Recently single Dave Navarro doesn't seem to be wasting any time getting back in the dating game, as he was spotted flirting with a bevy of blondes at a party one of whom was Paris Hilton.
Rocking up to the bash at the heir-head's home, the former Jane's Addiction guitarist and ex-husband of Carmen Electra was surrounded by girls all evening, Life & Style Weekly reports.
And that includes hostess Paris herself - the magazine quotes an onlooker as saying: "They were quite the pair, the drunken heiress and the lascivious rock star.
"I don't even think she knew she was talking to Dave. I think she thought he was a tree."
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Hollywood heavyweights to produce Asian epic
Harvey and Bob Weinstein, the producers of cinematic treats such as Chicago and Kill Bill, are adding a new film to their resume.
The powerful producers will be releasing a Kazakhstan-produced film, Nomad, which has been described as an epic about "courage and romance".
The $40 million film is being made by the central Asian country to boost tourism and give the world an accurate depiction of the country that has been satirised in the latest Sacha Baron Cohen film, Borat.
Borat Sagdiyev, a fictional TV reporter played by Cohen, has won many fans for his comical adventures, particularly in his latest film.
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America For Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan is to be released in London around the same time as Kazakhstans leader, President Nursultan Nazarbayev, visits the city.
Kazakhstans foreign ministry spokesman, Yerzhan Ashykbayev, says that the decision to make a big-budget film in his home country is not a direct response to Borat, but said the region does want to show the world what it is really like.
"We understand that Borat is a kind of satire, but it is just a pity that Mr Cohen chose Kazakhstan as the origin of his hero," Mr Ashykbayev told the Times.
"As far as I know, he has never been to Kazakhstan, although there have been efforts on the part of some people here to invite him so that he can see what our country is really like."
The powerful producers will be releasing a Kazakhstan-produced film, Nomad, which has been described as an epic about "courage and romance".
The $40 million film is being made by the central Asian country to boost tourism and give the world an accurate depiction of the country that has been satirised in the latest Sacha Baron Cohen film, Borat.
Borat Sagdiyev, a fictional TV reporter played by Cohen, has won many fans for his comical adventures, particularly in his latest film.
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America For Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan is to be released in London around the same time as Kazakhstans leader, President Nursultan Nazarbayev, visits the city.
Kazakhstans foreign ministry spokesman, Yerzhan Ashykbayev, says that the decision to make a big-budget film in his home country is not a direct response to Borat, but said the region does want to show the world what it is really like.
"We understand that Borat is a kind of satire, but it is just a pity that Mr Cohen chose Kazakhstan as the origin of his hero," Mr Ashykbayev told the Times.
"As far as I know, he has never been to Kazakhstan, although there have been efforts on the part of some people here to invite him so that he can see what our country is really like."
'Hermione' unsure about Harry Potter plans
She has grown up on-screen playing Hermione, but Emma Watson is yet to confirm that she will continue appearing in the Harry Potter films.
Committing to the next two films, which are in the early stages of pre-production, would mean that Watson would play the character until she was 20.
But the actress has other plans for her future.
"I love to perform, but there are so many things I love doing," the 16-year-old said.
"Maybe that sounds ungrateful. I've been given such an amazing opportunity, but I'll just have to go with the flow."
Daniel Radcliffe, who plays Harry, and Rupert Grint, who completes the trio as Ron Weasley, are currently in negotiations and look set to appear in the final two films.
Producer David Heyman, who has been with the franchise since the original film rights were acquired from J.K Rowling, says that he is quietly optimistic that the three actors will return to the project.
"It would be a hard thing to change and it would be disrupting," he said.
"I would love them all to see it through to the end. I adore themI feel like an uncle or godfatherbut ultimately they have to do what's right for them. This is their lives."
The fifth film in the series, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, is currently filming north of London.
Committing to the next two films, which are in the early stages of pre-production, would mean that Watson would play the character until she was 20.
But the actress has other plans for her future.
"I love to perform, but there are so many things I love doing," the 16-year-old said.
"Maybe that sounds ungrateful. I've been given such an amazing opportunity, but I'll just have to go with the flow."
Daniel Radcliffe, who plays Harry, and Rupert Grint, who completes the trio as Ron Weasley, are currently in negotiations and look set to appear in the final two films.
Producer David Heyman, who has been with the franchise since the original film rights were acquired from J.K Rowling, says that he is quietly optimistic that the three actors will return to the project.
"It would be a hard thing to change and it would be disrupting," he said.
"I would love them all to see it through to the end. I adore themI feel like an uncle or godfatherbut ultimately they have to do what's right for them. This is their lives."
The fifth film in the series, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, is currently filming north of London.
Blunt plays for the troops
James Blunt was no doubt feeling a wave of familiarity as he played to members of the British Armed Forces in Kosovo last night.
Before his career as a singer, which has seen him win awards for hit songs such as You're Beautiful, Blunt graduated from the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst and served time as an officer for the Life Guards in Kosovo.
No Bravery, one of the tracks on his debut album Back to Bedlam, is inspired by his experiences there.
Speaking to the Sun about his time in the Balkans, Blunt said: "It was high-pressure stuff. I was there during the bombing.
"But I met some extraordinary people. It was quite an experience."
He played in front of hundreds of troops last night and was supported by Welsh singer Katherine Jenkins for the gig.
But although Blunt seems to be able to make time for concerts supporting issues close to his heart, he came under fire at the weekend for failing to back a party organised by his girlfriend, the model Petra Nemcova.
A friend told the Sunday Mirror: "Petra has been really upset because James told her that he would definitely be there. But then he changed his mind and told her he had an important recording to do in Ibiza."
Before his career as a singer, which has seen him win awards for hit songs such as You're Beautiful, Blunt graduated from the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst and served time as an officer for the Life Guards in Kosovo.
No Bravery, one of the tracks on his debut album Back to Bedlam, is inspired by his experiences there.
Speaking to the Sun about his time in the Balkans, Blunt said: "It was high-pressure stuff. I was there during the bombing.
"But I met some extraordinary people. It was quite an experience."
He played in front of hundreds of troops last night and was supported by Welsh singer Katherine Jenkins for the gig.
But although Blunt seems to be able to make time for concerts supporting issues close to his heart, he came under fire at the weekend for failing to back a party organised by his girlfriend, the model Petra Nemcova.
A friend told the Sunday Mirror: "Petra has been really upset because James told her that he would definitely be there. But then he changed his mind and told her he had an important recording to do in Ibiza."
Jackson parts with record label
Michael Jackson has parted ways with his record label, Two Seas.
The Bahrain-based record label was due to release his new album, the first from the singer in five years.
It is unclear as to why the two have split but Jackson's spokeswoman Raymone Bain told the BBC that he was no longer affiliated with the label.
Guy Holmes, chairman of UK label Gut Records was named manager of Two Seas and was expected to oversee the production of the album.
However he is also now said to have no affiliations with the singer, and is reported to have never finalised a deal with Jackson.
Reports have suggested that producer Teddy Riley had been lined up to work on the project, but Bain refused to confirm the rumours.
It's the latest announcement in a long line of dramatic splits for the US singer this year. In June he severed ties with his long-term accountants, business managers and attorneys.
In their place he announced plans to launch The Michael Jackson Company with Raymone Bain as the general manager.
The Bahrain-based record label was due to release his new album, the first from the singer in five years.
It is unclear as to why the two have split but Jackson's spokeswoman Raymone Bain told the BBC that he was no longer affiliated with the label.
Guy Holmes, chairman of UK label Gut Records was named manager of Two Seas and was expected to oversee the production of the album.
However he is also now said to have no affiliations with the singer, and is reported to have never finalised a deal with Jackson.
Reports have suggested that producer Teddy Riley had been lined up to work on the project, but Bain refused to confirm the rumours.
It's the latest announcement in a long line of dramatic splits for the US singer this year. In June he severed ties with his long-term accountants, business managers and attorneys.
In their place he announced plans to launch The Michael Jackson Company with Raymone Bain as the general manager.
Paris charged with drunk driving
Paris Hilton was charged with drunk driving yesterday, making her supposed late-night dash for a hamburger earlier in the month more costly than she thought.
The celebrity heiress was arrested by police in Los Angeles in the early hours of September 7th after she failed a breath test, which found that her blood-alcohol level was 0.08 per cent, the legal limit in California.
Frank Mateljan, a spokesman for the city's attorney, confirmed that the 25-year-old socialite had been charged on two misdemeanour counts driving under the influence of alcohol and driving with a blood-alcohol level above California's legal limit.
Although the charges carry a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $1,000 (£530) fine, if found guilty, Paris is more likely to be given probation and ordered to attend an alcohol-rehabilitation programme, the usual punishment given to first-time offenders.
A court hearing over the case is due to take place tomorrow, although Paris is not expected to attend.
Paris' spokesman, Elliot Mintz, said that the charges against her were nor unexpected.
"We are going to proceed with the judicial process," he said.
Paris, currently promoting her new album overseas, told an LA radio station following her arrest that she was on her way to get a late-night burger when she was pulled over by police, who claim that the star was driving erratically.
The heiress-turned-singer, who claims that she had not eaten anything all day and had consumed just one drink after attending a charity event, denied driving recklessly, but admitted to radio host Ryan Seacrest that she was probably "speeding a little bit".
The celebrity heiress was arrested by police in Los Angeles in the early hours of September 7th after she failed a breath test, which found that her blood-alcohol level was 0.08 per cent, the legal limit in California.
Frank Mateljan, a spokesman for the city's attorney, confirmed that the 25-year-old socialite had been charged on two misdemeanour counts driving under the influence of alcohol and driving with a blood-alcohol level above California's legal limit.
Although the charges carry a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $1,000 (£530) fine, if found guilty, Paris is more likely to be given probation and ordered to attend an alcohol-rehabilitation programme, the usual punishment given to first-time offenders.
A court hearing over the case is due to take place tomorrow, although Paris is not expected to attend.
Paris' spokesman, Elliot Mintz, said that the charges against her were nor unexpected.
"We are going to proceed with the judicial process," he said.
Paris, currently promoting her new album overseas, told an LA radio station following her arrest that she was on her way to get a late-night burger when she was pulled over by police, who claim that the star was driving erratically.
The heiress-turned-singer, who claims that she had not eaten anything all day and had consumed just one drink after attending a charity event, denied driving recklessly, but admitted to radio host Ryan Seacrest that she was probably "speeding a little bit".
Simpson 'storms out of sister's party'
Jessica Simpson stormed out of the party to mark her sister Ashlee's West End debut on Monday night, the Mirror reports.
The paper claims that the actress and singer, who has so far overshadowed her younger sibling's professional success, left the bash at London's Sound Bar fuming: "I don't want to be here - why won't people just leave me alone?"
Her father Joe subsequently told the Mirror that his eldest daughter, who split from husband Nick Lachey last year, was "quite down".
"She's not comfortable talking to people as she's quite depressed and we're walking on eggshells," he lamented.
Reports indicate that Jessica's behaviour following Ashlee's first performance as Roxie Hart in the stage show Chicago wasn't fuelled by jealousy of her sister's new-found fame.
The star, who flew to London especially to watch Ashlee perform, admitted that she had cried with pride at seeing her tread the boards.
"I was weeping. I was so proud. I couldn't be more proud of her," Jessica told BBC Radio 1 following the show.
The paper claims that the actress and singer, who has so far overshadowed her younger sibling's professional success, left the bash at London's Sound Bar fuming: "I don't want to be here - why won't people just leave me alone?"
Her father Joe subsequently told the Mirror that his eldest daughter, who split from husband Nick Lachey last year, was "quite down".
"She's not comfortable talking to people as she's quite depressed and we're walking on eggshells," he lamented.
Reports indicate that Jessica's behaviour following Ashlee's first performance as Roxie Hart in the stage show Chicago wasn't fuelled by jealousy of her sister's new-found fame.
The star, who flew to London especially to watch Ashlee perform, admitted that she had cried with pride at seeing her tread the boards.
"I was weeping. I was so proud. I couldn't be more proud of her," Jessica told BBC Radio 1 following the show.
The Prada shoe 'doesn't fit' the star
The star of 'The Devil Wears Prada' says she steers clear from the luxurious label in real life.
Meryl Streep confessed that unlike her character in the film, she only owns one pair of Prada shoes and she doesn't wear them often.
Speaking to French publication Madame Figaro, the actress confessed: 'They make my feet hurt.'
However, she admits it's not the footwear's fault or Prada's for that matter.
'They are exquisitely made,' Meryl added, saying she blames her feet.
'I've got my mother's feet,' she told the magazine.
The 57-year-old stars opposite Anna Hathaway in the screen adaptation of the bestseller book written by a former Vogue worker.
It is believed that Meryl's character is loosely based on the American editor of the glossy publication, the glamorous Anna Wintour.
Meryl Streep confessed that unlike her character in the film, she only owns one pair of Prada shoes and she doesn't wear them often.
Speaking to French publication Madame Figaro, the actress confessed: 'They make my feet hurt.'
However, she admits it's not the footwear's fault or Prada's for that matter.
'They are exquisitely made,' Meryl added, saying she blames her feet.
'I've got my mother's feet,' she told the magazine.
The 57-year-old stars opposite Anna Hathaway in the screen adaptation of the bestseller book written by a former Vogue worker.
It is believed that Meryl's character is loosely based on the American editor of the glossy publication, the glamorous Anna Wintour.
'Aerosmith' frontman on secret hepatitis struggle
Steven Tyler has admitted in a candid interview that he suffered from hepatitis C.
Speaking exclusively with Access Hollywood, the 'Aerosmith' frontman admitted that he was diagnosed with the liver disease three years ago.
I talked to my doctor ... and he said now is the time and it's 11 months of chemotherapy. So I went on that and it about killed me,' Tyler revealed.
The singer went on to reveal that after the treatment, the disease was 'non-existent' in his bloodstream.
The 58-year-old father of actress Liv and model Mia said that he kept the state of his health private during treatment.
In comparison, former 'Baywatch' star Pamela Anderson went public with her diagnosis of the disease four years ago.
She was infected through sharing a tattoo needle with her former hubby Tommy Lee and launched a scathing attack on the rocker when she was diagnosed after their split.
'Tommy has the disease and never disclosed it to me during our marriage,' Pammy revealed at the time.
Speaking exclusively with Access Hollywood, the 'Aerosmith' frontman admitted that he was diagnosed with the liver disease three years ago.
I talked to my doctor ... and he said now is the time and it's 11 months of chemotherapy. So I went on that and it about killed me,' Tyler revealed.
