Oct 30, 2007

Celebrities' Humble Beginnings


Everybody has to start somewhere, and early jobs don't always say much about where a career will end up. That's obvious from the lives of some top celebrities, whose first forays into the working world were, well, less than glamorous. Can you picture Madonna at Dunkin' Donuts? Neither can we. As the "Roadtrip Nation" teams learn how diverse people found their paths to success, we look at some A-list stars and how they got their starts.

Johnny Depp
OK, Johnny Depp as a young rock star is totally believable, and long before he took inspiration from Keith Richards for his "Pirates of the Caribbean" role, the actor did front a band called The Kids as a teenager. But one of his first real jobs is harder to picture: as a telemarketer trying to sell pens over the phone. (Sara De Boer / Retna Ltd.)
Jennifer Lopez
J.Lo may have gotten her first break as a scantily clad fly girl on "In Living Color," but her first job had her using a lot more brain power than booty power. Yes, the thrice-married pop star/actress got her start - and maybe some prenup tips? - as a law-office assistant. (Kevin Mazur / WireImage.com)
Madonna
Here's good news for all you folks out there working some dead-end job at a fast-food joint: You could potentially become one of the most successful and influential pop icons of all time. Long before providing the world with plenty of chart-topping hits, Madonna provided New Yorkers with plenty of deep-fried goodness at a Dunkin' Donuts in Times Square. (Suzan / PA Photos / Retna Ltd.)

Russell Crowe
The talented but temper-challenged Aussie actor worked briefly as a waiter (wonder if he ever threw cell phones at impatient customers?) and as a singer, under the name Russ Le Roc. The Oscar-winning star has continued making music through the years, but won fame from such diverse roles as a Roman "Gladiator," a mathematical genius ("A Beautiful Mind"), a boxer ("Cinderella Man") and a cop ("L.A. Confidential" and the upcoming "American Gangster"). (Jasper James / Retna Ltd.)
Teri Hatcher
Before she became "Desperate"-ly successful as an actress, Teri Hatcher got her start as a cheerleader for the San Francisco 49ers - not surprising for the girl voted "Most Likely to Become a Solid Gold Dancer" by her high-school graduating class. She later broke into acting as one the mermaids on "The Love Boat" and, most notably, as the object of Superman's desire on "Lois and Clark." (Sara De Boer / Retna Ltd.)
Brad Pitt
The Oscar-nominated actor and former "Sexiest Man Alive" wasn't an instant success. As a struggling actor, his good looks and talent were once hidden under a giant chicken suit as he stood outside a Sunset Boulevard restaurant to attract customers. (Sara De Boer / Retna)
Cate Blanchett
Long before she became film royalty (in "Elizabeth," "Lord of the Rings" and more), Cate was the original Tim-Tam girl - appearing in the first set of ads to promote the Australian chocolate biscuit (that's a cookie to you). (CAMERA PRESS / Theodore Wood / Retna)
J.K. Rowling
Talk about wizardry: J.K. Rowling turned her lifelong dream of writing into the worldwide "Harry Potter" phenomenon, and became a billionaire in the process. But before she got published, she worked at the London office of Amnesty International, researching human-rights abuses in Africa. She has continued to support the organization with her new-found wealth. (Phil Loftus / Capital Pictures / Retna Ltd.)
Evangeline Lilly
For the actress who gained fame as an air-crash survivor on "Lost," it seems ironic that one of her early jobs was as a flight attendant (for Air Canada, not Oceanic Air). She also worked briefly as a waitress and modeled to earn money for her university studies. (Sara De Boer / Retna)

Chris Rock
Chris Rock turned his early job, as a busboy at a Red Lobster, into comic fodder. "The thing about Red Lobster is that if you work there, you can't afford to eat there. You're making minimum wage. A shrimp costs minimum wage," he told Jay Leno in a "Tonight Show" interview. But a later bussing job - at a comedy club -- brought him a chance to try his jokes on stage. (Michael Caulfield / WireImage.com)

Will Ferrell
Real-life Ron Burgundy? The actor/comedian graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in sports information and worked as a sportscaster on cable TV - good training for his future role in "Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy." But he soon discovered stand-up comedy and acting, and joined the comic improv group The Groundlings, which led to a "Saturday Night Live" gig and then the big screen. (Retna Ltd.)

Jim Carrey
Jim Carrey was already a funny guy as a teen, performing in comedy clubs while still in high school. But it wasn't all laughs for the rubber-faced comic ("The Mask," "Dumb and Dumber," "Bruce Almighty"); he worked as a janitor and security guard at a factory to help his family make ends meet during tough times. (Armando Gallo / Retna Ltd.)

Sheryl Crow
Long before ruling the charts, Sheryl Crow ruled the elementary-school classroom as a music teacher in a St. Louis suburb. She later packed up and moved to L.A., where she got her first big break dueting with Michael Jackson on the BAD tour during "I Just Can't Stop Loving You." (No, we can't picture it either). (Neal Preston / Retna Ltd.)
Whoopi Goldberg
She's gone from stand-up comedian to Oscar winner to "View" mediator throughout her career, so it's only fitting that her early professions were just as varied. Among her early jobs were bank teller, brick layer and - eek! - funeral home make-up artist. (Andrew Marks / Retna Ltd.)

Mariah Carey
From the time she was 3 years old, Mariah knew she wanted to sing (and was getting tips from her mom, an opera singer and vocal coach). By the time she was in high school, she was skipping class to write songs, make demo tapes and sing backup in pursuit of her dream. No wonder she didn't last long at any of her many jobs: coat-checker, hair-salon sweeper, waitress. (Swift / Retna Ltd.)

