Hobbies and Entertainment

David Beckham feels youthful

2012-01-25T21:12:00.002+07:00

David Beckham still feels 20 years old.

The 36-year-old soccer star - who has sons Brooklyn, 12, Romeo, nine, and six-year-old Cruz, as well as six-month-old daughter Harper with wife Victoria Beckham - admits he occasionally feels his years are catching up with him, but often has a youthful attitude.

Asked if he is beginning to feel his age, he said: "I actually didn't know how to answer that question to be honest, but there are some mornings I feel twenty years old, and some mornings I feel my age."

David and his family are based in Los Angeles but the sportsman admits they all miss their home country.

Speaking on UK TV show 'Daybreak', he said: "We're English, so of course we miss London, we miss England. We're very patriotic about our country as everybody knows, and we love going back there. But right now, we're very happy living in LA."

David has recently signed a two-year contract extension to remain with Los Angeles Galaxy and he admits his decision not to accept an offer to move elsewhere was down to keeping a stable home life for his kids.

He said: "The whole family had a contribution in a way. We made a decision based on where our children are happy, where the place is that they're most stable. We were aware of all the other offers, and at my age, to be offered some of the contracts that I did get offered - you know, you have to take them seriously and you have to look at all options.

"But like I said, our family have been so happy in the last five years living in Los Angeles and we wanted that to continue."

'Artist,' 'Descendants' shine at Golden Globes

2012-01-17T11:06:00.002+07:00

Actor George Clooney appears on stage during the 69th Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills, California January 15, 2012.[Photo/Agencies]

Silent-era film "The Artist" and family drama "The Descendants" were the top film picks at the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday in a loose-lipped awards show that even had host Ricky Gervais walking onto the stage with a drink in his hand.

"The Descendants," starring George Clooney as a man steering his family through a tragic time when his wife is in a coma, won two Golden Globe trophies, including the top honor of best dramatic movie and another for Clooney as best dramatic actor.

Onstage he thanked writer/director Alexander Payne and backstage told reporters, "he knows how to tell stories. He knows how to make something funny and how to turn it around."

Clooney called the movie "a coming-of-age film for a 50-year-old and a lot of us have dealt with people like that."

"The Artist," a romantic tale about a failing actor who finds love at a time when movies were changing from silents to talkies, picked up three awards including best musical or comedy and best actor in a musical or comedy for its star, French actor Jean Dujardin.

Onstage, Dujardin did the most appropriate thing -- gave his speech, thanked his colleagues, then signed off by not saying a word. And true to stealing almost every scene of his in the movie, little dog Uggie detracted from an emotional speech by the film's director, Michel Hazanavicius, when the dog begged for a treat.

Other key winners included Meryl Streep for best actress in a film drama with her portrayal of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in "The Iron Lady." Streep, who is typically reliable with a funny acceptance speech had a difficult time reading hers this year when she forgot her glasses.

Michelle Williams took the trophy for best actress in a comedy or musical with her role as Marilyn Monroe in "My Week with Marilyn.

"I consider myself a mother first and an actress second. The person I most want to thank (is) my daughter, my little girl," Williams said referring to her child with the late actor Heath Ledger. "I want to say thank you for sending me off to this job everyday with a hug and a kiss."

Veteran Christopher Plummer, 82, won supporting actor with his portrayal of an elderly man who comes out as gay to his family in "Beginners," bringing both poignancy and a touch of humor to their lives. Octavia Spencer, playing a beleaguered housemaid in the U.S. South during the civil rights era in "The Help" was best supporting actress.

Woody Allen was given a Golden Globe for his screenplay for "Midnight in Paris" and Steven Spielberg won best animated film with his rollicking "The Adventures of Tintin."

Iranian film "A Separation" was named best foreign language film, and its director, Ashgar Farhadi, used the opportunity to tell world audiences that "my people. I think they are a truly peace-loving people."

OSCAR RACE LOOMS

The Golden Globe Awards are given out by the roughly 90 members of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association at what annually is among the key events during Hollywood's awards season because of the media exposure it brings.

Many of the movies and stars that win here also go on to compete for Oscars later this year, and "The Artist," which was the most-nominated film coming into the Golden Globes with six nods overall, will certainly become a frontrunner for the world's top film honors, as will "Descendants" and "The Help."

Oscar nominations from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will given out on January 24.

Unlike the Oscar voters, HFPA members also vote on their favorite TV shows and performances and in that arena "Homeland," about a modern-day CIA agent tracking returning war soldiers who may be terrorists, took home two Golden Globes for best drama series and best actress in a drama for Claire Danes.

Best actor in a drama TV series went to Kelsey Grammer for his role as a stern corporate manager in "Boss."

"Modern Family," a take on extended families in current-day America, took the prize for best comedy and its stars enjoyed one of the more memorable moments of the night when star Sofia Vergara gave their acceptance speech in Spanish, with English translation from creator Steve Levitan.

Best actress in a TV comedy went to Laura Dern for "Enlightened" and the comedic actor trophy was won by Matt LeBlanc for "Episodes."

Coming into the show, all eyes were on host Gervais, who ruffled the feathers of many a Hollywood celebrities last year at the Golden Globes. While he didn't tone down his jokes for the 2012 audience -- making fun of Johnny Depp, Jodie Foster, Kim Kardashian and the HFPA itself -- it seemed the stars were in the mood for his biting wit this time around.

"I thought he did a great job," Clooney told reporters backstage. "I think he handled tonight like a proper good host again ... people were expecting a lot of trash talk, and he did a little bit of that, and he made me laugh, he was very funny."

In fact, it seemed Gervais' humor was rather tame at some points compared to others who made penis jokes onstage and used foul language. At one point, Gervais came onstage drinking a beer, but somehow that seemed fitting for an awards show that bills itself as one big Hollywood party.

taken from : China Daily

Perry wins big at People's Choice Awards

2012-01-13T14:06:00.002+07:00

Katy Perry announces the nominees for Album of the Year at The Grammy Nominations Concert Live - Countdown to the Music's Biggest Night event at Nokia theatre in Los Angeles November 30, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Katy Perry is in the popular clique now.

The singer-actress won the most People's Choice Awards at Wednesday's 38th annual fan-favorite extravaganza, but viewers wouldn't have known it from watching the ceremony. An absentee Perry was honored in five categories, including favorite female artist, tour headliner, song of the year for "E.T." with Kanye West, music video for "Last Friday Night" and TV guest star for "How I Met Your Mother."

Despite originally being touted by the show's organizers as among the nominees expected to attend, Perry told fans on Twitter earlier this week that she wouldn't make it to the show but that "I want to thank u all for voting for me, fingers crossed!" It would have marked Perry's first public appearance since British actor-comedian Russell Brand filed for divorce from Perry last month after 14 months of marriage.

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2," the final installment of the magical film series starring Daniel Radcliffe, followed behind Perry with four wins for favorite movie, action movie, book adaptation and ensemble movie cast, but the film's stars also weren't present at the ceremony, leaving more screen time on the CBS broadcast for other winners in the show's 43 categories honoring TV, film and music.

Ellen DeGeneres, Nina Dobrev, Chloe Grace Moretz, Adam Levine, Lea Michele and Demi Lovato, who performed "Give Your Heart a Break," were among the winners on hand to accept their awards selected by Internet votes.

"For all the Rachel Berrys out there, this one's for you guys," said Michele, who won as favorite comedy TV actress for her "Glee" role.

Emma Stone and Johnny Depp — another no-show — won two trophies at the ceremony, which was hosted by "The Big Bang Theory" star Kaley Cuoco. Depp and Stone, respectively, won the favorite movie actor and actress awards, while Depp was also honored as favorite animated movie voice for "Rango," and Stone was selected as favorite comedic movie actress.

"I moved to L.A. eight years ago this week with my mom, who's right there," Stone said while accepting her pair of crystal trophies. "It is so insane to be standing up here right now. It is hard to describe to you."

Among the TV winners were "How I Met Your Mother" for TV comedy, "Two Broke Girls" for new TV comedy, "Hot in Cleveland" for cable TV comedy, Neil Patrick Harris for TV comedy actor, "Supernatural" for TV drama and sci-fi/fantasy show, "Person of Interest" for new TV drama, "Pretty Little Liars" for cable TV drama and Nathan Fillion for TV drama actor.

Winners in the movie categories included Hugh Jackman for action star, "Bridesmaids" for comedy movie, "Water for Elephants" for drama movie, Adam Sandler for comedic movie actor and Ryan Reynolds as Green Lantern for favorite superhero. Morgan Freeman was bestowed with the first-ever favorite movie icon award.

"When I found out that I'd been nominated for the first-ever People's Choice movie icon award, I decided to look up 'icon,'" Freeman said. "Here's what I found: The first definition said an icon is a tiny picture on a computer screen that represents a file."
taken from : China Daily

Simon Cowell holidays with wealthy divorcee

2012-01-12T21:20:00.002+07:00

Simon Cowell is enjoying a luxury break with diamond divorcée Zeta Graff.

The 'X Factor' boss is holidaying on a £30 million yacht off the coast of St Barts with a group of people including former love Sinitta, his close friend, gaming mogul Andrew Silverman and his wife Lauren and Zeta, who has been referred to as his "date".

A source told the Daily Mirror: "Simon has known Zeta for a few years and the pair have always remained in touch.

"She is with him for the New Year break and has been keeping him company. Zeta fits in really well with his gang and she makes him laugh. They have a real giggle together."

Zeta, 43 - who starred in 'The Fifth Element' - has a 19-year-old son Laurence with former husband Francois, a diamond heir.

Simon's fiancee Mezghan Hussainy - who hasn't been seen with the 52-year-old mogul for over two months - is not on the trip.

Last year, Simon claimed he was "not sure" whether he is still engaged to the 38-year-old beauty, and his 86-year-old mum Julie also revealed she has not seen Mezghan "for months".

When asked about the couple's relationship, she said: "I honestly don't know, I've hardly seen him. I saw him three days last week and he was working constantly, of course, every day in the studio while he was here. I met him briefly for dinner and he didn't discuss anything with me. He's very private, Simon, about his personal life. He won't talk about it, so I'm as much in the dark as everyone else.

"I haven't seen Mezhgan for months - she's been in America all this time and I don't know if she's working or what, because she has her make-up company and is very busy."

taken from : China Daily

Lindsay Lohan gets no regrets tattoo

2012-01-10T22:27:00.001+07:00

Lindsay Lohan has a new tattoo to mark a "great point in her life".

The troubled actress - who has endured several stints in rehab and various legal woes in recent years - visited a Los Angeles tattoo parlour on Friday (06.01.12) to get 'Live Without Regrets' etched on her left wrist, and friends told website TMZ she wanted the inking to remind her of how good she is feeling at the moment.

The insider claimed Lindsay is particularly excited about March 29, the date she will finally finish her stint of court ordered community service which she was made to undertake after breaching the terms of probation which were set following a 2007 driving under the influence conviction.

The 'Mean Girls' star has several other quotation tattoos already, recently getting the Billy Joel lyric "clear as a crystal, sharp as a knife, I feel like I'm in the prime of my life", from the song 'I Go to Extremes', inked onto her rib cage.

On her inner right wrist, Lindsay has the word 'Breathe', close to where she had the Marilyn Monroe quote 'I restore myself when I'm alone' inked after splitting from Samantha Ronson in 2009.

She also has 'La Bella Vita' etched on her back.
taken from : China Daily

Angelina Jolie doesn't lecture kids

2012-01-10T22:26:00.002+07:00

Angelina Jolie doesn't like to "lecture" her children.

The 'Salt' actress - who raises six kids, Maddox, 10, Pax, eight, Zahara, six, Shiloh, five, and three-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne, with partner Brad Pitt - explained while she likes to educate her brood about her work with refugees around the world, she doesn't tell them to think in a set way.

She said: "I'm not one of those moms who kind of lectures my kids. But I do tell them, whenever I go on a trip, where I'm going and why.

"And on some occasions, they've come with me to different refugee camps. And they also go to their home countries a lot."

With Maddox, Pax and Zahara being adopted from Cambodia, Vietnam and Ethiopia respectively, Angelina admitted she is keen for her offspring to see the world outside the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

She told People magazine: "Hopefully they live in the world, and they see the world really as it is, outside of Hollywood.

"If they really live in the world and spend time with friends around the world from all different types of backgrounds, they will just see things as they are."
taken from : China Daily

Justin Bieber talks to God, directly

2012-01-10T22:24:00.001+07:00

Justin Bieber talks directly to God.

The 17-year-old pop superstar is a Christian and believes there is a higher power guiding everyone's lives, but he doesn't go to church to affirm his faith and instead focuses on praying to God in private.

He told V magazine: "A lot of people who are religious, I think they get lost. They go to church just to go to church. I'm not trying to disrespect them ... but for me, I focus more on praying and talking to Him. I don't have to go to church."

Although he doesn't go to a place of worship, the 'Baby' singer recently got a tattoo of Jesus Christ's face on his left calf and showed it off during a trip to a Los Angeles beach.

In the interview, Justin - who is dating 19-year-old star Selena Gomez - also complained that as he has got more successful and famous he has become a target for people.

He added: "Now that I'm on top, everyone wants to bring me down ... Everyone's trying to tug at me and take my spot. Like Floyd Mayweather, he's the best boxer in the world. Now he is a champion. Every time he goes to a fight now, people are like, 'He's going to lose this time.' "

Justin was stunned last year when a 20-year-old fan, Mariah Yeater, accused him of being the father of her baby Tristyn, a claim which he vehemently denied and is yet unproven.
taken from : China Daily

Justin Timberlake gets engaged

2012-01-06T14:33:00.001+07:00

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel have reportedly got engaged.

The singer-and-actor is said to have proposed to the actress last month during a pre-Christmas break in Jackson, Wyoming, after they recently reunited following a three-month split.

A source told UsMagazine.com: "Justin knows how much she loves snowboarding and the mountains, so it was the perfect place.

"This was the basis for getting back together. When they reunited they had a conversation about taking the next step."

The couple - who have dated on-and-off for the past four years - are believed to have then celebrated their engagement with their family and friends at Justin's home in Big Sky, Montana.

Although she has accepted his proposal, 'New Year's Eve' star Jessica recently admitted she is in no hurry to walk down the aisle.

She said: "I was never one of those girls who dreamt of my wedding and my Prince Charming. To p**s off my mom, I used to say, 'I'm never having kids, and I'm going to be a fabulously rich old maid living in a house with cute butlers and dogs.' "
taken from : China Daily

Brad Pitt celebrates Jonah Hill's birthday

2012-01-06T14:31:00.002+07:00

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie helped Jonah Hill celebrate his 28th birthday.

Angelina and Brad - who stars in 'Moneyball' with Jonah - attended the belated bash at La Descarga in Hollywood, thrown by the actor after he turned 28 on December 20 where they were spotted dancing.

A source told USmagazine.com: "They danced a little bit. Angelina had a glass of wine in her hand," and added the pair stayed for two hours.

Jonah has previously spoken of his admiration for Brad, revealing the star let him stay at his New Orleans home while he filmed '21 Jump Street' although it did upset some of Brad's fans.

He said: "Brad is the coolest guy. It sucks because he's so handsome. You don't wanna like him so much!

"I was shooting '21 Jump Street' in New Orleans, and he let me live in his house. He said, 'Go live there!' I said, 'I'm there for three-and-a-half, four months' and he said, 'That's cool. Live at my house.' Like, he's the nicest guy.

"Every day I'd get picked up in a black SUV and dropped off. But people in New Orleans know it's Brad Pitt's house. It's literally on the tour. So, I would go home every day from work and there'd be a tour outside and they'd be freaking out, and then I'd get out of the car, and you could hear a collective audible sigh of annoyance when it wasn't Brad Pitt!"
taken from : China Daily

Mila Kunis is newest face of Dior

2012-01-06T14:28:00.001+07:00

Actress Mila Kunis is shown in this publicity photo for fashion house Dior, released to Reuters January 5, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

"Friends with Benefits" actress Mila Kunis is the latest celebrity to become the face of Dior, the French fashion label said on Thursday.

"I am absolutely thrilled to be working with Dior. The brand is iconic in so many ways. It defines fashion, elegance and sophistication," Kunis said in a statement.

Kunis, 28, will be the model for the Miss Dior handbag collection in the brand's Spring/Summer 2012 advertising campaign, appearing worldwide this month.

The "Black Swan" actress is joining her Oscar-winning co-star Natalie Portman, who is the face of the Miss Dior Cherie perfume, along with Charlize Theron, who is the face of the J'Adore Dior fragrance and French actress Marion Cotillard, who models the Lady Dior handbags. Theron and Cotillard are also recent Oscar winners.

French fashion house Christian Dior, part of LVMH luxury goods group, is a staple in the high-end clothing and beauty industry.
taken from : China Daily

Barbie to get some Kardashian gal pals?

2012-01-06T14:27:00.002+07:00

Television personalities (L-R) Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian and Kris Jenner arrive at the grand opening of the Kardashian Khaos store at the Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada December 15, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Is Barbie cosying up with the Kardashians?

Celebrity magazine Us Weekly reported on Wednesday that the world's most famous doll was getting three high-profile new friends -- reality TV stars Kim, Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian.

Us Weekly quoted an unnamed source as saying that the Kardashian sisters -- who found fame in the U.S. show "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" -- will be immortalized as Barbie's pals in an upcoming limited-edition doll line.

"The dolls will reflect the girls' measurements and may even come in Kardashian-designed outfits," the source said.

Barbie doll makers Mattel declined to comment, saying they never comment on "product rumors."

But the iconic Barbie herself, whose "careers" over the past 50 years have ranged from U.S. President to computer engineer, said in a cryptic Twitter message on January 1 that she had a new job to look forward to.

"I'm so excited to share my New Year's resolution with you dolls! I'm going to pursue a dream I've always had... to be a Fashion Designer!" Barbie tweeted.

Kim Kardashian, who made headlines last year by marrying basketball player Kris Humphries in a lavish TV wedding and filing for divorce 72 days later, has also been dropping hints.

"Merry Christmas Barbs @BarbieStyle! Long time no see! What did Ken get you for Christmas? Miss you doll!," Kardashian tweeted on Christmas Day.

"I'm sure we will be seeing lots of each other!Shopping soon!Xo RT @BarbieStyle: Happy Doll-idays to you too @KimKardashian! See you in 2012?"
taken from : China Daily

Hugh Jackman to work more Broadway magic

2012-01-06T14:25:00.001+07:00

Actor Hugh Jackman acknowledges applause during a curtain call for his Broadway play "Hugh Jackman, Back on Broadway," in New York November 10, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Hugh Jackman, who has recently been smashing records on Broadway with his one-man show, will return as escape artist Harry Houdini in the musical "Houdini," producers said on Wednesday.

The 43-year-old actor, who began his career on stage before landing Hollywood roles in movies such as the "X-Men" series, will star in the musical expected to debut in the 2013-14 season that will be written by Oscar-winning writer Aaron Sorkin.

Jackman said in a statement: "I have been deeply fascinated by the life of Harry Houdini since I was young, and in many ways I've been preparing for this role my whole life. I am thrilled to be collaborating with this collection of artists who are all at the top of their game."

The musical, which producers said is a contemporary look at the life and death of the Hungarian-born American musician and stunt performer, will be composed by "Wicked" musician Stephen Schwartz and directed by Jack O'Brien.

Sorkin, who will make his Broadway writing debut, said the musical "tells the story of an epic battle that took place between the world's greatest illusionist and a trio of women, known as 'Spiritualists'."

