Midnight Celebrity

Brooke Shields dons a white moustache in new ‘got milk?’ ad campaign

2008-03-06T05:29:00.001-08:00

Actress Brooke Shields has become the latest celebrity to don a white moustache in the 'got milk?' ad campaign.

The sexy 42-year-old is encouraging Americans to boost their calcium intake by posing in nothing but a black polo neck sweater and matching panties. Her long naked limbs are curled underneath her body.

Hair flowing and back straight, Shields sits next to a caption that says: "Busy Body. Actress, model, mother, health nut, spokesperson, role model.

"How does a busy mom get it all done? I exercise, eat right and drink milk.

"Studies suggest the nutrients in three glasses of low fat or fat free milk a day can help maintain a healthy weight.

"Plus the protein helps build muscle for a lean body. Done."

The mother of two is the latest in a long line of celebrities who has encouraged Americans to add "milk" their "diet."

Previous 'got milk?' models have included singers Beyonc? Knowles, Rihanna and Sheryl Crow and football player David Beckham.

Shields stars in the US comedy drama, Lipstick Jungle, which is said to be the new Sex and the City.

By Marissa Charles, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Bai Ling pleads guilty to disturbing the peace

2008-03-05T22:30:00.001-08:00

Chinese actress Bai Ling has plead guilty to disturbing the peace after being arrested on shoplifting charges at Los Angeles Airport.

The star was arrested February 13 on suspicion of stealing two magazines and a package of batteries from a gift shop.

Ling plead guilty to a lesser charge of disturbing the peace and was ordered to pay a $200 fine, according to Frank Mateljan of the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office.

Ling was detained by an employee of the gift shop inside a departures terminal before being arrested by the Los Angeles Police Department.

She was booked on suspicion of shoplifting three items that valued a total of $16. She was released the following day.

Born in China, Ling acted in a number of films before immigrating to the United States in 1991. Since then, she has appeared in numerous movies, including The Crow, Wild Wild West, and Anna and the King.

By Eric Munn, Mar 06 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Lindsay Lohan won’t be posing in Playboy

2008-03-05T21:36:00.003-08:00

Lindsay Lohan's mom Dina has denied reports the actress was approached by Playboy to pose naked in their magazine.

"That [offer] never happened," Dina tells Us Weekly. "That would be a no."

It was reported last month that Hefner wanted the starlet to appear in his famous publication recreating Monroe's famous naked swim from her 'Something's Got to Give' movie.

Lohan recently stripped off in a New York magazine shoot to pay homage to Monroe. The racy shoot proved so popular that the magazine's website crashed under the massive volume of hits.

Lohan, 21, paired with Monroe photographer Bert Stern to recreate the famous 1962 photo shoot of the blonde bombshell at the Bel Air hotel.

"Now we hear Lindsay is tempted to continue her nude homage to MM," Liz Smith said in the New York Post last month.

"Playboy's Hugh Hefner has offered the young star the chance to re-create Marilyn's famed nude swim from the unfinished film 'Something's Got To Give.'"

By Owen Williams, Mar 06 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Ashton Kutcher had a hard time warming up to Bruce Willis

2008-03-05T21:36:00.001-08:00

Ashton Kutcher says it was hard getting close Demi Moore's ex Bruce Wills - but revealed once he got past his ego, "it was a cakewalk".

"I just had to get over my ego, which was screaming, 'This guy used to sleep with your woman,'" Kutcher, 30, tells Harper’s Bazaar magazine in its April issue. "And I listened instead to the little voice inside that was whispering, 'This guy loves and cares about your woman.'

"Once I did that, it was a cakewalk," he adds.

As for his relationship with his stepchildren, Rumer, 19; Scout, 16; and Tallulah, 14, Kutcher says, "I am eternally grateful for having them in my life."

The fact that the kids say they love and admire him as much as their biological dad, "makes me want to cry and hug them and cry a little bit more," adds Kutcher, who recently celebrated his 30th birthday with a star-studded bash.

Moore, 45, says she is pleased Kutcher gets along with 'Armagedon' star Willis, 52.

"Look, I’m the product of divorced parents, and my brother and I were the pawns in my parents’ game," Moore says. "I never wanted that for my kids."

Even Tallulah - who appears with her mom in the magazine - weighs in on her mixed family.

"I love it," she says. "We are one big family. Late at night, after a long day, we can sit around and laugh with each other."

By Owen Williams, Mar 06 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Ashton Kutcher had a hard time warming up to Bruce Willis

2008-03-05T18:30:00.007-08:00

Nicolette Sheridan strips naked for charity

2008-03-05T18:30:00.005-08:00

Desperate Housewives star Nicolette Sheridan has stripped naked - for charity.

The stunning actress strips down for a new charity ad which also features real life fiance and singer Michael Bolton.

Bolton is seen wearing a huge London Fog trench coat which he has wrapped around Sheridan - although you can still see a glimpse of her naked backside.

The ad was shot for UK company London Fog to raise awareness and any proceeds from the charity campaign will be donated to The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, a camp in Ashford, Connecticut.

The camp was founded in 1988 by Hollywood legend Paul Newman and provides children with cancer and other serious illnesses a camping experience and extends year-round support to their families and health care providers.

The campaign was shot by Davis Factor and appears in April issues of US fashion magazines.

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Mary-Kate Olsen hooks-up with Italian playboy Lapo Elkann

2008-03-05T18:30:00.003-08:00

Only weeks after the death of her alleged secret boyfriend Heath Ledger, Mary-Kate Olsen has found herself a new man -- Italian playboy Lapo Elkann, another troubled drug abuser, according to reports.

Lapo Elkann -- a notorious Italian playboy who — with his wild hair, eccentric fashion sense and party lifestyle — strikes an eerie resemblance to the late Brokeback Mountain star.

Heath, 28, was found dead in his New York apartment in January, after accidentally overdosing on prescription drugs.

While in Paris for Fashion Week, Mary-Kate was seen flirting with Lapo, the heir to the $7.3 billion Fiat auto dynasty, who overdosed on cocaine and heroin at the home of a transsexual in 2005. Lapo, who now claims he has found sobriety through AA meetings in NYC, clung to life for three days in a coma before recovering.

"Mary-Kate and Lapo seemed very cozy" while sitting next to each other at the Giambattista Valli fashion show on Feb. 28, a source tells Star Magazine. "Lapo's a good-looking guy, and Mary-Kate seemed to love the attention she was getting from him."

Olsen, 21, and Lapo, 30, are certainly no strangers to each other. They have been linked many times together on the international party circuit.

"Perhaps, this time in Paris, they'll strike up a romance," adds the source.

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Kirsten Dunst finds love in rehab

2008-03-05T18:30:00.001-08:00

Hollywood babe Kirsten Dunst has reportedly found love while being treated in rehab.

The Spider-Man actress, 25, has been inseparable from her new man, who she met at the Cirque Lodge rehab facility.

Dunst's new beau has even been asking his mum to send flowers to Kirsten at the center on his behalf, according to America's InTouch magazine.

"The staff has asked the two to separate more than enough," an insider said.

"She sits on his lap while smoking cigarettes, they take walks together."

Party girl Lindsay Lohan, 21, also hooked up with snowboarder Riley Giles when she was at Utah's "most exclusive drug rehab facility".

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Lindsay Lohan won’t be posing in Playboy

2008-03-05T17:30:00.005-08:00

Bai Ling pleads guilty to disturbing the peace

2008-03-05T17:30:00.003-08:00

Jessica Alba craving ham and cheese sandwiches

2008-03-05T17:30:00.001-08:00

Pregnant actress Jessica Alba - who's currently touring Europe promoting her latest film 'The Eye', has revealed she's enjoying eating ham and cheese sandwiches -- and wishes she could get them back home in the states.

The actress -- who's pregnant with her first child with fiance Cash Warren, and plays the character of Sydney Wells in the horror-film -- posted this message on her official MySpace blog: "Hey guys, I am now in Europe promoting to "the eye." LAST TRIP!!!

"Went to the Lanvan show and the Rodin museum in Parisamazing.

"Also saw Amy Winehouse perform. She has such an incredible voice. She's definitely a throwbackreminiscent of Ella.

"I am currently getting my makeup done to go to the premiere of my movie. Can't wait to get home and rest. Every day I have eaten ham and cheese sandwiches, I cant get enough of them.

"Wish they had these back in the states, the bread is amazing. My tummy is getting bigger by the second and the little one must like the food too because it is moving and kicking like crazy.

"ITS THE BEST. Have to go but just wanted to check in. JA"

The Eye, directed by David Moreau and Xavier Palud, was released in the US last month, and is set to hit screens in the UK and Australia on March 13.

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Patrick Swayze’s rep confirms he’s suffering from pancreatic cancer

2008-03-05T16:30:00.007-08:00

Patrick Swayze is fighting pancreatic cancer, it was confirmed today.

The Dirty Dancing star is currently being treated by California doctors for the disease, the same one that killed Luciano Pavarotti.

"Actor Patrick Swayze has been diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer and is currently undergoing treatment," a statement from his representative read.

"Patrick is continuing his normal schedule during this time, which includes working on upcoming projects.

"The outpouring of support and concern he has already received from the public is deeply appreciated by Patrick and his family."

Swayze's doctors have also rejected claims in the National Enquirer magazine that the star has only five weeks to live.

"Patrick has a very limited amount of disease and he appears to be responding well to treatment thus far," Swayze's doctor, Dr. George Fisher, said.

"All of the reports stating the timeframe of his prognosis and his physical side effects are absolutely untrue. We are considerably more optimistic."

The Hollywood star was diagnosed with the condition in late January, and told that it has now spread to other organs.

Swayze, 55, has been receiving treatment from specialists at the Stanford University Medical School in California for the past month.

A distraught family insider earlier told the Enquirer that Swayze has been told he only has five to six weeks to live. "It was unbelievable. One day he's okay and the next he's going to die in a few weeks," the insider allegedly told the Enquirer.

Swayze and wife Lisa have flown their private plane to the nearby Palo Alto airport for regular treatment sessions.

The Enquirer claims that Swayze visited the Cancer Center on January 30, February 2, February 8, February 14 and February 22. Swayze received three chemo treatments during that period, and visited with his doctors twice.

The star's tumour allegedly shrank during the period of treatment, but doctors have told him to expect the worst, the Enquirer claims.

"He was told he could have two more treatments, but his cancer was not responding," the insider said. "In short, they held out little hope for a cure.

"Patrick's family and friends are so grief-stricken they can barely contain their tears and anger."

Swayze reportedly began showing symptoms of his illness back in December 2007, while he was shooting a pilot TV show in Chicago.

"Patrick began spitting up blood and was taken to the hospital," the insider added. "But it wasn't until early February that he spent the night at Stanford.

"His doctors realized the cancer had spread and only a new radical, cutting-edge treatment could possibly help.

"Lisa and Patrick would fly in from Los Angeles, he would have the treatment - that lasted about 3.5-hours - and then they were back in the plane and heading home."

By Graeme Massie, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Brooke Shields dons a white moustache in new ‘got milk?’ ad campaign

2008-03-05T16:30:00.005-08:00

Scarlett Johansson is moving in with Ryan Reynolds

2008-03-05T16:30:00.003-08:00

Scarlett Johansson is moving in with boyfriend Ryan Reynolds - and her mum is allegedly not happy about it.

The Hollywood star has been dating Reynolds for more than a year and recently moved her belongings into his Los Angeles home, the New York Daily News reports.

But Scarlett's mum, Melanie Sloan, is still not comfortable with the age difference between Scarlett, 23, and Reynolds, 31, the paper claims.

"Rumour has it that Scarlett Johansson is moving in with beau Ryan Reynolds, much to the ire of her mom," the Rush & Molloy column states.

"We hear the buxom blond shlepped her stuff into Reynolds' L.A pad, but Mama Johansson thinks that at just 23, her baby girl is too young to cohabitate with the 31-year-old Reynolds."

Representatives for Johansson did not return calls.

