Another Celebrity Death
This time it's actor Karl Malden. Best known for his role in the show "The Streets of San Francisco" where he worked with Michael Douglas. Malden also won an Oscar for his role as Mitch in "A Streetcar Named Desire." Hs real name was "Sekulovich" and he often found ways to slip it into films and television shows. In December 2008 he celebrated his 70th wedding anniversary. Malden died of natural causes at the age of 97.
The Sudden Death of Michael Jackson
Who saw this one coming? An amazing career with fifty concerts scheduled in London. The "King of Pop", Michael Jackson died today at the age of 50 from cardiac arrest. The details of his death are just coming in. What we do know is that paramedics were called to Jackson's home Thursday (6/25) afternoon where they found him unresponsive. He was rushed to the hospital were he was pronounced dead. More details to follow.
UPDATE -- Where to begin?? -- 1) The family has ordered a second autopsy done on Michael. The first one will take 4-6 weeks for results due to the toxicology reports. Thus, the funeral is on hold. Father, Joe Jackson says his son will not be buried at Neverland Ranch. 2) Michael's mother, Katherine has been given temporary guardianship of his three children. No word on what their mother, Debbie Rowe is going to do. The children are living at the Jackson compound in Encino, CA. 3) No one knows if Michael left a will. 4) Lots of legal battles to come over kids, music, debt, etc. 5) Sister, Janet, is said to be in control of Michael's estate. AND we know she has a mess ahead of her. 6) Family is considering a Michael Jackson tribute tour. 7) Sources are reporting that Neverland Ranch, once the home of Michael, will be turned into a museum. 8) Michael's last rehearsal for his London tour, which happened a day before he died, could be released in both album and DVD form. 9) Sources are saying that Michael left more than 100 finished recordings as a personal legacy to his children. He didn't want them to ever be released.
UPDATE - 1) Family says no public viewing or funeral at Neverland Ranch 2) Memorial Service perhaps to be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles 3) The Drug and Enforcement Administration has entered the scene to assist the LA Police Dept. in a prescription medication investigation 4) Michael named his mother, Katherine, in his will as the guardian of his three children. Back up is long time friend, Diana Ross 5) Father Joe Jackson not mentioned in the will 6) Ex-wife Debbie Rowe not mentioned in the will 7) Iowa State Fair makes a statue of Michael Jackson in butter, which will be held in a cooler once completed until until it is on display August 13th through the 23rd!
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Billy Mays Gone
The bearded TV info-mercial pitchman extraordinaire Billy Mays was found dead by his wife at their Tampa, Florida home. Mays who was only 50 years old was most known for advertising the products Orange Glo, OxiClean and Kaboom! An autopsy has revealed that he died from an enlarged heart and likely died of a pulmonary embolism or blocked artery. There was no sign of head trauma (he was hit on the head when a tire blew out as his plane landed the night before his death and speculation was that it might have caused his death.) The autopsy also revealed no indication of drug abuse, prescription or otherwise.
Farrah Fawcett Dies
Actress Farrah Fawcett has lost her battle to anal cancer today at the age of 62. Sources are reporting that a vigil was being held around Farrah's bedside. Farrah's early careers including beauty pageants and in later years television and movies. She is survived by one son, Redmond, who's father is Ryan O'Neal.
UPDATE - Farrah's son, Redmond, will be able to attend his mother's memorial service. He will be allowed to leave the jail where he's currently serving time for violating his probation on drug charges.
Here's Ed!
Ed McMahon has passed away. Ed, who was 86 years old died in a hospital in Los Angeles surrounded by his family. In recent years he had suffered from several health problems and financial problems as well. Ed is best know as the "sidekick" to Johnny Carson on the "Tonight Show" for 30 years. He also did other shows like "Star Search", TV's Bloopers & Practical Jokes". He also did many, many commericals and was the delivery man for the Publisher's Clearinghouse envelopes. Ed was a decorated Marine fighter pilot during WWII and retired as a Colonel in the US Marine Corps. Ed is survived by his wife, Pamela and several grown children.