50 Cent
You think the music business is tough? The rapper's first "job" was selling crack as a pre-teen in Queens, N.Y. He'd been arrested, shot (nine times) and stabbed before he got his big break, signing with Eminem's label. He knows firsthand about the violence most gangstas rap about, but has also lived the first part of his hit title, "Get Rich or Die Tryin'." (Paul Smith / Featureflash / Retna)
Source: MSN

Cameron Diaz's wild night out in Las Vegas with a mystery man

Cameron Diaz enjoyed a wild night out in Las Vegas with a mystery man on Saturday, October 27.


The Charlie's Angels star - who was most recently romantically linked to 'Wedding Crashers' actor Bradley Cooper - partied at the Mirage casino's Jet nightclub with a tall, dark handsome stranger.

A fellow clubber said: "Cameron was really letting her hair down, she was having a great time. They were knocking back drinks and going crazy on the dance floor.

"As the night went on they got more and more touchy feely."

The couple partied until 1am before heading to the hotel's craps tables to try their luck for a couple of hours.

Cameron, 35, was in town to film scenes for her new movie What Happens in Vegas with Ashton Kutcher.

On Sunday night (28 Oct 2007), she headed to hip restaurant Nobu for dinner with a group of friends.

Cameron split from long-term love Justin Timberlake in January and has since dated surfer Kelly Slater and magician Criss Angel.

Justin is now dating The Illusionist star Jessica Biel.

News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

Nicole Kidman's new movie upsets Christian groups

'Moulin Rouge' star, who is a practicing Catholic, stars in 'The Golden Compass', an adaptation of outspoken atheist Philip Pullman's first novel in the 'His Dark Materials' trilogy which many critics believe tells the story of a girl on a quest to kill God.


Bill Donohue, president of the Catholic League, said: "These books denigrate Christianity, thrash the Catholic Church and sell the virtues of atheism.

"They're intentionally watering down the most offensive element. I'm not really concerned about the movie, which looks fairly innocuous. The movie is made from the books.

"It's a deceitful, stealth campaign. Pullman is hoping his books will fly off the shelves at Christmas time."

New Line Cinema, who produce the movie, have made an effort to keep the religious themes to a minimum in the film, but Christian groups fear children who enjoy the film will read the books.

A New Line spokesman said: "'The Golden Compass' is an entertaining fantasy about love, courage, responsibility and freedom. We look forward to the December 7 opening."
said: "This must be the only film attacked in the same week for being too religious and for being anti-religious - and by people who haven't seen it.

"I have very friendly and happy relations with the filmmakers, and I'm very happy with what they are doing."

News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

Kentucky church prays for Britney Spears

Britney Spears might be having a hard time in Los Angeles but parishioners at a church in Lexington, Kentucky have written the troubled pop star notes of encouragement.


Senior pastor Jon Weece of Southland Christian Church has suggested they keep the 25-year-old singer, currently in a court battle to regain joint custody of her two sons, in their prayers.

"Take a few minutes and write a note to Britney Spears. No preaching. No criticizing. Just love.
As a church, let's love Britney the way Jesus loves her," Weece instructed his 8,000-strong congregation last month in both a weekly sermon and in a message posted on his blog.

The pastor claimed that he was driven to action by the negative coverage surrounding the divorced mother of two, her failing career and her increasingly convoluted custody battle.

"In the world's eyes, she's young, beautiful, talented, successful, yet her life is in shambles filled with bad relationships and devastating life choices," E! Online quoted Weece, as telling the members of his church.

"If she were your next-door neighbor in the same situation without the money and success, wouldn't you care about her problems? Wouldn't you pray for her and offer her support and encouragement?" he added.

However, not all parishioners supported the call.

"You're asking people to take a few minutes to write a note of encouragement, and you're actually collecting them and mailing them. Wouldn't it be better to spend that time offering support to someone who will actually be touched and encouraged by it?" said one.

Cindy Willison, Southland's communications director, said that the church is still gathering letters and trying to find out the best way to get the bunch of good words to Spears out in L.A.

"This is an opportunity for us to reach out to someone who probably doesn't have a lot of people in her life that care for her as a person," Willison told the Lexington Herald-Leader.

Lindsay Lohan pulls out of Vegas party to focus on sobriety

Lindsay Lohan has reportedly backed out of hosting a party in Las Vegas in order to focus on sobriety.


Until last week, the 21-year-old was scheduled to attend a New Year's Eve party at Vegas nightclub LAX.

However, on Oct 29, the actress’ rep said, "Lindsay will no longer be hosting New Year's Eve in Las Vegas."

Last week, a source revealed that Lindsay didn’t necessarily want to host but was contractually compelled due to the 21st birthday plans at LAX sister-club Pure that she had to cancel in July in order to go to rehab.

Meanwhile, Lohan's rep said that the actress, who has been out of rehab at Utah's Cirque Lodge for less than a month, "continues to focus on her work and sobriety."

However, a source revealed that the Vegas party plans have not been scrapped forever.

According to the source, the deal between Lohan and Pure remains in place, and "they will both wait for a day" when she can host an event for the company, perhaps even "another year from now.”

Halle Berry reveals her abusive childhood horrors

Actress Halle Berry has revealed her worst childhood memories that haunt her till date.


The Oscar winning actress, who is four months pregnant with boyfriend Gabriel Aubry’s child, has described how her father harassed her mother and sister.

"It was the worst year of my life," the Daily Mirror quoted her, as saying.

