Star Struck

Important Notice From StartSampling

2009-04-30T14:35:00.002-05:00

Effective Monday, May 4th, we will no longer be updating Star Struck. We have enjoyed featuring this section and hope you did too! This decision was made due to low readership and participation and we want to put our energy into a section that will be more valuable to you as a member of StartSampling. If you have any suggestions or ideas as to other content you would like to see on StartSampling, please feel free to leave your comments in this section or e-mail us at support@startsampling.com. We value your membership and want to continue to offer content on our site that will allow our members to participate in the sampling community you have helped us create.

Sincerely,

StartSampling Staff

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAY SPOTLIGHT

2009-04-29T16:54:00.005-05:00

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS

APRIL

26 – Tom Welling – 32 – Putnam Valley, NY
26 – Carol Brunett – 76 – San Antonio, TX
27 – Casey Kasem – 76 – Detroit, MI
28 – Penelope Cruz – 35 – Madrid, SPAIN
28 – Jay Leno – 59 – Andover, MA
28 – Ann Margret – 68 – Jamtlands Ian, SWEDEN
29 – Uma Thurman – 39 – Boston, MA
29 – Michelle Pfeiffer – 51 – Santa Ana, CA
29 – Jerry Seinfeld – 55 – Brooklyn, NY
30 – Willie Nelson – 76 – Abbott, TX
30 – Cloris Leachman – 83 – Des Moines, IA

MAY

>01 – Tim McGraw – 42 – Delhi, LA
02 – Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson – 47 – Hayward, CA
02 – Engelbert Humperdinck – 73 – Madras, India

Trivia

ANN-MARGRET

Ann-Margret and her mother moved to the United States in November 1946, and her father took her to Radio City Music Hall on the day they arrived. They settled just outside of Chicago in Wilmette, IL. She became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 1949. She took her first dance lessons at the Marjorie Young School of Dance, and showed natural ability from the start, easily mimicking all the steps. Her parents were supportive and her mother handmade all her costumes. Ann-Margret's mother worked as a funeral parlour receptionist after her husband suffered a severe injury on his job. While a teenager, Ann-Margret appeared on the Morris B. Sachs Amateur Hour, Don McNeill's Breakfast Club and Ted Mack’s Amateur Hour.

Through high school, she continued to star in theatricals and she attended Northwestern University, where she was a member of the sorority Kappa Alpha Theta but did not graduate. As part of a group known as the "Suttletones," they performed at the Mist, a Chicago nightclub, and went to Las Vegas for a promised club date which fell through after they arrived. They plugged ahead to Los Angeles and, through agent Georgia Lund, secured club dates in Newport Beach and Reno, where Ann-Margret had a chance encounter with Marilyn Monroe, who was on location for The Misfits. Monroe noticed the striking girl in a crowd of onlookers, then chatted privately with her, offering her encouragement.

The group finally arrived at The Dunes in Las Vegas, which also headlined Tony Bennett and Al Hirt at that time. George Burns heard of her performance and she auditioned for his annual holiday show, in which she and Burns did a soft-shoe routine. Variety proclaimed, "George Burns has a gold mine in Ann-Margret...she has a definite style of her own, which can easily guide her to star status". She has been married to Roger Smith since May 8, 1967.

SEAN PENN

2009-04-29T15:56:00.003-05:00

In the papers, filed by Penn on Friday, April 24 in Marin County, Calif., and obtained by Access Hollywood, the actor cites “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split.

Penn is also seeking to “terminate the court’s jurisdiction to award spousal support” to Wright.

According to Penn’s attorney, Mindy Ross, the actor did not file for divorce, but rather a “legal separation.”

While the court can still rule on details including division of property and custody of children, the couple is still legally married, Ross noted.

Wright now has 30 days to also file a legal separation of marriage, or she can opt to file for divorce, which would then be granted, according to Ross.

DONALD TRUMP

2009-04-29T15:37:00.002-05:00

NBC says Donald Trump will be firing more stars next year when “Celebrity Apprentice” returns for another round.

The network is announcing a ninth season for the reality series, scheduled to air in Spring 2010.
That’s when 16 new celebrities will meet and compete in business-oriented challenges. All but one of the rivals will hear mogul Trump tell them, “You’re fired!”

JOHN TRAVOLTA

2009-04-29T15:29:00.003-05:00

Two people accused of attempting to extort millions from the Travolta family following the death of their son Jett, pled not guilty in a Bahamian court on Tuesday, TMZ reported.

Former Bahamian Senator Pleasant Bridgewater, who was charged with abatement to extort, and paramedic Tarino Lightbourne, who was charged with attempted extortion, were arraigned together, according to E! Online.

Various previous reports have alleged that the two claimed to have embarrassing information related to Jett’s death. They allegedly were seeking $25 million from the grieving family.

BRITNEY SPEARS

2009-04-29T15:19:00.002-05:00

A judge has granted Britney Spears a three year restraining order against former manager Sam Lutfi and an attorney, Jon Eardley.

Judge Aviva Bobb granted the order on Wednesday afternoon in Los Angeles Superior Court after deliberating for most of the day on the issue.

Attorneys for Lutfi and Eardley had appeared in court on Wednesday morning to argue against the temporary restraining order against the men being made permanent for a three-year period.

CHRIS NOTH

2009-04-29T15:05:00.003-05:00

After rumors of contract spats and reports of scheduling problems, Mr. Big will reportedly return for the “Sex and The City” sequel.

According to E! Online, Sarah Jessica Parker confirmed that Carrie and Mr. Big, played by actor Chris Noth, will once again reunite on the big screen in the sequel that series creator Michael Patrick King is currently writing. As for details on the couple’s storyline, it’s still a mystery to even the series star.

LAUREN CONRAD

2009-04-29T15:01:00.002-05:00

After much debate over whether Lauren Conrad would actually be leaving “The Hills,” MTV has finally announced they are moving forward without their star.

In a statement promoting this fall’s new episodes of the MTV reality show, the network confirmed LC would no longer be a part of the cast.

“Lauren has moved on,” the statement read. “But Heidi, Audrina, Spencer, Brody, Stephanie, Lo and Justin Bobby will be back as the drama continues

"X-Men Origins: Wolverine"

2009-04-29T14:54:00.004-05:00

The Mexico City premiere of “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” has been postponed due to the outbreak of swine flu, which has claimed the lives of over 100 people in the area.

Twentieth Century Fox has yet to announce a make-up date for the premiere, which was originally scheduled for Wednesday.

The effects of the swine flu outbreak have been felt across Mexico, as authorities have asked the nation’s residents to remain inside their house. Schools across the country have also been canceled until May 6, according to the Washington Post.

"Britain's Got Talent"

2009-04-29T14:49:00.001-05:00

While the international fever for Susan Boyle shows no signs of cooling off, the competition show the Scottish singer is in "Britain's Got Talent” just introduced a new contender, who just might nip at her heels.

Hollie Steel, a 10-year-old school girl, became the newest “Talent” darling during the audition round on the UK talent show, which is currently narrowing its field of contenders.

Dressed in a tutu and leotard, the pint-sized contestant thrilled judges Piers Morgan, Amanda Holden and actress Kelly Brook, after singing “I Could’ve Danced All Night” from “My Fair Lady.”

HOWIE MANDEL

2009-04-29T14:41:00.002-05:00

In the first ever Game Show Awards, Howie Mandel will be making face time not only as the host, but also as a nominee.