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A Change For Oscar
A change is coming . . . . The Academy Awards are doubling the number of best picture nominees from 5 to 10. It was common to have 10 nominees back in the 1930's and 1940's. With many more independent films getting recognized there's been a lot of debate in Hollywood about whether Oscar voters had drifted too far to the mainstream audience. The change will be in effect when Oscar nominations are announced on February 2, 2010 and of course the live telecast on March 7, 2010.
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It's Twins!
Congratulations to "Sex and the City" star Sarah Jessica Parker and her Broadway actor husband, James Broderick whose twin girls were born Monday afternoon in Ohio buy a surroate mom. The little gals named Marion and Tabitha are doing fine and will soon get to meet six-year-old brother, James when they arrive home. In Touch magazine is reporting that the couple is moving out of their brownstone in the West Village in New York and into a bigger house with a playroom for James and an extra room for the nanny to sleep over.
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Larry's Replacement
Who do you think would or should replace CNN anchor Larry King when he retires? Well, Larry did a one-man show in Las Vegas where he took questions for audience members. Someone asked him who he thought should replace him when he retired to which Larry answered Ryan Seacrest (RS). The audience roared in hysterical laughter as they couldn't believe the RS the pretty boy from "American Idol" could actually do a hard news show. Larry couldnt' understand why the audience felt this way.
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Ryan and Farrah To Wed at Last
Actor Ryan O'Neal says in an exclusive interview with Barbara Walters for ABC's "20/20" that he and longtime girlfriend Farrah Fawcett plan to wed. Fawcett, who is 62 have been battling cancer for more than two years and is reportedly bedridden. She and O'Neal began dating in 1980 and have one son together. Ryan says he's asked her to marry him time and time again. He reportedly told Walters that they will marry as soon as she can say "yes." Fawcett has reportedly returned to a Los Angeles hospital, where she will remain for atleast two weeks.
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Johnny -- A Big Tipper
Johnny Depp left a $4,000 tip at a Chicaro restaurant after eating and drinking with a party of 15. Depp was celebrating a red carper screening of his new movie, "Public Enemies," at Gibson's Bar and Steakhouse when he left his generous gift. The isn't the first time Depp has reached deep into his pockets. Last year, he left a $1,500 tip after dining at a Wisconsin restaurant and racking up a $2,600 bill.
Cher In The Movies
Cher is teaming up with Christina Aguilera for a musical. Sources are reporting that Cher will play the owner of a burlesque club on Sunset Boulevard and Christina will be an ambitious small-town Iowa girl with a big voice in the movie, "Burlesque." Cher will also sing in the movie. Her voice has been used in various soundtracks, however, she's never sung in a film she's starred in before.
Hollywood Says Goodbye To "Grasshopper"
The funeral for DAVID CARRADINE was attended by several celebrities, as you can imagine. Included among the mourners at David's service on Saturday, June 13th were Tom Selleck, Lucy Liu, Darryl Hannah and Jane Seymour. Also a group of HELL'S ANGELS and about four hundred friends and family members were there. David's brother, Bruce said there weren't many tears, but lots of laughter and it was a touching, light-hearted send off to the actor. After the gathering, a group of Lakota Tribal members burned incense and gave blessings to the attendees.
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Madonna Gets New Baby
Madonna was finally awarded her African baby as the Malawi high court ruled that she is allowed to adopt three-year-old MERCY JAMES. A passport is in process for the newest edition to the family as MERCY joins African brother, David, Rocco, Madonna's son with ex-husband Guy Ritchie, and Lourdes, her daughter with Carlos Leo. The same judges who originally turned Madonna down a few weeks ago decided that there were two options for Mercy...staying in an orphanage without any family, or with Madonna where she will be loved and taken care of.
