Feed Them!

Would someone please feed Nicole and Lindsay?

Now She's Camera Shy?

Paris Hilton insisted on stripping to her own record while filming a saucy scene in new movie House Of Wax in a bid to combat embarrassment.

The hotel heiress was mortified when she realized she had to remove her clothing for a scene in the film, and went to great lengths to make it as pleasant as possible. She says, "They were actually playing my single Screwed when I was shooting it. It was a closed set and I only had Jaume, the director, there, who I trust.

"No one else was there because I was embarrassed. I was dancing and taking my clothes off. It felt so cheesy but I was doing it to my song, so it felt really sexy." And Hilton is more than happy with the end result: "I think it looks good. I'm very happy."

--Please. I highly doubt she was "mortified."

A Little Too Handsy?

Penelope Cruz regrets grabbing pal Salma Hayek's backside during a recent photo shoot, because it sparked stories the friends were actually lesbians.

The Spanish star insists she was sick with the flu and a little delirious when she let her hand linger on Hayek's butt at a press conference for their new film Bandidas. She says, "I grabbed Salma's a** just to keep things moving, because everyone was a little slow. And, of course, the energy changed when I did that. There are magazine covers in Mexico describing us as these lesbians because of that. A lot of people were saying we were lovers."

She Sucks

Star Jones infuriated a fellow moviegoer at the Tribeca Film Festival screening of "The Muppets' Wizard of Oz" when she and hubby Al Reynolds sat in his family's assigned seats.

The miffed moviegoer bellowed to festival volunteers, "Those are my seats, and I need them!" as Star, Al and five friends ignored the commotion. "We can't move Star Jones," one volunteer was heard whispering to her colleague. Eventually, the uprooted cinephile was seated in what was supposed to have been Star's seat — and the seat was said to be very thankful.

Family's Blessing

In a statement released to "Access Hollywood," the father of actress Katie Holmes responded on behalf of their family to the news that she is dating Tom Cruise.

"Happy and excited for Katie," says the statement from Toledo attorney Martin Holmes. "She has a good head on her shoulders and we trust her judgment. We know Tom Cruise is a humanitarian and we feel good about that."

--Additionally, it was overheard that he introduced her to his kids already.

Melania and The Duck

In her first big commercial, model Melania Trump is starring alongside a duck - not The Donald. "He's a real pro," Trump told The Associated Press about the Aflac duck, her quack of a co-star in an upcoming television commercial. "He made me feel very comfortable."

Trump and the duck star in a 30-second spot for Aflac insurance titled, "Experiment." The duck's speaking part is usually limited to his famous "Aflaaaaaaaac" squawk. But in the ad, a mad scientist swaps Trump's sultry voice with the infamous spokesduck, voiced by Gilbert Gottfried.

"We want to give Aflac some sex appeal, that's what the commercial is all about," said the Slovenian-born Trump, the bride of billionaire Donald Trump. At the end of the commercial, she quacks out the familiar squawk, while looking down at her new duck feet. The ad will debut May 2.

"I love the Aflac commercials," Trump said Tuesday. "They're really funny. I thought what better way to do my first big commercial than with one of America's top icons, the Aflac duck."

--One of America's top icons?

Disgusting

The television show "Entertainment Tonight" has won the rights to the planned May wedding of Mary Kay Letourneau and her former sixth-grade pupil Vili Fualaau, the father of her two youngest children.

ET and its sister show, "The Insider," planned to begin offering the first in a series of interviews with the couple Thursday. The date and location of the wedding have not yet been disclosed.

Letourneau, 43, served 7 1/2 years in prison after she was convicted of raping Fualaau, 22. She was released last August. The couple first met when he was in second grade. Their relationship became sexual when he was 12 and she was a 34-year-old married mother of four and an elementary school teacher.

The couple's two daughters - 7-year-old Audrey and 6-year-old Alexis - will be flower girls, Fualaau told ET. "We're excited to have as many family members involved as possible," Letourneau said, suggesting "special roles" for her two sons and two daughters from her previous marriage. Fualaau said he proposed to Letourneau "seven or eight years ago." "She's the same person I fell in love with a long time ago," he said.

--I'm just not sure what to say about this one.

Doctored Photos

To match Us Weekly's cover photos of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie together on an African beach, Star magazine doctored two separate oceanside pictures of each actor.

The issue proclaims, "Brad & Angelina: Caught Together! On Vacation." But tucked away on page 8 is a disclaimer noting the image is a "composite of two photographs."

Us Weekly won a bidding war for the real photos by spending a reported $500,000 for the pictures. They show Pitt, Jolie and her 3-year-old son Maddox playing together on a beach in Kenya. Pitt and Jolie aren't shown being affectionate with each other. The Us Weekly photos were bought from Big Pictures, a London-based photography agency.

Star's photos were drawn from a picture of Pitt in Anguilla, a Caribbean island, in January, and one of Jolie and Maddox in Virginia a year ago. Since that time, Maddox has grown noticeably.

For Sale

Denise Richards has placed the house that she and Charlie Sheen once called home on the market to be sold.

The residence is located in the pricey San Fernando Valley town of Encino and was formerly home to Fat Actress star Kirstie Alley. The Sheens paid slightly more than $4 million for it, according to TV's Extra.

How Do You Like Them Apples?

Next Monday, Bacardi will launch its new apple-flavored rum with the Bacardi Big Apple Fashion Show, a runway romp featuring designs by labels like Escada, Joseph Abboud, Rocawear, and Halston—all in Bacardi’s signature apple green color.

Jessica Alpert-Goldman, designer of the label World According to Jess, designed a one-of-a-kind dress made from over 600 grosgrain ribbons patchworked together to create a skirt and bustier. This outfit will also serve as her submission for Bravo’s Project Runway.

The catwalk is cast with celebs like Bai Ling, Jai Rodriguez, and Patrick McDonald, all strutting in the name of their favorite charity. Bacardi will also donate 5 pounds of apples to City Harvest for every person who attends the show. Ling, for her part, is confirmed to model the gown created by Halston.

Drama Desk Nominations

Drama Desk Nominations Announced:

Monty Python's Spamalot scored 12 nominations to lead the Broadway competition. It was followed closely by The Light in the Piazza with 11 nods and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels with 10.

It's the Cameras!

Riiiiggghhhtt:

Renee Zellweger says photographers manipulate pictures to make her look thinner.

The actress has come under criticism for rapidly losing weight following her portrayal of Bridget Jones reports Contactmusic.com. She said: "I know that certain photographers actually slim me down further as they can sell the pictures for a huger rate. "What can I do about that? Hardly complain."

Cruise and Holmes are a Couple

Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes are dating.

Cruise, 42, and Holmes, 26, "have only been dating a couple of weeks," says a friend of Cruise. The romance was confirmed by his rep after he and Holmes were photographed together, hand in hand, in Rome on Wednesday evening.

"She's a really genuine person," says the friend. "She's the real deal."

Cruise split with girlfriend Penelope Cruz last year. He and Nicole Kidman, who have two children, divorced in 2001. Holmes and actor Chris Klein broke off their engagement in March. The actress, who launched her career on TV's Dawson's Creek, appears in the summer action film Batman Begins. Cruise stars in director Steven Spielberg's War of the Worlds.

Samantha and Ross?

Rumors are flying about a relationship between Sex and the City vixen Kim Cattrall and Friends star David Schwimmer. Us Weekly claims that the two former television actors have been spotted "five or six times" having romantic dinners in London.

According to the item, Schwimmer, 38, is starting a run on the London stage, while Cattrall's stint is coming to an end. The magazine claims that Schwimmer and Cattrall, 48, were spotted dining separately at the members only club, Fifty, but later ended up kissing at the end of the night.

Schwimmer's rep denies the relationship saying, "I don't think he knows Kim Cattrall. He has never been to that restaurant." Nonetheless, Us Weekly stands by its story.

On the Catwalk

Ashton Kutcher is set to return to his modelling roots, when he takes to the catwalk for a special charity fashion show.

The actor will join Cindy Crawford, Jason Ritter, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Tyson Beckford, Daisy Fuentes and Serena and Venus Williams for the third annual Runway For Life, taking place at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The celebrity fashion will benefit the city's St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Man-e-Cure?

Ok, male readers, what's your take on this: The Essie Man-e-Cure

Yes? Maybe? No? Hell No? Only if I'm feeling metrosexual?

Black Eyed Peas to Split

With the success The Black Eyed Peas has achieved in the hip-hop world since 1998, it is hard to imagine any of the members would walk away. Ananova.com quoting ITV.com reports that the socially conscious group is planning to call it quits and go their separate ways after the release of their next album, Monkey Business, scheduled to hit shelves this summer.

"Fergie has her record, I have a Spanish record coming out and Apl has a Philippino record coming out," said Taboo. "We decided to branch out and show the world that we as individuals could represent our own styles."

Mirror, Mirror, On the Wall

After having twins last November, Julia Roberts is even more beautiful, according to People magazine. The actress graces the cover of People's annual "50 Most Beautiful People" issue, on newsstands Friday. It is a record-breaking third time that Roberts has been the issue's cover girl.

"Now that she has her babies, she has reached the peak of beauty," the magazine quotes Roberts' friend and makeup artist Genevieve. "She is satisfied and content. All of that shows." Roberts, 37, gave birth to twins Phinnaeus and Hazel with husband-cameraman Danny Moder; they are the couple's first children. It is her record ninth time on the list, a feat mirrored only by Halle Berry, who is also in the issue.

This year, People also polled online readers for their opinions. With over 500,000 votes cast, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie were the overwhelming winners of most beautiful man and woman. The two have recently been linked romantically by tabloid reports, though neither star has confirmed a relationship.

Also making the list are Jennifer Aniston, Oprah Winfrey, Lindsay Lohan, Jamie Foxx, Eva Longoria, Miami Heat basketball player Dwyane Wade and Mischa Barton. Some famous couples were also chosen: model Heidi Klum and her fiance Seal, Penelope Cruz and Matthew McConaughey, and Jude Law and Sienna Miller.

Rubbish?

Becks Says:

David Beckham has spoken about his anger over claims by his children's former nanny that his marriage was on the rocks. Beckham and his wife Victoria intend to take legal action over Abbie Gibson's allegations. The England captain gave an interview in Madrid and said he was upset by the fresh speculation about his relationship with 31-year-old Victoria.

He said: "I find it quite amazing, unbelievable. "When you invite someone into your home to look after your children, your most precious possessions, you have to trust them. "My wife and I are very happy, we are normal people and we have arguments like everyone, but I love my wife.

"I was brought up to treat women well and with respect, I know that if I didn't my mum would be the first to tell me off."

Kids Know

In honor of Mother's Day, America Online asked over 75,000 kids ranging in age from 6 to 12 who they think would make the coolest celebrity mom.

Out of Jessica Simpson, Jennifer Lopez, Gwen Stefani and Britney Spears, it seems ironic that the only one on the list who is potentially someone's mother would come in dead last — but Mrs. Kevin Federline did.

For the record, the kids believe Simpson would make the coolest mom with Lopez a close second.

Tina Fey Pregnant

Weekend Update anchor Tina Fey has some breaking news of her own: The Saturday Night Live star and her husband of four years, SNL composer Jeff Richmond, are expecting their first child in September, a rep for the show confirms.

With the season finale on May 21, Fey should still be able to trade quips with co-anchor Amy Poehler until the season wraps.

Simpsons' Staying Power

You know that a show has been around a long time when they start measuring milestones in episodic increments of 50. But it's understandable that "The Simpsons" should want to make a big deal out of hitting 350 episodes with this Sunday's installment.

As the legendary Fox series wraps up its 16th season, the denizens of Springfield are wading in some uncharted prime-time waters. When executive producer Al Jean boasts that "The Simpsons" "just enjoyed the best 16th season of any comedy ever," that's because no other comedy has ever made it this far.

How many episodes is 350? More than the combined total of "Seinfeld" and "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." "The Simpsons" will pass "Dallas" (357 episodes) on the all-time series list before 2005 is out. Then it takes aim at the only two comedies to have produced more segments: "My Three Sons" at 380 episodes and "The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet" at a somewhat astounding 435.

Happy Birthday to the Twinkie!

The Twinkie Turns 75!

Some brief history: Twinkies were invented by Jimmy Dewar, manager of the Schiller Park bakery near Chicago, in 1930. He wanted to make better use of the shortcake pans that were used only during strawberry season, so he made spongy yellow cakes and injected them with banana cream. He came up with the name Twinkie when he saw a sign for "Twinkle Toe" shoes in St. Louis, Mo. Cream filling replaced the banana filling when there was a banana shortage during World War II.

My favorite fun fact: A Twinkie was included in 1999's White House millennium time capsule, representing 'an object of enduring American symbolism.'

You can read more, here.

WTF?

This radio station is claiming to have Britney's pregnancy test:

"We have a positive home pregnancy test that was left in the bathroom trash can of Britney and Kev's hotel room a couple of months ago (Feb. '05). We've had this for a few weeks now but, out of respect, wanted to wait until official announcement had been made."

--Seriously. What next?

Engaged?

Us Weekly is reporting that Matt Damon is following in pal Ben Affleck's footsteps and getting engaged.

Damon reportedly popped the question to Luciana Barroso, a Florida-based bartender. No comment from Damon's rep.

Paris and Her Privacy

Socialite Paris Hilton has upped security at her home in Los Angeles in a bid to keep prying paparazzi from catching her and new housemate Paris Latsis getting romantic.

She says celebrity snappers are beginning to get too close for comfort, and she's determined to keep them away. She says, "I have so much surveillance and I have the best security systems, I have my guard dog and I have three security guards always outside my house."

But the guards weren't there recently when the paparazzi chased her down a one-way street. She explains, "I was driving home and I drove up the wrong street and they tried to corner me in the middle of a dead end. I started screaming, it was so scary. "I don't know what they were doing. They were trying to block me in and I was in my Ferrari and I just went so fast and I think they were so scared I was gonna crash into them so they moved.

"As soon as I walk out of my house there are 50 photographers, so it's hard. They live outside my house so it's really scary. They're just parked on the street outside, they're brutal. "When I'm at home I don't want the paparazzi in my private life. They're not supposed to be filming and taking pictures of that too. They're always there. It's hard. I scream at them to leave but they don't listen."

--Please, Paris. We've seen it all.

Kate Spade Collect

A new line for Kate Spade:

Kate Spade has launched Kate Spade Collect, a luxury line of purses in python, silver, and velvet that clearly have no place in a soccer mom’s closet. See here the Bermuda Tippi Clutch.

It can be yours for a mere $1,200. ;)

Viva Las Vegas

Though their marital status is constantly up for debate in the celeb weeklies, Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson have bought a condo at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.

While they didn't take the penthouse, the stars of "The Newlyweds" bought one of the highest units in the 50-story tower with views of the Strip and the nearby mountains. The 1,200-square-foot, one-bedroom unit is said to have cost over $1 million. Reps for Simpson had no comment.

Caption This!

Caption this!

Why They Called Things Off

When Rebecca Romijn and John Stamos announced their split in April 2004, after five years of marriage, the press seemed shocked, but according to a report in The New York Daily News the relationship had been over for a long time. According to the paper's spywitness, Romijn, her 'Crossing Jordan' boyfriend Jerry O'Connell and 'Oprah' designer Nate Berkus swapped dirt during an intimate lunch this weekend at The Four Seasons Hotel in Los Angeles.

"Did you start dating instantly as soon as your marriage broke up?" Berkus was heard asking Romijn. "Yeah, but we'd actually been separated a year before we told the press about it," Romijn explained. "We were in couples' therapy before and after we separated, and we briefly got back together. But we fought from the very beginning, and we just fought and fought. I just got so sick of John being mad all the time. He was always so mad."

While neither party has ever discussed the real reason for the breakup publicly, the tattler's report apparently irritated the couple's Hollywood flack. Lewis Kay, who reps both Romijn and Stamos, responded to inquiries from the The New York Daily News by saying: "It is unfortunate that your source would eavesdrop on what was obviously a private and personal conversation."

At the lunch, Romijn went on to discuss how she hooked up with her new flame. After meeting five years ago at the Beverly Hills Hotel in an encounter in which she recalls, "He made me laugh," the two didn't become hot and heavy until June 2004 when they met by the pool at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas during the Maxim Hot 100 party. While the buff O'Connell was lounging near her cabana, he jumped into a conversation about making a film "choreographed to the Bellagio fountains," Romijn said. "He wanted to know if he could hold the 'boom' for the movie.Õ He kept saying 'I'm an excellent boomer. Please let me boom for you.'"

According to the conversation, the deal was sealed when O'Connell agreed to Romijn's request that he wear "M.C. Hammer Buttafuoco pants and a cutoff shirt." They've been together ever since.

Norma Jean's Little Black Book

The mother of all little black books:

Marilyn Monroe's little black book is expected to fetch £5,000 when it goes up for auction in June.