GSN announced today that Howie will host the award show, which rewards excellence in the game show genre, and is set to premiere June 6 on GSN.

Howie is nominated in the best game show host category for his work on “Deal or No Deal,” and can also been seen on his new NBC hidden camera show, “Howie Do It.”

JAY LENO

2009-04-29T14:39:00.003-05:00

More than 2,000 people picked up tickets Monday to next month’s free comedy show by Jay Leno, who is bringing his act to southwest Ohio as a morale booster.

Wilmington, a city of 12,000, has drawn national attention as a vivid example of the economic struggles of small U.S. communities during the recession, and both presidential candidates discussed its plight last year.

More than 2,000 people picked up tickets Monday to next month’s free comedy show by Jayt Leno, who is bringing his act to southwest Ohio as a morale booster.

People in shorts, sunhats and baseball caps sat in lawn chairs or on the ground to form lines that stretched out from four entrances to the Roberts Centre, where Leno will hold his Comedy Stimulus show May 10.

SNOOP DOGG

2009-04-29T14:25:00.005-05:00

Snoop Dogg says he didn’t hit a man with his microphone during a 2005 concert melee.

The rapper, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, took the stand Monday afternoon in a civil trial. He is being sued by Richard Monroe Jr., who claims he was seriously hurt by Broadus and his security guards after he came onstage during a show near Seattle.

Broadus told jurors he didn’t hit Monroe with a brass knuckle microphone as the man contends. Monroe testified Friday he thought he had been invited onstage. He sued the “Gin and Juice” rapper in 2006, seeking millions.

JENNIFER HUDSON

2009-04-29T14:19:00.004-05:00

Oscar and Grammy-winning singer Jennifer Hudson has given her first hometown concert since her mother, brother and 7-year-old nephew were murdered in Chicago last year.

Hudson sang Saturday night at a theater in Chicago’s McCormick Place. She dedicated the song “You Pulled Me Through” to relatives in the audience and brought four cousins on stage to sing with her.

The bodies of her mother and brother were found Oct. 24 at their home on Chicago’s South Side. The body of nephew Julian King was found days later on the city’s West Side.

BEATRICE ARTHUR

2009-04-29T10:31:00.003-05:00

Beatrice Arthur, the tall, deep-voiced actress, died on Saturday at the age of 86 after a battle with cancer.

Her razor-sharp delivery of comedy lines made her a TV star in the hit shows "Maude" and "The Golden Girls." Sh won a Tony Award for the musical "Mame."

Arthur died peacefully at her Los Angeles home with her family at her side, family spokesman Dan Watt said.

Arthur was born Bernice Frankel in New York City in 1922. When she was 11, her family moved to Cambridge, Md., where her father opened a clothing store. At 12 she had grown to full height, and she dreamed of being a petite blond movie star like June Allyson. There was one advantage of being tall and deep-voiced: She was chosen for the male roles in school plays.

In recent years, Arthur made guest appearances on shows including “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and “Malcolm in the Middle.” She was chairwoman of the Art Attack Foundation, a non-profit performing arts scholarship organization.

Arthur is survived by her sons and two granddaughters.

SPENCER PRATT & HEIDI MONTAG

2009-04-29T10:22:00.005-05:00

After a symbolic elopement in Mexico last November and a trip to the Beverly Hills courthouse which failed to see them say “I do,” the longtime “Hills” couple are seemingly about to go through with the real thing.

Guests began arriving to the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Pasadena for the nuptials in the mid-afternoon, Saturday, April 25th.

With the wedding about to begin, a skywriter soared about the venue, writing “Spencer Loves Heidi” numerous times.

Spencer and Heidi began dating in the summer of 2006, which created “Hills” drama for Heidi’s friendship with series star Lauren Conrad. Though recent episodes of the MTV show has seen the two reconnecting, that followed months of feuding over a rumored sex tape purportedly starring Lauren and her ex-boyfriend Jason Wahler, a rumor that Lauren put an end to at this week’s PaleyFest09 panel for the show.

SALMA HAYEK

2009-04-29T10:13:00.004-05:00

Salma Hayek's first wedding to billionaire fiance Francois-Henri Pinault was an intimate affair, but for Salma Hayek’s second ceremony on Saturday, the couple went a more lavish route People reported.

The couple’s 19-month-old daughter, Valentina Paloma, reportedly joined the ceremony as a flower girl, wearing a dress by Bonpoint. She was joined by Francois-Henri’s children from his first marriage, son Francois, 10, and daughter Mathilde, 8.

Before the wedding, the couple threw a masquerade ball on Friday evening at the city’s historic Punta Della Dogana, a recently renovated building not yet open to the public, and guests arrived for the wedding the next day in black and gold masks.

Salma and Francois-Henri made their marriage official in a civil ceremony in Paris on Valentine’s Day earlier this year.

JAY LENO

2009-04-29T10:00:00.003-05:00

After missing his first day of work on “The Tonight Show” in 17 years due to illness and spending the night in the hospital, Jay Leno was released on Friday.

Jay was released from the hospital on Friday and spotted back on the set shortly thereafter, where he came in to write a few jokes.

Leno stayed overnight at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Burbank for precautionary measures, after the comedian was admitted Thursday afternoon for what was rumored to be food poisoning.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS & TRIVIA

2009-04-27T13:32:00.001-05:00

Celebrity Birthdays & Trivia

APRIL

19 – Kate Hudson – 30 – Los Angeles, CA
19 – Ashley Judd – 41 – Granada Hills, CA
20 – Carmen Electra – 37 – Sharonville, OH
20 – Jessica Lange – 60 – Cloquet, MN
20 – Ryan O’Neal – 68 – Los Angeles, CA
21 – Andie MacDowell – 51 – Gaffney, SC
21 – Tony Danza – 58 – Brooklyn, NY
21 – Charles Grodin – 74 – Pittsburgh, PA
22 – Jack Nicholson – 72 – Manhattan, NY
22 – Glenn Campbell – 73 – Delight, AR
23 – Dev Patel – 19 – London, England
23 – George Lopez – 48 – Mission Hills, CA
23 – Valerie Bertinelli – 49 – Wilmington, DE
23 – Lee Majors – 70 – Wyandotte, MI
24 – Barbara Streisand – 67 – Brooklyn, NY
24 – Shirley MacLaine – 75 – Richmond, VA
25 – Renee Zellweger – 40 – Katy, TX
25 – Al Pacino – 69 – Manhattan, NY

Trivia

RENEE ZELLWEGER

In junior high school, Zellweger actively took part in several sports, including soccer, basketball, baseball and football. She attended Katy High School, where she was a cheerleader, a gymnast, and a drama club member. Renee acted in several school plays and was voted the "Best Looking" of her class before graduating from high school in 1987. After high school, she went to the University of Texas at Austin to major in English language. She was a good student, and made the Dean's List several times. At the beginning she took a drama class only because she needed a fine arts credit to complete her degree, but the experience made her appreciate how much she loved acting. During this time, she supported herself by taking jobs as a waitress in Austin, Texas and worked maintenance at The Velvet Touch in Flint, Michigan. In 1991, Zellweger graduated from university with a BA degree in English. She considered moving to Hollywood but decided to stay in her home state, Texas, to seek more experience. Her first job after graduation was working in a beef commercial, at the same time she started to audition for roles around Houston.