Jackman's latest Broadway show, "Hugh Jackman, Back on Broadway," grossed more than $14.6 million for its ten-week run that ended earlier this week. He has long been dubbed one of the most bankable Broadway stars.

The Australian-born actor began his career on stage in Melbourne, Australia, before earning international acclaim in the lead role of "Oklahoma!" in London and later as singer Peter Allen in the hit musical, "The Boy from Oz" and hosting multiple Tony Awards.

taken from : China Daily

Kate Winslet likes red polish on toes

2012-01-04T09:09:00.000+07:00

Kate Winslet loves red polish on her toenails.

The 'Titanic' actress says she doesn't really get time to pamper her feet but thinks putting on a bright red shade can help them look in better condition than they are.

She said: "There's nothing like red polish on toes. I don't have much time for pedicures, but if I haven't done anything to my feet for months and I look like a Neanderthal woman, a coat of red means you can somehow get away with anything."

As well as brightening up her toes, Kate also has tips for making eyes look better.

She advised: "A great trick I've learnt with mascara is to put it on the back of your hand and York it into the tips of a flat stipple brush. Lift up your eyelid ever so slightly and paint a line on the underside of the roots, extremely close to the lashes and then go over the lashes with mascara. It doesn't show as much as a liner, but can really define the eye. It also makes the whites of your eyes look whiter."

taken from : China Daily

Victoria Beckham confident of designs

2012-01-04T09:08:00.002+07:00

Victoria Beckham says the quality of her designs can never be criticised.

When the former Spice Girls star launched her first collection for her Victoria Beckham line in 2008, she was met with a lot of opposition because people just assumed she was another celebrity putting her name to a clothing range.

However, she has won over her critics and believes it's because she refused to comprise with her creations.

Victoria - who is now on her eighth season - said: "I'm very aware of people's preconceptions. But the product spoke for itself.

"When I was starting out I remember Marc Jacobs saying, 'As long as the quality is great, then people can say it's not their personal taste, but they can't say that it's rubbish.' And that's very true."

The mother-of-four is very proud of her fashion label but is stunned at how well it has done over the past three years.

She said: "In the first collection we produced 400 dresses and we had nine retail partners internationally, and now we're producing about 500 pieces with all categories in just over 300 stores worldwide. Though I'm trying to take baby steps, the business is growing very quickly. Our turnover year-over-year has increased over 120 percent. I think to anyone's standards that's very impressive."
taken from : China Daily

Emma Watson promotes Lancome lipstick

2012-01-04T09:06:00.001+07:00

Emma Watson's latest Lancome advert is aimed at getting young women to start using lipsticks again.

The 'Harry Potter' actress appears in a new campaign for the brand's new Rouge in Love lipstick and Vernis in Love nail polish and bosses are keen for the ads to make lipstick more popular.

Youcef Nabi, president of Lancôme International, told WWD: "The idea is to make this young generation - that has been a gloss fan - come back to using lipsticks. We worked with Emma on the shade range."

The lipsticks, available in 24 shades, come in a metallic case that can double as a mirror.

Youcef added: "This new generation spends their time looking at themselves in the mirror."

Lancome will also launch a new app, Virtual Mirror, with the lipsticks, which will allow customers to experiment with various colours online before buying.

She said: "You will be able to try all the shades by downloading your picture. It's really you transformed before your eyes."

The nail polish complements the lip colours, with Youcef saying: "Lipstick doesn't come without a nail enamel. It's the ultimate fashion accessory."

taken from : China Daily

Levine nuzzles with Russian model

2011-12-29T16:04:00.002+07:00

Maroon 5 singer Adam Levine and Russian model Anne Vyalitsyna attend the NBA basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Chicago Bulls in Los Angeles December 25, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Maroon 5 singer Adam Levine (L) nuzzles his nose up against Russian model Anne Vyalitsyna as they attend the NBA basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Chicago Bulls in Los Angeles December 25, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Maroon 5 singer Adam Levine (L) kisses model Anne Vyalitsyna during the kiss cam in a time out of the NBA basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Chicago Bulls in Los Angeles December 25, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]
taken from : China Daily

McConaughey engaged over Christmas

2011-12-29T16:03:00.002+07:00

Matthew McConaughey got engaged to Camila Alves over Christmas.

'The Lincoln Lawyer' actor proposed to the Brazilian model and TV star on Christmas day (25.12.11) and celebrated her accepting by posting a picture of them kissing together on his twitter account.

He wrote: "Just asked camila to marry me, #MerryChristmas (sic)."

Matthew, 42, and Camila, 29, have been together for five years, and have two children together, son Levi, three and daughter, Vida, 23 months.

The actor has previously explained how he wanted Camila to feel secure in their relationship as soon as it became serious by buying new home for them, which she could add her personal touches to.

He said: "Before this, I had a super home in the Hollywood Hills that I did by myself - landscaping, detailing pretty much everything. But that house was mine. And yeah, we coulda gone in there right away. Camila would have said, 'Fine, don't change a thing.' But I thought, I found the woman I wanna do it with, the woman I wanna make a family with, hopefully live our life out together.

"She needs to have 50 per cent of that. I mean, it's a lot easier for me to be at 100 percent. I'd always been 100 per cent. It's braver for me at 50 per cent."taken from : China Daily

Lady Gaga's assistant seeking back pay

2011-12-29T16:00:00.001+07:00

Lady Gaga's former assistant is suing for unpaid earnings.

Jennifer O'Neill, 41, has filed a lawsuit seeking over $380,000 in back pay and undisclosed damages after alleging she worked over 7,168 hours overtime without pay during the 13-month stint she had in the singer's employment.

In the suit, which was filed in Manhattan federal court, Jennifer - who worked for Gaga during her 'Monster's Ball' tour in 2010 - alleges she had to make herself available to the pop superstar at her "earliest waking hour or for spontaneous, random matters in the middle of the night" and in "stadiums, private jets, fine hotel suites, yachts, ferries, trains and tour buses".

Jennifer - who earned $75,000-a-year working for Gaga - also claimed some of her duties included "ensuring the promptness of a towel following a shower, ensuring the availability of chosen outfits and serving as a personal alarm clock to keep Gaga on schedule."

The case has been filed against the 'Marry the Night' hitmaker's touring company, Mermaid Touring.

A spokesperson for Gaga told the New York Post newspaper that the lawsuit is "without merit".
taken from : China Daily

Selena Gomez thanks fans for support

2011-12-29T15:58:00.001+07:00

Singer Selena Gomez poses on arrival at the 2011 American Music Awards in Los Angeles November 20, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Selena Gomez has thanked fans for their support following her mother's miscarriage.

The 19-year-old singer-and-actress pulled out of two concert appearances earlier this month when her mother Mandy Teefey lost the baby she was expecting and has now spoken publicly about the tragedy in a Christmas message to her followers.

She wrote on her Facebook page: "Belated Merry Christmas everybody... I can't thank you enough for all of your thoughts and prayers. We appreciate every one of you... I love you all so much and we hope you and your family had a beautiful Christmas!"

In her posting, Selena - who is dating Justin Bieber - revealed the baby was a girl who her mother and stepfather Brian had named Scarlett.

Signing off the message, she wrote: "Me, Momma, Brian and our guardian angel Scarlett."

Last month, the 'Wizards of Waverley Place' actress had spoken of her excitement at becoming a "big sister".

She tweeted: "Momma and Brian are finally letting me share the news... My mommys carrying my baby brother or sister :) I'm the happiest girl in the world! (sic)"

Mandy, a former actress, was married to Selena's father Ricardo Joel Gomez until the Disney star was five years old. She went on to tie the knot with Brian in 2006.
taken from : China Daily

Cast of 'We Bought a Zoo' meets public

2011-12-29T14:56:00.002+07:00

Director Cameron Crowe is bringing his latest work, "We Bought a Zoo" to cinemas around new year.

Starring Matt Damon, Scarlett Johannson and Thomas Haden Church, it's a heartwarming comedy-drama of how a single father and his young family cheer themselves up after the mother dies.

In "We Bought a Zoo", Matt Damon plays Benjamin Mee, a father who impulsively buys a rundown wildlife zoo to re-energize himself and his two kids, after his wife dies of cancer. The movie is based on a memoir by the leading character in real life, the actual Benjamin Mee.
An Academy Award-nominee in 2004, Thomas Haden Church plays Damon's brother. He says he couldn't pass up the opportunity to work with Damon, one of his favorite actors, and one of his favorite directors, Oscar winner Cameron Crowe.

Thomas Haden Church, actor of "We Bought a Zoo", said, "The opportunity to be in a movie that Cameron is directing and love Matt. Followed his career for 15 years and really admire his choices and I just think he's a remarkable gifted and grounded dude as an actor and also a really great writer...And then Cameron you know is just a legendary writer/director and a guy I really consider to be my generation."

The film's young stars, Elle Fanning and Colin Ford had the advantage of knowing one another before filming began. It turns out that the pair go to the same school. And they're already preparing for what their classmates will say about playing romantic love interests in the film.

Elle Fanning and Colin Ford said, "Elle's in the grade below me so, I always have to add that because I'm in high school and she's in middle school so it makes a big difference. But yeah we were friends before so making the kind of romantic scenes a little more simple because we kind of just plugged our friendship into the spot where that fits."

The cast had the opportunity to work alongside a menagerie of zoo animals. Crystal the Capuchin monkey is everybody's favorite co-star, who always stays on actor Patrick Fugit's shoulder. Actress Scarlett Johansson also stars in the film as an overworked zookeeper, struggling to keep the dilapidated business running.

"We Bought a Zoo" opens in worldwide theaters around new year.

Cruise tops box office with new 'Mission Impossible' film

2011-12-29T14:50:00.002+07:00

LOS ANGELES (AFP) - Tom Cruise's "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol" topped the North American box office over the long Christmas weekend, raking in $46.2 million, industry estimates showed Monday.

The action film, the fourth in the "MI" series, has thus far taken in $78.6 million, according to Exhibitor Relations -- showing that Cruise can still draw a major audience after several box office disappointments.

"Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows" -- a sequel to the 2009 film "Sherlock Holmes" about the character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle -- slipped from first to second place, taking in $31.8 million from Friday to Monday.

In third with $20 million was "Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked," the third animated film about the singing chipmunks.

The hotly anticipated "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" -- the Hollywood adaptation of the wildly popular Stieg Larsson novel, starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara -- took in $19.4 million in its debut weekend for fourth place.

Since its mid-week release, the film has grossed $27.7 million.

"The Adventures of Tintin," the story of the beloved Belgian boy reporter from director Steven Spielberg, came in fifth place with $16.1 million in US and Canadian ticket sales.

Family film "We Bought A Zoo" starring Matt Damon finished in sixth place, taking in $15.6 million, followed by "War Horse" -- also from Spielberg -- in seventh place at $15 million.

Thriller "The Darkest Hour" opened in eighth place with $5.5 million, and star-studded holiday romance "New Year's Eve" earned $4.95 million for ninth place.

Rounding out the top 10 was "The Descendants" starring George Clooney, which grossed $3.4 million over the four-day weekend.

Final figures were due out Tuesday.

Katy Perry named '1st artist of year'

2011-12-16T21:54:00.003+07:00

Singer Katy Perry arrives at the 2011 American Music Awards in Los Angeles November 20, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

NEW YORK — Katy Perry's run of No. 1 singles has earned her the distinction of becoming MTV's first artist of the year.

Perry topped Adele after a spirited discussion among MTV's internal panel of experts, the network said Thursday. Adele's "Rolling in the Deep" was chosen top song of 2011, said Amy Doyle, the network's chief of music programming.

MTV also declared Skrillex its electronic dance music artist of the year over David Guetta.

Different parts of MTV would make "best of" lists in the past, but the network wanted to establish a franchise that brought all its online and TV arms together and emphasized MTV's music roots, Doyle said. The network, established in 1981, hopes it becomes an annual thing.

Seven panelists made the final choice, and their deliberations were featured in MTV programming this week.

"Rolling in the Deep" was an obvious selection as top song, Doyle said. Runners-up were Nicki Minaj's "Super Bass" and Rihanna's "We Found Love."

"I loved the song the moment I wrote it," Adele said. "The melody and the beat added some conviction to it. I think that's why people connected with it."

Perry's achievement of tying Michael Jackson's "Bad" as the only albums to yield five No. 1 singles was particularly impressive, Doyle said. Along with the title cut, "California Gurls," ''E.T.," "Firework" and "Last Friday Night" (T.G.I.F.) all topped the charts. She's trying to beat the record with the current single "The One That Got Away."

"You just really felt her presence in pop culture throughout the year," Doyle said.

Skrillex, whose real name is Sonny Moore, describes his music as a combination of "dubstep, electro and glitch." MTV included the category of best electronic dance music artist to pay tribute to the way the style is taking off with its young viewers, she said.

MTV also asked its viewers to vote on their choice of the best live performances shown on MTV all year. Their choice was "Hurricane" by Thirty Seconds to Mars.

taken from : China Daily

Prince Harry's festive trip

2011-12-16T21:52:00.001+07:00

Britain's Prince Harry leaves after the marriage between Zara Phillips, the eldest granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth, and England rugby captain Mike Tindall at Canongate Kirk in Edinburgh, Scotland July 30, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Britain's Prince Harry enjoyed a trip to Winter Wonderland last night (14.12.11).

The 27-year-old royal almost managed to go unnoticed at the festive attraction in London's Hyde Park where he and friends visited the traditional Christmas markets but his distinctive red hair gave him away.

Fellow reveller Rachel Jones exclusively told BANG Showbiz: "Harry looked like he was having a great time with his friends, chatting and larking about as they wandered through Winter Wonderland. They just looked like a normal group of guys, you wouldn't have known he was a prince! It was only when he took off his baseball cap to scratch his head and I could see his red hair that I knew for definite that it was him."

Although Harry was polite and friendly, his bodyguards were nearby at all times.

Rachel added: "I tried to go over and have a photograph, but a security guard discreetly told me, 'No pictures.' Still, it was nice to see that he was able to have a fairly normal evening out with his mates."

Another Winter Wonderland visitor Paul Bowles took to twitter to write: "Smashed into prince harry on the dodgems last night. Top Guy just looked over and laughed. #princeharry #royalbanter (sic)."

Following his festive fun, Harry and friends dined at Jak's restaurant in South Kensington and then partied at Zefi bar before leaving in the early hours of the morning.

Twitter user @HWalesWatch wrote: "Prince Harry was at Jak's restaurant in Lon. tonight before drinks at Zefi while friend Nat. Pinkham partied down the street at BungaBunga (sic)."

Photographer Jesal Parshotam wrote on his twitter account @therealjesal:"#PrinceHarry brushed shoulders with a christmas tree as he left #zefi bar in kensignton Sw3 at 1.30am. He looked very festive (sic)."
taken from : China Daily

Britney buys motorbike for boyfriend

2011-12-16T21:51:00.001+07:00

Britney Spears has bought a $45,000 motorcycle for her boyfriend's birthday.

The 30-year-old pop star splashed out on the third generation X132 Hellcat from Confederate Motorcycles, along with a $940 leather jacket, for Jason Trawick, who turned 40 today (15.12.11).

Referring to the video for her single 'Criminal', she tweeted: "Hbday Jason! He looked so cool in the video, that I had to get him a new motorcycle. (sic)"

The 'Gimme More' hitmaker - who has sons Sean Preston, six, and Jayden James, five, with ex-husband Kevin Federline - had teased yesterday (14.12.11) that she had a special present for Jason.

She tweeted: "Poor Jason he has less than 5 hours left to be in his 30s. I have a big surprise for him tomorrow. Xxoo (sic)"

Confederate Motorcycles are thrilled that Britney chose to buy one of their custom-made vehicles, which will be delivered to the couple's Californian home in the coming weeks.

Clay Morrison, who works for the company, said: "I think she made the right choice.

"We couldn't be happier that she chose to share the finest motorcycle in the world with Jason!"

The company revealed that Britney will be one of the first celebrities to take delivery of the vehicle, but a host of famous faces - including Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, and Bruce Springsteen - own earlier models.
taken from : China Daily

Celine Dion owns '3,000 pairs of shoes'

2011-12-16T21:49:00.001+07:00

Celine Dion owns "about 3,000" pairs of shoes.

The 'My Heart Will Go On' singer is obsessed with footwear and admits she can't resist adding to her collection when she goes out shopping, but she doesn't feel guilty because it's her only real vice.

She said: "If you have, let's say, 600 pairs of shoes, you're considered a freak? I have about 3,000 pairs. Look, some people do drugs, and I buy shoes."

Celine feels very lucky to be able to buy expensive shoes and other luxuries and admits the spending power she now has and the lavish Florida estate she lives at with her husband Rene Angelil and their children - 10-year-old son Rene-Charles and 13-month-old twins Eddy and Nelson - is very different to the house she was raised in.

The 43-year-old star grew up in the French-speaking Canadian town of Charlemagne, Quebec, as the youngest of 14 siblings, but although her parents weren't financially wealthy she insists the house was full of love.

She told VanityFair.com: "I grew up in a very, very, very small house. "My mum was brilliant enough to put a pillow in a drawer for a baby to sleep in. We were safe and warm and taken care of. Three or four of us in the same bed was normal to us. We weren't poor, but we never had money. I don't know if that makes sense. We were given love and affection and support. What else did we need?"

Celine - who has sold millions of albums worldwide - acknowledges her fans are responsible for giving her such a great life and she is thankful that after 30 years people still want to come and see her perform.

She said: "My fans bought me my house. They bought my records ... I'm very fortunate, and people have bought my albums year after year, and they come to see the shows, and it's expensive, and they still come."
taken from : China Daily

Victoria Beckham craved pets

2011-12-13T22:50:00.001+07:00

Victoria Beckham craved animals when she was pregnant.

The fashion designer - who gave birth to daughter Harper in July - admits she became obsessed with wanting lots of pets but couldn't persuade husband David to let her get a cat.

Victoria - who also has three sons, Brooklyn, 12, Romeo, nine, and six-year-old Cruz, with the soccer star - said: "When I was pregnant, I just wanted to get lots and lots of animals, for some reason. We talked about cats, but David said absolutely not."

The 37-year-old star - who did manage to get David to agree to a new dog, Scarlett, during the pregnancy - also revealed she worked very hard to regain her figure following the birth of her much-longed for girl.

Victoria - who showcased her latest fashion collection at New York Fashion Week, just three months after Harper was born - told Britain's Elle magazine: "Oh, listen, I worked at it. I was breast-feeding, so I ate super healthy, and I worked out seven days a week. I wanted to burn all my leggings - I was adamant that by the time I went to fashion week I would be able to wear clothes."

taken from : China Daily

Scarlett Johansson hates exercise discipline

2011-12-13T22:48:00.001+07:00

Scarlett Johansson hates the "discipline" she needs to stay slim.

The 27-year-old actress works hard to maintain a slim physique, particularly for the tight-fitting catsuits she has to wear in her role as Black Widow in the forthcoming 'Avengers' movie, but does not enjoy the amount of time she has to spend in the gym so as not to worry too much about what she eats.

She said: "I hate having to be so disciplined, and I don't like to be told to do anything. Not that everyone's telling me what to do - they just expect me to arrive onset and not be fat.

"I exercise and eat well. I do it so I can indulge every now and then. I can have half a bottle of wine and not sit around thinking, oh my God, all those calories! However, when you're working and getting up at 4am to train for three hours every day, drinking isn't what you necessarily want to do. The discipline it takes to keep to that schedule sucks."