By Graeme Massie, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Manhattan eatery accused of videotaping P Diddy Hanging out with Sienna Miller

2008-03-05T16:30:00.001-08:00

A swanky Manhattan eatery has been accused of videotaping celebrities as they party in private back rooms.

Chinese restaurant Philippe has tapes of P Diddy hanging out with Sienna Miller and Gisele and Tom Brady getting friendly, according to U.S reports.

Employees at the restaurant screen the tapes once the celebs have left for the night, the New York Post claims.

"They've watched tape of Diddy and Sienna Miller hanging out and Tom Brady and Gisele hooking up," an insider told the Post.

"They get a kick out of it, they laugh and comment on people. Only a small circle of staffers there knows what's going on."

A representative for Philippe confirmed that there are cameras in the private rooms, but that they are security cameras keeping an eye on expensive wine collections.

"All tapes are deleted. It is completely and utterly false that anyone has access to view the videos at Philippe, which are maintained off-site at our corporate headquarters," representative Ronn Torossian said.

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Jessica Alba craving ham and cheese sandwiches

2008-03-05T15:30:00.005-08:00

Patrick Swayze diagnosed with pancreatic cancer; has five weeks to live

2008-03-05T15:30:00.003-08:00

Dirty Dancing star Patrick Swayze has five weeks to live, according to a shocking new report from the US.

The actor, 55, was reportedly diagnosed in late January with pancreatic cancer that has spread to other organs.

For the past month, the actor and dancer has been traveling to Stanford University's prestigious cancer center in Palo Alto for radical chemotherapy, but his doctors are no longer optimistic that the treatments will be successful, according to the National Enquirer.

Patrick and wife Lisa Niemi — who are both qualified pilots — have been flying their private Beechcraft plane into Palo Alto's airport, minutes away from the Stanford Cancer Center, where Swayze -- who has starred in films such as, Road House, Father Hood & Donnie Darko, has received outpatient treatment.

Swayze -- who has previously attended a clinic to overcome alcoholism after his sister Vicky died from an overdose of painkillers in 1994 -- received three doses of chemotherapy and the tumor shrank, but less than his doctors had hoped for — and Patrick was told he should prepare for the end.

"He was told he could have two more treatments, but his cancer was not responding. In short - they held out little hope for a cure," said an insider.

The man who danced into the hearts of audiences worldwide in his breakthrough role as the dance instructor in the 1987 film Dirty Dancing, and then broke them in the poignant love story Ghost in the early '90s, has reportedly lost more than 20 pounds in the past few weeks and is restricted to a liquid diet because he has trouble keeping down solid food, the insider told the Enquirer.

"It's time to start praying for a miracle."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Tom Cruise made ‘time stand still’ for Katie Holmes

2008-03-05T15:30:00.001-08:00

Actress Kate Holmes said 'time stood still' when she first set eyes on her now husband Tom Cruise.

The former Dawson's Creek star - who got engaged to Cruise in 2005 & married him the following year - says it was love at first sight when she first laid eyes on the Top Gun star.

She said: "It happened in an instant. When you fall in love, it's like time stops."

Katie - who also has a daughter, Suri, with Cruise - insists the couple have never been happier and are there for each other no matter what.

She said: "I try every day to make Tom know how much I love him. It gets better and better.

"Tom and I stay in really good communication with each other. I talk to him about anything, at any time. He works 48 hours straight, comes home, and if I ask, ‘Would you help me with this?’ he'll do it."

She also revealed how supportive Tom, 45, was when she gave birth to Suri in April 2006.

She added to InStyle magazine: "I couldn't have asked for a more supportive human being. He had the room ready, candles everywhere. It was very homey and beautiful."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt argue over wedding plans

2008-03-05T13:30:00.003-08:00

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's wedding plans have come to a grinding halt after the couple got into a screaming match over details of the ceremony, it has been claimed.

'Fight Club' star Pitt reportedly wants a big wedding in New Orleans, the town he has adopted in a bid to help get it back on its feet after Hurricane Katrina, while 'Tomb Raider' star Jolie says she would like a small, intimate ceremony in France - to honor her late mom Marcheline Bertrand.

And when 44-year-old Brad - who infamously divorced Jennifer Aniston in 2005 - told pregnant Jolie that he had asked his mother, Jane, to help with the arrangements, Angie hit the roof, sources claim.

"They ended up going to separate bedrooms and slamming doors. Angelina was so frustrated, she was crying," one friend of the couple tells Star magazine.

Jolie's main problem with Jane Pitt is her relationship with Aniston, and even suggested she should be on the guest list. "Brad tried to reassure Angie that she wouldn't show up," says the source. "Still Angie's furious. Anytime Jen's name is mentioned, she gets jealous."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Heidi Klum, Eva Longoria Parker attend Brooklyn Beckham’s birthday

2008-03-05T13:30:00.001-08:00

Victoria Beckham was left in charge of her eldest son Brooklyn's birthday on Tuesday -- and did a spectacular job by all accounts.

Victoria reportedly enlisted the help of her celebrity pals Heidi Klum and Eva Longoria Parker to celebrate Brooklyn's ninth birthday at Pink Taco in LA followed by a screening of the Spiderwick Chronicles.

The Spice Girl's husband David Beckham was in China with is LA Galaxy soccer team.

Last month, 33-year-old Victoria -- best known as 'Posh Spice' in The Spice Girls -- was a guest judge on Klum's Project Runway.

"She’s really great," Klum told Us Weekly. "She’s very opinionated about fashion, which I love. I like when someone says their peace about what they think instead of being wishy washy. I like her very much."

"We had a few guest judges and a lot of them would say things like, 'When is this thing over, I have to go,' and [Victoria] was no problem at all," Klum added. "She would say, 'however long it takes, that’s cool.' She was really great in that way."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Matthew McConaughey to launch his own surf clothing line

2008-03-05T12:30:00.001-08:00

Hollywood hunk Matthew McConaughey is set to launch his own surf clothing line, it has been revealed.

The sand-and-surf-loving star, 38, is reportedly developing his own line of swim apparel named j.k. livin, after his production company — and personal mantra — "Just keep livin'."

The range, which will be available via the actor's website this summer, will include T-shirts, swimsuits and Frisbees.

"It will be a one-stop shop for every-thing you need for the beach," a rep for the actor, whose girlfriend Camila Alves is due to give birth this summer, tells Us Weekly magazine.

"There’s a perception of me as a beach guy," McConaughey has said.

The news comes as McConaughey told Playboy: "My mom didn’t even put a bathing suit on us at the country club until we were 9."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Christina Aguilera posing for sexy ad campaign while pregnant

2008-03-05T11:30:00.001-08:00

Here is new mum Christina Aguilera hiding her baby bump in a sexy photoshoot during her pregnancy.

The pop star was four-months pregnant when she posed last August for the glamorous new advertising campaign for Stephen Webster jewelry.

"We shot it in August. I got a call from her when she was on her world tour in Korea, and she told me she was pregnant," Webster said. "We'd originally planned to shoot the campaign in October or November but we decided that the minute she got back from touring would be the best window of opportunity."

Aguilera was already showing her pregnancy with son Max Liron Bratman during the shoot, but it was kept hidden using clever angles.

"It was okay. The way we shot it, you wouldn't know. We weren't going for full-body shots."

By Graeme Massie, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Britney Spears dumped Adnan Ghalib after discovering texts from his estranged wife

2008-03-05T10:30:00.003-08:00

Britney Spears has dumped British paparazzo boyfriend Adnan Ghalib, according to U.S reports.

The fallen pop princess gave the Brummie snapper the boot after discovering texts on his phone from his estranged wife.

"She flipped out. He assured her he hadn't been responding, but she didn't care. She threw his phone outside," an insider told Life & Style magazine.

When Adnan, 35, confronted her, Spears reportedly 'slapped him on his chest and screamed for him to get out.'

Adnan fired back that Spears was 'crazy', at which point the troubled singer 'spat' on him, the magazine claims.

Since the big fight, which happened on February 27, Adnan has been spotted in L.A with his 'friend', the model Amanda Pagel.

But that has not stopped Ghalib from trying to reunite with Spears. "Adnan has been calling her and trying to make up. Britney is just not speaking to him," the insider told the magazine.

Spears has also notified the security team at the gates of her home in Century City, California, to keep Adnan away.

"She was definitely using Adnan for sex and isn't looking for another guy," the insider added. "She's okay with him being gone for now. Lynne and Jamie admit that Adnan probably isn't gone for good. He'll almost certainly be back."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Madonna and Guy Ritchie ‘lead largely separate lives’

2008-03-05T10:30:00.001-08:00

Pop superstar Madonna and her film director husband Guy Ritchie hardly ever see each other -- and lead largely separate lives, the singer's father-in-law has claimed.

John Ritchie, 79, said: "They are not spending any time together at the moment.'

He told Britain's Grazia magazine: "Madonna and the children are rushing around together like mad and Guy wants to stay in England."

And a family friend claims the less the couple see each other, the better.

The insider said Madonna, 49, spent years trailing Ritchie around his favorite pubs. But the pal said: "However, what Guy appreciates and respects most is space to do his own thing. The more she leaves him alone, the better they get on."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Britney Spears receives rave reviews as a children’s dance teacher

2008-03-05T09:30:00.003-08:00

Troubled pop princess Britney Spears headed back to the dance studio Tuesday -- to a teach a class of 15 children her favorite dance moves.

And the Toxic singer's mini pupils are singing the star's praises: "I like Britney," 5-year-old Elissa Bouganim, who has taken three classes with 26-year-old Britney enthuses to People magazine.

"Today, first we were dancing slow, and then faster and faster Then we did the fish-move and lots of other fun things," she adds.

Mother of two Britney has become a semi-regular instructor at the Millennium Dance Complex over the past few weeks – as she has settled into an uncharacteristically quiet routine overseen by her dad Jamie -- who has conservatorship over the troubled star.

"It's just amazing to watch Britney with the kids," says Elissa's mom, Pam. "Elissa won't stop dancing now, that's all she wants to do. Britney has really inspired her."

"Britney is nice," adds Elissa -- who would be be happy if Spears taught all her classes . "I want to dance with Britney all the time because it's so much fun."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Cruz Beckham steals Victoria’s limelight AGAIN

2008-03-05T09:30:00.001-08:00

Cruz Beckham stole the limelight from his mother AGAIN - by dressing as Batman to go to the cinema.

The three-year-old, who won the hearts of Spice Girls fans by break dancing on stage during their gigs, donned the fancy dress outfit for his brother Brooklyn's birthday.

Victoria, 33, looked chic in a black and red dress - but it was Cruz who stole the show in the fashion stakes with his cape, six pack and batman hat.

"Cruz is turning into the real star of the Beckham family," one onlooker said. "First the break dancing, now the Batman suit. Everyone wonders what he'll do next.

"It'll soon be him on the pages of the fashion magazines - not his Mom."

Victoria took her three sons to a cinema in Century City, Los Angeles, on Tuesday to celebrate Brooklyn's ninth birthday.

The family met Mel B's nine-year-old daughter Phoenix Chi at the theatre, who joined them for the celebrations.

While the birthday boy and five-year-old Romeo Beckham stuck to t-shirts, jeans and baseball caps, Cruz opted for the superhero look.

By Joanne Clements, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Britney Spears receives rave reviews as a children’s dance teacher

2008-03-05T08:30:00.003-08:00

Britney Spears continues to fuel pregnancy rumors

2008-03-05T08:30:00.001-08:00

Troubled pop princess Britney Spears is continuing to fuel pregnancy rumors - after she was spotted leaving a Los Angeles medical center with her dad Jamie yesterday.

The Toxic star has been sporing a more rounded stomach of late - and her latest outing has only served to add fuel to the fire.

Rumors that Spears, 26, was expecting her third child, arose after Birmingham-raised photographer Adnan Ghalib reportedly bragged to friends that Britney has "a baby Brummie in her tummy".

But Ghalib's relationship with the pop wreck is believed to already be in tatters after the fallen pop idol found a string of text messages from other women on his phone, it was claimed earlier this week.