The address book contains the names and numbers of some of Hollywood's biggest names of the Fifties, including Frank Sinatra, Henry Fonda and her ex-husband Arthur Miller. There are no details of President John F Kennedy, however. The book is one of 200 items belonging to the star, who died in 1962.

Stork Arrivals

The stork arrived for a few celebs yesterday:

--Singer Carnie Wilson has given birth to a beautiful baby girl, Lola Sofia, with husband Rob Bonfiglio. The brown-haired, blue/hazel-eyed baby weighed in at 7 pounds 2 ounces, and was born on Friday, April 22 at 5:02 p.m in Los Angeles, CA. Carnie's Beach Boys' father, Brian Wilson, was also present at the birth, and Carnie's daughter entered the world while the Beach Boys' Pet Sounds was playing in the room.

--Call it luck or just genetics, but another member of the Dixie Chicks has given birth to twins! Last May, singer Martie Maguire welcomed twin girls, and now her sister and fellow "Chick," Emily Robison, announces the arrival of a new little boy and girl. The fraternal twins, Henry Benjamin and Julianna Tex, were born to Emily and her husband Charlie on April 14. Julianna weighed in at 6 pounds 10 ounces, while Henry was 6 pounds 14 ounces. The babies join an older brother, Gus, age 2 1/2 .

(And the names are relatively normal! Except for maybe "Tex" as a middle name...).

Downey Jr.'s Appreciation

Actor Robert Downey Jr. left host Lorraine Kelly lost for words by telling her: "Your t**s look great!"

The former Hollywood bad boy had daytime viewers choking on their cornflakes when he made the remark on Great Britain's ITV1 show This Morning. Kelly, wearing an orange cardigan and black camisole which revealed a hint of cleavage, was hosting the show in place of Fern Britton.

She welcomed Downey Jr to the show by telling him: "You look fantastic, you look really well." The 40-year-old actor replied: "Thanks. I was going to say that your t**s look great too!"

A clearly shocked Kelly, 45, said "Thank you, that's nice," as Downey Jr added: "Particularly today." Kelly managed to say: "Oh good, well I'm glad I made you happy."

Whore College

The world’s oldest profession is now being taught in the world’s newest school.

On May 4, the Epicenter Gallery in San Francisco will become the site of the world’s first “Whore College,” to teach wannabe working girls and guys the ins and outs of prostitution.

The kinky college is the brainchild of prostitute and sex activist Carol Leigh and will offer classes in titillating topics like “Beauty Standards and Sex Work,” “Do-It- Yourself Web Cam” and “Safer Oral Sex Techniques.”

Leigh – who calls herself the “scarlet harlot” – claims there’s been a big demand for sex worker studies ever since the dot com bust of the late 1990s caused many Silicon Valley employees to become sex workers instead.

She figures the “Whore College” is the best way to lay down the facts to aspiring prostitutes. Students can qualify for scholarships and will have a chance to earn a degree but don’t need to worry about passing tests because Leigh admits she’s “too liberal” to make the pupils pass a final.

Scratch It

K.Fed's got the itch:

Is Lauer Single?

Today Show star Matt Lauer's six-year marriage to stunning model Annette Roque is over, sources claim. Reports claim that in recent weeks the 47- year-old TV star has been secretly shopping for his own New York City apartment.

"I heard he and Annette are breaking up," confirmed Lauer's ex-wife Nancy Alspaugh. "I was not shocked to hear that. But it's very sad."

Dutch-born Annette, 39, the mother of their two children, is said to be heartbroken by the difficulties in their marriage which in the past has been dogged by stories of his womanizing.

Observant

Christina Aguilera's fiance made last-minute alterations to her engagement ring before proposing to her, because she was wearing pink nail polish.

Jordan Bratman realized the $114,000 engagement ring from celebrity jeweler Stephen Webster would clash with the singer's nail color, so he begged Webster to quickly alter his creation.

He says, "I'd asked Stephen to create a ring with one big diamond surrounded by lots of light pink ones. But when I went home that evening, I noticed that Christina was wearing this pink nail polish she loves, which would clash with the diamonds. I had to get him (Webster) to change the ring pretty quickly."

Bratman knew his celebrity lover would say yes when he proposed to her at her favourite restaurant earlier this year: "She told me afterwards that she had no idea what I had planned, but I wouldn't have asked her if I'd had any doubt that she'd accept."

--I'm sorry, but what guy notices nail color?

And Now They're Novelists

Multitasking:

Mariah Carey has announced plans to write a series of children's books.

Following in the footsteps of fellow diva Madonna, Mariah will publish a series of illustrated children's tales following the life a bi-racial orphan girl. Entitled Automatic Princess, the stories will be based upon her own experiences growing up as part of a mixed-race family, website digitalspy.co.uk reports.

Mariah said: "The way I do things, I need to be involved. I wouldn't just be like, 'Here's a concept, go run with it.' "It's still something I really want to do, and I'm going to do, and I'm going to start getting that into production soon."

Meanwhile, pop and movie star J.Lo is also set to become a writer.

The 35-year-old beauty will pen a self-help book on how celebrities can deal with the US paparazzi. She's well qualified for the task. J.Lo's long-running affair with Hollywood hunk Ben Affleck gained her worldwide attention.

She said: "Nobody likes to hear somebody in the public eye, who they feel makes a lot of money, complain. So we don't, but it is a very strange thing. "Nobody writes books about how to deal with that, so I think I'll do that next."

--Why do stars think they are good at EVERYTHING? They should BOTH just stick to singing.

Good Deed

Motley Crue is joining efforts to find a Baltimore area woman missing since March 6, when she failed to meet friends for the band's concert in Washington.

Tracey Gardner-Tetso, 32, of Rosedale, was reported missing by her husband after she didn't meet friends at the "Red, White & Crue Tour 2005" show at the MCI Center.

The band will match an earlier reward of up to $10,000 to increase publicity about the woman's disappearance, said Katie McNeil of 10th Street Entertainment, Motley Crue's management company.

"We hope our involvement helps bring more attention to this case, and anyone with information will step forward," Nikki Sixx, the group's bass player, said in a recent statement.

Elton to Wed

Singer Elton John hopes to marry his long-term partner David Furnish in a civil ceremony in December -- even though he will be too busy to take his dream man away for a romantic honeymoon.

John plans to take immediate advantage of new British legislation coming into effect on Dec. 5 which will allow same sex couples to be legally recognized as a civil partnership.

He's already making arrangements to follow in British royal Prince Charles' footsteps when he married Camilla Parker Bowles on April 9 -- by exchanging vows in Windsor, England.

The 58-year-old singer said, "We definitely want to do it around the middle of December, probably in Windsor. But there will be no honeymoon. I'm on tour."

John has been with Canadian television producer Furnish since 1993.

Ferrell's Next Project

Will Ferrell will be starring in a big-screen version of the classic kids' show "Land of the Lost" for Universal. Adam McKay, who teamed with Ferrell for last year's "Anchorman," will direct.

"Land of the Lost" was an early morning program that ran from 1974-1977 and later enjoyed a rebirth when it ran for years in reruns.

"Land of the Lost" tells the story of forest ranger Rick Marshall, who falls into a time vortex while rafting the Colorado River with his children, Rick and Holly. The three are transported to a mysterious, forgotten world where they encounter such oddities as dinosaurs, talking monkeys and cavemen.

Lash Liberation

Lash Liberation:

Former televangelist Tammy Faye Messner (she dropped the Bakker)says losing her trademark eyelashes during her struggle with cancer was a liberating experience.

"I realized I wasn't just eyelashes," said Tammy Faye, adding she glued on false ones. "A person is more than just what you look like on the outside."

On Marriage

Celebs and marriage: some are ready, some are not:

Christina Ricci: Ready

The actress has been dating Saving Private Ryan star Adam Goldbery for a year.

She also revealed she's desperate to have children reports IOL.com.She said: "I would marry Adam because I am very traditional and conservative. I definitely want children. I probably wouldn't plan to have a child before I was married but you can't control everything."

Eva Longoria: Not ready

The 30-year-old Latin actress who plays maneater Gabrielle Solis on the hit show, tells Rolling Stone magazine, "I don't mind falling in love. I just don't want to get married. I wouldn't mind having a baby. I just don't want to get married."

Eva, who last year got divorced from US daytime soap actor Tyler Christopher, added: "I've come to realize that marriage is hard. That's why I just want to date now - and have a good time. "My motto is 'fall in love a lot and fall hard!' I need constant attention and affection."

Lopez Gets Kidney From Wife

George Lopez underwent a kidney transplant with an organ donated by his wife, a publicist for the actor-comedian said Monday.

George and Ann Lopez "are resting comfortably in their Los Angeles home and are both expected to make a full recovery," according to a statement from spokeswoman Marleah Leslie.

Ugsville

Looks like Uma is taking fashion tips from the bag lady duo, Mary-Kate and Ashley:

Keep Them Crossed, Paris

Paris Hilton just can't seem to keep her skirt down.

The club-hopping socialite showed up last weekend at the Palms Casino Resort in Vegas with her sister, Nicky, and promptly went into the resort's nightclub, Rain. According to spywitnesses, guests were treated to an unexpected surprise when Paris' skirt kept hiking up to reveal she had no underwear on.

"Nicky was wearing the same dress, although she was sporting a g-string," our source said. "Apparently the visible thong was enough to invite a photographer to insert his camera inside [Nicky's] dress for a picture."

Kelly's Pink Pup

Here comes PETA:

Kelly Osbourne has dyed Piglet, her Old English bulldog puppy, pink.

To add fuel to the fire, Kelly opted for a human formula, not a special doggy dye.

Robbed!

Teen screen star Lindsay Lohan was shocked to discover burglars had broken into her plush Los Angeles pad when she returned from a trip to New York earlier this month.

The criminals relieved the actress of more than $10,000 worth of electronic equipment including two television sets and a DVD player, according to TV show Celebrity Justice.

Police told the program they are sure they are hunting more than one suspect due to the size of the TV sets, and that they discovering discarded liquor bottles at the crime scene. Lohan is reportedly happy that no life was lost in the incident, which saw her bedroom ransacked, only replaceable material goods.

Anna Nicole's Wardrobe Malfunction

Busty model Anna Nicole Smith left onlookers open-mouthed at Nashville, Tennessee's Grand Ole Opry when she flashed her breasts and underpants at the audience.

The reality TV star was busy showing off her dance skills at the famous country music haunt last Saturday when she opted to break away from her partner and launch into an improvised solo routine. Crowd members looked on in disbelief as the Texan unleashed a series of eye-catching moves.

One witness tells gossip website The Scoop, "She was on stage dancing with some cloggers when she broke loose from her partner and did her own thing. She was shimmying around, shaking her breasts, and lifted up her skirt in a sort of square-dance-can-can move and gave the audience a view of her panties. And then she did some sort of crazy dance where turned around and stuck her butt out at the audience and lifted her skirt. At one point, her boob popped out."

Bond Poll

Now that MGM, the studio that owns the Bond franchise, has gone from an independent company to being owned by a Sony-led consortium, Hollywood is abuzz on the future of the fabled spy.

Pierce Brosnan now has four Bond flicks under his belt, but does not appear likely to remain for much longer, if at all. MGM is negotiating a two-picture deal with the actor worth $40 million, according to the trade paper Variety, but no deal has been announced.

So who's next?

Clive? Bale? Orlando? Jude? Ewan? Clooney? Someone else?

Even Her Dog's Famous

Mariah Carey logs on to her pet dog's website every day.

Her pampered pooch, Jack, has become so famous in his own right the diva's Japanese fans have built a site dedicated solely to him. Mariah is so fascinated with the website she regularly checks in to the news pages, entitled The Emancipation of Jack, after her chart-topping album, and the doggy-obsessed message board.

Mariah, when lonely on a recent photo shoot had Jack flown first class to be by her side, said: "I laughed out loud for 10 minutes when I found out about Jack's website. He really is a very cool dog. Some of his Japanese fans built it for him.
"It talks all about him - like his swimming antics - on his website, they love Jack."

--What is wrong with people?

Bootylicious

Pop beauty Beyonce Knowles has a love/hate relationship with the Destiny's Child-invented term "Bootylicious."

The R+B trio stormed into the charts with "Bootylicious" in 2001, which resulted in the word becoming a popularly used adjective to describe a sexy appearance.

Knowles says, "I'm proud I got it into the dictionary but you know, I hate that word." "Every time someone introduces us now, 'It's the bootylicious Destiny's Child.' "If I had known it was going to have this life of its own, I would have given it a different definition."

Cynthia Says "Thanks"

Former Sex And The City star Cynthia Nixon has praised the media for treating her lesbian relationship with respect.

The redhead actress became headline news last year when she exposed her romance with Christine Marinoni to the world, but the mum of two is pleasantly surprised the paparazzi have stopped following them around and allowed them to enjoy their relationship in private.

She says, "There was an undue amount of focus on our relationship at first but it wasn't so bad. The explosion was soon over and people are very respectful about it."

Ebert Shines

Roger Ebert has thumbed his way to a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

"I just read that when Saul Bellow won the Nobel Prize, he said, `The child in me is delighted. The adult in me is skeptical.' I feel the same way, except that the adult in me is delighted, too," Ebert said in a statement.

The movie critic will receive the honor on Hollywood Boulevard on June 23.

--Wow. After all the years he's put in, Ryan Seacrest gets one before Ebert. Pathetic.

New Deal

After parting ways with Reebok a week ago, Andy Roddick certainly isn’t licking any endorsement deal wounds.

Lacoste confirmed yesterday that it had signed the 22-year old tennis star to a five-year contract deal that has Roddick becoming the company’s sponsored athlete. No official terms were divulged, but sources say the deal is worth a reported $5 million annually.

Roddick’s contract with Reebok officially expires on May 1, and not a moment too soon for Lacoste.

Casting News

--Natalie Portman has signed on to Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium, the story of a magical toy store that teaches jaded children to believe. Zach Helm makes his directorial debut on the pic, which begins shooting Monday.

--Jack Black is heading south of the border for an untitled project helmed by Napolean Dynamite's Jared Hess. Black stars as a Mexican priest who moonlights as a wrestler to raise money for a local orphanage.

--Meryl Streep will headline Mother Courage, the New York Public Theater production penned by Angels in America mastermind Tony Kushner. Curtains rise in Central Park next summer.

--The King of Queens' Kevin James has signed on to the Disney comedy as a substitute teacher who disastrously fills in on a sixth grade class' annual outing. Cameras start rolling in late summer.

--Jeff Daniels joins Robin Williams and Cheryl Hines in the comedy, RV, about a road-tripping family that decides to remain in the wilderness.

--Anne Heche has just signed on to the holiday telepic Silver Bells , as a librarian who takes a runaway teen under her wing. Cameras roll next week on the Hallmark production.

Hatcher Slapped Brosnan

Pierce Brosnan, 51, has admitted losing it with Teri Hatcher when she was playing a Bond girl because she kept him hanging about on the set of Bond flick Tomorrow Never Dies.

"I got very upset with her as she kept me waiting for hours," he said. "I must admit I let slip a few words which weren't very nice."

Bridges were still not built even when her lateness was revealed as a result of pregnant Teri's morning sickness. Still, Teri managed to get her revenge--the Bond girl apparently slapped Pierce for real when filming a stunt.

The Blind Leading the Blind

Madonna has reportedly been offering Britney Spears pregnancy advice.

The mother-of-two, who has become close friends with the 23-year-old singer, was only too happy to oblige when Britney wanted an expert to help guide her through her first pregnancy.

A source said: "When Britney found out she was expecting one of the first things she did was phone Madonna. "Madonna has been sending books and offering advice about pregnancy to Britney almost daily."

Earlier this year, it was claimed Britney had asked Madonna to be godmother to her firstborn - even though she wasn't pregnant at the time.

--Think it will be difficult for Brit to explain to the little one why it is she made out with his/her godmother?

I Feel the Need...

Wouldn't this be sweet?

Ah, the sweet sounds of Kenny Loggins thumping through the theatre-speakers again..."Top Gun" is rumored to be making a comeback to the local movie theater.

A source says that "A re-release of Top Gun is on the boil, with additional-previously unseen footage. It's nearing it's 20th anniversary and will be placed at all the major multiplexes for a worldwide release".

--Get excited, Iceman.

Cheaters?

Johnny Knoxville, the married former "Jackass" ringleader is still battling those rampant rumors that he's having a torrid fling with "Dukes of Hazzard" co-star Jessica Simpson.

The buzz has been swirling for months that Simpson and Knoxville were having an on-set affair, but both stars have denied any talk of a tryst. But at least one eyewitness at "Scrubs" star Zach Braff's birthday party at 40 Deuce in Los Angeles last Saturday night told Page Six she saw Knoxville and Simpson stroking one another's hands when the lights went down. "It was awesome," she said.

Knoxville's rep, Melissa Kates, told us: "Jessica and Johnny are good friends as a result of working together last year. Any stories suggesting otherwise are ridiculous."

