like his other peers. "Most of my friends have been girls, and I see how they are with their boyfriends and I think, I couldn't do that," he revealed. "I just don't have the time." Provoking pros and cons with his full frontal appearance in the original London production of "Equus", Radcliffe will be reprising his role in the stage production's Broadway play on September 5, 2008. He, in the meantime, also is preparing himself to play a more mature role in the upcoming drama flick "Journey." 

 

STARS TURNED UP FOR "ENTOURAGE" SEASON 5 PREMIERE [Aceshowbiz, 9/5/08]

Nearly entering its fifth season on this coming Sunday, September 7, HBO original series "Entourage" threw down season 5 premiere event at Ziegfeld Theater in New York City on Wednesday, September 3. Joining the celebration were many of the Hollywood A-list celebrities and others. Most of the series' cast ensemble, including Adrian Grenier, Kevin Connolly, Kevin Dillon, Jeremy Piven, Rex Lee, Jerry Ferrara and Perrey Reeves, arrived in their best possible suits or dresses and posed for the press. They were also joined by executive producer, Mark Wahlberg and writer Doug Ellin. Apart from the major cast, several actors who have recurring roles in the series, such as Constance Zimmer, Carla Gugino, Jordan Belfi and Leighton Meester, had also attended the premiere. Other celebrity guests coming out for the special occasion were Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Bow Wow, Monica Seles, Aida Turturro, Vincent Lecavalier, Lee Tergesen, Martin Brodeur, New York Rangers' goaltender Henrik Lundqvist and designer Monique Lhuillier. On other "Entourage" news, E! Online has reported that the eight-time gold medalist at 2008 Beijing Olympics, Michael Phelps has shot an impromptu cameo appearance with the series' cast in New York City sometime this week. Still, it is unclear on which episode his cameo will be aired. Speaking on the filming experience with American golden boy, Connolly said, "It was like being in New York City with one of The Beatles. People were stopping in the streets and climbing up things to see him. They were going nuts. He's like a superstar."

 

RIHANNA AND CHRIS BROWN TO PLAY DOUBLE-BILL IN NEW ZEALAND [Aceshowbiz, 9/5/08]

Two of the world's most popular R&B performers, Rihanna and Chris Brown, may be reluctant to confirm their romantic relationship but they will definitely be together in New Zealand. Next month, the two singers are set to join forces in the country where Rihanna and Chris are currently holding steady at number one on the singles charts with their respective hits "Disturbia" and "With You". Speaking of the New Zealand's collaboration, Chris says that he is thrilled. "I love it out there," he states. "I can't wait to see the fans out there because I've been away for a little while." Unfortunately, when asked for the details, the "Run It" singer remains silent on what people could expect from the show. Instead, he says that he and Rihanna will play separate sets. "We're not gonna interfere with each other's sets, we're just gonna have our own set," he informs. The tour, which will be held at Auckland's Vector Arena on October 27, and at Wellington's TSB Arena on October 29, will be their first-ever joint concert. Starting from September 15, 2008, tickets are available for purchase through ticketmaster for Auckland's show and ticketek for Wellington's gig.

 

CAMERON DIAZ AND PAUL SCULFOR CANOODLING AT U.S. OPEN [Aceshowbiz, 9/5/08]

No longer hiding their love relationship, Cameron Diaz and Paul Sculfor were snapped kissing at the 2008 U.S. Open Tuesday, September 2 in New York. The pair were watching Andy Roddick's match at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, when they were snapped getting up close and personal, hugging and kissing throughout the match. Being unable to hide their love for each other, it seemed that the couple, who were wearing matching outfits, white skirts and dark pants, enjoyed their public display of affection (PDA) much more than the match. They were seen staying side by side during the tennis match and seemingly didn't even really care about the people around them. Talks were loud in early June 2008 that Diaz and Paul were dating as they were photographed having a dinner date at Santa Monica's Il Ristorante di Giorgio Baldi. And while neither of them has ever officially confirmed their romance, they've been snapped several times enjoying a string of romantic dates. They were last spotted hugging and kissing during an outing in West Hollywood in late June.

 

OPRAH WINFREY IN FINAL TALKS FOR "30 ROCK" GUEST STARRING ROLE [Aceshowbiz, 9/5/08]

Oprah Winfrey is said to have been in final negotiation to make a guest starring role in NBC's "30 Rock". E! broke the news that the talk show queen is close to signing a deal to appear on the hit comedy series. Greater than that, it is claimed that she has also been written into the script for its second episode. No confirmation from both Oprah herself and NBC, but E!'s Kristin Dos Santos claimed that Oprah is slated to make a cameo in the 302 episode of "30 Rock". The episode currently is slated to be aired on Nov. 6, 2008. Kristin, furthermore, cited what she called as "reliable insiders" as saying that Oprah would likely play herself. She's about to be featured in the TV series having feud with Tina Fey's character Liz Lemon. She will as well involve in ongoing feud with Tracy Jordan, played by Tracy Morgan, and Jenna Maroney, the character played by Jane Krakowski. The feud among them will continue through several episodes, it has been reported. Oprah is the next Hollywood celeb after Jennifer Aniston to make a guest starring role in "30 Rock". NBC has announced that the comic actress will portray the character of Claire Harper, the former roommate of Fey's character Liz Lemon, who shows up and begins to stalk Jack Donaghy, Alec Baldwin's character. The network described her role as a "free-spirited, 'Fatal Attraction' like stalker."

 

DUSTIN MILLIGAN DEBUT ON "90210" [CBC, 9/5/08]

Beverly Hills and Yellowknife don't appear in the same sentence often, but the two cities are colliding with N.W.T. native Dustin Milligan's debut in the new Beverley Hills 90210 spinoff. Milligan, 23, plays high school jock Ethan Ward on 90210, a modern version of the '90s hit teen drama. The show premiered Tuesday (Sept. 2)  on Global TV in Canada and The CW Television Network in the United States. Speaking to CBC News from Los Angeles, Milligan said the show has given him the most exposure he's ever received — a big break for an actor who decided to pursue acting while attending École Sir John Franklin High School in Yellowknife. Milligan said ratings for the first episode of "90210" beat similar premier ratings for similar hit shows. "It's the biggest premiere of a series that The CW has ever seen before," he said. "It was bigger than Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The O.C., One Tree Hill, I think Gossip Girl. So it's quite amazing what's happened here." Milligan said he decided to pursue an acting career during his last year at Sir John Franklin, where he starred in musicals like Grease and Saturday Night Fever. "He brought so much to the table right from the beginning," said Landon Peters, who was Milligan's drama teacher. "He was a very, very hard worker, very determined, very articulate. Basically he's got a photographic memory — he can just memorize lines. And intuitively, he's just very smart, very perceptive, so his deliveries are excellent." As for the future, Milligan said he hopes to act in a blockbuster film someday, and perhaps even win an Oscar.

 

COLDPLAY BAG FOUR NOMINATIONS AT "Q AWARDS" [Aceshowbiz, 9/3/08]

Coldplay lead the shortlist of this year's Q Awards with four nominations. On top of the list, the band are nominated for Best Album, thanks to their latest album "Viva la Vida". They will compete with four others contenders, including Fleet Foxes with their self-titled album, The Last Shadow Puppets with "The Age of the Understatement", Vampire Weekend with their self-titled album, and Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds with "Dig!!! Lazarus, Dig!!!".The band are also listed in Best Track and Best Video categories for single "Violet Hill" from their fourth album. Other bands who join Coldplay in Best Track caterory are Hot Chip with "Ready for the Floor", Vampire Weekend with "A-Punk", and Goldfrapp with "Happiness". For their last nomination, Coldplay join Oasis, Muse, Metallica and Kings of Leon in Best Act category. The winners from all categories will be announced in the ceremony which will take place at London's Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane on October 6, 2008.

 

CHARLIE SHEEN REVEALS BROOK MUELLER'S CRAVINGS [Aceshowbiz, 9/3/08]

Making no secret of the joy he has that he's expecting his first child with new wife Brooke Mueller, Charlie Sheen keeps talking about things surrounding her pregnancy, including her cravings. In an interview with TV's Extra, the actor said his wife craves pickles and ice-cream among the other things. "She came to the outdoor kitchen the other night with a jar of pickles," Sheen told Extra. "That was followed by ice-cream." Mueller herself openly admitted that in addition to both she also craves "cheese, crackers, pistachios and everything." Having had three daughters from his two failed marriages, Sheen recently revealed that he and Mueller are hoping to have son. The TV actor even is "batting 100 percent" that he will be decorating the nursery of his upcoming baby with baseballs instead of Barbie dolls. Sharing all those details with the press, the couple, however, do not mention Mueller's due date. The upcoming baby will be the fourth for Sheen and the first for Mueller.

 

AKON WILL GO TO TRIAL IN NEW YORK FAN-TOSS CASE [Aceshowbiz, 9/3/08]

Akon will go to trial on criminal charges he tossed a fan offstage at a concert last summer. The 35-year-old singer is accused of tossing a teenager off the stage during a June 2007 concert at a minor league baseball stadium near Poughkeepsie. Another concertgoer said she suffered a concussion when the boy landed on her. Akon asked for the jury trial in Fishkill Town Court on Wednesday. He's due back in court Dec. 1, 2008. He pleaded not guilty in December to misdemeanor charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and second-degree harassment, a violation. His hits include "Smack That" with Eminem and "I Wanna Love You" with Snoop Dogg. His most recent album, "Konvicted," was nominated for four Grammy Awards.

 

HUGH GRANT FINDS NEW LOVE IN FASHION DESIGNER [Aceshowbiz, 9/3/08]

Often becoming the subject of media scrutiny with his love life, Hugh Grant apparently has ended his single status as he's been reported to be dating fashion designer Catherine Fulmer, who's 21 years his junior. The dating report emerged following his split from socialite Jemima Khan in 2007 after three years of dating.  Hugh, who's about to turn 48 years old next Tuesday, September 9, sparked rumours that he's dating the 27-year-old lady after they were seen together on a beach on Sunday, August 31. A representative for Hugh declined to comment on the dating rumors though, simply saying that the actor and Catherine "met at a party and Hugh does not know her at all." The rep went on adding, "Someone's got their wires crossed." Aside from designing, Catherine has recently been tipped as an upcoming star. Rumour has it, Hugh may attend her New York Fashion Week show next week. Hugh split with longtime girlfriend, actress Elizabeth Hurley, in 2000 after 13 years together. They remain close friends and have recently been photographed enjoying a day out together with her husband Arun Nayar in St Tropez. Hugh then began dating Jemima in 2004, but their relationship came to an end February last year.

 

MILEY CYRUS ORDERS HERSELF A MERCEDES-BENZ [Aceshowbiz, 9/3/08]

In Touch Weekly claims that Miley Cyrus has bought herself the car of her dream, a big one, which is Mercedes-Benz CLK 550 Cabriolet. Sharing her birthday wish list to the press, the actress-singer was previously quoted as saying she wants a car, Wii Fit and a puppy for her 16th birthday and it seems like she's making her dream comes true. Miley is going to turn 16 years old on November 23 and she has been very vocal in announcing that she's going to celebrate her birthday with a bash at California's Disneyland on October 5. Per the publication, Miley ordered herself "a fully loaded, convertible white" one which costs more than $75k. Verifying the report, a source claimed that "Miley wanted special options like parking assist and a cream-colored leather interior, so she ordered the car early. She's telling everyone that she hopes to get a car when she turns 16, so when it comes, she can say it was a surprise from her parents." There has yet comment from Miley herself or her people about the report.

 

TIGER WOODS PROUDLY ANNOUNCES WIFE'S SECOND PREGNANCY [Aceshowbiz, 9/3/08]

Tiger Woods and his wife Elin Nordegren are about to become parents for the second time. The golf champion shares his joy, announcing his wife's pregnancy with their second child together in a post on his official website, dated Tuesday, September 2, 2008. "This has been a year of contrasts," Woods began writing. "I had a solid start to the season, won the U.S. Open in an exciting playoff, and then unfortunately had to shut it down after successful knee surgery." "And now, I have some wonderful news to report. Sam is going to be a big sister," so the athlete continued writing on his official site. "Elin and I are proud to announce that we are expecting our second child in late winter." Woods and Elin, a former Swedish model, got engaged in November 2003. They have been married since October 2004. Their first child, a daughter named Sam Alexis Woods, was born in June 2007. Aside from his marriage life, Woods has been out of action since winning the U.S. Open at Torrey Pines, California back in June. The professional golfer reportedly will be sidelined for at least the rest of the year after undergoing reconstructive knee surgery.

 

NE-YO RICHER AFTER DROPPED FROM R. KELLY'S TOUR [AP, 9/3/08]

Judge favored Ne-Yo in the case involving him and his fellow R&B singer R. Kelly. A concert promoter was ordered by the court to pay Ne-Yo an amount of $700,320 in compensation of the damages done after the singer was yanked out of Kelly's "Double Up" tour. In January this year, Ne-Yo was suing mad after he was suddenly cut off as the supporting act of Kelly's November tour while in fact he already emptied his agenda especially for the commitment. Ne-Yo claimed that he was dropped because he was thought overshadowing the performance of the main act, namely R. Kelly. Ne-Yo reportedly was only given $50,000 for the two performances that he did and demanded the remaining contractual number of $735,000. Based on the decision made by Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Malcolm Mackey, Rowe Entertainment Inc. will now have to pay the stated amount to Ne-Yo and his touring company. Kelly meanwhile, is not mentioned in the lawsuit. Ne-Yo is set to drop his third studio album "Year of the Gentleman" on September 16, 2008.

 

LIBRARY OF CONGRESS TO HONOUR STEVIE WONDER [AP, 9/3/08]

The Library of Congress will honor Stevie Wonder with its second Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. Librarian of Congress James Billington, who announced the prize Tuesday (Sept. 1), noted that the prize honors an artist whose work transcends musical styles to bring diverse listeners together and foster mutual understanding. It recognizes a musician's lifetime of work. Wonder, 58, will receive the award on Feb. 23, 2009. The first Gershwin Prize was awarded in 2007 to Paul Simon. Self-taught on piano, harmonica and other instruments, Steveland Morris was just 12 when he first wowed national TV audiences on shows like Dick Clark's "American Bandstand." He was "Little Stevie Wonder" back then, a name he says someone at Motown Records — he can't remember exactly who — came up with. From his earliest days as a prodigy covering Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind" through such songs of his own as "You Are the Sunshine of My Life," "My Cherie Amour" and "Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours," his music has sought to uplift and inform as well as entertain. Among his albums: "Talking Book," "Innervisions," "Fulfillingness First Finale" and "Songs in the Key of Life," the last of which included his classic single "Love in Need of Love Today."

 

AMY WINEHOUSE TURNS TO BUDDHISM TO HAVE  STABILITY IN HER MESSY LIFE [Aceshowbiz, 9/2/08]

Being threatened with legal action for pulling out of a French music festival just a couple hours before it was due to start, Amy Winehouse apparently has embraced her spiritual awakening. She reportedly is turning to Buddhism to have stability in her messy life and most of all to beat her addiction to drugs and alcohol. Facing a string of health issues over the last year and having been diagnosed with traces of deadly lung disease emphysema, Amy is said to have been battling her addictions by using calming Buddhist chants to help her relax and battle stress. Britain's The Sun newspaper broke the news and was told by a source that one of Amy's musicians introduced her to "Buddhist chanting." She has since chanted "for ten minutes in the morning and just before she sleeps." "Amy has also been watching the interview clip of Tina Turner on YouTube and she reckons it's already affecting her in a positive way," the source claimed, adding that the troubled singer "has a string of Buddhist beads that she chants with, which she keeps in a red silk scarf. She says chanting is filling her life with positivity while she is trying to sort herself out." Amy pulled out of a scheduled appearance at the Rock En Seine festival on Friday, August 29. She informed the festival's organizers that she would not be appearing at the last minute before the festival was kicked off. Bosses of the festival reportedly have been planning to start legal proceedings against Amy due to the sudden cancellation. There has yet comment from Amy or her people about report on her turning to Buddhism and being sued by the bosses of the Rock En Seine festival. Singer Tina Turner, on the other hand, turned to Buddhism after she split from her rocker husband Ike Turner in 1975.