Convinced he was cheating on her, Britney grabbed Ghalib's $600 iPhone and hurled into her swimming pool after a blazing row.

Insiders claim that Spears confronted Adnan after two video clips showing him out with mystery girls were posted on various gossip blogs. In one tape, Adnan was seen briefly holding hands with a mystery woman as they left a restaurant.

A furious Spears then checked his phone - and saw the saucy text.

A source said: "There were about a dozen from one girl, all sent on one day.

"They were pretty saucy stuff with sexual references — certainly not the sort you’d send to just a friend.

"Britney lost it and started yelling.

"She was demanding to know who sent the texts and shouting, ‘What’s this about? You’re cheating on me'.

"Adnan said the girl was just a friend, but Britney got more and more angry. Then she told him, 'That’s it. It's over'.

"Just before she told Adnan to go, she took the phone and threw it in the pool right in front of him. He didn’t even bother trying to get it out of the water."

Britney, who has only just regained visitation rights to her children Sean Preston, two, and Jayden James, 17 months, was spotted holding a pregnancy test in a chemist's shop in January.

If the rumors are true, it'll no doubt be a huge blow for Britney's parents, Jamie and Lynne, who are desperate for their daughter to pull her life together.

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Mariah Carey tells Britney Spears never to give up on her pop career

2008-03-05T07:30:00.007-08:00

Pop diva Mariah Carey has told troubled singer Britney Spears never to give up on her pop career.

Carey, 37, hopes her own renaissance can inspire a comeback by the 26-year-old Toxic star.

Mariah said: "I never count people out – that’s just not in my nature."

Carey's new album E=MC2 is released next month.

Meanwhile, it has been claimed that Britney - who's currently under the conservatorship of her dad Jamie - is in danger of losing her millions within four years - if she does not curb her urge to spend.

Britney - who was previously said to be worth $100million - now has an estimated bank balance of $40million due to shopping sprees, holidays and partying.

This sharp decline in her once vast wealth is also reportedly due to spending huge chunks of her savings on houses and cars.

A source said: "She was very wide-eyed and attentive but she's as addicted to buying houses and new Mercedes as she is to the attention of the paparazzi.

"There was a moment when her mother said she could be out of money within four years and her children would still be in primary school."

"That was when she really sat up and took notice."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Owen Wilson and Kate Hudson hook up for two consecutive nights in Miami

2008-03-05T07:30:00.005-08:00

Owen Wilson and Kate Hudson's on-off love affair looks to be very much on again after they hooked up on two consecutive nights in Miami.

The couple rekindled their romance on Sunday evening during a secret rendezvous at a multi-million dollar Miami mansion

And on Monday night, they went public for the first time since their split seven months ago, joining fellow stars Jennifer Aniston and Eric Dane for a dinner on the terrace at the award-winning terrace restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental hotel, on Biscayne Bay.

The couple arrived separately and joined Anniston and Grey's Anatomy's Dr McSteamy, who had earlier been seen laughing and joking while having a drink at a table that had been reserved for them in the hotel bar.

Wilson, Aniston and Dane have all been signed up to star in the movie, Marley and Me, which is about to start filming in Miami.

"Owen and Kate didn't sit together but it was obvious to everyone that she was only there because of him," said one observer. "They sat at a table with Jen and Eric and four other people and they were all overheard talking about the new movie. There was lots of laughter and everyone was in good spirits.

"Kate looked amazing and Owen couldn't keep his eyes off her all night."

Former Friends' star Aniston, looking stunning in figure-hugging jeans and a black chiffon top, had flown in earlier that day on a private jet from Los Angeles.

Wilson and Hudson, 28, daughter of ac tress Goldie Hawn, arrived in Florida on Saturday, booking into beach-front hotels a block away from each other in trendy South Beach. They were both spotted partying separately on Saturday night.

Hudson - in town to promote her directorial debut, the short film Cutlass, at the Miami International Film Festival - joined Demi Moore and Marisa Tomei for a girls' night out, while Wilson had dinner and drinks with a male friend at Nobu restaurant.

It is thought she may well have met up with Owen before the end of the night, although it was away from prying eyes on South Beach's party circuit. But on Sunday they were finally found out.

After going for a jog on the beach, Wilson was seen leaving the Shore Club at around 5pm, wearing shorts, a t-shirt and a red cap. He was charming as ever with hotel staff, handing one of the awed employees his towel as a gift. He then jumped into a red Prius with a friend, but when they noticed they had been spotted, repeatedly attempted to lose anyone who may have been following.

But despite a number of sudden turns and U-turns, he was tracked down to a 10-bedroom, 10-bathroom, $9m mansion in Miami Beach's luxurious Star Island. Soon afterwards, at around 7pm, none other than Hudson herself showed up at the address, which sits on 40,000 sq ft.

Her chauffeur had driven around the block of her hotel, the Raleigh, several times in attempts to confuse photographers before setting off. But the silver Infinity SUV was followed to the stunning home, where Hudson and three young children were seen getting out and going inside.

The mother of one had earlier in the day taken son Ryder, four, and two other children of similar age onto the beach, before leaving then under the care of a nanny when she went on to the premiere of her film.

During the afternoon, her nose had been put firmly out of joint by staff at the $800 a night Raleigh hotel, who asked her to move from some sun-loungers because they were "reserved" for other guests.

The Oscar nominated actress went into a huff and grabbed another worker to query it.

But any sulk soon wore off as Hudson - daughter of movie star Goldie Hawn - threw caution to the wind with a breezy bike ride along the beach and busy Collins Avenue. She giggled with her girlfriend as they tried to avoid photographers.

Hudson also scotched rumors of a pregnancy during her stay, showing off an impressive flat stomach in a tiny red bikini poolside.

By Samantha Lawton, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Lily Allen ‘feels sorry’ for Cheryl Cole

2008-03-05T07:30:00.003-08:00

Lily Allen has revealed she no longer hates Cheryl Cole but actually feels sorry for her.

The outspoken TV presenter, who once branded the Girls Aloud singer a 'bitch', said the reason she hated her so much was because Cheryl was so attractive.

"A couple of years ago if I had read the stuff about Cheryl Cole, about Ashley cheating on her, I probably would have had a little laugh to myself," she said. "But now I actually feel really sorry for her."

And after admitting Cheryl Cole is beautiful, she said: "That's why I hated her so much. I've seen her in real life but I haven't spoken to her because she'd probably punch me."

The girls' slanging match hit the headlines last year when furious Lily said Cheryl was a 'stupid bitch' after the geordie singer called her a 'chick with a d*ck'. But now Lily has revealed she doesn't hate Cheryl any more because she has become a nicer woman.

"I've changed, I'm not a nasty person any more. I think I was deeply unhappy before and that's why I was so mean to people before, but now I'm a happy lady," she said.

Speaking on her evening chat show, Lily, 22, then admitted she had to make an emergency toilet break during a gig in Toronto.

"I knew I needed to do a poo whilst on stage," she revealed. "I got to the end of the set but it was before the encore and I ran off and went upstairs and I sat on the toilet and it wouldn't stop.

"I could hear the crowd going 'Lily, Lily' and I was sitting there like 'come on finish please' it was the most hellish experience I've ever had."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Natalie Portman may run for office when she gets “too ugly” for Hollywood

2008-03-05T07:30:00.001-08:00

Natalie Portman has said she may run for office when she gets "too ugly" for Hollywood.

The Star Wars actress said she would consider going into politics if she stops making movies.

She said: "It's not a bad idea. I'm not going to be getting parts in the next five to 10 years - I'll be over the hill. [Laughs.]

"Maybe I can go into politics once I'm too ugly for Hollywood."

Portman, 26, can currently be seen on screen opposite Scarlett Johansson in historical drama, The Other Boleyn Girl.

The Israeli-born star also said she felt sorry for Tinseltown's young starlets, whose names are constantly making the headlines.

She told US magazine Time: "You're never going to change the fact that it's hard for some people to deal with their lives, but you can change your reaction.

"Give them their space and privacy. The worst thing about our society is that it revels in people's difficult times."

And asked if she thought celebrities should use their stardom to influence voters, she replied: "Sure. People can listen to a host of influences and still make their own decisions.

"I'm always interested to hear who the people I respect are voting for."

By Gavin Wilson, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Manhattan eatery accused of videotaping P Diddy Hanging out with Sienna Miller

2008-03-05T06:30:00.003-08:00

Salma Hayek: “I wanted a boy”

2008-03-05T06:30:00.001-08:00

New mum Salma Hayek adores her six-month-old daughter Valentina - but admits she had hoped for a baby boy.

Valentina was the first child for the stunning Hollywood actress, who is dating French businessman Francois-Henri Pinault.

"I have something to confess, I wanted a boy," Hayek, 41, told Glamour magazine. "Probably because I was afraid. I think women suffer a bit more than boys, and there is always conflict between mothers and daughters.

"But now that she's here, I'm so happy she's a girl.

"And I can't imagine there ever being conflict between us, because I'm in a state of innocence where I love everything she does."

By Graeme Massie, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Janet Jackson appears on Jimmy Kimmel Live

2008-03-05T05:30:00.003-08:00

Janet Jackson showed her fans 'The Way Love Goes' when she appeared on a US chat show.

The 41-year-old singer repeatedly made her hands into a heart sign, every time the audience cheered for her when she appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live. And when asked by the host whether she had a nickname for her loyal supporters, she came up with the imaginative title "Janet fans".

Jackson, the sister of singer Michael Jackson, appeared on the Jimmy Kimmel show to promote her 10th studio album 'Discipline'.

The songstress, joking told the chat show host she was "f***ing Ben Affleck" - a reference to his hilarious star-studded song, which has been getting hit after hit on You Tube.

"I wanted to tell you something but I didn't know how long I was going to sit with you," she said. "I thought it might upset you a little bit, but I felt the need to really tell you this: I'm f**king Ben Affleck."

"Well, everybody should get a turn with him. He is the best," Kimmel quipped back as the audience roared with laughter.

Jackson, who has eight brothers and sisters, also confessed she has lost count of how many nieces and nephews she has

"Honestly, I don't know," she laughed. "That's awful - I've got great nieces and nephews."

She told Kimmel she does buy Christmas presents for them all - but only until they hit 13-years-old.

"I will give a Christmas present to my nieces and nephews - but there's a cut off age - 13," she said. "I had to do something. When you hit 13 you do not get a thing."

By Joanne Clements, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Paris Hilton’s “fake Guru” stars alongside Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean

2008-03-05T05:30:00.001-08:00

Here is Paris Hilton's "fake Guru" on the big screen - as a scurvy seadog battling Johnny Depp in 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl'.

Hollywood actor Maxie Santillan - the shamen who supposedly changed Paris's life - appears in the movie blockbuster as a member of villain Barbossa's ghostly crew. And he knows a lot more about being in front of the cameras than giving spiritual advice.

The 52-year-old's string of TV credits include hit comedy 'My Name Is Earl', where he appeared as tramp Sparky. In one episode he shocks Earl (Jason Lee) and his then-wife Joy (Jamie Pressly) by taking over their caravan.

He only agrees to leave after Earl gives him a hug and Joy hands over her high heels.

According to film website imdb.com, he was last seen in 'Mutant Vampire Zombies for the 'Hood!' and he has three more films in post-production.

Long-haired Maxie says on his MySpace page: "My looks use (sic) to get me in troubleand now my looks are making me money."

His favourite film is "any movie I have been in" and his heroes are "Me, Myself and I".

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Daniel Radcliffe being protected by four ex-SAS bodyguards

2008-03-05T04:30:00.003-08:00

Harry Potter pin-up Daniel Radcliffe is being protected by four ex-SAS bodyguards after receiving a horrifying death threat from a stalker, it has been claimed.

The actor, 18, was so shaken up by the threat -- he switched cars three times on Saturday night during filming of the seventh and final installment of the Potter franchise, The Deathly Hallows.

And his regular driver -- used by the star for seven years and considered "part of the family" -- has been suspended until further notice.

The nature of the threat, received via Warner Bros, is unclear - but it is being treated seriously.