Uhhh...

Keanu Reeves and Diane Keaton are rumored to be Hollywood's newest odd couple.

Reeves, 40, and Keaton, 59, played lovers in 2003 film Something's Gotta Give and have become increasingly close in real life.

She has become a frequent visitor to his Los Angeles home recently, they speak on the phone a lot and Diane attended the ceremony when Keanu received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

She's Down

Nicole, flanked by rappers, gets in touch with her hip hop side:

Like, For Sure

Paris Hilton is elated pal Kimberly Stewart is in talks to join her in her hit reality show The Simple Life - because she didn't originally want Nicole Richie as her co-star.

The hotel heiress, who has confirmed reports that she and Richie are no longer friends, is hoping for Stewart to join her on the road for the fourth series of the show - and she claims the daughter of Rod Stewart was her original first choice.

Hilton says, "When the first installment happened, I wanted Kim. And she was like, 'I'm not doing a reality show.' Nicole was like, 'I'll do it.' I was like, 'Alright.'

"So now it's going to be new and fun, and we're really excited."

Interference From Dad?

Beyonce's dad is known not to like her boyfriend Jay-Z - so rumor has it that he trying to hook her up with another rapper.

Matthew Knowles - manager of Destiny's Child - was seen deep in conversation with Pimp My Ride host Xzibit on a recent visit to the UK.

A spy at West End club Embassy reveals: "They spent the entire evening huddled together in the whole VIP area."

Watch Out, Greg!

Lance has harsh words for Greg LeMond:

The six-time winner of the Tour de France was asked by Playboy if he'll get fat when he retires. "I'll be a fitness junkie forever, not out of shape like some guys. But I'm not naming names . . . achoo-lemond!"

Playboy asked Armstrong about Greg LeMond, "your boyhood hero" who won the prestigious bicycle race three times. "He suspects you're a doper. What's your relationship with LeMond?" "None," Lance replied. "What he did in 1989 and 1990 was phenomenal. But Greg's not even worth talking about today. And I don't need to hear from him — he'd only shove his foot farther down his throat."

J.Lo's Shoe Line

Click here to check out J.Lo's retail shoe collection.

Some of them are pretty cute.

Ashton's History With the Ladies

Ashton Kutcher struggled to win over the hearts of school girls when he was a child - because he was always shocking them with his criminal antics.

Ashton admits he was often a mouth-watering prospect for girls on first meeting them, but regularly scared them away when he was caught misbehaving. And Kutcher also blames his troublesome reputation for putting girls off introducing him to their mothers.

He says, "I didn't really have very many girlfriends when I was growing up. I was the guy that parents would want the girl to take home but then the girl didn't really want to take home."

"I don't know. I think they didn't like me after we were dating for a while. I did pretty well on first impressions but then I would break into the high school, get thrown in jail or something. Then it was like, 'ok, get him out of here.'"

She'd Marry Again

Angelina Open To Idea of Marriage Again:

Twenty-nine-year-old Angelina Jolie, who has already been married twice, told Grazia magazine that she is open to the idea of settling down again.

"I'm an incurable romantic and I would love to have a wonderful marriage that will last a very long time," she revealed.

But Angelina was quick to point out that the main man in her life will remain adopted son Maddox - and any potential hubby would have to have the same attitude. "I'm really looking for a man who would be the best father in the world," she added.

More Babies!

Jerry Seinfeld and his wife Jessica are having a baby!

This will be the third child for the couple, who wed on Christmas day in 1999. The impeccably clean New Yorker and former star of the hit "Seinfeld" series already has a daughter, Sascha, and son, Julian, with Jessica.

Jerry turns 48 on April 29th.

I'm Not on Drugs

Abdul says: I'm not on drugs!

American Idol judge Paula Abdul, responding to questions about her erratic behavior on the hit Fox talent show, says she is suffering from a rare neurological disorder and does not have a drug problem.

"Drugs? I'm not addicted to pills of any kind," Abdul says in the new issue of People magazine. Abdul, 42, says she has been battling chronic pain that began after a cheerleading accident at age 17 left her with an injured disc in her neck.

The pain got worse after "a couple of car accidents" in the 1980s and a plane crash in 1992, which led to seizures, bulimia and depression, she says. In search of relief, Abdul had 12 operations and used medications she says left her so "loopy" that she chose to live with the pain.

In November, Abdul says, she was diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (aka Complex Regional Pain syndrome), a chronic neurological disorder that causes severe, debilitating pain. It affects 500,000 to 1 million Americans and is more prevalent in women, according to the Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association. The disease is treatable and usually involves physical and sometimes psychological therapy, says Norman Harden, director of the Center for Pain Studies at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. "People can do well and get on with their lives."

Abdul says she kept her condition secret from her fellow Idol judges but decided to go public after reading message boards about her behavior on and off the set. "Between getting up and dancing at the drop of a hat, and her refusal to let Simon (Cowell) finish a sentence ... she's become both distracting and annoying," says Idol fan Steve Walker of Memphis.

Desperate for Brad

Is Eva "desperate" for Brad?

Pregnancy Problems?

Brit's Pregnancy Problems?

Fears for Britney Spears' health are growing as the pregnant singer is reported to have been put under 24-hour medical watch.

The star, who is expecting her first baby with husband Kevin Federline later this year, has already had one scare - she discovered bleeding and was admitted to hospital last week. The bleeding led doctors to warn Britney and her family that if it happened again the baby could be in serious danger, leaving Britney with a 50% chance of miscarriage.

The warning was enough for Britney's mother Lynne, who has reportedly organized round-the-clock care for Britney, hiring a team of nurses to make sure that both mother and baby remain in optimum health in the coming months. Britney has made no secret of her longing to be a mom since her marriage and a source revealed the singer's distress at her two-day hospital stint.

"Britney was in tears," the source said. "Though she wasn't in any pain, the prospect of losing the child she was desperate for really got to her."

Penn's Puffing

Rule-breaking star Sean Penn carried his act a little too far for some fellow guests at the Tribeca Film Festival's "Interpreter" screening Tuesday night.

Penn — holding court at the bash at the Museum of Modern Art, which recently underwent a $425 million expansion — brazenly lit up a cigarette and puffed away. "It was absolutely disgusting," one peeved partygoer told us. "He smoked the entire thing right in the middle of the bright, shiny new gem of the New York museum system."

But Penn's tough-guy style still works — no one told him to put it out.

Scarlett and Josh

Scarlett Johansson is reportedly romancing Josh Hartnett after falling for him on the set of her latest movie.

The actress - who was said to have ended her relationship with Hollywood heartthrob Jared Leto earlier this month - has been on a string of romantic dates with her 'The Black Dahlia' co-star while shooting in Bulgaria, sources have claimed.

An insider said: "There was a real spark between Scarlett and Josh from the minute they met. Romance is definitely in the air. They have been on several dinner dates together."

New Blog Showcase

A good friend of mine from undergrad who now lives in Chicago, Margo, has started her own blog.

In her words, it's "the restaurant review/food blog that I've been
wanting to have."

She's one of the most creative and interesting people I know. So, I demand that you all check out Les Deux Margots today!

Goonies Celebrates Anniversary

Happy 20th Anniversary to The Goonies!

For die hard fans, click here.

I'm Healthy, I Promise

Liz Hurley is fuming over reports that she keeps her shape by eating only one meal a day.

The 39-year-old said: "It's rubbish, I have a gallstone and low blood sugar so if I had one meal a day I'd be in hospital. "I can't go for more than four hours without eating something or I feel physically sick."

The model - who recently launched her own range of beachwear - claims it's her active lifestyle and not being glued to a screen that keeps her slim. "I don't have a television set and I do a lot of walking, a lot of gardening, I take the dogs out, I run around fields with my son the whole time and carry him for miles. "My house has five flights of stairs, which I spend my life running up and down, and I don't sit still very much."

Mariah's New Man?

Brett Ratner and Mariah Carey have got tongues wagging with a touchy-feely show of affection.

He could barely keep his hands off the songstress at the US premiere of Nicole Kidman's new movie The Interpreter. Director Brett - who has worked on Mariah's music videos in the past - tentatively put his hand on her stomach as they posed for pics outside New York's Ziegfeld Theatre.

He's a single guy again after recently splitting with tennis ace Serena Williams - and Mariah is also apparently unattached.

They were among a star-studded audience who turned out for the fourth annual Tribeca Film Festival, which opened with the special showing of The Interpreter, also starring Sean Penn.

Avril's Animation

Avril Lavigne is among a pack of stars lending their voices to the upcoming DreamWorks animated movie "Over the Hedge," according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The film follows a mischievous raccoon and his best friend, a turtle, who find their woodland home being encroached by suburbia. The cast also includes Bruce Willis, Garry Shandling, Nick Nolte, William Shatner, Catherine O'Hara and Eugene Levy.

Fonda Gets a Face Full of Spit

Jane Fonda was apparently showered with more than admiration at a promotional event Tuesday night. According to reports, police say a 54-year-old man was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct after he spit in the face of the Oscar-winning actress.

The 67-year-old star of the upcoming flick 'Monster-In-Law' and author of a new bestselling memoir, My Life So Far, was signing books at the Kansas City event ... when the man allegedly passed her a copy and then spit tobacco juice at her. Fonda has reportedly declined to press charges against him.

The man who spat tobacco juice in Jane Fonda's face on Wednesday claims he's a Vietnam veteran who attacked the actress because she's a "traitor". Michael Smith, 54, waited in line for about 90 minutes before spitting a "large amount" of tobacco juice into Fonda's face, according to Kansas City, Missouri, police. Smith was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct after the attack, which he told police was in response to her controversial 1972 trip to Hanoi.

Smith says Fonda is a "traitor" who has been spitting in the faces of war veterans for years. He adds, "There are a lot of veterans who would love to do what I did."

Pregnant!

Actor Benjamin Bratt and his wife Talisa Soto are expecting their second child.

The couple, who have been married for three years, already have a 2 1/2 -year-old daughter, Sophia. Their second child is due in the fall.

Cast as lovers in 2001's Pinero, Bratt, 41 and Soto, 38, began their romance when, both unattached, they met up for the movie's premiere at the Montreal World Film Festival.

Pam Goes Off on J. Lo

Jennifer Lopez has been plagued by PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) protests for awhile, but now the fur-lovin' pop diva is being attacked and labeled an "idiot" by another celebrity.

Pamela Anderson told Jane magazine that people who wear fur "like Jennifer Lopez...look fat and gross."

"People who wear fur smell like a wet dog and they look fat and gross. They look really immature and unenlightened," said Anderson, a notorious PETA supporter. "Every season the furriers put propaganda everywhere that fur is taking off again and they give free coats to idiots like Jennifer Lopez and Puff Daddy. It makes me nauseous."

--Damn!

Don't Drive With That Coke!

Like there weren't enough Hoosier cities with dumb laws on the books. Here's a new one:

There's a problem with the open-container law in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Officials have discovered that the ordinance bans all open containers in vehicles -- not just containers of alcohol.

That means an open can of soda, or even an open bag of chips in the car, is technically against the law, and could be subject to a 50-dollar fine.

City attorneys have brought the matter to the attention of the city council, which voted yesterday to fix the law. The new version could get final approval next week.

Affleck and Garner Engaged?

Looks like maybe all the denials were just a cover:

Ben Affleck proposed to his girlfriend of over a year, Jennifer Garner, after her 33rd birthday party Saturday at her Brentwood home, according to Star magazine.

Affleck bought Garner a $500,000, 4.5-carat Harry Winston engagement ring — as compared to the 6.1-carat pink diamond ring from Winston which Affleck got for his former fiancée Jennifer Lopez. Affleck's rep had no comment.

--Wow. You know you're in another league when you downgrade to a 4.5 carat ring.

Hmmm...

Just what's going on between Salma Hayek and Jamie Foxx?

A spy reported Salma looked cozy with the Oscar-winning actor at Prime 112 in Miami Beach. And Life & Style Weekly reports they were acting very couple-y at Amika Loft Lounge & Discotheque last Sunday. "He opened the door for her and picked up flowers from a street vendor," a witness told the magazine.

Foxx's rep declined to comment about his client's personal life, but Hayek's rep, Cari Ross, said the two have known each other for years. "She's writing a script for a movie she'd like him to be in," Ross said.

Jessica is Daisy

Singer-turned-actress Jessica Simpson believes she's delivered a convincing performance in forthcoming movie The Dukes Of Hazzard - because she's playing herself.

The singer was relieved her role as Daisy in the movie, based on the 1970s TV show, is close to her own personality and hopes this will make her character more believable. Simpson, known to millions from the hit reality show Newlyweds: Nick And Jessica, says, "It was important for me to not go so far away from my persona and what people already knew me as."

New Digs for Buffett

Jimmy Buffett has had changes in attitude as well as changes in altitude since he bought a sky-high Manhattan apartment.

The songwriter has shelled out $11.7 million for a 73rd-floor apartment in the Time Warner Center's south tower. The four-bedroom condo, with views of Central Park and both rivers, includes 51/2 bathrooms, a maid's room, library, large gourmet kitchen and former popstar neighbor Ricky Martin a few floors below. Buffett, whose main home is in Palm Beach, also has a summer estate in the Hamptons.

Blonde Ambition

Singer and upcoming Herbie: Fully Loaded star Lindsay Lohan has broken her promise to maintain her famous red hair forever - by dying it platinum blonde.

The Mean Girls actress pledged never to alter her locks in an interview with People magazine last year, but has stunned fans by dramatically changing color. However, Lohan's spokeswoman insists the teen singer/actress had no choice in the matter. She tells website Pagesix.Com, "She only dyed it temporarily for a movie role. It's easier to do the real thing than wear a wig."

Ashton Says...

Ashton Kutcher said he'll be back in boxers if his new movie is a box-office hit. Kutcher made a bet to return to modeling if "A Lot Like Love," out this Friday, is the weekend's top-grossing film, he told the television show "Access Hollywood."

"If we are the No. 1 movie in America, I will do a Calvin Klein underwear campaign," said Kutcher, who appeared on the catwalk before for the designer. "It's actually a bet that I made with my producing partner."

Kutcher has a nude scene in the romantic comedy, which also stars Amanda Peet, and told "Access Hollywood" it was a breeze.

"I like being nude. So for me, it wasn't incredibly tough," he said.

Growing Pains Dad to Get Hitched

One of TV's all-time favorite dads is about to tie the knot again. Alan Thicke, a.k.a. Dr. Seaver on the long-running hit series "Growing Pains," will wed his Bolivian supermodel girlfriend, Tanya Callau, next month in Mexico, according to a spokesperson for the actor.

It will be the third marriage for Thicke, who has three sons. "I'll be on my third honeymoon," he jokes, "so I'm more of an authority than I care to be." Aside from his sitcom role popularity, Thicke is also known in the entertainment industry as a successful producer and script writer, as well as for composing nearly 50 TV show theme songs, which include "The Facts of Life" and "Wheel of Fortune"!

--I LOVED "Growing Pains."

Won't Be Buying One of These

Jay-Z has partnered with watchmaker Audemars Piguet to create a series of limited-edition timepieces that will retail for $23,500 to $69,500.

--I'm sure they'll have plenty of bling. For that price, they sure as heck should!

He Must Be Joking

Troubled R&B star Bobby Brown has reportedly demanded $1 million to sit down with tabloid The National Enquirer for an interview.

The publication's senior reporter Patricia Shipp recently phoned the My Prerogative singer at his hotel in Antigua to ask if he'd chat on the record about a story in The National Enquirer's April 25 issue concerning alleged flings. The publication reported that Brown enjoyed sexual escapades in Antigua with other women, while wife Whitney Houston is in a rehabilitation clinic at the island's Crossroads Center.

Shipp tells website Eurweb, "He told me that he would talk to me if I paid him $1 million." Brown reportedly stressed to Shipp that the interview had to take place face-to- face. He also wanted cash. She adds, "He said absolutely no checks... What could you possibly say that is worth $1 million?"

--I think he drastically overestimates how interesting he is.

Nip Tuck

As reported in the Daily Mail, Michael Douglas arrived in Barbados with wife Catherine Zeta-Jones two weeks ago showing all the signs of recent cosmetic surgery. Scars on both sides of his face were bleeding.

On the beach a few days later, his slimmer physique suggested possible liposuction and a tummy tuck. Close examination of his face now reveals a dramatic reduction in the number of wrinkles around his eyes and the bags under them. His forehead lines are gone and his eyebrows also appear to have been lifted.

Behind his fuzzy greying beard - grown presumably to disguise the scars still to heal from the surgery - the tightened skin around his neck and chin has also given him back the chiseljawed looks he had in his early 40s, when he starred as Gordon Gekko in the film Wall Street.

This is said not to be Douglas's first encounter with the cosmetic surgeon's art. He 'freshened up' his features with a face and eye lift before marrying Zeta-Jones, who is 25 years his junior. She in turn reportedly had an eye lift at 31 because she was concerned about fine wrinkles.