 

TEA LEONI CANCELS TORONTO FILM FESTIVAL APPEARANCE [Aceshowbiz, 9/2/08]

Report on David Duchovny's rehabilitation for sex addiction has become talk of the town since the actor first announced that matter late last month. Amidst heavy talk on the issue, the actor's wife Tea Leoni has decided to cancel all her commitments at the upcoming Toronto International Film Festival. Tea initially was scheduled to attend the premiere of her latest movie "Ghost Town" in the film festival, which is about to be held from September 4 to 13. A representative for the actress confirmed her absence from the festival to People magazine. No further confirmation is made by either the representative or Tea herself. Duchovny publicly confirmed on August 28, in a statement issued through his representative, that "I have voluntarily entered a facility for the treatment of sex addiction. I ask for respect and privacy for my wife and children as we deal with this situation as a family." He nevertheless didn't mention on where he sought treatment. Showtime, the network which will begin airing the second season of "Californication", the cable television series in which Duchovny plays as a womanizing writer Hank Moody, offered well wishes for the actor. "All of us at Showtime wish David and his family the best during this very private time," a representative for the network said in a statement. It has also been confirmed that the series will remain unaffected by Duchovny's visit to rehab with all the 12 episodes for the second season of the series have already been filmed. The show's second season is set to be aired on the U.S. television on September 29, 2008.

 

"ROCKnROLLA" WORLD PREMIERE MARKED BY MADONNA'S SURPRISING APPEARANCE [Aceshowbiz, 9/2/08]

On Monday, September 1, Warner Bros. Pictures were hosting an eventful evening for their forthcoming "RocknRolla" as the action thriller film rolled down red carpet at the Odeon cinema in West End, London in celebration of its world premiere. Making the special event even more merry, the red carpet saw a surprise appearance from Guy Ritchie's superstar wife, Madonna. Arriving minutes before the film was screened, the pop legend who was dressed in a short black Stella McCartney dress strolled down the carpet arm-in-arm with her director husband. Beside Madonna and Ritchie, the premiere was also attended by many of the cast ensemble, including Gerard Butler, Thandie Newton, Idris Elba, Geoff Bell, Jimi Mistry, Mark Strong, Tom Wilkinson and Tom Hardy, as well as the film's producers, Joel Silver and Susan Downey. Commenting on his film, Ritchie shared that this crime movie is an "indulgence" for him. "It's the kind of film I like. I've made a film for me," said the filmmaker at the premiere while waiting for his wife coming from her Sticky & Sweet show in Switzerland. "My inspiration came from the fact that London has changed so much in the last 10 years." Another gangster movie from Ritchie, "RocknRolla" tells the story of a million dollars crooked land deal made by a Russian mobster that gathers up all of London's criminal underworld from a dangerous crime lord to a sexy accountant, a corrupt politician and down-on-their-luck petty thieves. It is due to be released on October 31, 2008.

 

JERRY O'CONNELL REVEALS WIFE REBECCA UNUSUAL CRAVINGS [Aceshowbiz, 9/2/08]

Pregnant actress Rebecca Romijn keeps embracing her cravings as she's waiting for the arrival of her twins this winter. Her husband Jerry O'Connell who previously revealed that she craves "lot of ice cream" told People that she also has some other unusual cravings and experiences big changes in her appetite. "Lemonade always has to be in our fridge," so the actor told the magazine on Sunday night, August 31 before participating in the Nike + Human Race in Los Angeles about his wife's unusual cravings. "That's my job. [Also] soy cream cheese. It's crazy, right? Can't be cream cheese. Soy cream cheese. Do you know how difficult it is to find soy cream cheese? It's usually in the corner of the supermarket someplace!" Dealing with his wife's cravings, Jerry revealed that he also noticed a big change in her appetite, jokingly telling People "Meals are not missed. We promptly hit them and if we're a little late, then ... somebody's not happy." With Romijn's pregnant belly is "getting bigger by the day," Jerry admitted that they have yet decided on names. Though so he admitted that they would probably name one of twins Dolly since Romijn is a huge Dolly Parton's fan. "The advice I've heard from other people who have twins is don't call them 'the twins' and don't name them rhyming names," he added.

 

HALLE BERRY TAKES BABY DAUGHTER, NAHLA TO THE ZOO [Aceshowbiz, 9/2/08]

Keeping her baby daughter, Nahla, away from media spotlight since she was first born, Halle Berry introduces her to the world, taking the little girl to the zoo. The mother and daughter duo were seen spending their day at the Los Angeles Zoo on Saturday afternoon, August 30. Berry was seen wearing a cream tank top and white short pants. She wore huge sunglasses and a pair of flat sandals. Her mother Judy was seen accompanying them. The family also took along with them a number of security team. Pictures of Berry, Nahla, and Judy enjoying their day at the zoo can be seen at Gossip Girls. Berry gave birth to Nahla, her daughter with longtime model boyfriend Gabriel Aubry, in March 2008. She never makes a deal with any magazines to make public the first pics of Nahla, just like what some other celebrities do when they have babies. In late July, several pictures of Nahla emerged on the net. The pics apparently were taken by random photographer while Berry was carrying Nahla around to hang out in the backyard of her private property. She was quick to issue a denouncement against the photographer who snapped the random pictures, saying "I have long since come to terms with the fact that choosing a career as an actress has made me a public figure, but my baby has made no such choice, and unless and until she does, I will do everything I can ... to keep her out of the public eye." She reportedly also filed a legal complaint against the questioned photog, seeking to get the photos removed from the web. Subsequent development of the case remains unknown.

 

CARLA BRUNI SCHEDULED TO JAM WITH McCARTNEY, METALLICA [Aceshowbiz, 9/2/08]

Carla Bruni, France's first lady, is expected to jam on British television with Paul McCartney and Metallica. The former supermodel, who married French President Nicolas Sarkozy in February, is slated to appear on BBC's Later … With Jools Holland on Sept. 16, 2008. In July, Bruni released her latest album, Comme si de Rien N'était (As If Nothing Happened), which raised a few eyebrows with its risqué lyrics concerning her paramour, Sarkozy. As she sings in Ta Tienne (Yours): "You are my lord, you're my darling, you're my orgy … my charming Prince I am yours … I who always sought fire, am burning for you like a pagan woman." And in My Drug, she croons that her lover is her drug, "more deadly than Afghan heroin, more dangerous than Colombian white [powder]." A BBC statement says Bruni, 40, will perform "a song or two from her recently released third album." Sharing the spotlight will be heavy rockers Metallica, making their first appearance on the show in 12 years, who will play new songs from their ninth album, Death Magnetic. Ex-Beatle McCartney will team up with record producer and bassist Martin Glover under the name The Fireman. Tradition usually has Holland's guests jamming together after the opening credits.

 

WEDDING PICS OF GANDOLFINI AND LIN HIT THE NET [Aceshowbiz, 9/2/08]

James Gandolfini and his fiancee Deborah Lin have just held their wedding over the weekend, but pictures of their nuptials are quick to hit the Internet. In the several pictures featured on Just Jared, the newlyweds are seen all smiling. The bride was seen wearing a white gown made of Italian lace, holding a white hand bouquet on her hand. The groom, elsewhere, wore a black tuxedo and white tie. Gandolfini, 46, and Lin, 40, tied the knot in an intimate wedding ceremony held Saturday, August 30 at Central Union Church in her hometown of Honolulu. They exchanged wedding vows in front of close family and friends. Gandolfini's eight-year-old son, Michael, from his first marriage to Marcy Wudarski, served as best man. Following the sacred nuptials, Gandolfini and Lin held an evening reception at a nearby resort. During the celebration, "there were lots of white flowers on the tables and Gandolfini was beaming," a source confirmed to People which broke news of their wedding. Gandolfini and Lin engaged in late 2007 after dating for about one year. The weekend marriage is the first for Lin and the second for Gandolfini. His marriage to first wife Marcy ended in 2002.

 

CHRISTINA AGUILERA TAKES BABY BOY MAX OUT FOR FAMILY DINNER [Aceshowbiz, 9/2/08]

Max Liron Bratman, the son of famous singer Christina Aguilera with her husband Jordan Bratman, has made his magazine and TV debut at such a young age. And on Monday, September 1 the little boy who's still 7 months old, made his public debut for one more time when his mother took him for a family dinner in Manhattan, New York City. During the outing, Christina was seen carrying little Max with both of her hands. Her music executive husband Bratman followed the mother-son duo from behind. The songbird even was kind enough to sign autographs for fans before entering their Manhattan eatery destination. Christina gave birth to Max in L.A. on January 12. She confirmed his birth in a post on her official website the next day that read, "Today is a very joyful and special day for Jordan and I as we welcome our first son into this world." She then introduced him to the world, scoring a deal with People magazine for an exclusive family photo album and magazine cover. She, moreover, also sold her baby pics to Hello! magazine. Greater than both print media, Christina took Max along for a public service announcement (PSA) for Rock the Vote campaign, which aims to engage young voters in the U.S. political process. In the PSA, Max is wrapped in an American flag and cradled in Christina's arms as she sings a lullaby version of "America the Beautiful." Christina's family outing with baby Max is caught on camera and several pictures of the moment can be seen on Gossip Girl.

 

JOHN MAYER ENDS WORLD TOUR PARTYING WITH BLONDE [Aceshowbiz, 9/2/08]

Being on the road for two months for his current summer tour of 2008, John Mayer ends the journey in style. Kicking off the world tour with a magically mellow performance at the Cruzan Amphitheater in West Palm Beach on Sunday night, August 31, the singer was seen partying with a blonde waitress, only to strengthen people's claim on his not-good-guy reputation . Having a chit chat with the press backstage, Mayer was seen later that night hanging out with an unidentified blonde waitress. The twosome were seen heading for SET, which People describes as Old Hollywood-style club, on South Beach. There on the club, Mayer and the waitress subsequently went to a private area upstairs, called Trophy Room. They then ordered drinks and enjoyed their time alone. "She kept asking him what he wanted to drink and if he liked the music," a source claimed. "They partied till about 3 A.M." Avoiding to talk about his failed relationship with actress Jennifer Aniston, John preferred to share with the audience who were attending his last gig about the book he's currently reading, which is the bestseller "The Secret". He, furthermore, even warned them about the price of fame. "People say I'm the hottest thing, part of a corporate machine. Well, I've been out here for 10 years. I don't want to have the number-one song. I want to be number eight. It's a much better place to be. Because as soon as you become fashion, as soon as you become the flavor of the day, you get crushed," so he told the concertgoers, adding "Here's my advice for you. Never fully arrive. Be a work in progress."

 

PHOTOS OF "DANCING WITH THE STARS" SEASON 7 COUPLES [Aceshowbiz, 9/1/08] 

Days after the selection of celebrity contestants for "Dancing with the Stars" season 7 was announced on "Good Morning America" on August 25, the promotional photos of the dancing couples have been put forward. Exposing the 26 paired contenders, the starry images which are available online display each of the couples in striking dancing poses. In this new season, "Dancing" fans will be presented with the teaming up of the most varied and the largest cast ensemble to date. The coupling puts Grammy Awards-winner Toni Braxton with Season One champion Alec Mazo, actress/model/reality television star Kim Kardashian with defending champ Mark Ballas, "Hannah Montana"'s Jake Ryan, Cody Linley, with two-time "Dancing with the Stars" champion Julianne Hough and Olympic gold medalist Maurice Greene with two-time champion Cheryl Burke. Other paired contestants include former NSYNC member Lance Bass with newcomer Lacey Schwimmer, beach volleyball champion Misty May-Treanor with Maksim Chmerkovskiy, celebrity chef and author Rocco DiSpirito with Karina Smirnoff, retired Superbowl Champion Warren Sapp with Kym Johnson, comedian Jeffrey Ross with Edyta Sliwinska, television star Ted McGinley with another newcomer Inna Brayer, Academy Award recipient Cloris Leachman with debutant Corky Ballas, model/TV host Brooke Burke with Derek Hough and daytime television star Susan Lucci with Tony Dovolani. Season 7 will be kicked off on September 22, 2008 and aired on ABC at 8:00 to 10:00 P.M. ET. Hosted once again by Tom Bergeron and Samantha Harris, it will still have Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli, and Carrie Ann Inaba as the judges. The result show of the first episode on September 24 will have Jonas Brothers and Jesse McCartney as the guest performers.

 

ASHLEE SIMPSON BREAKS SILENCE OVER RUMOURS SURROUNDING HER PREGNANCY [Aceshowbiz, 9/1/08]

Breaking her silence over the many negative reports surrounding her pregnancy, Ashlee Simpson is reaching to her MySpace blog to put the brake on several false rumours and set the record straight on those issues. She among others addresses on her weight and jeans. Blaming rumours on the street that she's depressed with her size, she said "I am only concerned with having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Today I read on a blog that I went to the doctor and he said I was overweight and I cried and went to Planet Blue (because I was blue) and bought 6 [pairs] of size 0 jeans. [I] have not been to Planet Blue in at least two years." She went on adding, "My doctor says I am right on target with my weight gain." Speaking of her jeans collection that she used to wear when she's not yet pregnant, the singer wrote on her blog that her husband Pete Wentz wears them. "My closet full of size 0's are being worn by Pete right now and he looks hot in them," she revealed. Putting those persistent false rumors aside, she blogged "Carrying a child is the most inspiring, emotional, amazing experience of my life. My weight and my pant size are the absolute last thing I am concerned about." She ended her blog, writing "I am only concerned with having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. People who talk and judge pregnant women's weight need to get a life!!!" Detailing on those issues, Ashlee nevertheless didn't mention on her due date and the sex of her not-yet-born baby.

 

JOSH HARTNETT CAUGHT ON CCTV WITH RANDOM LADY [Aceshowbiz, 9/1/08]

Josh Hartnett is the latest Hollywood celebrity who becomes the object of media scrutiny as his sex life has been outed by the media. The hunk, according to Daily Mirror, has a sexual encounter with a random lady in Soho Hotel's library and the romp was caught on CCTV without him or the girl knowing. "Josh and the girl were getting pretty hot and heavy," Daily Mirror quoted its mole as saying. "After stumbling in quite late, they legged it to the library and immediately closed all the curtains so that no one could see in. Unfortunately the hotel has security cameras all over the place - the library included. This means their every spit and cough was recorded, and cringing hotel workers saw all of Josh's X-rated moves." Detailing on the movie hunk's romp with the mysterious lady, the mole went on saying, "No one quite knew where to look and there was a very awkward silence. Josh didn't seem bothered that the library wasn't locked and anyone could just burst in. He just kind of went for it." In another dose of bad news, it's been claimed that a number of hotel staff watched the footage that showed the couple having sex in the hotel's library. The mole added that "After the event, someone had a quiet word in Josh's ear and he was asked to take his personal business elsewhere in future. Josh took it on the chin and didn't kick up a fuss. He's been as good as gold since." Neither Josh nor his camp has commented on the report.

 

CHRIS BROWN BOUGHT RIHANNA A BRAND NEW FERRARI F430 SPIDER [Aceshowbiz, 9/1/08]

Rumours keep mounting on Chris Brown and Rihanna's alleged romance despite their silent action whenever being asked to confirm the status of their relationship. Following report that she's looking for a home for them to live together, it's been claimed that he has bought her a brand new Ferrari that costs $250,000. MediaTakeOut.com exclusively broke report on that matter, claiming in a report on its site that he bought her a new red Ferrari F430 Spider. Verifying its report, the gossip site even quoted one of Rihanna's friends as saying that Chris took the Barbadian singer "to a Los Angeles Ferrari dealer last week and asked her which car she most wanted." MediaTakeOut.com furthermore is informed by an insider that Chris "found out which [Ferrari] that she liked the best and then he called the dealership and ordered it." Rumours were mounting last week that Rihanna and Chris are about to move in together. It was claimed that the pair have been seen hunting for a new Los Angeles condo. Star magazine even quoted eyewitnesses as claiming to have seen the alleged lovers viewing units at Beverly Hills' luxury Sierra Tower for several times since July. No words from either Chris or Rihanna on both rumors though.

 

FANTASIA BARRINO HAD SURGERY TO REMOVE TUMOR ON HER THROAT [Aceshowbiz, 9/1/08]

Gaining her prominence as the winner of the third season of the television series "American Idol" in 2004, Fantasia Barrino has been invading the world of performing, taking over the Broadway stage. Portraying the critically acclaimed Celie in the musical, "The Color Purple," it is sad to say that she was forced to take hiatus following doctor's diagnosis that she had tumor on her throat. About that she openly told Sister 2 Sister magazine, "I couldn't get enough sleep and sometimes onstage, I could taste blood ... every now and then. They (producers) would send me to the hospitals and they would say, 'Well, she's dehydrated; that's what's making her tired.' They would put IVs in me. But it just wasn't enough." Realizing that there might be something wrong with her throat, she eventually checked into a top throat doctor in Los Angeles, who then told her that she had tumor on her throat. Recalling the dark moment, the singer said "I went into surgery and he (doctor) came out and told my mother it was a tumor." Battling to stay healthy following the surgery, Fantasia admitted that she often felt drained and too tired to perform. That's why she decided to pull out of "The Color Purple." Regaining her health ever since, Fantasia however is hurt by all the negative publicity addressed to her for pulling out of the show. "It really hurt my feelings ... I told my manager, 'Please, somebody protect me,' because I've never missed a show ... I like to perform," so she revealed. "I felt like, after I had my surgery, nobody knew about it. The Color Purple didn't know about it, my record company didn't know about it, and I was very hurt that ... I wasn't receiving any flowers, any balloons." Fantasia sparked speculation that she's pregnant when she pulled out of "The Color Purple" early this year with no explanation. Her publicist simply told the media that Fantasia was unwell. Her withdrawal from the show reportedly forced the producers to give back tens of thousands of dollars in refunds.