As well as disliking her intense exercise regime, Scarlett is not a fan of having to have red hair for the role because it is such a struggle to maintain.

She added in an interview with Australia's Daily Telegraph newspaper: "I'm done with red hair. It's so much upkeep. I don't want to be in the salon any more. I hate sitting there, the smell, the cape."

taken from : China Daily

Naked Lady Gaga sketch to be auctioned

2011-12-13T22:47:00.002+07:00

U.S. singer Lady Gaga performs after she received the Pop International Bambi award during the 63rd Bambi media awards ceremony in Wiesbaden, November 10, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Tony Bennett's naked sketch of Lady Gaga is being auctioned for charity.

The 'Marry the Night' singer recently posed nude so the 55-year-old crooner could draw pictures of her after they recorded a song for his 'Duets II' album, with the session captured by celebrity photographer Annie Leibovitz, and the drawing will now go be sold via internet auction site eBay.

Other items to go under the hammer include the accessories Gaga wore for Annie's photos - which appear in the current issue of Vanity Fair - including Mercura sunglasses, House of Lavande earrings, an Alexis Bittar ring and a pair of Brian Atwood shoes.

An original print of the Vanity Fair cover image of Gaga autographed by the photographer and a poster of the cover signed by the singer will also be sold to raise money for Exploring the Arts and the Born This Way Foundation.

Speaking previously about posing naked for Tony, Gaga, 25, said: "I walked in and said, 'Well Tony here we are,' and I dropped my robe and I got into position. I felt shy and thought, 'It's Tony Bennett, why am I naked?'

"Oh Tony he's so handsome. I feel terrible whenever his wife is around because he is so charming and such a gentleman."

taken from : China Daily

Game : The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

2011-12-13T11:51:00.011+07:00

Game : The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Distributors: Bethesda Softworks (retail), Steam (online)
Series: The Elder Scrolls
Platforms: Microsoft Windows PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Release dates: November 11, 2011 worldwide
Genres: Action Role-playing, Open World
Modes: Single-player (first-person and third-person view)
Ratings: ACB: MA15+, BBFC: 15, ESRB: M, OFLC: R13, PEGI: 18, USK: 16

Review :
by Andy Alderson

As part of a twelve step exercise in self-improvement, I have decided to begin this review with pure, uncensored (and no doubt unpopular) honesty. When I sat down to put in the first of many, many hours to Skyrim, my initial reaction was mild disappointment. In the time since Oblivion and Fallout 3, I’d hoped that Bethesda might have addressed some of the weaker parts of their RPG formula.

However, as I arrive in Skyrim’s Helgen en route to what appears to be my own execution, I move around for the first time and discover that, yes, the first-person engine still feels floaty and weightless, and yes, the third-person view is still a bit comical, with its unconvincing animations and tenuous bond between man and scenery. And, upon being thrown into combat for the first time, I discover that circling your target repeatedly while mashing the right trigger is still a bizarrely effective combat tactic. So far, so Oblivion.

However, the disappointment fades as quickly as it arrived. Before I know it, my brain is swimming in the beautifully-crafted lore of the Elder Scrolls series and I’m swept away into an epically complex tale of conflict, intrigue and morality, all the while marvelling at the wonderfully-realised world it all occurs in. This, I remember, is why I love Elder Scrolls games. And Skyrim, without a doubt, is the best yet – a triumphant benchmark in fantasy RPG gaming; a game dripping with narrative ambition and, above all else, freedom.

Skyrim’s story is set a good two hundred years after the events of Oblivion and finds the Empire divided. Following a war with the rather snooty High Elves (I mean seriously, unless you’re a perpetual stoner, describing yourself as ‘High’ is a bit much, isn’t it?), Skyrim’s native Nord race begin to question their inclusion in the Empire and a separatist movement emerges, led by Ulfric Stormcloak. In a moment of true heroism, or dastardly betrayal, depending on which side you favour, Ulfric does away with the high king of Skyrim and a civil war begins. Oh, and a long-extinct race of dragons seems to be returning with the intention of destroying everything, as if there wasn’t enough to get a bit stressy about.

You, however, are the Dragonborn, a mysterious type with the ability to destroy dragons and absorb their souls. There’s an ancient prophecy about you and everything (there’s always an ancient prophecy). The Dragonborn also has the ability to learn and perform shouts, the game’s major new supernatural power. While it may seem that shouting strangers into submission is exclusively the reserve of British stag parties abroad, it seems the shout is equally popular in Skyrim. Using ancient Nordic words of power, The Dragonborn can learn a variety of shouts, with a variety of results, all of which you’ll need to advance through the main quest.

And it’s a fantastic main quest. Steeped in ambiguity and intrigue, the excellent quest design in Skyrim means that you’re constantly thinking. There’s no black and white in Skyrim and nothing is simple. In a world so divided, you’re constantly being pushed towards one side or the other and Bethesda has crafted the narrative and lore so cunningly, so meticulously that you’re never quite sure to whom you owe your allegiance, if anyone at all. Because of this, decisions feel important. While it may be pushing things a little far to say that the NPCs in Skyrim are all three dimensional, there’s a refreshing moral ambiguity at play and so when you find someone that you like, you’re also aware that they may have some serious skeletons in their closet.

It’s rarely obvious who you can trust and so, when you do find yourself a loyal travelling companion, you form a bizarre bond with them. You’ll hear a lot about Lydia, for instance, who is just one of the characters you can choose to accompany you through the game. While I spent a considerable amount of time inventing new swearwords due to her ridiculous behaviour (AI is still an issue, which we’ll get to in a bit), I could not let her die. It was inconceivable. We were the Jack and Vera Duckworth of fantasy RPG gaming. However, your experience could be entirely different - you can choose to ignore companionship and go it completely alone in Skyrim as (and I’ll be hammering this point home today) freedom is the gift Bethesda offers you.

There is a seemingly endless variety of ways to play the game. You could choose to avoid the main quest entirely and concentrate on joining a faction, for instance (like the guilds in Oblivion). Or you could roll pimp style and focus on making some Benjamins. Or, and this proved to be my favourite (at least to begin with), you could explore the world realistically with no fast travel. This allows you to experience the sheer vastness and beauty of the game world as well as the tension and paranoia of being alone in the wilderness. The sense of relief as you reach the gates of a new city is palpable. Sanctuary. Find an inn, sleep, ask around, help some people. Like a medieval A-Team. Or, you could become Skyrim’s most evil motherhugger, razing each town you encounter and rinsing the world for everything you can get. It’s all about choice, just be aware that choice rarely comes without consequence in Skyrim.

While previous Bethesda RPGs have followed the same formula, it has never been to this extent. The developer has tweaked the core mechanics to place as few limits on the player as possible. Gone are the classes of Oblivion, replaced with a much more freeform skill system. You aren’t limited to choosing a class in the early stages of the game, thus restricting your play style. Instead, while each race has some unique attributes - my Wood Elf is more resistant to disease and can summon animals to help in combat, for example – all skill trees are open to you so you can shift direction at any point. Obviously, while the sheer amount of skills and perks on offer means that a jack of all trades-type won’t get you very far, it’s an impressive tweak to the game mechanic.

Other brilliant new additions to the formula are crafting, enchanting and alchemy. While Oblivion’s dungeon crawling rewarded you with new weapons throughout, and Skyrim does the same, you can also create your own weapons, armour and potions. Simply gather the appropriate materials, make sure you have the requisite skills and create away. It’s an utterly absorbing process which can come to dominate entire Skyrim play sessions. I have literally spent hours at a time creating/improving weapons, armour and potions before taking them out into Skyrim to experiment. It may sound like a waste of time, but you’ll inevitably end up doing the same.

The sum total of this almost endless freedom is more than enough to paper over the cracks. And there are a few cracks to be found. As I mentioned before, friendly AI can be infuriating as the spurious pathfinding means that your companion will often take the long way round, leaving you alone in battle at crucial moments. They also have a tendency to charge unwisely into dangerous situations. The phrase “Lydia, NO!” has been heard a lot in my flat over the last few weeks. While the AI is frustrating, the quest bugs are worse. Most involve scripted events in quests not triggering, meaning you’ll find yourself having to frustratingly reload prior save games to advance. However, anyone familiar with Bethesda’s RPGs will know to save frequently to avoid incidences of controller-biting rage.

And, of course, an open world Bethesda RPG means you will encounter framerate issues. Oblivion ran like a demotivated fat man whenever you ventured outside a dungeon and you’ll be glad to know that, on the 360 version at least, performance is better (which is no mean feat given the improvement in the visuals). However, there are still moments when the game slows to slide-show pace for seemingly no reason. By all accounts, it seems as if PS3 gamers have struggled even more with framerate issues, all of which Bethesda has resolved to sort out via patching.

While some will point to this as bad design, it’s hard too gripe too much at the developer when you consider the sheer enormity and ambition of Skyrim. This is a game that will consume hundreds of hours of your life and has a huge amount of replay value thanks to the Radiant AI system which dynamically generates some (but not all) quests in the game. This means there are likely to be significant differences between your experience and your friends and this is the true heart of Skyrim. The joy of reading game forums and telling others how you approached certain situations, comparing your experience with friends’. It’s the reason why the Skyrim thread will stay on page one of your favourite gaming forum for a long time to come. This is as close to open world nirvana as you can find.

The Elder Scrolls V : Skyrim Official Trailer

Source : totalvideogames

Katie Holmes has dance classes with Tom

2011-12-12T21:26:00.002+07:00

Katie Holmes makes Tom Cruise take dance classes with her.

The 49-year-old actor - who has five-year-old daughter Suri with the actress - says his spouse is responsible for him agreeing to star in forthcoming movie musical 'Rock of Ages' because she is always trying to instil a love of the performing arts in her family.

He said: "You're just as surprised as I am [that I'm in the movie]. Kate kept saying, 'You've got to make a musical.' The dancing of ['Tropic Thunder' character] Les Grossman is inspired because Kate is a dancer, she sings, and she would take us to dance classes.

"She would say, 'I've got this dance class for the family, come on we've got to do it, we've got hip-hop class, we've got to do it.' "

Tom plays 80s rocker Stacee Jaxx in the movie - which also stars Alex Baldwin, Catherine Zeta Jones, Mary J. Blige and Julianne Hough - and though the actor studied the musicians of the period, he insists his character is not based on anyone in particular.

He told MTV News: "I just kind of studied the whole time period and read a lot of books."

taken from : China Daily

Adele 'ready for love'

2011-12-12T21:24:00.001+07:00

Adele is "ready for love" again.

The 'Someone Like You' hitmaker - who documented painful break-ups in her multi-million selling albums '19' and '21' - admitted not having a special someone to share her success with has made her "miserable" at times.

She said: "Not having someone to share all this with made me miserable at times, to be honest. I wanted nothing more than to be in love and be loved back. That was until I remembered I was sharing it with millions and millions and millions of people!

"I haven't been ready to be in love again since summer 2009 ... until now. And I hadn't met anyone along the way who's changed that."

The 23-year-old singer explained the success of '21' became a "constant reminder" of her lost love, and just made her feel "bitter" and "sad" about the relationship.

Adele added in an online chat with Billboard: "I was bitter and sad. Obviously it was intensified because the record exploded, and it was a constant reminder of him that I couldn't avoid. But I hadn't met anyone else.

"I missed him because I didn't like feeling lonely and so I just kept going over and over the mistakes and resenting him and regretting our time together."

taken from : China Daily

Gaga gives a naughty and nice concert in NYC

2011-12-12T21:21:00.001+07:00

Lady Gaga poses during the 63rd Bambi media awards ceremony in Wiesbaden, November 10, 2011. Every year, the German media company 'Hubert Burda Media', honors celebrities from the world of entertainment, literature, sports and politics with the Bambi awards. [Photo/Agencies]

NEW YORK — Lady Gaga was in the Christmas spirit at Z100's annual Jingle Ball concert, but her version of "White Christmas" would have made Bing Crosby blush.

Gaga performed a slightly naughty rendition of the holiday classic Friday night as part of her mini-concert at the radio station's event at Madison Square Garden. Gaga — sporting tight studded leather pants, matching top and a bare midriff — gyrated on a set that included antlers, Christmas trees and holiday lights as she performed "White Christmas."

"So I recently added a couple of lyrics to this song because I think it's too short. It's like when you really start to enjoy it it stops. It's like a really bad orgasm. Merry Christmas New York!" she shouted. Later, she made a suggestive pose as she gave a come hither coo to Santa.

But her performance wasn't all saucy. She was nostalgic and appreciative as she thanked the radio station for allowing her to be the headliner of this year's show, which included performances from Kelly Clarkson, Demi Lovato, LMFAO, Pitbull, David Guetta, Foster the People, Hot Chelle Rae and more.

Gaga said her first concert as a young girl growing up in New York City was the Z100 Jingle Ball.

"I worked so hard and when I was 11 ... my mom got me tickets to Jingle Bell Ball," she said.

Gaga opened the Jingle Ball concert three years ago, she said: "I'll never forget there were a whole lot of superstars and no one knew who the hell I was. ... Some people thought I was going to be a one-hit wonder."

The singer, recently nominated for three Grammys, proved to be otherwise, and sang a few of her best-known songs, including "Telephone," ''Just Dance" and "Edge of Glory."

She opened her performance by singing between several Christmas trees; later, she performed on a keytar shaped like a Christmas tree, and she ended the night dressed in a hospital gown, re-enacting the theme of her latest video, "Marry the Night."

A portion of the evening's proceeds will go to "STOMP Out Bullying," a program designed to reduce and prevent bullying, a cause close to Gaga's heart. Earlier this week, she went to the White House to meet with officials about the matter.

"It's important to keep everybody safe in school," Gaga told the audience before launching into her inspirational anthem "Born This Way."

She also told her fans that she was happy to be in New York City during the holidays.

"This city gave birth to me and I will always come home," she said.

The concert will air Dec. 18 on the Fuse network.

taken from : China Daily

Jennifer Aniston voted Hottest Woman

2011-12-12T21:19:00.001+07:00

Jennifer Aniston has been named the Hottest Woman of All Time.

The 'Friends With Benefits' star - who is currently dating actor Justin Theroux - beat off competition from the likes of screen legend Marilyn Monroe, pop icon Madonna and Angelina Jolie, who raises six children with Jennifer's ex-husband Brad Pitt, to top the poll by MensHealth.com.

However, the 42-year-old beauty admitted French actress Bridgitte Bardot and feminist Gloria Steinem top her personal list.

She said: "It's a tie between Bridgitte Bardot and Gloria Steinem.

"But if I had to choose one, I'd say Gloria because, well, she's the full package. That's sexy."

The site added: "Funny is sexy, and Jennifer Aniston is funny. Her down-to-earth persona makes her seem attainable. And her all-too-human love life off screen inspires sympathy that not even a string of bland romantic comedies can diminish.

"Other sex symbols drift toward one-dimensionality, becoming flat icons in the process, but throughout her career Aniston has remained sexy, funny, and unmistakably real."

Meanwhile, Jennifer spoke out about what she finds attractive in a man and aside from great "abs", an "accurately sized ego" makes her tick.

She said: "Sexiest thing about a man-other than abs-is if he can make me laugh, has compassion, kindness, and an accurately sized ego."

MENSHEALTH.COM HOTTEST WOMEN OF ALL TIME TOP 10 2011

1. Jennifer Aniston

2. Raquel Welch

3. Marilyn Monroe

4. Britney Spears

5. Madonna

6. Ursula Andress

7. Bettie Page

8. Pamela Anderson

9. Jane Fonda

10. Angelina Jolie

taken from : China Daily

Julia Roberts is protective over Adele

2011-12-12T21:15:00.001+07:00

Julia Roberts has issued a strong warning to any man wishing to date Adele.

The 'Pretty Woman' actress is a huge fan of the 'Someone Like You' singer and has threatened to harm her next boyfriend if her treats her badly.

She told Entertainment Weekly: "Anybody that's going to date her is a brave, brave man. You're going to get a whole lot of love, but you'd better treat her right, or we're all coming after you."

Julia says the reason Adele, 23, has become a worldwide star is because people can relate to her and the pain and heartache she's going through.

She said: "Adele's music is so personal that you get invested in her life.

"When Adele had her health scare, I had random people saying to me, 'Oh my God, did you hear about Adele?'

"We feel like Adele's in our book club or she lives near us - that's a gift, to make people feel that way."

Meanwhile, Adele - who recently underwent throat surgery - has revealed she is going to take a couple of years to work on her third album, following the huge success of '19' and '21'.

She said: "I imagine I'll be 25 or 26 by the time my next record comes out, as I haven't even thought about my third record yet.

"I'm just going to lay some concrete, set up home and just 'be' for a bit. I'll disappear and come back with a record when it's good enough."

taken from : China Daily

Sarah Jessica Parker takes over at home

2011-12-12T21:13:00.001+07:00

Sarah Jessica Parker admits she should "let" her husband do more in their home.

The 'New Year's Eve' actress insists Matthew Broderick - with who she has son James Wilkie, nine, and two-year-old twins Marion and Tabitha - is very involved with family life but sometimes she can't help but take over their domestic tasks.

She said: "He helps a lot. There are things I could let him do more, but I just don't because it's my nature. But if I ask for help or he sees the need, he has his own instinct."

The 46-year-old actress also admitted she is sometimes a "disaster" when it comes to juggling work and family life.

She said: "I'm like many women - some days I'm victorious and some days it's a disaster.

"There's an enormous difference between what happens in my life and most working women. I can decide not to work when I want to and millions of women don't have that liberty."
taken from : China Daily

Royal lookalikes

2011-12-08T23:31:00.003+07:00

Lookalikes of Britain's Prince Harry and his sister-in-law Pippa Middleton pose in a pub during a media event to promote a new book by photographer Alison Jackson, in London December 7, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Lookalikes of Britain's Prince Harry and his sister-in-law Pippa Middleton pose in a pub during a media event to promote a new book by photographer Alison Jackson, in London December 7, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Lookalikes of Britain's Prince Harry and his sister-in-law Pippa Middleton pose in a park during a media event to promote a new book by photographer Alison Jackson, in London December 7, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Lookalikes of Britain's Prince Harry and his sister-in-law Pippa Middleton pose on a park bench during a media event to promote a new book by photographer Alison Jackson, in London December 7, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Lookalikes of Britain's Prince Harry and his sister-in-law Pippa Middleton pose outside a pub during a media event to promote a new book by photographer Alison Jackson, in London December 7, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

taken from : China Daily

Angelina Jolie hits back at lawsuit

2011-12-08T23:28:00.001+07:00

Angelina Jolie claims she has "never seen" the book she is alleged to have based 'In the Land of Blood and Honey' on.

The Oscar-winning actress - who is making her directorial debut with the Serbian love story - is being sued by Croatian journalist James Braddock for copyright violation, as he maintains the movie is an adaptation of his own book 'The Subject Work', which was published in 2007.

However, the star has dismissed the lawsuit as "par for the course" of directing a film.

She told the Los Angeles Times: "It's par for the course. It happens on almost every film.

"There are many books and documentaries that I did pull from. It's a combination of many people's stories. But that particular book I've never seen."

In a lawsuit filed in a federal court in Illinois, Mr. Braddock claims he met with producer Edin Sarkic - who is now working on Angelina's movie - several times throughout 2008 to discuss the possibility of his tome being adapted for the big screen.