Sting Teaches

British singer Sting went back to the classroom this week, assuming the role of a musical mentor for a group of college students.

The one-time school teacher surprised students in a music composition class at the University of Illinois at Chicago, barging in with MTV cameras in tow to speak and jam with them on Monday. The students, who had been told that their regular class was going to be filmed for a promotional video for the university, erupted in cheers as Sting and his band entered through a side door.

He started by playing "Message In A Bottle," a hit with the Police, the rock trio that he led to fame during the 1970s and '80s. Sting played an electric bass, accompanied by two acoustic guitars and a shaker.

Celebs and the Cops

Celebs and the Cops:

--A New York judge issued an arrest warrant on Monday for "American Pie" movie actress Natasha Lyonne, who failed to appear for a court hearing on charges stemming from a rampage during which she was heard threatening to molest a neighbor's dog.

Lyonne, 26, is charged with criminal mischief, harassment and trespass after an unexplained fit of rage last December when authorities said she banged on the door of her neighbor, stormed into the apartment and ripped a mirror from the wall.

--Comedian Chris Tucker was briefly jailed Sunday morning after Georgia cops pulled over his speeding 2005 Bentley when he did not immediately stop for them. Tucker, 33, spent about 30 minutes in the Warren County lockup before posting cash bond and being released.

According to cops, the "Rush Hour" star, an Atlanta native, was doing 109 mph on Interstate 20 when pulled over by state troopers. He was arrested for reckless driving and fleeing to elude after he did not pull over right away.

Absent-Minded Winner

Record-setting "Jeopardy" champ Ken Jennings, who spoke yesterday to students at Siena College in a suburb of Albany, New York, confessed that he was so absent-minded after passing the one million-dollar winnings mark on the game show, he forgot where he parked his car. He says the layout of the garage confused him.

The software engineer from Utah went on to more than double his winnings, ending with more two and a half million dollars. Jennings has taken a hiatus from his job to tour the country speaking at college campuses, writing a book and working on several board games.

More Pregnancy Rumors

Heath Ledger has been telling friends that his girlfriend, Michelle Williams, is pregnant with their child.

Williams has been snapped lately by photographers looking rounder than normal. The two met while filming Ang Lee's "Brokeback Mountain" soon after Ledger split with his ex, Naomi Watts, who is said to be bitter towards Ledger and his new relationship.

Andy Lets It All Hang Out

Comedian Andy Dick was booted from a comedy club after patrons complained that the 39-year-old exposed himself onstage.

Dick told the Edmonton Journal he was drinking the whole time he was in Edmonton but he didn't think he was drunk on stage. Several people who'd seen his April 1 show said he seemed drunk, the newspaper reported.

Dick says he did expose himself during a bit about a Rolex watch, but says the club management knew it was part of his act.

--I'm certainly glad I wasn't there to suffer through seeing Andy's, um, yeah.

Clay Chats With Dr. Phil

Despite having a devoted following of "Claymates," "American Idol" runner-up Clay Aiken has run into his fair share of critics and haters. But building up a thick skin is something Aiken did long before fame, and on Tuesday's "Dr. Phil" he'll reveal his experiences with bullying and share his advice with young people.

Aiken talked to the TV-show host about how being bullied isn't the end of the world. "It was a really tough time," he confessed to Dr. Phil. "Middle school's really tough — I think everybody has trouble with middle school. It's about finding out who you are and being happy with who you are and being comfortable with who you are, because everybody in middle school is confused."

In his book "Learning to Sing," Aiken revealed his experience with being picked on and the loneliness and isolation of not belonging while he was growing up in Raleigh, North Carolina. He described what it was like getting wedgies and being "dodge-ball bait."

"I was dubbed a loser throughout most of my childhood," he wrote. "As a kid, I was an insult magnet — a nerd who loved his grandparents, who wore the wrong clothes, who liked the wrong things, who had goofy hair and glasses, who didn't smoke or drink."

Coupled with the anguish of an abusive, alcoholic father, his childhood was further troubled by such ill treatment outside his home. "I went to grade school and discovered a whole new form of cruelty: the heartlessness of exclusion," he wrote.

They're Not Hitched

Hollywood couple Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck have laughed off rumors they married over the weekend - insisting they were celebrating the her 33rd birthday with a lavish party.

The stunning actress erected a huge marquee in the garden of her Brentwood, Los Angeles home on Saturday, prompting speculation Garner would wed her Daredevil co-star.

Hordes of paparazzi camped outside Garner's home as Alias creator JJ Abrams and Affleck's actor brother Casey Affleck and fiancee Summer Phoenix arrived at the bash. One guest added to the rumors when he joked to the photographers as he was leaving, saying, "that was the best wedding ever."

A Day in the Park

A day in the park for Sarah Jessica Parker and son, James:

They're Hitched

"One Tree Hill" sweethearts Chad Michael Murray and Sophia Bush are officially man and wife.

The couple, who met on the set of their WB drama, wed in a seaside ceremony on Saturday in Santa Monica, CA, according to a spokesperson. The bride wore an ivory Vera Wang gown, while the groom tied the knot in a Ralph Lauren ensemble.

The newlywed duo has plenty to keep them busy during their first months of marriage. Sophia will appear in a new action/adventure flick, 'Supercross,' hitting theaters this summer, while Chad Michael co-stars alongside Paris Hilton in the upcoming re-make thriller 'House of Wax.'

Posh's Lonely Birthday

David Beckham missed wife Victoria's birthday again this year - but had an unusual way of making up for it.

On the occasion of her 31st birthday, he decided the best present was to fly her London hairdresser out to Madrid to give the new mum a posh up-do as a treat.

Posh had a family lunch with parents Tony and Jacqui and the kids. Afterwards she had her hair done while her parents took Brooklyn and Romeo to a local park.

David was 200 miles away playing a Real Madrid game against Valencia. "David was hoping to take her out if he could get back to Madrid early enough," a source told The Sun.

Reese's Run-In

'Legally Blonde' star Reese Witherspoon recently had a scuffle with paparazzi that ended with a call to police, who are now investigating possible charges of false imprisonment.

A spokesperson for the L.A.P.D. told ET that Witherspoon was allegedly obstructed by members of the paparazzi while trying to get into her vehicle outside a Los Angeles gym last week. She was then apparently blocked from pulling away, according to the spokesperson, and, when she did finally manage to leave, was followed to her home by at least 5 vehicles and prevented from getting through the gate until security assisted her.

Sad News

Sad news:

Tom Snyder, a late-night talk show fixture for years, has been diagnosed with leukemia.

Snyder announced on his Web site Friday that doctors have told him that he has chronic lymphocytic leukemia. "When I was a kid leukemia was a death sentence. Now, my doctors say it's treatable! With pills or chemotherapy or a combination of both," he said.

Snyder, 68, says he had been low on stamina, felt bloated and gained about 50 pounds Ñ all symptoms that led him to seek tests. Coincidentally, he says his younger brother also has been diagnosed with the same disease.

Downey Jr.'s Album Released

Hollywood actor Robert Downey Jr. is launching a pop career.

The 'Chaplin' star has recorded an album - titled 'The Futurist' - released next week.

He says his inspiration to make the album was his love for girlfriend Susan Levine, who he is due to wed this summer. He said: "She's a great gal and I'm not saying I buy too much into the whole soulmate or everyone-has-their-ultimate-partner thing, but it certainly seems like it's panning out that way."

Remember Taylor Dayne?

Taylor Dayne, the big-haired '80s pop princess, is looking for a new groove. To help find it, she submitted to a "Remaking" courtesy of cable music channel VH1.

"To me, it was about finding new opportunities," Dayne said. "I know my voice touches people. It has for years. I can't give that up." The transformation team provided by the show includes stylists, choreographers, personal trainers and the musical guidance of producer Rodney Jerkins, who has manufactured hits for Brandy and Monica.

"Remaking: Taylor Dayne" premieres Thursday at 10 p.m.

--I remember rocking out to "Tell it to My Heart."

Babies Linked to Memory Loss?

Babies linked to memory loss?

Oscar-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow says she's lost her memory since having a baby, reports Ananova.com.

The 32-year-old star says she can no longer remember her lines since giving birth to Apple last May. "I used to be excellent and then I had a baby and I can't remember anything," she said. "I used to have a fantastic memory and now I can't remember what day it is."

Strapped for Cash

Vacationing in Florida with her hubby, Kevin Federline, Britney Spears had a craving for ice cream. So off they went to a Baskin-Robbins.

That's where they discovered they didn't have enough money.

The paparazzi were waiting outside when Federline stuck his head out the door to ask, "You guys got 10 bucks I can borrow? I promise I'll pay you back."

Mavrix photographer Dennis Clark was the first to pony up a 10-spot. He also congratulated the couple on their baby news. They rewarded him by inviting him inside to snap the mommy-to-be keeping up her dairy intake.

Far-Off Birthday Bash

Actor Wilmer Valderrama proved he remains devoted to his exgirlfriend Mandy Moore, when he flew all the way to Japan to celebrate her 21st birthday with her.

The singer and actress, who welcomed her big day on April 10th, split up with the screen star more than three years ago, but he was still included on her guest list for the Tokyo bash. Shannon Elizabeth, Pharrell Williams, Macaulay Culkin and his girlfriend Mila Kunis also jetted over for the celebration.

Moore was in Japan - as was Williams - to perform at the Coach Play For Peace benefit concert for Unicef on Apri 9th.

When Bad Clothes Happen

When bad clothes happen to good people: Jennifer Love Hewitt

Nobody Does It Better

According to Joni Mitchell, who also had affairs with Graham Nash and David Crosby back in the '70s, James Taylor was in a league of his own.

"She had quite a succession of men," Nancy Alspaugh, author of "Fearless Women, Mid-Life Portraits," told the Boston Herald. "But she said James Taylor was the best. Just the best."

Mitchell — one of 49 women profiled by Alspaugh, ex-wife of "Today" host Matt Lauer — is chaste at the age of 62. "She's still beautiful," Alspaugh said. "But she wrote 'Both Sides Now' when she was in her 20s. She looked at love from both sides even back then and she says she's done with that."

Diddy Day

It seems Las Vegas loves rap mogul Sean "P. Diddy" Combs so much ... that they have actually declared April 15th Diddy Day in the famous city!

On Friday, the mayor and the city council were expected to recognize the star's achievements, which have included everything from chart-topping albums to reality television and even a voter registration campaign and fashion-forward clothing line. However, Combs was unable to be there to receive the honor.

"Due to an unfortunate miscommunication, I will not be able to make the anticipated trip to Las Vegas," he said in a statement, adding, "I am flattered the mayor saw fit to honor me with a day and hope to join him soon."

Meanwhile, the multi-talented celebrity has made a big-time deal with Warner Music Group. Under the new pact, announced Thursday, Diddy will reportedly receive as much as $30 million for a three-year deal that gives Warner a 50% allocation in the rapper's Bad Boy Records. Combs is expected to keep his position as chief executive of the label.

WHY?

Someone explain this to me:

Ryan Seacrest is about to become a star ... on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, that is.

The renowned host of "American Idol" and Los Angeles radio personality is scheduled to receive the honor next Wednesday, April 20. Aside from the TV show and the on-air tiffs with "Idol" judge Simon Cowell that have made him a household name, listeners around the country also know Seacrest's voice from the nationally syndicated "American Top 40" radio show.

--WHY? He's totally worthless.

Wedding Bells?

Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher are said to be planning a secret wedding in Las Vegas.

The pair have approached celeb jeweler Neil Lane to design matching rings, according to friends. They say: "Demi and Ashton went to him for one reason - their wedding is being planned." Sources say the ceremony will be at the Bellagio hotel and casino.

Harvard Says "Nizzo"

Snoop Dogg won’t be going to Harvard.

Nothing to do with SATs. Instead, the university’s Undergraduate Council has reversed plans to have the rap star visit for a show next month. Some Harvard students had objected to the appearance, citing lyrics on Snoop Dogg’s latest album about slapping women to keep them under control.

But a short statement by the council makes no mention of that. It attributes the dis-invitation to financial considerations and unavoidable obstacles.

Biggy's Ashes With His Mom Now

R+B star Faith Evans has given her late husband Notorious BIG's ashes back to his mother, so his spirit can rest.

Notorious BIG - real name Christopher Wallace - was gunned down in a drive-by shooting eight years ago after getting caught in a violent feud between members of P. Diddy's Bad Boy record label and music rivals Death Row Records.

Until recently, the singer - often regarded as the most famous widow in R+B - kept his ashes with her in an urn, but she's finally handed them back to his mother, Voletta Wallace. Evans explains, "After a while, something didn't feel right about having a part of him with us. "I didn't feel his spirit would be want to be moving around with us to all those places."

Porn Lawsuit

"How to Make Love Like a Porn Star" author Jenna Jameson has filed a federal lawsuit to bar her publisher from getting a cut of a proposed reality show featuring the adult film actress.

Jameson's lawsuit asks a judge to rule that an April 2004 development agreement signed with Regan Media doesn't apply to a deal Jameson negotiated herself with A&E for a show based on her daily life.

In the lawsuit, Jameson, who lives in the Phoenix area, claims the A&E deal was negotiated before the Regan Media agreement. Regan Media owner Judith Regan countersued, saying the 2004 agreement with Jameson gives Regan Media the exclusive rights to negotiate with television networks for a reality show. The countersuit says Jameson, whose real name is Jenna Massoli, violated the agreement by negotiating a contract with A&E without Regan Media.

DMX May Have to Ride a BMX

Rapper DMX was arrested after a three-car crash involving a police cruiser on a major New York City expressway, police said on Saturday.

Police said a car driven by DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, hit another car, which then slammed into the cruiser late Friday on the Major Deegan Expressway in the Bronx. Two police officers were treated for minor injuries.

The 34-year-old hip-hop star was charged with driving with a suspended license and released, police said.

Raisin' a Baby in Vegas

Kevin Federline has always wanted to live in Las Vegas, and his dream is coming true. He and pregnant wife Britney Spears have "reserved" a $2.5 million bungalow in the residential expansion at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

The couple apparently has sentimental reasons for buying there. Not only will Wilmer Valderrama, Danny Masterson, Claudia Schiffer and Billy Idol be their neighbors, but their baby was supposedly "conceived in room 248 at the hotel."

--Wow. Maybe they can all babysit.

A Question Asked

When U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia spoke Tuesday night at NYU's Vanderbilt Hall, "The room was packed with some 300 students and there were many protesters outside because of Scalia's vitriolic dissent last year in the case that overturned the Texas law against gay sex," our source reports.

"One gay student asked whether government had any business enacting and enforcing laws against consensual sodomy. Following Scalia's answer, the student asked a follow-up: 'Do you sodomize your wife?' The audience was shocked, especially since Mrs. Scalia [Maureen] was in attendance. The justice replied that the question was unworthy of an answer.

Is Lohan Clueless?

Teen starlet Lindsay Lohan is being courted (no, not by Bruce Willis this time) to appear in a stage version of hit movie Clueless.

The actress recently claimed she plans to take a break after a series of high profile family crises - but Broadway producer Barry Weissler is desperate to lure her onto the stage.

Weissler - who is planning the show with his wife Fran and Clueless director Amy Heckerling - told Pagesix.com he "would die" to have her in the role made famous by Alicia Silverstone.

Tattoo Removal

Former Ally McBeal star Portia De Rossi is shedding a tattoo with her former partner's initials, after embarking on a romance with comedienne Ellen DeGeneres.

The tattoo, which is on De Rossi's ring finger, was meant to show her commitment to her now ex-girlfriend, singer-songwriter Francesca Gregorini. De Rossi, 32, and Gregorini, who is the stepdaughter of former Beatle Ringo Starr, dated for three years, until they spilt late last year. De Rossi recently told Details magazine of her plans to have the tattoo removed, "I'm not saying it's anything I regret doing, because I don't, but it just doesn't make any sense now."

In The Spotlight

After trying to keep her relationship out of the papers, Cynthia Nixon has finally started being seen in public with her girlfriend, Christine.

Don't Quit Your Day Job

Remember that ex-98 Degrees singer, Justin Jeffre, who is running for the mayor of Cincinnati?

Here's his campaign website.

Some of my favorite quotes:

"We can`t fear change, but we should fear not changing."

"Cincinnati has a progressive political and cultural history that puts other cities to shame."

"We have an Incredibly vibrant arts community." (Note: I did not add that random capital letter--he CLEARLY didn't have anyone proofread the website).

On Kissing Girls

Mischa on kissing girls:

The OC actress Mischa Barton finds kissing girls on screen easier than locking lips with the opposite sex.

The 19-year-old beauty, who stars as Marissa in the hit television series, finds it far more intense shooting an intimate scene with a boy.

She says, "There's always sexual tension on set with a new boy. "Girls are more laid back."