The actress said that the hard part for her was that she was never abused by her father.

She further revealed that she felt helpless at that age, and could do nothing to stop her father.

"The hard part for me was that he never abused me. I felt like a coward because I didn't do anything and couldn't do anything,” she said.

The 41-year-old grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, with mother Judith and father Jerome until they separated, when she was four.

The star revealed that her father moved back when she was 10 as her mother felt that her daughters needed a father figure.

Britney's 'kinky' confession in church to promote 'Blackout'

Britney Spears is likely to raise hackles with the Catholic Church, with a kinky "confession" photo-shoot to promote her new album 'Blackout'.


In the promotional photo-shoot, the 25-year old pop star will be seen in a very short skirt flashing her fishnet stocking-clad legs in the confessional box while a handsome priest listens to her repenting.

An insider has revealed that the 'Toxic' singer has made another 'very naughty' pose for the album in which she will be seen seducing the priest by sitting on his lap in the cubicle, reports the Daily Mirror.

Earlier it was reported that the troubled star was planning to host girls-only bonfire party at her California mansion, where she will set ablaze a dummy of ex hubby Kevin Federline, in order to vent her pain and grief.

However, a source said that Spears was throwing such kind of party for fun sake only.

Catherine Zeta-Jones denies claims she is anorexic

Catherine Zeta-Jones has denied claims she is anorexic, saying her slimmer figure is down to a healthy diet and exercise.


The Chicago actress, whose dramatic weight loss sparked concern when she appeared at the Beverly Hills' Hollywood Awards earlier this month, insists she isn't suffering from an eating disorder.

Catherine, whose curvy figure has previously attracted many admirers, said: "My husband Michael Douglas was laughing at me. He told me what people had said - that I'm anorexic. Do I look anorexic? How could I ever, ever be anorexic?

"The only reason I have lost a bit of weight is because I'm working out and not eating what I usually eat!"

The 38-year-old Welsh actress - who has two children, seven-year-old Dylan and four-year-old Carys, with Michael - also said Hollywood's obsession with weight is unhealthy.

She told People magazine at the Savannah Film Festival this weekend: "There are many women who are maybe a little fragile when it comes to their weight, and it becomes a huge issue."

News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

Heidi Klum doesn't regret revealing husband Seal's impressive 'package' secret

The supermodel - who recently confessed she was instantly attracted to the singer when they first met in 2004 because he was wearing a pair of tight fitting shorts - has continued to gush about his impressive physique.


Heidi said: "I know a lot of people talk about Seal's bicycle shorts, but it is the truth! That is what he was wearing the first time I met him and I was overwhelmed.

"He still wears them now, when he does all of his bicycling stuff or when he runs. He is quite athletic."

The Victoria's Secret model, who made the revelations when she and Seal appeared on Oprah Winfrey's talk show, claims Oprah casts a spell on guests to make them talk freely.

Heidi told People magazine: "I was very happy with how things went on Oprah. It is very strange, you trust her so much that you talk sometimes without realizing what you are saying.
"She has a spell in her eyeballs that when she looks at you, you are like, 'Yes.' "

The couple - who married in May 2005 - have two sons, two-year-old Henry and 11-month-old Johan. Heidi also has a three-year-old daughter, Leni, from a previous relationship with Formula One racing team boss Flavio Briatore.

News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

'Tons of sex' is the secret behind Kelly Brook's stunning figure

Strictly Come Dancing star Kelly Brook has revealed the secret behind her striking figure - "having tons of sex".


In an interview for the December issue of 'Company' magazine, the model and actress also disclosed that fighting and fantastic lighting keeping the passion in her relationship alive.

"Fight a lot. Even if you agree pretend you don't. It's about mentally stimulating each other as much as it is about the physical and emotional side," the Daily Mail quoted Brook, as saying.

"Fantastic lighting! When you redecorate, make sure everything's on dimmers. Either that or candlelight," she added.

However, she confessed that her looks didn't quite help her to find work.

"I have to audition for things. They don't just hand it to me because I look hot. I wouldn't keep working if it was just about looks. I'm 27 and there are tons of hotter girls who are 10 years younger than me," she said.

Brook also slammed girls who marry soccer stars for the moneyed lifestyle.

"I'm not saying all girls who shack up with footballers do. But I would hate to be a girl thinking, 'What am I going to do when I leave school?" she said.

"I've done it all on my own," she added.

Keith Urban dedicates his Aria award to wife Nicole Kidman

Keith Urban displayed his profound love for wife Nicole Kidman by dedicating his Aria award for the Best Country Album to the actress.


Referring to Kidman as his inspiration, Urban revealed that his album Love, Pain & The Whole Crazy Thing was recorded at their Nashville home.

"It (the album) would not exist without my wife” the Age quoted Urban, as saying.
“She is very prevalent in most of the songs," he added
Ruining the audience expectation to pieces, the actor denied the possibility of any duet from the couple.

The singer wholeheartedly expressed his desire to perform with John Butler, who picked up the Aria award for best Blues And Roots Album and best Independent Release for the Grand National award at the ceremony.

Accepting Urban’s invitation to join hands, the John Butler Trio hit ‘Funky Tonight’ and were both full of praise for one another.

“It was what I have been looking forward to more than anything. It was a blast," Butler said.
"I hope I get to play with him more than just tonight.,” he added.

Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt top 2007's 'Most Popular Celebrity Costume' for Halloween list

People looking for last-minute Halloween costume should turn to Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, for the couple have topped the list of 2007's Most Popular Celebrity Costume for Halloween.