He maintains the pair talked about the details of the book, which similarly to 'In the Land of Blood and Honey' documents the love story between a female prisoner and a Serbian soldier, "including plot and character development and the story's cultural significance and historical accuracy".

A judge will now have determine whether "the claimed obvious similarities meet the high threshold needed to prove copyright infringement".

Mr. Braddock is seeking an injunction to block the film's scheduled release on December 23, as well as unspecified damages.

taken from : China Daily

Daniel Radcliffe is EW's Entertainer of the Year

2011-12-08T23:26:00.001+07:00

Cast member Daniel Radcliffe arrives for the premiere of the film "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" in New York July 11, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

"Harry Potter" star Daniel Radcliffe was named Entertainment Weekly's "Entertainer of the Year" on Wednesday, capping a successful 2011 for the young actor.

Radcliffe, 22, took his final turn as the boy wizard in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2," the last installment of the film franchise, earlier this year.

The film crossed the $1 billion threshold at the global box office as fans rushed to see their favorite wizard battle evil for the last time.

The "Harry Potter" star also broke out of his magical role to take on Broadway in the musical "How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying," stepping into the shoes of stage veterans Robert Morse and Matthew Broderick and receiving positive critical reviews for his performance.

Radcliffe was joined on Entertainment Weekly's list by British singer Adele and "X-Men" actor Hugh Jackman. The full list will be available on newsstands on December 9.

taken from : China Daily

Lady Gaga receives Hero award

2011-12-07T00:11:00.001+07:00

Lady Gaga's has declared her Hero Award in recognition of her work with the LGBT community better than a Grammy.

The 'Marry the Night' hitmaker was honoured by the Trevor Project - a non-profit company that offers suicide-prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth - at their annual Trevor Live event in Los Angeles last night (04.12.11) and said it means more to her than receiving accolades for her music.

Accepting the prize at the star-studded event at The Hollywood Palladium, she said: "This means more to me than any Grammy I could ever win."

Gaga was presented with her award by the family of Jamey Rodemeyer, the New York teenager and huge Lady Gaga fan, who killed himself in September after enduring constant bullying over his sexuality.

Josh Duhamel and his wife Fergie, LeAnn Rimes and husband Eddie Cibrian, 'Glee's Chris Colfer, Darren Criss, Dianna Agron and Amber Riley and 'Footloose' Julianne Hough were all in attendance.

Openly gay 'Star Trek' hunk Zachary Quinto and lesbian actress Amber Heard were also recognised for raising awareness of equal rights.

Zachary wrote on twitter: "Such a moving and inspiring evening at trevor live with TrevorProject and many friends! enormous heaps of gratitude! (sic)"

Performers included Neil Patrick Harris and partner David Burtka, Miley Cyrus, Mary J. Blige and Queen Latifah.

taken from : China Daily

'Sexy goddess' Kristen Stewart

2011-12-07T00:10:00.002+07:00

Robert Pattinson thinks Kristen Stewart is a "sexy goddess".

The 25-year-old actor - who is dating his 'Twilight Saga' co-star off-screen - admitted Kristen looked "amazing" when her alter-ego Bella Swann turned into a blood-sucking "vampire queen" during the latest film in the franchise.

He said: "She was a sexy goddess. She looked amazing. It was funny because Bella is that girl that is always tripping on things, and then, she turns into this elegant woman, like a vampire queen.

"Kristen had the best twist in the plot!"

However, Robert - who plays vampire Edward Cullen in 'Twilight' - admitted the couple's on-screen sex scene was far from easy because there were so many crew members who wanted to have a say in how the pair's intimacy panned out.

He added in an interview with Brazil's Capricho magazine: "I was trying to do a sex scene and there was huge guy lying on the floor, looking at me and telling me what to do.

"The hardest thing was that, in normal movies, when you're doing a sex scene, people don't pressure you a lot because the director doesn't want to intervene and suggest how he would do that.

"But in 'Breaking Dawn', it was different, there was too much expectation. How to make all the people that were waiting for that moment happy."
taken from : China Daily

Victoria Beckham inspired by kids 'every day'

2011-12-07T00:07:00.001+07:00

Victoria Beckham is inspired by her children "every day".

The fashion designer - who has four kids, Brooklyn, 12, Romeo, nine, Cruz, six, and four-month-old Harper, with her soccer star husband David - says being a mother gives her the inspiration needed for her work, while spouse David gives her the support she desires.

Speaking at the British Fashion Awards - where her clothing line won Designer Brand of the Year - Victoria said: "David is my rock. He encourages me and gives me the confidence to do what I do and my kids inspire me every day. And my mum and dad were here, which was fantastic. I love them all so, so much. My family means everything to me."

Victoria - who lives with her family in Los Angeles - was accompanied to London by daughter Harper but says she wishes all her children could have gone with her.

She told Britain's HELLO! magazine: "Harper comes everywhere with me. All the kids would come everywhere with me but the boys have to be at school."

Victoria recently revealed she is "in love" with all her four children and loves being a mother as they bring so much joy to her life.

The 37-year-old star said: "Harper is absolutely amazing. But I am in love with all of my children. They are all wonderful."

taken from : China Daily

Angelina Jolie sued for copyright

2011-12-07T00:05:00.002+07:00

Angelina Jolie is being sued for copyright violation.

Croatian journalist James Braddock claims the Oscar-winning actress' upcoming directorial debut 'In the Land of Blood and Honey' is based on his book 'The Subject Work', which he published in 2007.

In a lawsuit filed in a federal court in Illinois, Mr. Braddock claims he met with producer Edin Sarkic - who is now working on Angelina's movie - several times throughout 2008 to discuss the possibility of his tome being adapted for the big screen, X17 reports.

He maintains the pair talked about the details of the book, which similarly to 'In the Land of Blood and Honey' documents the love story between a female prisoner and a Serbian soldier, "including plot and character development and the story's cultural significance and historical accuracy".

A judge will now have determine whether "the claimed obvious similarities meet the high threshold needed to prove copyright infringement".

Mr. Braddock is seeking an injunction to block the film's scheduled release on December 23, as well as unspecified damages.

This is the latest blow for Angelina, as she and partner Brad Pitt are also being sued for $87,566 in an unfair dismissal case by their former secretary Ana Charlotiaux, who worked at the couple's Chateau Miraval estate in the South of France until February 2010.

At a recent hearing, Ana's lawyer Emmanuel Ludot said: "She is not asking for much - just fair compensation for wrongful dismissal.

"This money is a drop in the ocean for these stars. She has nothing against them personally, and says she was always treated well by them, but they did not step in to prevent her being dismissed."

taken from : China Daily

Demi Moore dating again after split

2011-12-02T20:41:00.001+07:00

Demi Moore is reportedly dating beauty mogul Scott-Vincent Borba.

The 'Ghost' actress' - who announced her split from husband Ashton Kutcher last month - has grown close to Scott over the past few weeks and the pair decided to take their friendship further last week.

A source said: "Demi and Scott-Vincent started dating last week. They have known each other a long time and he's really been there for her by her side through the whole Ashton thing."

Scott - who is in his mid-30s and co-founded BORBA skin care products - is said to be smitten with 49-year-old Demi and isn't star-struck by her as he works with many celebrities.

The source added to RadarOnline.com: "It's easy for Scott-Vincent to keep his relationships a secret because he's so often photographed hanging out with celebrity clientele. But he's head over heels for Demi and there's definitely potential for a lasting relationship between them."

Demi - who has three daughters with first husband Bruce Willis - announced she was ending her six-year marriage to Ashton last month after he was accused of cheating on her in September.

She said in a statement: "It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I have decided to end my six-year marriage to Ashton. As a woman, a mother and a wife there are certain values and vows that I hold sacred, and it is in this spirit that I have chosen to move forward with my life. This is a trying time for me and my family, and so I would ask for the same compassion and privacy that you would give to anyone going through a similar situation."

taken from : China Daily

Brad Pitt comforts suicidal fan

2011-12-02T20:39:00.001+07:00

U.S. actor Brad Pitt waves during a news conference to promote his film "Moneyball" in Tokyo November 10, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Brad Pitt comforted a suicidal fan following a special screening of his new movie 'Moneyball'.

The 47-year-old Hollywood star was initially shocked when the aspiring actor revealed at a special Q&A for the movie that he had been struggling with suicidal thoughts earlier in the day and said the baseball biopic gave him "a renewed sense of hope" but Brad quickly recovered and offered some words of wisdom to the man.

A source told USmagazine.com: "Brad said 'Look, man, life is up and down, it's a vicious cycle, but you have to go through it and deal with that. You can be down, but then you come back up again, and every failure can lead to success'.

"Brad handled the situation really well in front of several hundred people - it was a difficult moment that shocked everyone."

Another insider added: "It was a touching moment. As he left he even stopped to talk with the guy to offer him some more words of encouragement because he was obviously fragile."

taken from : China Daily

Britney Spears admires Jennifer Lopez

2011-12-02T20:36:00.001+07:00

Britney Spears' beauty icon is Jennifer Lopez.

The 'Toxic' singer says she's a huge fan of the 'American Idol' judge and thinks the 42-year-old star just gets better and better with age.

She said: "Jennifer Lopez is my idol - she's so beautiful and even though she's gotten older, she hasn't aged at all. She looks more amazing than ever and I really admire and respect that."

Britney, 29, also says she takes beauty advice from her mother, Lynne, and gets tips to keep her skin looking good, which include drinking water and uses lost of creams.

She told Now magazine: "My mom's very into her skincare and making sure she has the right cream. It's important to experiment with different creams as we get older5, so she's always showing me the upcoming products, which is pretty cool. One of her skin secrets is making sure she gets lots of rest and water."

taken from : China Daily

Look who is back in Scandal

2011-12-02T19:58:00.003+07:00

TALENTED: Luthuli Dlamini

Dec 2, 2011 | Patience Bambalele

"It's good to be back again" PLUS what happens to Stan

TELEVISION and film actor Luthuli Dlamini is back in the e.tv soapie Scandal after a two-year break.

Dlamini, who portrays business mogul Stan Nyathi, will start appearing on television on December 14.

He disappeared from the small screes when his character went to England, leaving his brother Daniel - Sello Maake kaNcube - in charge of the business.

Dlamini says the return of Stan will stir things up for Daniel, who is enjoying the power at the moment.

"Daniel has been enjoying power alone and the return of Stan will limit his freedom."

Born in Zimbabwe and raised in England, Dlamini moved to South Africa after finishing school to estab-lish himself as an actor.

He says his return to the soapie is well-timed.

"It is good to be back again and see old friends and cast members," he says. "I see Rami Chuene is also back. I am already enjoying myself. I took a break to focus on others things. I have been acting in films and a drama series. I have been writing a lot but my projects have not received enough funding."

While in England Stan discovered that he was not the father of his only son, Mangi, whom he raised. His brother Daniel fathered Mangi.

Dlamini says things will be difficult for Stan as he tries to find his feet and make sense of everything that is happening.

The talented actor has made numerous television appearances in shows such as Drum, Snitch, Generations, Isidingo, Justice For All and The Res, before landing the lead role in Scandal.

He has played the leading role of Tombo Mbuli in the M-Net sitcom The Coconuts. Early this year he starred in the green consumerism show Greenline, on SABC3.

source : sowetanlive.co.za

Tom Cruise on new world-saving mission impossible

2011-12-02T19:51:00.002+07:00

Cast members Paula Patton (L) and Tom Cruise pose at a promotional event for their latest film ''Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol'' in Tokyo December 1, 2011. Reuters/Kim Kyung-Hoon

By Kaori Kaneko

Thu Dec 1, 2011 3:57pm EST

TOKYO, Dec 1 - Tom Cruise kicked off the rollout of the fourth installment of his "Mission Impossible" franchise with a limited fan screening in Japan on Thursday ahead of its official world premiere next week.

Cruise, 49, returns as super-agent Ethan Hunt saving the world yet again in "Mission Impossible - Ghost Protocol," packed with stunts and action scenes, some featuring the world's tallest building -- Dubai's Burj Khalifa.

In the latest in the series of blockbusters that has grossed nearly $1.5 billion worldwide, Impossible Mission Force (IMF) operative Hunt and fellow agents are blamed for a terrorist bombing of the Kremlin and are forced to run.

The agency is dissolved and the group -- without any resources or backup -- must find a way to clear the agency's name, prevent another attack and avert a nuclear war.

Major parts of the film were shot in Dubai, where it will officially open on December 7, while the action also takes Hunt to Moscow, Budapest and Mumbai.

Paramount Pictures, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc., said Cruise chose to start the film's tour in Tokyo ahead of the Dubai splash as a gesture to his Japanese fans and the nation that suffered so much from the March 11 earthquake, tsunami and the ensuing nuclear crisis.

"I know this country has been through lots this year," he said after attending a red carpet event where some 1,500 noisy fans braved the cold to see him.

"But I also know the strength and courage of this country and I know you will get through it. And I want you to know how much we love you and the world is thinking of you, and we are here."

Misao Otsu, a 48-year-old who runs a company trading in cosmetic products, praised Cruise for his work ethic.

"I always go to see these (Mission Impossible) movies on opening day," she said. "I want the series to continue. What Tom does is beyond what a human being can do."

The film will be released in Japan on December 16 and in the United States on December 21 with theatrical releases around the world staggered over several weeks.

Two-time Academy Award winner Brad Bird directed the film and the cast includes Jeremy Renner, nominated for an Oscar for his role in the 2008 war film "The Hurt Locker."

Bird won the Oscars for animated films "The Incredibles" and "Ratatouille."

Cruise is producing the film with J.J. Abrams who last teamed up with the actor in 2006 for "Mission Impossible III."

(Writing by Kaori Kaneko and Tomasz Janowski; Editing by Mike Collett-White)

Justin Bieber wants family Christmas

2011-12-01T18:45:00.001+07:00

Justin Bieber wants to spend Christmas with his family.

The 17-year-old popstar revealed he doesn't want expensive gifts for the holidays but instead he hopes to get some time off to spend with his loved ones in Canada.

He told Hollywood Teen TV: "For this Christmas, I just want to be with my family. I don't really have any requests, except for socks and underwear because I just run out of them a lot."

Justin - who was born in London, Ontario and grew up in Stratford, Ontario - has previously revealed he is keen to return to his native country when he is a bit older and ready to start a family.

He said: "I think it would be cool to get a condo out here in LA, but eventually I'll probably want to move back to Canada and raise my family. Why? I dunno, I'm Canadian, I feel like I want my kids to be Canadian."

taken from : China Daily

Kanye West gets 7 Grammy noms

2011-12-01T18:44:00.002+07:00

Rappers Kanye West (L) and Jay-Z perform during the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show at the Lexington Armory in New York November 9, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Adele scored six Grammy nominations on Wednesday, including for record, song and album of the year, but the owner of the 2011's best-selling album with "21" wasn't the night's top nominee — and that wasn't the evening's only surprise.

Kanye West came away with a leading seven nominations, including a bid for song of the year for his all-star song "All of the Lights." However, the album from which it came — "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy," heralded by many critics as the best album of 2010 — was not in the best album category, and all of his other nominations were relegated to the rap fields.

Other notable omissions in the top categories included country phenomenon Taylor Swift and veteran crooner Tony Bennett.

Bruno Mars and the Foo Fighters tied Adele with six nominations each, including in the album of the year category. Lil Wayne had five nods and critical-darling folky act Bon Iver scored four nominations, with two in the prestigious record and song of the year categories. But dubstep star Skrillex may have been the night's biggest surprise, getting five nominations, including a bid for best new artist.

"It feels incredible. Me and these guys, we locked ourselves in the studio not too far from here and worked on this album, especially 'Grenade,'" Mars said after the nominations were announced. "That's the song we worked the hardest on. That's like our trophy right there. Of all the songs we've been fortunate enough to be a part of this year, we were most proud of that one."

The nominations were announced after the Recording Academy's fourth annual live concert special, which aired on CBS from the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles. The hour-long event featured key nominees like Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj and the Band Perry.

Even though Adele didn't get the lion's share of nominations, she got them where it counted: Her "21," the mournful post-breakup album that produced smash hits like the torch ballad "Someone Like You" — was nominated for album of the year. The searing groove "Rolling in the Deep," which spent seven weeks at No. 1 this past summer, got nominations for both record and song of the year. Only Mars got nominations in all three categories as well.

Other nominees in the record of the year category included Bon Iver's ballad "Holocene"; Mars' ballad "Grenade"; Mumford & Sons' "The Cave"; and Katy Perry's inspirational anthem "Firework." For song of the year, which honors the writers of the tune, contenders included "The Cave," ''Grenade, "Holocene" and Lady Gaga's "You and I."

The best album category was as noteworthy for who was excluded as it was for who was nominated. Lady Gaga garnered her third straight nod in the category for "Born This Way," while veteran rockers the Foo Fighters were nominated for "Wasting Light," along with Mars' debut album, "Doo-Wops & Hooligans," and Rihanna's steamy dance album "Loud."

Shut out were perceived favorites like 85-year-old Bennett, who became the oldest person to score a No. 1 debut when his "Duets II" album was released earlier this year, and the megawatt collaboration of Jay-Z and West with the heavily hyped "Watch The Throne."

The biggest snub may have been to Swift, who won in the category in 2010 and was considered by some critics to be a favorite for "Speak Now," which has sold 3.7 million copies. She did get three nominations, however, including for best country album.

(Another blonde diva, Beyonce, merited just two nominations in lesser categories).

Unlike the past two years, which saw Swift and fellow country act Lady Antebellum soar in the general categories, the only country act that got a mainstream nomination was the country sibling act The Band Perry. Best known for their poignant ballad "If I Die Young," they got a nomination for best new artist.

"It's been an amazing evening," said lead singer Kimberly Perry. "We got the good news yesterday that our debut album went platinum, it was certified yesterday, to so follow it with a nomination tonight is phenomenal. We're just in the clouds, absolutely."

Their competition also includes Bon Iver, Jay-Z rap protege J. Cole, Skrillex and rapper-singer Nicki Minaj, who scored four nominations in total.

The 54th Grammys will be held Feb. 12 in Los Angeles. The ceremony will mark the first since the academy shaved its categories from 109 to 78 this year, amid some protest. Some of the more niched categories, like best Zydeco or Cajun music album, were eliminated.

In addition, men and women now compete together in vocal categories for pop, R&B and country, instead of having separate categories for each sex. This year, the category is best pop solo performance and Bruno Mars is the only man nominated for "Grenade." His competition includes Adele for "Someone Like You," Lady Gaga for "You and I," Pink for "(Expletive) Perfect" and Perry for "Firework."
taken from : China Daily

Art collector Blake Lively

2011-12-01T18:41:00.001+07:00

Blake Lively loves collecting art.

The 'Gossip Girl' star has been a huge fan of paintings ever since her brother Eric encouraged her to start her own collection and revealed she now always buys new art when she is away on location filming.

She explained to Artlog: "My brother Eric thought it was important for me to collect art and have an awareness of it at a young age. He took me to an exhibit by Sage Vaughn at a warehouse in downtown Los Angeles and bought me my first piece. That experience ignited a hunger to see more art and collect it however I could.

"I always try to buy things when I travel as a reminder of the trip and time spent in a city. When I was working in New Orleans for four months, I bought a chair and a painting of Audrey Hepburn by local artist Sarah Ashley Longshore."

While Blake's collection is varied, she admits she is drawn to a certain type of art.

