The Apple Pitt

In With the New

2008-12-30T17:47:33Z

As 2008 comes to a close, some celebrities choose to celebrate the holidays with their loved ones--while other Hollywood mainstays stick to what they know best.

Box-office Blitz
Jennifer Aniston must have been on Santa's good list this year.

The Marley & Me star--alongside comedic costar Owen Wilson-- broke December 25 debut records with her new puppy-focused flick. The comedy opened at No. 1 with $14.4 million in ticket sales, despite being panned by critics before its release. But believe it or not, that's so not the point. The real Christmas miracle occurred when Aniston's family film claimed victory over ex Brad Pitt's new drama, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button -- whose reviews have already bestowed Oscar buzz. The exes' film projects both hit the big-screen on the same day. And though Pitt's movie did gross $11.8 million, this race was hardly one about financial figures.

This round goes to Aniston.

]]> She Says, He Says
Hopefully, surprise siblings won't be the must-have Christmas present in 2009.

"My father just let my family and [me] know, amongst other [things] that he had another child after my little sister Aliana," the actress posted on her MySpace page on December 24. The infamous party girl continued--"Or maybe he had it before Aliana?? Either way, he cheated on my mother and that really sucks."

But Michael Lohan isn't one to go down without a fight. Not only did the outspoken estranged-father deny the claim, but he went on to slam his daughter's girlfriend, DJ Samantha Ronson, claiming it was she who likely penned the tirade.

But just two days later, the livid dad launched MikeLohanOnline.com-- a personal website, and posted a blog entry entitled, "To set the record straight." He clarifies his side of the story:

"Let me say that this Web site is NOT about Lindsay or Samantha," Lohan contends. "I have no intention of disclosing any information or feelings I may have about either one of them unless it is in defense of what they or one of their 'mouthpieces' might say about me." In fact, Michael tells the Daily News that he intends for his site to document his own life. Lohan maintained that he would not utilize the site to launch accusations, although he explains "if that includes dispelling some things said of me in the media, so be it."

Mistletoe Marriage?
Rumors flew that Brazilian-born supermodel, Gisele Bundchen, and New England Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady got engaged this weekend, after TMZ broke the news that the new dad-- who welcomed 16-month old son, John, with former flame Bridget Moynahan-- popped the question on a private jet ride. According to the report, dozens of white roses, champagne, and Bundchen's parents greeted the fiancée-in-flux on the aircraft.

But days later, family and friends are denying the couple is planning a trip down the aisle anytime soon. Tom Brady Sr., the NFL star's father, told the Boston Globe, "We don't know a thing about it. Nobody told me. We talked to him and there's nothing to say. It's rumor, rumor, rumor. It must be a slow news day." Friends echoed Brady's family's statements, telling Us Weekly that the airplane proposal sounded "cheesy" and not Brady's style.

So, there you have it.

Wedding Ring Riddle

2008-12-23T18:01:51Z

Jennifer Lopez hits a premiere with an unadorned ring finger, while hubby Marc Anthony parties hard in New York City. Could the couple be headed for a split?

Problems on the 'Block'
Just ten months after the birth of twins Max and Emme, there may be trouble in paradise for musical power couple, Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez. Us Weekly reports Lopez hit the red carpet for the premiere of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button in L.A., less two of her customary accessories--her man and her wedding ring. Meanwhile, Anthony was hitting the nightlife on the opposite coast, in New York City, and witnesses confirm that his behavior was hardly that of a married man. One source tells the weekly, "He was acting kind of dirty. Marc put his hand on one girl's thigh."

]]> Why the sudden trouble? Some say Lopez is bored. Others insist that the former showstopper is blaming Anthony for her dwindling career. Though she once collected $15 million per motion picture, Anthony's efforts to secure stardom for his superstar wife through projects geared toward the Hispanic community have flopped. Critics panned the couple's film, El Cantante, and Lopez's Spanish music endeavors are a mere shadow of her success in the U.S. A final theory attributes the marital demise to Lopez's growing interest in Scientology.

But despite the less-than-favorable reports, the pair stepped out for a romantic dinner at Beverly Hills restaurant, Luau, on the evening of December 16. According to reports, the couple snuggled up in a booth together and put their affection on public display.

Then again, in Hollywood, stranger things have happened. If it's just an act, the truth will come out in time.

Love is in the Air
Save the date! Black Eyed Peas beauty Fergie and beau of four years, Josh Duhamel, may be headed down the aisle soon. Recent reports claim that the couple plans to tie the knot on the weekend of January 9--11 in Southern California. TMZ recently nabbed the twosome perusing kitchen items at a Crate and Barrel in Beverly Hills. But Duhamel insisted that they were registering for "Christmas gifts," not wedding presents.

Jessica Alba and Cash Warren made their love official in a low-key courthouse ceremony May 19, the famous duet decided to celebrate their commitment December 19. The event took place at the couple's recently renovated $4 million pad in Beverly Hills with the Mr. and Mrs.' 6-month-old daughter, Honor, in tow. Both Alba and Warren's fathers gave speeches honoring the pair and a mariachi band later entertained guests.

False alarm. Though In Touch magazine reports that Benji Madden--who recently split from heiress Paris Hilton--has been getting cozy with none other than pop princess Britney Spears. What's more? The rag claims that Spears' dad, Jamie, and manager Larry Rudolph carefully manufactured the unlikely romance. But don't hold your breath. E! News reports that the tall-tales are false. "The claims made by In Touch are completely false," a rep for Britney Spears confirms. "There is not an ounce of truth to any of it."

Trouble in Taradise

2008-12-16T18:24:51Z

Party girl Tara Reid finally checks into rehab. The real surprise--What took so long?