The singer went on to reveal that after the treatment, the disease was 'non-existent' in his bloodstream.
The 58-year-old father of actress Liv and model Mia said that he kept the state of his health private during treatment.
In comparison, former 'Baywatch' star Pamela Anderson went public with her diagnosis of the disease four years ago.
She was infected through sharing a tattoo needle with her former hubby Tommy Lee and launched a scathing attack on the rocker when she was diagnosed after their split.
'Tommy has the disease and never disclosed it to me during our marriage,' Pammy revealed at the time.
Brangelina in British move?
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's 'people' are reportedly looking for a Cotswold property where they can set up house.
The couple, who together own various properties across the globe, are reportedly interested in buying a luxury property in the Lower Mill Estate in the area.
It is believed that they are particularly interested in the fact that the new development would offer them 'guaranteed' security, according to an insider speaking to the Daily Express.
The source also claimed that the 550-acre estate offer the kind of properties that are 'very much for the kind of people for whom money is no object'.
Angelina has previously held a British address, having lived in Buckinghamshire with her son Maddox.
She then adopted Zahara from Ethiopia and the family followed Brad around the globe during his filming of 'Jesse James' before the clan settled in Paris for a few months.
Brangelina and their kids then spent time in Namibia, where Shiloh was born, before moving back to Brad's Malibu pad.
The couple, who together own various properties across the globe, are reportedly interested in buying a luxury property in the Lower Mill Estate in the area.
It is believed that they are particularly interested in the fact that the new development would offer them 'guaranteed' security, according to an insider speaking to the Daily Express.
The source also claimed that the 550-acre estate offer the kind of properties that are 'very much for the kind of people for whom money is no object'.
Angelina has previously held a British address, having lived in Buckinghamshire with her son Maddox.
She then adopted Zahara from Ethiopia and the family followed Brad around the globe during his filming of 'Jesse James' before the clan settled in Paris for a few months.
Brangelina and their kids then spent time in Namibia, where Shiloh was born, before moving back to Brad's Malibu pad.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
George Michael kicks off controversial show
George Michael has caused more than a whiff of controversy on the first night of his 25 Live tour this weekend.
In his first foray back into touring after 15 years, the 33-year-old singer made his political thoughts known during the performance of the controversial song Shoot the Dog.
A number of people reacted angrily to the video for the song when it was released in 2002 as it showed George Bush in a derogatory light and Tony Blair as his lapdog.
In keeping with this theme, during the concert an enormous balloon in the shape of the American president emerged from the stage. Michael then unzipped the trousers on the balloon to reveal a British bulldog nuzzling Bush's groin and wagging his tail.
Attempting to promote his singing rather than the cheeky behaviour which has landed him in trouble in the past, Michael said: "As much as I'm going to disappoint those people who want to see more of my bottom, I'm going to be less of a showman and more of a singer."
But it's unlikely that a bit of controversy will do him much harm if he is able to follow in Madonna's footsteps.
The queen of pop recently offended many religious groups with a mock crucifixion sequence in her Confessions tour, but went on to become the female artist with the biggest grossing tour ever.
In his first foray back into touring after 15 years, the 33-year-old singer made his political thoughts known during the performance of the controversial song Shoot the Dog.
A number of people reacted angrily to the video for the song when it was released in 2002 as it showed George Bush in a derogatory light and Tony Blair as his lapdog.
In keeping with this theme, during the concert an enormous balloon in the shape of the American president emerged from the stage. Michael then unzipped the trousers on the balloon to reveal a British bulldog nuzzling Bush's groin and wagging his tail.
Attempting to promote his singing rather than the cheeky behaviour which has landed him in trouble in the past, Michael said: "As much as I'm going to disappoint those people who want to see more of my bottom, I'm going to be less of a showman and more of a singer."
But it's unlikely that a bit of controversy will do him much harm if he is able to follow in Madonna's footsteps.
The queen of pop recently offended many religious groups with a mock crucifixion sequence in her Confessions tour, but went on to become the female artist with the biggest grossing tour ever.
Final line-up for Electric Proms announced
Will Young and the legendary 60s singer Donovan are part of the final line up for the BBC's Electric Proms.
Artists announced so far include Kasabian, James Brown, Fatboy Slim and The Who.
In the latest announcement, Camden's Roundhouse will play host to a hub session between the singer/songwriter Billy Bragg and Mercury Music prize nominee Seth Lakeman.
Donovan will perform as part of the freak zone and will be joined by folk singer Vashti Bunyan in a unique collaborative performance. For the Asian network night Punjabi folk brothers Tigerstyle will combine their contemporary style with full backing from a string quartet.
Nitin Sawhney, a producer, songwriter and DJ, will perform for one night with contributions from artists including Fink, Tina Grace and Will Young.
The link between poets and MCs is set to be explored in the word sound power event, which sees hip hop MC Rodney P pair up with poets including Benjamin Zephaniah.
The Electric Proms will take place at venues in north London from October 25th to October 29th and seek to showcase performances that are new and innovative.
Artists announced so far include Kasabian, James Brown, Fatboy Slim and The Who.
In the latest announcement, Camden's Roundhouse will play host to a hub session between the singer/songwriter Billy Bragg and Mercury Music prize nominee Seth Lakeman.
Donovan will perform as part of the freak zone and will be joined by folk singer Vashti Bunyan in a unique collaborative performance. For the Asian network night Punjabi folk brothers Tigerstyle will combine their contemporary style with full backing from a string quartet.
Nitin Sawhney, a producer, songwriter and DJ, will perform for one night with contributions from artists including Fink, Tina Grace and Will Young.
The link between poets and MCs is set to be explored in the word sound power event, which sees hip hop MC Rodney P pair up with poets including Benjamin Zephaniah.
The Electric Proms will take place at venues in north London from October 25th to October 29th and seek to showcase performances that are new and innovative.
Julie Andrews receives lifetime award
Julie Andrews is to be given a lifetime achievement award from the Screen Actors Guild (Sag).
It is the highest award that her fellow actors can bestow on the English actress and singer, and she will receive it during the Sag awards ceremony on January 28th next year.
Andrews shot to fame with one of her best-known early films, Mary Poppins, for which she won an Oscar and a Golden Globe for best actress in a leading role.
She was further nominated for a best actress Oscar for her roles as Maria in the 1965 classic The Sound of Music and the 1982 hit Victor/Victoria.
Her singing career suffered a major setback in 1997 after she suffered voice troubles and had to undergo surgery to remove vocal nodules from her throat.
More recently Andrews has appeared in popular mainstream titles Shrek Two, Shrek the Third, The Princess Diaries and The Princess Diaries Two: Royal Engagement.
It is the highest award that her fellow actors can bestow on the English actress and singer, and she will receive it during the Sag awards ceremony on January 28th next year.
Andrews shot to fame with one of her best-known early films, Mary Poppins, for which she won an Oscar and a Golden Globe for best actress in a leading role.
She was further nominated for a best actress Oscar for her roles as Maria in the 1965 classic The Sound of Music and the 1982 hit Victor/Victoria.
Her singing career suffered a major setback in 1997 after she suffered voice troubles and had to undergo surgery to remove vocal nodules from her throat.
More recently Andrews has appeared in popular mainstream titles Shrek Two, Shrek the Third, The Princess Diaries and The Princess Diaries Two: Royal Engagement.
McCartney insists: "I'm doing fine"
Former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney has insisted that he is "doing fine" following his recent break-up with his second wife Heather Mills.
His comments follow a report in the Daily Mirror claiming that the 64-year-old singer had told fellow guests at a weekend party that he didn't know how to come to terms with the end of his four-year marriage to Mills, 38.
But at a press conference to launch his new classical album yesterday, McCartney insisted: "I'm doing fine thank you. It's OK."
Although McCartney did not directly refer to his marriage split during the conference, he added that his music had helped him to cope over recent months.
"I'm enjoying music. It's something I love to do. It's something that sustains me. So I'm enjoying it, finishing this project off and also the next one," said the star.
McCartney also told reporters that his new album Ecce Cor Meum (Behold My Heart) embodied the "spirit" of his first wife Linda, whom the musical work is dedicated to.
The singer explained that the death of his first love from breast cancer in 1998 was the reason the album, which has lyrics in both English and Latin, had taken eight years to complete.
"When she died, it stalled me, it took a year or so before I could get back into it. So her spirit is very much in this," McCartney said.
His comments follow a report in the Daily Mirror claiming that the 64-year-old singer had told fellow guests at a weekend party that he didn't know how to come to terms with the end of his four-year marriage to Mills, 38.
But at a press conference to launch his new classical album yesterday, McCartney insisted: "I'm doing fine thank you. It's OK."
Although McCartney did not directly refer to his marriage split during the conference, he added that his music had helped him to cope over recent months.
"I'm enjoying music. It's something I love to do. It's something that sustains me. So I'm enjoying it, finishing this project off and also the next one," said the star.
McCartney also told reporters that his new album Ecce Cor Meum (Behold My Heart) embodied the "spirit" of his first wife Linda, whom the musical work is dedicated to.
The singer explained that the death of his first love from breast cancer in 1998 was the reason the album, which has lyrics in both English and Latin, had taken eight years to complete.
"When she died, it stalled me, it took a year or so before I could get back into it. So her spirit is very much in this," McCartney said.
Lindsay Lohan's father makes public reconciliation plea
Lindsay Lohan's estranged father has attempted to reconcile himself with her by sending out an open letter to the actress.
In the letter, which he sent to the Sun newspaper, he attempts to heal the rift between the pair by telling her how much he loves her and how proud he is of her.
As to why an open letter to his daughter via a British tabloid is necessary, Michael Lohan writes: "It pains me to have to write to you like this, but it's evident that my letters never reach you. My messages never get to you and people continue to build walls between us."
In 2004 Michael was sentenced to four years in a New York jail for drink driving, attempted assault, aggravated harassment and criminal contempt.
Lindsay, who stars in the forthcoming film Georgia Rule, is reported to have been extremely hurt by her father's actions and has often spoken of her bitterness towards him.
Attempting to sway his daughter's opinion of him, he adds: "I can't even begin to tell you how very sorry I am for causing you (and our family) the heartache and embarrassment I have.
"I also know the pain that comes with love, especially when two hearts and lives are divided. Sometimes we run we seek to hide or just escape from the pain."
Lindsay is often in the press for her reportedly-partying ways, and the studio boss of her latest film sent out a shock letter lambasting her behaviour. Jane Fonda, her co-star in Georgia Rule, has also warned that Lindsay needs to slow down or risk getting burnt out.
Adding his two-pence worth of advice, her father concludes: "You are an amazingly blessed, talented, intelligent and loving person. Use it to do good! To set an example by putting God and his principles first. Your love for life and people is a gift."
In the letter, which he sent to the Sun newspaper, he attempts to heal the rift between the pair by telling her how much he loves her and how proud he is of her.
As to why an open letter to his daughter via a British tabloid is necessary, Michael Lohan writes: "It pains me to have to write to you like this, but it's evident that my letters never reach you. My messages never get to you and people continue to build walls between us."
In 2004 Michael was sentenced to four years in a New York jail for drink driving, attempted assault, aggravated harassment and criminal contempt.
Lindsay, who stars in the forthcoming film Georgia Rule, is reported to have been extremely hurt by her father's actions and has often spoken of her bitterness towards him.
Attempting to sway his daughter's opinion of him, he adds: "I can't even begin to tell you how very sorry I am for causing you (and our family) the heartache and embarrassment I have.
"I also know the pain that comes with love, especially when two hearts and lives are divided. Sometimes we run we seek to hide or just escape from the pain."
Lindsay is often in the press for her reportedly-partying ways, and the studio boss of her latest film sent out a shock letter lambasting her behaviour. Jane Fonda, her co-star in Georgia Rule, has also warned that Lindsay needs to slow down or risk getting burnt out.
Adding his two-pence worth of advice, her father concludes: "You are an amazingly blessed, talented, intelligent and loving person. Use it to do good! To set an example by putting God and his principles first. Your love for life and people is a gift."
Tom and Katie want more kids
The birth of their first child caused a media storm and sources say that it will happen again soon.
Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, who welcomed daughter Suri this year, are reportedly eager to add more children to their family.
Cruise has two adopted children, Isabella and Conor, with ex-wife Nicole Kidman.
And while the couple are yet to make their union official, a source told National Enquirer magazine that Homes is enthusiastic about becoming a mum again.
'She loves being a mum and can't wait to do it again. But first, she wants to be Tom's wife - so they've made a pact,' the insider explained.
The Hollywood mega-stars, who have dodged bad press after Cruise's contract with Paramount Studios was not renewed, are believed to be planning a wedding for autumn.
'Tom's always intended to make Katie his wife, but other things kept getting in the way. Now, the thought of becoming a biological father for the second time has put their wedding on the front burner,' the source claimed.
Cruise and Holmes started dating in early 2005, were engaged two months later in Paris and welcomed Suri this April.
Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, who welcomed daughter Suri this year, are reportedly eager to add more children to their family.
Cruise has two adopted children, Isabella and Conor, with ex-wife Nicole Kidman.
And while the couple are yet to make their union official, a source told National Enquirer magazine that Homes is enthusiastic about becoming a mum again.
'She loves being a mum and can't wait to do it again. But first, she wants to be Tom's wife - so they've made a pact,' the insider explained.
The Hollywood mega-stars, who have dodged bad press after Cruise's contract with Paramount Studios was not renewed, are believed to be planning a wedding for autumn.
'Tom's always intended to make Katie his wife, but other things kept getting in the way. Now, the thought of becoming a biological father for the second time has put their wedding on the front burner,' the source claimed.
Cruise and Holmes started dating in early 2005, were engaged two months later in Paris and welcomed Suri this April.
Janet and Justin still not talking after 'Nipplegate'
Her performance at the 2004 Super Bowl became infamous due to 'Nipplegate', but Janet Jackson admits that she hasn't spoken to Justin Timberlake since.
Appearing on 'The Oprah Winfrey Show' to promote her latest album, Jackson revealed that she hasn't reconciled any ill feeling between her and the pop star since he accidentally ripped her corset and revealed her breast.
'We haven't spoken. But I consider him a friend and I'm very loyal and friendship is very important to me,' the singer told Oprah.
'He has reached out to speak with me. Like I said, friendship is very important to me and certain things you just don't do to friends. And in my own time, I'll give him a call.'
Speaking to MTV recently, while promoting his own album, Timberlake was still dodging questions about the performance.
'If there was something I could have done in her defense that was more than I realised then, I would have,' he said.