This Show's a Train Wreck

Andy Dick was such a jerk during a guest appearance on VH1's "The Surreal Life" that "producers and security had to wrestle him to the ground in order to throw him off the set," said an insider. "Andy was completely out of control."

The show's fifth season, which just wrapped, starred Jose Canseco, Sandi "Pepa" Denton, Bronson Pinchot, London model Caprice Bourret, and two other women who didn't get along at all — Janice Dickinson and Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth.

Dickinson referred to the former "Apprentice" as "Omagrossa." During a photo shoot with the whole cast, Omarosa became hysterical at the sight of Janice holding a prop knife, our spy said. Omarosa told Dickinson to "back the [bleep] up with that knife," causing Dickinson to taunt: "Who wants a haircut?" Omarosa then exploded in a tirade of expletives, scaring the rest of the cast so much that they all left the shoot.

Can She Sing?

Victoria Gotti has landed herself a role in an off-Broadway musical.

--I'm sure the lead in the show will soon be sleeping with the fishes.

And in other Broadway musical news:

"The Wedding Singer," starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, has been transformed into a Broadway musical and booked for a New York opening - for April 2006.

She's Back

Julia Roberts is set to make her return to acting after the birth of her twins - and will be performing for free.

The Oscar-winning beauty, who gave birth to babies Phinnaeus and Hazel last November, will join Sir Paul McCartney and Robin Williams at a charity evening in New York's Avery Fisher Hall. The event will help raise money for Paul Newman's Hole in the Wall Camps, an organization for children with serious illnesses.

Although it has not been announced what Julia - who commands $20 million per movie - is doing, it is thought she will team up with Newman for one of the dramatic performances.

ODB's on Ice

Rapper Ol' Dirty Bastard's philandering ways may soon be laid bare — his widow revealed she's kept a sample of his DNA to force kids claiming "He's my daddy" to prove it.

Icelene Jones, fighting a battle over the dead hip-hop star's estate, yesterday dropped her previous denials that her estranged hubby fathered up to 10 children other than the couple's three kids. "I was real hurt with him doing the things that he's done," admitted Jones, 35, speaking at a press conference with her lawyer.

"But I have nothing against the other children. I've met some of them. If they are, they are. If they're not, they're not. They're beautiful children — the ones that I've seen. I preserved DNA for this purpose."

Various biographers say ODB fathered 12 or 13 children with several women.

--Mmmkay.

Friends In Low Places

Paris Hilton needs a new friend. Page Six first reported that she and Nicole Richie were on the rocks, and now, "The Insider" is reporting that Fox is searching for a replacement for Richie on "The Simple Life."

Nicole will stay with Fox, maybe working on a "Newlyweds"-like reality show with her fiancé DJ AM, a.k.a Adam Goldstein, as cameras follow the planning of their upcoming wedding.

As for Hilton's possible new co-star? Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's names pop up as dream partners for the rowdy Hilton.

Cruz Digs Kissing Charlize

Newly enamored "Sahara" co-stars Matthew McConaughey and Penelope Cruz are unwinding from the sweaty Moroccan heat in Rome.

Speaking to reporters at the debut of the adventure film, McConaughey was taken aback when reporters asked his Latin co-star to name her favorite on-screen kisser. She hesitated a moment before naming her South African Oscar-winning "Head In The Clouds" co-star, Charlize Theron, Hellomagazine.com reported Tuesday.

"Can I say Charlize Theron?," she said. "Yes, Charlize, Charlize, Charlize!"

The 30-year-old former girlfriend of Tom Cruise admitted shooting her latest project included some boredom-induced anxiety that led her one night to demand the crew play charades. "I had to insist for hours before they agreed to play," she said. "I was forced to relax."

Brit's Odds

Britney to give her baby a royal name?

Bookies have started taking bets on what Britney Spears will call her baby. Bookies seem to think that Britney will possibly go for a name with a royal connection due to a reported infatuation with male members of the British Royal Family.

William and Harry are the joint 20/1 favorites should their child be a boy and 20/1 on Zara or Grace should the baby be a girl. The outsiders include Justin at 150/1 and Trailer at 250/1.

Others suggest names include Elizabeth at 3/1 and Victoria at 100/1. Bookies also feel that parenthood will increase the pressure on her marriage to Kevin and have shortened the odds of the couple getting a divorce in 2005 from 6/1 to 4/1.

That's Just Mean

Model and actress Elizabeth Hurley is hurt by British press taunts over her acting ability and her young son Damian's appearance.

Journalists have slammed Hurley's acting skills, while Financial Times writer James Sherwood criticized her baby.

In an interview with American newspaper The New York Times, Hurley admits she is baffled why she receives such bad press, because she has never done anything wrong to warrant the media's behavior. She says, "They even wrote that my baby was ugly.

Graham's a Garnier Girl

Continuing their penchant for stylish blondes, Garnier announced yesterday that Heather Graham is their next celebrity spokesperson.

The golden-haired actress, perhaps best known in fashion circles for telling off Sarah Jessica Parker on Sex and the City, will appear in print and TV campaigns. She’ll represent Garnier’s new line, called 100% Color.

Her TV ads will be followed later this year with two movies, Cake and Mary, and an ABC sitcom where she’ll star as an unlucky advice columnist.

--Um, does this mean SJP has been dumped AGAIN by a company?

No Shame

File this under "Not Surprising:"

Former US President Bill Clinton once hit on Brendan Fraser's wife Afton, according to the star himself.

Fraser was hosting a Christmas concert at The White House during Clinton's term as president when he realised Clinton was taking a lot of interest in his wife. He says, "My wife, who was wearing a red dress and has certain endowments, was supposed to sit next to him, but when the lights came up I saw she'd been moved four rows behind him - as if they didn't want a pretty blonde in a red dress sitting next to the president.

"I introduced her in the receiving line and he said, 'Hello, Afton.' The Secret Service was prodding people to move along, but I saw Clinton make this hand gesture, like, 'Back off for a second, guys.' "Then he started asking her how she liked the programme and questions about herself, and she's getting all flushed, turning red, while I'm just standing there. "So I pulled Afton along, saying, 'Let's go get something to eat.'

"(Later) I was like, 'So what's with your boyfriend?' Afton had never reacted that way to another man. Clinton is the man."

Samantha is Bacardi's New Face

Former Sex And The City star Kim Cattrall has signed a deal to be the face of Bacardi's new cocktail range Island Breeze.

The English-born actress, 48, will appear in both print and television advertisements for the Caribbean alcohol giant. Cattrall enthuses, "I have always enjoyed cocktails socially, but I have been conscious of both the calories and drinking in moderation. That is why I agreed to endorse Island Breeze. It is the first lite spirit. Now, I can have great tasting, lighter cocktails that are low in calories. Now that's sexy."

Island Breeze contains Bacardi rum, natural fruit flavors and sucralose - a natural-sugar substitute.

Unlikely Collaboration

Gavin DeGraw is trading his homegrown roots for sexy models, flashy cars, and Zach Braff.

The habitually low-key singer teamed with Braff for his "Chariot" video, which he called "completely blinged out. The only thing it's missing is the baby oil."

The unlikely pair forged a friendship after they kept running into each other at industry events. "My manager approached him initially [about directing it], and he was interested," DeGraw said. "He said he already liked my music."

DeGraw was drawn in by Braff's unique vision for the video, which was inspired by eBay's shape-shifting commercials. In "Chariot," the sets — divided into four rotating turntables — similarly transform, creating new worlds around the singer.

--I really like DeGraw's music, and I think Braff's work is fantastic.

We Don't Feel Sorry For You

House arrest is proving to be a breeze for Martha Stewart — she's hardly ever home.

Under the guise of "work," Stewart attended Monday's New York Women in Communication's Matrix Awards lunch at the Waldorf Astoria and was later seen at Sushi Yasuda for dinner. Yesterday, Stewart was back at the Waldorf for the American Society of Magazine Editors awards — one of which went to Martha Stewart Weddings.

Griffith to Head to TV

America knows Melanie Griffith and her hubby Antonio Banderas as one of the most blissfully wedded couples in Hollywood ... but soon Griffith will take on the role of a woman caught in a turbulent marriage.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, she has signed on to co-star in an upcoming comedy pilot for the WB network. The Oscar-nominated blonde ('Working Girl') will play the mother of a pair of completely opposite fraternal twin girls (Sara Gilberty and Molly Standon) in the still-untitled show.

--I could care less about seeing Melanie Griffith on TV. I'm more pumped for the return of Darlene. :)

Celebs and Law Enforcement

American Pie actor Chris Klein is facing drunk-driving charges after a February arrest in California, Court TV's The Smoking Gun reports.

Sheriff's deputies pulled over Klein, 26, on Feb. 5 while he was driving a 2003 BMW along a San Diego County highway. According to the criminal complaint, Klein's blood-alcohol level at the time was more than double the legal limit (0.08 percent).

--Poor guy. He must have had too much to drink at the after-prom party at Stiffler's mom's house. Bet Joey's glad she's not with him now.

Dorothy's Dress Auctioned

"Wizard of Oz" fanatics hoping to own the dress worn by Judy Garland in the iconic film might need to appeal to the "Great and Powerful Oz" for financial support.

The blue and white gingham dress worn by Garland when she played Dorothy Gale in 1939 is on display at Bonhams & Butterfields here, and is set to be auctioned April 26 in London. Bonhams said the dress could fetch from $50,000 to $70,000.

"This dress represents the quintessential magic of childhood in the most beloved film of the 20th century," said Jon Baddeley, group head of Bonhams collector's department. "It has become a cherished memory for millions of fans worldwide and was worn by one of the most talented and respected stars in Hollywood."

The dress was custom made for Garland, who was 17 in 1939. It has a 27-inch waist and Garland's name on an inside hem label.

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah

Ok, you all knew this would be the top post on MP&S, and you all also know that this is no surprise: Brit's got a bun in the oven.

Britney Spears has revealed what might be Hollywood's worst-kept secret: She's pregnant. In a posting on her Web site, Spears told fans that she and husband, Kevin Federline, were expecting their first child together. Her publicist, Sonia Muckle, confirmed the singer's pregnancy Tuesday but refused to provide additional details.

"The time has finally come to share our wonderful news that we are expecting our first child together," the singer said. "There are reports that I was in the hospital this weekend, and Kevin and I just want everyone to know that all is well. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers."

--I've had a request from one male reader who claims I only post pics of Brit looking fugly, to post one of her back in her prime. So, here you go...what used to be:

Do I Smell Bacon?

Kevin Bacon hates his name because people constantly mock him.

The Hollywood actor says he is sick of being ridiculed for being named after a cut of pork and wishes he could change it. He said: "Every time one of my films comes out, I have to read 'sizzling bacon' or 'he's sure bringing home the bacon'.

"People come up to me and ask if I made up my last name. Believe me, I would have never made it up." The handsome star says he can't escape the constant torment as his surname is used in the most ridiculous ways.

--That's funny.

What Really Happened

For months, Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt have kept tight-lipped about their break-up, fuelling media speculation over what caused the rift. But now, as divorce details are finalised, Jennifer has opened up about the real reasons behind the split.

The Friends star confessed that her fairy-tale marriage to Brad made her feel too insecure. The 36-year-old said: "Marriage brought up all the kinds of things I pushed to the back-burner - the fear, the mistrust, the doubts, and the insecurities."

"Brad is the kindest person I know and the sweetest goofball on the planet. He helps you with your chair in restaurants and opens the car door for you. "He's a gentleman and accepted me with all of my crap and dysfunction and insecurities and struggles."

But she says she always felt inferior to the heart-throb, and that her relationship with him went through "rough and nasty" patches. Despite rumors that she put her career above having a family with Brad, Jennifer told how she longs to have children, saying: "Babies are so magical that I want at least one of my own."

Brad recently said that his love was never enough for Jennifer. He was quoted as saying: "It was becoming a nightmare. "When something so good goes so bad, it's awful. Jennifer refused to recognise the problems and she had an inability to let go, always bringing up the good memories. I'm not the bad guy."

Trash Talkin' Turleen

Last week I informed you about the Lilly Pulitzer Barbie.

This week I bring you the Trash Talkin’ Turleen Doll from Trailer Trash Doll.

Trash Talkin’ Turleen, with a quick press of her bulging belly, will gladly tell you, “Look out, it’s a twister!” or “Pour me a double—I’m drinking for two!” Plus, she's decked out in a waxy leather jacket and bright yellow crop top. Perhaps best of all, Turleen is barefoot and pregnant, so unlike with Barbie, there aren’t any tiny little shoes to lose!

Price: $32.95

Available at www.trailertrashdoll.com

Phoenix in Rehab

Actor Joaquin Phoenix has checked himself into a rehabilitation facility to deal with alcohol abuse problems, his publicist said.

"He was uncomfortable with the way that he was living his life and found the courage to deal with his disease," publicist Susan Patricola said in a statement Tuesday. Phoenix, 30, voluntarily entered an undisclosed rehab facility two weeks ago and hoped that coming forward will encourage others with the same problem to get help as well, Patricola said.

He will portray legendary singer Johnny Cash in "Walk the Line" due out later this year.

--Glad he's taking steps to not turn out like his brother.

The Passion of the Pope?

Movie star Mel Gibson is reportedly planning to follow his controversial The Passion Of The Christ with a movie about the Pope John Paul II - who died this month aged 84.

The deeply religious actor/director is the member of a strict Catholic sect called the 'Holy Family'. According to Pagesix.Com, Gibson dispatched a film crew to the Vatican City on Friday to capture crowd scenes at the late pontiff's funeral for future use.

Gibson was recently reported to be planning another religious epic - about three children who claimed to have seen a vision of the Virgin Mary in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917.

Celebrity Charades

Oscar winner Hilary Swank and her husband, actor Chad Lowe, are such big fans of the game charades that the couple is producing a new game show which has Hollywood celebrities competing in miming matches for charity.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the AMC cable network has given the green light to six half-hour episodes of "Celebrity Charades." The show has already begun taping in New York and is scheduled to premiere on June 20. Some of the stars already attached to appear as contestants are Bebe Neuwirth, Hank Azaria and Rosie Perez.

--I LOVE charades! I can't wait to watch this.

Are You Kidding Me?

Paris Hilton has designed a range of jewelry for dogs.

The star, who has a pooch called Tinkerbell, has designed the chic canine collars because people admire her dog's style like they do her own. She said: "In addition to my own sense of style, I think a lot of people admire Tinkerbell's look as well, which is why I decided to include a pet collar as part of the new collection."

The necklace-like collar, features a simple chain and crystal pendant in the shape of a bone.

--Are you kidding me?

The Tunes of a Lifetime

Click here for Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

--Makes me want to update my music collection. Actually, it makes me realize how badly I need an iPod!

New Project for Hurley

Elizabeth Hurley has launched her own line of bikinis.

Hurley, who hits 40 next month, said: "I feel faint with excitement. This is the first time I have ever produced anything entirely by myself." Surrounded by four models, she added: "I was in the warehouse last night until 2am. "It's particularly exciting to see the fruits of my labour, hanging and pressed. "It's a very new venture for me. During last summer I had the idea of having the beachwear line."

Liz, who has been modelling her new bikinis in photoshoots in recent weeks, said the line had been made in Italy and the beading came from India. "My boyfriend is half Indian and he's been helping me supervise that part of it," said the mother of one, who has been dating tycoon Arun Nayer for two years.

New Neighbor on Wisteria Lane

There is going to be a new neighbor setting up camp on Wisteria Lane.

Variety reports that Alfre Woodard ("Radio," "Beauty Shop") has inked a deal to join the cast of ABC's hit show "Desperate Housewives" next season. Although details of her character have not been revealed, she will play a seemingly normal woman who moves into the cul-de-sac with her son. Woodard will first appear on the season finale, and will be added as a regular this fall.

It will mark her first appearance on the small screen since she starred as Dr. Roxanne Turner on "St. Elsewhere."

Snoop's Hopeful Collaboration

Rapper Snoop Dogg is desperate to work with chart toppers Franz Ferdinand.

The Scottish group took the music world by storm last year scooping most of the major industry awards, and now the hip-hop star has decided he needs them on his next album.

Snoop says: "I'm working on an album that I plan to do with a lot of European artists. I wanna do something with the people that sang Take Me Out."

--Um, Snoop--learn their names!

Laundry Time

Guess Jess doesn't have time to do the laundry. Or, pick it up, for that matter.

I See London, I See France

Hugh Grant is a regular at upscale sex toy and lingerie emporium Myla in West London.

"Each time he makes it clear he doesn't want anything lacy or colorful," says a source. "On his most recent visit, he specifically wanted white cotton vests and plain pants. "He didn't want g-strings either. They had to be Bridget Jones-style big pants, like mini-boxer shorts. Hugh also bought a vest with naughty sailor girls on the front and a vest with a butterfly.

"Whether he likes his girlfriend, Jemima Khan, to wear them or whether she asked him to get them for her, he didn't say. "But he seemed very satisfied with his purchases."