ZAC EFRON

2009-04-22T11:00:00.002-05:00

Efron’s comedy “17 Again,” in which he plays the youthful version of a middle-aged man magically transformed to high school age, debuted as the top weekend mvoie with $24.1 million, according to studio estimates Sunday.

The No. 1 opening for the Warner Bros. movie solidifies the big-screen potential for Efron, who rose to fame with Disney’s “High School Musical” series.

MADONNA

2009-04-22T10:50:00.006-05:00

Madonna has been released from Southampton Hospital in the Hamptons with “minor injuries and bruises” following being thrown off a horse earlier on Saturday, the pop star’s rep, Liz Rosenberg, told Access Hollywood.

Madonna’s rep issued a new statement on Tuesday saying that police did not, in fact, question the pop star properly after she fell from a horse over the weekend in the Hamptons.

It wasn’t the equestrian star’s first horse-related injury. Madonna broke several bones in a 2005 fall on her English country estate on her 47th birthday, including three cracked ribs, a broken collarbone and a broken hand.

HELIO CASTRONEVES

2009-04-22T10:45:00.002-05:00

Brazilian race car driver and “Dancing With The Stars” champ Helio Castroneves was acquitted Friday of most charges that he worked with his sister and lawyer to evade more than $2.3 million in U.S. income taxes.

A federal jury acquitted Castroneves on six counts of tax evasion but hung on one count of conspiracy. When the sentence was read, Castroneves broke into sobs and leaned against his attorneys for support.

OPRAH WINFREY

2009-04-22T10:41:00.002-05:00

Oprah Winfrey sent her first “tweet” during a taping of her television talk show.

The audience cheered as Winfrey typed “ASHTON IS NEXT” on a laptop Friday morning and sent the message on the social networking site Twitter.

REDMOND O'NEAL

2009-04-22T10:37:00.001-05:00

A judge is giving the son of Farrah Fawcett and Ryan O'Neal one last chance to kick his drug habit.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Scott Millington on Friday transferred two felony drug cases against Redmond O’Neal to a court that could send him to a stringent rehab program. But he sternly warned the 24-year-old that he if he fails at rehab, as he has at least three times before, he’s going to prison.

BRAD PAISLEY

2009-04-22T10:30:00.002-05:00

Country singer Brad Paisley and wife, actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley, have welcomed a second son.

A spokeswoman for the singer says the baby was born Friday morning at a Nashville-area hospital. No word yet on his name.

The Paisleys’ first child, William Huckleberry, whom they call “Huck,” was born in February 2007.

SUSAN BOYLE

2009-04-22T10:15:00.003-05:00

The 47-year-old Scottish singer, who claimed she’s never been kissed, wowed “Britain’s Got Talent” judges Simon Cowell, Piers Morgan and UK actress Amanda Holden, as well as people across the world with her performance of “I Dreamed a Dream” from “Les Miserables.”

Susan Boyle has already won over the hearts of millions around the world since it was placed on YouTube, the video has clocked up over 30 million views. Susan herself has gone on a whirlwind press tour and even received an invitation to appear on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”

Susan’s life has been turned upside down since she appearance on the British talent competition last weekend.

HEIDI KLUM

2009-04-22T10:11:00.003-05:00

Supermodel Heidi Klum is pregnant with baby number four.

This will be the third baby for Heidi, 35, and her singer husband Seal, 46. Heidi has a child from a previous relationship.

Seal announced the news at his show at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on Thursday.

The couple have two sons together, Henry Gunther Ademola Dashtu Samuel, 3, and Johan Riley Fyodor Taiwo Samuel, 2.

Seal is also the adoptive father of Helene “Leni” Klum, who Heidi had with Flavio Briatore.

ANTWON TANNER

2009-04-22T09:58:00.002-05:00

“One Tree Hill” actor Antwon Tanner has pleaded not guilty to involvement in a Social Security scheme.

Tanner appeared in federal court in Brooklyn, N.Y., on Thursday, April 16, 2009, on charges of selling Social Security numbers and cards. If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison. Tanner and his lawyer declined to comment.

The 34-year-old actor is accused of supplying 16 Social Security numbers and three bogus cards to a middleman between December 2005 and last July.

ASHTON KUTCHER

2009-04-22T09:52:00.002-05:00

Ashton Kutcher has become the first member of Twitter to have over one million followers.

CNN, which lost by less than 1,200 followers, quickly congratulated the star.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS & TRIVIA

2009-04-15T15:55:00.006-05:00

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS

APRIL

12– David Letterman – 62 – Indianapolis, IN
13 – Rick Schroeder – 39 – Staten Island, NY
13 – Tony Dow – 64 – Hollywood, CA
14 – Loretta Lynn – 74 – Butcher Hollow, KY
15 – Emma Watson – 19 – Paris, France
15 – Emma Thompson – 50 – London, England
16 – Bobby Vinton – 74 – Canonsburg, PA
17 – Victoria Beckham (Posh Spice) – 35 – Essex, England
17 – Jennifer Garner – 37 – Houston, TX
18 – America Ferrera – 25 – Los Angeles, CA
18 – Melissa Joan Hart – 33 – Long Island, NY
18 – Conan O’Brien – 46 – Brookline, MA
18 – Hayley Mills – 63 – London, Englans

Trivia

DAVID LETTERMAN

Letterman lived near the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and enjoyed collecting model cars, including racers. In 2000 he would tell an interviewer for Esquire that while he was growing up he admired his father's ability to tell jokes and be the life of the party. Harry Joseph Letterman survived a heart attack when he was only 36 years old and Dave was just a young boy. The fear of losing his dad was constantly with Letterman as he grew up. Harry Joseph Letterman died of a second heart attack at age 57.

David Letterman began his career as a radio talk show host on WXLW (AM), and on Indianapolis television station WLWI (now called WTHR) as a local anchor and weatherman. He received some recognition for his unpredictable on-air behavior, which included jokingly calling attention to state borders missing from the weather map, and predicting sizable hail stones "the size of canned hams." (Because this upset his bosses, to this day he occasionally still does also give out canned hams on his show.) One night he reportedly upset his bosses when he congratulated a tropical storm for being upgraded to a hurricane.

He also hosted a talk show which aired early on Saturday mornings called "Clover Power," in which he interviewed 4-H members about their projects.

In 1969, Letterman married Michelle Cook; the marriage ended by divorce in 1977. He also had a long-term relationship with former head writer and producer on Late Night, Merrill Markoe. Markoe was the mind behind several Late Night staples, such as "Stupid Pet/Human Tricks".

Letterman has a son, Harry Joseph (born in 2003), with Regina Lasko. Letterman and Lasko, who had been together since 1986, wed during a quiet courthouse ceremony in Choteau, Montana on March 19, 2009.

GEORGE HARRISON

2009-04-15T14:59:00.001-05:00

Hundreds of George Harrison’s biggest fans and best friends, including Paul McCartney and Tom Petty, turned out Tuesday to see a posthumous star for the quiet Beatle unveiled during a celebration on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Fellow former Beatle McCartney stood next to Harrison’s widow, Olivia, and son, Dhani, as the star was unveiled in front of the landmark Capitol Records building.

MICHAEL JACKSON

2009-04-15T14:53:00.002-05:00

Michael Jackson's possessions aren’t going to the auction block after all.

Julien’s Auction House and a spokesman for Jackson said Tuesday that the singer will retain possession of some 2,000 items from Neverland Ranch as part of a dispute settlement.

The exhibition to promote the sale, which has been open to the public, will continue through April 25.