She said: "I've found that I'm often drawn to pieces that portray a childish imagination with a malevolent undertone, like the moment on the boat in Willy Wonka when all the fantasy turns on itself into the unexpected. In every piece I own there is a sense of celebration, whether in image, context, or shade."
taken from : China Daily

Madonna settles neighbor's suit

2011-12-01T18:38:00.001+07:00

Director Madonna arrives for the gala screening of her film W.E. during the BFI London Film Festival at Leicester Square in London October 23, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

NEW YORK — Madonna has made peace with a neighbor who said the superstar made noise by using her New York City apartment as a rehearsal studio, lawyers involved in the matter said Wednesday.

Court records showed Karen George's lawsuit against the singer and their building was settled as of Wednesday. Lawyers for Madonna and the building's co-op board would say only the matter was resolved. George's attorney didn't immediately return a call.

George, whose apartment is upstairs from Madonna's in a building overlooking Central Park, had said the dance and exercise routines subjected neighbors to "blaring music, stomping and shaking walls" for up to three hours a day. George was driven from her apartment at times by the "unbearable" noise and vibrations, according to her lawsuit, filed in 2009. It sought unspecified damages.

Madonna took steps to dampen the sound in 2009, but George said they didn't work, according to an August court ruling that turned down the singer's effort to dismiss the lawsuit. George had said the building board acknowledged her complaints but ultimately didn't crack down because it didn't want trouble with Madonna.

Madonna and the board had said the noise never topped legal levels. The singer also said this March she'd built a studio elsewhere and wasn't using the apartment for musical moves anymore.

Madonna moved into the building after she was rejected in 1985 by the board at another ritzy Manhattan co-op, the San Remo, where U2 frontman Bono has an apartment.

taken from : China Daily

Kris Humphries Seeks Annulment from Kim Kardashian, Claims 'Fraud'

2011-12-01T18:19:00.003+07:00

Kris Humphries and Kim Kardashian

By Jennifer Garcia and Mike Fleeman

Was it all just a TV show?

Kris Humphries filed Wednesday for an annulment from Kim Kardashian, seeking to erase his 72-day marriage on the grounds of fraud.

Even though the pair have a prenuptial agreement and no children, the NBA player is now set up for a possible legal fight with the reality starlet, who has filed for divorce.

"There's a clear conflict if one spouse is seeking a divorce, but the other wants an annulment," says family law attorney Scott Weston, who is not involved in the case. "A judge will have to decide which to allow, which could take many months."

But a source close to Kardashian says that a battle may be avoided.

"She always wanted an annulment but attorneys were against it so she's happy that both parties agree now," says the source.

In his Superior Court filing, Humphries marks the box reading "nullity of voidable marriage" and checks as the basis the box saying "fraud."

Under California law, a nullity is granted if the court finds that no valid marriage ever occurred. Along with fraud, grounds for an annulment include bigamy, incest, force or if the couple are under the age of consent.

Humphries's papers say that if he's denied an annulment then he wants a legal separation – not a divorce.

Humphries and Kardashian do agree on one point: the date of separation, which he also lists as Oct. 31.

After a whirlwind three-month engagement, the pair were married in a lavish ceremony filmed for Kardashian's show on E!.

Source : www.people.com

Harper Beckham's luxurious tights

2011-11-29T14:29:00.002+07:00

Harper Beckham has been spotted in $50 tights.

The four-month-old daughter of David and Victoria Beckham was spotted in Los Angeles LAX airport with her mother yesterday (27.11.11) and the designer Chloe logo was clearly visible on her legwear, which was teamed with a purple striped dress and hair bow.

Victoria and Harper were flying out to London for tonight's (28.11.11) British Fashion Awards.

The former Spice Girls star is nominated for Designer Brand of the Year at the ceremony, which takes place at the Savoy Hotel in London.

Meanwhile, David - who also has sons Brooklyn, 12, Romeo, nine, and six-year-old Cruz with Victoria - has admitted he gets "excited" buying new outfits for Harper.

He told Us Weekly magazine: "I didn't know how excited I would get over buying hair bows. She has so many little dresses!"

Victoria has previously admitted she finds it "hard" being a working mother.

Speaking shortly before she gave birth to Harper, she said: "Maternity leave - what's that? I've been working incredibly hard so I'm prepared for next season.

"Being a working mum is hard - I think women can relate to me when I say it's like juggling glass balls.

"My husband and children will always be my priority. But for me, what I do professionally doesn't feel like a job - it's my passion."

taken from : China Daily

Scarlett Johansson stays away from twitter

2011-11-29T14:27:00.003+07:00

Scarlett Johansson won't go on twitter because she wants to keep her personal life private.

The 27-year-old actress is determined to keep certain things in her life secret from the public and has made a decision to avoid social media sites to maintain her stance.

Speaking to Huffington Post founder Arianna Huffington for Interview magazine, she said: "I don't have a Facebook or a twitter account, and I don't know how I feel about this idea of, `Now, I'm eating dinner, and I want everyone to know that I'm having dinner at this time,' or `I just mailed a letter and dropped off my kids.' That, to me, is a very strange phenomenon. I can't think of anything I'd rather do less than have to continuously share details of my everyday life."

Scarlett - who is divorced from Ryan Reynolds - is shocked by how many of her acting contemporaries choose to share so much of their lives via social media.

She added: "I guess they use it in a way that works for them. But I'd rather that people had less access to my personal life. If I could keep it that way, I'd be a happy lady."

The 'We Bought A Zoo' star took legal action earlier this year after nude photos of her emerged online.

Hacker Christopher Chaney, 35, was arrested for stealing the images from the actress and other celebrities including Mila Kunis and Vanessa Hudgens and was charged with 26 counts of identity theft, unauthorised access to a protected computer and wiretapping. He faces up to 121 years in prison if he's convicted.

taken from : China Daily

Daniel Craig to protect his marriage

2011-11-29T14:24:00.003+07:00

Daniel Craig didn't want his wedding to Rachel Weisz to become "f***ed up" by making it public.

The 'James Bond' actor - who tied the knot with the actress at a private New York ceremony in June with only four guests present - admitted the couple wanted to formalise their union for "private reasons" and didn't feel the need to share it with anyone else.

He said: "We got away with it. We did it privately. And we've got a lot of people to thank for that. But that was the point. We did it for private reasons. Because we didn't want it f***ed up, because that would be sharing a secret.

"And the whole point is that it was a secret. A secret is a secret in my mind."

The 43-year-old star - who met Rachel on the set of 'Dream House' late last year - explained married life is so far "very happy" and he is hoping to be in the relationship for the "long run".

In an interview with the UK edition of GQ magazine, Daniel added: "I'm in love, I'm very happy. And that is as far as I'm prepared to go. Life is long, life goes wrong and I don't want to say something now that might be thrown back later.

"Ultimately, people are saying, 'Give it six months.' Well guess what? I'm not responding. Life is long and I am hopefully in this for the long run."

taken from : China Daily

Robert Pattinson embarrassed about faking orgasm

2011-11-29T14:22:00.003+07:00

Robert Pattinson says faking an orgasm for 'The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1' was "embarrassing".

The hunky actor filmed a sex scene with real-life girlfriend Kristen Stewart for the vampire movie, and although he was happy with the result, he admitted having the entire crew watch as they shot the sequence wasn't a pleasant experience.

He told Espectacular TV: "We were staring into the camera doing orgasm faces and stuff and it becomes unbelievably embarrassing. But I think it ended up good at the end I think."

Robert has previously revealed he wanted more "thrusting" in the sex scene.

He explained: "It wasn't me, it was Kristen. I'm still doing the same thing, the general movement. Normally you have problems with ratings like nudity, but this was literally about the movement. Thrusting! They kept telling me not to move.

"They wanted to have a leash so you couldn't thrust past a certain point. Just the tip or something! That doesn't mean anything; it's just a figure of speech. I mean, they want to see thrusting, not probing."

taken from : China Daily

Kitchen queen Britney Spears

2011-11-28T22:09:00.001+07:00

Singer Britney Spears arrives at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles August 28, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Britney Spears loves her kitchen.

The 29-year-old singer - who has sons Sean Preston, six, and Jayden James, five, with ex-husband Kevin Federline - has a "very traditional" home and says she spends most times in the room where meals are prepared.

She said: "My house is very traditional. And I love 'shabby chic'. It's a very homey-cosy vibe.

"We spend a lot of time in the kitchen actually, maybe my kids will be doing their homework or that kind of thing when they get home from school. I love my kitchen."

When she isn't working, Britney - who is dating her former agent Jason Trawick - enjoys relaxing by watching movies with her sons, even if they don't always understand what they are seeing isn't real.

She told Stylist magazine: "The last film I saw was 'The Never Ending Story' with my children. They liked it but they were scared in places. They were like, 'This is scary, we don't want to watch this. And I was like, 'It's not scary, it's fake, it's a movie.'

"They haven't really grasped the concept that movies are fake - they always say, 'Is this real?' and I'm like, 'No baby - it's just a movie.' But they liked it."

taken from : China Daily

Pitt and Jolie to adopt again

2011-11-28T22:05:00.002+07:00

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie want to adopt another child.

The couple - who currently have biological kids Shiloh, five, and three-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne and adopted trio Maddox, 10, Pax, seven, and six-year-old Zahara - reportedly promised their adopted daughter they would take on the care of another youngster from Ethiopia, the poverty-stricken African nation where she was born.

A source said: "They are really excited about it. Brad and Angie made a promise to Zahara years ago that they would adopt another child from the region so she could have a sibling to relate to."

The couple are also said to believe having seven kids will bring them more "luck and happiness".

The source added to the Daily Star newspaper: "Also, seven has always been Brad's lucky number. He and Angelina think it would bring them luck and happiness."

Brad has previously admitted he always wanted to raise a large family.

He has said: "I know it seems extreme from the outside, but I've always kind of operated this way. When I know, I know, and why mess around?

"I had a friend who had a big family when I was a kid. I just loved the chaos around the breakfast table and the fighting and the ribbing, and the mom making pancakes for everyone or the dad making pancakes. And I just decided then if I was ever going to do it - this left some indelible mark on me - if I was ever going to do it, that's the way I was going to do it."

taken from : China Daily

Lady Gaga posed nude for Tony Bennett

2011-11-28T22:03:00.002+07:00

Lady Gaga stripped off naked so Tony Bennett could sketch her.

The 'Mary the Night' singer has revealed she posed nude so the 55-year-old crooner could draw pictures of her and the idea was conceived by renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz.

Speaking about the experience on CBS TV special 'A Very Gaga Thanksgiving' which aired last night (24.11.11), she said: "I walked in and said, 'Well Tony here we are,' and I dropped my robe and I got into position. I felt shy and thought, 'It's Tony Bennett, why am I naked?' "

The pictures that Tony sketched of Gaga, 25, will be published in Vanity Fair magazine next year.

At the beginning of the holiday show, the two singers performed 'The Lady Is A Tramp' - the track they recorded together for Tony's album 'Duets II' - together, and later Gaga admitted she has a special connection with Tony.

She gushed: "Oh Tony he's so handsome. I feel terrible whenever his wife is around because he is so charming and such a gentleman."

And it appears the feeling is mutual with the 'I Left My Heart in San Francisco' singer saying: "She is the most beautiful person I ever met but there is something very special about her."

In an interview with Katie Couric for the programme, Gaga revealed she hates to talk about her romantic life and when she eventually gets married she insists won't reveal any details of her nuptials.

The pop superstar said: "My love life is the only thing I don't talk about. The day I get married, no matter how many helicopters are flying over that chapel, they are not getting one picture.

"I don't know how artists do it. Talk about their lives and marriages and divorces and boyfriends. It's sacred in a different way and I would rather reveal it in a poetic way."

Gaga also performed several hits for her TV special including 'Edge of Glory', 'Born This Way', and 'Hair'.

taken from : China Daily

Duchess Catherine taking tips from Camilla

2011-11-28T22:01:00.001+07:00

Britain's Duchess Catherine is taking beauty tips from her stepmother-in-law.

The newest member of the royal family - who married Prince William in April - has been receiving treatments from Deborah Mitchell after Duchess Camilla, the wife of Prince Charles, recommended the beautician's bee sting facial.

A source told the Mail on Sunday newspaper: "Deborah has been treating Camilla for six years now. Like any customer who finds something good, Camilla has told her friends and in-laws, including Kate. Now she visits the Royal Family wherever they are in residence. They are lovely to her."

As well as her treatments, Deborah is known for her bee venom mask - which contains manuka honey, shea butter, rose and lavender essential oils, a "secret" ingredient and around one per cent bee venom - which tricks the skin's surface into thinking it has been stung, increasing blood flow, collagen and elasticity.

Famous fans of the product are said to include Victoria Beckham, Michelle Preiffer and Kylie Minogue.

Deborah said: "They were discovering the more they did Botox, the more their faces did not match their body language and viewers found them difficult to trust.

"This pushes out those wrinkles and gives a smooth, supple look and feel to the skin - as opposed to the frozen-face look associated with Botox."

Deborah, 46, refused to discuss her relationship with Camilla and Catherine.

She said: "I'm afraid I cannot talk about that."

taken from : China Daily

George Clooney named as witness at Berlusconi sex trial

2011-11-24T21:30:00.002+07:00

Cast member George Clooney is interviewed at the premiere of "The Descendants" at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills, California November 15, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

MILAN - George Clooney will be called as a defense witness at former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's trial on charges he paid for sex with a minor, court officials said Wednesday.

The Oscar-winner was among 214 witnesses admitted by a Milan court for the defense and prosecution. Witnesses for the defense also include footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and Clooney's former girlfriend, Elisabetta Canalis.

Berlusconi is accused of paying Karima el Mahroug, also known as Ruby, for sex when she was 17. The 75-year-old is also charged with abuse of power for getting the Moroccan-born Ruby released from custody after she was arrested for theft in Milan.

They both deny the accusations.

Berlusconi's defense has called Clooney as a witness because Ruby said she had seen the actor and Canalis at one of Berlusconi's parties.

The trial was adjourned until December 2 and it was not clear when Clooney would take to the witness stand.

taken from : China Daily

Gaga launches holiday workshop at Barney's

2011-11-24T21:24:00.002+07:00

Singer Lady Gaga appears at a ribbon cutting ceremony to launch Gaga's Workshop at Barneys department store in New York November 21, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

NEW YORK -- Move over, Santa, there's a new colorful dresser in town.

Barneys has gone gaga, as in Lady Gaga, this holiday season with an in-store boutique, a website and several of its famous store windows all given over to the pop star phenomenon.

The tony retailer launched a "12 Days of Gaga" promotion, with different limited-edition items ranging from jewelry to candy to toys available each day on gagasworkshop.com, in advance of this week's opening of its in-store boutique.

A set of acrylic Gaga rings is priced at $18, while $285 will get you a pair of spiked leather moto fingerless gloves. For those in a seasonal mood, there's a 21-inch stiletto boot-style holiday stocking for $65.

Shoppers who would rather browse in an actual building can go to Barneys' Madison Ave. men's store has devoted its entire 5th floor, more than 5,000 square feet, to "Gaga's Workshop," offering gifts, clothing and art and running through January 2.

Shoppers will have to navigate a gigantic Lady Gaga mouth erected around the store's entrance to get in.

The diva turned up clad in custom Chanel and brandishing giant scissors to cut the opening-night ribbon.

Barneys' holiday windows have been a huge draw for decades, and the store upped the ante this year with its Gaga-inspired designs such as "Gaga's boudoir," a posh study in white, ivory and soft gold. The entire thing is made of hair.

Twenty-five percent of sales generated by "Gaga's Workshop" will go toward the singer's "Born This Way" foundation, which focuses on youth issues such as self-esteem and anti-bullying.

The pop powerhouse will have her own ABC special on Thanksgiving night, "A Very Gaga Thanksgiving," which she also directed.

Lady Gaga also presented a surprise for her fans on Twitter on Wednesday, announcing the release of "A Very Gaga Holiday" EP, featuring live renditions of "White Christmas," "Orange Colored Sky," "You And I" and "The Edge of Glory" for $3.99 on iTunes and Amazon.

taken from : China Daily

Angelina Jolie feels lucky to be alive

2011-11-23T21:49:00.001+07:00

Angelina Jolie admits she's very "lucky" to have not died young.

The Oscar-winning actress is famed for her wild past - including a period where she experimented with hard drugs and self-harming - and is grateful she's still alive as she knows it could have turned out much differently.

The 36-year-old beauty said: "I went through heavy, darker times and I survived them. I didn't die young, so I'm very lucky. There are other artists and people who didn't survive certain things.

"People can imagine I did the most dangerous and the worst. For many reasons, I shouldn't be here. You just think [about] those times when you came too close to too many dangerous things, too many chances taken, too far."

Angelina - who raises six children with partner Brad Pitt - admits her life has calmed down but she will always have a wild side to her personality.

She told Bob Simon on CBS' '60 Minutes': "I'm still a bad girl. I still have that side of me.it's just in its place now.it belongs to Brad. Or our adventures."

Angelina has always been very open about her past and has previously spoken candidly about her drug use, saying: "In the past I took just every drug possible, coke, ecstasy, heroin, everything."
taken from : China Daily

Daniel Radcliffe almost missed out on Potter

2011-11-23T21:44:00.002+07:00

Daniel Radcliffe almost missed out on the role of Harry Potter because his parents were worried it would disrupt his life too much.

The 22-year-old actor played the schoolboy wizard in all eight 'Harry Potter' movies but says his mother and father were initially unsure because it would have meant him living in Los Angeles for long periods.

However, they soon changed their mind after director Chris Columbus - who first saw Daniel in UK TV show 'David Copperfield' - decided to shoot most of the movies in Daniel's native England.

He said: "Chris Columbus had seen David Copperfield and said, 'I want to audition this boy.'

"They went to my parents, and, at the time, the deal was to sign on for, I think, six films, all to be done in LA, and my mum and dad simply said, 'That's too much disruption to his life. That's not gonna happen.'

"I didn't know any of that had gone on. And then, maybe three, four months down the line, the deal had changed, and it was going be to shoot two films, and they'd both be done in England, and so they said, 'Okay, we'll let him audition.' And then it all went from there, really."

The role of Harry made Daniel a worldwide star and while he's grateful for all the opportunities it's given him, he also admits the fame can be hard to deal with.

He told The Hollywood Reporter: "There are, obviously, upsides to it, but I'd say that the upsides, for me, are the upsides that come from my job rather than from the celebrity aspect.

"I mean, celebrity is horrible - that's the truth, is that it's a ghastly, vile thing."

taken from : China Daily

Angelina Jolie and Pax meet with his grandmother

2011-11-23T21:41:00.001+07:00

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's son Pax has reunited with his biological grandmother.

The couple arranged for the eight year old - who was adopted from an orphanage near Ho Chi Min City, Vietnam, in 2007 - to spend time with his grandmother Nhan Dung when the Jolie-Pitt family took a recent trip to the exclusive Six Senses resort in Con Dao, South East Vietnam.

An insider told Us Weekly magazine: "It was a one day visit. Nhan was looking forward to it after Pax had lived so many years abroad."

Angelina - who also raises Cambodian-born Maddox, 10, and Ethiopian orphan Zahara, six, as well as biological kids Shiloh, five, and three-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne, with Brad - recently revealed her brood are keen to learn about each other's cultures.

She said: "They are all learning about each other's cultures as well as being proud of their own.

"So it's not like just the boys get to do the Asian thing. They all have their flags over their beds and their individual pride."

Meanwhile, Brad and Angelina have employed specialist teachers to ensure their children don't forget their native tongue.