A source said: "There is a real concern for Daniel’s welfare. The bigwigs haven’t said what has been going on. It’s all hush-hush — but security has been massively ramped up."

According to British newspaper The Sun, the protection Daniel is receiving is similar to that given to princes William and Harry when they are not on military duty. Daniel has also been given a "chase car" -- which follows the vehicle in which he is traveling in case of emergency.

The weekend car switches took place during night-time location filming in Farnham, Surrey.

The source said of the SAS guards: "They are all experts in evasive driving, threat assessment and close protection. This isn’t about keeping an eye out for the paparazzi — these guys are looking for something far more sinister.

"Daniel has the four guards with him at all times, as well as a new driver. When he travels they use dummy cars and swap vehicles."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Arnold Schwarzenegger accused of snubbing body-building fans

2008-03-05T04:30:00.001-08:00

Arnold Schwarzenegger has been accused of snubbing body-building fans who waited hours to see their idol at a convention named after the movie star.

The former Mr Universe was in Columbus, Ohio over the weekend for the Arnold Sports Festival 2008. But fans complained that he didn't have any time time for them.

The New York Post reports: "As Schwarzenegger was exiting the Hyatt [hotel] early Sunday morning, he had several goons run ahead of him screaming at hotel customers trying to get to the airport, 'Get back against the wall! Stay against the wall! Do not move!'

"When Schwarzenegger appeared, flanked by men in black suits, one fan broke free and begged for a photo, saying, 'Every year I try and get a picture, please? You're my idol.'

"Schwarzenegger didn't even make eye contact as he swept by."

The festival - also known as the Arnold Classic - is considered the most lucrative competition in bodybuilding.

Schwarzenegger, 60, is now the governor of California. He was unavailable for comment today.

By Gavin Wilson, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Daniel Craig to marry girlfriend

2008-03-05T01:30:00.003-08:00

James Bond hunk Daniel Craig is set to marry his film producer girlfriend Satsuki Mitchell, it has been revealed.

The happy couple reportedly plan to marry when Daniel, 40, finishes filming the latest Bond flick, Quantum of Solace.

A source said that Satsuki, 29, visits the sexy actor on the set in Panama every day.

"Daniel and Satsuki are so loved-up. He asked her to marry him and she’s been showing off a very beautiful Cartier ring," said the source.

"It has a large diamond solitaire with a platinum setting."

The pair met on set of the 2005 movie The Jacket, where Daniel had a supporting role, starring alongside Keira Knightley and Adrien Brody.

Their relationship hit the rocks later the same year, when Daniel reportedly had a fling with his Layer Cake co-star Sienna Miller.

But the source insists the couple are stronger than ever, telling British newspaper The Sun: "Daniel and Satsuki are now stronger than ever. They’re planning an intimate ceremony for close family and friends. They make a great couple."

Daniel has a daughter, Ella, from his first wife, actress Fiona Louson. The marriage ended in 1994.

Craig's spokesman last night refused to comment on the forthcoming nuptials.

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Lily Allen vows to turn her back on her wild ways

2008-03-05T01:30:00.001-08:00

Pint-sized pop princess Lily Allen has vowed to turn her back on her wild ways after tragically losing her baby at the start of the year.

The 22-year-old 'Smile' singer - who suffered a miscarriage in January and split from the father, Chemical Brothers star Ed Simons, shortly after - revealed that the heartache has changed her opinion on partying.

She said: "When I was pregnant I stopped drinking and I didn't start again. Then when the baby was gone, I thought, 'That doesn't mean I'm going to go back to how I was.' "
Lily - the daughter of British actor actor Keith Allen - has decided the best way to avoid temptation is to spend her evenings at home.

She added to Britain’s Glamour magazine: "I've been sad and quite lonely recently because if you're young, living in London and working in this industry, unless you drink and take a lot of drugs, there's not much to do.

"I've been sitting on my own watching TV. It's boring to go out if everyone else if taking cocaine and shouting at me."

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Nicole Richie hates her ’slutty’ boobs

2008-03-04T23:30:00.003-08:00

New mom Nicole Richie says she's uncomfortable with her post-baby curves -- and hates her 'slutty' boobs.

The 26-year-old adopted daughter of legendary soul singer Lionel Richie -- who gave birth to her first child, Harlow, on January 11, told OK! magazine: "I am bustier now and I really don't like it.

"He [Joel] likes it! It doesn't really fit with my wardrobe, it's not who I am. I am not someone who is used to wearing a bra or having to wear a bra, I really don't like it.

"I like wearing vintage hippy see-through shirts that aren't slutty on me because there is nothing to look at. Now I have boobs so I can't really wear it because it sends out a different message."

The former reality TV star also revealed she got carried away when she was breastfeeding for the first time.

She said: "They put her right on my chest after the birth and I breastfed her. I didn't know anything about breastfeeding so I fed her for about 35 minutes on one side! The doctor was like: 'You should probably switch sides.'

"After I was feeding her, I remember saying to Joel, 'I need food. Get me apples.'"

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Angelina Jolie steams up the screen with James McAvoy

2008-03-04T23:30:00.001-08:00

Sexy Angelina Jolie steams up the screen with Brit star James McAvoy in their new movie Wanted.

The couple passionately lock lips and before both stripping off for the action thriller, due to be released later this year.

Tomb Raider star Jolie proudly displays all her real life tattoos across her back in one sexy scene while McAvoy is seen naked in a bathtub in another scene.

Jolie, who in real life is pregnant, plays an assassin in the film which sees her coaching McAvoy in how to become a trained killer, ready to seek revenge for his father's death.

The movie is adapted from the comic book, Wanted by Mark Miller and is set to be released in June.

By Nicola Pittam, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Lindsay Lohan ‘back on track’

2008-03-04T22:30:00.005-08:00

Actress Lindsay Lohan has revealed that her last few years of turmoil - including car accidents, and multiple stints in rehab, have made her more focused on acting and singing than ever.

"My life was distracted by certain things and that got in the way of work," Lohan, 21, tells People magazine. "But now I'm back on track and figuring out what's next."

Speaking at the Paper Magazine and Diesel luncheon - where she is celebrating this month's cover story, Lindsay was accompanied by her DJ pal Samantha Ronson and Jeremy Scott, who added: "Lindsay and I have been talking about doing a shoot together for some time and we hadn't had the chance," said Scott, who shot the cover of this month's publication, featuring Lohan declaring "I am what I am".

"Everyone always shoots her in a very generic [way]. So we took her and put her on a set and let her act," he adds. "She's an actress for God sakes, and sometimes people forget that."

The 'Mean Girls' star is gearing up to start shooting the comedy Ye Olde Times with Jack Black and David Arquette. Plus, there's another album in the works.

But at the moment, Lohan is "recording right now [with] Motown and being in the studio again has been really great," she said of her "dance, hip-hop and R&B album," gushing, "It's all coming together."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Lily Allen blames the paparazzi for damaging her car

2008-03-04T22:30:00.003-08:00

Lily Allen was partying in London last night -- and came out of the club to find the window on her flash new BMW had been smashed -- and blamed the whole incident on the paparazzi.

The 'Smile' star wrote on her MySpace blog earlier today: "If you see photos in the press or online of my car window being 'smashed by vandals', I just want you to know that it was one of the many paparazzi who were following us who did it.

"There were so many of them hassling us that it is difficult to say which one of them did it, but I had to leap in a taxi to get away from them, my friend Emily had to get into the car which was covered in broken glass and drive it away.

"It was a scary situation and I want people to know that it was totally their fault and that the whole situation has angered and upset me.

"Emily got cut from sitting on the broken glass and we are both horrified that people could behave in this way and get away with it."

Meanwhile, the 22-year-old singer has revealed that if you're young in London -- it's boring unless you drink loads and do drugs.

She said: "If you're young, living in London and working in this industry, unless you drink and take a lot of drugs, there's not much to do. It's boring to go out if everyone else if taking cocaine and shouting at me."

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Bizarre stilettos without heels wow stars like Victoria Beckham

2008-03-04T22:30:00.001-08:00

Shoe got to be kidding me!!!!!

Here are the gravity-defying shoes that have become a favourite with stars like Victoria Beckham, Gwyneth Paltrow and Uma Thurman.

The stunning Antonio Berardi stilettos stand 5.5-inches tall - except bizarrely they come without any heel. Instead its glamorous owners have to balance all their weight on a thickened platform sole.

Posh Spice has reportedly shelled out $3,600 for a pair in swanky snakeskin, while Gwyneth and Uma spent $2,700 on the black patent leather version.

A spokesman for Berardi's Paris-based fashion house said: "The shoe has a bigger platform sole which stretches back further than normal and gives support under the arch of the foot.

"When walking though, you have to put your toe rather than your heel down first and you cannot wear them for very long.

"They are not dangerous because you would have to lean quite far back before you fell over."

By Graeme Massie, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Lily Allen receiving treatment for depression

2008-03-04T21:30:00.001-08:00

Pint-sized pop princess Lily Allen is receiving treatment for severe depression, it has been claimed.

The singer -- who is seeking the treatment at a top private clinic -- hit rock bottom after suffering a miscarriage in January -- and splitting with the baby's father, Chemical Brothers star Ed Simons shortly after.

The heartbroken star, 22, is reportedly being treated at a residential clinic, but is allowed out to see pals and to film her BBC3 chat show, Lily Allen and Friends.

A source close to Lily said last night: "The last couple of months have been really hard for Lily.

"She was so happy to be pregnant and was willing to give up her showbiz life to settle down and have a family.

"Her miscarriage was a huge blow and she hasn’t really recovered.

"She has tried to put on a brave face but she found she needed to get some professional help."

Lily recently canceled her performance at the Isle of Wight Festival in June, and is also likely to delay the release date for her forthcoming second album.

The source added to British newspaper The Sun: "She really believed she and Ed were perfect together so she was devastated when they broke up.

"But she is responding well to treatment and is pleased that she is being allowed out to film her TV show and to keep in touch with the friends supporting her."

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Angelina Jolie steams up the screen with James McAvoy

2008-03-04T19:30:00.003-08:00

Steve-O leaves jail after spending a night behind bars

2008-03-04T19:30:00.001-08:00

Jackass star Steve-O left jail today after spending a night behind bars - and boasted he had stolen a sheet from his cell.

The London-born TV joker was held for more than 30 hours over alleged vandalism, with family and friends failing to pay his $20,000 bail.

Wildman Steve-O claimed the reason he was locked up for so long was so his family could stage an intervention. But it didn't appear to have worked as he proudly emerged from Hollywood station with the sheet.

According to reports Steve-O - real name Stephen Glover - was allowed to take the sheet to cover up because he was not wearing a shirt when he was arrested.

Steve-O was arrested at 5am on Monday morning for allegedly punching holes in a wall at his apartment building. He had boasted on his website about a bitter dispute with a neighbour.

A neighbour is believed to have made a citizen's arrest over the incident.

Steve-O claimed he was just "clearing out an apartment" for a friend.

By Iain Burchell, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Amy Winehouse stubbed out a cigarette on her face

2008-03-04T18:30:00.003-08:00

Troubled singer Amy Winehouse stubbed out a cigarette on her cheek -- which is likely the reason she has been sporting a rather nasty mark on her face this past week, it has been revealed.

The singer, 24, carried out the bizarre self-harming scene at a posh London restaurant -- in front of an army of stunned diners.

Amy was reportedly eating out with a group of pals when staff at the eatery asked her three time to put out her Marlboro Light because of the smoking ban.

As she received her final warning, Amy stared straight into the waitress' eyes and pushed the burning cigarette end into her own face.

A fellow diner said: "She hardly flinched because she was so high. The whole place was open-mouthed in horror."

The soul diva -- who bagged a whopping five Grammys at last month's prestigious awards -- tried to conceal the wound with foundation — but it has now apparently become infected, causing the swelling on her cheek.

The source added to British newspaper The Sun: "She was so out of it that she didn’t feel the pain — everyone else looked completely stunned.