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How'd Britney Do It?
Britney Spears, according to some, has a smokin' hot new body and it didn't come cheap. Sources say the pop tart has dropped a mint on a mini-tummy tuck, breast lift, facial peels, soy injections to dissolve cellulite, a $6,000 per month trainer in addition to having a state-of-the-art gym added to her home. The grand total for one of the hottest bodies in Hollywood is rumored to be a whopping $350,000. See, she is helping the recession.
Eddie Scoping Out The First Lady
Actor/Comedian Eddie Murphy is scoping out the First Lady. Eddie tells AbsoluteNow.com that he if he was to take another trip to the altar it would have to be with an "extremely exceptional" woman like Michelle Obama and warns the Commander-in-Chief that he'd better act right.
Matchmaker, Make Me A Match
Look out, Christie Brinkley, who's been married four times is want to help her daughter out. She is playing matchmaker to Alexa Ray. The supermodel tell sources that she wants her daughter to date singer John Mayer and thinks they'd be perfect together. Clearly, she hasn't followed John "The Player" Mayer's track record. Maybe she should call Jennifer Aniston for some "motherly" advice.
Cougar Betty
Add the name Betty White to the long list of Hollywood's hottest cougars. Sandra Bullock tells sources that the 87-year-old actress has quite a crush on her husband, bad-boy and tattooed guy, Jesse James. The mototcycle guru met Betty while she was working with his wife on the new click "The Proposal." Sandra says it was like a huge "flirt-fest" every time he popped by to see her. Seems both ladies like bad boys!
Diehard "Friends"
Diehard "Friends" fan may be disappointed to hear about a big-screen version of the flick without "Rachel." Sources say that Jennifer Aniston suggested writers kill off her signature character and the rest of the gang could re-connect at her funeral. Despite the rumor, Hollywood insiders say it probably won't happen because without the golden girl there will be no movie.
Who's The Most Powerful?
Angelina Jolie has replaced Oprah Winfrey on Forbes magazine's annual "Most Powerful Celebrity" list. Oprah still makes more money, but the list is compiled using both annual earnings and media visibility. The top ten celebs on the list include: 1) Angelina Jolie 2) Oprah Winfrey 3) Madonna 4) Beyonce 5) Tiger Woods 6) Bruce Springsteen 7) Steven Spielberg 8) Jennifer Aniston 9) Brad Pitt 10) Kobe Bryant
Baby News
Congratulations to bicyclist Lance Armstrong and his girlfriend Anna Hansen as they welcome their first child, Max. A picture of max appeared on the Twitter post, which Lance used to announce the event. This is Armstrong's fourth child as he also has three children with his ex-wife Kristin.
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Did Susan Win?
Looks like Susan Boyle or "The Hairy Angel" as the British call her didn't win the hit show "Britain's Got Talent." Susan finished in 2nd place behind the dance troupe called "Diversity" who take home $159,000 and will go on to perform for Queen Elizabeth at the Royal Variety how. Susan sang her signature song "I Dreamed A Dream" from the popular musical "Les Miserables" but it wasn't enough for the voting audience. Shortly after the finale show, Susan was admitted to a private clinic after suffering an "emotional breakdown" at her hotel in London. The London Sun tabloid reports Susan is suffering from exhaustion and is emotionally drained. Apparently, judge Simon Cowell is paying for her medical assistance.
Susan is on the mend and already getting some very lucrative offers to perform. Sources are reporting that Demi Moore wants to pay the sudden superstar $45,000 to perform at a party to celebrate her fourth wedding anniversary to Ashton Kutcher later this year. The couple thinks Susan's voice would be the "highlight" of the celebration.