A rep for actress Tara Reid, 33, told press that the self-proclaimed "social drinker" had checked into a rehab facility on Friday--though what the star is being treated for was not specified. Us Weekly interviewed the American Pie star in 2003. In the interview, Reid admitted, "Trust me, my body is tired. I partied hard." She also called her E! series, Taradise, "probably the stupidest thing I ever did."

]]> In 2004, Reid was famously photographed on the red carpet with an exposed breast. Controversy ensued because the actress had recently undergone breast augmentation surgery--and, regrettably, the nip-slip exposed a botched job. Her troubles didn't end there. In addition to her unfavorable reputation, Reid suffered medical complications stemming from shoddy liposuction procedures. Photographs of her damaged body swept the tabloids. "I got lipo because even though I was skinny, I wanted -- I'm not going to lie -- a six-pack. I had body contouring, but it all went wrong. My stomach became the most ripply, bulgy thing," the actress has confessed of her misfortune.

Touché!
Don't get mad, get even! After splitting from her husband of 14 years in May, country star Shania Twain is getting close with Frédéric Thiébaud, the ex-husband of her former best friend--who sources say broke up Twain's marriage to Robert "Mutt" Lange. Twain, 43, allegedly finds solace in her new friend, who is also working through the end of his marriage. Does gossip get any better than this!

Stork Visit
It's a boy! Naomi Watts gave birth to her second son with partner Liev Schreiber this Sunday. The couple--who welcomed son Alexander Pete in July 2007--has not yet released the name of their new addition. Schreiber and Watts met on the set of the 2006 drama, The Painted Veil, but have not yet tied the knot.

SNL's Farewell
"This is my last show," Amy Poehler announced on this weekend's episode of Saturday Night Live. The new mom, who welcomed son Archie two months ago with husband Will Arnett, broke the news to fans from her "Weekend Update" anchor desk. "I love you and I will miss all of you very much," Poehler added. In September, the comedienne hinted at departure from her eight-season stint saying, "Like any good drug, you need to know when to put it down." Poehler has already signed on to join NBC's upcoming Office spin-off.

Heartbreaking Accident 
Last Tuesday night, tragedy met famed child star Macaulay Culkin and his family. The actor's sister Dakota Culkin, 29, was struck by a car in L.A., and sadly passed away the following morning. No crime was committed, police have said of the fatal mishap. Dana Schroeder, a director who recently worked with Caulkin behind-the-scenes on indie film Lost Soul, tells People magazine, "Dakota was very humble...[She was] a real sweetheart, a really good kid."

Oscar Buzz
Hugh Jackman--People magazine's "Sexiest Man Alive" for 2008--is set to host 2009 Oscars. The humble actor admits, "Thirty years ago when I was in Sydney watching Johnny Carson host the Oscars with my family, I never imagined that I'd one day have the chance to be up on that stage myself." The offbeat choice is a deliberate change of pace for the Academy Awards telecast, which posted its lowest ratings ever in February.

The Juice on 'The Juice'

2008-12-09T20:54:04Z

Busted! O.J. Simpson may spend up to 33 years behind bars.

In The Slammer

Hope he likes the color orange.

O.J. Simpson lands himself a jail sentence--and this time it has nothing to do with Nicole Brown Simpson. The ex-football star nabbed a punishment of up to 33 years in prison after being convicted of armed robbery and kidnapping. Ironically, a Las Vegas jury delivered their verdict on October 3 - thirteen years to the day after Simpson's famous acquittal for the double murder of his ex wife and her friend Ronald Goldman. The conviction stemmed from a 2007 struggle between Simpson, 61, and two sports memorabilia dealers over items he claimed were his in a Las Vegas hotel room.
And though Simpson offered an "I'm sorry" in the courthouse, his future--at least until he is eligible for parole in nine years--promises a wardrobe full of jumpsuits and all the mystery meat he could eat.

]]> How Rude!

It's not a Full House for Jodie Sweetin anymore.

In addition to her bout with methamphetamine, the former child star adds a second failed marriage to her personal resume. The 26-year-old actress filed for separation from husband Cody Herpin last month, but new court documents shed details on the couple's unstable union. Apparently, Herpin, a transportation coordinator in the film industry, has been unemployed since the pair exchanged vows. "Our house is in foreclosure, our water has been shut off twice. Currently, all of our other utilities are overdue," the actress revealed in the legal papers.
But the self-proclaimed "stay-at-home dad" tells a different story. Herpin explains that he's been on diaper duty since the couple's daughter, Zoie, was born April 12. In addition, Herpin-- who claims, "I still have no idea what this is about"-- is seeking sole legal and physical custody of the couple's daughter and spousal support from Sweetin.
Except the single mom disputes the claim, citing a heated exchange on November 17-- when Sweetin gave her second spouse news of their split. "He told me I could not take Zoie with me. He said he would call the police and report that she was abducted by me and seek sole custody."

For now, a hearing has been scheduled for February 9.

Say It Ain't So

There's no such thing as bad publicity, eh? Celebrities should know that tabloid tall tales are just a part of the biz. Except some stars hit their breaking point this week.

"I feel like telling people, 'You know what? It's none of your (expletive) business," Marley & Me star Jennifer Aniston tells USA Today. What's the big idea? Apparently, Aniston thinks it's "ridiculous" that reporters dig around for dirt on her personal life. Though it sort of comes with the territory when you date within the A-list (beau is musician John Mayer).

Rumblings of a rift between Lindsay Lohan and her DJ girlfriend, Samantha Ronson, are nothing new to the tabloids. But the notorious party girl is lashing back at the rumor mill. "They should just stop asking altogether, once and for all, if she and I are broken up," Lohan blogged on her MySpace page. "Wow, the people that make s--t up must really feel silly, embarrassed, out of stories, scr*w*d... punk'd, and so much more," she adds. OK! We get it.