"The waitress covered her mouth in shock and just walked off to tell the manager. It was a shocking sight."

Amy's rep claimed at the weekend that she was suffering impetigo -- a highly contagious skin disease -- explaining the rash on her left cheek.

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Simon Cowell to turn Paul Potts’ rags to riches life into a Hollywood movie

2008-03-04T18:30:00.001-08:00

Simon Cowell is turning opera sensation Paul Potts' rags to riches life into a Hollywood movie.

The American Idol judge will produce the film on former mobile phone salesman PavaPotty's rise to fame.

Potts, 37, wowed 'Britain's Got Talent' fans in 2007 as he sung his way to the title.

He beat Damon Scott, a ventriloquist who performs with a monkey puppet, for the top prize and a place in the Royal Variety Performance.

Cowell has admitted he was stunned by Potts' performance on the UK reality TV show.

"That particular day was one of the worst, the acts were just terrible, we were fed up and on comes this guy with a funny little suit and bad teeth who looked very nervous," Cowell told Daily Variety magazine.

"I can remember looking at the other judges, with that 'here we go again' feeling.

"We had 2,000 people in the audience, and I'll never forget how much the room changed when he began singing."

Cowell approached Paramount Pictures about the movie project, and they signed on after seeing clips of Potts on YouTube.

"Most of these calls result in absolutely nothing, but this company got that it's another 'Billy Elliot,' a story anyone in the world can understand," Cowell said. "This was his last chance, and he literally decided to enter based on the toss of a coin.

"And despite his success off the back of the show, the only difference I see in him is that he got his teeth fixed."

By Graeme Massie, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Paris Hilton to guest star in My Name Is Earl

2008-03-04T17:30:00.005-08:00

Paris Hilton is set set to guest star in hit TV show My Name Is Earl -- as herself, it has been revealed.

The 27-year-old socialite -- whose film The Hottie and the Nottie bombed at the box office, taking a dire $9,000 in its opening weekend last month -- will star in the hour long episode titled "I Won't Die with a Little Help From My Friends," where she will portray herself in a dream sequence of Earl's (Jason Lee).

The episode airs April 3, the first post-strike show for the sitcom.

"When we wrote the role of 'Paris Hilton' in the script, we weren't exactly sure who to go with for the role," series creator Greg Garcia says. "But after an exhausting search we finally settled on a relatively unknown actress by the name of Paris Hilton. I can't wait to see what she does with the role, and I can't wait for America to discover her."

Paris' next big-screen effort, Repo: The Genetic Opera opens April 25, but the hotel heiress is no stranger to the small screen -- having previously starred on The Simple Life and guested on American Dreams, The O.C., Veronica Mars and Las Vegas.

By Owen Williams, Mar 05 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Dannielynn declared Anna Nicole Smith’s sole heir

2008-03-04T17:30:00.003-08:00

Tragic Anna Nicole Smith's 18-month-old daughter Dannielynn has been declared the sole heir to her estate.

Anna Nicole's lawyer lover Howard K. Stern turned to the courts to clarify the ex-Playboy model's final wishes as her will was written in 2001, five years before Dannielynn was born.

An LA judge also established a trust in Danielynn's name and named Stern and her father Larry Birkhead as co-trustees.

Little Dannielynn could stand to inherit millions from the fortune of her mum's late husband J. Howard Marshall.

But today's ruling will not affect the heated court battle over the billionaire's cash.

Marshall left much of his fortune to Anna Nicole in his will, but his family is contesting it.

Stern's lawyer Bruce S. Ross said after the hearing at Los Angeles Superior Court: "We and Mr Stern always believed that Anna Nicole never intended to disinherit her daughter.

"I'm pleased to say this chapter in the saga is closed."

Anna Nicole died in Florida in February 2007 of an accidental overdose of prescription drugs. She was 39.

When her will was drafted she had one child, son Daniel, who died aged 20 three days after Dannielynn was born.

The will states that "although she did not expect to have any children in the future, if she did, she wanted them to share equally in the trust created for Daniel"

Anna Nicole did not update her will in the five months between Daniel's death, Dannielynn's birth and her own death, according to a petition lodged with the court by Stern.

Stern and Birkhead were not in court to hear the judge's ruling.

By Iain Burchell, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

John Travolta helps Grease star battle drugs with Scientology

2008-03-04T17:30:00.001-08:00

John Travolta is helping one of his Grease co-stars battle drug addiction - by introducing him to controversial religion Scientology.

Troubled Jeff Conaway, who played Kenickie in the hit 70s movie, revealed the actor has given him a "library" of books on the subject.

He has also given the recovering addict a Scientology 'auditor', who is helping the reality TV star overcome his problems.

Conaway, 57, admitted he was addicted to cocaine, painkillers and alcohol when he starred in VH1 reality show Celebrity rehab.

The Grease star, who can barely walk following a crippling back injury, took part in the show to try and fight his demons - but quit in the seventh episode.

Harrowing scenes in the series showed him lying in a hospital bed, having fits of rage, and screaming in pain after going cold turkey.

Now Conaway has revealed he has turned to Travolta - and Scientology - to help him try and battle his addictions.

"John and I stayed friends, but he couldn't watch me going down the tubes," he told US entertainment show Inside Edition. "He gave me a whole library of Scientology books and he's given me an auditor that comes almost every day."

The actor, who speech is slurred due to his drug abuse, claims he is now off heavy drugs, but still takes prescription medicine for pain.

Travolta, 54, joined Scientology in 1975 and endorses the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard.

In 2000 he starred in the movie Battlefield Earth, which is based on a work of science fiction by Hubbard.

By Joanne Clements, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Lily Allen blames the paparazzi for damaging her car

2008-03-04T16:30:00.003-08:00

Dina Lohan’s reality TV show to premiere this summer

2008-03-04T16:30:00.001-08:00

Dina Lohan's new E! reality show - which sees her star alongside daughters Ali and Lindsay Lohan, is set to premiere in the summer, it has been revealed.

The show, tentatively titled Living Lohan, will follow the Lohan matriarch as she juggles family life with business, attempting to launch Ali’s entertainment career. Like her famous sister, Ali, 14, wants to sing and act – and plans to record songs at Las Vegas’ Palms Casino on the show.

"Viewers will go inside the Lohan’s Long Island home for the first time to follow Dina as she works double duty as mom and manager to help Ali try to follow in her big sister [Lindsay’s] famous footsteps," a press release for the show says.

"Dina is determined to help each of her four kids fulfill their dreams and refuses to live in fear of what others may think, despite being under the paparazzi microscope."

Ali has also made it clear she's desperate to be famous.

"I want it so bad. So bad you don't even know. And now, it's actually happening," she told the March issue of Teen Vogue. "I've already been asked for my autograph, and it's just a really good feeling to have."

Dina's ex-husband Michael is supporting Ali's quest for stardom as well.

"This show could show Ali’s ability and talents, and spring forward to launch her career," he said. "Ali’s got a lot of talent. She’s a gorgeous girl, and can sing. She’s animated and full of life."

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Kevin Federline’s ex defends his weight gain

2008-03-04T15:30:00.003-08:00

Shar Jackson has defended her ex, Kevin Federline's weight gain - after he was seen hitting the golf course in Los Angeles looking a little over-fed.

Jackson - who has two children with Federline - insists his fuller figure is the result of being a full-time Mr. Mom.

"It's daddy weight!" she tells Us Weekly magazine. "When you are a full time parent, sometimes you can't focus on you.

"If gaining a few pounds is your only problem, life's not too bad!"

Adds K-Fed's rep, "He’s a stay-at-home dad, and people tend to gain weight when they are home with the kids. He's very happy with the way he looks.”

Federline - who as well as his children with Shar, has 2 children with pop wreck Britney Spears - was awarded sole custody his and the troubled singer's sons, Sean Preston, 2, and 17-month-old Jayden James in January.

He told Details last year that he has fully embraced fatherhood.

"To be a father is everything," the rapper — No. 7 on Details’ Top 50 Power Players — said. "It shows me how little I am.”

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

American Idol hit by male stripper scandal

2008-03-04T15:30:00.001-08:00

Simon Cowell's American Idol has been hit by a male stripper scandal.

Idol finalist David Hernandez used to strip off and perform in the nude at a male strip club in Phoenix, according to U.S reports.

Hernandez, 24, worked at Dick's Cabaret in the desert city for three years until September 2007, the club's manager Gordy Bryan claims. "He had the look and the type that people like, so he made pretty good money here," Bryan said.

The news may bring an end to Hernandez's attempts to win the hit talent show.

In 2003 finalist Frenchie Davis was kicked off the family-friendly show after her picture appeared on an adult website.

But last year contestant Antonella Barba was allowed to keep singing despite racy pictures of her appearing online.

FOX has not commented on the claims.

By Graeme Massie, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Rita Marley to produce the first ever Bob Marley biopic

2008-03-04T14:30:00.003-08:00

Rita Marley is set to produce the first ever biopic on her late husband Bob Marley.

The movie about the reggae icon will be based on Rita's 2004 autobiography 'No Woman No Cry: My Life with Bob Marley," according to U.S reports.

And if Rita has her way, former Fugees star Lauryn Hill, Marley's own daughter-in-law, will play her in the movie, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Rita and Bob Marley were married for 15-years before he died of cancer in 1981.

"Lauryn would be ideal. She sees my life as her life," Marley said.

The movie project will be filmed in Jamaica early next year and is set for release in late 2009.

Hollywood legend Martin Scorsese is also working on an authorized biopic, which will be released on Marley's 65 th birthday on February 6 2010.

By Graeme Massie, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Madonna vows to keep her career going at 50

2008-03-04T14:30:00.001-08:00

Madonna has been the reigning Queen of Pop for decades -- but turning 50 isn't going to see the singer give-up her crown anytime soon.

The 'Material Girl' superstar - who turns hits 50 in August, said the big 5-0 was just "another excuse to have another birthday party" and that more hit records and a new film career are just around the corner.

She said: "Well, I'm sure I wasn't put on this earth just to make records.

"There are a lot of things I want to achieve. I'd like to be a better human being.

"I'd like to be a better parent. I still have my children to raise. That's a big responsibility, I'm not done with that.

"I would like to direct more films and write them. I've only done one. To me that's the beginning of that career and I want to make more records. I love music."

Despite her age - Madonna is in fabulous shape - and looks better than many people decades younger. "I love to dance. I love to feel physically strong," she said. "I feel stronger now than maybe 20 years ago."

Madonna's new album, Hard Candy, will be released next month. But away from the recording studio, she and her movie director husband Guy Ritchie, 39, are raising 11-year-old daughter Lourdes and sons Rocco, seven, and adopted David Banda, two.

In a rare revelation about her fiercely guarded private, Madonna admitted Lourdes is growing up into a real "mini-me".

She said: "She has a very strong opinion of clothes and fashion and a strong personality so that'll be a challenge for me. She says she wants to be an actress." If she's anything like her mother, look out Hollywood.

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Kate Beckinsale cannot cope with the fact that she’s famous

2008-03-04T13:30:00.005-08:00

Kate Beckinsale has admitted she cannot cope with the fact that she's famous.

The Underworld actress doesn't even think she's a star, she says in a new magazine interview. And she admits she would "go ugly" for a dream role - but not just to win an award.

She said: "I'm in complete denial about being a celebrity.

"I spend 80 per cent of my time in my kitchen and occasionally I'm wheeled out to pretend to be Kate Beckinsale for awards shows.

"I'm not at nightclubs every night but I'll take my kid hiking and several paparazzi will show up and it's like, 'What? I'm not shaving my head in public. You need to leave me alone.'"

She added: "I deal with it and haven't become an asshole because it occupies quite a small part of my life.

"I'm very good at not seeing people pointing and taking pictures; people I'm with are much more disturbed about it. I'm trying to work on becoming less polite."

Beckinsale, 34, recently moved to California, where she now lives with director husband Len Wiseman, and her nine-year-old daughter from a previous relationship, Lily.

Asked what the biggest transition has been, she said: "Not being able to walk around. I've lived in London, New York, and Paris, and that's where I am comfortable.