Hugh - whose character in the hit films, Daniel Cleaver, has a fascination for the diarist's big pants - turned up his nose at some of Myla's saucier products. These include £69 nipple tassels, a £129 g-string made with pearls and a best-selling £199 vibrator called The Bone.

Cobain Tribute

Eleven years after his death, Kurt Cobain's hometown has finally embraced the legacy of the late grunge icon. Last week, the title of one of Nirvana's signature hits, "Come as You Are," was added to the "Welcome to Aberdeen" sign on the anniversary of Cobain's April 5, 1994, suicide.

"I think it's a good idea, and it's about time," Kurt's grandfather, Leland Cobain, told Aberdeen, Washington's local newspaper, The Daily World. "I drive by there every day and look for it. I have been waiting for it to go up."

Man Dates

Yesterday we pondered if real men drank pink.

Now, male readers of MP&S, I'd like you to weigh in on the idea of the man date.

--Thanks for the tip, Ren. :)

"Glitter" Was a Joke

Superstar Mariah Carey can see a positive side to the critical-mauling and poor sales of her Glitter film and soundtrack album - it cheered up Americans following the September 11th attacks.

The semi-autobiographical film was released only a month after the singer's much-publicized breakdown and ten days after the terrorists attacks in New York and Washington DC. Carey tells the New York Post newspaper, "The problem was Glitter was about a diva moment. It was too close to my life. Another thing that people don't remember about Glitter is that it came out the week of 9/11. The movie became a pressure release for everyone dealing the intensity of the attacks. Glitter was the safe joke of the day."

--She's got one thing right: it sure was laughter-worthy.

Mickey is NOT a Fan

Former Hollywood hellraiser and professional boxer, Mickey Rourke, is angry over Paris Hilton's latest career move.

He says that she doesn't deserve to be called an actress and instead she's just one of many untalented people who are bringing down the credibility of real actors and actresses.

Explaining his disillusionment with Hollywood, the Nine And A Half Weeks star said: "It has to do with little tiny **** that gets under my skin. Business stuff. "It's like... the word 'actress'. You know. Cate Blanchett is an actress. Paris Hilton is not a ****ing actress. I mean, how can they use the same ****ing word?

"You see what gets under my ****ing skin? You know? It's **** like that. It would make me go off."

--I'm sorry, but is he calling himself an actor?

More Charles and Camilla News

Here's some more Charles and Camilla news:

--Britain's ITV television channel said Monday it was currently casting actors for a two-hour dramatization of the first meeting and early relationship between Britain's heir to the throne and Camilla Parker Bowles, then known by her maiden name Camilla Shand.

But the film will end at Charles's 1981 marriage to then Lady Diana Spencer, without going into lurid but little-known details about how he and Camilla, sometime in the late 1980s and while still married to others, rekindled their romance.

The film is to be entitled "Whatever Love Means" -- quoting Charles's response to the press when he was asked earlier this year whether he loved Camilla.

--A royal wedding dilemma: What to give newlyweds who don't want for much? Comedian Joan Rivers, one of about 800 guests at Prince Charles and Camilla's wedding reception on Saturday, joked that she wanted to bring a trendy grill with a French fry attachment. Then she thought about giving the blushing bride — now the Duchess of Cornwall — a lingerie shower.

"She thought that was hilarious, and she said 'Well, send the things,'" Rivers told The Associated Press on Sunday. "She's a very earthy, funny woman. You can swear in front of her."

In the end, Rivers abided by a request for guests to forgo gifts, but said she plans to put the lingerie in the mail for the new Duchess of Cornwall.

--Here's the scoop on Camilla's wedding outfits:

THE CIVIL CEREMONY

Hat: Designed by Philip Treacy, decorated with French lace and trimmed with feathers

Hair: Styled by Hugh Green of Hugh & Stephens in Sloane Square. Green appeared to give the bride a quick touch up with the hair dryer between the marriage ceremony and the blessing. Her highlights were done by Jo Hansford.

Make-up: Julie Biddlecombe, make-up artist, said she deliberately kept it light. "I went for the no makeup look, illuminating her skin and cheekbones," she said.

Brooch: The fleur-de-lys piece set with black pearl and diamond was originally bought for Camilla's great-grandmother Alice Keppel, the mistress of Prince Charles' great grandfather King Edward VII. The Prince of Wales paid £15,000 to buy it for his new bride.

Bag: An embossed calf leather clutch by East-West with a suede lining bearing the royal warrant.

Manicure: Angela Kourmourou turned up at Clarence House to perfect Camilla's hands for the occasion. Essie's Sugar Daddy and Marshmallow were the colours used for the tips.

Dress: An oyster silk coat and chiffon dress by Robinson Valentine. The coat featured herringbone stitch detail embroidered with silk thread and the dress had a hem of Swiss-made laquered discs.

Shoes: Pale beige suede shoes with a 1.5in heel. Designed by Linda Bennett of LK Bennett.

THE BLESSING

Head-dress: Designed by Philip Treacy, the piece was made up of feathers that had been individually coated in gold-leaf and tipped with Swarovski diamonds. Treacy also designed hats for Sophie Wessex, Laura Parker Bowles and Tara Palmer Tomkinson.

Flowers: A cluster of Lily of the Valley and other small blooms in grey, cream and gold, all bound with the same silk as her dress. The posy also contained a sprig of Cornish myrtle, which represents happy marriage, that was sent by a well-wisher.

Dress: Robinson Valentine created a porcelain blue silk dress and a coat of the same colour that had been hand-embroidered with five different gold threads. Inspired by a piece of jewellery belonging to the bride's mother, the embroidery gave a couture element to the outfit." Robinson Valentine believed the dress required a sense of occasion for St George's Chapel and so the aim was a flowing, elegant line, concentrating on proportion, fit and silhouette."

Shoes: Pale grey shot silk pumps by Linda Bennett. The pointed shoes were decorated with a gold design on the toe and had a 1.5 inch heel.

Delivery Room Ban

Friends of the actress Denise Richards say she plans to ban Charlie Sheen from the delivery room when the couple's second baby is born in June, the New York Post reports.

Pals say Richards claims she has "too much anger in her heart" to let Sheen hover paternally by her laboring bedside.

School of Rock

What better way to learn about rock 'n' roll than from one of its legends, Gene Simmons?

E! Online reports the KISS demon has signed on to star in six episodes of VH1's Rock School, a reality series inspired by the hit movie, School of Rock, according to Daily Variety.

Only, instead of Jack Black instructing classically trained kiddies, the music network has tapped the fire-spewing, tongue-wagging bass player of the world's most outrageous glam band to offer up lessons in everything from how to don the monster makeup to presumably playing such KISS gems as Lick It Up, Calling Dr. Love and Rock and Roll All Nite.

For Simmons, who taught sixth grade before rising to rock fame, the show is yet another opportunity to soften his own image from the brash rock 'n' roll playboy he's been tagged in the tabloids to a sort of professor of rock.

Busted for Double Swiping

A 21-year-old fast-food employee has been sentenced to probation and six months in jail for double-swiping the credit cards of customers who irritated him.

Travis Dominguez pleaded guilty to one count of credit card fraud, a third-degree felony. He was accused of doubled-swiping cards at the Taco Bell where he worked, putting in different amounts on the second swipe between $20 and $30.

Third District Judge Glenn Iwasaki ordered a psychological evaluation and $142.22 restitution, and barred Dominguez from employment involving financial transactions.

4th Grader Lands Brit Interview

A fourth-grader at Hancock Park Elementary School in Los Angeles was able to do what no seasoned journalist has in recent weeks — score an exclusive interview with Britney Spears on the state of her marriage to Kevin Federline.

When 10-year-old Veronica You read that the pop star was staying at the L'Merigot Hotel in Santa Monica, Calif., a few weeks ago, she slipped a note under Spears' door asking for an interview for her school paper — and Spears herself called, telling the tyke to "ask anything you want."

Among her revelations, Britney told her that the best thing about her marriage to Federline was "just having somebody that always has your back no matter what. No matter what goes wrong, somebody is there for you." Although Spears wouldn't confirm if she was pregnant, she did say she wanted a baby soon — and didn't care if it was a boy or a girl.

You told Page Six that Spears was "super sweet" and when her cellphone accidentally cut out, the star even called right back and apologized.

Aniston is a Godmother

In her latest role, Jennifer Aniston joined her former Friends costar Courteney Cox Arquette in Birmingham, Ala., for Saturday's baptism of Cox's and husband David Arquette's 10-month-old daughter, Coco.

Aniston was named one of Coco's godmothers during a "wonderful gathering" of about 110 friends and family members at St. Stephen's Episcopal, said the Rev. Doug Carpenter.

Move On, Shar

Actress Shar Jackson blames herself for her ex-boyfriend Kevin Federline leaving her to marry Britney Spears - because she urged him to move to Los Angeles to find work.

The former Moesha star was six months pregnant with Federline's second child when she learned that he had embarked on a romance with singer Spears. And mother of four Jackson admits she told dancer Federline he had to go and look for work after she became fed up with supporting him.

She tells Star magazine, "Ironically, I was the one who said, 'Hey dude, you need to get a job. The thing where I'm the only one with an income is not going to work.'" So in April of last year, Federline went to Los Angeles for auditions and met Spears while out partying one night. They eventually embarked on a romance, before getting married in September.

Jackson adds, "I was hurt really, really bad. It was the stupidest thing to think that Kevin would leave me when I'm six months pregnant with his baby. I just couldn't believe it."

WTF?

Amber waves of hein:

--Hell, even Harry looks frightened!

You're Busted

The Apprentice contestant Chris Shelton – whom Donald Trump had asked if he has an anger-management problem – was arrested on charges of disorderly conduct early Sunday at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa.

Shelton, 22, a Nevada real estate investor, was taken into custody at around 3:30 a.m. and placed behind bars at the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Department, reports the Smoking Gun Web site, relying on police records.

Diddy's Daddy Dollars

Hip-hop star Sean "P. Diddy" Combs has been ordered to pay more than $21,000 a month in child support to an ex-girlfriend with whom he has an 11-year-old son.

The order, issued Thursday by the New York Supreme Court's Appellate Division, came after Combs appealed a Westchester Family Court ruling last year that he should pay $35,000 a month. He currently pays about $5,000.

The ex-girlfriend, Misa Hylton-Brim, had sued for higher monthly payments and about $398,000 in back support for their son, Justin.

Hmmm

Brad Pitt, whose marriage to Jennifer Aniston has gone down the tubes, was spotted escorting Mariane Pearl - the widow of murdered US journalist Daniel Pearl - to a U2 concert at LA's Staples Center.

And Pitt, whose production company, Plan B Entertainment, has bought the rights to a film on Daniel's life, pulled out all the stops to ensure his date had a good time.

An insider said, "Brad picked up Mariane from the underground car park of the W Hotel in Westwood. At the concert they were ushered straight into the VIP area and had an amazing time. The set blew them both away."

Casting News

George Clooney and Cate Blanchett could soon team up for a murder mystery with a romantic twist.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Clooney is in talks, and Blanchett has already started negotiations, to star in an upcoming Warner Bros. flick called 'The Good German.'

The story follows an American reporter searching for a lost love overseas (following World War II) who stumbles upon the body of an American soldier in a Russian War zone and becomes entangled in an unfolding murder mystery. Producers are currently aiming for a September start date on the new project.

--I just don't see them having any on-screen chemistry. Hope I'm wrong.

Do Real Men Drink Pink?

AskMen.com highlights 10 Manly Drinks and gives the recipies for them. Go figure--Zima's not on the list!

This article brought up a question in my mind, and I thought I'd ask your opinion. I've seen an increasing number of men drinking cosmos. Every time I see a man sipping a cosmo, I think, "Real men don't drink pink." Am I totally off base with this? For some reason, it just looks odd to me.

Liar, Liar

The woman who accused Colin Farrell of stalking her is convinced the Irish actor persuaded TV bosses to belittle her claim in a new show about her allegations -- in which she fails a lie detector test.

Former phone sex line worker Dessarae Bradford agreed to take a polygraph test on PAX-TV's Lie Detector show to prove she was telling the truth when she filed a lawsuit alleging Farrell tormented her with lewd phone calls and text messages.

But when the show's host, Rolanda Watts, told Bradford the machine had proved she was lying, Bradford called her a w**** and accused Farrell of bribing the show's bosses to undermine her claims. Bradford, who's currently promoting her self-published book Colin Farrell: A Dark Twisted Puppy, said, "I was set up. I think Colin's lawyer and the people who handle his image have spent tens of thousands of dollars to manipulate the outcome of the show.

"He became obsessed with me, so they tried to chew me up in the Hollywood machine."

Nicole and Russell Beaten By Wiggles

The Wiggles have sung and danced their way to the top of a list of Australia's wealthiest entertainers, edging out Hollywood heavyweights such as Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe.

The four Australian performers topped BRW Magazine's list of Australia's 50 richest performers in 2004 with an estimated gross income of $34.5 million, up from $10.7 million in the previous year. advertisement

Kidman almost doubled her earnings and was Australia's second richest performer with $30 million, according to the magazine, which hit newsstands Thursday. She was followed by Crowe, who earned an estimated $20 million in 2004.

--Would I have heard anything they have sung?

Are You Kidding Me?

What every young girl needs: The Destiny's Child Barbie Doll Assortment:

--Wonder if they are the standard Barbie dimensions, or if they are "bootylicious."

Please God, No

KFeddy: Uncut and Unintelligent:

Britney Spears' husband Kevin Federline is hoping to land even more screen time, after pitching a reality TV show of his own.

Just a day after announcing a reality show with Spears, dancer Federline, an aspiring model, actor and singer, has reportedly been trying to sell the idea of another series chronicling his professional life as he records and promotes his first album.

No record deal has been announced, but Federline met with executives at US cable network E! Entertainment Television on April 1st, and pitched himself as the next Eminem, according to People magazine. E! has yet to offer him a deal, but Federline is reportedly getting a boost from his wife, who is allowing him access to top music producers to help launch his debut album.

A pal says, "(Critics) want to make him out to be the 'taker' he is really not. He's just trying to do his best being in the spotlight."

Don't Mess With Nicole

Simple Life star Nicole Richie turned shopping aisle vigilante recently when she manhandled a woman who tried to steal from her purse.

The daughter of Lionel Richie spotted the chubby woman reaching into her handbag as she shopped for toiletries in a Beverly Hills store and immediately went on the attack.

Richie reportedly pinned the thief up against a wall as security guards rushed over to see what the fuss was all about. After listening to the desperate housewife's pleas for mercy, Richie decided not to press charges.

Elton Praises Eminem

Elton John says that Eminem is on par with Jimi Hendrix and Mick Jagger. In the new issue of Rolling Stone, the rapper is listed in the magazine's second "Immortals" edition, featuring another 50 of the greatest figures of rock 'n' roll with appreciations written by other artists. In his immortalizing of Eminem, John writes that he got goose bumps when he first rehearsed with him for their performance at the 2001 Grammy Awards.

"From the start, I've always admired Eminem's thinking," John writes. "That's the reason I wanted to appear on the Grammys with him when I was asked, despite all the nonsense talked about his being homophobic. Let the Boy Georges and the George Michaels of the world get up in a twist about it if they don't have the intelligence to see his intelligence."

Other contributors include Dave Matthews writing on Radiohead, Trey Anastasio on Frank Zappa, Beck on Hank Williams, David Bowie on Nine Inch Nails and Mos Def on Miles Davis.

End of the Mockumentary?

This Is Spinal Tap icon Christopher Guest has disappointed fans by refusing to make any more "mockumentary" movies - because he no longer finds them funny. The actor/director realized he'd made too many comic documentaries when he helped compile Best In Show, the Museum of Modern Art's retrospective of his movies in New York.

Guest explains, "I had always intended to do just three movies in that format, and then do something else. I don't think I'll go back to the documentary-style genre. Eugene Levy (his friend and collaborator) and I talked about different possibilities. One was a Western. I'm not trying to make blockbuster movies. I don't know how to. I'm just trying to make movies that are funny for me."

--Oh, say it isn't so. I think his movies are both HYSTERICAL and GENIUS.

Materially Annoying

Hilary Duff is teaming up with none other than her older sis' Haylie for her next big-screen project.

The sisters will star as cosmetic company heiresses in an upcoming flick called 'Material Girls,' reports Daily Variety. The story follows the young socialites as they launch an investigation to uncover the reason that their substantial fortune has suddenly disappeared.

Hilary is expected to re-record one of Madonna's most popular hits, "Material Girl," for the upcoming movie's soundtrack.

--Gag.

Double Duty

Check out these six spots where multitasking New Yorkers can grab a drink—and a manicure, a latte, or a unique work of art.

--A martini and a pedicure at the same time? Bliss. :)

Calm Down, Russell

Russell Crowe has reportedly blown up at a fan.