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Diva du Jour
The award goes to Katherine Heigl. Remember her? The little blonde gal on "Grey's Anatomy." Sources are reporting that the actress just got dropped from a new comedy co-staring Julia Roberts, Jennifer Garner, Anne hathaway and Shirley MacLaine called "Valentine's Day" because she wanted way too money for a small amount of work. Apparently, Katherine demanded 3-million-dollars despite the fact that there are no "lead" actors in the film and everyone is taking a reduced salary because shooting is scheduled to last betwen three days and two weeks. Furthermore, no one on the A-list roster is making nearly that much. Of course, her rep says the sroty is just "ludicrous" and Katherine walked away for other reasons.
Stephen, The Cannibal
Move over Hannibal Lector, Stephen Baldwin is the new kid in town. Stephen, who will appear in the reality series "I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!" and says that if he runs out of food he will resort to cannibalism. He goes on to say he'll "be eating Sanjaya first." But the former "American Idol" contestant, Sanjaya doesn't think it's a good idea because he's so skinny and doesn't have that much meat on his bones. "I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out of here!" starts June 1st on NBC.
UPDATE - Looks like married contestants Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag has whined their way of the show. Leaving after the first episode. Spencer "screamed" at producers that he wanted a script because he's "not a reality star, I'm on The Hills." Thus, producers are flying Daniel Baldwin in (Stephen's brother) to the Costa Rican jungle to join his brother on the show. Also rumored to be sitting in -- Holly Montag, the sister of Heidi.
Mike Tyson's Daughter Dies
Mike Tyson's 4-year-old daughter has died, one day after her neck was accidentally caught in a treadmill cord while she was playing at home. Exodus Tyson was on life support after the accident. Police said an investigation showed it was a "tragic accident". Tyson apparently doesn't live at the house, but left Las Vegas immediately and flew to Phoenix upon hearing of his daughter's accident.
Kevin Bacon Mugged
Actor/singer Kevin Bacon was minding his own business last week at a subway station when a random guy grabbed his cell phone right out of his hands. Kevin immediately gave chase and raced through the crowd but couldn't catch up with the robber. Bacon enlisted the help of the NYPD after losing the guy in the subway crowd. He did file a police report but there's no telling whose private information was on the cell phone.
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And The Winner Is . . . .
After nearly 100 million votes ... the winner of American Idol 2009 is Kris Allen!!!!! Adam Lambert fans may have been shocked by the announcement, but Kris fans were delighted when host, Ryan Seacrest, made the big announcement. The "AI" finale did not disappoint. With heavy hitting performances by David Cook, Lionel Richie, Queen Latifah, Jason Mraz, Fergie and the Black Eyed Peas, Cyndi Lauper, Carlos Santana, Steve Martin and Rod Stewart it was a musical extravaganza for two hours. Finalist Kris Allen did a duet with Keith Urban, while Adam Lambert did an amazing number with the rock group KISS. Then both gents sang with the group Queen. When Kris heard his name announced he looked very surprised to be crowned the new "American Idol." Regardless, we say goodbye to Season 8 and get ready for Season 9 to start in January 2010.
Adam Lambert didn't win the competition, but the members of the band Queen are interested in him replacing frontman Paul Rodgers who has ended his four-year tenure.
Other "Idol" news - producers have already released the cities and venues where auditions will be held for Season 9. Cities are -- Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Orlando and Denver. No dates have been announced yet.
Movie News
A couple of interesting biopics coming down the pike worth mentioning. Director Martin Scorsese's heading up a new film about Frank Sinatra. So who would play Frank? There are several actors that have been short listed -- Johnny Depp, James Franco, Jake Gyllenhaal, Justin Timberlake (what?), Mark Wahlberg and singer Michael Buble would the chance to play "Ol Blue Eyes." Not on anyone's list Martin's go-to-guy Leonardo DiCaprio. Frank's daughter, Tina, is executive producer on the project, so she'll probably have some say on who gets the part.
Actor Al Pacino will play Jack Kevorkian, in a new HBO movie about Dr. Death. Kevorkian was jailed after a Michigan court convicted him of second degree murder after he sent a tape to "60 Minutes." The Hollywood Reported says the biopic will follow Kevorkian's career. Is that what you call it?