'I probably got ten percent of the blame.'
Jackson's latest album, '20 Y.O' will be released in the coming weeks.
Appearing on 'The Oprah Winfrey Show' to promote her latest album, Jackson revealed that she hasn't reconciled any ill feeling between her and the pop star since he accidentally ripped her corset and revealed her breast.
'We haven't spoken. But I consider him a friend and I'm very loyal and friendship is very important to me,' the singer told Oprah.
'He has reached out to speak with me. Like I said, friendship is very important to me and certain things you just don't do to friends. And in my own time, I'll give him a call.'
Speaking to MTV recently, while promoting his own album, Timberlake was still dodging questions about the performance.
'If there was something I could have done in her defense that was more than I realised then, I would have,' he said.
'I probably got ten percent of the blame.'
Jackson's latest album, '20 Y.O' will be released in the coming weeks.
EastEnders tops soap awards
EastEnders won the best soap title for the tenth year running at the Inside Soap Awards.
It was one of just six awards that the soap took home last night, a number only matched by rival show Coronation Street.
EastEnders' Lacey Turner, who plays Stacey Slater, was named as best actress. Her on-screen love interest Bradley Branning, played by Charlie Clements, won the best newcomer title. The pair also won the best couple award.
The best actor award meanwhile went to Bradley Walsh for his portrayal of Corrie's love rat Danny Baldwin.
It's the second prize in a year for Walsh; in May he won the best dramatic performance title at the British Soap Awards.
Walsh's on-screen love life is reported to be as controversial in real life. It is rumoured that he has been having an affair with co-star Debra Stephenson, which Walsh denied last night as he turned up for the awards ceremony.
"Everything's fine. My wife even bought me the suit I'm wearing tonight," he told the Mirror.
Emmerdale picked up two awards, including best b***h for the recently-departed Sadie King, played by Patsy Kensit.
Best drama went to The Bill and Coronation Street's Helen Worth won the outstanding achievement award.
It was one of just six awards that the soap took home last night, a number only matched by rival show Coronation Street.
EastEnders' Lacey Turner, who plays Stacey Slater, was named as best actress. Her on-screen love interest Bradley Branning, played by Charlie Clements, won the best newcomer title. The pair also won the best couple award.
The best actor award meanwhile went to Bradley Walsh for his portrayal of Corrie's love rat Danny Baldwin.
It's the second prize in a year for Walsh; in May he won the best dramatic performance title at the British Soap Awards.
Walsh's on-screen love life is reported to be as controversial in real life. It is rumoured that he has been having an affair with co-star Debra Stephenson, which Walsh denied last night as he turned up for the awards ceremony.
"Everything's fine. My wife even bought me the suit I'm wearing tonight," he told the Mirror.
Emmerdale picked up two awards, including best b***h for the recently-departed Sadie King, played by Patsy Kensit.
Best drama went to The Bill and Coronation Street's Helen Worth won the outstanding achievement award.
Russell Crowe quits outback movie
Russell Crowe revealed yesterday that he had dropped plans to star in a new movie about the Australian outback because he didn't do "charity work" for major studios.
The New Zealand-born Australian actor was due to star with fellow Ozzie Nicole Kidman in the forthcoming Baz Luhrmann production, which has yet to be given a title.
Crowe has since been replaced by another Australian actor, Hugh Jackman, the Reuters news agency reports.
Explaining his decision to pull out of the film, Russell told reporters while promoting his new movie, A Good Year, in New York: "I just didn't want to work on that movie in the type of environment that was being created because of the needs of the budget.
"I do charity work, but I don't do charity work for major studios," he added.
Meanwhile, Crowe has also hit back at press reports that he's planning to play his late friend Steve Irwin in a film about the Crocodile Hunter's life.
"It's appalling to me and offends me very deeply," said Crowe, commenting yesterday on the reports in an interview with television show Extra.
"It's so awful that I have to deal with millions of people thinking I would dance on my friend's grave. Yes, I do think there should be a movie made about Steve but I'm not the sort of person who will be doing commerce on my friend's grave," he added.
The New Zealand-born Australian actor was due to star with fellow Ozzie Nicole Kidman in the forthcoming Baz Luhrmann production, which has yet to be given a title.
Crowe has since been replaced by another Australian actor, Hugh Jackman, the Reuters news agency reports.
Explaining his decision to pull out of the film, Russell told reporters while promoting his new movie, A Good Year, in New York: "I just didn't want to work on that movie in the type of environment that was being created because of the needs of the budget.
"I do charity work, but I don't do charity work for major studios," he added.
Meanwhile, Crowe has also hit back at press reports that he's planning to play his late friend Steve Irwin in a film about the Crocodile Hunter's life.
"It's appalling to me and offends me very deeply," said Crowe, commenting yesterday on the reports in an interview with television show Extra.
"It's so awful that I have to deal with millions of people thinking I would dance on my friend's grave. Yes, I do think there should be a movie made about Steve but I'm not the sort of person who will be doing commerce on my friend's grave," he added.
Stage door lures back Law
Hollywood heartthrob Jude Law could be giving Tinseltown a break to focus more on stage acting.
The 'Alfie' star has explained he is more of a theatre actor at heart, despite having huge success at the box office with hits such as 'Enemy at the Gate' and 'Closer'.
Now Law is looking for the right play to tickle his fancy so he can go back to treading the boards, claiming performing on stage gives you 'a different taste in your mouth from film'.
He said: 'I grew up considering myself a theatre actor. It was what I aspired to be as a kid, where I started out.
'Film came into my life after, through my theatre work, so I'm always looking for the right play and the right time. I hope that time might be soon.'
Law admitted the lure of Hollywood pay-packets was too much to resist, but that he is still hoping to return to his roots.
'I wanted to come back and act, but for personal and economic reasons I had to forgo the opportunity,' he added.
Young Vic artistic director David Lan has confirmed he has held talks with Law over a possible role in a production of 'Hamlet', which would be the London-born actor's first stage role since the West End production of 'Doctor Faustus' in 2002.
The 'Alfie' star has explained he is more of a theatre actor at heart, despite having huge success at the box office with hits such as 'Enemy at the Gate' and 'Closer'.
Now Law is looking for the right play to tickle his fancy so he can go back to treading the boards, claiming performing on stage gives you 'a different taste in your mouth from film'.
He said: 'I grew up considering myself a theatre actor. It was what I aspired to be as a kid, where I started out.
'Film came into my life after, through my theatre work, so I'm always looking for the right play and the right time. I hope that time might be soon.'
Law admitted the lure of Hollywood pay-packets was too much to resist, but that he is still hoping to return to his roots.
'I wanted to come back and act, but for personal and economic reasons I had to forgo the opportunity,' he added.
Young Vic artistic director David Lan has confirmed he has held talks with Law over a possible role in a production of 'Hamlet', which would be the London-born actor's first stage role since the West End production of 'Doctor Faustus' in 2002.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Is Lindsay Single Again?
We were a little bit suspicious when we heard rumours that Lindsay Lohan and her fella Harry Morton had split.
All the pics we keep seeing of the pair canoodling and hanging out don't seem to suggest a rift...
And now Lindsay's spokesperson has stepped in to confirm that the starlet and the Hard Rock Cafe heir are still together.
They insist that the rumours are simply "not true".
The speculation started after a source told People magazine that Linds and Harry - who have been dating since July 2005 - had parted ways after a dinner together at Hollywood's Chateau Marmont hotel.
It was claimed that Harry had finished the relationship because Lindsay was "too much drama".
Don't fret Linds, we never would have believed that anyway...
We'll keep an eye on any developments.
All the pics we keep seeing of the pair canoodling and hanging out don't seem to suggest a rift...
And now Lindsay's spokesperson has stepped in to confirm that the starlet and the Hard Rock Cafe heir are still together.
They insist that the rumours are simply "not true".
The speculation started after a source told People magazine that Linds and Harry - who have been dating since July 2005 - had parted ways after a dinner together at Hollywood's Chateau Marmont hotel.
It was claimed that Harry had finished the relationship because Lindsay was "too much drama".
Don't fret Linds, we never would have believed that anyway...
We'll keep an eye on any developments.
Kirstie Alley is a big mean jerk
Why is an E-List Hollywood star flipping off the paparazzi? To give credit to Kirstie, giving the paparazzi the finger is better than chasing after them with a knife and fork, which she would have done last year when she was a little more “portly.” You know what she also used to do last year: routinely close down buffets. I think she also killed JFK, if anonymous Internet message boards are to be trusted
Aaron Carter chickens out of marriage
In the surprise of the century, 18-year-old Aaron Carter has called off his engagement to his older brother's ex, 22-year-old Playboy model Kari Ann Peniche, just a week after proposing to her in Las Vegas. Aaron says:
"I got caught up in the moment and proposed. I then realized it was a hasty thing to do and I am not ready for marriage quite yet."
Not ready for marriage? I'm not even sure if he's ready for big boy underwear. I saw him at McDonalds the other day and I'm pretty sure he ordered a Happy Meal with - and I believe these were his exact words - "extra happy."
"I got caught up in the moment and proposed. I then realized it was a hasty thing to do and I am not ready for marriage quite yet."
Not ready for marriage? I'm not even sure if he's ready for big boy underwear. I saw him at McDonalds the other day and I'm pretty sure he ordered a Happy Meal with - and I believe these were his exact words - "extra happy."
Scissor Sisters score double chart success
US band the Scissor Sisters have made the cut in the UK music charts this week after topping both the official album and singles charts.
The New York group were celebrating a third week at number one in the Top 40 with their single, I Don't Feel Like Dancin' yesterday, while their latest album Ta-Dah also went straight to number one, providing a memorable chart double.
It follows from the success of the Scissor Sisters' self-titled debut album, which became the best selling album in the UK in 2004 and which has sold a reported 2.5 million copies to date.
But while the flamboyant disco-influenced band are enjoying plenty of success this side of the Atlantic, it seems that popularity in the United States music market continues to evade the Scissor Sisters.
"American music fans are just as musically open-minded as their British counterparts, but the powers that be in the US may not be as open-minded, which, to a degree, will hold us back," Scissor Sisters front man Jake Shears told Billboard magazine recently.
"Tons of Americans would love our music, but they don't know we exist," he added.
Meanwhile, other US acts are continuing to dominate the UK music charts.
The Killers jumped three places to number two in the singles chart yesterday with their latest offering, When You Were Young, while Justin Timberlake's new song Sexyback dropped to third place from second, as his album Futuresex/Lovesounds also fell to number three after enjoying the top spot in the album chart last week.
Canadian singer Nelly Furtado and rapper Timbaland remained at number four in the singles chart with their song, Promiscuous, while the first solo single from Fergie, member of the US band Black Eyed Peas, was at five, after falling two places.
The New York group were celebrating a third week at number one in the Top 40 with their single, I Don't Feel Like Dancin' yesterday, while their latest album Ta-Dah also went straight to number one, providing a memorable chart double.
It follows from the success of the Scissor Sisters' self-titled debut album, which became the best selling album in the UK in 2004 and which has sold a reported 2.5 million copies to date.
But while the flamboyant disco-influenced band are enjoying plenty of success this side of the Atlantic, it seems that popularity in the United States music market continues to evade the Scissor Sisters.
"American music fans are just as musically open-minded as their British counterparts, but the powers that be in the US may not be as open-minded, which, to a degree, will hold us back," Scissor Sisters front man Jake Shears told Billboard magazine recently.
"Tons of Americans would love our music, but they don't know we exist," he added.
Meanwhile, other US acts are continuing to dominate the UK music charts.
The Killers jumped three places to number two in the singles chart yesterday with their latest offering, When You Were Young, while Justin Timberlake's new song Sexyback dropped to third place from second, as his album Futuresex/Lovesounds also fell to number three after enjoying the top spot in the album chart last week.
Canadian singer Nelly Furtado and rapper Timbaland remained at number four in the singles chart with their song, Promiscuous, while the first solo single from Fergie, member of the US band Black Eyed Peas, was at five, after falling two places.
Hammond making "excellent progress"
Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond is "making excellent" progress and has now been moved onto a general hospital ward after his high-speed crash during filming for the show.
The TV host's wife, Mindy, said her family had been overwhelmed by the messages of support they had received since her husband's accident and urged fans to donate money to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance service, joking that Mr Hammond was worried that his fellow Top Gear presenters Jeremy Clarkson and James May would "start taking the mickey" if he received any more flowers.
"Richard is now beginning to worry that Jeremy and James will start taking the mickey, so it would be great if - instead of flowers - people could make a donation to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance," said Mrs Hammond.
"The service is entirely funded by charitable donations and there's little doubt in my mind that without it, Richard would not be making the excellent progress he is," she added.
Mr Hammond, 36, was airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary on Wednesday after the jet-powered Vampire dragster he was driving, at speeds of up to 300mph, veered off the runway at Elvington airfield, near York, and crashed on to the grass.
Friends and well-wishers of Mr Hammond have already raised more than £130,000 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance since the popular TV presenter's accident.
The latest news of the Top Gear presenter's recovery comes after his fellow presenter, Jeremy Clarkson, revealed yesterday that the injured star had taken his first steps since the crash.
Mr Clarkson said his colleague had got to his feet and walked "shakily" to the toilet at Leeds General Infirmary, where doctors had indicated that Mr Hammond had suffered a "significant brain injury".
Medical staff at the hospital say that the presenter remains in a stable condition.
Meanwhile, the BBC has revealed that the start date for the new series of Top Gear has been postponed from its scheduled return on October 8th, with the channel stressing that it is "still too early" to say when the motoring show will appear again on our screens.
"The priority for now must be ensuring Richard makes a full recovery, but we would not think of finalising plans for the next series without discussing it with everyone involved," said a BBC spokesman.
"When it is suitable, the team will do this and we will announce a new transmission date."
The TV host's wife, Mindy, said her family had been overwhelmed by the messages of support they had received since her husband's accident and urged fans to donate money to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance service, joking that Mr Hammond was worried that his fellow Top Gear presenters Jeremy Clarkson and James May would "start taking the mickey" if he received any more flowers.
"Richard is now beginning to worry that Jeremy and James will start taking the mickey, so it would be great if - instead of flowers - people could make a donation to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance," said Mrs Hammond.
"The service is entirely funded by charitable donations and there's little doubt in my mind that without it, Richard would not be making the excellent progress he is," she added.
Mr Hammond, 36, was airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary on Wednesday after the jet-powered Vampire dragster he was driving, at speeds of up to 300mph, veered off the runway at Elvington airfield, near York, and crashed on to the grass.