The Oscar-winning actor was said to have flown into a rage when a women approached him in a restaurant, asking for an autograph. The 'Gladiator' star had been enjoying a meal with wife Danielle Spencer in New Wales, Australia, when the alleged incident occurred.

An onlooker said: "The woman was a huge fan and wanted to do the autograph thing. "Yet, her bloke kept a lid on it, rightly suggesting that star or not, people should be allowed to have a meal in peace."

However, when the bills arrived there was a mix-up between the bills and the couple got Crowe's bill instead. So the fan approached the table, explained the problem and then asked for an autograph. However, her request didn't go down well. The witness added: "He yelled at the restaurant staff and then shouted at the woman, who was rapidly becoming a former fan, suggesting she'd set the whole bill thing up."

This is not the first time Crowe has been accused of bad behavior. Last he, he was accused of biting his bodyguard during a fight while filming his new movie in Canada.

MTV Goes Into Overdrive

MTV plans to launch a hybrid linear video and on-demand channel called MTV Overdrive on its MTV.com Web site (www.mtv.com) April 25.

Overdrive will contain free content, and executives said it will be supported with ad revenue, mainly in the form of 15-second commercials that will run between segments.

Overdrive will initially contain five programming channels. "The Lineup" will contain news, music content and movie clips; "News" will feature clips updated four times daily from MTV News; "Music" will contain music videos; "On TV" will feature behind-the-scenes content from MTV shows; and "Movies” will showcase movie trailers and celebrity interviews.

MTV executives said upcoming additional channels will focus on topics such as video-game culture and personal style.

Elton's Money Woes

Money Troubles for Elton?

Figures reveal that the star's company has an overdraft of nearly £27 million.

The 2004 accounts for William A Bong, which is the parent company of Sir Elton's businesses, showed a fall in turnover of more than £5million.
But the biggest change was in the company's overdraft which rose from £14,880,265 to £26,818,728 in the space of 12 months.

Pop music accountant Cliff Dane said he believed that the figures meant Sir Elton, 58, would have to carry on working for some time if the company was to avoid being in trouble.

Gisele's Language

Gisele Bundchen clearly ignited jealously in her fellow models from the first moment she arrived in New York to begin modeling.

Housed in a model apartment at the age of 16, two years after first being discovered, she lived with a few fellow models who were older than her and took advantage of her lack of English by encouraging her to call everybody she met an "arsehole".

"I could only speak a few words – hello, goodbye, one, two, three, four, five, but that was about it," the 24-year-old model and girlfriend of Leonardo DiCaprio told talk show host Conan O'Brien. "I used to live in a model apartment before I had my own place and I was 16. What did I know? The girls were all older than me and they would go, 'Gisele – arsehole is good.' I was so excited about learning this new word, I wrote it down and went around saying it to everyone.

There was an amazing doorman where we lived and he was about 70-years-old and really nice. So I would go down and say 'good morning arsehole'. He is looking at me but I don't understand. I get to the agency and I am like to all the bookers 'hello arseholes'. Portuguese was my native language, thank God one of the bookers explained I could not say that word. I never said sorry to the doorman so if he is watching, I'm sorry."

Fugly

It appears that Julia is sporting the "bank robber chic" look. Don't shoot, Julia!

Lindsay and Christian?

It hasn't taken Christian Slater long to recover from his split from wife Ryan Haddon.

It seems the 35-year-old has made visits to the set of teen-star Lindsay Lohan's latest film. And an insider told the New York Daily News: "They're definitely hooking up."

Slater, who appeared in a London production of One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest, was even spotted disappearing into the 18-year-old's trailer.

He's the second older man Lohan has been linked with in as many weeks. She allegedly enjoyed a gropefest with Bruce Willis, 50, at the premiere of his new flick Hostage.

Her people deny any romance with Willis and are keeping tight-lipped about Slater.

Good For Her

Finally, a smart move by Britney:

Britney Spears drew up legal documents before her marriage last year to prevent husband Kevin Federline inheriting any of her fortune in case she dies before drawing up a will.

The singer's mother Lynn, sister Jamie Lynn and brother Bryan would take control of a trust fund holding her millions, according to British newspaper the Daily Mirror.

This latest revelation is further evidence Britney is taking every care to safeguard her hard-earned fortune following her brief marriage to childhood friend Jason Alexander - she also made Federline sign a pre-nuptial agreement before their wedding.

A legal expert says, "It looks as though she was planning to use the trust to ring-fence her assets before getting married."

And in other Britney news...

Britney has been barred from looking after her eight-month-old stepson Kaleb, because she's not "experienced" enough.

Spears' husband Kevin Federline welcomed his second child into the world just two months before he walked down the aisle with the beauty. While Federline's ex-girlfriend Shar Jackson allows the newlyweds to look after her two-year-old daughter Kori, she's refusing to leave them with baby Kaleb until he's much older.

She tells Star magazine, "As a mom, I won't put my baby in the hands of somebody who can't handle it. Britney has no experience with babies, and Kevin's a great dad, but his only experience is with Kori, and he had my help the whole time."

What's in the Box?

While the actual scene does not cause me to laugh, when it's performed by stuffed animals, it does.

Mariah Says...

Mariah Carey has insisted that her diva reputation is undeserved.

Referring to her reported insistence that a red carpet with white candles be laid outside London's Baglioni Hotel before she could enter last month, she said: "Who even knew three-foot candles existed? Did you? I wouldn't have noticed if it was a purple carpet with polka dots on it. I'd just got off a plane and it was three in the morning. Trust me, my only thought was, 'Where's the bed?.

--Hmmm...why does it not surprise me that "Where's the bed?" is her only thought?

Becks Needs a Fashion Makeover

David Beckham has been voted Britain's worst dressed man.

The Real Madrid ace, who is married to former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham, topped the poll for UK men's magazine GQ.

Claudia Croft, fashion editor of Britain's Sunday Times newspaper who helped compile the list, said: "Suddenly he looks wrong. He looks over dressed and poncey. You look back on Beckham-mania now and think, 'What was all the fuss about?' He looks ridiculous."

--How did Elton John not top this poll?

Blah Blah Blah

It looks like Warren Beatty is joining the likes of bloggers Britney Spears, Rosie O'Donnell, and Martha Stewart in writing for the Internet.

The 68-year-old actor/director said he would "probably" join a group of stars to write a group column for a new Web site scheduled to launch next month, reports The New York Observer.

Columnist Arianna Huffington will head up the site, called the "Huffington Report," which will reportedly feature Oscar winner Gwyneth Paltrow among its contributors. It is expected to publish articles and content designed to be a kind of counterpart to what some view as the "rightward-tilting" Drudge Report site, says the Observer.

--This will be comical.

BabyTime

ABC's youngest co-host for "The View," Elisabeth Hasselbeck, delivered a 7-pound, 8-ounce baby girl on Wednesday morning.

It is the first child for her and her NFL quarterback husband, Tim Hasselbeck, whose birthday also happens to be April 6. The beautiful blonde co-host is expected to reveal the name of her new daughter Thursday on "The View," when she calls in for a televised phone chat with the popular daytime ladies.

Husband Cuts Madonna

Madonna has been trying to reclaim the praise she earned acting with then boyfriend Warren Beatty in Dick Tracy and with Rosie O'Donnell in A League of Their Own for about a decade now. And many critics thought they had seen the last of her after her cinematic collaboration with husband Guy Ritchie in 2002's Swept Away, but it takes a lot more than bad reviews to make her disappear from the big screen.

IMDb.com reports that Madonna has been cut out of Ritchie's latest movie by the director himself. The blonde powerhouse shot a cameo role as a female crime boss in Ritchie's upcoming Revolver but failed to make the final edit.

--Bet that caused a spat.

Oscar and Martha Collaborate

On April 6th, the Martha Graham Dance Company kicks off its 2005 season with a revival of the 1940's piece "Deaths and Entrances," featuring costumes by legendary designer Oscar de la Renta.

This drama of desire and repression is inspired by the lives of the Bronte sisters, and de la Renta's costumes continue the haute legacy Graham initiated when she collaborated with Calvin Klein and Halston on earlier works.

"Re-imagining the original costumes, Oscar de la Renta's talent for dramatic yet human design will draw the 1840's lives of the Bronte sisters through the lens of Graham's 1940's creation of the characters, into beautiful present life," according to the MGDC's artistic directors Christine Dakin and Terese Capucilli.

"Deaths and Entrances" runs through April 17th at New York City Center and opens with a fashionista-studded gala, hosted by Melania Trump, Diane von Furstenburg, Vera Wang and Andre Leon Talley.

--Sounds very cool.

Walmart v. Target

Walmart v. Target--a price comparison.

--While it seems I'm spending a few more $$, I'm a Target girl.

Money Well Spent?

Director Tim Burton blew millions on new film Charlie and the Chocolate Factory — training squirrels to crack nuts.

The Batman director was determined to recreate the “nut room” scene in Roald Dahl’s novel for his movie starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter.

He spent six months teaching the 200 rodents to crack hazelnuts, sort them and load them on a conveyor belt.

So Misunderstood

This made me laugh:

Rapper C-Murder, in jail after a murder conviction in the 2002 killing of a teenager, has changed his stage name because he thinks he's been misunderstood. "I am not a murderer," the rapper, whose real name is Corey Miller, said in a statement released Tuesday.

He will now go by C Miller, said his publicist, Giovanni Melchiorre of New York-based Koch Records. Miller's statement said people had misinterpreted the C-Murder name, which he intended as a reflection of his upbringing in one of New Orleans' most violent housing projects.

"From the beginning, I have been a target because of who I am, my stage name and for my success as an entertainer and the success of my siblings," said Miller, whose brothers Percy and Vyshonn are also rappers. "People hear the name C-Murder and they don't realize that the name simply means that I have seen many murders in my native Calliope projects neighborhood."

--Right. Wonder what The Killers have to say about this. I suppose he believes people thought the Go Go's were real go-go dancers, and that The Presidents of the United States of America traveled on Air Force One.

Cozying Up to the Camel

Penelope Cruz poses with one of her Sahara co-stars:

Kirsten and Jake to Wed?

Kirsten and Jake to Wed?

Kirsten Dunst is reportedly set to marry boyfriend Jake Gyllenhaal - after winning over his mother.

The 'Spider-Man' beauty recently rekindled her romance with the Hollywood heartthrob after a short break and friends claim she is now ready to settle down and is even planning a lavish wedding.

One said: "She did a lot of thinking during their time apart and now she's 100 per cent committed - but it's taken time to convince Jake's mother, Naomi Forner, who is very protective of her son."

Kirsten and Jake - who began dating two years ago after being introduced by Jake's actress sister, Maggie - got back together last month, after being spotted kissing on several occasions. A source close to the couple revealed at the time: "They've had their problems but now they're determined to make a real go of it."

Avril Says...

Avril Lavigne has revealed that she hates the idea of a showbiz entourage enjoyed by many stars.

The singer finds that her life is far less complicated when she is left to her own devices and is not being followed around by people trying to style her hair.

She told Maxim magazine: "I don't need a posse. I'm very independent and very low-maintenance. I don't like people touching my hair, doing my make-up or telling me what to wear. I just find the less people around, the better things are. I don't need people around me telling me what to do. I'm like: 'Just go!'."

--I like her. She's talented, down to earth, and says what she feels.

Pre-Show Breakup?

Britney Spears wants fans to know what her life is really like ... and she plans to use a new reality show to do it. According to Daily Variety, the famous pop idol and her husband, dancer Kevin Federline, have made a deal with UPN for six episodes of an unscripted series to document their relationship, from the early stages of dating until the wedding on September 18, 2004.

"I feel that last year, the tabloids ran my life," Spears tells Variety, "and I am really excited about showing my fans what really happened, rather than all the stories, which have been misconstrued by journalists in the past. As I mentioned before, I am now going to be expressing my personal life through art."

Spears and Federline are expected to host the still-untitled show, in which they will present and explain video footage they filmed themselves throughout the year. Although no premiere date has been set, Variety speculates it could debut later this spring.

HOWEVER, might separate before their UPN reality show premiere next month, if their current behavior is any indication. Just after Federline spent the weekend before last in Vegas, where a "hostess" was keeping him company, the couple holed up in the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica — but in separate rooms.

A spywitness staying there said, "They moved into the hotel because their house in Malibu is being renovated. But Britney stayed in the main building and Kevin stayed in the bungalows. "They were not together at all the entire week. They called their family in for an emergency meeting. They are having serious issues, and the families were called to try and help them work it out."

Sadly, the two spent almost no time together talking things through, even though Spears is widely believed to be pregnant with Federline's child — although it has not been confirmed.

"Every time they came and went to and from the hotel, it was in separate cars," we're told. "Kevin played a lot of golf at a nearby golf course and Britney was just roaming the hotel everyday in either a muu-muu or an oversized sweatshirt, sobbing. Her mother was with her, but not Kevin. "Britney left the hotel [Monday], but Kevin is still here."

Dollywood To Take Over the World

Country star Dolly Parton thrilled fans during the 20th anniversary celebration of her Dollywood theme park - by vowing to open a succession of Dollywood resorts around the world.

Dolly, 58, is delighted the amusement park - which features more than 30 breast-themed rides and attractions - was named the top paid tourist attraction in Tennessee last year.

And after the anniversary celebrations, Parton took to the stage and announced that although she rejected a proposed Dollywood II in Japan in 2002, she is keen to invest in resorts across the globe.

She says, "We are just getting started. We are going to keep dreaming and continuing to grow and prove that we are one of the best theme parks in the whole wide world.

--I don't know anyone who has been to Dollywood. Someone please explain to me why flocks of people go here.

Brad Buys a House

Brad Pitt isn't wasting any time in moving on from his marriage to Jennifer Aniston - he's bought a Malibu, California cliff-top retreat for $9 million.

The Troy star, who has reportedly agreed to give his estranged wife the home they shared in Hollywood as part of a secret divorce settlement, fell in love with his new three-bedroom beachfront home after seeing it featured in architecture and property magazine Distinctive Homes.

Brad's new pad also comes with four bathrooms, a 70 foot swimming pool and neighbors including Goldie Hawn and Mel Gibson.

All Reality, All the Time

News Corps. will give cable operators meeting in San Francisco a preview of its new 24-hour reality-based cable channel, Daily Variety said Monday.

The paper said the media giant would take the wraps off the overall strategy, look and programming plans for Fox Reality during the National Cable & Telecommunications Association's 2005 conference at the Moscone Center.

Fox Reality General Manager David Lyle was expected to announce the channel has secured rights to some 30 series for a May 24 launch. The new channel will air Fox series including "The Swan," Joe Millionaire" and "Temptation Island" -- as well as shows that aired on other networks, such as "Last Comic Standing" and "For Love or Money," which aired originally on NBC.

Marriage Woes

More drama with Chris and Gwenyth:

Gwyneth Paltrow's marriage to British rocker Chris Martin is on the rocks after only 14-months--the pressure of combining their successful careers, marriage and parenthood is tearing them apart.

The couple have shared a series of blazing rows as they spend more and more time apart--the Coldplay singer has been working on his band's highly anticipated but delayed third album, while the Oscar-winning actress has been left at home in London looking after their eight-month-old daughter Apple.

A friend tells British newspaper the Daily Mirror, "Adjusting to married life, then being parents and now trying to sort out their professional lives has been a lot more difficult and complicated than either of them imagined."

Tensions between Paltrow and Martin recently boiled over at New York restaurant Next Door at Nobu--which has a no reservation policy--as they waited for a table. The row only came to a close when Paltrow stormed out and waited in their car--but Martin defiantly waited for a table. An onlooker says, "The argument began about the table, but turned into more personal things."

Chan's Cookies?

Kung fu superstar Jackie Chan is staking out opposite ends of the health spectrum — becoming a partner in a fitness center chain while launching a new line of cookies and chocolates.

Chan recently announced that his JC Flavor brand will start selling snacks — including cheese oatcakes — during the second half of this year. The launch will begin in Hong Kong and mainland China before rolling out to the rest of the world, a news release said.

Lilly Pulitzer Barbie

Barbie and Lilly Pulitzer have come together for the newest designer Mattel Doll, Lilly Pulitzer Barbie.

Clad in a vintage Lilly Pulitzer print, the new Barbie has upswept brown hair, giant sunglasses, a pink straw tote, and—just like the real Lilly—a daughter sporting her own modern version of Lilly’s classic designs. The Barbie retails for $50 and ships in August, though orders are already pouring in from both doll enthusiasts and Lilly followers, who can find the newest Mattel toy at signature Lilly Pulitzer stores.

Lettin' Loose

Host Ben Stiller and Johnny Depp get gooey at the 18th Annual Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards in Westwood, California on Saturday. The Finding Neverland actor was this year's slime recipient, which he called "a great honor."

--It's nice to see these stars let loose for the younger generation. Makes me miss "You Can't Do That on Television." What a great show! :)

Keep Your Hands to Yourself

Lisa Marie Presley's recent California concert erupted into chaos, after a frisky man sparked a huge fight in the crowd.