A survey of 600 Americans by Captain Morgan/Kelton Research named the globe-trotting couple this year's top celebrity costume, reports Usmagazine.com.

Troubled pop star Britney Spears and ex-hubby Kevin Federline landed in second place for Halloween garb.

The former couple was followed by ex-US President Bill Clinton and his presidential hopeful wife, Hillary.

Others on the list include scientology scion Tom Cruise and wife Katie Holmes; British soccer stud David Beckham and wife Victoria; and U.S. Prez George Bush and first lady Barbara.

"Tonight Show" funny guy Jay Leno was the top pick in the late-night host category.

Of the daytime show host options, Oprah Winfrey took the honors, followed by Ellen DeGeneres.

Royal blackmailer claims he met Prince William and Harry

A man who tried to extort 50,000 pounds from a member of the British royal family over an alleged sex tape has claimed that he has met Princes William and Harry.


Ian Strachan, 30, who is facing trial over a plot to blackmail the royal family member, bragged to his legal team that he met the two royals as well as Zara Phillips.

The Scot-born businessman was arrested together with 40-year-old Sean McGuigan when police raided a London hotel as they allegedly showed footage of an aide snorting cocaine and bragging about a sex act with the royal, the Mirror reported.

Strachan and MCGuigan claimed the tape showed the unnamed individual engaging in oral sex and insinuated that the royal had supplied cocaine to an aide.

The video footage is also said to contain a number of unsubstantiated allegations against other members of the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II.

The pair was charged with blackmail and are in custody.
Scotland Yard said: "Investigations continue."

Kevin Federline fears Britney will kill herself and harm their kids

Kevin Federline fears that her ex-wife Britney Spears would kill herself and harm their two sons, the rapper’s former girlfriend has revealed.


relation with Spears, but he confided his worries with Nicole Narain.

Federline told Nicole, "Britney's behavior has already put our kids at risk and I can't let things get any worse. She's lost all grasp on reality and is dragging the children through hell. Her mood swings are now so wild that I live in fear of getting a call telling me that she has killed herself.”

"I can't allow her to have custody because I seriously believe she could harm our sons. I've shared her life and I know she's capable of anything with pills and a few drinks inside her."

Narain revealed that Federline had once caught Spears breast-feeding their son, Jayden, while she was drunk on vodka.

At the time, the rapper told her, “I'd see her walking around the house guzzling vodka and Coke and looking very tipsy. Then a few moments later, I saw her pick up Jayden and start breast-feeding him. That sent me up the wall. I yelled at her, ‘If you really wanna drink then make sure the baby gets bottled milk, not yours.’

"I was terrified she was poisoning my son. But she wouldn't listen. She never would. She treated me like one of her employees who bowed to her every whim.

"She screamed back, ‘You can't talk to me that way!' But I had to stand up for my children as well as myself.

"Two weeks later she filed for divorce. I only found out when I heard it as a news item on the radio. I felt she was just trying to teach me a lesson for telling her off about the breast-feeding incident. But when I called she kicked off another row and screamed, ‘You're nothing without me'. I never wanted a divorce but now I knew there was no option,” she added.

Nicole said that the rapper was fighting for his kids, as he is really scared of Spears’ bizarre lifestyle.

"Kevin is battling for his kids as he genuinely fears they are at risk,” News of the World quoted her, as saying.

A gloomy night out for Prince Harry and girlfriend Chelsea Davy

A pleasurable night out ended in gloom for Prince Harry and his girlfriend Chelsy Davy.


The couple were enjoying themselves at London club Amika on Oct 26, but fellow guests revealed that Chelsy looked extremely sad and teary-eyed when they left.

The 23-year-old royal, who ran up a whopping 3,500 pounds bar bill, even sat beside their driver as they headed home - leaving Chelsy alone in the back of the car.

Friends say that the 21-year-old Chelsy, who is taking a two-year postgraduate degree in politics at Leeds University, is intolerably homesick and pining for her family and friends in Cape Town, South Africa.

The business studies graduate, who has been dating Harry for three years, is said to be so miserable in Leeds that she has returned to London to see her boyfriend most weekends since term began in September.

"Harry said he was treating Chelsy to a night out because she was down from Leeds. They turned up at about midnight and seemed to be having fun, but Chelsy wasn't her usual vibrant self,” the Daily Mail quoted an eyewitness, as saying.

"She seemed really upset at one point and Harry started stroking her hand. Chelsy looked like she was almost in tears.

"Perhaps it was because Harry was with his friends and wasn't paying Chelsy enough attention.
At one stage she seemed positively fed-up and said she wanted to leave. It was at about 2am, when Harry was well on his way. He insisted on staying.

"At one point he stood up to have a quiet word with Chelsy and gave her a kiss. When they did eventually leave at 3.30am, Chelsy looked thoroughly miserable. Harry was also pretty stony-faced when they were driven out of an underground car park in which the club has an entrance for VIPs,” the eyewitness added.

According to friends, Chelsy is finding the transition to life in the UK a challenge.

"She keeps talking about how much she misses her gap year and all the amazing places she visited. She really misses all her friends and family in Cape Town and says that she had a great time when she was last there,” a friend said.

"She's also finding the climate a bit of a culture shock and is pining for the sunshine. Leeds is quite a dreary place compared with Cape Town. She really wants to go back home and can't wait until Christmas,” the friend added.

Is red-faced Renee Zellweger overdoing her beauty treatments?

When Renee Zellweger arrived red-faced at the premiere of her new film ‘Bee Movie’, she left her fans wondering that the petite actress might be overdoing her beauty treatments.