Friends and well-wishers of Mr Hammond have already raised more than £130,000 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance since the popular TV presenter's accident.
The latest news of the Top Gear presenter's recovery comes after his fellow presenter, Jeremy Clarkson, revealed yesterday that the injured star had taken his first steps since the crash.
Mr Clarkson said his colleague had got to his feet and walked "shakily" to the toilet at Leeds General Infirmary, where doctors had indicated that Mr Hammond had suffered a "significant brain injury".
Medical staff at the hospital say that the presenter remains in a stable condition.
Meanwhile, the BBC has revealed that the start date for the new series of Top Gear has been postponed from its scheduled return on October 8th, with the channel stressing that it is "still too early" to say when the motoring show will appear again on our screens.
"The priority for now must be ensuring Richard makes a full recovery, but we would not think of finalising plans for the next series without discussing it with everyone involved," said a BBC spokesman.
"When it is suitable, the team will do this and we will announce a new transmission date."
Mel Gibson steps out in public
Mel Gibson has stepped out in public again for the first time since his high-profile arrest for drink-driving in July.
The actor was promoting his new film 'Apocalypto' at Fantastic Fest, a low-key festival in Austin, Texas, that celebrates new fantasy, horror and science fiction films, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
It is believed that Mel, who is co-writer and director of the action-adventure movie, presented a preview of the film at the event and addressed an audience at the festival.
During a question-and-answer session, Mel reportedly criticised the war in Iraq.
Hollywood Reporter claims the star drew parallels between his film, which has a central theme of the decline of civilisation against the backdrop of the Mayan empire.
He said: 'The precursors to a civilisation that's going under are the same, time and time again.'
Mel added: 'What's human sacrifice, if not sending guys off to Iraq for no reason?'
The film is set for its American premiere this December.
The actor was promoting his new film 'Apocalypto' at Fantastic Fest, a low-key festival in Austin, Texas, that celebrates new fantasy, horror and science fiction films, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
It is believed that Mel, who is co-writer and director of the action-adventure movie, presented a preview of the film at the event and addressed an audience at the festival.
During a question-and-answer session, Mel reportedly criticised the war in Iraq.
Hollywood Reporter claims the star drew parallels between his film, which has a central theme of the decline of civilisation against the backdrop of the Mayan empire.
He said: 'The precursors to a civilisation that's going under are the same, time and time again.'
Mel added: 'What's human sacrifice, if not sending guys off to Iraq for no reason?'
The film is set for its American premiere this December.
Piper 'plotted suicide'
Billie Piper has revealed that she considered committing suicide as a young starlet during her rise to fame.
The 'Dr Who' star told the Mail on Sunday that she hit a low point in her teens as a young pop princess.
Now 24, Billie revealed that as a 16-year-old she was depressed and alone in Los Angeles, where she was on tour, when she came close to ending it all.
The singer-turned-actress gave a preview of her autobiography entitled 'Growing Pains', which is due to be released soon.
The book is expected to reveal all about Billie's singing career in the 1990s, as well as her transition into acting and details about her personal life, including her eating disorder, marriage to Chris Evans and her troubled relationship with her parents.
'I didn't feel qualified or ready to talk about it until I was really, really well, this year,' she said of telling all about her eating disorder in her memoirs.
The 'Dr Who' star told the Mail on Sunday that she hit a low point in her teens as a young pop princess.
Now 24, Billie revealed that as a 16-year-old she was depressed and alone in Los Angeles, where she was on tour, when she came close to ending it all.
The singer-turned-actress gave a preview of her autobiography entitled 'Growing Pains', which is due to be released soon.
The book is expected to reveal all about Billie's singing career in the 1990s, as well as her transition into acting and details about her personal life, including her eating disorder, marriage to Chris Evans and her troubled relationship with her parents.
'I didn't feel qualified or ready to talk about it until I was really, really well, this year,' she said of telling all about her eating disorder in her memoirs.
'Young Guns' star arrested in LA
Lou Diamond Phillips has been arrested in Los Angeles on a charge of domestic battering.
If convicted, the 'Young Guns' and 'La Bamba' star faces a one-year jail sentence as well as a $2,000 fine.
He is accused of injuring his girlfriend on August 11th, when the couple argued and he allegedly dragged her around the house.
According to court documents, this resulted in scrapes on her knees, before she phoned police from the bathroom, where she locked herself in.
Phillips was arrested for the incident before being released on bail.
The 44-year-old's arraignment is due to take place on October 18th.
If convicted, the 'Young Guns' and 'La Bamba' star faces a one-year jail sentence as well as a $2,000 fine.
He is accused of injuring his girlfriend on August 11th, when the couple argued and he allegedly dragged her around the house.
According to court documents, this resulted in scrapes on her knees, before she phoned police from the bathroom, where she locked herself in.
Phillips was arrested for the incident before being released on bail.
The 44-year-old's arraignment is due to take place on October 18th.
U2 reopen Louisiana Superdome
U2 and Green Day will perform live together this evening to mark the opening of the Louisiana Superdome.
The two bands will sing before the American football game between the New Orleans Saints and the Atlanta Falcons, the first to take place since Hurricane Katrina ravaged the town and the stadium over a year ago.
The storm, the sixth-strongest Atlantic hurricane ever recorded, resulted in the deaths of over 1,800 people and $81.2 billion (£43.7 billion) worth of damage in August last year.
As well as being badly damaged by Katrina, the stadium became a shelter for tens of thousands of displaced people, resulting in human waste and rubbish further wrecking the interior.
Since then it has undergone a vast programme of improvement costing $185 million (£97 million), with the new-look stadium now housing larger scoreboards, remodelled stands and a repaired roof.
U2's guitarist The Edge, who has been raising funds through his charity Music Rising for musicians on the Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina, said ahead of the performance: "My visits to New Orleans gave me a firsthand look at the devastation which tragically destroyed the lives of thousands.
"The area's rich and spirited culture must continue to be restored. Providing musical instruments through Music Rising will not only help the professional musicians but all the churches and schools in need through phase two of the programme."
U2 and Green Day will perform a cover of The Skids track The Saints Are Coming, a download of which will raise funds for Music Rising.
Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong said: "One year later, people continue to be devastated by Katrina's effects.
"We hope that by collaborating with U2, we'll remind the public that people of the Gulf Coast are still suffering and still need help to rebuild their lives."
The two bands will sing before the American football game between the New Orleans Saints and the Atlanta Falcons, the first to take place since Hurricane Katrina ravaged the town and the stadium over a year ago.
The storm, the sixth-strongest Atlantic hurricane ever recorded, resulted in the deaths of over 1,800 people and $81.2 billion (£43.7 billion) worth of damage in August last year.
As well as being badly damaged by Katrina, the stadium became a shelter for tens of thousands of displaced people, resulting in human waste and rubbish further wrecking the interior.
Since then it has undergone a vast programme of improvement costing $185 million (£97 million), with the new-look stadium now housing larger scoreboards, remodelled stands and a repaired roof.
U2's guitarist The Edge, who has been raising funds through his charity Music Rising for musicians on the Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina, said ahead of the performance: "My visits to New Orleans gave me a firsthand look at the devastation which tragically destroyed the lives of thousands.
"The area's rich and spirited culture must continue to be restored. Providing musical instruments through Music Rising will not only help the professional musicians but all the churches and schools in need through phase two of the programme."
U2 and Green Day will perform a cover of The Skids track The Saints Are Coming, a download of which will raise funds for Music Rising.
Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong said: "One year later, people continue to be devastated by Katrina's effects.
"We hope that by collaborating with U2, we'll remind the public that people of the Gulf Coast are still suffering and still need help to rebuild their lives."
Sean Connery is 'best-ever Bond'
Sir Sean Connery has won the title of best-ever James Bond in a magazine poll.
Connery appeared in a total of seven Bond films, starting with Dr No in 1962 and concluding with Never say Never Again in 1983, the unofficial remake of the 1965 film Thunderball.
Pierce Brosnan came second in the poll, followed by Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton and George Lazenby.
Readers of sci-fi and movie magazine SFX also judged Connery's 1964 hit Goldfinger as the best film in the Bond series.
SFX editor Dave Bradley said: "Connery is the still the ultimate 007. New Bond Daniel Craig has very tough acts to follow."
The survey was conducted just months before the release of the latest Bond film - Casino Royale, the 21st in the series, is due to be shown on cinema screens on November 17th.
Since the announcement that Craig was to play Bond he has received a dubious welcome. But Sir Sean himself has lent his support to the producers' choice, describing him as a "very, very good actor".
Craig is joined in Casino Royale by Eva Green, who will play the enticing Bond girl Vesper Lynd.
Connery appeared in a total of seven Bond films, starting with Dr No in 1962 and concluding with Never say Never Again in 1983, the unofficial remake of the 1965 film Thunderball.
Pierce Brosnan came second in the poll, followed by Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton and George Lazenby.
Readers of sci-fi and movie magazine SFX also judged Connery's 1964 hit Goldfinger as the best film in the Bond series.
SFX editor Dave Bradley said: "Connery is the still the ultimate 007. New Bond Daniel Craig has very tough acts to follow."
The survey was conducted just months before the release of the latest Bond film - Casino Royale, the 21st in the series, is due to be shown on cinema screens on November 17th.
Since the announcement that Craig was to play Bond he has received a dubious welcome. But Sir Sean himself has lent his support to the producers' choice, describing him as a "very, very good actor".
Craig is joined in Casino Royale by Eva Green, who will play the enticing Bond girl Vesper Lynd.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Crowe Wants To Star In Irwin Biopic.
Crowe Wants To Star In Irwin Biopic.... Hollywood star Russell Crowe wants to play late naturalist Steve Irwin in a movie about his life.
Irwin was killed earlier this month (04Sep06) when a stingray barb stabbed him in the heart while he filmed off the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
Fellow Australian Crowe was close to the Crocodile Hunter star and paid tribute to his friend in a video message at a public memorial service this week (20Sep06).
Sources say Crowe has already contacted Universal Studios with plans for an Irwin biopic.
An insider says, "It's not about money for Russell - it's about honouring his mate.
"Steve once told Russell that he wanted him to play him in a movie version of his life".
Irwin was killed earlier this month (04Sep06) when a stingray barb stabbed him in the heart while he filmed off the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
Fellow Australian Crowe was close to the Crocodile Hunter star and paid tribute to his friend in a video message at a public memorial service this week (20Sep06).
Sources say Crowe has already contacted Universal Studios with plans for an Irwin biopic.
An insider says, "It's not about money for Russell - it's about honouring his mate.
"Steve once told Russell that he wanted him to play him in a movie version of his life".
Police Investigate Bbc Over Hammond Crash.
Police Investigate Bbc Over Hammond Crash.... The Bbc is under investigation following TV presenter Richard Hammond's dragster jet car crash on Wednesday (20Sep06).
Hammond was filming Bbc car show Top Gear when the accident happened at a former Royal Air Force airfield near York, England.
He has suffered a "significant brain injury" after crashing at nearly 300 miles (483 kilometres) per hour.
Police and safety officials are now trying to establish whether Hammond received any training before he drove the high-speed vehicle. They also want to find out how much planning there was before Hammond's ill-fated attempt to break the British land speed record
Hammond was filming Bbc car show Top Gear when the accident happened at a former Royal Air Force airfield near York, England.
He has suffered a "significant brain injury" after crashing at nearly 300 miles (483 kilometres) per hour.
Police and safety officials are now trying to establish whether Hammond received any training before he drove the high-speed vehicle. They also want to find out how much planning there was before Hammond's ill-fated attempt to break the British land speed record
Jessica Simpson's Daisy chain
Jessica Simpson is to open her own chain of barbeque restaurants called 'Daisy Duke's'.
The 'Dukes of Hazzard' star will provide backing for the restaurants - which will feature scantily-clad waitresses in tiny hot pants - named after her most famous screen character from the film remake of the hit TV show.
The business plan was thought up by Jessica's father and manager, Joe Simpson, 48.
A source told America's Life and Style Weekly magazine: "Joe's going to make a lot of money from this."
The flagship eatery will open in Las Vegas' Caesar's Palace next year, and Jessica will reportedly commit to make at least five appearances at the venue each year.
A spokesman for the 26-year-old star, whose divorce from Nick Lachey was finalised this year, has so far refused to confirm the restaurant plans.
The 'Dukes of Hazzard' star will provide backing for the restaurants - which will feature scantily-clad waitresses in tiny hot pants - named after her most famous screen character from the film remake of the hit TV show.
The business plan was thought up by Jessica's father and manager, Joe Simpson, 48.
A source told America's Life and Style Weekly magazine: "Joe's going to make a lot of money from this."
The flagship eatery will open in Las Vegas' Caesar's Palace next year, and Jessica will reportedly commit to make at least five appearances at the venue each year.
A spokesman for the 26-year-old star, whose divorce from Nick Lachey was finalised this year, has so far refused to confirm the restaurant plans.
Nicole talks about Liam's Man-Bag
According to the latest tabloids, Nicole Appleton had people in fits of giggles yesterday after she disclosed that she had purchased her partner Liam Gallagher a "man-bag" as a birthday gift.
The member of popular girl band All Saints apparently talked about her present for Liam, 34, on Chris Moyles’ Radio 1 show.
Chris started laughing and is quoted in the Sun newspaper as saying on air: “It’ll be handy to store all his products in.”
Concerned she could embarrass the frontman of Oasis, Nicole telephoned her lover, then told the chuckling radio presenter:“He said if you slag off his man-bag he’ll put you in it.”
The member of popular girl band All Saints apparently talked about her present for Liam, 34, on Chris Moyles’ Radio 1 show.
Chris started laughing and is quoted in the Sun newspaper as saying on air: “It’ll be handy to store all his products in.”
Concerned she could embarrass the frontman of Oasis, Nicole telephoned her lover, then told the chuckling radio presenter:“He said if you slag off his man-bag he’ll put you in it.”
Roland Mouret for GAP
Roland Mouret is the latest fashion designer to join the RED initiative started by Bono and Bobby Shriver to fight Aids and HIV in Africa. Mouret's collaboration with GAP will see him make 10 styles of dress, three of which will benefit RED and all of which will cost between Ł45 and Ł78 and be available from 7 November. Mouret's famous Galaxy dress was worn by a bevy of Hollywood beauties, including Scarlett Johannsson, Rachel Weisz and Naomi Watts. With Viktor & Rolf polishing up their new designs for H&M ready for launch in November and Kate Moss designing for TopShop, GAP must be glad to have signed up a star.