And what's a week in Hollywood without a little bump speculation? Celebrity blogger Perez Hilton posted reports last week that Janet Jackson may be expecting. But Jackson's faux-baby daddy, record producer Jermaine Dupri, ain't havin' it. "Does Perez know that lying destroys the credibility of a blogger?" Dupri shot back at Hilton by way of Us Weekly. And there you have it.

It Was a Really Bad Time

2008-12-02T17:19:30Z

Britney Spears finally gives her fans what they've been wanting for a whole calendar year: her personal explanation for the public collapse of a pop idol.

If anyone understands how crazy fame can get, it's Britney Spears. The pop princess aired all of her thoughts on her personal whirlwind in an MTV documentary, For the Record, which aired November 30. In the video, Spears dishes on everything from her breakup with Justin Timberlake to motherhood to her psychiatric breakdown.

]]>
And as for the juicy stuff? The star also dished on her split from Justin Timberlake and from former spouse, Kevin Federline. Spears explained, "With Justin, he was part of the magnitude of what I had become. So, when he was gone I was like, 'what am I supposed to do with myself?'" As for her marital demise, Spears added,"[Federline] started to do an album for himself and he started to do things for himself, and I just never saw him anymore. When it ended, I felt so alone. I didn't really wanna think about the reality of it. I never faced it... I just ran."

But Britney's come a long way from breakups and hospital stays. "At this point I have two precious jewels, my two boys [Sean Preston, 3, and Jayden James, 2]... and my job," the pop sensation said. "Those two things have kept me going really strong for the past three years."

Giving Thanks--Celeb Style

The Beckhams and the Cruises joined forces for Thanksgiving this year! Victoria joined her husband and sons, Brooklyn, 9, Romeo, 6, and Cruz, 3, as they went to the Big Apple Circus with Cruise, Holmes and their children, Suri, 2, and Connor, 13, and Isabella, 15. The gang rounded out the day with a stroll through Central Park and a Starbucks visit!

And Hollywood's new favorite couple, Madonna and A-Rod, partied with friends until 5 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day. But once the time to carve the turkey arrived, A-Rod had an early afternoon holiday meal in south Miami with his daughters, Natasha, 4, and Ella, nearly 8 months, and soon-to-be ex-wife Cynthia, while Madge celebrated with her brother Christopher Ciccone. But later that same day, the couple reunited at Rodriguez's Star Island Miami home to spend the night together.

Secret Marriage!

2008-11-25T17:07:02Z

Just when you thought it was impossible to keep anything hush-hush in Hollywood, reality stars Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag elope to Mexico to tie the knot.

They Eloped!
Us Weekly reports that The Hills' famous antagonists Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt shocked America this week by tying the knot in a private ceremony. The couple exchanged vows after they eloped to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico on November 20. Though the pair has had a rocky relationship, they gave it another go after taking a break when Pratt was flirting with another girl in a nightclub (as seen on the duo's hit MTV series). But prior to their break, Montag sported a purple stone that Pratt purchased for her at a shopping mall as an engagement ring. What will happen to the first round of marital bling? "I turned it into a pendant," Montag told Us Weekly. "It wasn't my dream ring. I don't like what it represents. I might sell it." Though Montag's parents will likely disapprove of the secret nuptials, Montag explains "[My mom] was starting so much drama, it kind of pushed me toward wanting to get married without that."
]]> Get ready for the cheese-factor. As for their vows, Pratt shared his intimate professions with Us Weekly. The aspiring mogul confessed, "Heidi, from the moment you came into my life, I knew my life would never be the same without you. You are the light in my life like the sun to the earth! Your loving warmth makes me want to be a better person. Being with you, I feel complete. I'm honored to even be able to call you my wife. You are the most amazing, loving and caring woman on this planet. I will love you forever and always."

You can gag now.

Amazing AMAs
The American Music Awards kicked off Sunday night at L.A.'s Nokia Theatre. Famous pop couple, Rihanna and Chris Brown, respectively took home two awards each at the ceremony, including Brown's win for Artist of the Year. Even the ever-arrogant Kanye West ate humble pie for this occasion. The controversial artist donated his second award of the night to fellow-nominee, Lil' Wayne, explaining "I want to give this award to Wayne, for this year. If it was last year, this would have been my award. This year's Wayne award; we'll see what happens next year." Nice change of pace, West.

The event was a breath of fresh air despite the recent flak that has met the lavish Hollywood award shows, as the show focused on performances and kept the chatter to a minimum. Their best move? Award presentations were the only interruptions from the artists' acts. Finally! We want to hear the music, man!

Dunzo
While the world gaps in surprise--ahh!--Benji Madden and Paris Hilton confirm their split. Are we surprised? No. But thanks for at least telling us now. What went wrong? A source tells People magazine, "She is saddened by the breakup but they're just too different and they wanted different things in life... He was loyal and sweet but it was time to take a break."

In other news, Madonna and Guy Ritchie have finally made their split official . The Queen of Pop and the British director have settled their differences over the $300 million in flux. While the pair will share custody of biological son Rocco and adopted son David Banda, Madonna's daughter Lourdes--from a previous relationship with Carlos Leon--will remain with her mother. As for the rest, the world must wait.

Whose Team Are You On?

2008-11-18T16:18:55Z

Just when you thought it was over--Angelina Jolie and Jennifer Aniston jump in the ring for round two.