Angelina recently explained: "We have teachers who teach Cambodian and Vietnamese in our house and they know their flags, their music and quite a lot about their culture. We bring in as much as we can."

taken from : China Daily

Jessica Alba was sensible in pregnancy

2011-11-23T21:20:00.002+07:00

Jessica Alba didn't go "crazy" with food during her second pregnancy.

The stunning actress gave birth to daughter Haven in August and says the reason she has already regained her post-baby figure is because she was sensible while she was expecting.

She told Us Weekly: "I didn't gain as much weight with my second pregnancy, so I think that really made a big difference. I did pre-natal yoga up until the very end. I just made healthier choices. I started working out and not going too crazy, but I did what was safe and what the doctor approved."

Jessica - who also has a three-year-old daughter, Honor, with husband Cash Warren - says she's enjoying every moment of Haven as she's less nervous than when Honor was a tiny baby.

She said: "It's nice to enjoy having a newborn instead of being overwhelmed and wonder if everything is going to be okay. Now I'm like, 'Oh, she'll be fine!' They're so sweet together."

taken from : China Daily

Hugh Grant: Non-Murdoch tabloid hacked me in 2007

2011-11-22T18:34:00.002+07:00

British actor Hugh Grant arrives at the Leveson Inquiry at the High Court in central London, November 21, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

LONDON — Actor Hugh Grant has told a London courtroom about the dark side of celebrity life, describing mysterious break-ins, leaked medical details and hacked voice mails — and laying blame on the entire tabloid press, not just the now-shuttered News of the World.

Grant's testimony Monday to a judge-led media ethics inquiry capped a tough day for Britain's beleaguered press. Earlier, the parents of a murdered schoolgirl whose phone was targeted by the tabloid described how the hacking had given them false hope that their daughter was still alive.

Grant said he believes his phone was hacked by Britain's Mail on Sunday tabloid — the first time he has implicated a newspaper not owned by media mogul Rupert Murdoch in the wrongdoing.

The actor said a 2007 story about his romantic life in the paper, owned by Murdoch rival Associated Newspapers Ltd., could only have been obtained through eavesdropping on his voice mails.

He said he could not think of any other way the newspaper could have obtained the story alleging that his romance with Jemima Khan was on the rocks because of his conversations with a "plummy voiced" woman the paper identified as a film studio executive.

Grant said there was no such woman, but he did receive voice messages from the assistant of a movie producer friend.

"She would leave charming, joking messages ... and she had a voice that can only be described as plummy," he said.

Grant sued the newspaper for libel and won.

Challenged about whether he had hard evidence, Grant acknowledged he was speculating.

"But ... I'd love to hear what the Daily Mail or the Sunday Mail's explanation of what that source was if it wasn't phone hacking," he said.

The Mail on Sunday said in a statement said that it "utterly refutes" Grant's suggestion it had hacked his phone and described his comments as "smears."

Over two and a half hours of testimony, Grant — by turns charming and censorious — described years of tabloid pursuit that began after his breakthrough hit, "Four Weddings and a Funeral," in 1994. Incidents included a mysterious break-in at his apartment during which nothing was stolen. Descriptions of the apartment later appeared in a tabloid newspaper.

He also said an article published earlier this year in The Sun and Daily Express about his visit to a hospital emergency room was "a gross intrusion of my privacy."

"I think no one would expect their medical records to be made public or to be appropriated by newspapers for commercial profit," he said. "That is fundamental to our British sense of decency."

And he said paparazzi had hounded Tinglan Hong, the mother of Grant's baby daughter, despite the actor's efforts to keep his paternity secret. He said he did not attend the baby's birth in late September, but the next day, "I couldn't resist a quick visit."

"There seems to have been a leak from the hospital," Grant said. "They even knew the fake name she had checked into the hospital under."

Grant had initially refused to confirm the baby was his, but earlier this month released a statement acknowledging it. He told the inquiry that the statement — intended in part to rebuff claims he had "jilted" Hong, with whom he remains friendly — had been composed during a phone call with his publicist while he was on a film set in Germany.
"It was not ideal circumstances," Grant said. "I was dressed as a cannibal at the time."

Prime Minister David Cameron set up the inquiry into media ethics in response to an evolving scandal over phone hacking in Britain. Murdoch shut down the discredited News of the World tabloid in July after evidence emerged that it had routinely eavesdropped on the voice mails of public figures, celebrities and even crime victims in its search for scoops.

The inquiry, led by Judge Brian Leveson, plans to issue a report next year and could recommend major changes to the way the media in Britain are regulated.

Grant, who has become an outspoken campaigner against press intrusion, called for a media code of ethics and tougher regulation.

"There has been a section of our press that has been allowed to become toxic over the past 20 or 30 years," he said, urging Britain to find the courage to stand up to tabloid "bullies."

Grant is one of a string of high-profile witnesses, including actress Sienna Miller and author J.K. Rowling, who will testify about how they were followed, photographed, entrapped and harassed by journalists from Britain's tabloids, which collectively sell millions of copies a day.

The first witnesses Monday were the parents of murdered teenager Milly Dowler, whose mobile phone voice mails were hacked after she disappeared in 2002.

Her mother told the inquiry that she believed her missing 13 year old was still alive once she reached the girl's previously full voice mailbox.

Sally Dowler said when she could finally leave a message on Milly's voice mail weeks after the girl disappeared, she shouted: "She's picked up the voice mails! ... She's alive!"

In fact, messages had been deleted by someone working for the News of the World while the Dowlers and police were still searching for Milly, who was later found dead.

The Dowlers said they had been utterly shocked when police told them, much later, that Milly's phone had been hacked.

Bob Dowler said he recognized immediately that the information was "dynamite." News that tabloid journalists had targeted not just celebrities but a murdered girl shocked many Britons and triggered a police investigation and media recriminations that are still unfolding.

The Dowlers took the stand together and spoke in quiet, composed voices during their 30 minutes of nationally televised testimony.

They described their shock and anger when a private walk to retrace their missing daughter's last steps was secretly photographed by the tabloid.

"It just felt like such an intrusion into a really, really private grief moment," Sally Dowler said. The couple said they later realized that their own phone, as well as their daughter's, had been hacked.

More than a dozen News of the World journalists and editors have been arrested and several senior Murdoch executives have resigned over the still-evolving scandal. Two top London police officers also lost their jobs, along with Cameron's media adviser.

Later this week the inquiry will hear from "Harry Potter" author Rowling, comedian Steve Coogan, actress Miller and former Formula One boss Max Mosley — whose taste for sadomasochism was revealed in a widely publicized News of the World sting.

It's a courtroom lineup that Britain's celebrity-obsessed tabloids would love, if only they weren't the ones in the dock.

taken from : China Daily

Kris Humphries having 'difficult time'

2011-11-22T18:33:00.002+07:00

Kris Humphries has admitted he has been going through a "difficult time".

The 26-year-old sportsman was shocked at the end of last month when his wife Kim Kardashian filed for divorce after just 72 days of marriage and the basketball star has now spoken publicly for the first time about his personal difficulties.

Announcing a new endorsement deal with Sector Watches, he told a press conference at the Trump SoHo Hotel in New York: "I'm happy to be here. As you all know, this has been a difficult time in my life, and I'm so grateful my friends at Sector for their unwavering support."

While Kris has previously not spoken about his marriage split, his father William Humphries recently admitted his son had been "blindsided" by Kim's divorce petition.

He said: "There was never a discussion about it - it just came out of nowhere and blindsided Kris.

"How could someone do that? Kris was completely surprised. The news was already published before he found out.

"Kris is hurting, but we're here for him. It's not a nice situation."

Despite William's claims, a representative for Kim has said he knew about the divorce before it was made public.

taken from : China Daily

Robert Pattinson wants to give kids canine names

2011-11-22T18:31:00.001+07:00

Robert Pattinson wants to name his children after dogs.

The 25-year-old actor's character Edward Cullen becomes a father in his latest movie 'Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1' but the British star believes at the age of 25 he is far too immature to be a parent right now and would probably call his children ridiculous names.

Asked what he would name his own kids, Robert said: "I have no idea. I still think like a 12-year-old. I have no idea what I'm going to do with a baby. Yeah, I'd quite like to call them Killer like a dog's name . [or] Butch!"

Robert - who is dating his 'Twilight Saga' co-star Kristen Stewart - recently revealed he has no plans to be a young dad because he has no experience with children.

He said: "A father, yes. A young father, no. I have no experience with children. In my circle of friends, there are none. And I don't even have a little brother. You should have seen me when we shot the scenes for 'Breaking Dawn'. There were two babies, not older than two or three weeks and I feared that I might break them."

taken from : China Daily

Justin Bieber undergoes paternity test

2011-11-22T18:28:00.002+07:00

Justin Bieber has undergone a paternity test.

The 17-year-old singer has vehemently denied being the father of fan Mariah Yeater's four-month-old son and wanted to prove his innocence by undergoing DNA testing.

According to website TMZ, Justin took the test at a lab on Friday (18.11.11) under "very controlled circumstances", which means it will be hard for Mariah or her lawyer to challenge it.

Justin's team will not settle or even discuss settlement with Mariah or her legal team and it is now up to her to provide DNA results from her son.

Although Mariah dropped her lawsuit against the 'Baby' hitmaker, her lawyer stated they planned to pursue the matter privately

Justin previously revealed he was happy to take a DNA test to prove his innocence but insisted he would not "waste" his time meeting his accuser face-to-face because her fabricated claims were vindictive.

Justin - who is currently dating Selena Gomez - said: "All this stuff is dealt with by my legal team. But if they want me to (take a paternity test) then I will."

When asked what he would say to Mariah if he could meet her, he said: "Nothing, I wouldn't waste my time. I guess [she's done this] for attention, but it's not something I am interested in. These people are not worth my thought or time."

taken from : China Daily

Taylor Swift doesn't like to be drunk

2011-11-21T17:52:00.001+07:00

Taylor Swift doesn't like to get drunk because "it's just not cute".

The country/pop singer isn't a big fan of partying and while that is partly because she feels a responsibility to be a role model to her young fans, she admitted it is also because she simply doesn't think being drunk is a good way to behave.

She explained: "I have drunk, I'm not a drinker. I don't really like drinking. I'm not like, 'Man it's my favourite thing to do,' and I don't like to get drunk because it's just not cute.

When asked, "What about weed?" by a TV interviewer for '60 Minutes', she answered: "No. I just don't feel like it. And I don't want to smoke anything because I sing."

While Taylor, 21, admitted there are days when she would love to stop worrying about her responsibilities to her fans and just go wild, she can't forget that there are young people who look up to her.

She said: "I definitely think about a million people when I am getting dressed in the morning and that's just part of my life now. I think it's my responsibility to know it and to be conscious of it.

"It would be really easy to say, 'You know I'm 21 now. I do what I want. You raise your kids.' But ... that's not the truth of it. The truth of it is that every singer out there with songs on the radio is raising the next generation. So make your words count."

taken from : China Daily

Hugh Jackman's critical daughter

2011-11-21T17:51:00.001+07:00

Hugh Jackman's daughter finds his Broadway show "boring".

The 43-year-old actor is currently starring in his one man show, 'Hugh Jackman: Back on Broadway', in New York's prestigious theatre district and while his 11-year-old son Oscar enjoyed the production on a recently family visit, six-year-old Ava was less than impressed.

Hugh - who is married to Deborra-Lee Furness - said: "About a week ago [my kids] came on a Sunday matinee. I said, 'Guys, look, you can be honest with me. Do you like the show?'

"My son Oscar says, 'I really like it.' I was touched. My daughter said, 'I find it a little boring.' "

During part of the show, the 'Real Steel' actor ventures into the audience to serenade his wife and Hugh admits it is the part where his daughter feels particularly uncomfortable.

He told TV talk show host Anderson Cooper: "My daughter, oh my God. I sing a song for my wife in the show and sometimes I go out to the crowd.

"My daughter literally hides under the seat in front. She dies."

Hugh also revealed he is a big fan of parenting show 'Supernanny' and has found the tips and techniques used by host Jo Frost very useful.

He said: "I'm one of those parents, I read every book. My son came out and apparently he hadn't read any of them, so we were really all at sea. Then we found that show and, I tell you, our daughter has a much easier ride."

taken from : China Daily

Casual Catherine confuses pupils

2011-11-21T17:34:00.001+07:00

Primary School pupils didn't think Catherine Middleton looked "like a princess" when she visited them.

The Duchess of Cambridge went to find out more about The Art Room - an art therapy charity she is thinking of representing - this week, meeting at the primary school where their London branch is based.

The casually dressed royal was taken on a tour to see the charity's work at the Robert Blair Primary School, before meeting pupils and posing for a picture, but some seemed confused by her wearing a jumper and jeans.

A woman who had come to the school to collect her three-year-old brother told The Mail on Sunday newspaper: "The children had been told by the headmaster, Mr. Miller, and the deputy headmaster, Mr. Murphy, that a real-life Princess was coming to the school.

"They were so excited and were all told to wait in the car park to see her. "When she came out of The Art Room after the visit, she posed for a picture and waved at the children.

"Some of the little ones were very confused. They were saying things like, 'She doesn't look like a Princess. Where's her dress?' They didn't believe it was the Princess they had seen on the television."

Despite the school staff's comments, Catherine is, in fact, a Duchess and not a princess, but she is said to have been impressed by the charity's work at the school.

The Art Room works with children aged between five to 16 who are disruptive or have learning difficulties and aims to "increase self-esteem, self-confidence and independence through art."

Confirming the visit, a spokesperson for Catherine said: "It was one of a number of meetings, part of the Duchess getting to know the charitable sector. The Art Room wrote to her and caught her eye. She went to find out more about their work."

taken from : China Daily

Selena Gomez, Venture Capitalist

2011-11-19T10:11:00.001+07:00

By: Jessica Naziri
Special to CNBC.com

Photo: Getty Images

Disney pop-star, Selena Gomez is pretty busy these days. As if being Justin Bieber's girlfriend is not enough — the actress/singer is now a tech investor too.

Gomez is part of a of $750,000 funding round for Postcard on the Run, a free app that creates photo postcards from your smartphone. Just snap, tap, and send your own post-card. For about a dollar a card, the company takes care of the mailing and printing, so you don't need to worry about buying stamps or searching for a mailbox.

She will play an active role in creative development as the mobile app continues to expand.

Gomez joins a handful of celebrity investors who have infused the tech world with their money including, Mike Jones, Kamran Pourzanjani, Yves Sisteron, Aber Whitcomb, Brian Fitzgerald, Ryan Steelberg, Colin Digiaro, Brian Lee, Chris DeWolfe, Jarl Mohn.

Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher call it quits

2011-11-18T22:21:00.003+07:00

Actress Demi Moore (L) and actor Ashton Kutcher attend a news conference at the United Nations Headquarters in New York in this November 4, 2010 file photo. The couple said November 17, 2011 they are ending their marriage after six years, breaking up one of the most widely followed May-December romances Hollywood has seen.[Photo/Agencies]

U.S. actors Ashton Kutcher (L) and Demi Moore react during an interview in a shopping centre in Pasching, about 180 km (112 miles) west of Vienna, in this October 29, 2010 file photo. Hollywood stars Moore and Kutcher are ending their marriage after six years, Moore said in a statement on November 17, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Film and television stars Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher said on Thursday they are ending their marriage after six years, breaking up one of the most widely followed May-December romances Hollywood has seen.

The marriage between Moore, 49, and Kutcher 33, has been in trouble since late September when a San Diego woman went public about a brief affair she had with Kutcher, a star on CBS television comedy "Two and a Half Men," during a weekend of partying in the southern California city.

"It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I have decided to end my six-year marriage to Ashton. As a woman, a mother and a wife there are certain values and vows that I hold sacred, and it is in this spirit that I have chosen to move forward with my life," Moore said in a statement.

The star of films such as "Ghost," "G.I. Jane" and "Indecent Proposal" also asked for "compassion and privacy" and said it was a "trying time for me and my family.

Moore released her statement first and Kutcher quickly followed on Twitter where both were early converts to the social network, posting messages and pictures about their personal lives. Ashton has more than eight million followers and Moore has more than four million.

"I will forever cherish the time I spent with Demi. Marriage is one of the most difficult things in the world and unfortunately sometimes they fail. Love and Light, AK," Kutcher tweeted.

Moore was married twice previously, the first time to singer Freddy Moore and the second to film star Bruce Willis, with whom she has three children. They divorced in 2000.

She began dating Kutcher a few years after breaking up with Willis when Kutcher was a rising star on the TV sitcom "That '70s Show."

Their affair immediately became fodder for the tabloid press because of their 16-year age difference, but in the months and years after their wedding, it seemed they were living happily ever after.

But Hollywood can be cruel to celebrity couples and speculation about Kutcher straying from his marriage began to surface earlier this year. In September, Sara Leal, a 22-year-old part-time model told celebrity media that she had slept with Kutcher twice over a wild weekend of partying.

She told Britain's The Sun newspaper "I was attracted to him, and he was attracted to me," and said that Kutcher had told her he and Moore were separated.

In the past month, Moore and Kutcher had stayed out of the public spotlight and not commented on reports of the affair. They have offered only cryptic posts on Twitter, such as this from Moore on September 23, the eve of their sixth anniversary, quoting Greek philosopher Epictetus: "When we are offended at any man's fault, turn to yourself and study your own failings. Then you will forget your anger."

Apparently, she couldn't forget.

taken from : China Daily

Selena Gomez: Paternity claims not easy

2011-11-18T20:52:00.001+07:00

Selena Gomez admits dealing with claims her boyfriend Justin Bieber had fathered a child with another woman have been "not easy".

The 19-year-old actress - who has been dating the teen singing sensation since March - explained while the situation has been difficult, the pair are doing their best to cope.

Asked by chat show host Ellen DeGeneres whether she was alright in the wake of the outlandish allegations, Selena said: "I have been, yeah. It's not easy to deal with."

Despite the pressure Justin has been under, the 'Monte Carlo' star insists the pair have still been having fun and she has been teasing him in recent weeks about his penchant for wearing baggy pants, as she doesn't understand his obsession with low-slung trousers.

When Ellen asked whether Selena could mention something to her boyfriend about his choice in pants, she said: "I've told him! I don't get it. He just laughs at me."

It's been a stressful few weeks for Justin and Selena after 20-year-old Mariah Yeater claimed the singer was the father of her four-month-old son.

While she has since dropped the paternity lawsuit - which the 17-year-old star vehemently denies - Mariah's new lawyer says she intends to pursue the matter out of court.

Jeffery M. Leving told Chicago's WGN-TV: "This matter is not over. Negotiations are going on right now with Bieber's counsel. There's a new legal team [in place].

"[Mariah] believes Justin Bieber is the father. We're trying to secure a private DNA test, because this case is out of control."taken from : China Daily

Penelope needs to achieve motherhood dream

2011-11-18T20:50:00.001+07:00

Penelope Cruz is "the happiest she's ever been" since becoming a mother.

The 'Vicky Christina Barcelona' star gave birth to son Leo, her first child with husband Javier Bardem, 11 months ago and her filmmaker friend Pedro Almodovar revealed motherhood has always been her goal.

Pedro - who has collaborated with the actress many times - said: "She's the most happy. Better than always!

"She's with a man who she loves. She's a really avocational mother. In all my movies she plays a mother. She always said, 'I want to be a mother.' "

The proud mother loves showing off Leo and although their busy schedules mean Penelope and Pedro don't see each other as often as they would like, the 37-year-old actress sends Pedro, 62, pictures of her son every 15 days.