 

EXPECTANT COUPLE CHARLIE SHEEN AND BROOK MUELLER [Aceshowbiz, 9/1/08]

Expecting their first child together, Charlie Sheen and his new wife Brooke Mueller are thinking that they're going to have a baby boy. The pair openly admitted that they're hoping to have a boy, telling People at the opening of Yellowtail Sushi Restaurant in Las Vegas on Friday, August 29 that the odds of them having a son are in their favor since he has had three daughters from previous relationships. The TV actor even is "batting 100 percent" that he and Mueller will be decorating the nursery with baseballs and not Barbie dolls. "Odds are it's a boy, but we'll be happy with either sex," so she said further. Sheen went on adding, "We're just hoping for a healthy baby, but there's a chance (for a boy) - odds are positive." Sheen has two daughters from his marriage to actress Denise Richards, they are Sam and Lola. His other daughter from his first marriage to model Donna Peele is named Cassandra. Sheen and Mueller, a real estate investor, walked down the aisle at a private estate in the gated Los Angeles community of Beverly Park on May 30, 2008. Last Monday, August 25, the pair announced to the press that they're expecting their first child together. "Brooke and I are thrilled!" so he said about her pregnancy. No word yet on Mueller's due date or how far along she is in her pregnancy.

 

AMY WINEHOUSE TO FACE LEGAL THREAT FOR SHOW CANCELLATION [Aceshowbiz, 9/1/08]

Following her sudden withdrawal from a French festival, Amy Winehouse is on the verge of facing a legal action from the organizers. BBC reported that the people behind Rock En Seine are considering to sue the singer regarding her last-minute pullout on Friday, August 29, 2008. The organizers claimed that they were only informed of her absence two hours before the show went off. Winehouse's camp cited health concern as a reason, saying that she has taken ill at her home although paramedics claimed that they have not been summoned to her house in London on that day. Later on, her spokesperson said that she is recovering at home and required no hospital admittance. Organizers then had to put up the announcement that states "We are very sorry about this situation and share the disappointment of the festival-goers," on their official site. A spokesperson for the festival however, refused to give out further comment on the legal threat. Winehouse is scheduled to play at Bestival festival on the Isle of Wight on September 6, 2008.

 

SINGER EDWYN COLLINS DISPLAYS ART [BBC New, 9/1/08]

Pop star Edwyn Collins will reveal pictures he drew while recovering from a double brain haemorrhage in 2005, at an art exhibition in London. The 48-year-old singer, best known for hit track A Girl Like You, was inspired by The History Of British Birds. Collins, who performed at Glastonbury Festival in June, re-discovered his love of art by keeping a diary of his recovery and drawing a bird every day. The sketches will be displayed at London's Smithfield Gallery in October, 2008.  Collins was a leading figure on the alternative Scottish scene in the late 1970s and 1980s, forming his first band, Nu-Sonics, when he was 17. They became Orange Juice, who briefly broke into the mainstream with Rip It Up in 1983. He went on to pursue a solo career, making an impact with A Girl Like You, a Top 10 hit in seven countries in 1995. The Scottish performer suffered two brain haemorrhages in 2005. He subsequently spent six months in hospital after a surgical scar became infected with the MRSA bug. Collins released his sixth solo album in September last year. A BBC documentary, Edwyn Collins: Home Again, following his recovery from illness, was broadcast earlier this year.

 

FANS QUEUE TO SNAG TICKETS TO SEE OPRAH, OLYMPIANS [AP, 8/31/08]

Fans began lining up at 6 a.m. Saturday (Aug. 30) for a chance to snag free tickets to "The Oprah Winfrey Show" season premiere featuring 150 U.S. Olympic athletes. By noon, the line of Winfrey fans and U.S. Olympic supporters stretched nearly six city blocks in Chicago's Millennium Park. The show will air Sept. 8 and include appearances by gold medalists Michael Phelps, Nastia Liukin and Kobe Bryant. Tickets for the Winfrey's tapings are usually available only by phone and nearly impossible to get, so fans were itching for the 2,000 seats up for grabs for Wednesday's taping. "We do love Oprah," said 20-year-old Loyola University student Grace Sutherland, who left her apartment at 4 a.m. to wait in line. "But the Olympic athletes, they are real role models. This is the America we like to see." Jeanne Kaspar, 40, of Naperville, Ill., said that although the Olympians are inspiring, Winfrey's accomplishments will resonate long after the athletes' successes are forgotten. "Oprah shattered the glass ceiling for women," Kaspar said. "She's shown a woman can run companies, can lead philanthropic organizations, can do really anything." Organizers began passing out tickets at noon Saturday. For those unable to get tickets Saturday, approximately 7,000 festival-style lawn seats would be available Wednesday, said Monica Cebula, special events coordinator for Millennium Park. Another 2,000 seats have been set aside for the Olympians' families and friends. Winfrey's Harpo Productions said the show is a "welcome home celebration" for the athletes and a chance to feature Chicago in the city's bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics. Chicago is a finalist for the 2016 games along with Tokyo; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and Madrid, Spain. The International Olympic Committee will choose the 2016 host next year.

 

JOHNNY DEPP PLAYS LIKE A "KID" AGAIN [E! Online, 8/31/08]

Johnny Depp returned to his musical roots Friday (Aug. 29) night, reuniting with his old band The Kids for a fund-raiser in Florida. With his girlfriend, Vanessa Paradis, and their 9-year-old daughter, Lily-Rose, screaming in the crowd of 2,500, the Oscar-nominated actor strapped on a guitar and sang backup vocals during the power-pop group's 90-minute set. The second annual Sheila Witkin Memorial Reunion Concert honors The Kids' late manager, who was well known in South Florida's music scene. All proceeds from the benefit go to the Dan Marino Foundation, which funds programs for children with special needs. The band also reunited in January 2007 for the same cause. The 45-year-old actor joined The Kids when he was a high school student in Miramar, Fla., and moved to Los Angeles with them in search of a record deal. After the band broke up, Depp decided to pursue a career in acting. Johnny and the boys are scheduled to rock out again tonight on day two of the benefit.

 

KEVIN CONNOLLY HUMBLED BY MICHAEL PHELPS PHENOMENON [E! Online, 8/31/08]

The Phelpsian frenzy shows no sign of slowing down. When Michael Phelps shot an impromptu cameo for the new season of Entourage this week, the HBO comedy's fab four got a taste of what hanging out with the original Fab Four might have been like. "It was like being in New York City with one of the Beatles," Kevin Connolly told E! News Friday (Aug. 29) about shooting a scene with the 14-time Olympic gold medalist, who's been the toast of seemingly every town since returning to the U.S. from Beijing. "People were stopping in the streets and climbing up things to see him. They were going nuts. He's like a superstar." "It was fun," albeit "pretty humbling," added the actor, whose hit HBO show has its fifth-season premiere Sept. 7, 2008. The Entourage spot, of course, was only the tip of the iceberg for Phelps, who has also lined up a Sept. 13 hosting gig on Saturday Night Live, presenting duty at the MTV Video Music Awards Sept. 7 and, now, the season premiere of The Oprah Winfrey Show. He'll appear with about 150 other members of the U.S. Olympic team, including NBA star Kobe Bryant, gymnast Nastia Liukin, beach volleyball champs Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh and swimmer Dara Torres. The episode is set to tape Wednesday (Sept. 3) at Millennium Park in Chicago, which is hoping to be the home of the 2016 Summer Olympics, and will air Sept. 8, 2008. So, the America's Homecoming Parade that Disney World held for the star swimmer today in Orlando was really more like the unofficial launch party for Michael Phelps Month, aka September. And yet, through it all, the 23-year-old Baltimore native still seems to be most comfortable in his old splashing grounds of Any Pool U.S.A. After a whirlwind Thursday (Aug. 28) that included the Entourage shoot, an appearance on Good Morning America and a bunch of other interviews, Phelps looked most at ease when he slipped into the pool at the McBurney YMCA in Manhattan to present a $20,000 check on behalf of megasponsor Visa to the Partnership for Play Every Day, which promotes the importance of regular recreation time for kids. "For America's kids, the time to play and swim is today," Phelps said. "We need everyone's help in providing all kids with safe and well-equipped spaces where they can exercise, have fun and maybe even begin to pursue their own Olympic dreams." "He was a trooper," an event rep told E! News. "From the look on his face, being in that pool was the highlight of his day. All the stress just melted away."

 

"SOPRANOS" STAR GANDOLFINI WEDS IN HAWAII [Reuters, 8/31/08]

"The Sopranos" star James Gandolfini married his girlfriend in Hawaii on Saturday (Aug. 30), People magazine said. The 46-year-old actor tied the knot with Deborah Lin, 40, during a 20-minute church ceremony in her hometown of Honolulu, People said, attributing its report to an unidentified guest. It marks the second marriage for Gandolfini, who won three Emmy Awards for his lead role as conflicted New Jersey mobster Tony Soprano in the acclaimed HBO crime drama "The Sopranos."

 

JENNIFER ANISTON TO GUEST ON "30 ROCK" [E! Online, 8/31/08]

Wow. Holy TV goodness! Jennifer Aniston will be returning to NBC's Must-See Thursday this fall, appearing in an episode of NBC's 30 Rock. "She is shooting now," her publicist, Stephen Huvane tells me exclusively. "We are not giving any specifics on her character." Given the Saturday Night Live-esque nature of the series, Aniston could be playing either herself or a scripted character. As soon as we have more details, we will post them right here. Aniston is actually the second Friends alum to come on the series? David Schwimmer also guested as Greenzo during last season's environmental episode. And the show's astounding seven guest-star Emmy nominations this year clearly provided good motivation for Aniston to get back in the Must-See game. The new season of 30 Rock premieres Oct. 30, 2008, when the series also welcomes back Emmy nominee Will Arnett, as I first reported. Jennifer will most likely appear in the first or second episode of the season.

 

HOLLYWOOD PI FOUND GUILTY OF WIRETAPPING [CBC, 8/30/08]

Hollywood private investigator Anthony Pellicano has been convicted by a jury of wiretapping and conspiracy to commit wiretapping. The conviction Friday (Aug. 29) relates to the secret tapping of phone conversations of billionaire investor Kirk Kerkorian's ex-wife, Lisa Bonder Kerkorian. MGM executive Kerkorian was alleged to have asked for an investigation of his ex-wife in an effort to prove he was not the father of her daughter. Entertainment lawyer Terry Christensen was convicted of aiding and abetting a wiretap. Pellicano — who dug up dirt to use in lawsuits, divorces and contract disputes brought against his wealthy and occasionally famous clients — was convicted in May on 76 out of 77 charges of racketeering after a trial that exposed the seamy underside to Hollywood. He was accused of wiretapping stars such as Sylvester Stallone, and running the names of others, including as Gary Shandling and Kevin Nealon, through law enforcement databases in an effort to get dirt on them. Fourteen other Hollywood figures, including entertainment lawyers, were also charged. Pellicano, 64 will be sentenced Nov. 17, 2008 and could face up to 10 years in prison on the fresh conviction.

 

LeANN RIMES AND HUBBY DEAN SHEREMET TO RENEW WEDDING VOWS [Aceshowbiz, 8/30/08]

Having been married for six years, LeAnn Rimes and her husband Dean Sheremet reportedly are planning to renew their wedding vows. It remains sketchy on why the couple decided to do so. Yet, it's been reported that they will do it this weekend.  In Touch Weekly broke the news, claiming in a report on its site that Rimes and Dean are going to wed again on Saturday, August 30 at the Calistoga Ranch in the Napa Valley, California. The couple have yet confirmed the report and there have yet words on the people who are going to be invited to attend the event. Rimes and Dean first met in 2000 when he was cast to dance during her performance when she hosted the 2001 Academy of Country Music Awards. They originally exchanged vows on February 23, 2002. No children just yet for them. Aside from her love life, Rimes is currently touring with country superstar Kenny Chesney. She's in hand opening every show on his 2008 Poets and Pirates Tour along with other artists on select dates. She reportedly had planned to return to the studio in July 2008 to begin recording a brand new album. She's said to have written many songs for it.

 

PINK TO PERFORM AT 2008 ARIA MUSIC AWARDS [Aceshowbiz, 8/30/08]

Pink is on full throttle to promote her upcoming effort which will be titled "Funhouse". Beside being scheduled to sing "So What" at 2008 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles on September 7, she will also play the same song in Australia. The singer has been lined-up as one of the performers at this year's ARIA Music Awards. The Australian annual awards show will be held on October 19, 2008 at Sydney's Olympic Park and the nominees will be announced on September 10, the same day tickets for general public will go on sale. The performance is only one part of her promotional appearances in Australia. She will return to the country in April 2009 for a supporting tour. "So What" is the first single from "Funhouse", her fourth studio album which is slated to hit the U.S. stores on October 28 and Australian shelves 3 days prior. ARIA Awards appreciate music figures and their works and has been touted as the Grammy of Australia. Previous years winners include Kylie Minogue, Silverchair, Savage Garden and Delta Goodrem.

 

USHER TO PERFORM AT NFL SEASON KICKOFF CONCERT [Aceshowbiz, 8/30/08]

R'n'B superstar Usher is lending his voice in the kickoff celebration for the new NFL season. The 29-year-old performer has been set to perform at a concert held at Columbus Circle in New York on Thursday, September 4 alongside other big name musicians, including Natasha Bedingfield and Keith Urban. Confirming his appearance in the special event, Usher confessed that his participation is his way to be the halftime entertainment at the 2009 Super Bowl. "I'm hoping that this leads, definitely, to that," he said. "This whole process is basically you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours." In the concert, he will be accompanied by Black Eyed Peas' will.i.am and performing three songs, "Here I Stand", "Changing Places" and "What's Your Name". On him eyeing the forthcoming Super Bowl which will be held in February 2009, he explained to the Associated Press, "I don't think it's too early to consider it. Certainly being associated with the organization makes that a lot more possible. There have been conversations for a lot of years about me being part of a performance at a Super Bowl." The afternoon concert itself is going to be started from 3 P.M. just before the Washington Redskins challenge the Super Bowl champion New York Giants as the season opener game. It will be streamed on NFL.com.

 

TAYLOR SWIFT "FEARLESS" ARTWORK REVEALED [Aceshowbiz, 8/30/08]

Taylor Swift has exclusively revealed the artwork for her upcoming sophomore effort "Fearless", which will hit the stores on November 11, 2008 via Big Machine Records. Eleven tracks in the album are all either written or co-written by Taylor herself. She even goes into the production table with Nathan Chapman for her first single "Love Story", which will reportedly arrive on radios in early September. As part of the promotion project, Taylor provides fans with three pre-order options on her official website. At the top level, the CD will come out in a limited edition collector box which includes a leather bracelet, T-shirt, photo book, "Taylor Nation" sticker, and locker poster. Besides that, one lucky fan who purchases the $75 package, will also have a chance to win an "Ultimate Taylor Swift Fan Experience", that includes an autographed guitar and two airplane tickets for her meet-and-greet show. For the second option, the CD can be purchased with a total price of $40 per CD and the first 10,000 buyers will get an opportunity to have their photo in a special mosaic, that will be included in the album packaging. Meanwhile, Fans can also pre-order the CD for a much lower price with only $13.88 but no poster is offered.

 

DANNII MINOGUE TRADES MIKE WITH GUN IN "CROSSED" [Aceshowbiz, 8/30/08]

Australian pop singer-turned-"X Factor" host, Dannii Minogue, is up for another feature film role. According to Ananova, the younger sister of famed songstress Kylie Minogue has been signed in to star as Rio Ruse, an MI6 agent who is also a lab technician in British spy thriller entitled "Vauxhall Crossed". Though her role is reportedly a small one, it will still have some significant effects to the plot as Ruse is set to save fellow agent played by Hugo Speer in a shoot-out. This part won't be Minogue's first experience starring in a movie as she has minor role in Jan Wentz's 2004 "The Porter". Minogue will be joining the cast that include also Ewen MacIntosh and Sarah Jayne Dunn. Aside from Minogue and other actors rumored to be involved, it is said that the producers are considering to cast Sienna Miller's former boyfriend, Rhys Ifans, to be the psychotic villain. On the movie itself, "Crossed" is scripted by Ben Trebilcook who also serves as producer along with Jeff Ross.