The Gloves Are On!
Jennifer Aniston isn't keeping mum on the Brangelina-front anymore. The actress sat down with Vogue magazine for her December 2008 cover story and opened up about matters of the heart--in a big way. While the mag lent its ear to talk of home décor, reuniting with her famously estranged mother and starting a family, Vogue's Jonathan Van Meterwas sure to get down to the important stuff. Those two little words: Angelina Jolie.
]]> Despite tabloid speculation, Jolie put infidelity rumors to rest in a 2005 interview: "To be intimate with a married man, when my own father cheated on my mother, is not something I could forgive. I could not look at myself in the morning if I did that. I wouldn't be attracted to a man who would cheat on his wife." That is, until now. While promoting her newest flick, Changeling, Angelina Jolie made a seemingly backhanded comment in an interview with the New York Times. Jolie coyly revealed that her romance with Aniston-ex Brad Pitt did, in fact, begin during the duo's onscreen partnership in Mr. & Mrs. Smith. "Not a lot of people get to see a movie where their parents fell in love," Jolie explained of one of the perks of being a member of the Jolie-Pitt brood.

Aniston weighs in on the ironic admission with Van Meter: "There was stuff printed there that was definitely from a time when I was unaware that it was happening. I felt those details were a little inappropriate to discuss. That stuff about how she couldn't wait to get to work every day? That was really uncool." But the 39-year-old actress was much gentler with conversation regarding her former spouse. "I'm proud of him!" she gushes, "I think he's really done some amazing things."

So where, then, does that leave Jen's personal life? Well, one thing's for sure. Don't waste your time feeling sorry for her, because she's doing just fine. "This whole 'Poor lonely Jen' thing, this idea that I'm so unlucky in love? I actually feel I've been unbelievably lucky in love," the former Friends star vents. She even confirms what the public has already confirmed, in its own right--her romance with John Mayer. "I deeply, deeply care about him; we talk, we adore one another. And that's where it is," says Aniston. And as for his one-time paparazzi rant about their breakup? "He had to put that out there that he broke up with me," she justifies, chalking it up to coming with the territory of fame, but promises "Trust me, you'll never see that happen again from that man!"

On Thursday, Jen Aniston's visit to the Oprah show aired--just a day after the release of her Vogue interview. The actress stayed loyal to her candid remarks, despite the scrutiny. Aniston upheld, "[The Vogue interviewer] asked me a question and I basically just answered it as honestly as I could." This, of course, leaving the masses with one choice to make: Team Aniston or Team Jolie?!

Some Things Never Change

2008-11-11T18:24:13Z

Post-election, Hollywood gets back to business--with nudie pics, faux pregnancy reports, new love and of course, breakups.

Another Nudie No-No
Will they ever learn? Cheetah Girl Adrienne Bailon is the most recent celebrity to nab her very own nudie-pic scandal. The actress claims that the photos, allegedly taken for boyfriend Robert Kardashian, were stolen from her laptop--which she recently lost in a New York airport. Odd, considering that not one, but two of Kardashian's famous sisters have been at the center of their own sex scandals. Who can forget Kim's sex tape with rapper Ray-J? Keeping Up With the Kardashians even dedicated an entire episode sister Kourtney's naked snapshot shame.

"Adrienne will be pursuing legal action against the person or person's sending these private photos out," Bailon's rep told TMZ.COM.
 
Wonder what Disney will have to say about this!

]]> Madonna Matchmaker
Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake--on the same stage? It's true. The Pop Princess joined her Queen at Dodger Stadium Thursday night for a rendition of Madge's "Human Nature." But as for a romantic reunion, sparks did not fly. Spears and Timberlake hit the stage separately (JT performed his duet "4 Minutes" with Madonna) and sources say Spears split the scene quickly after her performance. It is unclear if the former flames crossed paths backstage. Fingers crossed!

No Bun in the Oven
While Star and In Touch magazines report that Jennifer Aniston is pregnant--or at least she "looks like" it--the actress refuted claims with a tight tank on Friday. Needless to say, she neglected to reveal a bump. Last week, Star even went so far as publishing that she's expecting twins. And although Aniston seems happier than ever after her recent reconciliation with former beau John Mayer, her publicist tells Usmagazine.com that the star is not pregnant.

There you have it.

Lucky Dog!
At a press conference Friday, President-elect Barack Obama announced that the new  First Family is planning on getting a dog--that is, if the new pooch meets two conditions. Obama's first stipulation is that the dog "has to be hypoallergenic," due to 10-year-old daughter Malia's allergies. Secondly, Obama declared, "Our preference would be to get a shelter dog." Does the family have any specific breed picked out? Nah. Obama joked that the family is just looking for "a mutt, like me."

And Then There Were None
Former Hugh Hefner squeeze, Kendra Wilkinson, has officially moved on from the Mansion. The bombshell recently became engaged to Philadelphia Eagles' Hank Baskett.

Hef confirmed speculation to media outlets last week. "Kendra Wilkinson has met someone who she would like to spend the rest of her life with," the Playboy mogul said. "I have given her my blessing and will be giving her away at a very special wedding ceremony at the Playboy Mansion this coming June."

Weird, no? Seems like quite the paternal thing to do, considering Hef is an ex-boyfriend. Wilkinson, the youngest of Hef's exes at 23, only recently confirmed she had split from the 82-year-old ladies man. "I want Hef to be happy," she has said. "That's all I care about."

Splitsville
Dark duo Evan Rachel Wood and Marilyn Manson have announced they're calling it quits. Wood tells People magazine, "Manson and I both decided to take some time apart so we could concentrate on work." Rumors had surfaced that the couple clashed over Wood's brother Ira--who had been living with the pair--being kicked out of the guesthouse by Manson. Wood also refutes claims of Manson's abusive nature saying, "Manson has...taken care of me through the best and worst times. I love him as a person and as an artist."

Election Day 2008!