Armani awards bursary to Central Saint Martins
The Armani RED show was a star-studded affair last night, with Leonardo DiCaprio, Bono, 50 Cent, Razorlight, Elle Macpherson and Kim Cattrall providing galloons of glitz and Hollywood glamour. Not only was the RED collection (which is part of Bono's initative to help fights AIDS in Africa) a huge success, but the do-gooder designer took the opportunity to announce that he will support up-and-coming talent at top British Central Saint Martins College. The bursary will have a value of Ł32,000 per year for five years for MA students, and he's donating a similar sum to Milan's Istituto Marangoni. We reckon he's doing Bono proud...
Kate for TopShop
TopShop confirmed yesterday that Kate Moss will be designing a range for them. The collection will hit all stores and the website next spring - we suggest you start queuing now...London Fashion Week kicked off on a sunny Sunday afternoon in Holland Park with the TopShop spring/summer show. As ever, the Unique collection was full of gems like zip-up cotton pinafores, mini-short playsuits, high-waisted wide-leg trousers and cream knitted ladylike day coats. But the real star of the show was most certainly Kate Moss, who arrived amid a flurry of flashbulbs with best friend Davina Taylor and sat at Philip Green's side throughout the show. She looked effortless and cool, as usual, in lightweight denim high-waisted vintage jeans, heels and a simple grey marl knit top.
Embrace deny break-up
Despite their earlier comments to suggest otherwise, Embrace have said that they are not going to split up.Their singer Danny McNamara told BBC 6 Music yesterday that the group would split following the release of their next album."I think our next album will be our last ever album," he said. "If we get as far as making it and finishing it. I want it to be a masterpiece and I want to take as long as it takes." He added: "We've worked solidly since I was 17 - that's half my life - and I've done nothing except look at the bigger picture. I haven't stopped to smell the flowers along the way at all."However, following outcries from numerous upset fans, the singer was forced to explain his comments in an interview with BBC Radio 1's Chris Moyles this morning.McNamara told Moyles that the band are definitely not splitting up and that "we're going to make the next album as if it's our last but we always do that anyway".He added: "That's kind of how we go into it because you've got to be wholehearted about these things you know?"Embrace are currently on tour in the UK until October 23rd.
Boney M musical kicks off in London
Daddy Cool, a new stage show based on the music of Boney M, has premiered in London.Known for their hits in the late 1970s and 1980s, Boney M were a European disco group who churned out catchy tunes such as Daddy Cool and Rivers of Babylon.Now their hits have been transformed for the stage, with producers mixing the lyrics with the plot of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet against the backdrop of multicultural London.Former EastEnders actress Michelle Collins plays an East End club owner whose daughter Rose falls in love with a black musician from a rival family, played by So Solid Crew's Harvey.Also appearing in the musical is British singer Javine, who is no stranger to the stage after spending years playing Nala in the stage version of The Lion King.The musical includes the Boney M hits Rivers Of Babylon, Brown Girl In The Ring, Ma Baker, Girl You Know It's True, Where Do You Go, One Way Ticket and Mary's Boychild.Daddy Cool is open now at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London.
Robin Williams quits rehab
Robin Williams has checked himself out of rehab in an attempt to win his wife back.Marsha is said to have told him that unless he sorted out his alcohol problems then she would leave him, leading to his publicist to announce in July that Williams had taken "proactive measures for his own well-being and the well-being of his family".Following his 60-day stint at Oregon's Hazelden Springbrook clinic, the National Enquirer reports that Williams has moved in with a "sober companion" as part of his next stage in adjusting to life out of the clinic.According to the Daily Mail, he will be watched over 24 hours a day for the next three months to make sure that he doesn't fall off the wagon again.A friend of the Mrs Doubtfire actor is reported to have told the National Enquirer: "Instead of going home to his wife and two teenage children in Napa Valley, he's moved to Los Angeles, where he's renting an apartment and living with a 'sober companion'."Williams is currently starring as a radio talkshow host in The Night Listener, a dark story which questions the line between reality and illusion.
Bono attacks "slack" world leaders over Darfur
Bono has spoken out against the humanitarian crisis in Darfur.The U2 lead singer is a long-time supporter of charity efforts and in 2005 he played a fundamental role in organising Live 8, a series of worldwide concerts which sought to raise the profile of the world's poverty problems.Speaking to reporters today, he said that that the ongoing violence in the Darfur region in Sudan was "preposterous" and that "governments need to take up [their] slack" in dealing with the situation.Although he said that "the activism I do is because I can and I should", he added: "I would always rather be with the band you know you wake up in the morning with a melody in your head it is a thrill like no other in the world to be in this band".He joked that if world leaders did more to tackle problems such as Darfur, "then pop stars and sports stars can stay in bed like they'd like to".George Clooney, who recently made a heartfelt plea to the United Nations to find a solution for Darfur, was described by Bono as being "very informed and smart".
Anastacia to marry bodyguard
Anastacia is planning on marrying her minder sometime next year, the Sun reports, after the old romantic told her that he wanted to "protect her forever".A source told the paper about the 34-year-old singer's romance with Brit Wayne Newton: "She fell for him hook, line and sinker. It's very sexy to have someone looking after you."Apparently the 38-year-old bodyguard walked out on his girlfriend, with whom he has two kids, earlier this year.
Lindsay Lohan and Harry Morton break up
Multiple sources are claiming Harry Morton broke up with Lindsay Lohan yesterday at Chateau Marmont after they had dinner on the courtyard patio.
"She was too much drama," says the source. "Lindsay did cut down on the partying, but with her it's all relative. Harry is sober. It wasn't the partying that broke them up. She's young and a little bit immature. Harry's more low-key and not into the same stuff she's into." Indeed, Lohan, 20, was spotted at Hollywood's Chateau Marmont on Thursday, running onto the patio where four of her friends were sitting - and weeping, a wad of tissues on one hand, her cell phone in the other. After the Chateau, Lohan went to Hyde Lounge, where she arrived around 12:30 a.m. and stayed until the hot spot closed at 2 a.m. She mingled with friends and didn't appear to be distraught: "She was having a blast," says one patron, "even with a broken hand."
It's ironic to think the owner of a restaurant called the Pink Taco would end a relationship because it wasn't mature enough for him. That'd be like Mr. T breaking up with a woman because she had on too much gold jewelry and referred to herself in the third person. And pitied fools. And was constantly telling kids to stay in school and drink their milk.
"She was too much drama," says the source. "Lindsay did cut down on the partying, but with her it's all relative. Harry is sober. It wasn't the partying that broke them up. She's young and a little bit immature. Harry's more low-key and not into the same stuff she's into." Indeed, Lohan, 20, was spotted at Hollywood's Chateau Marmont on Thursday, running onto the patio where four of her friends were sitting - and weeping, a wad of tissues on one hand, her cell phone in the other. After the Chateau, Lohan went to Hyde Lounge, where she arrived around 12:30 a.m. and stayed until the hot spot closed at 2 a.m. She mingled with friends and didn't appear to be distraught: "She was having a blast," says one patron, "even with a broken hand."
It's ironic to think the owner of a restaurant called the Pink Taco would end a relationship because it wasn't mature enough for him. That'd be like Mr. T breaking up with a woman because she had on too much gold jewelry and referred to herself in the third person. And pitied fools. And was constantly telling kids to stay in school and drink their milk.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Michael Jackson goes out of his mind Lucky Charms style
According to Ireland's Daily Mirror, Michael Jackson has been looking into buying an estate on the Emerald Isle, and is supposedly interested in opening up a - wait for it - leprechaun-inspired theme park.
"Michael is deadly serious about this idea," a source told Ireland's Daily Mirror. "He loves the whole idea of leprechauns and the magic and myths of Ireland. It would cost around 500 million Euros [about $635 million] to do. He's always wanted to open his own theme park and he thinks Ireland is the perfect place and it will all be built around the leprechaun theme." The cash-strapped singer reportedly is meeting with businessmen to raise money for the park. There are regular sightings of the reclusive singer in Ireland, and one newspaper there has set up a Wacko Watch Hotline for readers to phone in sightings.
Because if America won't accept your insane ideas why not just ship 'em over to Ireland? There they at least drink enough the idea might work. And here? Well here we just make gross generalizations about other cultures
"Michael is deadly serious about this idea," a source told Ireland's Daily Mirror. "He loves the whole idea of leprechauns and the magic and myths of Ireland. It would cost around 500 million Euros [about $635 million] to do. He's always wanted to open his own theme park and he thinks Ireland is the perfect place and it will all be built around the leprechaun theme." The cash-strapped singer reportedly is meeting with businessmen to raise money for the park. There are regular sightings of the reclusive singer in Ireland, and one newspaper there has set up a Wacko Watch Hotline for readers to phone in sightings.
Because if America won't accept your insane ideas why not just ship 'em over to Ireland? There they at least drink enough the idea might work. And here? Well here we just make gross generalizations about other cultures
Anna Nicole Smith's son gets death certificate
Anna Nicole Smith's lawyer announced yesterday that authorities issued a death certificate for her son Wednesday but left the cause of death as "pending chemical analysis." The certificate lets Anna Nicole bury her son, although pathologists won't receive the test results until two weeks.
"It is not unusual in instances where the cause of death cannot be determined to issue a death certificate," Gomez told The Associated Press. "This is not a matter of special treatment being given in this particular case."
I think it'd be ironic if the cause of death turned out to be a crocodile bite. Well, ironic or highly offensive. Maybe both. What am I, a psychic?
"It is not unusual in instances where the cause of death cannot be determined to issue a death certificate," Gomez told The Associated Press. "This is not a matter of special treatment being given in this particular case."
I think it'd be ironic if the cause of death turned out to be a crocodile bite. Well, ironic or highly offensive. Maybe both. What am I, a psychic?
Lou Diamond Phillips gets charged
Lou Diamond Phillips was charged yesterday with domestic battery and could face a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a $2,000 fine. The charges came from an incident last month in whihc he got into an argument with his girlfriend that escalated into a physical fight which ended up with the girlfriend "pushed and dragged across the house resulting in scrapes to both knees."
That picture probably isn't relevant at all but what better way to convey domestic abuse than a shot of the abuser trying to take a bite out of some woman's head? I guess I could've Photoshopped a bat into there. And not the baseball variety. I'm talking vampire, baby.
That picture probably isn't relevant at all but what better way to convey domestic abuse than a shot of the abuser trying to take a bite out of some woman's head? I guess I could've Photoshopped a bat into there. And not the baseball variety. I'm talking vampire, baby.
Lindsay Lohan is a dancing queen
Lindsay Lohan was spotted outside The Lot doing what can only be described as high karate kicks in between her cigarette puffs. If you watch the video you can even hear the paparazzi confused as to what they're seeing. "Is that her right there? Oh my God, that is Lindsay. She's got the cast on." Yeah, I wouldn't know what to make of it either. All this time we thought Lindsay was breaking her limbs slipping at parties and in showers when really she's just been keeping our streets safe from invisible monsters. She didn't name her legs 'Justice' and 'Fury' for nothing.
Hugh Grant is mean to the paparazzi
Hugh Grant yelled at and slapped a photographer yesterday after he took his picture in London. Photographer Bradley Case says he had just taken the picture when Hugh snapped back:
"You're nothing but a stupid t-. If you don't [bleep] off, I'm gonna cut your b- off." Case says he proceeded to "slap me hard across the face." Case is planning to press assault charges.
I love Mad Libs which is why I've taken the liberty of filling in those expletives with my own personal combination of nouns and verbs. So now without further ado I present for you the unedited Hugh Grant insult-o-matic: "You're nothing but a stupid [tomato]. If you don't [jump] off, I'm gonna cut your [boobies] off." Oh that Hugh. His words, they make no sense!
"You're nothing but a stupid t-. If you don't [bleep] off, I'm gonna cut your b- off." Case says he proceeded to "slap me hard across the face." Case is planning to press assault charges.
I love Mad Libs which is why I've taken the liberty of filling in those expletives with my own personal combination of nouns and verbs. So now without further ado I present for you the unedited Hugh Grant insult-o-matic: "You're nothing but a stupid [tomato]. If you don't [jump] off, I'm gonna cut your [boobies] off." Oh that Hugh. His words, they make no sense!
JT and Cam claim 'assault'
Humourless showbiz couple Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake have hit headlines this week for shock whingeing about the paparazzi.Joker-faced Cameron has filed a police report accusing a photographer of 'assault with a deadly weapon' after he allegedly drove his car at her.However, a statement on the website of the agency the snapper was working for, X17, claims that the newly brunette actress and window-cracking crooner Justin were attempting to block the vehicle as he drove away.JT and Cam settled a lawsuit in 2005 after they were accused by two photographers of assault and battery after an incident in Hollywood. They claimed their actions had been in self-defence.
Jessica Alba has 'most kissable lips'
Jessica Alba has been named as having the most kissable celebrity lips.The Sin City star saw off competition from other big-lipped beauties including Angelina Jolie and Eva Longoria.Representing the Brits in the top five are the curvaceous ladies Kelly Brook and Wayne Rooney's fiancee Coleen McLoughlin. urghLucky Dane Cook recently got to test out Alba's lips for himself during filming for their latest film, Good Luck Chuck, in what she claims was one of her most "wild" kissing sessions.The actress told TV show Extra last month: "We shot all our love scenes in one day and I actually lost a tooth. I chipped a tooth as well [and] I need to get that fixed."Isn't that disgusting? We were smashing our faces together and it just happened. It's not the slowest, most romantic of love scenes. Dane's a wild one."Meanwhile the poll, conducted by Colgate, found that Robbie Williams is the most desirable male celebrity that women would like to kiss.Brad Pitt, Prince Harry, Daniel Craig and Frank Lampard also made the top five most kissable lips, Sky reports.
This Life set for return
A one-off special of This Life will air on screens later this year to mark a decade passing since the show first hit TV screens.Following the lives of a group of 20-something lawyers working in London, This Life gained mass popularity with its handheld camera approach and rollercoaster emotional journeys.A total of 32 episodes were broadcast during 1996 and 1997, with a tearjerking finale shocking viewers.In the 90-minute feature, one of the characters has become a commercial success after writing a book based on their friendship and a TV company is keen to film the group's reunion.Series one and two will be broadcast before the feature so that This Life fans can thoroughly indulge in the comeback.Amy Jenkins, creator and chief writer of the series as well as the one-off special, This Life - Ten Years On, said: "It's ten years on and there have been big changes in the characters' lives. They're no longer in the waiting room of life - but out there on centre stage. The question is - do people really change?"