 

SINGER WINEHOUSE FALLS ILL, MISSES PARIS CONCERT [Reuters/AP, 8/30/08]

British soul singer Amy Winehouse pulled out of a Paris concert at short notice on Friday after falling ill at home in London, her spokesman has said. The 24-year-old, whose battle against drug addiction has overshadowed her recording successes, had been due to appear at the Rock En Seine festival in Paris. "Amy Winehouse was regrettably unable to perform at the Rock En Seine show in Paris due to illness," her spokesman said in a statement late on Friday. "She was taken ill at her house and wasn't able to travel to France for the concert." During the last three months Winehouse has twice been rushed to hospital, most recently after suffering a reaction to her medication. Her father has said Winehouse is suffering from the lung disease emphysema. Winehouse's husband, Blake Fielder-Civil, was jailed recently after pleading guilty to beating up a pub landlord in 2006 and conspiring to cover up the crime. The singer is due to appear at the Bestival festival on the Isle of Wight next weekend.

 

"DANGEROUS" No. 5 ON BILLBOARD HOT 100 [Klassic Magazine, 8/28/08]

Dangerous, the track written by R&B superstar Akon with a unique rap-style by Toronto's own Kardinal Offishall has hit No. 5 on Billboard Hot 100 Music Chart. 

 

PHELPS A PRESENTER AT VMA AND HOST SNL [Reuters/AP, 8/29/08]

He does comedy, writes books, mixes it up with the hottest stars in music and Hollywood. With all this, who needs swimming? Certainly not Michael Phelps — not anymore, at least. But as a presenter at the 2008 Video Music Awards, all that fresh Olympic bling will certainly help. The swimmer who took home a record-breaking eight gold medals from the Beijing Games joins Miley Cyrus, Lindsay Lohan and Ciara as presenters at the Sept. 7, 2008 VMAs telecast from Los Angeles. British comedian Russell Brand will host. It's been a busy week for Phelps, who announced he'll write a book about his road to Olympic history (to be released in time for the holidays) and plans to host the 34th season premiere of "Saturday Night Live." Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale and Corbin Bleu of the "High School Musical" franchise will also present at the VMAs, as will "Twilight" actors Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner, MTV said Thursday. The network also announced performers Katy Perry, T-Pain, Lupe Fiasco and The Ting Tings. Performers already announced include Rihanna, Pink, Paramore and T.I., who will be making his first appearance at a major awards show since his arrest right before an awards ceremony last year. The Jonas Brothers, Lil Wayne and Kid Rock are also scheduled to do their thing onstage. Phelps is a guest on NBC's "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" on September 8, 2008, and the network picked up the broadcast rights to the 2009 World Swimming Championship, in which Phelps will compete.

 

DALAI LAMA IS 'STABLE', NO CAUSE FOR CONCERN [AFP, 8/29/08]

Exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama is in a stable condition and there is no cause for concern over his health, the private Indian hospital to which he was admitted said Friday (Aug. 29). The 73-year-old spiritual leader was taken to hospital in India's financial hub on Thursday after suffering from exhaustion and complaining of "abdominal discomfort," according to his spokesman. The hospital said he was undergoing tests. "He is stable, there is no cause for concern," Lilavati hospital spokesman Mohan Rajan told AFP. "The tests are in progress." "His holiness is suffering some abdominal discomfort," the Dalai Lama's spokesman Tenzin Takla added. "He is not in the intensive care unit. He is in a reserved room." According to a statement from his office in in Dharamshala, the northern India base of the Tibetan exiles' movement, "all that he needs is a good rest." The statement also said there was "absolutely no cause for concern." In recent weeks the Dalai Lama has been pursuing a gruelling travel itinerary as he campaigned for improved human rights in Tibet while China readied to host the Olympic Games in Beijing that ended on August 24, 2008.

 

MICHAEL JACKSON AT 50: "THE BEST IS YET TO COME" [AP, 8/29/08]

Michael Jackson celebrated his 50th birthday Friday (Aug. 29), but he's still young at heart. "I'll just have a little cake with my children and we'll probably watch some cartoons," the pop star said in an interview with ABC News' "Good Morning America." Jackson talked by phone with ABC on Thursday. Jackson, a twice-divorced father of three, said he aims to provide a normal life for his children. "I am letting them enjoy their childhood as much as possible. ... I let them go to the arcade and go to the movies and do things. I think that comes naturally. I want them to get to do things I didn't get to do," he said. "I get pretty emotional when I see them having a wonderful time," he said. As for his career, Jackson said he's "looking forward to doing a lot of great things. ... I think the best is yet to come in my true humble opinion." He said recording the blockbuster albums "Thriller" and "Off the Wall" were the happiest times of his life. "That meant very much to me and seemed to be received so beautifully by the public and the world. You know, I enjoyed it very much," he said. Jackson was asked if he had received a card from AARP, which focuses on the needs and concerns of those 50 and older. "Not that I know of!" he said, laughing.

 

KEIRA KNIGHTLEY OPENS UP ABOUT SEX SCENE IN "THE DUCHESS" [Aceshowbiz, 8/29/08]

Acting picky when it comes to strip off on screen, Keira Knightley has agreed to appear in intimate love scenes for her new role in the forthcoming big screen movie "The Duchess." Playing the lead character, Georgiana Spencer, she willingly shares her experience filming love scenes for the flick with co-star Dominic Cooper. She discusses almost everything, from the costumes to her opinion about having sex in front of the camera. Claiming the dresses she had to wear during the shooting as "an absolute nightmare" because the authentic 18th century costumes were too tight for her, she nevertheless found them helpful too. "It kind of helps because if you're feeling at all emotional then it makes it ten times worse as you can't catch your breath, so that helps in playing the scene," so she told MTV UK. "The Duchess," which is of drama genre, is based on Amanda Foreman's best selling biography of Georgiana, the Duchess of Devonshire. The film follows the story of Keira's role Georgiana, the Fifth Duchess of Devonshire, who has an unhappy marriage with an older aristocrat and later on falls in love with Charles Grey, Dominic's role. The flick is slated to be released in the U.S. on September 19 and in the U.K. on September 5, 2008.

 

MICHAEL JACKSON'S RECORD UP FOR EXCLUSIVE AUCTION [Aceshowbiz, 8/29/08]

A promo CD for Michael Jackson's not-yet-titled record has gone on eBay website for an exclusive purchase. An executive from Sony BMG says that the promo CD is a mega-rare edition. "This promo CD is one of the rarest Michael Jackson items in existence, only 10 are said to exist and this is the first time one has been on eBay," the Sony boss states. The CD contains an early demo of an unreleased Michael's song, "Men In Black", which was planned to be listed on his 1991 eight studio album "Dangerous" but later had to be shelved and was never leaked ever since. "The most interesting track on the CD is 'Men In Black' (not related to the films staring Will Smith), the executive staff of Sony says. Furthermore, the CD has also carried alternative versions of "Black or White" and "Too Much Monkey Business". Additionally, his legendary album "Thriller" has been added to the U.S. National Recording Registry, an organization to preserve records for future generations. Every year the organisation chooses music record to be added to the country's official archive, and this year Michael's music in "Thriller" is deemed as a culturally and aesthetically significant music. Another news says that Michael has just released an online game contest which allows users of Facebook, MySpace, and Bebo to control a replica of the singer and direct his trademark moves. A lucky winner will get two round-the-world plane tickets while iPods will be given out daily.

 

BRAD PITT SAVES YOUNG AUTOGRAPH SEEKER FROM NEARLY DROWNING [Aceshowbiz, 8/29/08]

Promoting his latest big screen flick "Burn After Reading" at the Venice Film Festival, Brad Pitt plays a real life hero when he saves a young autograph seeker from falling into the lake. The movie hunk was just arriving at the 65th annual Italian festival on board of a boat Wednesday, August 27 with best friend and co-star George Clooney when he agreed to sign autographs for a group of young fans. It was during that time that one of the young autograph hunters slipped and nearly fell into the water. Pitt who happened to be near the victim was quick to respond, grabbing the fan, preventing him from falling into the lake. He then made sure that the fan was safely back on the boat before signing a book. A throng of paparazzi who swarmed Pitt witnessed the incident. Pitt himself quickly dashed off into the limelight, heading for the red carpet. Pitt's heroine action was first reported by TMZ, which features a footage of the incident on its site.

 

THE LOHAN FAMILY HAS SUFFERED A LOSS [Aceshowbiz, 8/29/08]

Richard Lohan, Lindsay Lohan's paternal grandfather, died Thursday (Aug. 28) after a battle with colon cancer, E! News has confirmed. In an interview Tuesday, dad Michael Lohan told E! that his 73-year-old father's declining health as the "real reason" he wasn't making a big deal out of his recent engagement to longtime girlfriend Erin Muller. Richard had been in failing health for some time, with Michael saying in March that the cancer had spread to his lungs. Lindsay had made plans to visit her granddad, who was hospitalized in Long Island, N.Y., over the Easter holiday. And although arrangements surely have to be made, Michael still managed to use the opportunity to take another swipe at ex-wife Dina Lohan, who he has publicly accused of being a "two-face" for supposedly fretting about Lindsay's lifestyle around him and then acting as if everything is fine-and-dandy around their daughter. Dina Lohan has yet to respond to Michael's recent slings and arrows, although Lindsay and gal-pal Samantha Ronson took time out to blog yesterday about his "concern" for their relationship. "If he really cared about me and my life, then he would learn to respect my wishes by staying out of it," Lindsay wrote, while Ronson called Michael "so desperate for attention that he goes to the media whenever possible."

 

PHELPS A PRESENTER AT VMA AND HOST SNL [Reuters/AP, 8/29/08]

He does comedy, writes books, mixes it up with the hottest stars in music and Hollywood. With all this, who needs swimming? Certainly not Michael Phelps — not anymore, at least. But as a presenter at the 2008 Video Music Awards, all that fresh Olympic bling will certainly help. The swimmer who took home a record-breaking eight gold medals from the Beijing Games joins Miley Cyrus, Lindsay Lohan and Ciara as presenters at the Sept. 7, 2008 VMAs telecast from Los Angeles. British comedian Russell Brand will host. It's been a busy week for Phelps, who announced he'll write a book about his road to Olympic history (to be released in time for the holidays) and plans to host the 34th season premiere of "Saturday Night Live." Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale and Corbin Bleu of the "High School Musical" franchise will also present at the VMAs, as will "Twilight" actors Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner, MTV said Thursday. The network also announced performers Katy Perry, T-Pain, Lupe Fiasco and The Ting Tings. Performers already announced include Rihanna, Pink, Paramore and T.I., who will be making his first appearance at a major awards show since his arrest right before an awards ceremony last year. The Jonas Brothers, Lil Wayne and Kid Rock are also scheduled to do their thing onstage. Phelps is a guest on NBC's "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" on September 8, 2008, and the network picked up the broadcast rights to the 2009 World Swimming Championship, in which Phelps will compete.

 

DAVID DUCHOVNY IN REHAB FOR SEX ADDICTION [AP, 8/29/08]

David Duchovny has entered a rehabilitation facility for sex addiction. In a statement released Thursday (Aug. 28) by his lawyer, Stanton Stein, the actor said he did so voluntarily, adding: "I ask for respect and privacy for my wife and children as we deal with this situation as a family." The actor's publicist, Flo Grace, confirmed the rehab report, which first appeared on People.com. She and Stein both declined to elaborate further. Duchovny, 48, plays a sex-obsessed character on the Showtime series "Californication," which earned Emmy nominations for casting and cinematography. The show's second season begins Sept. 28, 2008. Showtime had no comment Thursday. The actor appeared in the film "The X Files: I Want to Believe" earlier this summer. He has been married to actress Tea Leoni since 1997. They have two children.

 

RAPPER DMX GUILTY OF TRYING TO BUY DRUGS [E! Online, 8/29/08]

Rap star DMX pleaded guilty to trying to buy cocaine and marijuana in Miami and was awaiting extradition to Arizona on outstanding drug charges there, his lawyer said on Thursday (Aug. 28). The rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, entered the plea on Wednesday in Miami-Dade Circuit Court and was sentenced to time served, said his lawyer Bradford Cohen. He was jailed two or three days after his July arrest on a charge of trying to buy illegal drugs from an undercover police officer during a street corner sting, Cohen said. Simmons was initially released on bond on the Florida charge, but was arrested two weeks ago on the outstanding warrant from Arizona during a traffic check outside a Wal-Mart store and then denied bond. Rather than stay jailed until after a trial set for October, he pleaded guilty in the Florida case and agreed to be extradited to Arizona, where he expects to be released on bond, Cohen said. "He got shafted on this one," said Cohen, who said the evidence in the Florida drug sting was weak and flawed. Simmons has a home in Arizona and missed a court hearing there on charges of possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia. He also faces animal cruelty charges stemming from the discovery of dog carcasses and malnourished dogs on his property near Phoenix.

 

BRAD & GEORGE TAKE BROMANCE TO VENICE [E! Online, 8/28/08]

Angelina Jolie is obviously secure enough in her relationship with Brad Pitt to stay back in France while her man hangs out with buddy George Clooney at the 65th Annual Venice Film Festival. After all, the good pals have been practically inseparable since arriving Tuesday. First, they hung out together at last night's Not On Our Watch charity event to raise funds for victims in the Darfur region of Sudan. Then on Wednesday, the two got all jokey with the media—and each other—during a press conference for their dark comedy, Burn After Reading. Following Brad's response that "the twins are fine" when he was asked about newborns Vivienne and Knox, George was then grilled if he planned on settling down and having kids himself..."I am so surprised to hear that question," he quipped. "This honestly is the first time I've ever been asked that question. I'm getting married and having children today. Brad?" "And until then I'll be sharing mine with him," piped Brad. "I'll have two more by next year." Aw, you guys are just too cute together. We promise we won't tell Angie.

 

CUBA GOODING JR. TO PLAY "GIFTED" DOCTOR [Reuters/Hollywood Reporter, 8/28/08]

Cuba Gooding Jr. will portray a real-life neurologist in "Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story," a TNT original movie that will air under the Johnson & Johnson Spotlight Presentation banner. The movie, based on Carson's memoir, will trace his journey from frustrated inner-city kid to director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins University Hospital. It will air in the first quarter of 2009. Thomas Carter, who directed the feature film "Coach Carter," which also was based on a true story, will direct from a script by John Pielmeier. Carson's memoir, which he wrote with Cecil Murphey, describes his childhood in a rough neighborhood of Detroit and his difficulties after his father "abandoned the family." Encouraged by his mother, Carson wrote, he pushed himself to succeed in school even when faced with prejudice and negative peer pressure. His accomplishments led him to be named a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which President Bush bestowed on Carson at a ceremony in June. Gooding, an Oscar winner for "Jerry Maguire," had screen roles recently in "American Gangster" and the independent film "Harold."

 

MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY'S FATHER DIED DURING SEX [Aceshowbiz, 8/28/08]

The mother of movie hunk Matthew McConaughey is cashing in on her sons' fame by releasing a new book. Just like any other books that are written by the mothers of famous celebrities, the one of Kay McConaughey is a tell all. In the book, titled "I Amaze Myself", she talks about everything, from her son's conception to her sex life with his father, James Donald McConaughey, who died in 1992 of heart attack. Kay said in her book that she got pregnant with Matthew shortly after marrying his dad for the third time. "I was deciding, 'Do I want to have another baby? Do I want to have an affair? Or go back to school?'" she said. "That's when Matthew was conceived. We had tried for 16 years and no baby. So Matthew was a big surprise!" Dishing on her late hubby, Kay openly revealed that he died while they were having sex. "On Monday mornings, he and I often said goodbye by making love, but one day, all of a sudden, it just happened. I knew that something was wrong, because I didn't hear anything from him. Just nothing. But it was just the best way to go," she recalled. And when she realized that James couldn't be revived, Kay made sure the paramedics took him from the house in the nude. "I was just so proud to show off my big old Jim McConaughey - and his gift," so she said reasoning on her decision to do so. No words from Matthew about his mother's new book. The father of one was last caught on camera enjoying an outing on the beach with his model girlfriend Camila Alves and their son Levi Alves McConaughey over the weekend.

 

SUPERMODEL KATE MOSS BARES ALL FOR MAGAZINE [Aceshowbiz, 8/28/08]

Being a supermodel, Kate Moss is no stranger to posing raunchy for photographers. Giving nudity a whole new meaning, she bravely takes her clothes off, baring all for the September issue of U.S. magazine Interview. Covering up her long blonde hair with a short platinum blonde wig, the catwalk beauty strikes some sexy poses in a series of black-and-white photos, taken by notable photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott. One of her provocative pics that hit the web shows her leaning on a wall, posing in a "high-leg leotard and bizarre metal belt." She's also snapped baring her breast, wearing only what appeared to be a black fishnet stocking. Topping all her sexy photos inside the magazine is the one that shows her baring all, wearing nothing but a pair of gloves. The pic features Moss lifting her right hand up on her head with her left hand covering her modesty. Besides posing for those pics, Moss also has a tell-all interview with the magazine, spilling the beans on such issues, as men in common according to her opinion, her sex life in her thirties, and daughter Lila Grace. She as well uses the interview as a media to deny rumors that she's anorexic.