2008-11-04T17:01:56Z

After months of debate, debauchery and media hysteria, Americans head to the polls to pick their next president.

The bitter battle comes down to the wire as Americans place their presidential votes on Election Day. Despite the often-brutal mudslinging, the 2008 electoral campaigns made historical strides that chipped away at a corroded system and infused passion back into the American people. This year's race also saw the union of politics and a societal tabloid-obsession. This week, the nominees upped their ante in a last ditch attempt to snatch any remaining undecided voters.

]]> Palin Prank
Sacrebleu! Canadian radio comics Marc-Antoine Audette and Sebastien Trudel struck gold this week when they aimed their famous prank phone call shtick at Alaska Governor Sarah Palin. The VP candidate was made to believe that she was receiving encouraging words from French President Nicolas Sarkozy.

"One of my favorite activities is to hunt, too," Audette cooed in a faux French accent. "I just love killing those animals!"

An animated Palin responded, "We should go hunting together. We can have a lot of fun together while we're getting work done. We could kill two birds with one stone."

"As long as we don't invite Vice President Cheney!" the phony prez joked.

Despite Audette's incitement for uncouth banter, Palin held her own during the hoax, repeatedly expressing her gratitude for the phone call. She courteously laughed off uncomfortable matters such as Audette's mention of pornographic spoof Nailin' Paylin. Even when the comedian compared Joe the Plumber to France's middle-class guy-next-door, "Marcel, the guy with bread under his armpit," Palin resisted the bait.

Audette told The Canadian Press, "We're proud to add [this prank] to our top hits."

McCain Is Funny
John McCain visited NBC's Saturday Night Live this weekend, following the likes of Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. The senator poked fun at his campaign, claiming that despite Obama's major network commercials, he and Sarah Palin "could only afford QVC."

During the "Weekend Update" with Seth Meyers, McCain told viewers about his "last-minute strategies," dubbing one of them, The Sad Grandpa. "That's where I get on TV and go, 'C'mon, Obama's gonna have plenty of chances to be president! It's my turn! Vote for me!'" joked the Arizona senator.

At a rally in Columbus, Ohio, Barack Obama voiced his approval, saying, "John McCain was funny yesterday... but that's part of what our politics should be about, being able to laugh at each other, but also laugh at ourselves."

The Hollywood Vote
Don't send that call to voicemail--it might just be an A-list celebrity!

Sarah Jessica Parker left little to the political imagination wearing pins emblazoned with Barack's image and a "Change" t-shirt to Obama's NYC headquarters on Thursday. The Sex and the City star joined volunteers in making calls to ambivalent voters at the Illinois senator's phone bank. Other stars expected to hit the lines? Matthew Broderick, Edie Falco and Uma Thurman--just to name a few.

The celebrity endorsement hardly stopped there. On Friday, Obama-enthusiast Oprah Winfrey announced that she voted Thursday in Chicago, thanks to Illinois' early-voting laws. Winfrey waited a full 72 minutes to vote, in an attempt to avoid Tuesday's masses. She explained, "I was worried...I have a live show."

In Other News
American Idol mainstay Simon Cowell confirms his split with longtime girlfriend Terri Seymour. Cowell's rep tells People magazine, "Terri...wants kids but that just isn't Simon." The couple dated for six years.

While departing L.A. hotspot Madeo Saturday night, Jessica Simpson's BFF Ken Paves was struck in the face with a camera. Paves was attempting to shield Simpson from the mass of paparazzi. Simpson immediately brought Paves to a nearby hospital.

Actor Ryan Reynolds--who recently tied the knot with actress Scarlett Johansson--completed the NYC Marathon in just 3 hours and 50 minutes on Sunday. Before his stint, Reynolds teased, "I'm not a runner. I'm a running joke!"

Tragedy Strikes Hollywood

2008-10-28T16:14:03Z

Dreamgirls star Jennifer Hudson returns to her hometown to mourn the brutal murder of her mother, brother and 7-year-old nephew.

Heartbreak for the Hudson Family

Academy Award-winner Jennifer Hudson is mourning the tragic loss of her mother, brother and nephew. Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson, and older brother, Jason Hudson, were found fatally shot inside their Southside Chicago home on Friday. Upon hearing the news, Hudson immediately rushed back to her hometown to be with her family and has issued a statement requesting privacy at this time. Police initially responded to a call reporting two people found unresponsive. The bodies are believed to have been discovered by a family member who lives nearby. ]]> Following the tragedy, an Amber Alert was issued for the search of Hudson's missing 7-year-old nephew, Julian King. Hudson immediately offered a $100K reward for the safe return of her nephew, who had been abducted from her mother's home.

In a drastic turn of events, Usmagazine.com reports that the body of a 7-year-old boy was discovered in the back seat of an abandoned white Chevy Suburban Monday on Monday morning. It was later confirmed by Chicago police that the body was identified as that of Julian King. (King's mother is Hudson's older sister, Julia.) According to the Chicago Tribune, about 100 friends and strangers gathered for a candlelight vigil of song and prayer Monday evening. Chicago police currently have William Balfour in custody, and he remains the focus of the investigation. Balfour is the estranged husband of Julian's mother, Julia.

The Hudson family has reached out via Jennifer Hudson's MySpace page. The family writes, "Thank you all for being there for us through this tough time." Presidential hopeful and fellow Chicago-native, Barack Obama, generously lends his support of the actress and her family. The Illinois senator says, "Michelle [Obama] and I were absolutely heartbroken to learn about this unimaginable tragedy and we want Jennifer to know that she is in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time."

Thoughts and prayers go out to Hudson and her family.