Jackson’s production company sued auction organizer Darren Julien to halt the sale in early March.

MADONNA

2009-04-15T14:46:00.008-05:00

Madonna is dropping $40 million on a massive New York City mansion.

The pop queen just signed a contract to purchase a multi-million dollar Georgian Townhouse in the “Gossip Girl” approved playground of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, according to the NY Post, which first reported the story.

The property, which features 36 rooms across 12,000 sq. ft, is one of the most expensive properties purchased in the area, a broker told the paper.

In addition, the property contains a 3,000-sq. ft. garden, a two-car garage and nine fireplaces.

JOSH HOLLOWAY

2009-04-15T14:43:00.002-05:00

“Lost” star Josh Holloway is a first-time dad.

Holloway’s wife, Yessica, gave birth to a baby girl last week. Java Kumala Holloway was born in Oahu on April 9.

Java is the first child for the couple, who tied the knot in 2004.

SIMON COWELL

2009-04-15T14:39:00.002-05:00

Simon Cowell wants to look on the bright side concerning his future with “American Idol.”

The famously acerbic Cowell says he still loves doing the Fox network show and he’ll be staying put as judge at least another year. That’s the time remaining on his contract.

SHAWN JOHNSON

2009-04-15T14:30:00.003-05:00

“Dancing With The Stars” contestant Shawn Johnson has been granted a three-year restraining order against her alleged stalker, Robert O’Ryan.

A judge granted the request in a Los Angeles court on Tuesday. The gymnast’s parents were present in court with their attorney, Laura Stone. Johnson was not in the courtroom.

O’Ryan, who remains in custody and was not present in court on Tuesday, was arrested during the early hours of March 24, after trying to break on to the “Dancing” set at CBS Studios to meet Johnson.

The 34-year-old man from Yullee, Fla., allegedly drove from Florida to Los Angeles to meet the 17-year-old Johnson. He pled not guilty to charges of stalking and carrying loaded firearms in Los Angeles Superior Court two days later.

TORI SPELLING

2009-04-15T14:08:00.002-05:00

Despite Candy Spelling’s recent claims that daughter Tori Spelling does not call or attempt to communicate with her, the “90210” star told People “there’s no feud" with her mother.

“It’s not like we’re not talking, we just haven’t talked,” Tori, whose new book, “Mommywood,” comes out on Tuesday, told the mag. “I love my mother. I’ve always loved her [and I have] no doubt she loves me. There’s no feud. We simply never meshed.”

Tori said the two haven’t kept in touch of late because of personality conflicts.
“My mother is who she is. I’ve become who I am.

JAY LENO

2009-04-15T14:04:00.002-05:00

Boston’s NBC affiliate has decided to air Jay Leno's new show, after all.

WHDH-TV owner Ed Ansin issued a brief statement Monday saying that “upon further consideration,” the station had decided to telecast Leno’s 10 p.m. talk show beginning in September.

WHDH had previously said it would run a local newscast in that time slot instead, prompting a threat from NBC to strip the station of its network affiliation.

KANYE WEST

2009-04-15T13:59:00.002-05:00

Kanye West's arraignment on misdemeanor charges has been delayed until May.

Lawyers for the rapper and his road manager were granted a delay to enter pleas until May 20 during a brief hearing Monday afternoon.

West, who is not required to attend, was scheduled to be arraigned on three misdemeanor charges filed as result of a scuffle with a paparazzo at Los Angeles International Airport on Sept. 11.

MEL GIBSON

2009-04-15T13:46:00.003-05:00

Mel Gibson's wife, Robyn, has filed for divorce from the actor.

“Throughout our marriage and separation we have always strived to maintain the privacy and integrity of our family and will continue to do so,” the Gibsons said in a joint statement released to Access on Monday.

Robyn signed the divorce papers on Thursday and filed the papers on Monday morning in Los Angeles Superior Court, citing “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split.

Mel and Robyn were married in 1980 after meeting in Australia in 1977. The couple has seven children the youngest, Thomas, born in 1999, is the only minor.

Robyn is seeking joint physical and legal custody of Thomas. She is also requesting the court grant her spousal support from the actor.

"HANNAH MONTANA: THE MOVIE"

2009-04-15T13:27:00.002-05:00

Walt Disney’s “Hannah Montana: The Movie” opened with $34 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates Sunday. That followed Cyrus’ first-place premiere last year with her 3-D concert film.

The movie is a big-screen installment of the Disney Channel series about an ordinary teen living a double life as pop star Hannah.

“Hannah Montana” drew $17.3 million on Friday for the biggest opening day ever for a G-rated live-action movie.

MADONNA

2009-04-15T13:05:00.002-05:00

According to an e-mail from the pop star, published in Malawian newspaper The Nation on Sunday, Madonna wants to provide for orphaned young girl Chifundo “Mercy” James, despite a judge’s rejection of her adoption application.

In 2006, Madonna adopted David Banda from the African nation. However, on April 3, her adoption of Mercy was rejected over a law requiring 18 to 24 months of residency in the country, a legality that caused controversy during her adoption of David. Madonna’s lawyer confirmed to the Associated Press that the pop star was appealling the verdict not long after the judge’s decision was handed down.

CHRIS BROWN

2009-04-15T12:15:00.002-05:00

In an interview conducted in 2007 and now released in the April 21 issue of Vibe, embattled singer Chris Brown discussed his troubled past foreshadowing the R&B star’s current controversy, which saw him plead not guilty to charges of assault and criminal threat against his girlfriend, Rihanna, in Los Angeles Superior Court on Monday.

Brown has been pressed with felony charges over an alleged violent incident in the early morning of February 8 of this year, where he allegedly bit and hit Rihanna, leaving her hospitalized.

HUGH LAURIE

2009-04-15T12:06:00.003-05:00

Hugh Laurie is a big hit with U.S. TV audiences, but apparently, he’s also big in France as an author.

The “House” star had the best-selling book in France in the month of March, the BBC reported.

OPRAH WINFREY

2009-04-15T12:01:00.002-05:00

The FBI and “The Oprah Winfrey Show” say Internet users should beware of an e-mail scam that promises attendance at the popular talk show in exchange for the purchase of a plane ticket.

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center said this week that a circulating e-mail was advertising the “Oprah Millionaire Contest Show,” which asks recipients for contact information. It also says those who apply have a chance to win $1 million.

The bureau says the e-mail is fraudulent and not from Winfrey or her show’s production company, or Harpo Productions.

FARRAH FAWCETT

2009-04-15T11:54:00.002-05:00

Farrah Fawcett was receiving the support of Ryan O'Neal during her time in a Los Angeles-area hospital. Ryan, who has served as a companion and confidante throughout Farrah’s cancer battle.

Farrah was released from an undisclosed hospital on Thursday, April 9th, after a brief hospitalization related to complications from a minor procedure.