 

CHARLIZE: YES TO POLITICS, NO TO MARRIAGE [E! Online, 8/28/08]

Charlize Theron and her boyfriend, Stuart Townsend, have no problem walking the red carpet at the DNC in Denver to promote his movie, Battle in Seattle—but walking down the aisle is a whole other story. E! News caught up with Townsend Tuesday (Aug. 26) at a screening of the political film he directed and quizzed him on whether he and Theron, both Obama supporters, would now marry, given that Theron once said that she wouldn't wed until gay marriage was legalized. (California has legalized same-sex unions.) "I think she said 'nationwide,' " Townsend joked. "I don't think she mentioned 'state.' I want everyone to know that was her thing. I do believe that if you love someone you should be able to get married, but it's got nothing to do with my life or her life." Laughing, he added, "I love her. What more do you want? We are happy. Leave us alone!"

 

TILDA SWINTON DIGS IN FOR CHARITY IN VENICE [AP, 8/28/08]

It wasn't as easy as it looked. Tilda Swinton's first attempt at making clay impressions of her hands — part of a fundraising effort to help restore Venice's St. Mark's Square — barely left a print. "It's going to look like a bird's hand," the Oscar-winning actress said Wednesday (Aug. 27) after successfully pressing her hands deeper into the clay. She then scratched her name on the tablet, adding a heart shape for flourish. Palm prints of the stars are being collected at the Venice Film Festival by the Italian automaker Lancia, and will be auctioned on e-Bay to raise funds to restore St. Mark's Square. Swinton stars with George Clooney and Brad Pitt in Ethan and Joel Coen's "Burn After Reading," which was being shown at the Venice festival. The filmmaking brothers did their own prints on a joint slab. Swinton won a supporting-actress Oscar for "Michael Clayton."

 

JESSICA: TONY ROMO THE NEW LOVE OF MY LIFE [E! Online, 8/28/08]

Jessica Simpson gets a cover story in the upcoming People dedicated to how in love the reinvented country star is at the moment. In fact, she's so in love right now, she doesn't journal in black notebooks anymore—she uses pink and white ones. The interview was like any other chronicling her love life, because that's all this girl seems to be about. Divorcing Nick Lachey was sad times, dating John Mayer was weird and Tony Romo is currently perfect. About this perfect man, she has this to declare: "I just told him today, 'You're the love of my life.'" Last time she said that about someone, it ended one of MTV's greatest reality shows. But hey, she goes on to say her e-mail address and phone number have been changed to avoid any contact with the dreaded exes, so maybe we should just forget about them, too. See, we really just want Jess to be happy—because when she's happy, we're happy. When she's sad, we journal in black notebooks along with her, and when she wears a corset under her cowboy shirt at state fairs, we definitely do that, too. And best of luck to you, Tony! Now that she's confessed in the article to picking out your clothes, you're gonna need it.

 

WOODY'S SCARLETT FEVER COOLING FOR JEN? [E! Online, 8/28/08]

Is Woody Allen's Scarlett Johansson obsession sliding into a Friends fetish? Perhaps, as Allen may be courting Jennifer Aniston for an upcoming film. Allen and Aniston, joined by his wife Soon Yi, were spotted dining at Beverly Hills staple Madeo last night. There's speculation Allen may be interested in featuring Aniston in a forthcoming project, and E! News can confirm that Woody indeed has a new film brewing. "It's top secret, we've barely heard anything," industry sources tell us. "But he's definitely writing it." The untitled project, currently slated for a Fall 2009 release, is currently in a drafting phase, yet production notes indicate that the film is a romance. The last time audiences saw Aniston tackle a romantic lead was in Rob Reiner's disastrous Rumor Has It... in 2005. The 39-year-old actress will take another crack at the genre this Christmas with the forthcoming Marley & Me, alongside Owen Wilson. The film would be the first collaboration between Aniston and the acclaimed director.

 

BIANCA JAGGER LOSES 200,000-EURO RING IN AUSTRIA [AFP, 8/27/08]

Human rights activist Bianca Jagger lost a 200,000-euro ($295,000) ring over the weekend in Salzburg while attending an annual music festival, Austrian media reported Wednesday (Aug. 27). The former wife of Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger said she had noticed the ring was missing as she left a hotel in a taxi. Jagger apparently insisted the precious platinum-and-aquamarine ring, which she had designed herself, was lost in the street, according to the daily Salzburger Nachrichten. "Ms Jagger expressly said she had lost the ring and that this wasn't a theft," Karl-Heinz Wochermayr from the Salzburg police told the newspaper.

 

'SUGE' KNIGHT ARRESTED IN VEGAS DRUG, ASSAULT CASE [AP, 8/27/08]

Police say rap music mogul Marion "Suge" Knight is in a Las Vegas jail on drug and assault charges after he was accused of beating his girlfriend while brandishing a knife. The 43-year-old Knight was arrested Wednesday (Aug. 27) on charges of assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a controlled substance, possession of dangerous drugs without a prescription and battery domestic violence. Police responding to a report of a car hitting a curb near the Las Vegas Strip say they found Knight standing over his longtime girlfriend with a knife in his hand. Police say the woman tried to run from the car, but Knight grabbed her. He's accused of having the drugs Ecstasy and hydrocodone when he was arrested. Knight's lawyers, David Chesnoff and Richard Schonfeld, declined to comment. Knight is co-founder of the hip-hop label Death Row Records.

 

MACKENZIE PHILLIPS ARRESTED AT LA AIRPORT [AP, 8/27/08]

Former teen star Mackenzie Phillips has been arrested on suspicion of possessing a controlled substance after she allegedly was found carrying drugs at Los Angeles International Airport. Airport police Sgt. Jim Holcomb said the co-star of the old sitcom "One Day At a Time" was arrested Wednesday (Aug. 27). The 48-year-old Phillips was heading to New York when she failed to pass a security screening and a secondary search turned up a small amount of cocaine and heroin in her possession, he said. Phillips is the daughter of John Phillips, the late leader of the singing group the Mamas and the Papas. She has struggled with drug addiction in the past and was fired from "One Day At a Time," which ran from 1975 to 1984, for drug-related causes. She went on to star in the Disney Channel series "So Weird" and has made intermittent TV appearances in recent years.

 

CARMEN ELECTRA: THE SEX FILES [E! Online, 8/27/08]

Carmen Electra really isn't all about sex. Really, she isn't. At least that's what the former Baywatch babe wants us to believe. Electra insists that you won't always find her wearing next to nothing. "One of the big misconceptions about me is that I walk around in miniskirts and high heels twenty-four seven and go to the gym in heels," she tells Jeanne Wolf at Parade.com. When people see me dressed normally, they can't believe it. It's really weird." In fact, she say sometimes she is more Tara Patrick than Carmen Electra... For those not up on Carmen factoids, Tara Patrick is her real name. And yes, Electra talks about Tara in the third person. "She's that side of me that was afraid of rejection, that was afraid to take a chance, and step up and have someone say, 'no, you don't get the role," Electra says. At least for a flick like her new Disaster Movie, in which she gets it on with E! reality star Kim Kardashian. "I really got to know her in our wrestling scene," Electra says. "There's hair pulling and I hurt my back and got some burn marks. But it's also sexy. We're sort of playing with the idea that guys get turned on by girls wrestling. We get into some down and dirty positions, so it's a good thing we became friends. Kim is so cool, not to mention being hot."

 

RASPY NEIL DIAMOND DISAPPOINTS OHIO CONCERTGOERS [AP, 8/27/08]

Disappointed Neil Diamond fans will get a refund after attending a concert at Ohio State University in which the 67-year-old singer's voice sounded raspy. Some fans left the Monday (Aug. 25) concert early and others said Diamond completed the concert without mentioning anything to the audience about his voice. A statement from Diamond, the singer of such hits as "Sweet Caroline" and "Song Sung Blue," on Tuesday says a doctor has diagnosed acute laryngitis. Diamond spokeswoman Eve Samuels says the singer is offering a refund to those who place a request before Sept. 5. "I haven't let you down before and I won't let you down now," the singer said in an apology on his web site. Another message says Wednesday's concert in Green Bay, Wis., will be rescheduled for Sept. 12, and Friday's concert in St. Louis, Mo., will instead take place Sept. 10, 2008.

 

MARTY STUART TO START COUNTRY MUSIC TV SHOW [AP, 8/27/08]

Marty Stuart thinks there's room on TV for the style of country music he remembers from "The Porter Wagoner Show," "Flatt & Scruggs" and, of course, "Hee Haw." So Stuart decided to create his own show. "The Marty Stuart Show" will begin airing Sunday nights come November, 2008 on cable's RFD-TV. Each episode will feature music by Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives, as well as his wife, Grand Ole Opry star Connie Smith, and guests. "This show is about authenticity, from the artists who visit us in the studio every week to the people watching at home," said Stuart, a sideman with Lester Flatt and Johnny Cash before embarking on a successful solo career in the '80s. "I want to establish a show that gives a voice and stage to traditional country music." Stuart will host and produce the 30-minute episodes. Grand Ole Opry announcer Eddie Stubbs will be his sidekick. His show will be part of the prime-time lineup with "Hee Haw" reruns, "Postcards from Nebraska" and "Music & Motors."

 

ELLEN DeGENERES JOINS CALL TO END CANCER [E! Online, 8/27/08]

The upcoming Stand Up to Cancer benefit is beginning to look like the Oscars, the Emmys and the Grammys rolled into one. I just got word that newlywed Ellen DeGeneres has signed on to work the phonebank during the live telecast of the fundraiser on Sept. 5, 2008. The talk-show pooh-bah isn't the only new name added to the roster...Halle Berry, Jessica Alba, Kate Bosworth and Rob Lowe will also be answering phones. And that's just a smidgen of the previously announced participants, who include Christina Applegate, Jennifer Aniston, Charlize Theron, America Ferrera, Meryl Streep, Kirsten Dunst, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Scarlett Johansson and even Marge Simpson. The megawatt benefit will be simulcast live and commercial-free from Hollywood's Kodak Theatre on CBS, ABC and NBC (and our very own E!) and cohosted by Katie Couric, Charles Gibson and Brian Williams. "Just Stand Up," a new single featuring Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Miley Cyrus, Rihanna and Leona Lewis, among others, also benefits Stand Up and will be available on iTunes starting Sept. 2. Melissa Etheridge is set to perform the song during the telecast.

 

KARA DioGUARDI JOINS "IDOL" JUDGES FOR NYC TRYOUTS [AP, 8/27/08]

It was only her first day as an "American Idol" judge, but already Kara DioGuardi seemed part of the dysfunctional family. DioGuardi, the freshly-installed fourth "Idol" critic, joined Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson in a public show of solidarity Tuesday afternoon as the quartet entered a Chelsea Piers building on Manhattan's west side for a round of season eight auditions. They walked a red carpet amid a media circus aimed at getting the first photo opportunity of DioGuardi with her new co-workers. Cowell summed up the thinking behind adding the 37-year-old singer-songwriter to the panel. "It's like, you know, having dinner with three people for seven years, and getting quite bored of each other," Cowell told reporters. "So it's having a fourth person, new opinion, I think it's gonna be interesting." "I think it's gonna make it sexier," said Jackson, chiming in. DioGuardi's songs have been recorded by Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, Celine Dion, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood and Pink, among others. Her recent Top 40 hits include Stefani's "Rich Girl," Clarkson's "Walk Away" and Dion's "Taking Chances." Fox announced DioGuardi's new gig Monday morning.

 

NICOLLETTE SHERIDAN AND MICHAEL BOLTON DISENGAGE [E! Online, 8/27/08]

Turns out that time, love and tenderness aren't all it takes. Longtime on-again, off-again loves Nicollette Sheridan and Michael Bolton have called off their pending nuptials, E! News confirms. They "have amicably ended their engagement," Sheridan's rep said in a statement Tuesday (Aug. 26). "They appreciate your respect for their privacy in this matter." The pair originally dated for five years starting in 1992. After an eight-year drought, Bolton started seeing the Desperate Housewives star again in 2005, shortly after she broke up with fiancé Niklas Soderblom. They announced their intention to wed in March 2006. "Nicollette and I are very serious about each other," Bolton told the New York Daily News in January 2006. "I am very committed. It is a very special time in my life. I have a good feeling about the future." Both have been married once before, Sheridan to Harry Hamlin from 1991 to early 1993.

 

JAY-Z TO OPEN RENOVATED HOLLYWOOD PALLADIUM [Klassic Magazine/Billboard, 8/27/08]

After undergoing renovations for more than a year, the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles will open its doors Oct. 15, 2008 with a concert by Jay-Z. The rapper will be backed by a 12-piece band. The 4,000-capacity Hollywood Palladium has been shuttered since last April to undergo top-to-bottom renovations. The upgrades include an overhaul of the venue's interior and exterior, a new dance floor, expanded concessions, upgraded restrooms and improvements to the stage infrastructure. Tickets for the Jay-Z concert go on sale Sept. 5 via livenation.com. Live Nation holds a long-term lease to operate, manage and exclusively book the Hollywood Palladium. The venue first opened in 1940 with a concert by the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra featuring Frank Sinatra. "I'm honored to play such an iconic venue," said Jay-Z in a statement. The rapper is signed to a long-term, multi-rights deal with Live Nation. "Just as Frank ushered in a golden era, I hope this opening will mark the beginning of a resurgence in generation defining live music," Jay-Z added. Since opening nearly 70 years ago, the Hollywood Palladium has hosted such acts as the Rolling Stones, James Brown, Led Zeppelin, the Who, the Police, Rod Stewart, Metallica, the Clash, the Pixies, No Doubt, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Public Enemy, among many others.

 

MANAGER: SPEARS NOT SLATED TO PERFORM ON VMAs [AP, 8/27/08]

Britney Spears won't perform on this year's MTV Video Music Awards, according to her manager. "Contrary to media reports, Britney was never slated to perform on this year's VMAs," Larry Rudolph, Spears' manager at Jive Records, said in a statement. "She's in the middle of recording her next album, which is going amazingly well, and her focus remains on the studio." Spears' "Gimme More" comeback performance during last year's VMAs was one of the most-talked-about moments of 2007. The tabloid queen is currently appearing in spots promoting this year's ceremony. In June, MTV Networks Music Group President Van Toffler said the network wasn't ruling out giving viewers another dose of Spears at the VMAs. MTV later confirmed they were in talks to have Spears appear in some capacity. The rebounding pop queen is nominated for video of the year for "Piece of Me." This VMAs will air live Sept. 7, 2008 from Paramount Pictures Studios in Los Angeles. Previously announced award show performers include Kid Rock, Lil Wayne, Pink, Rihanna, Paramore, T.I. and the Jonas Brothers.

 

RAPPER/PRODUCER DR. DRE'S SON FOUND DEAD [Klassic Magazine, 8/26/08]

The 20 year old son, Andre Young Jr., of rapper/producer Dr. Dre, was found dead in his Woodland Hills, Calif., home on Saturday (Aug. 23), according to Dr. Dre's representative. Young was discovered in his bed on Saturday by his mother around 10:30 a.m. Paramedics were called to the scene, but Young was pronounced dead after efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. Police was told by his mother that her son returned home Saturday around 5:30 a.m after being out the night before. The cause of death has not been announced, pending completion of an autopsy. In a statement, a spokesperson for Dr. Dre, whose real name is Andre Young Sr. said he "is mourning the loss of his son. Please respect his family's grief and privacy at this time." Dr. Dre, a founding father of modern day West Coast production, is a former member of the gangsta rap group N.W.A., and the founder and CEO of Aftermath Entertainment (Interscope).

 

LIL WAYNE ALMOST DIDN'T GET THE "GOT MONEY" TRACK [Klassic Magazine, 8/26/08]

Lil Wayne's current single "Got Money" is one of the biggest songs from Tha Carter III, but the Fireman almost didn't get the track — the record was originally intended to be a Pitbull collaboration with T-Pain, Play N Skillz said of the cut. "It's the biggest record out right now, and we're making it rain." "Got Money" was originally recorded when Pitbull was at TVT[Records], but they never cleared the song, according to Pitbull. The studio misplaced the beat. Skillz, the melody guy, remade the beat in 5 to 10 minutes the next day. Play N Skillz then sat on the hook of "Got Money" for three months, until they began working on Pitbull's The Boatlift album in Miami. They played Pit the beat, and he went wild. He suggested getting T-Pain or Akon on the record. They didn't want it. "Got Money" then went through a few more MCs, Slim Thug, Plies, Rick Ross on its way to Wayne. Tum Tum recorded on it, but that did not work. Pain then gave it to Wayne. A week later, a mp3 arrived with Wayne spazzing out on the record.  The producer said "Pain changed the hook up some, but it was the same topic — about money." Play N Skillz — whose past smashes include Chamillionaire's "Ridin' Dirty" and Kia Shine's "Krispy" — are hoping the success of "Got Money" will continue their wave of hit records. They're scheduled to work with Fabolous and have already laid new tracks for their own sophomore album, Out Tha Box, as well as LPs by Hurricane Chris, Paul Wall, Slim from 112 and 50 Cent's upcoming "Before I Self Destruct". "Sha Money XL is very involved in the new project," Skillz said.