The Cuffs are Off

Hulk Hogan's son, Nicholas Bollea (better known as Nick Hogan), has been released from prison after serving 166 days of an eight month sentence for reckless driving. Hogan's media-friendly family has been more-than-vocal about their feelings on the matter. Sister Brooke Hogan blogged about her brother's homecoming, "I'm gonna make him every kind of food you can possibly think of! He's been living on bread and potatoes so far, and I know some Mac-n-Cheese is gonna hit the spot!" Mother Linda Bollea (currently estranged from ex Hulk Hogan) has released a statement saying, "This is our time as a family to come together to support Nick's adjustment back into the public life, keeping it as normal as possible...His focus is to make a positive difference in this world, media-free. Since his future actions will speak louder than any words, there is no need to speak to the media at this time." Ironic--as releasing a statement is technically considered as speech with the media.

Hogan's reckless driving sentence came as a result of an August 2007 street-racing crash that severely injured Bollea's friend, John Graziano, who now requires lifelong medical care due to the severity of his injuries. Hogan reportedly lost control of his father's Toyota Supra while street racing in Clearwater, Florida. The Graziano family has since sought legal action against the Hogans claiming negligence. The case has not yet reached a settlement.

Even the Strong Don't Survive!

2008-10-21T15:23:52Z

Despite a pair of failed marriages, one unlikely duo gives love another shot.

Another Two Bite The Dust

Two more Hollywood marriages go caput this week.

Madonna, 50, and director hubby Guy Ritchie, 40, are officially calling it quits after 7 ½ years of marriage. The couple -- who have three children, Lourdes (father is Carlos Leon), Rocco and adopted son, David Banda -- has been fielding media reports of their marital demise for several years. The gossip reached a climax with rumors of an extramarital affair between Madonna and New York Yankee ballplayer, Alex Rodriguez. Though it is unclear whether this relationship was the final breaking point of the union, the Queen of Pop and baseball's quintessential ladies' man are still in cahoots. According to reports, A-Rod was in-house for one of Madonna's NYC concerts at Madison Square Garden and he's been less-than-secretive about his palling around with Madge's infamous entourage.

]]> What's more? David Banda's father is speaking out against the rift. "I am still a poor farmer with nothing to offer," Yohane Banda told Britain's The Sun, "But maybe he'd be better off back with us." Reports say that Madonna has already been approved to proceed with a second Malawi adoption--which is what some sources say ultimately caused the singer to split from her husband. Apparently, Ritchie was not keen on expanding the family yet again.

David Duchovny and Tea Leoni have also decided to throw their vows to the wind after more than 10 years and two children together. The X Files star recently checked out of rehab after receiving treatment for sex addiction. Though such a confession would likely throw even the strongest couple through a loop, media speculated that the couple remained intact when the pair stepped out together at the Czech Street Festival in Manhattan. But, People.com has posted a the following public statement: "In light of continuous speculation over the lives and marriage of Tea Leoni and David Duchovny, the couple has confirmed that they have in fact been separated for several months. The couple had hoped to keep this separation private for the sake of their children." In a shocking twist, rumors have surfaced that it is Leoni who's to blame for the marriage's downfall. Sources say that the actress has been having an affair with Manure costar--and former Angelina Jolie flame--Billy Bob Thornton. Thornton's rep insists the two are just friends.

Recycled Romance

"It's over, I hate you. Just kidding. Let's get back together?" is what a conversation between John Mayer and Jennifer Aniston might have sounded like in the past week. The couple--who dated throughout the summer--has been seen dining out and displaying serious PDA in NYC and Boston. But why the reconciliation after such a nasty public breakup? Despite Mayer's dissing Aniston to a pack of paparazzi, several blogs claim that the crooner has been begging the A-lister to give him a second chance by writing her songs and setting aside his likeness for smoking and drinking. A source tells Usmagazine.com that Aniston simply "can't deny their major chemistry." Hopefully, this round doesn't end with a pseudo therapy session between Mayer and the photogs!

He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not

2008-10-16T15:15:41Z

While some A-list couples make a public proclamation of their stability, another Hollywood romance circles the drain.

'I Do' Times Two
She says her "Love Don't Cost a Thing," but her lavish weekend points to the contrary! Following an extravagant evening including a swanky dinner, rolling the dice, a Pussycat Dolls concert and bottle service at Pure nightclub, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony renewed their wedding vows with a Sunday morning ceremony in Sin City. The couple sought a minister around 3:30 AM and tied the knot a second time alongside New York Mets ballplayer Carlos Beltran and his wife Jessica on their Caesars Palace Penthouse balcony. Marc Anthony surprised his wife with a new set of marital-bling during the ceremony and capped off the Vegas occasion with a bottle of Dom Perignon Rose champagne. Lopez, who wore a black dress for the event, was relieved from diaper duty for the evening as the star's parents babysat twins, Max and Emme. Lopez and Anthony have been hitched for over four years.

]]> Private Photos
W Magazine features intimate portraits of Angelina Jolie in its November issue. The photos depict the A-list actress in the privacy of her South of France home and cover a span of just one week. But just how was the mag able to snag such an intimate meeting with the über private star? Well, they weren't. The star's equally famous partner, Brad Pitt, took all of the photos. The collection's most controversial image, a shot of Angelina breast-feeding one of her newborn twins, is featured on the issue's cover. But the scandalous image is considerably demure. The only evidence that Jolie is feeding is a glimpse at the tiny hand of one of the newborn twins peeking out of her robe.

Bad Bunnies
The ultimate Playboy is ready to strike again! Hugh Hefner's no. 1 girlfriend, Holly Madison, has announced that the couple is parting ways. According to Madison, the split is a result of failed attempts to have children and a response to Hef's repeated refusal to marry the Bunny. Hefner has explained, "We tried to have a baby earlier this year and it didn't work out. [Holly] became very depressed." In addition, Hefner is still legally married to Kimberly Conrad with whom he has two sons. Upon deciding to separate, the couple agreed to remain married for the sake of their children.

