celebrity

Tabu to play Amitabh's love interest yet again

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:34:00 +0000

Tabu to play Amitabh's love interest yet again

Mumbai, Dec 4 (IANS) After doing 'Cheeni Kum', a contemporary take on relationships, Amitabh Bachchan and Tabu are teaming up again for period film 'The Legend Of Kunal'.

The film, to be directed by Chandraprakash Dwivedi and produced by Amitabh's company AB Corp Ltd, has the Big B playing emperor Ashoka and Tabu his wife Tishyarakshitra.

This would be the first film Tabu is signing after R. Balki's 'Cheeni Kum' last year.

'Tabu had not a moment's hesitation in saying yes to the role of emperor Ashoka's powerful wife Tishyarakshitra, so powerful she swayed the entire Mauryan empire with her politics and aura. We needed an actress with the strength of conviction,' Dwivedi, who has earlier made period film 'Pinjar', told IANS.

'History and its cinematic treatment demand the characters to be true to their antecedents. And emperor Ashoka, who is caught in his twilight years in my film, had to be played by Bachchan saab. Only he possesses the gravity, sobriety and personality along with being the age required.

'I wouldn't make Ashoka without him. As for Tabu, she plays his young, fiery, assertive wife. She's an actress I've wanted to work with for a very long time. Again, only she could play Tishyarakshitra,' Diwedi said.

In addition, the film will star Arjun Rampal as emperor Ashoka's son Kunal. Amrita Rao will play his wife Kanchanmala.

'Again, I cast them because of their suitability rather than saleability,' Dwivedi said.

'In fact, Amrita was recommended by Jaya Bachchan. Tabu and Amrita have many dramatic confrontation scenes together. I needed an actress who could hold her own against someone as powerful as Tabu. Amrita is delicate but strong,' he added.

The director, who became a name to reckon with after directing the television epic 'Chankaya', is determined not to make compromises with history or with his creativity in making 'The Legend Of Kunal'.

'It's a big responsibility, not only to history but also to Bachchan saab, who has never in his long and distinguished career played a historical character. Isn't that ironical? It's also a responsibility because after 'Cheeni Kum', audiences would want to see what has been done with the very unusual and striking pair of Bachchan saab and Tabu. I can't afford to slip up.'

Dwivedi has just wrapped up the very complicated process of writing the 'Upanishad' for the small screen, which his wife, the very talented Mandira will direct.

'I'm now devoting all my time to 'The Legend Of Kunal'. I'll be accompanying Bachchan saab to Bodh Gaya in Bihar, the birthplace of the Buddha, for a visit. My film deals with those years when the warrior Ashoka reforms into a saint. I need to get both Bachchan saab and myself into the mood.'

The Burning Plain' debuts at Venice film festival

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 16:43:00 +0000

The Burning Plain' debuts at Venice film festival

VENICE, Italy - Guillermo Arriaga's directorial debut, "The Burning Plain," opens with a wide shot of a trailer ablaze in the New Mexico desert. While the landscape appears barren and exposed, it is concealing secrets that drive the story."The Burning Plain," written and directed by the "21 Grams" and "Babel" screenwriter, stars Charlize Theron as a troubled Oregon restaurant manager who is forced to confront her past when a mysterious visitor arrives from Mexico. Kim Basinger appears in flashbacks as Sylvia's mother, Gina, at a pivotal moment in her young life.

The film, which debuts at the Venice Film Festival on Friday, is one of 21 movies competing for the Golden Lion, which will be awarded Sept. 6. Directed by Mexico-born Arriaga, it is one of five U.S. pictures in competition.

Landscape is central to the movie — which Arriaga initially had titled, "The Four Elements." Water, earth, wind and fire are present as the story moves back and forth from the searing dryness of New Mexico to the nonstop rain in Portland, Ore.

"I have always been driven to the desert. I think the landscape itself influences people in a certain way," Arriaga told a news conference. "We experienced the desert and the sun and the extreme cold in the desert to the nonstop rain in Oregon. I think the weather and the landscape also influences the character."

Cinematographer Robert Elswit, who won an Oscar for "There Will Be Blood," was lauded by Arriaga for stunning shots of the New Mexico desert and Oregon coastline.

The movie is told through four converging plot lines, and cuts back and forth through time to reveal Sylvia's story.

"This is the exploration of the mystery of a woman called Sylvia who has an emotional journey that takes her to the extremes. It explores what makes her so damaged," Arriaga said.