 

"GIRLS ALOUD" TO RECORD CHARITY SINGLE [Aceshowbiz, 8/26/08]

A group of artists, including Girls Aloud, are scheduled to record a charity anthem for a campaign against knife crimes in London. The project will also include singer Steve Edwards and some world champion athletes, such as boxers Johnny Nelson and Junior Witter. The collaboration which will be named under U.K. Flow, is expected to contribute in the fund raiser program, conducted by a number of knife crime charity organizations. The song is initiated by Stephen Nicholas, an actor who starred in a British television series "Dream Team". Commenting on his motive, Nicholas says that he genuinely wants to raise awareness about knife crime and its consequences for a number of victims who have been stabbed to death across the country. "We just want to raise awareness. We haven't got any ulterior motive, our only motive is to stop kids dying," he explains.

 

SPRAGGA BENZ'S SON SHOT DEAD BY POLICE [Klassic Magazine, 8/26/08]

Carlton Grant Junior, the son of famous entertainer, Spraggz Benz was was killed recently by police in downtwown Kingston, Jamaica. It is alleged that when the 17 year old was accousted by the police, he place his hands in the air before being shop the first time. According to eye witness accounts, the police then went and stood over him and shot him a second time. He was then taken to hospital by the police, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The Jamaica Constabulary Forces (JCF) release of a customer service Charter of Rights, that implies their intention to change policing strategies in order to more closely work with those they serve, seems to have failed Carlton in this case.

 

DEMI LOVATO SAYS JONAS BROTHERS ALWAYS HAVE HER BACK [Aceshowbiz, 8/26/08]

Joining the Jonas Brothers on their "Burnin' Up" tour, Demi Lovato apparently enjoys her time with the siblings very much. Spending much time together, the Disney starlet sings her praise for Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas and Kevin Jonas, claiming them to always have her "back." She, moreover, also said that the threesome are very protective of her. Giving examples on that, she revealed oldest brother Kevin helped her to get her water and Joe helped her stay upright on stage as she confessed to be very uncoordinated. "I'm very uncoordinated," Lovato admitted, adding "I'm surprised I don't fall onstage more. They're like, 'Watch your step.'" Furthermore claiming Jonas Bothers as fun to hang out with, she stated "They're 10 times more cool when you meet them and hang out with them all the time. They're hilarious!" Lovato got her start on PBS' hit show "Barney & Friends." She was last seen attending Arthur Ashe Kids' Day at the U.S. Open in N.Y.C. over the weekend, August 23, 2008. She and Jonas Brothers are signed to Hollywood Records. She serves as their special guest on their "Burnin' Up" tour. In related news, Kevin has also shown some support for Lovato as he's seen wearing a shirt read "Team Demi and Selena", a reference to the actress-singer and her best friend Selena Gomez, during a performance at Madison Square Garden.

 

DEF JAM DENY SPLIT RUMOUR WITH JERMAINE DUPRI [Aceshowbiz, 8/26/08]

Early this week, SVP Media and Artist Relation for Island Def Jam Music Group, Laura Swanson, has slammed down rumour saying that the recording company plan to call off their contract with rapper Jermaine Dupri. Laura issues a written statement, stating that the gossip is completely untrue. "There is absolutely no truth to the rumors regarding Jermaine Dupri. They are completely untrue," she wrote to SOHH. Last week the rumor had hotly circulated in the media, saying that rapper Jermaine Dupri is terminated from the Def Jam because he didn't perform a satisfying work for some of Def Jam's artists. Jermaine has allegedly been blamed for Janet Jackson's "Discipline", which does not share the success of her previous albums. He is also said to be responsible for Mariah Carey's "E=MC²", which is reportedly having problems with a follow-up single after "Touch My Body". Regardless the rumors that have cornered him lately, Jermaine still apparently becomes one of most-wanted producers as this week R&B singer Sammie reveals his desire to get a record from Jermaine for his third studio album which hasn't been titled yet. "We're trying to get in with Nitti and trying to get a record from JD (Jermaine Dupri) this time," he explains. "I haven't worked with Jermaine since 2001. As far as producer wise it is going to be a stacked house and I'm looking forward to the album and what their going to come up with next."

 

MOMMY-TO-BE ASHLEE SIMPSON PREP FOR BABY [Aceshowbiz, 8/26/08]

Ashlee Simpson's pregnant belly is continuing to grow and on the verge of awaiting for the birth of her baby, the singer has been busy doing many preparations. Detailing on the baby preparations that she and husband Pete Wentz have been doing, Ashlee shared some details to ET Canada. In a recent interview held while she was promoting her "Request" clothing line in Canada, she revealed that she and Wentz currently are "getting the nursery ready." To ET Canada she said that she won't decide on a name until the baby is born. Putting most of her focus on her baby, Ashlee won't get back into the recording studio anytime soon, saying "The baby is my main focus right now. We're both so excited. I mean, this is definitely the happiest moment in my life." Feeling grateful for having her family around and very supportive during her pregnancy, Ashlee finds that as very comforting. "My mom and my grandmother [have] given me good motherly advice, but it's one of those things where your mother instincts kind of kick in right away," she revealed. Ashlee and Wentz are longtime lovers. They have been married since May, 2008. Soon thereafter the couple issued an official confirmation on the mounting speculation that they are expecting a baby. No words on her due date.

 

BRAD PITT SHOOTS ANGELINA JOLIE AND KIDS FOR W MAGAZINE COVER [Aceshowbiz, 8/26/08]

Taking his photography hobby seriously, Brad Pitt turns photographer for W magazine. The actor lands the new gig, snapping pictures of his longtime partner Angelina Jolie and their kids for the November issue of W. Fashion Week Daily has obtained confirmation from several sources that the movie hunk shot Jolie and their brood at the Chateau Miraval in the South of France last week. The shoot marks Pitt's first time shooting a cover which will be his and Jolie's second W spread as a couple. Previously Pitt has collaborated with pal Steven Klein to create a photo portfolio that showed him and Jolie as a 1960's-style married couple in W's July 2005 issue. No clue on how many pics of his family that Pitt took for the upcoming W magazine. It's not mentioned too on how the pics look like. Pitt has made no secret about his passion for photography. Showing her support for her man's hobby, Jolie reportedly gave him a Littman 45 single camera for a recent birthday gift. Pitt and Jolie recently graced the cover of People magazine, making a cover debut with their newborn twins Knox Leon and Vivienne Marcheline along with their other children Maddox, Pax, Zahara, and Shiloh.

 

AUSTRALIA GRANTS VISA TO RAPPER SNOOP DOGG [Reuters, 8/26/08]

Australia has lifted a visa ban on Snoop Dogg, with a new government clearing the way for the gangsta rapper to tour in October in a double act with Ice Cube. Snoop Dogg, whose real name is Cordozar Calvin Broadus Jr., was refused entry to Australia in 2007 because of his criminal record, sinking plans for him to co-host the MTV Australia Video Music Awards. "He has now been assessed under the character test as having passed, so he will be given a visa," an immigration official told Reuters. The visa would clear the way for a 17-day visit from October 21, the official said. Snoop Dogg was banned by Australia's former conservative government, which lost power last year to the centre-left Labor government of Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Labor has steadily softened tough immigration laws while in power. Critics say Snoop Dogg's lyrics are racist and sexist. The rapper has sold over 17 million records. His criminal record counts several drug and firearm charges since 1990, including a 1993 acquittal for murder. He has also been denied entry to Britain. Australian victims of crime groups said they would complain to immigration officials in a bid to have the visa approval overturned. "Snoop Dogg trades in toxic messages of menace, violence, misogyny and lawlessness," Angela Conway, of the Australian Family Association, told the Herald Sun newspaper.

 

WHAT PLANET OF AWESOME DID ED WESTWICK COME FROM? [E! Online, 8/26/08]

As our Gossip Girl countdown continues (seven days remaining!), we were more than giddy when Page Six Magazine featured Ed "Chuck Bass" Westwick this weekend. We have to run their names together because it's impossible to separate the real person from the character—they're both so pompous and charming at the same time. Here's an example: Ed punctuates every sentence with "baby," which seems a little douchey, right? But then we remember it's Ed Westwick who would be saying it in an English accent and with that style of his that allows him to pull off Chuck Bass' ridiculous costumes so effortlessly. Then it just drives us crazy—in a good way. Yeah, we're crushing hard. Before we completely embarrass ourselves, let's get to his quotes in the magazine, most of which had us swooning. Jump with us...Regarding His Style: "My style has always been good. Top-notch, baby. I like the glamorous indie-rock look, like the Libertines. But, you know, without the heroin needle sticking out of my arm." About His Partying: "If I want to go out and drink and throw a glass in the street, I'll do it. As long as the reason is that I want to have fun and not that I want to create some sort of tension around me. Then I'd be a d--k. But I'm not." On Rumors and the Ladies: "People think Chace is gay, and thought I was gay, that we were humping. It's not true, but hilarious. People project their fantasies onto people. I've never been someone who makes it my objective to go out and pick up chicks. But I've met some fantastic ladies here. You know, those amazing conversations where you find yourself in a cafe talking until 2 a.m. and never see them again." Sigh! So much to love. Would anyone else like to declare their supercrush on Ed "Chuck Bass" Westwick along with us?

 

DEPUTY PULLS GUN DURING STOP OF DIDDY'S ENTOURAGE [AP, 8/25/08]

A sheriff's deputy pulled a gun on members of Diddy's entourage during a routine traffic stop over the weekend, but the situation was quickly resolved and a spokesman for the entertainer said the deputy was professional and respectful. The gun was never pointed at the hip-hop mogul, and deputies were "very respectful" during the stop early Saturday (Aug. 23), spokesman Ed Tagliaferri said Monday. Diddy was traveling on Sunset Boulevard in a seven-car convoy when a deputy pulled over one of the vehicles. Combs was not in the car that was stopped for having an expired registration tag. Sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore says the deputy became concerned when several men approached the vehicle. The deputy unholstered his gun and the situation quickly cooled down. No citations were issued because the car was a rental.

 

FOURTH CHILD ON THE WAY FOR CHARLIE SHEEN [AP, 8/25/08]

Make that "Two and a Half Men," three daughters and a baby on the way for Charlie Sheen. The actor is expecting a child with wife Brooke Mueller, Sheen announced Monday (Aug. 25) in a statement. "Brooke and I are thrilled!" the star of the CBS hit "Two and a Half Men" wrote. "She's the best stepmom Sam, Lola and Cassandra could ever hope for. Seeing her love and affection with those three, I know she'll be an amazing mom. Unless I bat 100 percent, perhaps a boy awaits us." Sheen has three daughters: 25-year-old Cassandra Jade Estevez, whose mother is Sheen's former girlfriend Paula Profit, and two girls with ex-wife Denise Richards. Sheen and Richards are still embroiled in a bitter custody battle over 3-year-old Sam and 2-year-old Lola. Sheen and Mueller, a real estate investor, tied the knot in late May.

 

SHARON STONE NIGHT OUT WITH BOYFRIEND CHASE DREYFUS [E! Online, 8/25/08]

Sharon Stone enjoyed a night out with the boys on Friday (Aug. 22). And when we say boys, we mean Stone's 24-year-old boyfriend Chase Dreyfus and a group of his twentysomething pals. Cougar & Co. were at Eva Longoria Parker and Tom English's Hollywood restaurant, Beso, celebrating what seemed to be Dreyfus' birthday, an onlooker reports. "Sharon was there with him and his friends from Louisiana," the onlooker says. "She didn't seem to talk to anyone but him." After dinner, Stone and Dreyfus apparently hopped on a plane for Denver to attend the Democratic National Convention, another source reports. "Sharon's really taken with him," the source says. They were first spotted getting cozy with each other earlier this month in Las Vegas. They reportedly met while both were doing work on behalf of Planet Hope, Stone and her sister Kelly's charity organization for families in need. Stone, who has three kids, was married to San Fransisco newspaper man Phil Bronstein for six years before splitting up in 2004. Stone's rep did not comment.

 

SONGWRITER TO JOIN AMERICAN IDOL JUDGING PANEL [CBC, 8/25/08]

Contestants for TV powerhouse American Idol will have another judge to impress starting this fall. Producers of the hit singing competition show announced on Monday (Aug. 25) that pop singer-songwriter and music producer Kara DioGuardi will join the judging panel that already features Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul. "She is a smart, sassy lady, and one of America's most successful songwriters. We know she will bring a new level of energy and excitement to the show," Simon Fuller, executive producer and creator of the international Pop Idol franchise, said in a statement. DioGuardi is a Grammy-nominated songwriter whose work has been recorded by top singers including Celine Dion, Gwen Stefani, Enrique Iglesias, Ashlee Simpson, Kylie Minogue, Pink, Miley Cyrus, The Jonas Brothers, and past American Idol winners Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. Her work includes Clarkson's Walk Away, Christina Aguilera's Ain't No Other Man and We Rock, from the recent Disney Channel musical Camp Rock. Cecile Frot-Coutaz, another Idol executive producer, revealed the American edition was initially intended to have four judges. "We've seen from our international series that having a fourth judge creates a dynamic that benefits both the contestants and the viewers," she said. Canadian Idol, for instance, has four judges: Farley Flex, Jake Gold, Sass Jordan and Zack Werner. The eighth season of American Idol gets underway in January. The sixth season of Canadian Idol will end with a two-hour finale on Sept. 10, 2008.

 

"TERMINATOR SALVATION" SHOOTING STALLED FOR HELENA BONHAM CARTER [E! Online, 8/25/08]

Four relatives of actress Helena Bonham Carter died in a minibus crash during a safari vacation in South Africa on Wednesday (Aug. 20), according to the U.K. newspaper the Telegraph. Two others escaped with injuries. Fiona Bonham Carter, the star's cousin, survived with a broken collarbone, along with one of her sons, Piers, who had whiplash. However, Fiona's 14-year-old son, Marcus Egerton-Warburton, mother Brenda Bonham Carter, stepfather Francis Kirkwood and sister-in-law Kay Boardman all perished when their vehicle flipped over after a tire burst. They were in a remote area six hours outside Johannesburg. In light of the tragedy, the Oscar-nominated actress and her boyfriend, director Tim Burton, are reportedly back in Britain to grieve with family. Bonham Carter, who gave birth to the couple's second child in December, had been in Albuquerque, N.M., filming Terminator Salvation opposite Christian Bale.

 

BRITNEY SPEARS APPEARS ON MADONNA'S STICKY AND SWEET SCREEN VIDEO [Aceshowbiz, 8/25/08]

Madonna has placed Britney Spears as a cameo on her "Sticky and Sweet" video screen. While, Madonna sings "Human Nature" at her first concert in Millennium Stadium of the Welsh city, Cardiff this weekend, Britney is seen stuck in a lift, wearing black glasses and a hooded top. Then, she whispers lines "Express yourself, don't repress yourself." Britney's appearance then makes some saying that Madonna is actually giving a favor to help Britney's comeback. However, the others claim that their collaboration is mutual because Madonna reportedly takes advantage of Britney's recent good reputation in order to draw more crowds to her concert. There is no further explanation whether Britney will also tape another appearance in Madonna's next show that will be held in London's Wembley Stadium on September 11, 2008. Live Nation Global Touring as "Sticky and Sweet" producer gives no statement to the question. Madonna performed with dancers in bondage clothes and black masks in her "Sticky and Sweet" premiere. Message "Game Over" then filled the wide screen as Madonna left the stage after performing energetically with skipping contest and pole-dancing.