But what about Kendra Wilkinson and Bridget Marquardt, the remaining two Girls Next Door? Well, Bridget is currently in Europe filming her Travel Channel series "Bridget's Beaches," while Hef hints that Kendra may soon move out and get her own apartment. Even so, both blondes have been linked to new suitors, implying that girlfriends no. 2 and no. 3 have also moved on. It is also rumored that Wilkinson is engaged to the Philadelphia Eagles' Hank Baskett.

So, what's next for the 82-year old mogul who has been "down in the dumps" over his split with Madison? Well, he's not waiting around, that's for sure! Hefner has already replaced his top gal with 19-year-old live-in twins, Kristina and Karissa Shannon. And as for if there are more girlfriends to come, Hefner has said "I'm not going to live alone. I'm definitely not going to live alone."

Risque Reunion

2008-10-07T19:08:00Z

A-Rod and Madonna rendezvous in NYC, Howard Stern ties the knot and more.

Recession-Proof Romance

Madonna and Yankee ballplayer Alex Rodriguez made their first public outing last week at NYC eatery, Dos Caminos, since the reports surfaced of their alleged affair. The New York Post reports that the singer had A-Rod and another male companion erupting with laughter during the intimate meal. Wouldn't they more secretive if there were something to hide? Maybe. But later in the week, Rodriguez reportedly snuck in a visit with the Queen of Pop at her NYC abode. Though, it doesn't seem like he's settling down any time soon. The third baseman was spotted grabbing lunch with a beautiful brunette and dabbing his mouth with a hundred dollar bill. Recession, reshmession! When you've got A-Rod's millions, who cares about the failing economy!

]]> Dramz in the Hillz

We already know that the drama never ends in The Hills, but the rumors have been overflowing like a morning mug of vodka and orange juice in Brigitte Nielsen's house! This week, it's Lauren Conrad who has supposedly hooked up with former BFF, Audrina Patridge's longtime love, Justin Bobby.

Here's my question: Why would either anyone be interested in a guy who they met as "Bobby," only to be told that he prefers to be called "Justin," oh, you know, because he likes the name better (thus, the dawn of "Justin Bobby"). So, what if someone prefers the name Sparkles McGee? Can they automatically adopt the title Sparkles [insert legal name here] McGee? At any rate, Conrad shot back at the "rumors" on her MySpace page, saying, "Do they think I was swept away by [Justin Bobby]'s wonderful manners and his commitment to my friend? I love it when guys burp in my face. So hot!" Guess we'll just have to tune in to find out what happens next. So captivating!

Off the Market

The self-proclaimed "King of all Media" takes a queen! Shock jock, Howard Stern, finally tied the knot with longtime girlfriend Beth Ostrosky on Friday, October 3. The couple exchanged vows at NYC's posh Le Cirque restaurant. Billy Joel, John Stamos, Kelly Ripa--whose hubby Mark Consuelos recited the couple's vows--were just some of the many celebs at the star-studded soiree included. Ostrosky, a whopping 18 years Stern's junior, donned a Georgina Chapman-designed gown for the big day. "Howard is my dream come true...It's all in one 6'5 beautiful hunk of love," the blushing bride told Usmagazine.com earlier this year. Best of luck to the newlyweds!

Call Me Ma'

"I definitely want three or four [children]," Paris Hilton dished when she caught up with People magazine in Las Vegas this weekend. The famous heiress, who has spent a whole seven months with current beau, Benji Madden, plans to make it happen in "a year or two," though she insists there are no concrete plans for a wedding. Hmm. Thoughts?

Well, hey, if anything--it worked out for one-time heroin addict, Nicole Richie!

Inked Lady

All of the media outlets are reporting that Angelina Jolie has added two new tats to her left arm. No way! Everybody go crazy!

Excuse the confusion, but why is this news? Jolie's scrawny left arm has notoriously listed the latitude and longitudes of the entire Brangelina brood for years now. When Jolie split with Billy Bob Thornton, she removed the actor's name--plus the accompanying dragon graphic--that first inhabited the space and replaced it with the ever-growing list. So, sorry, but why the urgent bulletins? Because she was kind enough to include the twins in the Brangelina inventory? They are her kids, people!

Everything But the Kitchen Sink

2008-09-30T16:20:38Z

What didn't happen this week in Hollywood? With an icon's passing, one wedding, an arrest and two gay confessions, news was breaking left and right!

Just Married!
After a yearlong courtship, Scarlett Johansson and Ryan Reynolds made their love official this weekend in an intimate Vancouver wedding ceremony. UsMagazine.com reports that the ceremony took place at a remote wilderness resort among guests including Johansson's mother and brother. The actress first stepped out with a white diamond engagement-sparkler, estimated to have cost Reynolds about 30K, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute Gala in New York City on May 5.
]]> In an odd twist, the actress revealed to Allure in 2006, "I wouldn't say I'm a serial monogamist...I do think on some basic level we are animals, and by instinct we kind of breed accordingly." Hopefully, she'll keep those "animal instincts" at bay for Reynolds' sake!

A Sad Farewell
Oscar-winning actor Paul Newman surrendered to his long battle with cancer on Friday, September 26, at the age of 83. The Hollywood legend who passed away at his Connecticut farmhouse is survived by wife Joanne Woodward and daughters Susan, Stephanie, Elinor, Cleo and Lissy. Newman's daughters released a joint statement describing their late "intensely private" dad as a "...Devoted husband. Loving father. Adoring grandfather. Dedicated philanthropist...[and] rare symbol of selfless humility, the last to acknowledge what he was doing was special." In addition to his success as an actor, the Cool Hand Luke star has donated all profits from his Newman's Own food company (totaling over $250 million) to charitable organizations.