"SIMPSONS"

2009-04-15T11:41:00.000-05:00

Starting on May 7, fans will be able to buy postage stamps featuring the animated faces of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie, the stars of the long-running FOX show. The show is currently in its 20th year, making it the only TV show to be honored as the sole subject of a stamp set while still in primetime production.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS & TRIVIA

2009-04-01T10:17:00.002-05:00

Celebrity Birthdays & Trivia

APRIL

5– Colin Powell – 72 – New York City, NY
6 – Zach Braff – 34 – South Orange, NJ
6 – Paul Rudd – 40 – Passaic, NJ
6 – Billy Dee Williams – 72 – New York City, NY
7 – Russell Crowe – 45 – Wellington, New Zealand
7 – Jackie Chan – 55 – Victoria Park, Hong Kong
7 – James Garner – 81 – Norman, OK
8 – Betty Ford – 91 – Chicago, IL
9 – Kristen Stewart – 19 – Los Angeles, CA
9 – Dennis Quaid – 55 – Houston, TX
9 – Hugh Hefner – 83 – Chicago, IL
10 – Seven Seagal – 57 – Lansing, MI

Trivia

DENNIS QUAID

Aside from acting, Quaid is a musician and plays with his band the Sharks. He also has a pilot's license and is a scratch golfer, in 2005, was named as the top golfer among the "Hollywood set" by Golf Digest. He lends his name to the annual "Dennis Quaid Charity Weekend" (formerly the "Jiffy Lube/Dennis Quaid Charity Classic") in Austin, Texas. The golf tournament attracts numerous celebrities with the proceeds split among local children's charities.

Quaid works with the charity "International Hospital for Children in New Orleans." He makes trips to Central America to help build medical clinics and transport sick children back to the United States for treatment they cannot get locally.

In a 2006 interview with Best Life magazine, Quaid said that in the mid-1990s he suffered from anorexia.

Known for his famous grin, Quaid has appeared in both comedic and dramatic roles.

ANDY HALLETT

2009-04-01T08:21:00.001-05:00

An agent for 33-year-old singer and actor Andy Hallett says the former cast member from the vampire TV series “Angel” has died of congestive heart disease.

Hallett’s agent Pat Brady says Hallett died Sunday at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles after having problems breathing. Brady says he has battled the heart condition for the past five years.

Hallett was a fan favorite on the “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” spinoff as Lorne, a green-skinned good guy demon who runs a karaoke club and can read a person’s aura when they sing.

LAKISHA JONES

2009-04-01T08:08:00.001-05:00

Former “American Idol’ finalist Lakisha Jones is expecting a baby with her new husband, financial advisor Larry Davis.

The couple were married last October in Beverly Hills

The baby, due in August, will be Lakisha’s second child. She has a 6-year-old daughter, Brionne, who was the one who initially encouraged her to try out for “American Idol.”

TAYE DIGGS

2009-04-01T08:00:00.006-05:00

Actors Taye Diggs and Idina Menzel are expecting their first child together.

The baby is due later this year. US Weekly was the first to report the preganacy.

Diggs, 38, and Menzel, 37, began dating after meeting in 1996 on the set of the Broadway play, “Rent.” They were married in January 2003.

QUEEN LATIFAH

2009-04-01T07:54:00.005-05:00

A makeup artist and a fashion stylist claim in coordinated lawsuits that they got ugly treatment from Queen Latifah when she cheated them out of $1 million.

Celebrity cosmetology consultant Roxanna Floyd says she lost $700,000 when the rapper-actress failed to pay her for work she did between July 2005 and February 2008.

In a separate lawsuit, celebrity fashion stylist Susan Moses said she was cheated of $300,000 during the same period.

The lawsuits were filed Monday in federal court in Manhattan.

ALYSON HANNIGAN

2009-04-01T07:49:00.005-05:00

Alyson Hannigan and her husband, actor Alexis Denisof, welcomed a baby girl to their family last week. Satyana Denisof and was born on March 24.

This marks the first child for Alyson, 35 and Alexis, 43, who met while working on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” in 1999. The couple wed in 2003.

MATT DILLON

2009-04-01T07:42:00.002-05:00

Matt Dillon had his case dismissed after pleading guilty to speeding and paying an $828 fine.

The 44-year-old actor was stopped Dec. 30 on Interstate 91 while driving 106 mph in rural Northern Vermont. Because of the excessive speed, he was also charged with negligent operation of a motor vehicle.

"MONSTERS VS ALIENS"

2009-03-31T14:55:00.002-05:00

DreamWorks Animation’s action comedy “Monsters vs. Aliens,” which features creatures from 1950s flicks in a showdown with invading extraterrestrials, launched itself into the No. 1 spot with a $58.2 million debut, according to studio estimates Sunday.

It was the biggest debut so far in 2009, topping the $55.2 million first weekend of “Watchmen” in early March.

TIM ALLEN

2009-03-31T14:35:00.002-05:00

Tim Allen and wife Jane Hajduk added a new addition to their family over the weekend.

The couple welcomed baby Elizabeth, 5-pound, 13-ounces, on Saturday in Los Angeles, the Associated Press reported.

A rep for the actor said the couple is extremely happy with the new baby and both mom and child are healthy.

MADONNA

2009-03-31T14:31:00.002-05:00

Madonna has confirmed her attempts to adopt a young Malawian girl and said through a spokeswoman that she is following standard procedures in adopting the child amid criticism by some that she was using her fame to quicken the process.

The 50-year-old pop superstar also confirmed she took her 3-year-old son David, also adopted from Malawi, to visit with his biological father Yohane Banda for the first time since she and David left the country in 2006.

BILLY BUSH

2009-03-31T14:21:00.001-05:00

Access Hollywood's Billy Bush is heading to the Miss USA Pageant 2009.

Billy will host the pageant,a joint venture from Donald J. Trump and NBC Universal, from Las Vegas on April 19. He previously hosted Miss Universe and Miss USA in 2003, 2004 and 2005.

Billy’s co-host will be Nadine Velazquez from “My Name Is Earl.”

NICOLE KIDMAN

2009-03-31T14:10:00.002-05:00

Nicole Kidman will star in the new Woody Allen film, Variety reported on Thursday.

Nicole joins the already announced Naomi Watts, Antonio Banderas, Josh Brolin, Anthony Hopkins and “Slumdog Millionaire” star Freida Pinto in the as-of-yet untitled film.

T.I.

2009-03-31T14:04:00.003-05:00

A judge sentenced Rapper T.I. to one year and a day behind bars on federal weapons charges last Friday.

The 28-year-old rapper, whose real name is Clifford Harris, entered court smiling as he greeted his lawyers and family members. He wore a dark gray suit and black dress shirt and tie for sentencing.

Harris pleaded guilty last March after he was arrested in 2007, attempting to buy unregistered machine guns and silencers. The arrest on Oct. 13 of that year occurred blocks from where he was to headline the BET Hip-Hop Awards in Atlanta hours later.

He will have between 30 and 60 days to report to prison. Harris already has completed about 1,000 hours of community service and has warned youths about the pitfalls of guns, drugs, violence. He will need to complete 470 additional hours.

MARG HELGENBERGER

2009-03-26T10:35:00.001-05:00

“CSI” star Marg Helgenberger has filed for divorce from her husband, fellow actor and Screen Actors Guild President Alan Rosenberg.

She filed her petition Tuesday in Los Angeles, citing irreconcilable differences.

The couple got married in 1989 and have a son together.

BOB BARKER

2009-03-26T10:29:00.003-05:00

Bob Barker returned to “The Price Is Right”, this time he was the showcase.

After nearly two years in retirement, the 85-year-old former game show host was invited to come on down to “The Price Is Right” to promote his upcoming memoir, “Priceless Memories,” due out April 6.

NATASHA RICHARDSON

2009-03-26T10:24:00.002-05:00

Natasha Richardson was laid to rest over the weekend, but before her tragic death, the result of a freak ski accident, her family had her organs donated.