Madonna breaks tour records
Madonna's controversial Confessions tour is the biggest grossing tour ever by a female artist, the US magazine Billboard reports.Cher previously held the top spot with a total of $192.5 million generated from her Farewell tour extravaganza.But Madonna's latest tour is said to have narrowly pipped that with $193.7 million, although final figures have yet to come in.Her tour manager Arthur Fogel told Billboard: "Madonna has yet again delivered an incredible show for her fans, and the success of the tour is the ultimate statement."She absolutely belongs at number one."Her concerts have attracted 1.2 million people worldwide, in spite of condemnation of the singer from religious groups in a number of countries for arriving on stage suspended from a giant glittery silver cross with a crown of thorns on her head.The Vatican accused her of coming "close to blasphemy" for the sequence and in Germany prosecutors warned that she had breached the country's insulting religious beliefs law. In 2004 her Reinvention tour amassed $125 million while her Drowned tour grossed $75 million.
Lionel Blair stops pier jump
Veteran TV performer Lionel Blair and comedian Alan Carr helped stop a man from jumping off Blackpool pier on Wednesday night, it has emerged. The dancer and the comic had just finished filming a pilot episode of Carr's End-of-the-Pier show when the drama unfolded on the resort's north pier, according to reports. Blair, told the BBC that he and Carr, star of Channel 4's Friday Night Project, had rushed to the end of the pier after one of its staff members ran into the bar they were drinking in and revealed that a man was attempting to commit suicide. The 74-year-old entertainer said that the incident "really scared" him and that he and Carr had spent ten minutes trying to talk the man out of jumping from the pier, according to quotes reported in the Daily Mirror. "He just kept saying he wanted to end it all," said Blair. "Then someone said it was Lionel Blair from TV and he did a double take. The star said that he and Carr then grabbed the man's arms and pulled him back from the edge of the pier as police began to arrive at the scene. Carr, who said that he "thought someone was taking the mickey" when he first heard about the suicide bid, said he and Blair had found the man "hanging by his fingers".
Hospital says Hammond has brain injury
Doctors have confirmed that Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond has suffered a "significant brain injury" after being involved in a high-speed crash while filming the motoring show. Hammond, 36, was airlifted to the neurological unit at Leeds General Infirmary after the "dragster-style car" he was driving crashed at Elvington airfield, near York. A statement released by the hospital said: "Mr Hammond has suffered a significant brain injury. It's still giving cause for concern as it is still early after the injury. "However, we are reasonably optimistic that he will make a good recovery," it added. The presenter had been filming an attempt to break the British land speed record when the car, capable of reaching speeds of up to 300mph, crashed. Both the police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are currently investigating the events surrounding the crash, while the BBC itself has begun its own inquiry.
Kate and Owen 'coming out as a couple'
They still aren't holding hands in public, but Kate Hudson and Owen Wilson are not trying very hard to hide their blossoming romance. The actors, who met on the set of 'You, Me and Dupree', have been making headlines of 'are they or aren't they?' since Kate announced she was separating from her husband, Chris Robinson. The past weekend, the blonde co-stars spent time at the actress's Californian home, causing People magazine to declare them an official item. On Sunday night they enjoyed each other's company at the Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel, where they requested a shield be put around them for privacy. Kate had spent the past week in Hawaii, holidaying with her son Ryder, while Wilson stayed in a near by villa. After dinner with friends on September 7th, a source told People that it was obvious the two were together. 'The chemistry between, the electricity, was palpable,' the source said. 'They really looked into each other, despite the fact that they were among other people.'Stepping out together is a change from just a few weeks ago when Owen attended the 'Dupree' premier in London alone.
Madonna: Mock-crucifixion was 'misinterpreted'
Madonna has spoken out about criticisms of her mock-crucifixion sequence that forms part of her Confessions world tour.The Material Girl has been slammed by various religious groups who branded the performance as 'blasphemous'.However, Madge said there had been 'many misinterpretations' over the routine, which sees her, wearing a crown of thorns, suspended on a giant cross.Speaking yesterday after concluding the Japan leg of her world tour, the 48-year-old star insisted that her show was not 'anti-Christian, sacrilegious or blasphemous'. The queen of pop explained that it was hoped that this part of her show could highlight the plight of children who are dying in Africa.In Madonna's words, it was designed to be a 'plea to the audience to encourage mankind to help one another and to see the world as a unified whole'. And in a statement likely to infuriate some religious leaders Madge added: 'I believe in my heart that if Jesus were alive today he would be doing the same thing.'Despite rumours that American network NBC might cut the offending scene from its broadcast of her show in November, the Confessions tour continues to break records.It has become the biggest ever grossing tour by a female performer, Billboard magazine reports, explaining that income from ticket sales has surpassed the £101 million mark.
Katie Holmes going Posh?
The fabulous life of David and Victoria Beckham could be immortalised on film. Hollywood studio Paramount has optioned the story of David and Victoria Beckham, from the footballer's humble beginnings to captaining England in the World Cup, as well as Posh's rise to fame with The Spice Girls. Katie Holmes, Tom Cruise's fiancee and close friend of the glamour couple, is rumoured to be considering playing Victoria in the film. A Hollywood insider told the Daily Mail that Katie is 'perfect to play the young Posh and is working on her accent'.'Tom wouldn't play David however; the physical differences are too marked,' the source added.Actors so far mentioned to wear the Number 7 jersey are Paul Bettany and Jason Stratham. The Beckhams are believed to be happy that Katie and Tom are involved in the screen adaptation of their life, as the two glamorous couples are close friends.Tom and Paramount recently parted ways, ending one of the most lucrative deals in the industry. It was reported that his relationship with Katie had played a part in the studio's decision to cut ties.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Joe Simpson likes to photograph his daughters
Jessica and Ashlee Simpson's dad, Joe Simpson, has reportedly become a paparazzi to make some side cash and to influence how his daughters are portrayed in the media.
According to sources who've had recent dealings with him, Simpson has a tight working arrangement with WireImage, the mega-agency and wire service that rules the red-carpet at nearly every high-profile event in the western hemisphere. On several occasions, a camera-wielding Simpson has gone toe-to-toe with other snappers for shots of his own daughters, then approved only his own images for distribution through WireImage. At other times, he has provided the agency with exclusive (and even racy) shots of his daughters on family getaways or in other putatively private moments.
Needless to say, other photographers aren't happy. One recalled being invited to cover an event sponsored by Jessica's record label, Epic, only to find her shots blocked again and again by Joe and his Nikon. "I thought it was really odd that he was always in my way, since I was the one who was paid to be there shooting," she says. Though the freelancer did manage to get some clean shots, Joe's were the only ones WireImage deemed worthy of being distributed.
So basically Joe Simpson has gone from talking about his daughters' breasts to photographing them with a camera. If he keeps this up he'll be a shoe in to sweep at this year's World's Creepiest Dads Awards. He would've had it last year but then there was that one guy with the basement and the penguin, and really, he just deserved to win
According to sources who've had recent dealings with him, Simpson has a tight working arrangement with WireImage, the mega-agency and wire service that rules the red-carpet at nearly every high-profile event in the western hemisphere. On several occasions, a camera-wielding Simpson has gone toe-to-toe with other snappers for shots of his own daughters, then approved only his own images for distribution through WireImage. At other times, he has provided the agency with exclusive (and even racy) shots of his daughters on family getaways or in other putatively private moments.
Needless to say, other photographers aren't happy. One recalled being invited to cover an event sponsored by Jessica's record label, Epic, only to find her shots blocked again and again by Joe and his Nikon. "I thought it was really odd that he was always in my way, since I was the one who was paid to be there shooting," she says. Though the freelancer did manage to get some clean shots, Joe's were the only ones WireImage deemed worthy of being distributed.
So basically Joe Simpson has gone from talking about his daughters' breasts to photographing them with a camera. If he keeps this up he'll be a shoe in to sweep at this year's World's Creepiest Dads Awards. He would've had it last year but then there was that one guy with the basement and the penguin, and really, he just deserved to win
Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake almost murdered
Cameron Diaz has filed a police report against a photographer charging him with assault with a deadly weapon for allegedly trying to hit her and Justin Timberlake with his car. The LAPD says:
"On Sept. 19, just after midnight, Cameron Diaz filed a report with the LAPD. The incident happened on the 1600 block of King Road in Hollywood. Diaz and Justin Timberlake were leaving a friend's home when a photographer hiding in the bushes tried to take a photograph of her. They both then chased the photographer for a short distance. The photographer then got into his car and drove toward both (of) them, causing Diaz to jump out of the car's way. She felt the driver was trying to hit both of them, and so she filed the report. She's alleging assault with a deadly weapon, with a vehicle. No arrests were made. We currently have no suspects, and the investigation is ongoing."
X17, the photo agency the photographer was working for, has posted this statement on their website detailing their side of the story:
To the best of our knowledge, the pictures and video of Justin Timberlake and Cameron Diaz early morning on Tuesday, September 19 were taken on a public street where there was no "Private Drive" or "Private Property" sign visible. What the photographer knows he saw and what the pictures show, were at least two people verbally and physically assaulting him. Reports stating that Ms. Diaz has told police that the photographer tried to run her over with his car are completely false. The photographer was attempting to leave what he perceived to be a dangerous situation for him and when he tried to do so, Ms. Diaz and at least one other member of her entourage stood in front of his car in an attempt to entrap him. He drove around them at what he perceived to be a safe distance, as at least five members of Ms. Diaz and Mr. Timberlake's group were yelling at him, making threats against him. The photographer is currently in the process of filing a complaint against Ms. Diaz and Mr. Timberlake.
The paparazzi cross the line all the time but they're usually pretty truthful when it comes to what happened and it almost always turns out the celebrity has twisted everything to make them look like the bad guys. I spotted Jessica Alba on the street once and pulled out my camera phone to snap a pic, but then she freaked out and called the cops, accusing me of assault with a deadly weapon. And sure, my pants were down at the time, but my penis ain't deadly, baby, it just looks like it is.
More shots of Justin and Cameron freaking out at the incident after the jump.
Continue Reading "Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake almost murdered"
"On Sept. 19, just after midnight, Cameron Diaz filed a report with the LAPD. The incident happened on the 1600 block of King Road in Hollywood. Diaz and Justin Timberlake were leaving a friend's home when a photographer hiding in the bushes tried to take a photograph of her. They both then chased the photographer for a short distance. The photographer then got into his car and drove toward both (of) them, causing Diaz to jump out of the car's way. She felt the driver was trying to hit both of them, and so she filed the report. She's alleging assault with a deadly weapon, with a vehicle. No arrests were made. We currently have no suspects, and the investigation is ongoing."
X17, the photo agency the photographer was working for, has posted this statement on their website detailing their side of the story:
To the best of our knowledge, the pictures and video of Justin Timberlake and Cameron Diaz early morning on Tuesday, September 19 were taken on a public street where there was no "Private Drive" or "Private Property" sign visible. What the photographer knows he saw and what the pictures show, were at least two people verbally and physically assaulting him. Reports stating that Ms. Diaz has told police that the photographer tried to run her over with his car are completely false. The photographer was attempting to leave what he perceived to be a dangerous situation for him and when he tried to do so, Ms. Diaz and at least one other member of her entourage stood in front of his car in an attempt to entrap him. He drove around them at what he perceived to be a safe distance, as at least five members of Ms. Diaz and Mr. Timberlake's group were yelling at him, making threats against him. The photographer is currently in the process of filing a complaint against Ms. Diaz and Mr. Timberlake.
The paparazzi cross the line all the time but they're usually pretty truthful when it comes to what happened and it almost always turns out the celebrity has twisted everything to make them look like the bad guys. I spotted Jessica Alba on the street once and pulled out my camera phone to snap a pic, but then she freaked out and called the cops, accusing me of assault with a deadly weapon. And sure, my pants were down at the time, but my penis ain't deadly, baby, it just looks like it is.
More shots of Justin and Cameron freaking out at the incident after the jump.
Continue Reading "Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake almost murdered"
Beyonce Knowles has multiple personality disorder
Beyonce Knowles tells Blender that she created an alter ego named Sasha who she turns into whenever she's feeling doubtful about herself. She says:
"When I feel uncomfortable about something, I tell myself, 'I'm Sasha, I'm a diva, I'm fierce, I can do it.' And then I can. Sometimes when Beyonce slips through, I'm like 'Hold up, come back!' Sasha protects me. It's a good way to keep sane."
Yes, creating imaginary characters in your head is definitely the best way to keep sane. I've got this dude named Clifford in my head. He tells me to cut people. Without him I don't know what I'd do. Maybe lead a normal life of not cutting people? Fuck that. Clifford knows what's up. He's got my back and that's why he's my bestest friend in all the world.
"When I feel uncomfortable about something, I tell myself, 'I'm Sasha, I'm a diva, I'm fierce, I can do it.' And then I can. Sometimes when Beyonce slips through, I'm like 'Hold up, come back!' Sasha protects me. It's a good way to keep sane."
Yes, creating imaginary characters in your head is definitely the best way to keep sane. I've got this dude named Clifford in my head. He tells me to cut people. Without him I don't know what I'd do. Maybe lead a normal life of not cutting people? Fuck that. Clifford knows what's up. He's got my back and that's why he's my bestest friend in all the world.
Petra Nemcova is naturally fat
Paris Hilton was questioned by the LAPD during the investigation into the home-invasion robbery of Girls Gone Wild producer Joe Francis and in the audio tape admits she's not very bright:
"Like I really ... I don't remember. I'm not like that smart," Hilton said in police audio tapes set to air on "Dateline NBC" on Saturday night. LAPD Detective Steve Koman and Deputy DA Hoon Chun were asking Hilton to remember what she told Francis at a party shortly after the "Girls" mastermind was victimized on Jan. 24, 2004. Francis passed on Paris' information to cops, who eventually busted Darnell Riley. But when investigators pressed Hilton to recall her talk with Francis, she didn't remember much, The Post's David K. Li reports. "I like forget stuff all the time," she said.
Hilton also told the cops about "private tapes" that were stolen from her home and that a mysterious caller wanted money for them.
"They ... wanted money. They were tryin' to sell it to like a newspaper or something," said Hilton, who balked at paying - and chalked it up to advice from dear old Dad. "So if you pay somebody, then you're gonna be paying for the rest of your life," Hilton said. "My dad always taught me. They'll keep the tape anyway."