Locklear: Locked Up
Oh, Heather! On the evening of Saturday, September 27, a concerned citizen called 911 to report an erratic driver in Montecito, California. When officials arrived on the scene, the car was stopped in an active traffic lane and actress Heather Locklear was behind the wheel. The police officers found that Locklear disoriented and subsequently administered a line of tests to determine if she had been drinking. Ruling out alcohol as the cause of inebriation. The Melrose Place alum, who recently received four weeks of treatment for anxiety and depression at an Arizona facility, was booked at 7 PM on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance. Locklear was released later the same evening.

Richie Sambora, former husband of the famed sex symbol, was arrested earlier this year on a DUI charge. The Bon Jovi guitarist pled guilty to the charge and was sentenced to three years' probation and alcohol awareness classes.

Hey, at least Denise Richards had a good weekend!

Duh, I'm Gay
Last week's People magazine cover proclaimed the non-shocker news flash that American Idol finalist Clay Aiken is a homosexual. You don't say! Was the cover really aiming to shake up the Claynation with its "Yes, I'm Gay" headline? The masses have long been suspect of Aiken's sexual preferences--so no surprise there, to say the least. Aiken graced the cover with his newborn son, Parker, who was conceived via in vitro with the singer's best friend and music producer, Jaymes Foster. Aiken told the mag, "I cannot raise a child to lie or to hide things. I wasn't raised that way, and I'm not going to raise a child to do that."

It must be getting crowded in the closet. In similar news, last weekend, Lindsay Lohan revealed--surprise! -- What we already know. Lohan and gal pal, DJ Samantha Ronson, called in to L.A. radio program, Loveline, when host DJ Stryker seized the opportunity with a direct question. The disc jockey asked Lohan how long she's been dating Ronson, to which the actress responded, "A very long time!" Despite the couple's countless displays of public affection and ambiguous "I love you" messages via their MySpace sites, people seem to still be entertained by this vague admission. What's not surprising is that Lohan's PR squad is refuting the confession, claiming Linds was simply referring to the pair's friendship. Yea, okay!

Celebration and Tragedy

2008-09-23T16:16:01Z

Though the 60th Annual Emmy Awards presents Hollywood with a celebratory evening, the music industry is shaken up by a tragic plane crash.

Plane Crash Claims Victims
Blink 182 drummer, Travis Barker, and famed disc jockey, Adam Goldstein (best known as DJ AM), were critically injured in a South Carolina jet crash Friday night. The plane was en route to Van Nuys, Calif., following the duo's free concert in Columbia that evening.
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While AM and Barker suffered serious burn in juries in the accident, the remaining four passengers were hardly as fortunate. The crash claimed the lives of the remaining four passengers: pilots Sarah Lemmon, 31, and James, 52, Chris Baker (Barker's assistant), 29, and security guard Charles Still, 25. An eyewitness has recounted seeing AM and Barker exit the blazing aircraft with flames leaping from their bodies. According to reports, Goldstein has endured extensive burns to the face, while Barker's injuries are most severe from the waist down. The drummer's ex-wife, Shana Moakler, has rushed to be by his side in a Georgia hospital, while former girlfriend, Mandy Moore, joins Goldstein. While AM and Barker are expected to make full recoveries, thoughts and prayers are with them.

Emmy Upset
It's possible that the casts of Mad Men and 30 Rock stood solo in their excitement during the 60th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards. Viewers of the program have expressed less- than-impressed opinions of the presentation, to say the least. Julie Hinds of the Detroit Free Press reviews the experience, saying, "If they ever give an award for the telecast of 2008 that was the most flat, boring and strangely off-kilter, we may have a winner." The night's big winners were Mad Men, making history as the first-ever basic cable program to nab the honor for best drama, and 30 Rock, cleaning house with four awards. This year's program also debuted the best reality-show category, which was claimed by ratings dominator, The Amazing Race.

But it was the show's opening that has been blasted as the night's least entertaining moment. Hosts Ryan Seacrest, Tom Bergeron, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel and Jeff Probst introduced the program with little more than awkward banter. Yikes. So, five heads aren't better than one? Maybe Tim Goodman of the San Francisco Chronicle says it best. "The opening flopped, the middle sagged and the end was rushed. Not even Oprah could save it."

Bathroom Bust
George Michael definitely has a thing for bathrooms. The singer, 45, was busted in London restroom for possession of crack cocaine and marijuana. This is hardly a virgin run-in with the law for the singer--who was detained after being discovered passed out behind the wheel of his car in 2006 in possession of drugs. The singer released a statement, saying, "I want to apologize to my fans for screwing up again, and to promise them I'll sort myself out. And to say sorry to everybody else, just for boring them." After being taken in to a North London police station, Michaels was released with a warning, a notably lenient penalty. Wow. Some things never change.

Little Bits
The Hills' Audrina Patridge has officially moved out of the "pool house" she's been shacking up in--separate from Lo Bosworth and the series' star, Lauren Conrad, who were living in the actual house. Come on, MTV. As if she ever really lived there in the first place! ...In baseball-type news, Yankee all-star, Alex Rodriguez, and now ex-wife Cynthia have finally settled their divorce. According to the New York Post, the couple reached an "amicable" agreement. We bet. ...And Katie Holmes finally hit the Broadway stage in All My Sons on Saturday to a packed house. However, crowds outside the theatre were less than pleasant. A group of approximately 30 protestors gathered outside to protest Scientology, shouting "Scientology Kills!" Wonder what Xenu had to say about that!