According to People, Richardson’s family, which includes grieving husband Liam Neeson, the couple’s two sons, Micheal, 13, and Daniel, 12, mother Vanessa Redgrave and sister Joely Richardson, made the decision to donate her organs.

REDMOND O'NEAL

2009-03-26T10:21:00.002-05:00

Redmond O’Neal, the troubled son of actor Ryan O'Neal, pleaded not guilty to felony and misdemeanor drug charges on Wednesday in a Malibu, CA, courthouse.

The charges stem from a September 17 incident, when Redmond, 24, and Ryan, 67, were arrested at the actor’s home in Malibu.

Redmond, whose mother is Farrah Fawcett, entered the plea against one felony count of methamphetamine possession, two misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and one misdemeanor count of illegal possession of pepper spray.

His next court date is scheduled for May 14.

VALERIE BERTINELLI

2009-03-26T10:08:00.006-05:00

Valerie Bertinelli stripped down to a teeny bikini for the April 6 cover of People magazine, where she revealed she’s lost almost 50 pounds from her 5’4” frame.

In shape at 48, Valerie, belly button ring and all, unleashed to the world what nine months of hard work and losing 49 pounds looks like on the new mag cover.

“On Jenny Craig, she did lose 40 pounds to get down to 132 but for this bikini shoot she went even lower,” Galina explained. “Workout wise, she amped things up.”

Valerie lost an additional nine pounds before the shoot by lowering her 1,700 calorie per day diet to 1,200 calories. She also cut out salt and hit the gym for one hour, four to five times per week. Valerie believes a combination of cardio and strength training minimized her “jiggly bits,” as she called them.

Valerie will reveal her two-piece campaign next Wednesday on Oprah, a move reminiscent of her Jenny Craig counterpart Kirstie Alley.

2009-03-25T12:28:00.003-05:00

Celebrity Birthdays & Trivia

March
30 – Norah Jones – 30 – Brooklyn, NY
30 – Celine Dion – 41 – Montreal, Quebec, CANADA
30 – MC Hammer – 47 – Oakland, CA
30 – Eric Clapton – 64 – Surrey, ENGLAND
30 – Warren Beatty – 72 – Richmond, VA
31 – Al Gore – 61 – Washington, DC
31 – Rhea Perlman – 60 – Brooklyn, NY
31 – Gabe Kaplan – 64 – Los Angeles, CA
31 – Shirley Jones – 75 – Charleroi, PA

APRIL
1 – Ali MacGraw – 71 – Pound Ridge, NY
1 – Debbie Reynolds – 77 – El Paso, TX
3 – Eddie Murphy – 48 – Brooklyn, NY
3 – Alec Baldwin – 51 – Massapequa, NY
3 – Tony Orlando – 65 – Manhattan, NY
3 – Wayne Newton – 67 – Norfolk, VA
4 – David Blaine – 36 – Brooklyn, NY
4 – Robert Downey, Jr. – 44 – New York City, NY

Trivia

RHEA PERLMAN

Rhea Perlman was born in Brooklyn, New York, the daughter of Adele and Philip Perlman, who was an actor as well as doll and toy part salesman.

She is the sister of Heide Perlman, who worked as a writer, story editor and producer on the television show Cheers. Her father, Philip Perlman was in the TV show Cheers as Phil, a bar patron. Along with Ted Danson and George Wendt, she is one of only three actors to appear in all 273 episodes of Cheers.

She married the actor Danny DeVito on January 28, 1982, who played her husband in the film Matilda. They have three children: Lucy Chet DeVito (born March 1983), Grace Fan DeVito (born March 1985) and Jacob Daniel DeVito (born October 1987).

Perlman is the author of the successful illustrated children's book series Otto Undercover, with six books which are Born to Drive, Canyon Catastrophe, Water Balloon Doom, Toxic Taffy Takeover, Brink of the Ex-stink-tion, and Brain Freeze.

PRINCE

2009-03-25T09:35:00.003-05:00

Prince fans will find a nice bang for your buck in his “Purple Majesty’s” latest musical offering. It’s a three disc set including two of Prince’s latest discs, “LOtUSFLOW3R” [Lotus flower], “MPLSoUND” [Minneapolis Sound], and a disc titled “Elixer,” the debut album from Prince’s protégé, Bria Valente.

The discs won’t hit Target stores exclusively until March 29, but you will be able to get digital downloads from LOTUSFLOW3R.COM, Prince’s Web site.

MATT LAUER

2009-03-25T09:25:00.001-05:00

Matt Lauer is recovering from surgery to repair the shoulder he separated when he fell off his bike while avoiding a deer that jumped in his path.

“Today” show news anchor Ann Curry says the operation went “very well,” but Lauer is probably in “a lot of pain.”

Lauer was riding his bike on Long Island last weekend when a deer jumped in his path. The 51-year-old “Today” show host flew over the handlebars. NBC says Lauer was wearing a helmet.

DAVID LETTERMAN

2009-03-25T09:20:00.002-05:00

Letterman and longtime girlfriend Regina Lasko tied the knot last week in Montana, the “Late Show” host announced during the taping of Monday’s show.

“On Thursday, at 3 PM, March 19, 2009, at the Teton County Courthouse in Choteau, Montana, I was married to Regina Lasko,” he told the audience.

The couple began dating in 1986 and, as Letterman explained, he clearly wasn’t in a rush to the altar.

Letterman, 61, and Lasko, 48, have a son, Harry, who was born in November 2003.

ANNE HATHAWAY

2009-03-25T09:16:00.002-05:00

The Oscar-nominated actress, Anne Hathaway, is set to play Judy Garland in both film and stage adaptations of Gerald Clarke’s 2000 biography. It’s titled “Get Happy: The Life of Judy Garland.”

The announcement was made Monday by Weinstein Co. boss Harvey Weinstein.

Garland is perhaps best known for starring in 1939’s “The Wizard of Oz” and singing its Oscar-winning ballad “Over the Rainbow.” She died in 1969 at age 47.

GEORGE LOPEZ

2009-03-25T09:09:00.004-05:00

Comic George Lopez is getting into the late-night talk show game.

TBS says Lopez will start a new talk show in November. It will air Monday through Thursday at 11 p.m., and Lopez promises an outdoor street-party atmosphere.

Lopez’s show, which will be based in Los Angeles, will feature celebrity guests, comedy and music.

ROBIN WILLIAMS

2009-03-25T08:41:00.002-05:00

Robin Williams was recovering at the Cleveland Clinic after heart surgery that his doctors deemed successful, his publicists said Monday.

The 57-year-old actor had an operation to replace an aortic valve on March 13, publicists Mara Buxbaum and Chris Kanarick said. He was expected to make a complete recovery in the next eight weeks.

Williams was initially treated at the University of Miami Hospital before being transferred to Cleveland. He had been in Florida earlier this month when he was forced to cancel the remainder of his one-man comedy show, “Weapons of Self-Destruction,” after experiencing shortness of breath.

DANICA MCKELLAR

2009-03-25T08:35:00.003-05:00

Danica McKellar, who played Winnie Cooper on the hit TV series “The Wonder Years,” walked down the aisle on Sunday with composer Mike Verta.

The bride and groom exchanged vows in front of 150 people at an ocean-side church at sunset in La Jolla, Calif., in what the bride called an intimate ceremony.

McKellar, 34, and Verta, 36, began dating in 2001 and got engaged last August in Chicago.