"I have a very poor sense of direction, which is inconvenient, but it's actually borne fruit for me, wandering around discovering amazing places.

"I think I'd just wander around and discover getting mugged here; it's not quite the same feel."

And asked if she would ever "go ugly" for the chance of winning an Oscar, she said: "Not necessarily for an Oscar; I would for a great part.

"I don't think you can ever guarantee an Oscar nod. I think if you were doing it for that and you gained 300 pounds and you didn't get nominated, you'd be miserable, but if you really love the material it's worth it.

"I've gained 20 pounds, 25 pounds for [upcoming crime drama] Winged Creatures; bleached all my hair blonde, then it all fell out - I'm still dealing with it, but that's all part of the fun."

The actress tells the new issue of US lifestyle magazine, Los Angeles Confidential: "What I'd like to do is comedy; it's actually my favourite thing to do.

"I'm such a horrific snob about it that I hate most romantic comedies.

"I find them not funny, actually, and usually just romantic."

Beckinsale will next be seen on screen in Winged Creatures, starring opposite Forest Whitaker and Dakota Fanning.

The drama charts the bond formed between a group of random people after they survive a random shooting attack in a Los Angeles diner.

By Gavin Wilson, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

James Blunt plays graphic footage of war-torn Kosovo during gig in New York

2008-03-04T13:30:00.003-08:00

James Blunt shocked concert goers - by playing graphic footage of war-torn Kosovo during a New York gig.

The singer broke off from playing his love songs and ballads to show the home videos, which he shot while serving in the region with NATO.

A US source revealed: "The audience watched a massive video screen display images of bombed homes, dead bodies and graves interspersed with smiling children flashing peace signs.

"The collective swooning turned to gasps."

Blunt, 34, later said of the Friday night concert at the Beacon Theatre in Manhattan: "The film was my footage, taken from our vehicles while we patrolled.

"I recently had a chance to go back and play for the Serbs, and they were all in on my message. It's great because music is the strongest form of communication, and it was nice to connect with them."

The footage played as Blunt performed single, No Bravery - which he wrote while serving as an armed NATO peacekeeper in Kosovo.

He also told the New York Daily News that he was behind Prince Harry's deployment to Afghanistan.

He said: "He's a soldier, part of the team. Let's hope that [the government] achieves their goals and he's helping them work toward that.

"You can either give a soldier a gun or a shovel" - a reference to NATO peacekeepers - "but either way, he's part of a global mission for good."

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Arnold Schwarzenegger accused of snubbing body-building fans

2008-03-04T13:30:00.001-08:00

Lily Allen vows to turn her back on her wild ways

2008-03-04T12:30:00.003-08:00

Scarlett Johansson was distracted by men’s codpieces during the filming of her new movie

2008-03-04T12:30:00.001-08:00

Scarlett Johansson was distracted during the filming of her new movie The Other Boleyn Girl - because she couldn't stop staring at her male co-stars' nether regions.

The Hollywood star said she was amazed at how big the codpieces were under their tight costumes.

"At first I was so distracted, I had never worked on a film that had used codpieces and now in the modern productions I request them," she joked.

She then said she got the role of Anne Boleyn's sister Mary after her co-star Natalie Portman suggested her for the part.

"I originally got the script through Natalie, she had been attached to play Anne and I heard there was a project and was asked if I'd be interested in playing her sister," she said.

"I was a huge fan of Natalie's, I've been a huge fan of hers for a long time and so I jumped at the opportunity. I read the script and it's really rare to find a project where there is two meaty roles for women."

Her co-star Natalie then admitted she has spent so long in England filming she has picked up some of the cockney rhyming slang. "I've got some more slang like 'take a butcher's' and also your 'boat race' means face," she said on morning show GMTV.

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Rihanna and Chris Brown spotted making out in Paris

2008-03-04T11:30:00.001-08:00

Rihanna and Chris Brown are clearly a couple not afraid to show their affections in public - after they were spotted hugging and kissing at at a Paris Fashion Week party for famed photographer Peter Beard on Saturday night.

"They were aware of people watching them but couldn’t keep their hands off each other!" an onlooker tells Us Weekly magazine. "It was a very sexy PDA [public display of affection].

"By the end of the evening, they were kissing passionately, and Rihanna was lying in Chris' arms," the eyewitness adds. "If people weren’t sure if they were going out before, they certainly knew afterwards!"

Only two weeks ago, after Brown was spotted getting close to Rihanna at a Grammy's after-party, Chris, 18, insisted they were just friends. "We're just friends We hang out," he said.

But two days later they were spotted walking hand-in-hand into a private room at L.A. hot spot Les Deux to celebrate Rihanna's 20th birthday party.

The news comes as Rihanna told Britain's Fabulous magazine last week: "I’m single. If a good guy comes along we’ll make it work, but for now I’m having fun being a single woman."

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Jamie Lee Curtis advertises Activia

2008-03-04T10:30:00.003-08:00

Here's Jamie Lee Curtis in her latest role - advertising yoghurts on US television commercials.

The Trading Places star is the new face of food giant Dannon and will appear in a series of adverts promoting the company's Activia products.

Dannon claims the probiotic yoghurt-like drink aids digestive problems.

Curtis said in a statement: "Digestive problems are important and surprisingly common but we don't discuss them.

"Whereas we routinely talk about other uncomfortable topics, such as erectile dysfunction, digestive health is not being addressed - and it's time to change that.

"I am not afraid to talk about bowel issues - there I said it - and I'm very committed to help people find solutions, like a balanced diet and Activia.

"It is rewarding to be the ice breaker who speaks openly about digestive health and irregularity, and make it easier for people to find a solution."

Curtis, 49, will next be seen on screen in Disney live-action comedy, Beverly Hills Chihuahua.

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Winona Ryder hits out at engagement claims

2008-03-04T10:30:00.001-08:00

Winona Ryder has hit out at claims she is engaged to be married.

It had been reported that the Beetlejuice star revealed she was engaged to Rilo Kiley guitarist Blake Sennett at Paris Fashion Week last Thursday.

However, Ryder's spokeswoman Mara Buxbaum has shot down the story.

She said: "It's not accurate. They're dating and they have been dating for some time, but they're not engaged."

The pair met while working together on the film Water Pill.

Ryder, 36, will soon be seen in a new big screen version of sci-fi TV hit, Star Trek, alongside British actor Simon Pegg.

Sennett, 31, is the lead guitarist in indie band, Rilo Kiley.

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Jessica Simpson sleeps on the floor to beat insomnia

2008-03-04T09:30:00.015-08:00

Jessica Simpson has told how she beats insomnia - by sleeping on the floor.

The pop star turned actress says she tosses and turns all night unless she gets out of bed. But she said that as soon as her head hits the carpet she goes out like a light.

She said: "It's more of a mental thing. I tell myself, 'I cannot fall asleep, there's no way if I get into bed right now I'm gonna fall asleep.'

"I end up just laying on the floor and falling asleep."

She told the New York Post: "That's advice that I've gotten - don't ever get into bed until you know that it's time to go to sleep, or else you'll lay there and that's when you start tossing and turning."

It comes as the Dukes of Hazzard beauty's boyfriend, US football star Tony Romo, 27, denied reports he is engaged to Simpson, also 27.

Simpson was previously married to boy band singer Nick Lachey.

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

James Blunt plays graphic footage of war-torn Kosovo during gig in New York

2008-03-04T09:30:00.013-08:00

Winona Ryder hits out at engagement claims

2008-03-04T09:30:00.011-08:00

Michael Jackson’s former lawyers to receive a $20.25m payout

2008-03-04T09:30:00.009-08:00

The owner of a celebrity jet service must pay Michael Jackson's former lawyers $20.25m for taping them with the star onboard an aircraft.

XtraJet and owner Jeffrey Borer taped Jacko and his lawyers as he flew from Las Vegas to Santa Barbara in 2003 to turn himself in on child molestation charges.

Jacko's top lawyer Mark Geragos must be paid $18m by the firm, while his associate Pat Harris gets $2.25m.

The tapes reportedly came to light in November 2003 when Fox News was offered them for sale.

Borer and an associate later pleaded guilty to federal charges of conspiring to secretly record Jacko and his lawyers.

He eventually served his home detention punishment in the five-star Ritz Carlton hotel in Marina Del Rey, California.

The scale of the punitive damages was made public on Monday. Borer's lawyer says he will appeal the damages based on the fact there was no audio on the video tape.

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Jaime Pressly was convinced she was related to Elvis Presley

2008-03-04T09:30:00.007-08:00

Actress Jaime Pressly was convinced she was related to Elvis Presley when she was a child, she has revealed.

The My Name Is Earl star's grandfather jokingly told her that there had been a feud between the two families - resulting in a name change.

She said: "When I was a little kid there was a lot of teasing going on about me being related to Elvis.

"I went to my granddad and asked him, 'Is it true? Are we related to Elvis?'

"And he said that years ago there was a family feud between the Presleys, and half the family changed the spelling.

"And I said, 'Really?' And he said, 'I don't know. What do you think? Whatever you believe is true is true.'

"Then I asked my Uncle Tommy about it, and he went and got a picture of Elvis's dad and my grandfather and laid them down side by side, and they looked like brothers.

"I've never seen anything look so close in my life. Same sideways smile, same teeth, same eyes. And he said, 'See? It's not necessarily not the truth.'"

And mother-of-one Pressly, 30, admits she has made some mistakes in her career.

She tells US style magazine BlackBook: "There's a bunch of films I wouldn't have done, and it's not the nudity or anything like that; it's just that they're not great films.

"Once you do a film that does well, all of a sudden people get funding for distribution for that independent film you did eight years ago and then it comes out and you look like an asshole.

"Instead of one door closes and another one opens, it's sometimes like one door opens and another door shuts."

And she reveals that having a child - son Dezi, born last May - changed her life.

She said: "Having a child has completely changed everything.

"Even if you look at the design of my clothing, it's a whole new collection now. "Everything about it is different because it's more conservative, but it still has a sexy sophistication to it. Everything is that way with me since having a baby."

Pressly also said she hopes to wed DJ fiance? Eric Cubiche soon. She tells the March 2008 issue of the publication: "Knowing that we're not married, and that we're together because we want to be, that's what makes it great.

"We're here because we want to be here. We had a baby because we wanted to have a baby.

"When you put someone in a straight jacket, especially me in a straight jacket, all I want to do is rip it off and run.

"We got engaged as soon as we found out I was pregnant. And not for anybody else's sake, but just for the fact that I wanted a ring on my finger to solidify things."

By Gavin Wilson, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Jennifer Lopez hires a masseuse and color therapist for her newborn twins

2008-03-04T09:30:00.005-08:00

Jennifer Lopez and husband Marc Anthony have hired a masseuse and a trained color therapist for her newborn twins.

The 'Jenny From The Block' star, whose twins Max and Emme were born last month, have also reportedly ordered 600-count Egyptian cotton cot linen, designer Babygros, diamond-engraved rattles and, two small Shetland ponies for the youngsters.

A source said: "Jennifer has gone all-out to give the twins an amazing childhood.

"She had the nursery painted a beautiful aquamarine and light blue - colors which are supposed to have intelligence boosting properties.

"She listened to classical music throughout her pregnancy and is now having music piped through to the nursery to help relax her youngsters.

"She has employed a professional baby masseuse to come in once or twice a week and is also superparanoid about hygiene.

"The twins' wing is totally sterile and all flowers and presents are stored in a separate room, so they don't contaminate the babies' area.

"It may sound excessive but she's only got her kids' best interests at heart and wants to give them the start in life she never had."

The Latino beauty, 38, is said to have consulted her close friends Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes prior to setting up her baby palace.

And Lopez is reportedly so worried that her baby twins might be kidnapped - she shelled out a whopping $600,000 hiring a team bodyguards to watch over them 24/7.

According to sources close to the Latino singer, Lopez - with the full support of Anthony - beefed up her home security by hiring SIX bodyguards - at an annual cost of $600k - two for each eight-hour shift around the clock.