AND what about this pair in a movie together . . . Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz.The action/comedy is called "Wichita." Sources are reporting that both stars have approved the script, which has Cruise as a secret agent who pops in and out of the life of a single woman.
Shawn Johnson Wins "Dancing With The Stars"
Olympic gymnast, Shawn Johnson and her professional dancing partner, Mark Ballas, won the "Dancing With The Stars" competition and the big huge crystal ball trophy. "Sex and the City" actor, Gilles Marini and his partner, Cheryl Burke came in second with the "Bachelorette" Melissa Rycroft and her partner Tony Dovoloni taking third place. While Johnson was paid more for each successive episode she appeared on, she got nothing for winning. Because she's under 18, she had to have a judge approve a minor's contract to partipate in the competition.
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The Apprentice Winner Is . . .
Entertainment Diva, Joan Rivers! Joan beat out poker player, Annie Duke. Even though Annie raised $465-thousand for her charity and Joan only raised $150-thousand as their final challenge, Joan had bigger celebrities in attendance and managed to integrate the sponsor better. Both Joan and Annie have been rivals the entire season of the show. Thus, creating a dramatic finale!
TV Land has just announced that Joan will be the new host of a new six-part series beginning in August called, "How'd You Get So Rich?" Rivers will meet and interview millionaires who made money in interesting ways -- like the inventor of the product called BillyBob Teeth or a tycoon who started out selling cell phones door to door.
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A Story of "Titanic" Proportions
The stars of the movie "Titanic" have stepped up to help a Titanic survivor. Kate Winslet, Leonardo DiCaprio and director James Cameron all pitched in after hearing that the last living survivor of the sinking ship was having some serious financial difficulties. Millivina Dean, who is 98-years-old and was two months old during her voyage on the famous ship, is now in a nursing home in England and has resided there for the last three years since she broke her hip. She couldn't afford her medication or nursing care so Kate, Leo and James ponied up money to make sure she's taken care of for the rest of her life. No word yet from Celine Dion.
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The Third Wheel
The third person in the Sean Penn/Robin Wright Penn divorce is young actress Natalie Portman. Sources are reporting that the pair have been hanging out together since March 17th when they were spotted kissing at a hotel bar. Now it appears the couple has been secretly dating, and an "insider" says tha Robin was furious that Sean was messing around with such a young star.
Those Silly British!
The catfight of the day award goes to Joan Collins, cougar and former diva of "Dynasty" versus Camilla Parker-Bowles. The still sassy, Joan, dished to Britian's Daily Mail that the future queen of England could us a mini-makeover and suggested a new, curly hairstyle, investing in a one-piece bodysuit to firm her figure and a pair of shoulder pads to improve her shape. Too bad Camilla doesn't appreciate the suggestions. The Duchess of Cornwall was apparently livid that Joan had the nerve to critique her style. Meow!
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Cloris Struts Her Stuff
Cloris Leachman has no plans to ride off into the sunset at the tender age of 83. Actually the spitfire, who cut the run on ABC's "Dancing With The Stars" last season, is launching her own line of clothing! The senior fashion diva says that fans can look for versatile pieces with cougar and floral chiffon prints that are budget-friendly. The new designer claims that although the items could go for $300, they'll be priced at just 30-40 bucks per pop!
Jenny McCarthy Signs With Harpo Studios
Actress and former Playboy model, and current girlfriend to funnyman, Jim Carrey, Jenny McCarthy has signed a multi-year overall deal with Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Productions, which would give her her own syndicated talk show. The deal was announced on 5/1/09 on Oprah.com, where Jenny has a new blog as part of the deal as well.
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Who's The Most Beautiful?