He added to UsMagazine.com: "She wanted to really experience being a mother in a complete way. She sends me photos of the baby every 15 days. I see how he's growing. He has an incredibly big smile, you cannot imagine. He's beautiful, gorgeous and he's big."taken from : China Daily

Justin Bieber staying positive

2011-11-18T20:47:00.004+07:00

Justin Bieber is keeping his "head high" amid allegations he fathered a fan's baby.

The 17-year-old singer - who is dating Selena Gomez - has vehemently denied Mariah Yeater's claims that he is the dad of her four-month-old son and is doing his best to stay focused on his work despite the speculation in his personal life.

He told New York radio station Z100: "Right now, I'm focusing on my album and the music and the Pencils of Promise charity we're doing, and just being positive because Christmas time is a time for joy and happiness, so that's what I'm thinking.

"As far as the whole baby situation, it's unfortunate that it had to happen like that that. People make false accusations, but things happen in this industry and you have to keep your head high and be positive."

Despite admitting the claims could damage his reputation as a role model, Justin was able to joke about the claims, saying he wishes he had been the target of a different story.

He joked: "If it was up to me, it would have been a better story like, 'Justin Bieber went off to South America with this 27-year-old supermodel.' That would have been awesome.

"They say that any press is good press - I do not believe that's true. If you're in the spotlight, then people are looking at you to be a role model, and if you're doing bad things to be getting press, I think that's really, really sad."

Justin's manager Scooter Braun has also hit out at Mariah and her legal team after her new lawyer said yesterday he intended to pursue the matter privately out of court.

Scooter said: "Look, I don't usually talk in front of mics but the bottom line is they said they're in settlement talks with us, and the only thing I'm gonna say is they will never be in settlement talks with us.

"We will never settle with them. That's my little guy right there - I protect him - and they messed with the wrong crew.

"It's false and people should be held accountable when they run out and say this stuff. And they have this lawyer running around saying, 'Well, we want everything to be held confidentially now.' But you don't get to go out there and bad-mouth a 17-year-old kid to the entire world then suddenly think it's going to stay confidential. We're not gonna go away quietly."taken from : China Daily

Marc Jacobs' claims collection stolen

2011-11-18T20:45:00.001+07:00

Marc Jacobs claims its entire spring/summer collection 2012 was stolen.

The fashion brand says the clothing set, which was made up of 46 looks, was taken from a train in Paris during a transfer, which led to the company to send out an email cancelling a press day in its London store yesterday (16.11.11).

The note read: "Dear all. The Marc Jacobs PR team is sorry to inform you that our press day tomorrow in the Marc Jacobs store is cancelled, due to the theft of the spring/summer 2012 collections during its transfer from Paris."

It is thought the collection was stolen in an attempt to counterfeit the samples rather than sell them on the black market.

Marc Jacobs was also embroiled in further controversy earlier this month when one of its magazine commercials was banned for appearing to "sexualise a child".

The British Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) condemned the advert - which featured 17-year-old Dakota Fanning sitting on the floor in a pale-coloured thigh-length dress with an Oh Lola perfume bottle between her thighs - describing it as "sexually provocative".

An ASA statement explained: "We noted that the model was holding up the perfume bottle which rested in her lap between her legs and we considered that its position was sexually provocative. We understood the model was 17 years old but we considered she looked under the age of 16.

"We considered that the length of her dress, her leg and position of the perfume bottle drew attention to her sexuality. Because of that, along with her appearance, we considered the ad could be seen to sexualise a child."taken from : China Daily

Justin Bieber wants an apology in paternity case

2011-11-17T18:23:00.002+07:00

Justin Bieber is getting support from other famous folks, including Justin Timberlake, Madonna and Charlie Sheen. | DANIEL ROLAND~AFP/Getty Images

WITH BILL ZWECKER November 16, 2011 7:10PM

Realizing Mariah Yeater’s case was a joke, her original San Diego-based legal team has dumped her and withdrawn her paternity suit against Justin Bieber.

While the pop star has denied fathering single mom Yeater’s baby son and has said he’d take a DNA test to prove it, I’ve learned Bieber’s lawyers are going to follow through on their countersuit against Yeater — looking to make an example of the young woman, who could have faced statutory rape charges if that child was proven to be Bieber’s.

“This is not about money,” said someone extremely close to the Bieber camp. “Clearly Mariah doesn’t have anything. It’s about getting a very public, widely televised apology — showing the world that people cannot subject celebrities to things like this simply because they are famous.”

Media-centric Chicago lawyer Jeffrey Leving is sticking with Yeater’s case, claiming she is facing death threats, and says she now is represented by Los Angeles attorney John Carlson. Leving indicated Wednesday he hopes some sort of settlement will be worked out between Yeater and Bieber outside of the courtroom.

From what I’m hearing, that’s a pipe dream — to say the least.

In the meantime, Bieber has been hearing from a slew of famous folks — including Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Lady Gaga, Madonna and Charlie Sheen — all congratulating him on sticking to his guns and encouraging him to pursue legal claims agains Yeater.

† In other paternity news, Laura Bellizzi told TMZ that “Mel Gibson is not the father of my child,” blasting various media outlets for being “100 percent dishonest” for claiming she had told friends the Oscar winner was the father of the baby.

GLOBE GAB: Ricky Gervais will be back for his third hosting gig on the Golden Globes when the awards show airs Jan. 15 — and from the sound of his Twitter message Wednesday, his edgy humor will be intact. The Brit comic tweeted, “Just told Billy Crystal he’d better not use any of my Holocaust or pedophile material at the Oscars. He agreed (true).”

ROYAL RUMBLINGS: The rumors have been flying for a while, and now InTouch Weekly adds more fuel to the gossip fires — quoting a source insisting Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, and Prince William already are expecting their first child.

As is always the case with these tales, time will tell.

ACROSS THE YEARS: Here’s a fun twist on the “cougar” romance Ellen Barkin, 57, has pursued with 26-year-old filmmaker Sam Levinson. The actress, who produces and stars in Levinson’s “Another Happy Day,” actually made her movie debut in 1982 — in the groundbreaking “Diner” by Sam’s dad, Barry Levinson.

TAKE A BOW: Steppenwolf has made a great choice in picking Emmy-, Golden Globe- and SAG Award-winning actress Julianna Margulies as special guest of honor at the theater company’s third annual “Women in the Arts” fund-raising luncheon — scheduled for March 12 at the Chicago Cultural Center.

Margulies, who stars in the hit “The Good Wife” on CBS, will be interviewed about her career by Steppenwolf’s artistic director Martha Lavey.

† Kudos to Willis, Shirley and Chris Johnson, who celebrate the opening of their Classic Cinemas’ 100th screen with the launch of the 10th auditorium at the York Theatre in downtown Elmhurst. The Johnsons recently were honored with the Richard Driehaus Architectural Award, recognizing that half of the company’s 13 locations are historic venues that have been restored — dating back to the Tivoli Theatre in Downers Grove.

SPLITSVILLE SAGA: Ruben Studdard, arguably the least successful of all the “American Idol” winners, has apparently failed in the marriage department, too. The man known as the “Velvet Teddy Bear,” who won season two of “Idol” in 2003, has filed for divorce from wife of three years, Surata Zuri McCants .

SEEN ON THE SCENE: A very jovial Mayor Emanuel bounded Tuesday night into Chicago Cut — making for something of a White House week at the steakery after Emanuel’s presidential chief-of-staff successor Bill Daley was spied supping there the night before. … Rocker David Byrne stopped by the Musuem of Contemporary Art to catch the “Language of Less: Then and Now” exhibition Tuesday night. … Israel Idonije and Matt Spaeth were among those supporting their Bears teammate Robbie Gould at Rockit Bar & Grill for his “Monday Night Football” event, benefitting his charity the Goulden Touch.

taken from : http://www.suntimes.com

Nikki Reed: Twilight cast not all friends

2011-11-16T21:55:00.001+07:00

Nikki Reed has admitted the 'Twilight Saga' cast don't all get along.

The 23-year-old actress - who plays Rosalie Hale in the vampire movie franchise - admits the dynamic between the actors has changed from when they started out on the first movie, 'Twilight', in 2008 to recent filming on 'The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Parts I and II' and she doesn't plan to stay in touch with everyone.

She said: "In the beginning, it was innocent and fun, and we were like one big happy family - it was like being at sleepaway camp. And then success comes along and changes the dynamic. We're not all best friends, and we're not all going to hang out together after the final movie is done."

Nikki - who stars in the 'Twilight Saga' series alongside actors including Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Kellan Lutz and Taylor Lautner - shot to fame in 2003 when she wrote and starred in 'Thirteen' and the brunette beauty found the movie gave people incorrect ideas about her personality and work ethic.

She explained to the new issue of Seventeen magazine: "I got typecast as a party girl when 'Thirteen' first came out. The funny thing was, I was a virgin, I didn't do drugs, and I barely drank."

taken from : China Daily

Britney Spears set for December proposal

2011-11-16T21:53:00.001+07:00

Britney Spears is set to get engaged by the end of the year.

The 'Hold it Against Me' hitmaker's boyfriend Jason Trawick - who has been dating the pop star for around two years - plans to whisk her away on holiday when her 'Femme Fatale Tour' ends in Puerto Rico on December 10, and he is "very likely" to pop the question.

A Spears family insider said: "Britney and Jason discuss marriage all the time. Britney is truly in love with Jason, and well, Jason has loved her for a very, very long time.

"Jason adores her two sons, Sean Preston and Jayden James. Jason is planning on taking Britney on a secluded getaway once the tour wraps, and it's very likely he will pop the question at that time."

The 29-year-old singer - who has been married twice before, to Kevin Federline, the father of her kids, and Jason Alexander - would need a judge to formally sign off her marriage as she is still under her father Jamie's conservatorship following her much-publicised breakdown more than three years ago.

But she would be allowed to get engaged without requiring any official approval.

The source added to RadarOnline.com: "When Britney does get engaged, her father's attorneys will notify the judge in her conservatorship case. It's extremely within the realm of possibility that the conservatorship will end, and then Britney will get married. It will be a very smooth transition."

The blonde beauty's mother Lynne and Jason are said to be "very close" and her family are "looking forward to the day that Jason will formally be a member of their family".

Earlier this year, Jason visited an exclusive Los Angeles jeweller to help him design the perfect ring ready for when he proposes to the 'Toxic' singer.

taken from : China Daily

Justin Timberlake loves 'cool' job

2011-11-16T21:51:00.001+07:00

Justin Timberlake has a "wicked cool job".

The singer-turned-actor - who has appeared several times on 'Saturday Night Live' - loves working in comedy because he finds it easy and thinks it is a good way of getting over bitterness and rejection.

He said: "I'm not a comedian, so I'll probably get crucified for saying this, but I think with a lot of comedy the impetus behind it is; I've been rejected so many times and I'm bitter and now I'm going to talk about it.

"It's almost as if 'The Social Network' was a comedy. For me, being earnest and genuine is way easier than acting like you just don't care, like you don't want to be here, like this is a drag.

"There are just so many things in the world that are a drag. For me it's like, This is a f***ing wicked cool job!"

The 30-year-old star also recalled a time when he refused to shake a fan's hand - because they had both just been to the bathroom.

Speaking to the new issue of America's GQ magazine - in which he was named Showman of the Year alongside Jimmy Fallon - Justin said: "I was at the movies this one time, and I was going to the bathroom right before I went into the theatre and this guy, as he was walking away from the urinal, zipping up his pants as he turns, recognises me, gets all excited, and makes a beeline for me, his arm out, looking to shake my hand.

"Listen, I'm not a germaphobe, but c'mon. I literally said to him, 'There's no f***ing way you're not going to wash your hands before you try to shake my hand.' You just had that hand on your penis."

taken from : China Daily

Justin Bieber says he and Selena are strong

2011-11-16T21:49:00.001+07:00

Justin Bieber insists his relationship with Selena Gomez has not been affected by the allegations he fathered a child with a fan.

The 'Mistletoe' singer has been rocked in recent weeks after Mariah Yeater filed a lawsuit claiming he is the dad of her four-month-old son and has demanded a paternity test, but he insists his girlfriend has offered him unwavering support since the claims surfaced.

He said: "She (Selena) is doing great - like me she just ignores things. She had to get used to some pretty horrible stuff being said about her on twitter when we first got together, and since then she has just learned to ignore all the rubbish that is written about us."

Justin - who is accused of having sex with Mariah in October 2010 after a concert in Los Angeles - also claims he and Selena have had to get used to the harsh side of fame quickly and have "learned to ignore the rubbish".

In an interview with Britain's Star magazine, he added: "Both Selena and myself have had to get used to this stuff; it's part of being in the industry. It's not right that we have to get used to it, but it's one of those things you need to accept. We've both learned to ignore the rubbish that comes out. I don't want to give these people any attention."

Justin - who has been in a relationship with Selena since March - has also had the full backing of his family and friends in the paternity row.

The 17-year-old pop star said: "They all just dismissed them as the rubbish that they are."

taken from : China Daily

Singer Adele "on the mend" after throat surgery

2011-11-16T21:41:00.003+07:00

LONDON | Wed Nov 16, 2011 7:06am EST

(Reuters) - British singer Adele said she was "on the mend" after undergoing microsurgery in Boston to treat a benign polyp on her vocal cords.

The problems forced Adele, whose album "21" is the top seller in the United States and Britain this year, to cancel a string of appearances at concerts and awards ceremonies in recent weeks.

"I'm doing really well, on the mend, super happy, relaxed and very positive with it all," the 23-year-old said in a blog posting on her website.

"The operation was a success and I'm just chilling out now until I get the all clear from my doctors ... I best get back to practicing (sic) my mime show now."

Adele, who leads the field with four nominations at the American Music Awards to be held in Los Angeles on November 20, recently dismissed speculation in the media that she had throat cancer.

(Reporting by Mike Collett-White, editing by Paul Casciato)

Chelsea Clinton named NBC special correspondent

2011-11-15T20:16:00.001+07:00

Chelsea Clinton speaks during a panel discussion regarding technologies for economic empowerment at the Clinton Global Initiative in New York, September 22, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

The daughter of Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton will be a special correspondent for NBC, the network announced on Monday.

Chelsea Clinton, who also works for her father's charitable foundation, will report for NBC Nightly News and the network's news magazine show "Rock Center with Brian Williams" on groups and individuals making a difference by doing good.

"People who imagine and implement solutions to challenges in their own lives, in their communities, in our country and in our world have always inspired me," Chelsea Clinton said in a statement.

Clinton, who has traditionally avoided the spotlight and was known for refusing to speak to the press during her mother's political campaigns, will also continue her public health work at New York University and studying for a doctorate at the University of Oxford.

"Chelsea Clinton has led a remarkable life. She possesses an uncommon understanding of humanity -- on city streets, across this country and around the globe," said NBC News anchor Brian Williams. "We are so excited she's joining us to tell the stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things."

Jenna Bush Hager, daughter of former U.S. President George W. Bush, also works as a correspondent for NBC and has been reporting on issues like education for the network's "Today" show for the past couple of years.

taken from : China Daily

Justin Bieber buys 100k car

2011-11-15T20:12:00.001+07:00

Canadian singer Justin Bieber poses with the trophy for Entertainment during the 63rd Bambi media awards ceremony in Wiesbaden, November 10, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Justin Bieber has splashed out more than £100,000 on a customised Range Rover.

The 17-year-old singer is hoping to impress his girlfriend Selena Gomez with the purchase of the 'Project Kahn' car, which has a sound system worth £50,000, leather interior, modified paintwork and a Cosworth engine.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "Justin loves his motors even though he's barely old enough to drive.

"His girlfriend Selena Gomez will be well impressed with his latest. It's the business."

The 'Never Say Never' hitmaker is set to get the vehicle shipped from Bradford, west Yorkshire, Northern England, where he purchased the motor from the 'Project Kahn' operation - whose previous customers have included England soccer star Wayne Rooney and TV star Katie Price - to his Los Angeles home.

He will add the motor to his fleet of vehicles, which includes a Batman-themed customised Cadillac and a Ferrari.

Last month, he was pulled over by police in Los Angeles in his Batmobile-inspired Cadillac after he reportedly cut off an officer. He was given a warning and allowed to carry on his way.

Earlier this year, the teen heartthrob was unhurt after being involved in a minor car crash when his Ferrari - which he is thought to have been driving alongside an unnamed passenger - collided into a Honda Civic at the Studio City area of Los Angeles.

taken from : China Daily

Meryl Streep promotes Thatcher biopic in London

2011-11-15T20:01:00.002+07:00

LONDON | Mon Nov 14, 2011 9:45am EST

(Reuters) - Actress Meryl Streep unveiled a poster in London on Monday promoting her upcoming big-screen portrayal of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, which one early review described as "magnificent."

When details of the screenplay became public over a year ago, Thatcher's children were quoted in the press as being "appalled" at the concept.

Questions were also raised as to whether an American actress should play one of the towering figures of British politics.

"The Iron Lady," which hits British cinemas on January 6, depicts an aging Thatcher looking back on the highs and lows of her career and the personal price she paid for power.

Streep attended the photocall against the backdrop of the Houses of Parliament, and was joined by the movie's director Phyllida Lloyd, who also worked with Streep on the hit musical "Mamma Mia!"

The Iron Lady is likely to be a major media talking point over the coming weeks in Britain, where former conservative leader Thatcher is still a divisive figure both revered and reviled by the public.

Streep, a two-time Oscar winner and one of Hollywood's most respected actresses, told the Daily Mail newspaper that playing Thatcher was the biggest role of her career.

"It took a lot out of me, but it was a privilege to play her, it really was," the 62-year-old was quoted as saying.

"It was one of those rare, rare films where I was grateful to be an actor and grateful for the privilege of being able to look at a life deeply with empathy."

Streep added that while she did not agree with many of Thatcher's policies, "I feel she believed in them and that they came from an honest conviction."

The right-leaning newspaper's showbusiness correspondent Baz Bamigboye called Streep's portrayal "magnificent."

"It's a performance of towering proportions that sets a new benchmark for acting, a searing interpretation that looks at the big forces that shaped Mrs T's life," he wrote, using a common shortened form for Thatcher's name.

(Reporting by Mike Collett-White, editing by Paul Casciato)

Justin Timberlake keeps date for Marine Corps Ball

2011-11-14T18:10:00.001+07:00

LOS ANGELES | Sun Nov 13, 2011 10:00pm EST

(Reuters) - Justin Timberlake's date with a Marine combat instructor on Saturday night was "one of the most moving evenings" of his life, the singer-turned-actor said on his website.

Keeping his promise to Corporal Kelsey De Santis, Timberlake donned formal wear to escort her to the Instructor Battalion Marine Corps Ball in Richmond, Virginia.

In a post on his website Sunday, Timberlake noted that he was "almost brought to tears" during a video tribute to Marines.

De Santis, who practices mixed martial arts, invited Timberlake to the event via a YouTube video in July.

She was inspired to reach out to him after he publicly encouraged Mila Kunis, his "Friends with Benefits" co-star, to accept a similar invitation from a serviceman.

"You want to call out my girl Mila?" De Santis said to Timberlake in her video. "Well, I'm going to call you out and ask you to come to the Marine Corps ball with me on November 12."

She added, "If you can't go, all I have to say is, cry me a river."