 

K-FED ATTENDS EX-WIFE SHAR JACKSON'S BIRTHDAY [Aceshowbiz, 8/25/08]

Kevin Federline and ex-girlfriend Shar Jackson reunited for one more time when she celebrated her 32nd birthday Friday night, August 22, 2008. He surprised her, showing up at the party and giving her kiss and hug, only to spark rumors that they have rekindled their romance. Shar was celebrating her 32nd birthday inside the VIP room of Blush Boutique nightclub at the Wynn in Las Vegas when K-Fed showed up, much to her surprise. "A crowd came to see what all the commotion was and they found Shar and Kevin sharing some public affection," an eyewitness testified. "Kevin showed up to wish her a happy birthday. They shared a very public embrace and kiss before Kevin left." Pouring cold water to speculation of a rekindled romance, Shar insisted she and K-Fed have "passed the stage". She went on telling People, "We were friends before we were a couple and we're always going to be friends. We have two amazing kids together. Kevin is my boy." In the afternoon, prior to the birthday bash, both K-Fed and Shar were also seen hanging together at Tao Beach, Prive and the newly opened Lavo.  K-Fed was still dating Shar when he began seeing Britney Spears. They are parents to two children; daughter, Kori Madison Federline and son Kaleb Michael Jackson Federline. They remain good friends despite the fact that he reportedly cheated on her with Spears while she was pregnant.

 

BOB MARLEY STATUE UNVEILED IN SERBIA [BBC News, 8/24/08]

A statue of late reggae legend Bob Marley has been unveiled in a small Serbian village during a rock festival as a token of peace in the Balkans. Musicians from Croatia and Serbia were joined by rock fans for the midnight ceremony in Banatski Sokolac. Organisers said Marley, who died in 1981, "promoted peace and tolerance in his music". Serbia recently erected a statue of iconic film character Rocky, while Mostar in Bosnia has one of Bruce Lee.  Another Serbian village put up a statue to actor Johnny Weissmuller, best known for his depiction of Tarzan. Serbian musician Jovan Matic and veteran Croatian rock star Dado Topic took the covers off the Marley statue at the Rock Village event. It depicts him holding a guitar, with his fist raised in a defiant pose. Organisers claim that the Marley statue, which was created by Croatian artist Davor Dukic, is the first monument in Europe to the Jamaican-born star. Bosnia's bronze statue of Bruce Lee, erected in 2005, was seen as a symbol against ethnic divisions deepened by the country's fierce civil war in the 1990s. The Serbian village of Zitiste put up a statue to Rocky - played by Sylvester Stallone - last year in a bid to shake off a run of bad luck. A series of floods and landslides had led some people to believe the village was jinxed.

 

MORRISSEY, BLINK 182 PRODUCER DIES [CBC, 8/24/08]

Jerry Finn, the wunderkind producer behind the American band Blink-182 and British singer Morrissey, has died, 12 days after being taken off life support. Reports on Saturday (Aug. 23) say Finn died on Aug. 21 at the age of 39, according to Billboard.com. He suffered a massive brain hemorrhage in July and was taken off life support Aug. 9. His best-known works include Blink-182's Enema of the State and Morrissey's You Are the Quarry. Finn first began in the early 1990s as a recording engineer and soon began producing records including Rancid's - And Out Come the Wolves. He also worked with Green Day, Bad Religion and the Offspring. At the time of his hemorrhage, Finn had just finished work on the next Morrissey album. Its release date has been pushed back to early 2009 following the producer's death.

 

JASON LEE'S GIRLFRIEND CEREN ALKAC GIVES BIRTH TO BABY GIRL [Aceshowbiz, 8/24/08]

As posted on her official website, representative for Jason Lee has confirmed that the actor and his girlfriend Ceren Alkac have welcomed their first child together, a baby girl, on August 10, 2008. The representative provided no further details on the newborn baby. The baby girl joins older brother, Pilot Inspektor, whom Lee has from a previous marriage. Alkac's pregnancy with Lee's child was exposed by media in late April. His representative soon thereafter confirmed the news, telling People exclusively that the couple were about to welcome the arrival of the child in fall. Lee himself let it slip during an interview on the Today show in early May that he and Alkac were expecting a girl. In the wake of the announcement, Lee was rumored to wed Alkac. He was seen allegedly applying for a marriage license at the Norwalk, Calif. courthouse in late June. A video footage featured on TMZ showed him standing in line with some other people. No wedding has been held though and Lee has never spoken publicly about his plans to wed Alkac.

 

DA BRAT SENTENCED TO 3 YEARS IN PRISON [Vibe, 8/24/08]

Rap star Da Brat has been sentenced to three years in prison, with seven years probation and 200 hours of community service, for striking a woman with a rum bottle at an Atlanta nightclub last year. She must also undergo substance abuse treatment, a mental evaluation, and attend anger management classes. The incident happened on Halloween at Studio 72. The witness, a waitress at the club, suffered permanent facial scarring from the altercation. Brat, real name Shawntae Harris, stood as family members wept as she was taken into custody on Friday (Aug. 22). Brat pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, and as she was led out the courtroom she calmly looked over at relatives and said, "I love y'all." Da Brat's 1994 album, Funkdafied was the first album to go platinum by a female. Her most recent claim to fame is as a contestant on The Surreal Life and The Celebrity Fit Club.

 

MARIAH CAREY TO HEADLINE 2008 CANADIAN IDOL FINALE [Aceshowbiz, 8/23/08]

Diva Mariah Carey will share her remarkable voice with her fans at Canadian idol finale session. The show will be aired live by Canadian television CTV on Wednesday, September 10. A written statement, issued by CTV, is read, "CTV announced today that Mariah Carey will headline the star-studded, two-hour Canadian Idol season finale, airing live on Wednesday, September, 10 at 8 P.M. E.T." To join her is five-time Grammy winner John Legend, who has recently dropped a music video for his brand new single "Green Light", taken from "Evolver" which comes out on October 28. Other performers who are lined up for the result show, are Canadian rocker Hedley, last year's Canadian Idol champion Brian Melo, and R&B singer Jully Black. Commenting on the performer list, President of CTV Inc. Susanne Boyce says that they will make the show as spectacular as ever. "Viewers are in for a treat in what is shaping up to be one of the most spectacular Canadian Idol finales ever," says Susanne in the press release. On another news, Mariah has recorded a charity single with teen idol Miley Cyrus, country singer Carrie Underwood, Rihanna, and many other female singers. The song called "Just Stand Up" is noted to support a program initiated to help fighting cancer.

 

KATY PERRY INSPIRED BY SCARLETT JOHANSSON IN "I KISSED A GIRL" [Aceshowbiz, 8/23/08]

Behind the highly-successful and controversial song of "I Kissed a Girl" lays Scarlett Johansson. The song's crooner and co-writer, Katy Perry, confessed that she was inspired by the actress when she flipped through a magazine revealing a picture of the sexy blonde. "'I Kissed a Girl' was inspired when I opened up a magazine and I saw a picture of Scarlett Johansson," Perry said to Steppin' Out magazine. "I was with my boyfriend at the time, and I said to him, 'I'm not going to lie: If Scarlett Johansson walked into the room and wanted to make out with me, I would make out with her. I hope you're okay with that?" "I Kissed a Girl" became an international hit when it was released earlier this year. It sat at number 1 on Billboard Hot 100 chart for seven consecutive weeks and later on peaked at the top position of U.K. Singles chart. Controversy surrounds the song with some deeming it as containing homosexual references. However, Perry's father Keith recently revealed that Perry wrote the song when she was mad at her boyfriend and that it has nothing to do with homosexuality none whatsoever. Perry is now dating Travis McCoy from alternative hip-hop band Gym Class Heroes. When asked the last time on who she wants to snog when she has the opportunity, Perry said, "I'm not a lesbian, I love men. As for kissing a girl, I'm holding out for Megan Fox."

 

JONAS BROTHERS DONATE ALBUM OUTFITS TO MUSEUM [Aceshowbiz, 8/23/08]

Having their new album, "A Little Bit Longer," opened at No. 1 on the Billboard top 10 apparently has escalated Jonas Brothers to their best giving mood ever. Having had so much in their life, the brothers want to share some of their belongings, donating their outfits to a museum. Taking a tour of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio on Friday afternoon, August 22, Nick Jonas, Kevin Jonas and Joe Jonas donated the suits they wore on the cover of their hit album "A Little Bit Longer" to the museum. The threesome handed over their outfits to the museum's vice president Jim Henke. Aside from making the donation, they were given a private tour inside the museum by Henke. They, additionally, also took time signing autographs for awaiting fans. Later that evening they were due to perform a concert at Blossom Music Center. Jonas Brothers' outfits donation is part of the Right Here, Right Now! exhibit, which celebrates some of nowadays' hottest artists. Some other celebs who have given their contribution to the exhibit are Good Charlotte, -Phantom Planet, John Mayer and Usher just to name a few.

 

KATTAN FILES FOR SEPARATION TWO MONTHS AFTER WEDDING [AP, 8/23/08]

Chris Kattan's marriage to his model wife lasted almost as long as a "Saturday Night Live" skit. The comedian filed for legal separation from model wife Sunshine Tutt after only eight weeks of marriage. The couple were married June 28 in Yosemite Valley. They spent roughly a month together; Kattan's filings indicate they separated on Aug. 10, 2008. The couple have no children together, and Kattan's filing in Los Angeles Superior Court on Friday (Aug. 22) indicates the pair have a prenuptial agreement. By filing for separation instead of divorce, Kattan is leaving the door open for a reunion with Tutt, but is indicating the pair intend to live separate lives for the time being. Kattan, 37, appeared on "SNL" from 1996 to 2003. His screen credits include "Corky Romano" and "A Night at the Roxbury." The couple became engaged on Christmas Eve 2006. An e-mail to Kattan's publicist was not immediately returned Friday evening.

 

JAMAICAN REGGAE STAR FINED FOR SWEARING [Reuters, 8/23/08]

Jamaican reggae and dance hall star Bounty Killa has pleaded guilty to using profanity at a recent show and paid a $70 fine. Killa, whose real name is Rodney Pryce, entered the plea and paid the fine during an appearance in the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate's Court in western Jamaica on Thursday (Aug. 21). He could have faced up to 30 days in jail. Killa was arrested and charged last month during the staging of Reggae Sumfest, one of the world's top reggae festivals. Fans heckled him after he made uncomplimentary remarks about two disc jockeys, and he responded with a barrage of expletives then walked off the stage. Jamaican law prohibits profanity in public performances and police have been more vigilant in recent years about enforcing that law.

 

TEEN SENSATION MILEY CYRUS SHARES HER BIRTHDAY WISH LIST [Aceshowbiz, 8/23/08]

Planning to turn 16 in style by holding a birthday bash at California's Disneyland October 5 this year, Miley Cyrus shares her wish list with Radio Disney. Previously admitting that she wants a car for her upcoming birthday, she reveals that she also wants Wii Fit and a puppy. Describing the brand new car she's been dreaming of, Miley told Radio Disney on August 21 that she "definitely want to get something bad on the road." She went on detailing that the car must be "big enough for all my friends and to scare all the cars away from me. I'm a good driver but it's everyone else that I'm worried about!" Not mentioning her other birthday lists other than those stuff, Miley kept gushing about her highly anticipated birthday bash, telling Disney Radio "I'm stoked! Most everyone dresses up on their Sweet 16. Not me. I'm going to be ready to get in the water and ready get on the crazy rides. That's all I want to do the entire time is ride the rides." On getting back on track, facing her future as a mature lady, Miley explained "This year one of my goals is not to stress just kind of let life come as it is. I'm going to try and do that a little more. Just take things step by step instead of always having a plan." Friends and family are invited and she also gives chance for fans to attend the bash, providing 5,000 limited tickets for them to purchase with the money earned from the sales will be donated to The Youth Service America, a charity which helps improve the lives of people ages 5 to 25. Tickets to the so-called "Miley's Sweet 16 - Share the Celebration" will go on sale Saturday, Aug. 30, 2008, at 9 A.M. PT.

 

MADONNA KICKS OFF HER "STICKY & SWEET" TOUR [Aceshowbiz/Reuters, 8/22/08]

As posted on her official website, Madonna describes her upcoming "Sticky and Sweet" tour as "a rock driven dancatastic journey". The tour for "Hard Candy" promotional project, is broken into four main sections; pimp, old school, gypsy, and rave. Pimp as her first appearance is inspired with 1920's deco as well as modern day gangsta pimp. Furthermore, in this stage the singer will make a grand appearance in Givenchy costume. Meanwhile, for old school theme, she will bring more 80's New York city dance roots and also include flashes of the time travel, showing the birth of rap. Her performance in "Gypsy" stage will take the audience to Romania by showing its folk music and dance while "Rave" is influenced with Eastern move with all sparky, and sporty stage display. According to the written statement, the pop star will travel with a 250-strong troupe of crew members, dancers, musicians and assistants, 3,500 individual clothing items, 69 guitars and 16 caterers. The lady has also reportedly spent more than 1 million pounds on accessories of Swarovski crystals. "Sticky and Sweet" is produced by Live Nation Global Touring. It is scheduled to kick off this Saturday on August 23, 2008 at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium and then move to London's Wembley Stadium on September 11, 2008. "Sticky & Sweet" is a major test for Live Nation, the tour company that signed Madonna to a 10-year contract in 2007 reported to be worth a total of $120 million. Musically, Madonna has few if any real rivals. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has described her as the best-selling female rock artist of the 20th century and the second top-selling female artist in the United States. Guinness World Records list her as the world's most successful female recording artist of all time and she has sold around 200 million albums. The Sunday Times estimates Madonna and husband Guy Ritchie's fortune at around $600 million. The last few years have not all been easy for Madonna, however. A celebrity who often bristles in the media glare, Madonna may be universally admired but she is not universally loved. Tickets for the show can be bought on her official page.

 

"WIRE" ACTRESS ARRESTED ON MINOR DRUG CHARGE [AP, 8/22/08]

An actress who appeared on the HBO series "The Wire" has been arrested on minor drug charges. Court records show Felicia "Snoop" Pearson, who played a killer of the same name on the televesion series, was charged after police went to her home in Northeast Baltimore to pick her up for refusing to cooperate as a witness in a murder trial. She was arrested Wednesday after police served a warrant that would allow them to detain her, if needed, until the Sept. 16, 2008 trial of Steven Lashley. Court documents say Pearson is accused of having two cigars containing suspected marijuana in a bedroom and loose plant material. She was charged with one count of drug possession. Authorities say Pearson witnessed Lashley stab three men, killing one, during an argument in 2005.

 

"DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES" STARS TEAMING UP FOR EMMYS [AP, 8/22/08]

The stars of "Desperate Housewives," snubbed by the Emmy nominators this time around, will get a moment in the ceremony's spotlight anyway. Marcia Cross, Dana Delany, Teri Hatcher, Felicity Huffman, Eva Longoria Parker and Nicollette Sheridan were on the first list of presenters announced Thursday by the TV academy. The actresses will join together to hand out a trophy at the Sept. 21, 2008 ceremony airing on ABC. Nominations or no nominations, the housewives' ABC drama remains popular with viewers, and the Emmys could use a ratings boost: Last year's ceremony posted its second-smallest audience on record, just under 13 million. Other pairings: Emmy nominees Julia Louis-Dreyfus ("The New Adventures of Old Christine") and Hugh Laurie ("House") will present separately, and Tina Fey ("30 Rock") and Amy Poehler ("Saturday Night Live") will team up. Fey and Poehler worked together on "SNL" and co-starred in the movie "Baby Mama." "It's always fun to come up with unique pairings, cast reunions and surprising personalities as presenters on the Emmy show, and this year we've got a number of those," said Emmy executive producer Ken Ehrlich. "And the good news is, we've got plenty more to come." Huffman won a best comedy series actress Emmy in 2005 and "Desperate Housewives" has received directing and other awards over the years. This year, guest actress nominations went to Polly Bergen and Kathryn Joosten and the show earned nods for costumes and hairstyling.

 

OLYMPIC SUPERSTAR MICHAEL PHELPS GET BOOK DEAL [AP, 8/22/08]

Olympic superstar Michael Phelps will write a book telling the story behind his historic eight gold medal swims just in time for the holiday season, Free Press, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, announced Friday (Aug. 22). In "Built to Succeed," Phelps will also cover his philosophy on training and competition, as well as his life being raised by a single mother and coping with an attention-deficit disorder, the publisher said. The book is scheduled to be released in December, 2008. Phelps, 23, became the winningest Olympian ever at this summer's Beijing games, winning eight golds to add to six previous Olympic first-place victories. He holds seven world records.

 

TRIO WALK "LAPD" BEAT FOR NBC [Reuters/Hollywood Reporter, 8/22/08]

Regina King, Kevin Alejandro and Michael McGrady have been cast in NBC's pilot "LAPD." In addition, Benjamin McKenzie ("The O.C.") is in early talks to join the project, an ensemble drama that follows a group of police officers in Los Angeles. King ("24") will play Lydia, a smart, sympathetic detective in the Hollywood division. Alejandro ("Shark") will play Nate, a detective who is happily married with three kids and another on the way. McGrady ("Daybreak") will play Sal, a detective who works mainly on gang-related crimes and is obsessed with his family's safety.