Lopez has also reportedly installed closed-circuit cameras in every room in hers and Anthony's various homes.

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Hayden Panettiere, Lance Armstrong & Wyclef Jean urge Americans to vote

2008-03-04T09:30:00.003-08:00

A string of celebrities have appeared on a US talk show to urge Americans to vote in the presidential election.

Heroes star Hayden Panettiere, cyclist Lance Armstrong and singer Wyclef Jean took time out to promote the importance of voting on Larry King Live.

Actress Rosario Dawson and singer Josh Groban also spoke about the election on the talk show.

Panettiere, who is the official spokeswoman for voting campaign Declare Yourself, told King that she had voted for the first time this year.

"I'm a newbie voter," the 18-year-old said. "It felt very empowering very empowering to have a voice and declare yourself."

The actress spoke about her involvement with the Declare Yourself campaign and said she was urging youngsters to quiz presidential candidates about issues that affect them.

"Declare Yourself speaks to young people," she explains. "I've said to them, ask your candidates about problems, whether it be environmental or Lance with cancer or war. Ask them what their views are on it.

"Then let that weigh in on their decision."

Groban, who works with Rock the Vote - urging youngsters to register to vote - revealed he first voted when Al Gore was running for president.

"I had just been signed," he told King. "I remember doing some campaigning for him and singing at some events for him in Nashville.

"It's empowering. It was really -- as soon as I could vote, I started voting."

He continued: "Every election you find that youth voters are getting more and more to the table. The myth that youth voting is dropping is just that. It's a myth.

"Every time they feel like the issues get stronger and stronger and are talked about more and more.

"You know, the potential -- we have the potential to have 45 million youth vote. That would be a quarter of the voting population."

Jean, who is also involved with Rock the Vote, added: "I was born in Haiti. I came to America.

"The important thing is that voting is very important. And the idea of coming from Haiti, sometimes kids don't get chances to vote.

"So it's important that living in America you don't take nothing for granted. It's important to go out and cast your vote."

Armstrong, a cancer survivor and Tour de France winner, is trying to make the fight against cancer a national political priority.

He told King he was keen to get the disease discussed in this year's election campaigns.

"I think if you want to be the commander in chief, you have to discuss something that kills one American every minute," he said. "We'll give them the opportunity in Ohio, in a critically important swing state, to come speak to the voters of Ohio and lay out an agenda, lay out a plan, and refocus the war on cancer."

Dawson, the co-founder of Voto Latino, told the talk show host about the importance of encouraging Latinos to vote.

"Latinos are the largest minority as of March of 2003 in the entire country," she explained. "So the numbers will only continue to grow.

"When you saw the numbers coming in from California in the primaries, I mean people who voted, 38 percent of the vote was actually Latino in California alone."

She added: "The Latino vote is specifically something that's going to be special with that, because you have 50,000 Latinos turning 18 every month."

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Bai Ling charged with petty theft

2008-03-04T09:30:00.001-08:00

Actress Bai Ling has been charged with petty theft - after allegedly stealing two magazines and a pack of batteries.

Cops claim the Crow star swiped the items, worth just $16.22, from a shop at Los Angeles International Airport last month.

If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of a $250 fine. She is not facing jail.

Ling, 37, allegedly stole two copies of Star magazine and a pack of AAA batteries on February 13, shortly before she was due to board a flight to New Mexico.

The Lost guest star was detained at about 4.30pm by a gift shop worker, after she apparently tried to leave the store with $16 of unpaid merchandise.

She was booked for misdemeanor shoplifting, at Los Angeles Police Department's Pacific station, before being released.

The following day Ling told E1 news she hadn't been herself when the alleged incident occurred, because she had recently split from her boyfriend. "Wrong boyfriend," she said.

Yesterday (Monday), the LA City Attorney's office announced that Ling had been formally charged with petty theft.

"[She] was charged based on an arrest that occurred February 13 at LAX, where she stole two Star magazines and a package of batteries," spokesman Frank Mateljan said.

The actress is scheduled to be arraigned at the Airport courthouse on Wednesday.

By Joanne Clements, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Rita Marley to produce the first ever Bob Marley biopic

2008-03-04T08:30:00.005-08:00

Kate Hudson puts pregnancy rumors to bed

2008-03-04T08:30:00.003-08:00

KATE Hudson put to bed rumors she is pregnant after showing off an impressively flat stomach in Miami Beach.

A number of recent pictures seemed to show a telling bump on the actress, which added fuel to reports earlier this year that she was expecting her second child.

But as she wore a tiny red bikini around her hotel pool, the 28-year-old proved she is not pregnant - and has a stunning body.

Hudson, who was in Florida to promote her directorial debut, happened to be staying just a few doors away from on-off boyfriend Owen Wilson's hotel.

The Fool's Gold star had been seen around the pool and beach the previous day, but mysteriously kept her stomach out of view with a sarong. And as she finally dressed down to a bikini, security around the pool at the trendy Raleigh hotel was tighter than ever in an attempt to stop pictures being taken.

But the actress proved she had nothing to hide and wowed fellow guests with her super-toned - if slightly pale - physique.

Hudson took in the rays from a sunlounger, went for a swim and played in the pool with her four-year-old son Ryder. At one stage the doting mum could be seen giving the kid a cute kiss on the lips.

An onlooker said: "She was very recognizable - but with her body she would have been turning heads anyway.

"That tiny bikini would not hide any imperfections and she looked like a million dollars. There was definitely no baby bump.

"And she was very sweet with her kid."

It is thought Hudson is back together with Wilson, seven months after the actor's failed suicide attempt. They had dated for a year before breaking up and he is thought to have been upset over the split at the time he slit his wrists.

But they have been seen getting cosy in Los Angeles and have been meeting up at secret locations during their stay in Miami.

Wilson is in town to shoot a film with Jennifer Aniston.

By Matheus Sanchez, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Bai Ling charged with petty theft

2008-03-04T08:30:00.001-08:00

Michael Jackson’s former lawyers to receive a $20.25m payout

2008-03-04T07:30:00.003-08:00

Kate Moss wants another baby

2008-03-04T07:30:00.001-08:00

British supermodel Kate Moss is giving up her partying ways - fueling speculation she's ready to have a baby.

The 34-year-old catwalk queen - who's dating 'The Kills' frontman Jamie Hince - appears to have turned her back on booze and fags - and friends think it's because she wants a brother or sister for five-year-old daughter Lila Grace.

Moss - a familiar face on the London party scene - hasn't been out on a bender for a whole month - the longest she's managed in five years - and is even having a go at giving up her beloved cigarettes.

"We all think she's gearing up to have a baby," a friend told Brittan's Now magazine. "When Kate had Lila, she found it easy to give up drugs and alcohol, but ciggies are a different matter.

"She now holds an unlit cigarette in her hand for as long as possible before lighting up. It sounds ridiculous, but Kate's more than halved the number she gets through in a day. She's been wearing nicotine patches on nights out.

"Kate's also reducing her workloadShe says it's more important that she enjoys life, but we think it's because she's finally decided Jamie would make a great dad."

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Drew Barrymore gushes about Justin Long

2008-03-04T06:30:00.001-08:00

Hollywood star Drew Barrymore gushed about her love for boyfriend Justin Long when she appeared on Oprah Winfrey's US chat show.

The 33-year-old actress grinned as she called the actor her "best friend" and said they were having an "excellent time" together.

"She's beautiful and funny and the most compassionate person I've ever met," the Dodgeball star added about his girlfriend.

Long took his place in the audience as Drew sat on Oprah's sofa for Monday's show in the US.

The giggling actress revealed that they had both used hotel shampoo when the chat show host told her she smelled nice. "At some point you decide who you want to be and the person you want to become, and when you grow up you make changes and different choices in your life," she said about her relationship with Long, 29. "This relationship is great - it's healthy and it's protective and supportive and it's full of humour and a lot of fun.

"All our friends get along great, which is awesome, because we travel together.

"We're having an excellent time, we're very, very fortunate."

Drew appeared on the Oprah show to make a surprise $1 million donation to the United Nations' World Food Programme, which helps feed children.

The Charlie's Angels star, a UN ambassador, was touched by the kids' plight after she traveled to Kenya last spring.

"Food is the basis for everything," she explained. "I didn't understand that in order to take the AIDS vaccination medicine you have to have the food in order for your system to handle the medicine."

The current Vogue covergirl presented a huge cheque to WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran, to huge cheers from Oprah Winfrey's audience.

Drew's best friend Cameron Diaz even phoned into the show to say how proud she was of her pal. "I've been listening to the show and I'm chocked up because I'm so proud of Drew, I'm so proud of the information she's giving the world," she said.

"It's unprecedented the point we're at in the world right now, learning how children are living in the world - it's devastating and the truth that has been spoken there is so important for people to hear.

"I'm so proud of you Drew for doing this and informing people."

"That's my best friend!" Drew squealed, revealing that she and Cameron call each other "Poo".

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Victoria Beckham: ‘Britney Spears’ life would drive me nuts’

2008-03-04T05:30:00.003-08:00

Spice Girls star Victoria Beckham says she'd hate to live Britney Spears' life - because the constant media attention would drive her nuts.

The singer - one of the world's most photographed women - insisted she needs her own privacy.

"I could never live a life like Britney Spears, who is under the spotlight every day," Victoria, 33, told OK! magazine.

"I couldn't do that. I would go stir crazy. I need my privacy with my husband and children otherwise I'd just go loopy."

The singer-turned fashion designer - who's married to LA Galaxy soccer star David Beckham, said her perfect night would be to "stay in with David and watch movies with the kids".

And even though the couple enjoy their nights out - they would never be snapped falling out of a club - because they are"quite boring", adds Victoria: "When we read magazines and there are so many celebrities going out doing whatever they're doing and falling out of nightclubs.

"But David and I are quite boring. If people really knew the truth about us they wouldn't care."

Their friend, tattooist Louis Malloy, also vouched for how down to earth the couple are.

"They don't walk around in jewels or anything," he said. "I was once at their house and Victoria came down the stairs walking around in chicken feet slippers. She gave me a look and said: 'Don't ask"'She does have a sense of humor."

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

John Travolta helps Grease star battle drugs with Scientology

2008-03-04T05:30:00.001-08:00

Kate Hudson puts pregnancy rumors to bed

2008-03-04T03:30:00.001-08:00

Bizarre stilettos without heels wow stars like Victoria Beckham

2008-03-04T02:30:00.003-08:00

Drew Barrymore gushes about Justin Long

2008-03-04T02:30:00.001-08:00

Tony Romo denies engagement rumors

2008-03-03T19:30:00.001-08:00

Jessica Simpson's quarterback beau Tony Romo has denied reports he's engaged to the singer/actress - insisting they're just "rumors."

"It's just rumors. That's what people say," Romo, 27, said at Monday's Cosmopolitan Fun Fearless Male of the Year Awards – where he was honored alongside Simpson's ex-boyfriend John Mayer and rumored former lover Dane Cook. "I guess [if] you date Jessica Simpson, that makes you fearless!" Romo joked.

Be the Dallas Cowboys star didn't dash hopes of a wedding in the future, saying, "I'm sure I'll get married one day. I don’t know when."

Romo also addressed rumors Jessica's dad, Joe Simpson played matchmaker. "I had met her dad a long time ago," he said. "He was there at the same time I met her, but it was indirect. You know, you just start talking. Some people take a liking to each other. Some don't."

By Owen Williams, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Winona Ryder’s rep blasts engagement rumors

2008-03-03T18:30:00.001-08:00

Winona Ryder's rep has hit out at reports the actress is engaged to Rilo Kelly guitarist Blake Sennett - insisting they are not true.

"It's not true," she tells Us Weekly. "She is not engaged."

Winona, 36, and the 31-year-old musician attended the Valentino fashion show last week in Paris.

The two-time Academy Award-nominated actress has five films set for 2008 and 2009. She will soon begin shooting The Private Lives of Pippa Lee costarring Keanu Reeves and Maggie Gyllenhaal.