Timberlake said in his post that he and De Santis had ample time to chat before the evening's ceremony, and that she spoke of her training in mixed martial arts "with a passion, a discipline, and a respect." He was struck by her concern with his comfort at the ball.

"I have to tell you, it's not every day that I meet a 23-year-old girl and she's more worried about if I'm having fun or if I'm comfortable!" Timberlake wrote. "It hit me all of a sudden that these were the type of people that look after us and our freedom... Last night changed my life and I will never forget it."

A military wife who attended Saturday's event at the Richmond Convention Center told local news station WTVR that Timberlake "posed for pictures and seemed like a normal guy."

Kunis, meanwhile, will attend a Marine Corps Ball with Sergeant Scott Moore on November 18 in Greenville, North Carolina.

(Reporting by Sheri Linden; Editing by Tim Gaynor and Jerry Norton)

Justin Bieber's 'Mistletoe' debuts at No 1

2011-11-11T19:12:00.001+07:00

Canadian singer Justin Bieber performs after switching on the Christmas lights at the Westfield shopping centre in west London November 7, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Teen sensation Justin Bieber received a sweet kiss from fans on Wednesday when his album "Under the Mistletoe" debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, edging out new entries from rapper Wale and country singer Miranda Lambert.

The album of festive singles sold just over 210,000 copies in its first week and is Bieber's third album to debut at No. 1, following "My World 2.0" and "Never Say Never: The Remixes," from his documentary, "Never Say Never."

Bieber, 17, who is currently fighting claims that he fathered a baby with a California woman after a brief backstage encounter last year, thanked his fans for supporting him on Twitter earlier this week and released an animated video for the single "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town."

"So this past week and even today every rumor and lie about me possible has been coming out in the press. Just need to ignore it ... my fans have been there for me" tweeted Bieber.

The album, which features collaborations with Mariah Carey, Busta Rhymes, Usher, The Band Perry and Boys II Men, also broke the record for the first Christmas album by a male artist to debut at the top position in the history of the Billboard 200 chart, reported Billboard.com.

"Under the Mistletoe" beat rapper Wale's "Ambition," which sold 164,000 copies in its first week and landed at No. 2. Country singer Miranda Lambert's "Four The Record" debuted at No. 3 while "Britain's Got Talent" alumni Susan Boyle entered the charts at No. 4 with her third album, "Someone To Watch Over Me," forcing Adele's mega-hit "21" to slip to No. 5.

British indie band Florence + The Machine entered the charts at No. 6 with their highly anticipated second album, "Ceremonials," while Coldplay's fifth album, "Mylo Xyloto" fell to No. 7 from last week's top position.

The drop for Coldplay's album was foreseen by frontman Chris Martin, who recently told British newspaper The Guardian that maintaining the No. 1 spot would be difficult this week.

"We have Justin Bieber and Adele to compete with and they're much younger than us," he said.

The top 10 albums were rounded out by Michael Buble's holiday-themed "Christmas" at No. 8, R&B singer Tyrese's "Open Invitation" at No. 9, and Kelly Clarkson's "Stronger" dropping to No. 10.

The singles chart held steady with Rihanna's "We Found Love" at No 1, LMFAO's 'Sexy and I Know It" at No. 2 and Adele's "Someone Like You" rounding out the top three.

Next week's chart may succumb to "Twilight" fever as the lead single from the movie's official "Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1" soundtrack, "It Will Rain" by Bruno Mars, jumped from no. 17 to no. 10 on the singles chart.

The music video for "It Will Rain" was released on Wednesday and the song and entire soundtrack are expected to climb steadily ahead of the film's release on Nov 18.

taken from : China Daily

Kate Winslet immortalised in wax

2011-11-11T19:10:00.001+07:00

Kate Winslet has been immortalised in wax.

The 'Titanic' actress has been given her own replica waxwork model at top London attraction Madame Tussauds and her lookalike is being exhibited alongside other British acting talents such as Dame Helen Mirren and Dame Judi Dench.

Model-makers spent months perfecting the figure of 36-year-old Kate and the model has been dressed in the red cap-sleeve Elie Saab dress she wore to collect her prize at the Emmy Awards earlier this year.

Kate was included at Madame Tussauds after visitors voted for her to get her own tribute.

Liz Edwards, PR Manager at the tourist attraction, said: "Guests from around the world voted for Kate Winslet in droves - she has clearly got wide reaching global appeal. She is an iconic actress of a generation; a true English Rose and we're delighted to be creating a figure of her."

Other stars to have waxworks at Madame Tussauds include Rihanna, Justin Bieber, Britney Spears, David Beckham and Brad Pitt.

taken from : China Daily

Eddie Murphy Quits as Oscars Host After Exit of Show Producer Brett Ratner

2011-11-10T07:27:00.001+07:00

By Michael White - Nov 10, 2011 4:03 AM GMT+0700

Actor Eddie Murphy withdrew as host of the 2012 Oscar awards telecast following the exit of producer Brett Ratner over controversial remarks.

“I appreciate how Eddie feels about losing his creative partner, Brett Ratner, and we all wish him well,” Tom Sherak, president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, said today in an e-mailed statement.

Murphy, 50, was working with Ratner and a team of writers to headline the show scheduled for Feb. 26 on Walt Disney Co. (DIS)’s ABC network. Ratner, director of the Murphy comedy “Tower Heist,” stepped down yesterday amid criticism over a gay slur made after a promotional screening of the film.

“I completely understand and support each party’s decision with regard to a change of producers for this year’s Academy Awards ceremony,” Murphy said in the statement. “I was truly looking forward to being part of the show that our production team and writers were just starting to develop.”

Ratner was working on the telecast with Don Mischer, who produced last year’s show and also has overseen telecasts of television’s Emmy Awards.

Sherak has approached possible replacements for Ratner including producer Brian Grazer, the Hollywood Reporter said, citing people familiar with the situation. They would join Mischer as co-producer, the newspaper said.

Ratner was also criticized for remarks about sexual escapades with actresses during an interview on Howard Stern’s Nov. 7 radio program. The producer had urged Murphy’s selection as the show’s host. It would have been the actor’s first time hosting the program.

Disney, based in Burbank, California, fell 4.3 percent to $33.79 at the close in New York trading. The shares had declined 5.9 percent this year before today.

To contact the reporter on this story: Michael White in Los Angeles at mwhite8@bloomberg.net

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Anthony Palazzo at apalazzo@bloomberg.net

Bieber, Gaga dominate MTV awards in Belfast

2011-11-08T15:45:00.002+07:00

LONDON - The MTV Europe Music Awards turned into a celebration of Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga Sunday night as the two picked up a number of top prizes, including best male and best female act.

Gaga, striking in several outfits throughout the evening, also won for best song and best video for "Born This Way." Bieber picked up best pop act as well.

Their live performances captured the differences between the two ascendant mega-stars: the teenage Bieber, wholesome and almost impossibly cute; Gaga challenging and aggressively sexual in her approach.

Other awards went to Bruno Mars, Eminem and Katy Perry while the band Queen received the "Global Icon" award, in effect a lifetime achievement award to the now-graying rockers, who closed the show with a spirited set of their classics, including "We Will Rock You" and "We Are the Champions."

It was a rousing end to the awards show, a highlight on the European music calendar that also draws A-list stars from the United States. It was held in Belfast, Northern Ireland, for the first time.

Queen guitarist Brian May said the show focused attention on how Belfast had found "true peace" after years of sectarian violence.

"It's wonderful to be in Belfast," he said.

The show also included a video tribute to the late Amy Winehouse, who died earlier this year in London.

But the evening was dominated by Bieber and Gaga, the two crowd favorites.

The casually dressed Bieber said modestly that he had voted for competitor Kanye West and thanked his fans and family for his first award.

"Never say never, right?" he said, waving his trophy in the air.

After he won his second award, for best pop act, he praised his fans for staying with him despite "a lot of crap on the Internet," an apparent reference to unsupported allegations that he had fathered a child after a brief liaison.

Bieber took the stage a few minutes after Gaga accepted her award in characteristic style.

"Thank you so much, I love you so much. I'm so grateful. I'm really smiling right now, but I know you can't tell," said Gaga, wearing a bizarre silver dress with an oversize tilted hat that completely covered her face except for tiny holes that allowed her to see. She joked that she had had a lot of Botox treatment.

Gaga, who has enjoyed a year of spectacular commercial success, triumphed over a strong field that included a resurgent Jennifer Lopez, Adele, Katy Perry and Beyonce.

She later won awards for best video and best song for "Born This Way." She thanked her "little monsters" for their support and said she regarded "Born This Way" as her most important work to date. She also won an award for having the best fan base.

Earlier, Perry - dressed in a mostly pink jacket and miniskirt - won the best live act award, and the American band Thirty Seconds to Mars won best alternative act and best world stage.

American rapper Eminem was named best hip hop act and Linkin Park took the prize for best rock band.

The show featured performances by headliners Bieber, Gaga, Bruno Mars - who won for best newcomer and for "best push" - Coldplay, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Snow Patrol and other top acts.

Chris Martin, the Coldplay frontman, joked that the band was just "warming everyone up for Justin" on his way into the awards ceremony, which was hosted by Bieber's girlfriend, the actress and singer Selena Gomez.

She admitted she was nervous about her performance while being photographed on the red carpet just before the show.

The awards, which were set up in 1994, have previously featured performances by stars including U2, Paul McCartney, Take That, Beyonce and Jay-Z.

taken from : China Daily

Johnny Depp has private smoking plane

2011-11-08T15:42:00.002+07:00

Johnny Depp flies on private planes so he can smoke.

The 'Rum Diary' star prefers to travel in his own personal aircraft so he can indulge his habit and he also hates using public airlines because he becomes "novelty boy" who other passengers want to stare at.

He said: "On a private plane you can smoke. It makes it an incredibly expensive habit or course, because you can only smoke on a private plane.

"The commercial flight thing, it just gets a little weird when you're standing in line and suddenly you're not just a guy standing in line any more, you become sort of novelty boy."

The 48-year-old actor gave up smoking for two-and-a-half years and only took the habit back up after working on 'The Rum Diary' with Bruce Robinson, with the director turning to alcohol after several years of sobriety when making the film, which is based on the semi-autobiographical by late gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson.

Speaking about taking up smoking again, Johnny told The Guardian newspaper: "It was the gift we gave each other.

"One bang on Bruce's horrible little Cafe Creme cigar. One bang - yeah one hit and it was over. I just said, 'Come on, give me a bang.'

"Bruce and I were on the plane and I just said, 'Oh come on.' You know, we'd had a bit to drink, and..."taken from : China Daily

John Lennon's tooth sells at auction

2011-11-08T15:41:00.002+07:00

One of John Lennon's rotten teeth has fetched £19,500 at auction.

Dentist Michael Zuk purchased the late Beatles legend's molar by telephone bid at the Omega Auction House in Stockport, Greater Manchester, on Saturday (05.11.11), and the 49-year-old dental surgeon was "buzzing" after finalising the deal.

He said: "Most people would say I was crazy, but I think it's fantastic."

The "gruesome" tooth went under the hammer for almost double its £10,000 reserve price and it comes with an affidavit signed by John's former housekeeper Dot Jarlett, who he gave the molar to when she worked for him at his Kenwood mansion in Surrey in the 1960s.

Karen Fairweather, owner of Omega Auction House, said: "John Lennon came back from the dentist and gave it to his housekeeper and said to dispose of it 'or better still give it to your daughter as a souvenir'.

"It's rather gruesome, yellowy, browny with a cavity."

Dot has previously sold other items related to the late singer - who was shot dead aged 40 in 1980 - including a jacket he wore on the cover of the Beatles' 1965 'Rubber Soul' album.

Her son Barry Jarlett explained: "John was in the kitchen and he had this tooth which he had wrapped in a piece of paper.

"He said, 'Dot will you dispose of this,' and then he said, 'Or, as your daughter's a Beatles fan, you can give to her as a souvenir.'

"It is something that we felt was very personal and my mum actually gave it to my sister who has kept it safe."

Earlier this year, a lock of pop star Justin Bieber's hair went under the hammer for £25,000, with all the proceeds going to charity, and a jar of Angelina Jolie's breath once sold for £330.

taken from : China Daily

Kristen Stewart shuns designer clothes

2011-11-08T15:38:00.001+07:00

Kristen Stewart is a "jeans and T-shirt kind of girl."

The 'Twilight' beauty loves wearing designer dresses for film premieres and glamorous showbiz parties, but admits she's happiest in comfortable, everyday clothes the rest of the time.

She told SkyView magazine: "I like fashion because it's part of my work. I dive into the new trends when I have to, but I'm more of jeans and t-shirt kind of girl."

Kristen, 21, also loves second hand clothes and admits she scours vintage stores in the Los Angeles for unusual T-shirts whenever she gets the chance.

She added: "In Los Angeles I like to go to vintage stores, I look for funny T-shirts. I'm very casual when I'm not working, but I think everybody should have their own style, even if they're going to the gym."

Kristen's relaxed fashion sense is something she shares with her boyfriend, 'Twilight' co-star Robert Pattinson, who is also a fan of pre-worn bargains.

He said: "I like kind of s***ty clothes most of the time. I like second hand. That's another thing. I can't really go into second hand stores to get new clothes any more so I end up wearing the same thing every day.

"I wish I could shop in vintage stores the whole time. But because a lot of paparazzi follow me around, it can be difficult."

taken from : China Daily

Jennifer Aniston buys 9m home

2011-11-08T15:36:00.001+07:00

Jennifer Aniston has splashed out $9 million on a new home.

The former 'Friends' star purchased the three-bedroom, 2,873 square foot apartment in New York's exclusive Gramercy Park area and the building includes perks like housekeeping, room and butler service and a membership to the luxury David Barton gym.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Jennifer's new home is the only unit in the building that looks out on Gramercy Park from the master bedroom.

This is not the only New York property Jennifer, 42, owns.

In April, the 'Horrible Bosses' actress purchased the 17th and 18th floors of an apartment building in Manhattan for more than $7 million.

And in August, Jennifer and boyfriend Justin Theroux moved into a two-bedroom home.

The couple are renting the small $3 million property in Hollywood after the Jennifer sold her lavish Beverly Hills mansion for $38 million.

A source said: "One bedroom is the master and the other is currently furnished as a guest room.

"It is a really romantic house with great views and a warm feeling in every room. If they decide they like it, it's also for sale."

Jennifer and Justin's new home boasts hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, a pool, hidden garden and a garage which has been converted into a family room.

The source added: "They're really excited about it."

taken from : China Daily

Tito Jackson says film shows Michael's loving nature

2011-11-05T19:37:00.003+07:00

Tito Jackson says people will learn that Michael Jackson was a loving man who wanted "to change the world" when they watch new documentary 'Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon'.

The singer appears in the film - which features interviews with more than 50 of the music legend's closest friends and family members and focuses on his rise from child prodigy to the 'King of Pop' and his shock death in June 2009 - and insists it shows aspects of his brother's life the public would not be aware of.

Speaking at the film's UK premiere at the Empire Cinema in London's Leicester Square last night (02.11.11), Tito told BANG Showbiz: "The documentary made me laugh, it made me smile, cry, I went through a lot of emotions, and a lot of memories ... I think the fans will learn a little more about Michael, what he was like and who he is, what he meant and what the fans meant to him. He loved everyone and he adored his fans. In his music he tried to give messages to make the world one unit. He wanted to change the world and help those who were in need, and he did. He left some beautiful music and things and the messages in his songs are brilliant and I want them to last forever."

Jackson 5 star Tito's sister Rebbie also appears in the documentary - which was produced by Michael's close friend David Gest and directed by Andrew Eastel - and she admits her interviews for the film had a cathartic effect on her.

Speaking on the red carpet, she said: "It was emotional to be part of it, I didn't think it was going to be as emotional as it is, but I'm happy I did it, because as much as I wanted to do it for myself as a type of therapy, I really wanted to do it for Michael. I wanted people to really see what actually happened."

A host stars attended the premiere, including producer David, Alexandra Burke, Peabo Bryson, 'EastEnders' actress Patsy Palmer, 'Jimmy Mack' singer Martha Reeves and Jodie Marsh.

'Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon' - released by Universal Pictures - is available to buy on DVD and Blu Ray now.

taken from : China Daily

Kitchen 'nerd' Kristen Stewart

2011-11-05T19:34:00.003+07:00

Actress Kristen Stewart protects herself from the sun as she poses at her hand and footprint ceremony at the Grauman's Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, California November 3, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]

Robert Pattinson says his girlfriend Kristen Stewart is a cooking "nerd".

The actor has revealed the actress is obsessed with culinary TV programmes and would watch them in-between takes on the set of the last two 'Twilight Saga' movies.

He said: "She's a nerd when it comes to cooking, especially on set. It was bizarre! She'd be in the trailer and the cooking channel was always on."

Robert - who plays vampire Edward Cullen in the film franchise - admits he is very protective about his girlfriend and he won't tolerate people unfairly criticising Kristen, who portrays Edward's lover Bella Swan in the movie series.

He explained: "I'm protective of anyone close to me. If people say anything about my family or friends, I feel protective and that's the one time I feel like I really have to do something about it."

Robert and Kristen have been in a relationship since 2008, but only publically admitted their romance last year.

taken from : China Daily

Judge orders 30 days in jail for Lindsay Lohan

2011-11-03T18:58:00.002+07:00

Lohan is sentenced to 30 days in jail.[Photo/Agencies]

A judge on Wednesday sentenced Lindsay Lohan to 30 days in jail for violating probation and ordered the troubled actress to perform a strict schedule of community service and psychological counseling.

The "Mean Girls" actress must report to jail on November 9 and will not be eligible for house arrest or early release, unless required by law. With overcrowding in Los Angeles jails, the sheriff could order Lohan's release after just a few days.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Stephanie Sautner sentenced Lohan to a total 300 days, but stayed the remaining 270 depending on how well the actress performs community service. After jail, Lohan must begin a five-month routine of work performing cleaning and other tasks at the Los Angeles county morgue, as well as regularly attending counseling.

"(This) sentence is known as 'putting the keys to the jail in the defendant's hands,'" Sautner told Lohan, because the ultimate responsibility for staying out of a jail cell depends entirely on Lohan's actions.

Lohan, 25, dressed demurely in a blue-and-white polka dot dress and answered "yes" to the judge's questions on whether she understood the sentence. At various times she appeared on the verge of tears. She left the courtroom without comment, and her spokesman said there would be no statement.

Lohan rose to fame as a likable child star of Disney movies such as "The Parent Trap," but has been in and out of trouble -- spending time in rehab and in jail -- since 2007 when she was convicted on a drunk driving and drug possession charges.

Earlier this year, she was convicted of stealing a gold necklace from a jewelry story. At that time, judge Sautner sentenced her to 480 hours community service at a Los Angeles women's detention center and at the county morgue.

Two weeks ago, Judge Sautner revoked her probation because Lohan failed to adequately perform the service at the women's center and repeatedly missed court-ordered psychotherapy sessions. Judge Sautner angrily admonished Lohan and characterized her actions as having "blown off" her sentence.

In court on Wednesday, prosecutors said Lohan had canceled 12 of her 20 scheduled sessions at the women's center and missed 14 of 19 scheduled psychotherapy appointments.

Judge Sautner asked Lohan if she admitted to violating her probation by missing the appointments, and the actress answered "yes, your honor."

The judge then reinstated probation and changed Lohan's sentence. If all goes according to plan, Lohan's community service would end by March 29, 2012, and she would serve out the remaining days of her sentence under her own supervision.

taken from : China Daily