In addition to playing Winnie Cooper, McKellar is also a mathematician — she graduated summa cum laude from UCLA in 1998 with a BS in mathematics and is the author of two best-selling books: “Math Doesn’t Suck” and “Kiss My Math.”

LANCE ARMSTRONG

2009-03-25T08:30:00.002-05:00

Lance Armstrong was taken to the hospital Monday with a possible broken collarbone after falling during a pileup in the first stage of a race.

Organizers of the five-day Vuelta of Castilla and Leon race said Armstrong has a “suspected bone fracture” after his tumble 12.5 miles from the finish.

The 37-year-old Texan is making a comeback to cycling and is riding with the Astana team as he prepares for another possible shot at a Tour de France title. He had not raced in Spain for five years.

HARRISON FORD

2009-03-25T08:26:00.001-05:00

Longtime couple Harrison Ford & Calista Flockhart are engaged!

The “Indiana Jones” and “Brothers & Sisters” stars have dated since 2002. Harrison surprised Calista on a Valentine’s Day vacation with a ring.

NATASHA BEDINGFIELD

2009-03-25T08:22:00.002-05:00

British singer Natasha Bedingfield has gotten married in Malibu.

Natasha wed California businessman Matthew Robinson in a 30-minute outdoor ceremony overlooking the Pacific Ocean on Saturday.

About 150 guests watched Bedingfield walk down the aisle in a Vera Wang dress beside the chateau at the Church Estates Vineyards.

BRUCE WILLIS

2009-03-25T08:17:00.003-05:00

Bruce Willis, 54, and model/actress Emma Heming, 30, wed in a small, private ceremony on Saturday.

The wedding was held at Bruce’s Parrot Cay home on the Caribbean islands of Turks & Caicos.

His ex-wife, Demi Moore, attended with husband Ashton Kutcher and the former couple’s children, daughters Rumer, Scout and Tullalah.

Bruce and Emma, who met through mutual friends, had dated for over a year.

"KNOWING"

2009-03-25T08:12:00.002-05:00

Summit Entertainment’s supernatural thriller “Knowing,” which stars Nicholas Cage as an astrophysics professor who figures out how to predict monumental catastrophes, debuted as the No. 1 movie at the weekend box office with $24.8 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates Sunday.

“Knowing” easily foiled “I Love You, Man” and “Duplicity,” the other films opening in wide release. “I Love You, Man” was second with $18 million and “Duplicity” was third at $14.4 million.

JADE GOODY

2009-03-25T07:53:00.002-05:00

Jade Goody’s family asks for “privacy at last” after the death at 27 of the brash former dental assistant who turned her tumultuous life and struggle with cervical cancer into a one-woman reality show.

Goody gained fame in 2002 at age 21 when she joined the British version of the reality television show “Big Brother,” in which contestants live together for weeks and are constantly filmed. She became a highly divisive star and something of a national touchstone who sparked debate about race, class and celebrity.

During filming of an Indian version of “Celebrity Big Brother” in the summer of 2008, Goody received a diagnosis of cervical cancer by telephone from a doctor in Britain. The camera captured the deeply personal moment, which was shown repeatedly on TV.

ELLEN DEGENERES

2009-03-25T07:48:00.002-05:00

Oprah Winfrey offered to share the cover of O magazine with Ellen DeGeneres, and DeGeneres,who’s been campaigning for the spot, has accepted.

Winfrey surprised DeGeneres with a video telephone call on Friday’s episode of “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” She told a shocked DeGeneres that she was “calling to officially invite you on the cover of O.”

Winfrey had gone solo on the cover of O magazine for nine years before sharing the spot with first lady Michelle Obama.

RUN DMC

2009-03-25T07:44:00.001-05:00

Rapper Eminem, guitar legend Jimmy Page and Ron Wood of the Rolling Stones are among the presenters for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Run-DMC will be inducted by Eminem, Jeff Beck will be inducted by Page, and Wood will induct Bobby Womack.

The ceremony will be held April 4 at Public Auditorium in Cleveland.

NATASHA RICHARDSON

2009-03-24T13:03:00.005-05:00

Natasha Richardson died Wednesday following a serious head injury on a Canadian ski slope on Monday. She was 45.

Richardson was the elder daughter of Oscar-winning Redgrave and the late director Tony Richardson. Her sister, Joely, is also an actress, best known for starring in the TV series “Nip/Tuck.”

Richardson and Neeson wed in 1994. Their first son, Micheal Richard Antonio, was born in 1995, and their second, Daniel Jack, the following year.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS & TRIVIA

2009-03-18T14:42:00.005-05:00

Celebrity Birthdays & Trivia

March

22 – Reese Witherspoon – 33 – New Orleans, LA
22 – William Shatner – 78 – Montreal, Quebec
25 – Sarah Jessica Parker – 44 – Nelsonville, OH
25 – Elton John – 62 – London, England
25 – Aretha Franklin – 66 – Memphis, TN
26 – Keira Knightley – 24 – London, England
26 – Kenney Chesney – 41 – Knoxville, TN
26 – Vicki Lawrence – 60 – Inglewood, CA
26 – Diana Ross – 65 – Detroit, MI
26 – Leonard Nimoy – 78 – Boston, MA
27 – “Fergie” Ferguson – 34 – Hacienda Heights, CA
27 – Marie Carey – 39 – Long Island, NY
28 – Julia Stiles – 28 – New York City, NY
28 – Vince Vaughn – 39 – Minneapolis, MN
28 – Reba McEntire – 54 – McAlester, OK

Trivia

REESE WITHERSPOON

Reese Witherspoon was selected as a model for a florist's television advertisements at age seven, which motivated her to take acting lessons. At age eleven she took first place in the Ten-State Talent Fair. Witherspoon received good grades in school; she loved reading and considered herself "a big dork who read loads of books."

Witherspoon owns a production company called Type A Films. She is a long-time supporter of Save the Children, an organization that helps children around the world through education, health care, and emergency aid. She also serves on the board of the Children’s Defense Fund, a child advocacy and research group. In 2006, Witherspoon was among a group of actresses who went to New Orleans, Louisiana in a CDF project to bring to light the needs of Hurricane Katrina victims. In this trip, she helped open the city's first Freedom School, as she met and talked with the children. Witherspoon later called this an experience that she would never forget.

In 2007, Witherspoon made her first move into the world of endorsements, as she signed a multi-year agreement to serve as the first Global Ambassador of cosmetic company Avon Products.

STACEY KEACH

2009-03-18T12:20:00.001-05:00

Stacy Keach has been hospitalized and was replaced by his understudy in a Los Angeles stage production of “Frost/Nixon.”

Dick Guttman, a spokesman for the 67-year-old actor, says Keach was in stable condition. He didn’t say why Keach was hospitalized or provide further details.

NATASHA RICHARDSON

2009-03-18T12:00:00.010-05:00

Natasha Richardson has been flown to New York following her skiing accident in Montreal, Canada, the NY Daily News reported. Members of Natasha Richardson’s family gathered at a New York hospital where the Tony-winning actress was reportedly taken with a serious head injury.

Richardson, the wife of “Taken” star Liam Neeson and daughter of Vanessa Redgrave, was reportedly flown home earlier Tuesday, March 17th. The couple have an apartment in NYC. She reportedly left the Sacre-Coeur Hospital in Montreal on Tuesday and left the country at 12:30 PM local time, Josee-Michelle Simard, a hospital spokesperson, told the paper.