The 38-year old star appeared with ruddy raw cheeks and forehead at the event.

Zellweger is known to follow harsh beauty routines which includes-‘facial sandblasting’, before she makes a red-carpet appearance, reports the Daily Mail.

Before every premiere, the Jerry Maguire star undergoes a three-hour process of ‘sandblasting’, which is designed to rid her skin of blemishes and keep her looking young and fresh.

The treatment, which costs 145 pounds, includes applying of special oxygen and milk facemask dubbed a ‘pre-extraction oxygen wrap’, and the face is covered in two layers of cling film.

When it is removed an oxygen spray containing vitamins is sprayed on the face and neck. It purports to kill surface bacteria to help keep skin clear and blemish-free.

Then comes the hour-long "sandblasting", in which aluminium oxide crystals are sprayed on to the face to reduce age spots and sun damage, and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.

However, beauty therapists have warned that the process could leave the skin red and traumatized for up to a day later.

It is said that Zellweger loves the dramatic effects that the "sandblast" facial provides.

Kate Middleton will have to wait till 2009 to be Prince William's bride

Though Prince William’s girlfriend Kate Middleton has gained the royal seal of approval, she will have to wait till 2009 to be the young royal's bride.


Since rekindling their relationship, the couple has fueled speculations that the talks of a royal wedding are not that far away.

But sources close to William, a second lieutenant in the Household Cavalry, say that although the couple are dating again, Kate will have to wait until at least till July 2009 to marry him.

"William is very happy at the moment and everything is great with him and Kate, but he's aware that now their romance is back on track all the speculation about a Royal wedding will start up again. He and Kate have had a lot of discussions about their future together," the Daily Mail quoted a friend, as saying.

"William has told Kate he is in no hurry to get engaged and that while he does want to get married, he doesn't want to marry just yet. If William has his way there probably won't be a wedding until July 2009 when he finishes all his military training commitments.

"As long as Wills behaves himself, Kate will be happy to wait. She's young and in love, but also not in any hurry to get married," the friend added.

According to friends, Kate, who plans to quit her job as a buyer at High Street chain Jigsaw, has focussed all her attention on William since getting back together.

"Kate played a blinder during their separation, with William eating out of her hand at the end. Now they are back together her world revolves around him," another friend said.

Oct 27, 2007

Britney Spears' Mom To Write Book On Parenting

Britney Spears' mother, Lynne Spears, has revealed plans to write a book about raising her family in the limelight called "Pop Culture Mom: A Real Story of Fame and Family in a Tabloid World". The timing is peculiar as her daughter, Britney, is being questioned on her own parenting skills.

Lynne Spears' book is currently slated for Mother's Day 2008 release, and is being published by Thomas Nelson Inc., a Christian book publisher.

The publisher declined to make any further comments on the impending book, stating: "That is all we're releasing at this time. I have not seen a manuscript so I cannot comment on the content."

One has to wonder if Momma Spears has the best intentions in mind, considering Britney's troubles and public meltdowns.

It's splitsville for Emma Watson and rugby hunk beau

Harry Potter star Emma Watson has broken up with rugby hunk beau Tom Ducker.


Watson’s friend has revealed that the actress was “distraught” over her split with Ducker.

“She is very upset. He was her first love,” The Sun quoted the friend, as saying.

A spokesman for the teenage actress has revealed that the couple broke up because the magic was lost in their relationship.

“They just drifted apart as teenagers do. Emma is now just concentrating on her A-levels and the new film,” spokesman said.

The couple started dating in the beginning of this year and their romance went from strength to strength as she whisked him to the French Riviera for a holiday this summer.

The actress’ pals claimed that she dumped Ducker after seeing pictures on a website of him with a string of teenagers at a party.

However, some insiders said that the pair had already split when the photos were taken.

Jennifer Lopez persists with her loud silence on pregnancy

J Lo's mother has confirmed that her star daughter is expecting her first child with hubby Marc Anthony. But, Lopez hasn't come out in open to either deny or confirm the stories.

According to reports, J Lo's mother has confirmed that her star daughter is expecting her first child with husband Marc Anthony. But, Lopez hasn't come out in open to either deny or confirm the stories.

Alluding to the frequent and numerous past reports of her pregnancy the singer said that the media has made her a mother almost 30 times now.
"This will be my 30th child. You know I have always wanted that," the Daily Mail quoted her, as saying.

Regarding reports of her undergoing IVF she said "not necessarily, no".

During her high-profile affair with actor Ben Affleck, the singer-actress had said that she wishes to bring up her kids on high-carb diet like the way she was brought up.

"I've planned my children's diets. You start thinking about your own food longings and how it would be helpful for them to eat more vegetable," she then said.

Oct 26, 2007

The sartorially challenged Vanessa Hudgens

Vanessa Hudgens' attire at Frederick's of Hollywood 2008 Spring Collection Fashion Show October 24 at Hollywood Palladium, Hollywood, CA made us cringe.


She became famous when she decided to shed her clothes but now that she is famous she needs to pay attention to them. Having seen what is inside, like her fans we will now look critically at the outside.

Wow ness, the wild hairdo and busy colors on your dress are fighting each other for attention. Let us know who wins.

News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

No ruling today in Britney Spears' custody case

The hearing in the child custody dispute case between pop star Britney Spears and ex Kevin Federline ended Friday, October 26, without a ruling. Britney's visitation rights were extended over the weekend and a ruling is expected sometime Monday or Tuesday.