The singer was performing at Anaheim's House of Blues and wasn't sure what to do when she saw the melee break out as she entertained the crowd.

She says, "It was song two and I always thought (before this), 'I'll stop the show and say knock if off, because I don't like that.'

"Then I realized if you do that, the whole place will get involved so it's not a good idea. It was not fun. Some guy grabbed the wrong girl's butt."

She's Right on Target

I'm so with you, Lauren:

Screen veteran Lauren Bacall has launched another attack on today's actresses - accusing them of being skinny, talentless and money-obsessed women who sacrifice everything for fame.

The 80-year-old Birth star insists she's glad she put her movie career on hold to marry actor Humphrey Bogart, because her generation rightfully believed family and happiness was more important than the ruthless quest for money and celebrity status. And she fears movie star status has been cheapened by the influx of talentless women who win film and TV roles because they're thin and attractive.

She complains, "I put my career in second place throughout both my marriages and it suffered. I don't regret it. You make choices. If you want a good marriage, you must pay attention to that. If you want to be independent, go ahead. You can't have it all.

"Today, women with minuscule talent are willing to sacrifice everything for their careers. Actors today go into TV, which I don't consider has a lot to do with acting. They only think of stardom. If you photograph well, that's enough. I have a terrible time distinguishing one from another. Girls wear their hair the same, and are much too anorexic-looking. We live in an age of mediocrity. Stars today are not the same stature as Bogie (Humphrey Bogart), Jimmy Cagney, Spencer Tracy, Henry Fonda and Jimmy Stewart."

I'm Having Trouble Picturing This

Come again?

Vin Diesel still hopes to coax Nicole Kidman and Robbie Williams into joining him in a remake of 50s musical Guys and Dolls.

The Hollywood hardman thinks the project is a winner, although he admits it is miles away from his usual action roles in films such as XXX.

Vin says: "I think once it gets going, everyone will be up for it."

Very Cool

"Dude, I just got a free iPod!"

That's likely what many of the 1,650 new students at Duke University were thinking when the college distributed new 20GB Apple iPods to its incoming freshman class during orientation. The unique one-year experiment, which cost the school more than half a million dollars to fund, is the latest attempt to inject new technology into college classrooms.

"People were eager to see whether such a popular device could be used in an academic setting," said Tracy Futhey, Duke's vice president of information technology. "We thought about different technologies, but really saw the iPod as the ideal one because it was so popular with students. We knew there would be no challenge in getting them to use it. The [real] question was what other creative academic uses we could put it to." The groundbreaking initiative is part of a pilot-program joint venture between Duke and Apple.

The portable digital devices come preloaded with content from the university, including an academic calendar, orientation information and faculty-provided course content through a special Duke Web site modeled on the Apple iTunes Web site.

No Sense of Humor

Grow up, Michael:

Ashton Kutcher has reportedly been forced to ditch one of his pranks on hit show Punk'd, after victim Michael Vartan failed to see the funny side of it.

Most stars - including Justin Timberlake, Halle Berry and Salma Hayek - have laughed when they've discovered their mini crises were fictional situations dreamed up by Kutcher.

But, according Us Weekly, Jennider Garner's ex-boyfriend Vartan was far from amused with the prank chosen for him. A source says, "They get Michael on a jet, and he finds out the plane is in really bad shape. He wants off, but the pilot and flight attendants won't let him. "Things are falling off the plane - it's really coming apart and they're telling him, 'No, it's fine, stay.'"

After the prank was revealed, the crew laughed, but a furious Vartan reportedly refused to sign a release for the segment to be broadcast.

You'll Shoot Your Eye Out!

"You'll Shoot Your Eye Out!"

The home where the classic holiday movie "A Christmas Story" was filmed has been purchased on eBay by a California man for $150,000. Brian Jones could not resist when his wife told him eBay was offering the Cleveland home where the film family lived in the 1940s and the main character, a boy named Ralphie, daydreamed of shooting bad guys with a BB gun he hoped to get for Christmas.

The starting bid for the four-bedroom house was $99,999.

Jones, 29, of San Diego, plans to restore the home's exterior to the deep yellow with green-trimmed windows it had in the movie and revamp the interior to resemble its movie appearance.

He also wants to create a museum in the home and open a gift store selling items linked to the movie, including Ovaltine, Little Orphan Annie decoder rings and "leg lamps" like the one Ralphie's father proudly displayed in the front window of his family's house.

--I adore this movie. When he gets the museum up and running, I'm SO there!

From Boy Bander to Mayor

Justin Jeffre, a former member of 98 Degrees, wants to be Cincinnati's next mayor, saying his love for his hometown and desire to make it better motivated his decision to run.

"I am serious about this, and I intend to win," Jeffre, 32, said last week. Jeffre said he wants to bring people from all over the city together through Cincinnati's arts and entertainment venues and build a strong downtown. "We need to sell this city back to the people of this city," he said. "We've forgotten how great this city can be."

He also wants VH1 to follow his campaign for a reality series. VH1 officials have said no decision has been made on his proposal. Jeffre doesn't have a political affiliation and plans to run as an independent, his spokeswoman, Andrea Leslie, said.

On Hold?

Sienna and Jude's Wedding on Hold?

Could there be relationship trouble ahead for Jude Law? Ananova.com reports that Law, 32. and Sienna Miller's wedding has been put on hold.

Miller, who has been in the tabloids recently for her clubbing and late night partying, allegedly wants some time to decide if they have a future together. Miller, 23, who initially jumped into the relationship with both feet, now reportedly wants to take it slowly.

"Sienna is having serious doubts about this wedding. Jude is becoming very disapproving of her partying while he's away. He even texted Sienna from America on the night of the Baftas telling her to go home." said a tattler in The Sun. "Jude no longer seems to be the man Sienna once thought he was. They've been apart for weeks on end and Jude has become very protective."

"Jude is desperate to set a date for the wedding but Sienna is telling pals she needs more time," adds the insider.

Celebrity Living Weekly

Brainchild of American Media Inc. editorial director Bonnie Fuller is, says Star vp/publisher Michelle Myers, a no gossipy look at celebrity homes, parties, etc., with emphasis, too, on beauty/fashion.

The old Robin Leach program Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous influences Celebrity Living Weekly, as it did with 1994 launch In Style, but the goal here is to take newsstand share away from Bauer Publishing's InTouch spinoff Life & Style Weekly.

Thus, CLW will have a $1.89 cover price versus IT's and L&SW's $1.99 (Star and US Weekly charge $3.29; People, $3.49). Five-issue test starts May 2.

Keys To Do Film

Alicia Keys' first motion picture has a screenwriter.

Variety reports Jose Rivera ("The Motorcycle Diaries") will adapt the novel "Compositions in Black and White" for Sony Pictures. Keys is attached to play Philippa Schuyler, a woman who went from being a child prodigy to the first child of color to become a nationally prominent musician. Schuyler was composing music by the age of 5, but racial and gender discrimination in the 1930s provided a heavy burden.

Marc Platt ("Legally Blonde") and Halle Berry are producing.

Oh, Mary-Kate

Yikes!

Pretty in Pink Sequel

Director John Hughes has announced that classic '80s movie Pretty In Pink is to get a sequel.

The teen film followed high school student Andie, who developed a crush on the school's new guy, while her friend Duckie, who secretly loves Andie, is forced to step aside.

The sequel, which is planned for a 2006 release, will show fans what has changed for the characters now that their high school days are over. The movie's original stars - Molly Ringwald, Andrew McCarthy and John Cryer - have all agreed to appear.

Sell Out?

Having already been blasted by Russell Crowe for appearing in booze ads in Europe, 'Ocean's 11' star George Clooney could be in for more of a roasting as he stars in a new Budweiser commercial.

It will be the second alcohol brand that the actor endorses. He has already appeared in campaigns for Martini, although these have not been shown in the US. He has also appeared in Italian ads for the Fiat Idea.

Clooney follows in the footsteps of fellow 'Ocean's 11' and 'Ocean's 12' star Brad Pitt, who is appearing in an ad for Heineken. However, he will not be seen on screen in the spot, according to reports, but will lend his voice.

Not That Desperate

Not that Desperate:

Britney Spears has been refused a cameo part in hit TV show Desperate Housewives - despite begging producers to cast her.

The superstar's request was snubbed because producers fear big name personalities will detract from the adventures of the show's main characters.

James Denton, who plays hunky plumber Mike Delfino, says, "Britney Spears' people have been trying to get her on the show and I can promise you that will never happen."

Dropping Out

Sharon Osbourne and her daughter Aimee have pulled out of a West End production of The Vagina Monologues due to unavoidable personal reasons".

The family was due to return to Los Angeles on Saturday so eldest daughter Aimee, 21, could receive treatment for an undisclosed illness. The pair, due to perform from Tuesday, apologized for "letting the cast down".

"Sharon's focus now has to be on the family and, more importantly, Aimee's health," a statement said.

Supporting the Troops

Destiny's Child, Ja Rule, Hootie and the Blowfish and Kiss were just a few of the groups rockin' out in support of our nation's troops Friday night.

Camp Pendleton, the West Coast home of the Marine Corps, hosted the celebration, called "Rockin' The Corps," in honor of all the men and women of the armed services who serve to safeguard freedom for all Americans.

The event featured special celebrity appearances by Sharon Stone, Marisa Tomei, "American Idol" judge Randy Jackson and more. To date, Camp Pendleton has suffered the highest casualty rate of United States military personnel killed in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Could Be a Dealbreaker

Teenage singing sensation Joss Stone has risked her new multimillion-pound contract as the face of the Gap fashion chain by setting up home with her older lover.

Joss, still only 17, has caused a storm of controversy in America by moving in with 25-year-old millionaire music producer Beau Dozier, son of legendary Motown hit-maker Lamont Dozier.

Under Californian law, Joss is under the age of sexual consent, which means her new boyfriend could face a potentially ruinous prosecution for so-called "statutory rape".

Gap, which dumped former Sex And The City star Sarah Jessica Parker in favour of the Devon-born soul singer, guards its clean-cut reputation. And in California, where anyone under 18 is not deemed old enough to consent to sex, the law is strictly enforced.

Get Well, Neil

Rocker Neil Young was treated for a "dangerous brain aneurysm" this week but is expected to make a full recovery, his agent said Friday.

Young underwent "minimally invasive neuroradiology" treatment Tuesday at a New York hospital and remains hospitalized.

"The procedure corrected the problem and has been characterized as a complete success with a total recovery. And resumption of normal activities by the 59-year-old rock legend is predicted for the near future," agent Bob Merlis said in a statement.

Ledger-Williams Having a Baby?

Hollywood couple Heath Ledger and Michelle Williams are at the center of a pregnancy riddle after the former Dawson's Creek beauty was spotted at a pre-natal yoga class.

The two started dating last June after meeting on the set of Ang Lee's cowboy film Brokeback Mountain. Williams has been staying in Ledger's beachside Sydney home since December as The Patriot star films Australian drama Candy alongside Geoffrey Rush in the area.

Local Sydney newspaper The Daily Telegraph reports Williams has been a regular visitor to a weeknight yoga class, which tutors pregnant women in their second and third trimesters. The paper also claims Williams has been spotted in loose-fitting clothes whenever she is spotted in public.

A Different Project for Alicia

Clueless star Alicia Silverstone loves eating out so much, she plans to release her own restaurant guide.

The devout vegan constantly thumbs through restaurant guides to get their opinions on the world's eateries, before making notes of her own once she's visited them.

She says, "I'm obsessed with the Zagat guide. I carry it with me everywhere." "I would like to come out with my own version of the Zagat guide 'cause I've made such amazing notes. I know all the best places to go. I think one day (I'll publish it). I mean, it's so fun."

Ben's Not All That

Hollywood hunk Ben Affleck might have once been named the sexiest man alive, but his co-star Michael Clarke Duncan warns Affleck's female fans that the star is not at all impressive if you see him naked.

"Don't get me wrong, ladies, Ben is cool, but I've seen the guy naked in Armageddon and c'mon, man! I was not impressed at all, man! I was like, 'This is it, huh? This is it right here?'

Cowabunga!

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are heading back to the big screen with first-time movie director Kevin Munroe at the helm.

Munroe has taken over the project from John Woo, who passed on the film last year.

--Why?

Word

Jessica Simpson, showing how "street" she is, also shows us how high she can count:

April Fool's Drag Fun

The pranksters at PETA had a super-size April Fool's Day surprise planned for Star Jones Reynolds — and dozens of studio audience members at "The View" this morning.

Flotilla DeBarge — the 6-foot-tall cross-dresser a.k.a. "The Empress of Large," uncowed by threats from Star's legal team — will leap out of a limo in front of "The View" studios just as the audience is exiting to unveil her new "Fur Is a Drag" parody ad for PETA.

Jones, who regularly flaunts furs, threatened to sue PETA over the campaign, charging that the public might be fooled into thinking the huge drag queen was really Jones. "Who better to judge that than 'The View's' own studio audience?" said a PETA rep.

--Dead on look-alike.

Putting Her Boobs Away

Sorry guys:

Tyra Banks wants to keep her cleavage to herself from now on. The American supermodel, who is currently presenting the America's New Top Model reality series, says it's time to hide her boobs.

"I've been the sexpot-type model kinda girl for so long – I've been modeling since I was 15," she says. "Now I'm doing a talk show and moving into other areas, I'm hosting these girls ands being a den mother on my model show, so it's time to retire all this, I think."

Halle and Heavy?

Halle and Heavy?

Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry turned heads recently when she was spotted out on a date with a new man - rapper Heavy D.

Berry shocked diners at Los Angeles' Madeo when she reportedly walked in holding hands with the slimmed-down star.

An onlooker tells Us Weekly, "They sat down at a cozy booth in a quiet corner and had dinner and drinks. When they walked out, they held hands again."

Blonde No More

Looks like Paris has ditched the blonde look for awhile:

Wedding Bells?

Rumors Fly:

They've spent months denying marriage and baby rumors, but do Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher finally have something to hide?

Inside sources have told People magazine that the couple commissioned wedding rings from jeweler-to-the-stars Neil Lane last month. The source says, "The wedding is being planned."

While one friend says that Moore, 42, is taking things slowly, fearing revealing too much too soon, another insider says that Ashton's girlfriend "is definitely pregnant. She's about two months."

Bye, Carter

One of NBC's original "ER" doctors, Noah Wyle, will leave his popular TV job on May 19th.

According to USA Today, Wyle, the only lead who has stayed with the series throughout its nearly 11-year run, will perform his last episode as a regular cast member (Dr. Carter) on the upcoming season finale. The 33-year-old Emmy nominee is, however, expected to return to the show for a few appearances over the next two seasons.

His character, Dr. Carter, will rekindle the romance with an old flame, Kem (Thandie Newton), before departing the Chicago hospital on a mission to help underprivileged patients overseas.

--Sad. He was my favorite.

Green With Envy

Boy George has confessed his rant against Madonna was partly down to jealousy.

The former Culture Club singer branded the Material Girl a "hypocrite" for supporting Kabbalah, a faith that brands homosexuality "a disease", but now says he's envious of her top gay-icon status. "It would be dishonest to say there wasn't a degree of jealousy," he says.

Shacking Up?

According to The Sun, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie shared a hotel suite during a recent weekend trip and booked in as a married couple - renaming themselves Bryce and Jasmine for the trip.

Of course, it could all be part of a publicity stunt for their new movie Mr And Mrs Smith...

They rented a suite - which admittedly is made up of several rooms - at the swanky Le Parker Meridien in Palm Springs, California, where a photo session for their new film was set to take place. However, the couple stayed on for two days after the shoot ended.

They were seen hanging around the pool and sunbathing - clearly happy in each other's company, although they insist they're just good friends.

Lauren Lauren?

Lauren Lauren?

Lauren Bush, the president's niece is dating the son of Ralph Lauren.

Lauren Bush, 20, who models for Elite and just landed the cover of Australian Vogue, is a little young for David Lauren, 34, who runs the marketing for his dad's fashion empire.

No Bette-Brit Collaboration

Bette Midler's planned movie collaboration with Britney Spears has been ditched by Hollywood bosses.

The veteran entertainer and Spears were poised to team up in a film called In the Pink, but Midler regrets the project has not been put into development - meaning it will never happen.

Midler simply says of In The Pink, "Oh, that'll never happen."

--I would have lost a lot of respect for Bette if she would have done that movie.

Thatcher's a Man-Woman

Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe praised former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher as a "man-woman" who could resolve issues but said Tony Blair was a "disaster" for his country.

Addressing supporters in Harare at a campaign rally, Mugabe recounted that he had held a "man-to-man" talk with Thatcher in 1983 to discuss the arrest of 13 British air force officers on suspicion of destroying the country's aircrafts.

"We sat down in 1983 in New Delhi, and we had a man-to-man talk. Thatcher was a man-woman," Mugabe said.

--Cue music from "The Crying Game."