There's too much going on here. Joe Francis admitting he's gay and almost getting sodomized. Paris Hilton admitting she's mentally handicapped. Maybe if I throw in these pictures of her pumping gas your brain will explode from an overdose of pleasure. And then, my friends, my mission in life will be complete. For I am Exploderhead: the exploder of heads.
"Like I really ... I don't remember. I'm not like that smart," Hilton said in police audio tapes set to air on "Dateline NBC" on Saturday night. LAPD Detective Steve Koman and Deputy DA Hoon Chun were asking Hilton to remember what she told Francis at a party shortly after the "Girls" mastermind was victimized on Jan. 24, 2004. Francis passed on Paris' information to cops, who eventually busted Darnell Riley. But when investigators pressed Hilton to recall her talk with Francis, she didn't remember much, The Post's David K. Li reports. "I like forget stuff all the time," she said.
Hilton also told the cops about "private tapes" that were stolen from her home and that a mysterious caller wanted money for them.
"They ... wanted money. They were tryin' to sell it to like a newspaper or something," said Hilton, who balked at paying - and chalked it up to advice from dear old Dad. "So if you pay somebody, then you're gonna be paying for the rest of your life," Hilton said. "My dad always taught me. They'll keep the tape anyway."
There's too much going on here. Joe Francis admitting he's gay and almost getting sodomized. Paris Hilton admitting she's mentally handicapped. Maybe if I throw in these pictures of her pumping gas your brain will explode from an overdose of pleasure. And then, my friends, my mission in life will be complete. For I am Exploderhead: the exploder of heads.
Kidman never dissed Jolie's charity work
A Scottish tabloid has apologized to Nicole Kidman for publishing false quotes from the Moulin Rouge actress criticizing Angelina Jolie's charity work. "In an article published on Friday, Sept. 8, we attributed comments to Nicole Kidman in relation to Angelina Jolie. We accept that Ms. Kidman did not make these comments to us and we apologize for any upset," the paper said in a statement. Kidman was quoted as having accused Jolie of receiving too much attention for her charity work. A rep for Kidman released a statement saying she has "a tremendous admiration from Ms. Jolie and her tireless, worldwide charitable work."
Producers want Brad Pitt for Mission: Impossible 4
Brad Pitt has reportedly been tapped to replace Tom Cruise in the next installment of the Mission: Impossible series. Paramount Pictures, who recently ended their business relationship with Cruise, is prepared to do whatever it takes to get Pitt on board for the franchise, and are even willing to make him the highest-paid actor in history in the process. "MI:IV will not include Cruise's character, agent Ethan Hunt," an insider told a British paper. "They're considering a brief mention, saying Hunt retired to live a safe life with his new wife. They're set on Brad taking over as a gutsy new head operative who puts together his own unique team of specialists. Everything's being kept top secret, but they're offering Brad a deal no one could possibly refuse. There's no doubt this would make Brad Pitt the biggest and highest paid star in the world."
Mischa Barton you're so Vain!
Mischa Barton has no interest in dating an actor, because there would be war over who gets to spend the most time in front of the mirror every morning. The former OC star, who is currently dating Whitestarr singer Cisco Adler, admits she is so vain, she couldn't cope with a boyfriend who cared about his appearance as much as her. She says, "Who'd look in the mirror most? It's bad enough with me in the house. "I'm really slow leaving in the morning because I'm lazy and easily distracted, and I also spend far too long looking in the mirror. "It wouldn't be a good idea to have to share my life with a man who cares as much about his looks as I do about mine. "I like to be very careful about my boyfriends and I can't remember meeting any actor and thinking, 'I must get him to take an interest in me.'"
Clay Aiken is becoming a man....
Clay Aiken is no longer the charmingly awkward, self-confessed "dork" who came in second on 2003's second season of American Idol. He has a new look, a new album – A Thousand Different Ways, which hit stores Tuesday – and some new, hard-won wisdom. "I'm becoming a man, not just with my hair," he says, laughing about his darker, longer 'do, "but with my life. This year's been an education: the education of Clay." He's also aware of what people have been saying about him this year, and in the new issue of PEOPLE (on newsstands Friday), he addresses rumors about his sexuality and more. Here's a preview: On whether he's gay: "What do you say (to that question)? … It's like when I was 8. I remember something would get broken in the house, and Mom and Dad would call me in and say, 'Did you do this?' Well, it didn't matter what I said. The only thing they would believe was yes. … People are going to believe what they want."
Cindy's Secret
Although Cindy Crawford is threatening to sue the French magazine Gala for publishing statements she never made about receiving Botox, we hear from fashion insiders that despite the false article, there has been speculation for some time the 40-year-old supermodel has in fact had a little nip and tuck. Cindy has retained her flawless looks with "Botox injections and an eyebrow lift," says a source. Her spokesman said: "Cindy Crawford has retained legal counsel to investigate the publication of a fictitious 'interview' in French Gala magazine. Ms. Crawford never participated in any such interview. The interview contained false and defamatory statements." After viewing photos of Crawford from 2004 versus 2006, renowned Manhattan plastic surgeon Dr. Howard Bellin (who has not treated the supermodel) told us, "She's either had a brow lift or found an incredible new way to tweeze her eyebrows."
Fall Season Death Watch 2006
With a new television season starting Monday, this is the time of year network executives go to sleep with visions of big hits in their heads and get a reality check when they wake before dawn to check the ratings on their Blackberrys. A Web site connected to the Bravo network is playing to their nightmares this year.The site, Brilliantbutcancelled.com, is running a sweepstakes for fans to predict which of the 24 new series being introduced by the broadcast networks this fall will be the first canceled. The "Fall Season Death Watch 2006" game actually regenerates each week for nine weeks. Participants who guess the first show axed each week are entered into a sweepstakes to win a video iPod; everyone competes for the iPod on weeks when no series bite the dust. Play the game Click Here.
Diaz Files Police Report Vs Photographer
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Cameron Diaz filed a police report Wednesday accusing a photographer of assault with a deadly weapon for allegedly driving his car at her, police said.
Diaz and her boyfriend, Justin Timberlake, were leaving a friend's home in Hollywood just after midnight Wednesday when a photographer who had been hiding in the bushes jumped out and tried to snap a picture of the pair, said police Officer April Harding.
The couple chased the photographer "a short distance," she said.
"The photographer got into his car and drove toward Diaz and Timberlake, causing Diaz to jump out of the car's way," Harding said.
No one was immediately arrested and no suspects have been identified.
"The investigation is in its initial stages," Harding said.
A law that took effect this year holds photographers who engage in criminal behavior to get a picture liable for three times the damages they cause, plus loss of any profits the published photo might generate.
Diaz and her boyfriend, Justin Timberlake, were leaving a friend's home in Hollywood just after midnight Wednesday when a photographer who had been hiding in the bushes jumped out and tried to snap a picture of the pair, said police Officer April Harding.
The couple chased the photographer "a short distance," she said.
"The photographer got into his car and drove toward Diaz and Timberlake, causing Diaz to jump out of the car's way," Harding said.
No one was immediately arrested and no suspects have been identified.
"The investigation is in its initial stages," Harding said.
A law that took effect this year holds photographers who engage in criminal behavior to get a picture liable for three times the damages they cause, plus loss of any profits the published photo might generate.
Owen attends Children of Men premiere
Hot British actor Clive Owen attended last night's star-studded premiere of his latest film, Children of Men.He was joined on the red carpet by fellow Brit Sir Michael Caine and his elegant wife Hakira.Newcomer Clare-Hope Ashitey, who has a leading role in the bleak futuristic film, also wowed the crowds at London's Leicester Square.Set in 2027, Children of Men portrays a chaotic world in which humans can no longer have children. But one woman (played by Ashitey) holds possible hope for mankind if only she can be kept safe.Owen told ITV that the Mexican director of the film, Alfonso Cuaron, was determined that he would not be the stereotypical hero."Alfonso deliberately didn't want the cliche lead character that bursts into life and saves the girl and saves the world at the end of the movie," he said."To make sure that didn't happen in the biggest action sequences of the film he put me in flip-flops."Children of Men opens at UK cinemas this Friday.
Singers gear up for Mobo awards
Beyonce and Corinne Bailey Rae are leading the female front for this year's Mobo (Music of Black Origin) Awards.R'n'B singer Beyonce is nominated for four categories in tonight's awards: best international female, best song, best video and best R'n'B act.But she'll see some strong competition for the first category, as she is up against Mary J Blige, Nelly Furtado, Janet Jackson and Alicia Keys.Meanwhile Leeds-born soul singer Corinne Bailey Rae is short-listed for best UK female, best UK newcomer and best song.After being named as the number one predicted breakthrough act of 2006 in an annual poll of BBC critics, Rae's debut album went straight to the top of the UK album charts.Likely winners for the best UK male award include former Fame Academy winner Lemar and hip-hop singer Sway.Held at the Royal Albert Hall, the awards will be shown live tonight on BBC 3 with highlights shown on BBC 1 this Friday.
Madge lops off her locks
The queen of self-reinvention Madonna has unveiled yet another new look a bleach-blonde bob.Apparently Madge got the chop in order to mark turning 48 last month not in order to be more like Victoria Beckham, who has also ditched her long hair recently.The singer showed off her new 'do at an exhibition in Tokyo this week. She is in Japan as part of the last leg of her Confessions tour.
Top Gear presenter hurt in crash
Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond is "seriously ill" in hospital after being involved in a high-speed crash while filming the motoring show. Hammond, 36, was airlifted to the neurological unit at Leeds General Infirmary after the "dragster-style car" he was driving crashed at Elvington airfield, near York. Reports claim that the presenter had been filming an attempt to break the British land speed record when the car, capable of reaching speeds of up to 300mph, crashed. A spokesman for Leeds General Infirmary said that he was in a "stable" condition following the accident. A former firefighter, who was providing emergency cover at the airfield in case of an accident, said that the crash happened as Mr Hammond completed a final run before the Top Gear crew prepared to finish filming for the day. Dave Ogden, who runs private firm Event Fire Services and witnessed the crash, described what had happened to the high-powered car the presenter of the BBC show was driving. "They had just done one more run and were planning to finish when it veered off to the right," he said. "One of the parachutes had deployed but it went on to the grass and spun over and over before coming to a rest about 100 yards from us." Mr Ogden said that he felt Hammond for a pulse and heard him breathing before emergency crews worked to turn the upturned vehicle over and cut the presenter free. Former Top Gear presenter Quentin Wilson described Hammond's accident as a "huge, huge tragedy". "He is a wonderful, unique and distinctive Top Gear presenter," added Wilson. "He has brought an awful lot to the programme and his indefatigable energy, the fact that he tries absolutely anything once, may have been the reason that he has overstepped the mark a bit," he added.
Beyonce outshines competition at Mobo awards
Beyonce Knowles was the big winner at last night's Mobo (Music of Black Origin) Awards, scooping up three top music prizes. The US R'n'B singer beat off strong competition from Mary J Blige, Nelly Furtado, Janet Jackson and Alicia Keys to be named best international female. The star, who was not present at the Royal Albert Hall ceremony, also won awards for best song and best video for Deja Vu, the single performed with her fiance Jay-Z. Meanwhile, Leeds-born soul singer Corinne Bailey Rae represented the best of Britain's home-grown talent, receiving two awards for best UK female and best UK newcomer. Bailey Rae, whose self-titled debut album went straight to the top of the UK album charts on its release, proved her worth during a jazz-influenced performance at yesterday's ceremony. Former Fame Academy winner Lemar, who scooped the prize for best UK male, also performed his new single, It's Not That Easy. Despite the title of his song, the star doesn't seem to have encountered too much trouble establishing a long-term music career unlike many reality TV talent hopefuls, having won the award two years in a row. Black Eyed Peas also had something to celebrate last night after winning the Mobo prize for best group. But one of the artist's most pleased with their success was Ms Dynamite's younger brother Akala, who won the award for best hip-hop act. Following in the footsteps of his sister, who won three Mobo awards in 2002, Akala insisted that there was no rivalry between the siblings. "Every time she won an award I felt like I'd won an award as well and I think she feels the same for me," he said in comments reported by the BBC. "There's no rivalry or competition at all. She sat next to me tonight and my mother was there too. I'm sure she's really proud." Highlights of the Mobo Awards, shown live on BBC 3 last night, will be screened on BBC 1 this Friday.
Matt LeBlanc's divorce finalised
Matt LeBlanc is officially single again, as his divorce from Melissa McKnight has been legally dissolved.The 'Friends' star and his former wife will share custody of Marina, their two-year-old daughter.In their prenuptial agreement, signed before their wedding in 2003, Melissa waived her right for future spousal support.However, Matt will pay $15,000 a month in child support until Marina's 18th birthday, according to court documents.He will also be responsible for funding all her private school tuition, medical expenses, nanny services and her college fees.The couple were engaged for five years before they exchanged vows in May 2003.But less than two years later, Matt had moved out of their Californian home and he filed for divorce in April this year.It is believed that Matt is currently dating his 'Joey' co-star Andrea Anders.
Jessica to become 'Working Girl'
Jessica Simpson has confirmed that she is set to star in a remake of the 1988 blockbuster 'Working Girl'.She will take the leading role in 'Blonde Ambition' in a role based upon the one that catapulted Melanie Griffith to superstardom nearly two decades ago.Strutting her stuff on the red carpet at the premiere of her latest film, 'Employee of the Month', Jess confirmed the news.'I'm so excited about it,' she gushed to Extra, adding that people 'are going to laugh'.Meanwhile, 'Jackass' star Bam Margera has once again added fuel to speculation that he had bedded Jess while she was still married to Nick Lachey.Promoting his latest film on the radio programme of shock jock Howard Stern, Bam said he had 'bumped into' Jess while she was filming 'The Dukes of Hazzard' with his mate Johnny Knoxville.He wouldn't confirm or deny that they had slept together, but did say that they were drinking margaritas at her parents' house 'and it went from there'.And when Stern asked him if Jessica looked good in the buff, Bam said she had a personal trainer for the film in which she appears in hotpants.He added: 'Yeah, she looked good I can't deny that!'