Today's inconclusive hearing, which for the first time was attended by both Britney and Kevin, spanned two sessions. Also present was a lawyer for the California Department of Children and Family Services.

Britney arrived with cousin and former assistant Alli Sims wearing a dark dress, shades and her signature high boots.

Once the hearing started the media was asked to move out.

Before the start of the morning session Kevin Federline’s lawyer, Mark Vincent Kaplan, requested that Britney's deposition be videotaped to record not just what she says but the way she says it. At her last hearing, while talking with Commissioner Gordon, Britney chose her words carefully, such that they appeared sincere on paper, but laced them with heavy sarcasm.

LA Superior Court Commissioner Scott M. Gordon turned down the request to preclude a media leak of the videotape.

It is believed the hearing focused on the adverse report by the court appointed parenting coach.
According to TMZ Britney left the courtroom as many as three times during the course of the hearing to go to the bathroom. She looked distraught and according to one observer was crying.

When an Extra reporter asked Britney how she was doing Britney shouted, "Eat it, lick it, snort it, [bleep] it!" and walked back into the courtroom crying.

News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

Katie Holmes turned down for a role in Hollywood adaptation of 'Nine'

Katie Holmes is devastated after being turned down for a role in a new musical film, it has been claimed.

The former 'Dawson's Creek' star - who last year married Tom Cruise and gave birth to his daughter Suri - was desperate to appear in the movie adaptation of hit Broadway show 'Nine', but director Rob Marshall reportedly decided she wasn't right for the role.

A source said: "Katie desperately wanted to be in 'Nine'. It would have taken her back to the singing and dancing she did when she was growing up.

"She thought working with Rob would be a career breakthrough. She was heartbroken when she didn't get the part."

Chicago director Marshall's new project tells the story of famous film director Guido Contini and the women in his life.

Catherine Zeta-Jones - who won an Oscar for her part in Chicago - has been cast as Guido's muse, Sophia Loren will play his mother, while Tom Cruise's ex-girlfriend Penelope Cruz is to play his mistress.

Tom's ex-wife Nicole Kidman was also tipped to appear in the movie, along with Gwyneth Paltrow, Renée Zellweger and Dame Judi Dench.

Since Katie, 28, married Tom it has been claimed he has to approve her scripts before she auditions.

News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

Kate Hudson's divorce finalized

Kate Hudson is officially back on the sexy singles’ list with her divorce from rocker Chris Robinson formally coming through.


The divorce was signed by a Los Angeles Superior Court judge on Thursday, Oct 25, officially ending the couple’s marriage.

Hudson and Robinson married in Aspen on New Year's Eve 2000 after dating for about a year.
However, they split in August last year when Hudson fell for her You, Me and Dupree co-star Owen Wilson.

Robinson, 40, then filed for divorce in November 2006 citing irreconcilable differences, reports E! Online.

The couple filed for shared custody of their three-year-old son, Ryder. However details of their custody arrangement and property division have not been disclosed.

Hudson recently told Harper's Bazaar that she and her ex hubby try to maintain a friendly relationship for the sake of their son.

"For both Chris and me, our main focus is, and was, Ryder. And happy parents, happy baby. Therefore, I love Chris to pieces," she said.

Victoria Beckham drives staff at Barneys New York nuts!

Victoria, a.k.a. Posh Spice buys lots of stuff at Barneys New York but her habit of returning altered clothes is raising hackles at the store.


source close to Victoria, a.k.a. Posh Spice has revealed that though the singer buys lots of stuff, it’s her habit of returning altered clothes that is raising hackles at the store.

“She buys so much in every department,” Usmagazine.com quoted the source, as saying.

“But she demands it all be special-ordered. And then she returns tons of it -- and they can’t put her altered clothes on the sales floor,” the source added.

However, Barneys representative said, “I have heard nothing of the sort.”

Victoria, 33, is a size 00 and allegedly has a 23" waist - the same size as the average seven-year-old. She is currently on a strict diet, along with the rest of the Spice Girls, to ensure she looks her best on their reunion world tour.

Victoria is said to eat a low carbohydrate, high protein diet which mainly consists of sushi, edamame beans and quinoa.

Poll finds Britney Spears one of the Unsexiest Women Alive

Britney Spears' frequent show of skin and more notwithstanding men find her one of the Unsexiest Woman Alive. Topping the list of celebrities who don't turn on men is 'Sex and the City' actress Sarah Jessica Parker.


The 'Sex and the City' actress, who is most famous for her role as sex columnist Carrie Bradshaw in the hit US TV show, was given the dubious honor in the online poll by men's website maxim.com.

In a scathing attack on the 42-year-old actress, Maxim.com writers - who compiled the poll - likened Sarah Jessica to famous US racehorses Barbaro and Secretariat and insisted they would rather get up close and personal with her 'Sex and the City' co-star Chris Noth.

One Maxim.com writer said: "How the hell did this Barbaro-faced broad manage to be the least sexy woman in a group of very unsexy women and still star on a show with "sex" in the title?
"Pull your skirt down, Secretariat, we would rather ride your co-star Chris Noth!"

Troubled British singer Amy Winehouse - whose beehive hair and prominent eyeliner has been copied by teenage girls worldwide - finished in second place.

Another Maxim.com writer revealed: "When we first heard this chick boast about her reluctance to go to rehab we thought, now there is a girl we can party with! But upon beholding her openly hemorrhaging translucent skin, rat’s nest mane and lashes that look more like surgically attached bats, we were the ones screaming, 'Nooo, nooo, nooo!' "

'Grey's Anatomy' star Sandra Oh is in third place, while 49-year-old "menopausal" singer Madonna finished fourth and was ridiculed for her adoption of Malawi boy David Banda.