 

JERMAINE DUPRI'S CAREER AT DEF JAM TERMINATED? [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

Record producer, songwriter, and rapper Jermaine Dupri has reportedly been fired from Island Def jam Music Group. A source, as quoted on SOHH.com, says, "I am being told that JD's termination papers were being drafted this afternoon (August 20)." The surprising rumour makes some claim that he is dropped because he has failed working on Janet Jackson's "Discipline", which does not share the success of her previous albums. Jermaine is also said to be responsible for Mariah Carey's "E=MC²", which is reportedly having problems with a follow-up single after "Touch My Body". To make matters worse, some continue criticizing him with Johnta Austin's projects, "Ocean Drive" that has been permanently shelved, and rumored upcoming "Love, Sex, and Religian" that hasn't been confirmed for release. Jermaine has been working for Def Jam as head of Def Jam Urban division since late 2006. He has produced Monica's 2006 fourth studio album "The Making of Me" and also worked on multiple tracks on Jay-Z's 2007 studio set "American Gangster" ever since. Jermaine and his management team have given no comment yet on the rumour. Def Jam's representatives have also been silent about the gossip. Other news say that Jermaine has closed down his restaurant, Cafe Dupri, in Atlanta. His employees claim that they haven't been paid for weeks because of faulty checks and no action was taken to get them fully compensated. However, the rapper's mother, Tina Mauldin, who served as CEO for the restaurant, shoots back by saying that all the workers have been fully paid.

 

TILA TEQUILA'S GIRLFRIEND: NOT THE RIGHT KIND OF FINE [E! Online, 8/22/08]

This probably isn't the kind of shot that Tila Tequila was talking about. Courtenay Semel, daughter of former Yahoo! mogul Terry Semel and current girlfriend of the equal-opportunity MTV star, was cited Wednesday (Aug. 20) in Las Vegas for misdemeanor battery after allegedly hitting a nightclub security guard on the back of the head. Vegas Metropolitan Police Department spokesman Officer Jay Rivera told E! News that Semel was trying to get into Caesars Palace hot spot Pure when she got into an argument with a bouncer at about 4 a.m. She had a "passport and a California I.D. in her possession, one of which was not in her name, and at that time she was detained by security," Rivera said. A source tells us that Semel had already spent the majority of the night at Pure and had no trouble getting in originally, so she couldn't say what led to the drama in the wee hours of the morning. Police confirm that Semel, a former pal of Lindsay Lohan who had her own reality-TV moment on E!'s privileged-kids-become-ranch-hands series Filthy Rich: Cattle Drive, was cited and released. She now has two options—either pay a fine or appear before a Sin City judge to plead her case.

 

EMMY SCOOP: MELROSE PLACE REUNION? [E! Online, 8/22/08]

Reunited and it feels so good.  Get ready for some of your ol' favorites to come together at the Emmys next month. I just got word that producers are putting together cast reunions to help celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Emmy Awards... Just two years ago, former Charlie's Angels pinups Farrah Fawcett, Jaclyn Smith and Kate Jackson came together for the first time at the Emmys in who knows how long to pay tribute to their show's creator, the late television maestro Aaron Spelling. Mr. Spelling may be there in spirit again when the awards show is broadcast live on ABC from L.A.'s Nokia Theatre Sept. 21, 2008 because, I'm told, producers are hot for a reunion of the Spelling-produced Melrose Place. But such a large cast could prove to be a planning nightmare, one source says. Think about it: Heather Locklear and her TV lover turned real-life boyfriend Jack Wagner, Courtney Thorne-Smith, Doug Savant, Josie Bissett, Andrew Shue, Grant Show and on and on. Also in the mix could be Desperate Housewives' resident redhead Marcia Cross and Sex and the City's Kristin Davis. Producers may also be looking at a Happy Days reunion. No doubt they'd have no problem convincing Henry Winkler, Scott Baio, Marion Ross, Tom Bosley, Erin Moran and others to take part. But will they be able to get Ron Howard to sing his Richie Cunningham cover of Fats Domino's "Blueberry Hill"? No word on other possible get-togethers—a rep for the Emmys won't confirm or deny any such reunions are even being talked about—but I'm thinking Dynasty, Dallas, Knots Landing and, of course, the original 90210. How about you? Any past favorites you'd like to see hit the Emmy stage? Leave your comments below.

 

TOM ARNOLD THROUGH WITH MARRIAGE AGAIN [E! Online, 8/22/08]

You can't keep a good man down, and you can't keep Tom Arnold married. The actor's third divorce was finalized Tuesday (Aug. 19), according to documents filed in Los Angeles Superior Court. Arnold, who filed for divorce from wife Shelby Roos in May 2007 after less than five years of holy matrimony, will pay his ex $15,000 a month in spousal support for 25 months, per the terms of a settlement the two reached on their own (plus lawyers, of course) in January.  But because Arnold started writing checks dating back to June 1, 2007, 25 months will be over on June 15, 2009. Their individual assets will remain separate and the True Lies sidekick, who most memorably was married to the loud-and-proud Roseanne Barr from January 1990 to December 1994, gets to keep their Tarzana, Calif., house. The duo had no children. After Roseanne and before Roos, Arnold was married to Julie Champnella, also for about four years.

 

GWEN STEFANI GIVES BIRTH TO SECOND SON [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

The long-awaited second baby of Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale has been born. The singer gave birth to a baby boy Thursday, August 21, 2008 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. The happy couple named their newborn infant Zuma Nesta Rock Rossdale. He was born at 12:46 P.M. and weighed 8 1/2 lbs. He joins older brother Kingston, who turned 2 in May. Neither Gwen nor Gavin has commented on the arrival of their second son. A representative for the couple, nevertheless, made an official confirmation on the baby's birth, issuing a statement that said "Kingston, Gwen and Gavin Rossdale welcomed the newest member of their family. Mother, baby and family are all happy and healthy." Gwen was seen checking into the hospital earlier in the morning. A throng of paparazzi was quick to follow her. Gavin, as reported by E! News, was spotted earlier in the afternoon running through the maternity ward, possibly looking for his wife's birthing suite. Gwen's second pregnancy was first revealed in late January. She has never made an official announcement on that matter, but her father-in-law confirmed to People, also in January, that the couple and "the whole family are delighted" over the new addition. The sex of the baby has never been revealed though as Gwen and Gavin wanted it to be a surprise.

 

MEL C TO ADD ANOTHER BABY SPICE [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

For quite a long time, Melanie C has been the only member of the popular '90s girlband, "Spice Girls", who doesn't have a child of her own, but that status seems to be left behind soon. Latest report related to the singer once nicknamed Sporty Spice has claimed that the 34-year-old is expecting her first baby with her partner of six years, Thomas Starr. If the story proved to be true, her baby would be "Spice Girls"'s eighth since the rest of the band have had seven children in total. Victoria Adams has three sons, Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz, from her husband, David Beckham. Melanie Brown has two daughters, Phoenix Chi and Angel Iris. Additionally, Geri Halliwell and Emma Bunton has one child each, a two-year-old daughter Bluebell for Geri and a one-year-old son Beau Lee for Emma.

 

RIHANNA, PINK, T.I. ADDED AS PERFORMERS AT VMAs [AP, 8/22/08]

Rihanna is back for another performance at the MTV Video Music Awards, along with Pink, Paramore and T.I., who will be making his first appearance at a major awards show since his arrest right before an awards ceremony last year. The VMAs are set for Sept. 7, 2008 in Los Angeles with British comedian Russell Brand as the host. Performers already announced include the Jonas Brothers, Lil Wayne and Kid Rock. Rihanna, who appeared with Chris Brown to sing her song "Umbrella" at last year's VMAs, is slated to perform her No. 1 hit "Disturbia"; Paramore plans to sing "Misery Business," while Pink is scheduled to showcase her new song "Say What." "I can't wait," Pink said Thursday (Aug. 21), adding that she plans to "blow stuff up." Rapper T.I.'s appearance will be noteworthy given that the last time he was scheduled to perform at an awards show, he was arrested instead. He was apprehended in the parking lot last October before the BET Hip-Hop Awards in Atlanta and accused of trying to buy machine guns and silencers; he was sentenced earlier this year to serve about a year in prison after completing at least 1,000 hours of community service. He has a new album out next month.

 

ANGIE HARMON, JASON SEHORN EXPECTING THIRD CHILD [AP, 8/22/08]

Angie Harmon and husband Jason Sehorn are expecting their third child, Harmon's publicist confirmed Wednesday (Aug. 20). The 36-year-old actress and 37-year-old former National Football League player were married in 2001 and have two daughters, 4-year-old Finley and 3-year-old Avery. Harmon's TV credits include "Law & Order" and "Women's Murder Club." Sehorn played for the New York Giants and the St. Louis Rams. Sehorn proposed to Harmon on the "Tonight" show, surprising her in front of host Jay Leno by walking on stage, kneeling down and popping the question.

 

FORMER COUPLE RYAN GOSLING AND RACHAEL MCADAMS BACK ON [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

Adding fuel to rumors on the street that they have rekindled their broken love relationship, Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams have been seen spending time together again. Instead of simply enjoying each other's company, they have been spotted getting cozy. Ryan and Rachel are former couple. They began dating in 2004 after becoming co-stars in the drama flick "The Notebook". The two split back in 2007, giving no single clue on why they decided to go separate ways. Apparently good at keeping the gossip guessing about the status of their relationship, Ryan and Rachel were seen having dinner with some of their friends in Toronto at Grace restaurant on Monday night, August 19. Citing an unnamed Canadian gossip website, People claimed the twosome held hands during the meal. Representatives for both Ryan and Rachel remain tight-lipped on rumors that their celebrity clients have been back together again.

 

SOPHIE MONK WEIGHING MILLION DOLLAR PLAYBOY OFFER [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

Australian model Sophie Monk has been said to be given a hefty offer to bare all in Playboy magazine. Latest report concerning the former girlfriend of Good Charlotte's guitarist Benji Madden claimed that the 28-year-old is weighing her options for the proposed $1 million bid for her stripping nude in the men's magazine. Monk who has once appeared in "Date Movie" allegedly has been approached by Playboy editors since they believe she could boost their sales. To Star Magazine, Monk's friend said, "They think she'll break sales records. Especially in Australia." Further on the story, Star reported that this is not the first lucrative deal thrown by Playboy to Monk. She was given a huge offer when she was engaged to Madden, but she didn't take the deal because Madden didn't approve of it. Monk and Madden split earlier this year. The separation was announced officially on February 12, 2008 through Monk's Sydney agent who stated, "Sophie and Benji have officially split. The decision was mutual and they remain amicable." Since then, Monk has been linked to "American Idol" presenter Ryan Seacrest.

 

ACTOR LUKE WILSON DATING MEG SIMPSON [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

Rarely making media headlines with his love life, Luke Wilson is reported to have been dating a lady who used to be a basketball player during her school years. The woman is identified as Meg Simpson and various gossip websites have claimed that she's 6 foot tall, only 2 inches shorter than Luke. More about Meg, she reportedly is 28 years old, has blonde hair and used to play basketball at Yale. She met Luke for the first time at a sports event at the University of Pennsylvania in July. The actor actually went there with fellow movie star Morgan Freeman. Yet, it is claimed that he spent most of his time there having a conversation with her. Despite the not-yet-confirmed dating report, rumor has it that Luke and Meg have been having a string of dates. He even has introduced her to some of his friends. "Everyone really liked her. She seems great," a source testified. Having his latest flick, the comedy-drama "Henry Poole Is Here" already hit the theaters last week, Luke could next be seen starring in comedy movie "Tenure" which is set to be released next year.

 

NSYNC PLANNING POSSIBLE REUNION [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

Former NSYNC's member, Chris Kirkpatrick has hinted to the boy band's fans that the boys will, some day, reunite. "Someday, there'll be an NSYNC reunion," Chris has recently told OK!. After their breakup in 2002 as Justin Timberlake desires to explore his musical talent in a solo career, Chris admits that he still loves to be back in the group. "We get along like brothers," he says. "We all love each other. We all care about each other. I'm sure we'll come back." Asked about the exact time of their comeback, Chris says that the journey is still a long way to go. "I don't think the time is right now," he confirms. "Maybe a few years down the road when we have gotten a chance to realize who we are as individuals." Other members of the group, such as Justin, JC Chasez, Lance Bass, and Joey Fatone have been silent for confirmation. However, Chris is still positive with the reunion. He firmly states, "We'll get back together as a group and put more music out." Another report says that Chris joins the contestants of reality show called 'Gone Country 2". He will compete with Lorenzo Lamas, Irene Cara, Jermaine Jackson, Sebastian Bach, Mikalah Gordon, and actress Sean Young. "I just wanted to learn what it was like, how it's written, because it's a completely different style of music than what I'm used to with the rock, pop and R&B," he gives his comment. "Everything about the writing style and the music is different in this genre."

 

ANOTHER COLDPLAY ALBUM MAY COME OUT IN 2008 [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

There could be a whole new album from Coldplay this year after a report said that there are many unused songs in the band's inventory. The Sun reported that the writing sessions of "Viva la Vida", released in June this year, was so productive that the cut songs can make up a new compilation set. The band worked on "Viva" with producer Brian Eno and spawned an album which has successful chart history. It sold 721,000 copies on the first week and went on to platinum in U.S. "The Viva La Vida sessions were incredibly fruitful," a source told The Sun. "They gelled brilliantly with Brian and recorded much more music than they could fit on one album." Yet, the source added that the band may have to take time in the middle of their world tour to return to the studio to do some polishing and additional songs. "The majority of the follow-up is already in the can, though they will have to go back into the studio at some point to add a few more songs," the source continued. If indeed the album is materialized, then it will make up the last release from the band for current label EMI. The source added, "Standard industry contracts tend to be for six albums, so if they provide some kind of compilation after their next album they will be free agents and able to renegotiate their contract or head out on their own." There were rumors circulating back in January that Coldplay would wave EMI goodbye in the footsteps of the label's other artists such as Radiohead and Paul McCartney because they "don't necessarily need a label" to release new albums. It was debunked by EMI later on but the band remain mum about it. Outside the possible compilation, frontman Chris Martin previously said that he has yanked out a duet track with Kylie Minogue titled "Lunar" from "Viva" but will include it in the next album. "It will be on a record we will put out in 2009," he unveiled.

 

LEONA LEWIS AND JIMMY PAGE TO PLAY SET AT OLYMPIC UNEARTHED [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

It has been reported sometime ago that Leona Lewis will appear at the closing ceremony of Beijing Olympic Games on August 24, performing a duet with Led Zeppelin's guitarist, Jimmy Page. It is now revealed that the spectacular collaboration will present a version of Zeppelin's 1969 song "Whole Lotta Love". The play set was supposed to be a top secret but it was unveiled by one of the musicians who will support them in the performance. Bassist Guy Pratt who has worked with numerous rock stars, spilled on his blog, "You may also be interested to know that when Jimmy Page and Leona Lewis perform Whole Lotta Love at the end of the Olympics, that's me playing bass on it." Still, there is no confirmation from the show's organizer regarding the song. "Whole Lotta Love" appeared in the legendary rock band's second album "Led Zeppelin II" and was ranked no. 75 by Rolling Stone in its 500 Greatest Songs of All Time list. Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that David Beckham too will appear at the closing ceremony, arriving on top of a red double-decker bus and kick soccer balls to children representing all the countries competing in the games. He, Leona and Jimmy all represent London as the next host of the games in 2012.

 

MARION DENIES BEING DROPPED, SPEAKS ON JOINING TIMBALAND [Aceshowbiz, 8/22/08]

Former lead singer of boyband B2K, Omarion tells MTV that he signed to Timbaland's Record, Mosley Music Group without any interference from others. He also firmly slams down rumour, claiming that he had been fired by Sony/Columbia Records due to a poor record sale. In an interview, he says, "I asked to be released. A release is different from a drop. When an artist is dropped, usually they haven't brought any revenue to the company. As you know, I've been with that company for a long time, roughly over six years. Throughout B2K and my solo albums, revenue was still brought in." Meanwhile, when asked about B2K, he says that he tries to be more positive but still part of him, despite his forgiveness, admits he has been hurt. After spending six years of his career in Sony, Omarion decided to leave the label and move to Mosley Group. Regardless of the rumour, at the time he said that he felt the need to change labels because there was no comfort in Sony after their changes that had happened over the past few years. Furthermore, Omarion believes that his move to Mosley is the best decision that he has ever made because Timbaland, is not only a producer but also a visionary. "He's a great producer, and he's really at the top of his game right now," Omarion declared. "I can't ask for a better person to guide me. We did 'Ice Box.' It wasn't enough for us to really build a solid relationship. But I've got to spend time with him, and we have a strong relationship. It's the biggest blessing that has happened to me musically." Unfortunately, Omarion refuses to give any fixed date for his upcoming release. His guest stars are also kept as a secret. A recent report says that he will team up with producer Pharrell Williams in one of his new tracks.

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