Brangelina donate $1m to children
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have announced that they have each donated $1 million to two organisations, Global Action for Children and Medicins san Frontieres (MSF) or 'Doctors Without Borders'. The funding comes as part of the pair's newly formed charitable organisation, the Jolie/Pitt Foundation.'In the most troubled parts of the world places that much of the world has abandoned MSF is always there,' said Jolie in a statement issued by Trevor Neilson, the couple's philanthropic and political adviser. 'I have seen these brave men and women working in war zones and horrific conditions and I deeply admire them.'Angelina has been a goodwill ambassador for the UN High Commission for refugees since she spent time in Cambodia filming 'Tomb Raider'. The actress has also adopted two of her children from Cambodia and Ethiopia. Pitt and Jolie, who met while filming 'Mr and Mrs Smith', have a biological daughter Shiloh Nouvel. Jennifer Delaney, US director for Global Action for Children, said that the effort shown by the movie star couple helps to bring awareness and make a difference in people's lives. 'Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt not only care, but more important, are taking concrete action to address the fact that there will be 20 million children orphaned by Aids by 2010, and millions more orphaned by tuberculosis, malaria and conflict or whose parents are sick and dying,' she said.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Owen defends Craig's Bond
Clive Owen has defended new James Bond star Daniel Craig following ongoing criticisms that his fellow actor is not up to the role of 007. Owen, himself tipped as a possible contender to play the suave secret agent before Craig landed the part, told the BBC that the release of the latest Bond film would prove what a "great choice" movie producers had made in casting a "proper actor" for the iconic role. Craig is due to make his debut as Ian Fleming's notorious spy in Casino Royale, the 21st official Bond film which is due for general release on November 17th. Owen, who clearly harbours no bitterness over not being selected for the role of 007 himself, told the BBC: "I think when Craig first took the part he got a pretty rough ride, which to a certain extent is inevitable because there are so many different people who have so many different ideas about something like that." "The thing that is really exciting is that he is a proper actor," added Owen. "He is not shallow or posing, they have cast a really serious actor and I think that when the film comes out everyone will see what a great choice he was." Meanwhile 007 himself has hit back at critics who have claimed that he is too soft to convincingly play Bond, amid reports of Craig's fear of heights and his need to wear a life jacket when filming scenes on the water. Following new claims that the actor had to be given an automatic version of Bond's trademark Aston Martin as he had been unable to work the gears in a manual model, Craig, 38, boasted that he had reached 170 miles per hour in the super car. "I got it to 170 just the other day," bragged the actor, according to the Daily Mirror.
Shannen: I wasn't as bad as today's Hollywood girls
Before 'The OC' and 'Laguna Beach' there was 'Beverly Hills 90210' and before Lindsay, Paris and Nicole, there was Shannen Doherty.And the former 'Beverly Hills 90210' hellraiser now says her wild days of the past are rather mellow compared to what today's starlets get up to.Shannen famously clashed with her co-stars and producers on set, as well as being involved in various scandals back in the 90s.But now she insists she has grown up and that her 'bad girl days' are 'mild' in comparison to the things Hollywood's leading ladies get up to today.According to Contact Music, the 35-year-old actress said: 'Now they're making porno tapes and they're doing all sorts of things.'She added: 'It's so funny to me because, looking back at the stuff I did back then, it was just part of the growing up process.'It has been 12 years since Shannen left the popular 'Beverly Hills' series and she has since starred in various made-for-TV movies and achieved some success as Prue in the series 'Charmed'.
Eminem's divorce proceedings handed to mediator
Their unconventional romance has seen words of hate rapped, threatening tattoos inked on each others body and now a divorce settlement that is lasting longer than the marriage itself did. Marshall Mathers, aka Eminem, and wife Kimberley have been married twice but the second divorce is taking so long to be finalised that its proceedings have been handed to a mediator.The couple's second marriage lasted only 82 days. After their second wedding in Michigan on January 14th, the marital bliss only lasted until April 5th when Eminem filed for divorce.But because they failed to come to an agreement over the terms of the split, a mediator has now been assigned to handle the case.'Nobody likes to be in court,' Kimberley Mathers' attorney Michael J. Smith told Associated Press. 'But both parties want to do what's best for their children.'According to E! Online, Kimberley is requesting custody of their ten-year-old daughter Hailie Jade, child and spousal support and mortgage payments for the former family home. The pair have never been the run of the mill high school sweethearts. Since marrying in 1999, having a daughter and then divorcing in 2001, the couple have been in and out of the media declaring their hatred for one another
Ashanti settles dispute with producer
Ashanti has put to rest her dispute with her first producer in an out-of-court settlement.Genard Parker had been seeking $2.3 million (£1.22 million) from the award-winning R'n'B singer as he claimed that he had helped to launch her career by recording demo songs when she was 16.But all litigation was dropped yesterday in a decision which Ashanti said she was "very pleased about".The 25-year-old singer told the Associated Press that she would "rather be in the studio writing".No details of the agreement have been released by either of the parties in the dispute.In a trial last year Ashanti was ordered to pay Parker $630,000 for breaking her contract with him, but the judge decided just $50,000 of the award should be paid as he believed the jury could not sufficiently judge the facts of the case.In 2002 her self-titled debut album won a Grammy award and two American Music awards.As well as being a successful singer, Ashanti has also made headway in the acting world, with appearances in Coach Carter and John Tucker Must Die.
J Lo 'undergoes IVF'
Jennifer Lopez is said to be undergoing IVF treatment as she is desperate to have children.According to the Sun newspaper, the singer and actress has been trying the fertility treatment at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles.Curvaceous J-Lo is said to have told other women receiving treatment there that she wants to have two children with her husband, the singer Marc Anthony."She said she'd recently started treatment and couldn't wait to have a family," a fellow patient told the newspaper.Since her wedding to Anthony in 2004 the singer has made no secret of her desire to have children. Last year she was reported to have claimed that she would "do anything to get pregnant".The Sun also reports that she has undergone a strict health regime to help her get pregnant.Other A-list actresses who have been desperate to have children have turned to adoption to fulfil their maternal urges, including Sharon Stone and Angelina Jolie.
Kate Moss designs range for Topshop
Kate Moss has joined forces with Topshop to design and create her own collection for the high street store.The range, known as Kate Moss for Topshop, will be available in all of its 308 stores and its online site from the spring of next year."I have always been a big fan of Topshop and regularly shop there. I love what they stand for and am very excited at the thought of working with them. It's going to be great fun," Moss said.Topshop's owner, Philip Green, said in a statement: "Kate has a unique position as a true fashion icon and I look forward to helping develop Kate Moss for Topshop into a global brand."It is the final stage in her remarkable comeback from a year ago when she was shunned by some of the biggest names in the fashion industry.Brands including Burberry and Hennes and Mauritz dropped the model from their advertising campaigns following photos in a tabloid newspaper which appeared to show her snorting cocaine.Since then she has gradually made her way back to the top of the business through numerous contracts including Calvin Klein and Dior.
Capote director explores immortality
Bennett Miller, the director of the Oscar-winning film Capote, has signed up to explore people's efforts at obtaining immortality.His latest project, entitled The Immortalist, has yet to be written but is said to be "a character-driven drama set in the emerging world of life extension".According to Hollywood Reporter, Miller said that it was not a film about science fiction, but is instead "a drama set in the very real world of those pursuing biological immortality".He added: "It's a pursuit that attracts some extremely brilliant, wealthy and influential people. It also attracts tragic figures. This story follows one such person on his disturbing foray into it."Further details of the film are currently under wraps, although it will be produced by Paramount Vantage and Plan B, Brad Pitt's production company.Miller was nominated for an Oscar for the best achievement in directing for Capote as well as for the Bafta's David Lean award for direction.
Christie Brinkley Files for Divorce
It looks like any hopes for a reconciliation are over for Christie Brinkley and Peter Cook. According to People magazine, Christie has filed the necessary paperwork to move forward with a divorce from her architect husband. David Aronson, a member of Peter's legal team told the magazine that his client is upset over his wife's decision to move forward with the divorce.
"He was hopeful that they would be able to work through this and continue their marriage. He is saddened by the fact that she has decided to move forward, but he understands that's her right and he will respect that,"said Aronson.
Peter doesn't exactly have a choice in this matter since he's the one that made such a huge mistake. He couldn't keep his hands to himself and actually thought that he could get away with it. In July, the couple announced that they were calling it quits after ten years of marriage amidst rumors of infidelity. It turned out that Peter was in fact having an affair with Diana Bianchi, a local teenager that he "employed" at his firm. Peter is now going to have to shop for a new assistant as well as a new wife.
"He was hopeful that they would be able to work through this and continue their marriage. He is saddened by the fact that she has decided to move forward, but he understands that's her right and he will respect that,"said Aronson.
Peter doesn't exactly have a choice in this matter since he's the one that made such a huge mistake. He couldn't keep his hands to himself and actually thought that he could get away with it. In July, the couple announced that they were calling it quits after ten years of marriage amidst rumors of infidelity. It turned out that Peter was in fact having an affair with Diana Bianchi, a local teenager that he "employed" at his firm. Peter is now going to have to shop for a new assistant as well as a new wife.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Irwin tributes 'no joke'
Unorthodox online tributes to Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, who died earlier this month, have not been pleasing all fans of the Australian conservationist. Many fans have flooded internet video website YouTube with their own versions of the footage which documentary makers were filming at the moment of Irwin's death. Irwin died after a barb from a stingray pierced his heart while he was filming a documentary for his young daughter. While the actual footage of his death is currently in the hands of Queensland police, fans have chosen to pay tribute to Irwin by recreating the underwater scene not a tribute to everyone's taste. Meanwhile a separate form of memorial on the internet has also attracted substantial criticism. A game has been launched on the internet which features Irwin swimming along before a stingray pounces and finishes him off, with the ubiquitous "game over" sign popping up to indicate his demise. This, too, has been criticised by many as unacceptably bad taste as the real-life memorial service has yet to take place. An even more disturbing consequence of Irwin's unexpected death is a wave of violence aimed against stingrays on the Queensland coast of Australia, where up to 12 stingrays have been found, cruelly mutilated, lying dead on the shore. The apparent revenge attacks have been condemned by naturalists.
Hobbit hopefuls queue for stage quest
Hundreds of people hoping to land the role of a hobbit in the forthcoming stage adaptation of Lord of the Rings turned out for auditions in London yesterday. More than 1,000 people are estimated to have attended the one-day audition at the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane, staged by the show's organisers to find the 20 hobbits they need for the £25 million musical version of Tolkein's famous trilogy. The West End show, due to open next June, follows on from the global success enjoyed by Peter Jackson's blockbuster Lord of the Rings films. But rather than relying on special effects to re-create the miniature, ale-gargling heroes of Tolkein's epic tale, organisers of the new Lord of the Rings musical will be relying on more traditional means to ensure that eventual members of the show's chorus are shrunk to hobbit-size. In notices for yesterday's audition, the show's producer Kevin Wallace specified that while having hairy toes and a personality "with hobbit-like tendencies" would be an advantage, applicants had to meet a height requirement specifying that they should be under 5ft 7in to perform in the musical. Many of those turning out in the hope of securing a part didn't look much like hobbits, with most of the hopefuls comprising of new stage school graduates trying to make their big break. "I don't really want to be a hobbit. I just wasn't doing anything today and my agent hasn't lined much up," one 23-year-old female stage school graduate told the Guardian newspaper. Still it appeared that the unhobbit-like tendencies of those auditioning did not deter enthusiastic producer Mr Wallace who declared: "By the time we've finished with them, they will look like hobbits."
Let me decline to entertain you
Could Robbie Williams have pushed his strenuous touring schedule a little bit too far? The international pop superstar may have the crowd-pulling power of the best in the business, but that doesn't mean he can't turn around and say 'enough' to his adoring fans. Williams has blamed worries about his health for his decision to cancel the Asian dates for his Close Encounters world tour, which is currently working its way around Britain. He has called off a number of gigs in south-east Asia, including shows in Hong Kong, Singapore, Mumbai and Bangalore, because of "stress and exhaustion". To be fair to the Let Me Entertain You star, he has been working his little socks off recently. A statement issued by his promoters said that he has performed over 40 shows this summer, to over three million people. It is currently unclear whether or not the Australian leg of his world tour is in danger of being cancelled.
Tarrant and wife split
Television quiz show host Chris Tarrant has announced that he and his wife Ingrid are to split. The presenter of ITV1 quiz show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? was ultimately given the final answer to the question of whether his marriage would survive tabloid revelations about his private life, admitting in a statement that he had only himself to blame for the collapse of his relationship. In a statement, Tarrant, 59, appealed to the media for privacy in the wake of his separation from wife Ingrid, 51, following newspaper claims that the TV presenter had been having an affair. "I am deeply sorry for the hurt I have caused to my loyal wife and wonderful children, all of whom I adore," said Tarrant. "I have only myself to blame for the breakdown of my marriage." "While the liaison which has led to all of this was not significant in my life, I will always regret the hurt and pain that I have caused to those whom I love," he added. "I now appeal to the media to leave us all alone to allow us to deal in private with what are intensely personal and private matters." The breakdown between Tarrant and his wife follows a series of advertisements made by the couple which joked about the TV presenter forgetting their anniversary and being forced to sleep on the sofa as a result.
British Keira is 'greatest Hollywood starlet'
'Pirates of the Caribbean' star Keira Knightley has been named the greatest ever movie starlet ever to grace the big screen.The 21-year-old Brit edged to the top over Hollywood legend Judy Garland in the Yahoo! Entertainment poll.Blonde bombshell Scarlett Johansson had to make do with the third place, while cutesy 1930s child star Shirley Temple took fifth position.A total of 1,600 film fanatics voted in the poll, which saw Natalie Portman and Lindsay Lohan feature alongside older stars such as Mia Farrow and Brooke Shields.But it was Keira who was the clear winner. A Yahoo! spokesperson commented: 'Scarlett may be the talk of Tinseltown but it's Keira's class that leads the pack.'The representative explained: 'A starlet is an actress who people instantly think of as being young, vivacious, stylish, popular and - most of all - talented.
Clooney signs up for Leatherheads
After years of rumours and talks about Leatherheads, George Clooney's involvement in the forthcoming film has finally been pinned down.The Hollywood actor will direct and star in the romantic comedy. Renee Zellweger is said to be in talks with the production company to co-star in the film.Clooney will also rewrite the script, which is set in the 1920s against a backdrop of the formation of pro American football, Variety reports.The original idea for the film centres around an ageing football player who attempts to encourage a young college football star to drop out and join the new professional league.Meanwhile Clooney is currently busy filming Ocean's 13 as well as doing his bit for the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.At an informal meeting hosted by the US ambassador to the UN last week, the Oscar-winning star urged the UN to force a halt in the ongoing violence in Sudan's Darfur region."In many ways it is unfair but it is nevertheless true that this genocide will be on your watch. How you deal with it will be your legacy. Your Rwanda, your Cambodia, your Auschwitz," he said.
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