The survey said of Madonna: "Madonna traded pioneering sexuality for, like other old Jewish women, self-righteous bellyaching and rapid postnuptial deterioration.

"Combine a Paris Hilton-like pet accessorizing fetish - only for dirt-poor foreign babies - with a mug that looks Euro-sealed to her skull, and you've got Willem Dafoe with hot flashes."

Britney Spears - whose behavior has spiraled out of control this year with her wild partying, drug taking, shaving her head and bizarre performance at the MTV Video Music Awards - rounded up top five.

One Maxim.com contributor claimed: "Britney has lost the ability to perform, but gained two kids, two useless ex-husbands, and about 23 pounds of pudge."

Maxim.com's Five Unsexiest Women Alive poll:
  1. Sarah Jessica Parker
  2. Amy Winehouse
  3. Sandra Oh
  4. Madonna
  5. Britney Spears
News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

Carrie Underwood is 'very classy' says Chace Crawford

Gossip Girl actor Chace Crawford admits to dating country music singer Carrie Underwood but stops short of acknowledging they are a couple.


"I don't know about that. We're just hanging, having a good time, dating around. It's good," he told OK! at the Reebok Springs Into Style event in NYC October 24 when asked if they were officially a couple.

As to how he hooked up with Carrie despite their diverse showbiz backgrounds, Chace said, "Through friends of friends."

"I love country music and she's very classy," he added

Carrie, 24, was spotted kissing Chace, 22, Friday, October 12 at NYC club Marquee sparking rumors of a new celebrity romance.

The next evening, the pair enjoyed a romantic dinner at Mario Batali's Del Posto restaurant and later a few drinks at Soho Grand.

Carrie, who won the fourth season of American Idol, has been linked to Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo since late last year. However, late in May The National Enquirer reported that Romo had called a "timeout" on the relationship until the end of football season.
Carrie has steadfastly maintained that she and Tony were friends.

News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

Rwanda will have to wait for Paris Hilton

Paris Hilton's trip to the east-central African nation of Rwanda, organized by the Playing for Good Foundation and announced in September as part of the heiress' post jail wow to make her life more meaningful, has been postponed.


Due to the restructuring of the Playing for Good Foundation, the philanthropic trip to Rwanda that the foundation had previously planned with Paris Hilton has been postponed," the organization announced Thursday.

"Paris has been a loyal and gracious supporter of Playing For Good but the foundation has to regrettably reschedule this trip. Playing for Good would like to thank Ms. Hilton for her generosity and her continued support of this initiative and is looking forward to rescheduling the trip with her at a later time."

Paris Hilton announced her plans to visit Rwanda in September saying she wants to spread awareness about the African country which was the scene of genocide in 1994.

"I'll be going in November, after I get back from filming my movie," she said
"There's so much need in that area, and I feel like if I go, it will bring more attention to what people can do to help," said the concerned consummate socialite.

The movie that Paris was referring to was the horror film Repo! The Genetic Opera a clip of which she showed at the at the recent horror themed Scream 2007 awards put together by Spike TV.

The movie plot, set in 2056, runs on an entrepreneur who creates genetically perfect organs for people in need but turns to sinister ways to repose them when the recipient can't afford to pay for the organ.

News Copyright © Sawf News. May not be reproduced without explicit written permission

Britney Spears' Hit and Run Case Dismissed

Britney Spears got a breather from the courts Thursday when her hit and run case was dismissed but her troubles are far from over with a custody hearing coming up and a charge pending for driving without a valid California license.


Mercedes-Benz station wagon that Britney hit on August 6 in a San Fernando Valley parking lot, "is very sympathetic toward Britney and hopes the best for her," told Spears' attorney, Michael Flanagan.
Robard-Rifkin was reportedly paid approximately $1000 for damages her car incurred.

Meanwhile, Britney, having pleaded not guilty to the charge of driving without a valid California driving license, is not off the hook yet.

Britney got herself a California license on October 2nd but the L.A. City Attorneys don’t think it compensates for not having one at the time she was charged.

Flanagan said today that the judge wants to place her on probation for the violation for no less than 12 months.

Oct 25, 2007

Hollywood Halloween How-To

By Ben Silverman


'Tis the season to be scary, but Halloween isn't just a happy-go-lucky fright fest. Choosing the right outfit can be a stressful affair. Do you go big with full-face makeup, unwieldy props and a terribly itchy wig? Or perhaps you prefer to play it safe with plastic vampire teeth and a lame skeleton shirt? Sadly, there are no right answers to such costuming conundrums.But here's a thought: Why waste another Halloween as a boring, anonymous werewolf when you can show off your creative side by impersonating your favorite celeb? After all, the stars come out at night. In honor of the horrific holiday, here are 13 unlucky suggestions to help you dress for success.

Britney Spears
Oops! The deposed queen of pop did it again -- and again -- in 2007, turning what could have been a comeback year into a series of unfortunate events. But provided you don't fear the clippers, the ex-Mrs. Federline makes the perfect pop-culture costume. Shave the locks, squeeze into an ill-fitting black sparkly bikini, strap on a headset and half-heartedly dance your way through the night. For added oomph, consider holding an empty bottle of bourbon in one hand and a baby doll in the other. Remember: She's not that innocent.