The list is out . . . People magazine's 100 Most Beautiful issue. Christina Applegate graces the cover. As a breast cancer survisor and advocate for women, Christina has shared her story with millions of fans. First Lady, Michelle Obama, "Twilight" heartthrob Robert Pattinson, and his vampire gal pal, Kristen Stewart, Nick and Joe Jonas and "Slumdog Millionaire" star, Dev Patel made the list for the first time. Other celebrities and beautiful people are Halle Berry, The cast of 90210, Zac Efron, Julianne Hough, Taylor Swift, Angelina Jolie and bachlorette Melissa Rycroft. For a complete list of names head to people.com.
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Hollywood's Hardest Working Moms
The Material Girl is a Material Mom as well. Madonna tops Forbes' list of the hardest Working Moms. The list considered female stars in entertainment who have at least one child. The stars were ranked on estimated earnings in 2008. The rest of the top ten include: 2) Reese Witherspoon, 3) Gwyneth Paltrow, 4) Julia Roberts, 5) Sarah Jessica Parker, 6) Angelina Jolie, 7) Heidi Klum, 8) Kate Winslet, 9) Kimora Lee Simmons and 10) Kelly Ripa.
Regis Philbin Is Coming Back For "Millionaire"
ABC has picked up "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" for two weeks of shows to mark its 10th anniversary, as well. AND, even bigger news, Regis Philbin will once again host the show for it's 11-night event, which begins August 9th. The show has had a revival of interest since the success of the academy award winning movie "Slumdog Millionaire."
The Blonde Sitcom
Jessica Simpson reportedly wants Britney Spears to join her for a new TV sitcom. Sources are reporting that Simpson has tried to contact Spears to talk to her about the idea of doing a buddy comedy, like "Laverne & Shirley." Britney seems genuinely interested. Remember she had a recurring role on the CBS show "How I Met Your Mother."
Michael Jackson Confirms Concerts in London
Jacko is backo! Michael Jackson appeared at London's O2 Arena to announce "this is it!" What exactly is "it?" A series of 10 concerts at that venue beginning July 8th, if things go well, the promoters say there could be more shows. A huge crowd showed up to get a glimpse of the King of Pop who wore a black military jacket and punched the air a few times as he left the podium. Michael didn't say much, but repeated, "this is it" a few times, stressing that these would be the final concerts in London and that the set would feature all of the hits the fans want to hear. Welcome back!
UPDATE -- the first 10 concerts sold out very quickly. The promoter announced that 15 more shows have been added at the arena with still more possible in the weeks to come. Michael now has concerts running through September. UPDATE - word is now that more shows have been added by promoters and Jackson will be performing July 8th thru February 12th.
Sources are reporting that before Michael's concerts begin he may be getting more plastic surgery. The British tabloids say the already multi-carved singer has been meeting with the world's best cosmetologists and reconstructive surgeons to get ready for his return to the stage.
UPDATE AGAIN - So is this concert really going to happen? Sources are now reporting that MJ has postphoned his run of concerts. An email that was sent out now says that the concert scheduled to be on July 8th will now be July 13th. Other concerts have been pushed back until March of 2010. They are offering full ticket refunds, and special hotel rates for those that need to reschedule their trip. Postponed, but why? The email goes on to say it's "in order to meet the challenges presented by such a large and technically complex concert."
UPDATE AGAIN - Looks like no one told MJ that he'd be doing 50 concerts. Michael told a group of fans outside his LA rehearsal studio that he went to bed one night knowing he was doing 10 concerts and woke up the next morning finding out he was expected to do 50 total. MJ went on to tell fans that he doesn't think he's physically able to do that many concerts and figures he needs to put some weight on.
UPDATE -- E! Online is reporting that the gloved wonder has spent a whopping $25-million dollars on costumes, sets and even mini-action movies to entertain the crowd duringhis 50 upcoming show. Wait a minute -- we thought he wasn't doing 50 shows???
UPDATE - We are sad to report - CANCELLED!