Richardson’s skiing accident occurred on Monday at Station Mont Tremblant near Montreal while the 45-year-old Tony-winning star was taking a lesson. Liam Neeson rushed to the side of his wife, Natasha Richardson, after the actress was involved in an accident, according to Canadian Television.

DON IMUS

2009-03-18T11:11:00.001-05:00

Don Imus said he has prostate cancer, but the radio personality expressed confidence in a full recovery.

Imus, 68, made the announcement Monday on his morning show from New York, which airs on ABC Radio Networks and cable’s RFD-TV. He said he wrestled with the idea of making it public, but figured he should because he might have to miss some work due to treatment.

ANDY SAMBERG

2009-03-18T11:06:00.004-05:00

“Saturday Night Live” star Andy Samberg will host the 2009 MTV Movie Awards.

It will be Samberg’s first time as host of the event, to air live from the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City, Calif., on May 31.

The MTV Movie Awards are presented in unconventional categories including “best villain” and “best kiss.”

ANNA NICOLE SMITH

2009-03-18T11:00:00.002-05:00

Los Angeles police say psychiatrist Khristine Eroshevich has surrendered to face charges of excessively prescribing drugs to Anna Nicole Smith before the former model’s overdose death in 2007.

Police spokeswoman Rosario Herrera says Eroshevich turned herself in around 11 a.m. Monday at the Van Nuys station.

Eroshevich is charged with conspiring with another doctor and Smith’s lawyer-turned-boyfriend Howard K. Stern.

CHARLIE SHEEN

2009-03-18T10:56:00.001-05:00

Charlie Sheen and his wife, real estate investor Brooke Mueller, welcomed twin boys -- Bob and Max -- Saturday in Los Angeles.

The new arrivals are the couple's first children together.

RON SILVER

2009-03-18T10:26:00.001-05:00

Actor Ron Silver, who won a Tony Award as a take-no-prisoners Hollywood producer in David Mamet’s “Speed-the-Plow” and did a political about-face from loyal Democrat to Republican activist after the Sept. 11 attacks, died Sunday at the age of 62.

“Ron Silver died peacefully in his sleep with his family around him early Sunday morning” in New York City, said Robin Bronk, executive director of the Creative Coalition, which Silver helped found. “He had been fighting esophageal cancer for two years.”

ANDREW MARTIN

2009-03-18T10:18:00.003-05:00

Authorities say former professional wrestler Andrew Martin, who was known as “Test” and “The Punisher” to fans, has died at his Tampa home. He was 33.

The former World Wrestling Entertainment champion was found dead at his apartment Friday night. Police say a neighbor reported that she could see into his apartment window and that Martin appeared motionless for several hours.

Police say there was no indication of foul play. A cause of death will be determined after an autopsy.

"RACE TO WITCH MOUNTAIN"

2009-03-18T10:09:00.003-05:00

Disney’s “Race to Witch Mountain” raced to No. 1 at the weekend box office, bypassing expectations with $25 million in ticket sales.

The PG-rated sci-fi flick starring Dwayne Johnson as a cab driver with a pair of alien teenagers along for the ride topped the R-rated superhero epic “Watchmen,” which earned $18.1 million in its second week.

RIHANNA

2009-03-18T10:03:00.002-05:00

Despite a report that Rihanna was in New York City over the weekend taking meetings for various movie projects, reps for the pop star denied she was in town looking to land a movie role.

According to The New York Daily News' Gatecrasher, Rihanna had multiple meetings for potential features while in New York, one of which is a remake of 1992’s “Bodyguard,” which starred Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner.

LINDSAY LOHAN

2009-03-18T09:56:00.004-05:00

Lindsay Lohan is wanted by the Beverly Hills Police Department in connection with a 2007 DUI.

According to the Associated Press, a warrant was issued for the star’s arrest on Friday. Police Sargeant Mike Foxen told the AP on Saturday that the police had not yet been in touch with Lindsay. Linsay's weekend legal woes came to an end Monday morning at the Beverly Hills courthouse, when the actress resolved the warrant for her arrest issued on Friday.

Lohan’s attorney, Shawn Chapman Holly, said the actress switched her alcohol program but did not notify the court of the change. Judge Marsha N. Revel, who presided over the hearing, said it was the actress’ responsibility to inform the court of any changes related to her three years probation sentence.

HULK HOGAN

2009-03-18T08:56:00.002-05:00

An attorney for Hulk Hogran's wife got into a verbal sparring match with the former professional wrestler outside a courtroom and asked if Hogan was going to wrestle him.

The spat started when lawyer Ray Rafool was answering questions about the divorce case for television cameras. He spoke after a hearing Thursday in which a judge granted the release of $225,000 in frozen assets for Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea.

GEORGE CLOONEY

2009-03-18T08:48:00.003-05:00

George Clooney led a parade of old favorites back to “ER” as the medical drama nears the end of its 15-year run.

Clooney, who left the show in 1999 to pursue movie stardom, reprised his character Dr. Doug Ross. Now in Seattle, Ross works with wife Carol Hathaway (Julianna Margulies) to persuade a grandmother played by Susan Sarandon to donate the organs of her grandson. One of those organs, the kidney, went to “some doctor in Chicago,” Hathaway said. Neither she nor Ross knew the transplant patient was their old colleague John Carter, played by fellow “ER” original Noah Wyle.

The finale of the NBC drama is scheduled for April 2.

Once televison's most popular show, “ER” anchors a diminished NBC lineup with about one-quarter the audience it had during its peak.

MICHAEL JACKSON

2009-03-18T08:42:00.002-05:00

Tickets for Michael Jackson's 50 London concerts sold out within hours of becoming available, organizers said Friday.

The shows are scheduled to kick off in July and stretch into February. The pop singer has said the series, entitled “This is It,” will be his last in the British capital.

After 360,000 advance tickets sold out earlier this week, roughly 500,000 tickets were made available Friday, organizers said. Hundreds of people waited outside the arena for the chance to buy them.

CHANDRA WILSON

2009-03-18T08:23:00.004-05:00

Three-time Emmy nominee Chandra Wilson is returning to Broadway this summer. She’ll spend her four week hiatus from the hit ABC TV show, "Grey's Anatomy", on the Great White Way, slipping into the role of Matron “Mama” Morton in the long-running hit “Chicago.”

It’s the same role, which Queen Latifah played in the 2002 Oscar-winning film.

This will be Wilson’s first time on Broadway since “Grey’s” got its start in 2005. Last time she appeared on stage was in the Tony Kushner musical “Caroline, Or Change,” back in 2004.

SHANNEN DOHERTY

2009-03-18T08:18:00.003-05:00

Shannen Doherty is reprising her role as Brenda Walsh on “90210.” Reps for the star and The CW network, which airs the show, have confirmed Shannen will return to the series.

Shannen will appear in the season finale of the show, which stars Ryan Eggold, Shenae Grimes and Shannen’s fellow original “90210” alum Jennie Garth.

Shannen appeared in several episodes of the new “90210” last fall.

ANNE HECHE

2009-03-18T07:56:00.005-05:00

Anne Heche and boyfriend James Tupper have welcomed a baby boy. Atlas Heche Tupper was born weighing 6 lbs., 12 oz.

Atlas is the second child for Anne Heche. She also has a 7-year-old son, Homer, from her marriage to Coley Laffoon.

Anne and James met on the set of ABC’s “Men In Trees” in 2007.