Brangelina
Don't take us too literally here; chances are you possess neither Brad's stunning eyes nor Angelina's amazing lips to truly pull this one off, and if you do, you probably could care less about making a Halloween statement because everyone's already fawning over you. But the other 99 percent of us can still enjoy an evening of shrieks and giggles by pulling a trick out of the old 1980s gimmick box: One side of your face is Brad Pitt; the other side, Angelina Jolie. If that's too vague, hammer the point home by toting around a bunch of dolls swaddled in the flags of various Third World countries.
Kid Rock and Tommy Lee
The two former Mr. Pam Andersons might not see eye to eye, but they definitely make a perfect pair for the Halloween happenings at your local frat house. Kid's signature style -- scummy tank-top undershirt, a pair of baggy pants and a pimpin' fedora -- shouldn't set you back more than a few bucks. The same goes for the Tommy Lee look, which simply requires a sleeve of fake tattoos, a pair of drumsticks and a sock stuffed down your pants. Just choreograph a few fistfights and pray that party security doesn't haul you both off to the clink.
Did he get whacked, or did he just get an order of onion rings? The debate over the fate of everyone's favorite bulky boss quietly rages on. Take this Halloween as your opportunity to make a statement. A statement that the not-so-dapper don pulled a "cleaver" and got killed. Your zombie Tony costume would include a custom-made "Bada bing, bada BANG!" T-shirt along with plenty of fake blood and decomposing flesh. And feel free to set the record straight by stringing a sign around your neck proclaiming that you've "stopped believing."
Miss Teen USA contestant Lauren Caitlin Upton
The South Carolinian became an overnight Internet sensation with her mystifying answer as to why many Americans can't find the United States on a world map, so suck in that gut and squeeze back into your prom dress for this surefire crowd-pleaser. Top it off with a cheesy tiara, a bouquet of long-stemmed roses and a bag filled with tiny globes to hand out to passersby. Halloween is all about pageantry, after all.
The stars of the biggest boxing match of 2007 have gone on to bigger and better things, at least in terms of sheer entertainment value. Mayweather is currently prepping for an upcoming title defense by practicing his footwork on "Dancing With the Stars," while the Golden Boy is making the inbox attachment rounds for his spectacular turn as a cross-dressing Golden Girl. A sporty couple could bring the two back into the ring with some clever costuming: Boxing gloves, a tuxedo, some fishnets and a few bruised eyes should do the trick.
Might as well jump on the comeback bandwagon and dress up as the newly reminted Van Halen. Actually, a family of four could pull this riff off flawlessly. Dad and older brother can go as guitarist Eddie and drummer Alex, any teen can pick up the slack as Eddie's son, Wolfgang, and mom just needs to grow a little hair on her chest to play a convincing Diamond Dave. Got a little sister? Give her a curly wig, a virgin margarita and a bad fake tan and presto: Sammy Hagar!
Let the wee ones bother with capes and masks; those wishing to pursue a superhuman Halloween need look no further than the sexy homecoming queen of "Heroes" for inspiration. Cheerleader outfits are a dime a dozen, but you'll need a few extra items to show off Claire Bear's regenerative abilities. Try a fake knife (the plastic kind with the blade that pops back into the handle) and a tube of red disappearing ink for an instant party power play.
Emmy-winning actress America Ferrera is hardly ugly, but that shouldn't stop you from gawking your way through Halloween in homage of her awkward, lovable character. Unless you have seriously solid dental insurance, you should score some fake braces at a seasonal specialty store. Next stop: grandma's attic for some outdated duds. Finish the piece off with a cheap pair of Betty's signature red plastic glasses (try Goodwill) and your embarrassing evening is ready to go.
Homer Simpson It's not exactly an innovative choice because the bumbling Simpson patriarch has been a television staple for the past two decades, but with a hit feature film tucked under his poor, sagging belt, Homer is ripe for reinvention. You can't swing a radioactive cat in a Halloween store without hitting a Homer mask, though you can always go au naturale by painting your face a bright, pukey yellow. Finish it off with a crisp white shirt, straight blue pants, a stuffed pig and a box of fresh pumpkin donuts. Mmmmm … scary donut …
Hannah Montana and Billy Ray Cyrus Leave it to Disney to revitalize the career of Billy Ray Cyrus by featuring both the country crooner and his arguably more talented daughter Miley Cyrus in this wildly popular children's show. Though we're sad to see Billy Ray's epic mullet disappear in favor of a hipper, Bon Jovi-esque 'do, feel free to bring it back for this father/daughter ensemble. And chances are your little girl is dying to dress like Hannah -- just manage those expectations (cubic zirconium is just as shiny as diamonds, honey) and you'll be the talk of the middle school Halloween soiree.

Larry Craig

The senator from Idaho quickly became America's dirtiest politician when he made an unseemly pit stop in an airport bathroom stall, a decision that could prove costly to the GOP but offers a timely costume opportunity for shy Halloween wallflowers. Just encase yourself in a few sturdy sheets of cardboard, scrawl the words "Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport -- Tricks and treats welcome!" on the outside, and glue a fake hand to the bottom, palm facing upward, of course. And if anyone asks, it wasn't you in the stall.


Amy Winehouse

It's been quite a year for the troubled British chanteuse. Powered by two catchy singles, her album "Back to Black" seared up the charts and shot the soulful singer into the blinding light of tabloid scrutiny -- not exactly where you want to be if you've got issues with booze and heroin. Luckily for the rest of us, her distinctive beehive and penchant for problems makes fine fodder for an ironic Halloween outfit. Pile up your hair, slap on enough eye makeup to make Tammy Faye blush and pass out 12-Step pamphlets to anyone sloshing a drink. Someone's gotta go to rehab …

Source: MSN