By Owen Williams, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Jermaine Dupri suffering serious problems with his vision after laser eye surgery

2008-03-03T17:30:00.003-08:00

Janet Jackson's boyfriend Jermaine Dupri is reportedly suffering from serious complications following laser eye surgery.

According to MediaTakeOut.com, the 35-year-old rapper & producer -- who in 2006, became the youngest inductee to the Georgia Music Hall of Fame -- underwent elective eye surgery two weeks ago. And since then -- sources close to the platinum-selling star -- say he's having major problems with his vision.

Details on Jermaine's condition are sketchy, but one person familiar with the details revealed to MediaTakeOut: "[Jermaine's] virtually blind."

Dupri has been dating singer Janet Jackson, 41, since 2002.

Last month, the New York Post reported that Dupri proposed to Jackson, and that the couple is busy planning their wedding and hammering out a prenuptial agreement.

By Owen Williams, Mar 04 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Britney Spears in danger of losing her fortune?

2008-03-03T17:30:00.001-08:00

Troubled pop princess Britney Spears is in danger of losing her millions within four years - if she does not curb her urge to spend, it has been claimed.

The 26-year-old singer - who was previously said to be worth $100million - now has an estimated bank balance of $40million due to shopping sprees, holidays and partying.

This sharp decline in her once vast wealth is also reportedly due to spending huge chunks of her savings on houses and cars.

According to Britain's Daily Star newspaper, the Toxic singer's mother, Lynne, and father, Jamie, are now in crisis talks with the pop wreck over her financial recklessness and its consequences.

A source said: "She was very wide-eyed and attentive but she's as addicted to buying houses and new Mercedes as she is to the attention of the paparazzi.

"There was a moment when her mother said she could be out of money within four years and her children would still be in primary school."

"That was when she really sat up and took notice."

By Owen Williams, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Britney Spears’ paparazzo ‘boyfriend’ spotted with another woman

2008-03-03T16:30:00.007-08:00

Britney Spears' paparazzo 'boyfriend' Adnan Ghalib has been spotted with another woman - fueling rumors his relationship with the troubled pop princess is over for good.

The Birmingham born snapper has reportedly been getting cosy with LA waitress Amanda Pagel - after being photographed at her LA home.

Spears, 26, reportedly dumped Ghalib, 35, after finding flirty texts from another woman on his mobile phone.

She allegedly flew into a rage, throwing the shutterbug's $600 iPhone into her pool after discovering the saucy messages.

An insider told British newspaper The Sun: "There were about a dozen [text messages] from one girl, all sent in one day. They were pretty saucy stuff with sexual references - certainly not the sort you'd send to a friend.

"Britney lost it and started yelling. She was demanding to know who sent the texts and shouting, 'What's this about? You're cheating on me.'

"Adnan said she was just a friend but Britney got more and more angry. Then she told him, 'That's it. It's over.'"

By Owen Williams, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Jessica Simpson and Tony Romo fly coach

2008-03-03T16:30:00.005-08:00

Jessica Simpson and her beau Tony Romo boarded a short American Airlines flight from San Jose, California to Los Angeles Saturday -- and sat in coach just like everybody else, according to an eyewitness.

"A passenger two rows ahead of them was a Cowboys fan and he asked the flight attendant to give them drinks from him," said the source. "They accepted and each had a beer."

"Jessica looked totally bored on the flight," the witness adds to Us Weekly.

After the plane touched down, the couple reportedly waited until everyone got off the 44-seater aircraft before leaving -- and Simpson, 27, thanked the crew and pilots.

"They were really sweet on the plane," said the witness. "About 20 minutes later, I saw Jessica waiting outside the men’s room for Tony, just like any other regular spouse or girlfriend would wait for their husband or boyfriend."

By Owen Williams, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Jamie Lynn Spears expecting a boy

2008-03-03T16:30:00.003-08:00

Jamie Lynn Spears, the pregnant sister of troubled pop princess Britney Spears, is expecting a boy, it has been claimed.

Spears, 16, sparked rumors she's expecting a boy after she and her pop wreck sister paid a quick visit to West Hollywood's exclusive Petit Tresor baby boutique - and purchased several items that were light blue in color.

A source told MSNBC.com's The Scoop: "Britney originally said the items were for her sons.

"But the line appeared to be a cover for Jamie Lynn.

"None of the items could have been mistaken for being purchased for the two kids Britney already has."

The 'Zoey 101 starlet is believed to have bought organic baby blankets by Robbie Adrian, towels and pajamas.

Meanwhile, Jamie Lynn - who is around six months pregnant with her first child, is reportedly hoping to go to college and continue her education after the baby is born.

A source close to Jamie said: "She's already got her diploma. She wants to take her college entrance test.

"She's not wasting any time. Everybody is so supportive of her, and will back her in whatever she chooses to do."

By Owen Williams, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Courteney Cox’s ‘Dirt’ premieres in the US

2008-03-03T16:30:00.001-08:00

Courteney Cox is dishing the 'Dirt' on real-life celebrities.

The second series of Dirt - which stars Cox as tabloid editor Lucy Spiller - premiered across the U.S. last night. It gave a sneak peak at storylines that will give cause for concern for some real life Hollywood stars.

The troubles of Britney Spears, Madonna, Paris Hilton and Anna Nicole Smith will all be featured. But Cox isn't afraid of ripping into herself either.

The first episode included one unflattering shot of the former Friends star getting a painful-looking bikini wax at the beauticians.

Cox - who is the executive producer of the show - has changed the format by agreeing to use real-life celebrity storylines that are thinly veiled as fiction.

A rich heiress arrested for drunk driving is called 'Milan Carlton' instead of Paris Hilton. And a pop star that cuts off all of her hair while starting a romantic relationship with a paparazzi is called Sharlee Cates instead of Britney Spears.

Rosanna Arquette, Cox's sister in law, will play a Madonna-like character who gives Sharlee a lesbian lip lock at a music awards show.

By Owen Williams, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Scarlett Johansson auctioning herself off on eBay

2008-03-03T15:30:00.005-08:00

Sexy Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson is auctioning herself off on eBay.

The star is offering the highest bidder a chance to spend the evening with her at the premiere of one of her movies.

Also included in the eBay package is two tickets to the premier of her upcoming summer flick He's Just Not That Into You which also stars Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore and Ben Affleck.

The winner will receive a chauffeured car service to the premiere and their hair and makeup done by Priv?.

There will be two tickets to the world premiere of the movie in July in either Los Angeles or New York - and some one on one time with Johansson herself.

A video also plays on the eBay listing featuring Johansson, who says: "Hi, I am Scarlett Johansson and I'm auctioning off two tickets to be my guest at the world premiere of my film He's Just Not That In To You.

"This auction benefits Oxfam, which is an international relief organization that fights poverty around the world.

"The winner of the charity auction will not only get to attend the premiere but 100 per cent of the proceeds go directly to supporting Oxfam's work so please, please, please bid high.

"Thank you for listening and thanks for your support and happy bidding."

Proceeds will benefit Oxfam America, an international development and relief agency which delivers development programs and emergency relief services, and also campaigns for change in global practices and policies that keep people in poverty.

The eBay lilsting states: "Scarlett Johansson is a passionate and commited advocate and fundraiser and has been involved with Oxfam since 2005.

"In 2007 she traveled to Sri Lanka and India to meet young girls who have a chance to go to school against great prejudice and poverty, and she also met families affected by the Tsunami on the coastline of southern Sri Lanka.

"Now you can take part in this special experience with Scarlett and support a great cause!

"The winning bidder will receive: Two tickets to the world premiere of He's Just Not That Into You. The premiere location has not yet been determined but will be in either Los Angeles or New York this July.

"Chauffeured car service to the premiere. Hair and makeup for one by Priv?. A meet and greet with Scarlett Johansson at the premiere."

The bidding is listed to end on March 12 2008 - and so far there have been a total of eight bids with the highest bid being $205.

By Nicola Pittam, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Scarlett Johansson auctioning herself off on eBay

2008-03-03T15:30:00.003-08:00

Steve-O arrested on vandalism charges

2008-03-03T15:30:00.001-08:00

Jackass star Steve-O has reportedly been arrested on vandalism charges - after allegedly smashing holes in his Los Angeles apartment building.

Celebrity website TMZ.com said the London-born stuntman, 33, was "breaking holes" in the walls of his home when a neighbor complained.

The neighbor called the police - and held the movie star under citizen's arrest until they arrived, sources said.

Steve-O - real name Stephen Glover - shot to fame doing daredevil stunts on the MTV television show, Jackass.

In May 2003 he was jailed in Sweden on marijuana and ecstasy possession charges, while in July of that year he was arrested on charges of disorderly conduct for urinating on potato chips during a music tour in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania.

TMZ reported that Glover was being held this morning at the Los Angeles Police Department's [LAPD] Hollywood station, waiting to be booked.

A spokesman for the LAPD had no immediate comment this morning.

By Gavin Wilson, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Drew Barrymore donates $1m to charity

2008-03-03T14:30:00.005-08:00

Drew Barrymore has shown her philanthropic side - by donating $1m to the World Food Programme to help feed children in Africa.

"I have seen with my own eyes what a difference a simple cup of nutritious porridge can make in a child's life," the actress said. "It helps them learn, stay healthy and sets them on track for a bright future."

'Music and Lyrics' star Barrymore, 33, has worked with the charity since 2005 and became an Ambassador Against Hunger last year. She's taken two trips to Kenya to see the organization's work first hand.

"We have a dream to feed another 10 million hungry school children in Africa by Thanksgiving Day," said WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran, who also appeared on Oprah.

By Owen Williams, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Kid Rock pleads not guilty to battery charge

2008-03-03T14:30:00.003-08:00

Kid Rock has pleaded not guilty to a battery charge stemming from a brawl in an restaurant last October.

The 37-year-old singer, referred to by his given name of Robert James Ritchie in court, was not present at the hearing.

His attorney, Darryl Cohen, waived an arraignment hearing and entered the not guilty plea on his client's behalf in DeKalb County State Court.

Kid Rock was arrested with five members of his posse on October 21 2007, after they went out to eat at an Atlanta Waffle House.

The group had dropped by a metro-area Waffle House after a performance at the Tabernacle, and a fight allegedly broke out after a customer recognized a member of Kid Rock's entourage.

The customer exchanged words with the woman, which reportedly led to the singer getting involved and a words soon escalated to a fight.

Following the brawl Kid Rock, who was briefly married to Pamela Anderson, was charged with a misdemeanor charge of simple battery.

By Nicola Pittam, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy

Heath Ledger’s final portrait

2008-03-03T14:30:00.001-08:00

This painting of the late actor Heath Ledger - which he sat for less than two months before his death in January - has been entered into the 2008 Archibald Prize, Australia's top award for portraiture.

Artist Vincent Fantauzzo from Melbourne, Australia, says he will give the portrait, a large canvas featuring three photo-realistic renderings of a shirt-less Ledger, to the actor's family, who have asked for it.

"It seems only right, as we did the sitting at his mum's house in Perth and she was very much a part of the process, making us tea and crumpets and watching from the sideline," Fantauzzo said.

The central and largest of the images has the actor staring straight ahead, looking somewhat exhausted. The two background images feature Ledger with humorous expressions and whispering into the ears of his foreground image.

Ledger's body was discovered in his Manhattan apartment on January 22. His death has been ruled an accidental overdose from prescription pills.

The 28-year-old was nominated for an Academy Award for playing a gay cowboy in Brokeback Mountain.

Fantauzzo recalled the actor as "one of the most charismatic people" he's worked with, who was "witty, sarcastic and a lot of fun."

He said the two spoke for hours about art and when it came to sitting for the work, Ledger was the model of concentration.

Fantauzzo flew to Perth during the Christmas break to paint Ledger at his family home. He said that although Ledger looks weary in the main image, the actor was feeling "very positive about the future."

The winner of the Archibald Prize, worth about $47,000 USD, will be announced on March 7.

By Gavin Wilson, Mar 03 2008 © Copyright 2008 - Showbiz Spy