No stranger to flawed characters, Theron said she loved the role of Sylvia.

"You should ask people that question. Why are people so flawed? Because that's who we are," Theron said. "Why is it when you watch a film and something happens that moves you — it either moves you to tears or gives a chill down your spine — it's because we can see ourselves in that moment."

Theron, who also worked as a producer on the film, said there was a list of actresses to play the role of Gina, but they were thrilled to get Basinger.

"She's amazing," Theron said. "There is something about Kim. There's a strength with her leftover vulnerability from her 20s that's just unbelievably beautiful to watch. There are moments on the screen when she's shaking, her entire body is shaking for real. You couldn't act that

TomKat Checks Out Tropic Thunder

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 12:32:00 +0000

TomKat Checks Out Tropic Thunder

Well it looks like when Katie Holmes was spotted hopping on a helicopter with her daughter Suri on Sunday afternoon, she was headed back to Los Angeles.

And last night (August 11), the "Mad Money" babe and her husband Tom Cruise were spotted arriving on the red carpet outside the Mann's Village Theatre for the big LA premiere of "Tropic Thunder."

Holmes looked stunning in a navy blue halter-style dress teamed with a pair of matching strappy heels while her "Top Gun" stud sported a violet v-neck sweater underneath a dark blazer with jeans and sneakers.

"Tropic Thunder" opens in theaters nationwide tomorrow night (August 13) and stars Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and Robert Downey Jr.

Enjoy the pictures from the LA premiere of "Tropic Thunder" (August 11).

Paris Hilton Gets Sporty

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 12:29:00 +0000

Paris Hilton Gets Sporty

She's usually buying handbags, shoes, and fabulous clothing (or dogs, for that matter) but yesterday (August 11) Paris Hilton was all about getting sporty.

The "Stars are Blind" songstress headed over to her local Sport Chalet to pick up a new bike, inline skates, and (shocker!) a pink tennis racket. Sounds like somebody feels like getting physical.

In a recent interview, Miss Hilton talked about the hurdles she has to jump in order to be taken seriously these days. "I think people, from watching The Simple Life where I was playing this airhead, rich brat kind of character - years later, people still picture me like that, even though I'm completely different from that."

But her new role in "Repo! The Genetic Opera," (out this November) has offered her a departure from her typical character. "Just getting a role like this is huge for me because I always get offered the same role, basically playing myself. But this is different. I had loads of auditions to do - for singing and dancing and acting. Luckily I nailed them all."

Enjoy the pictures of Paris Hilton out shopping it up in LA (August 11).

Hilary Duff’s Morning Salon Stop

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 12:26:00 +0000

Hilary Duff’s Morning Salon Stop
Looking her usual cute self in a sleeved blue dress with flip-flops, Hilary Duff was spotted out for her morning routine in Toluca Lake, California on Monday (August 11).

After picking up a morning coffee, the former "Lizzie McGuire" starlet then headed off for a mani-pedi at her favorite nail salon.

Meanwhile, Hilary's also been busy filming her latest role on the Santa Monica set of her latest theatrical endeavor, "Stay Cool".

In the film, the former "Lizzie McGuire" starlet "portrays Shasta O'Neil, a sexy high school senior who flirts with the author Mark Polish (Henry McCarthy) and invites him to the prom."

Enjoy the pictures of Hilary Duff out and about in Toluca Lake (August 11).

Respects paid to comic Bernie Mac

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 12:22:00 +0000

Respects paid to comic Bernie Mac

Film star Samuel L Jackson was among thousands of mourners who gathered in Chicago for the funeral of US comedian Bernie Mac.

Jackson, who recently made the movie Soul Men with Mac, said he "was always that kid from Chicago who wanted to make everybody laugh".

The service was held at the vast House of Hope church on the city's South Side where Mac grew up.

Mac died aged 50 last week from complications caused by pneumonia.

Chicago soul

Jackson, who spoke at the church, added that he was aware the comedian was "having some health issues, but always said to me every morning that he was good".

"He never turned down that kid for an autograph," added the actor.

Chicago mayor Richard Daley also paid tribute to Mac's local roots, saying "he never lost his soul in Chicago", adding that he recently asked how he could help fight crime in the city.

Barack Obama was among those whose letter of condolence was read out at the service.

Some of Mac's comedy routines were played on large video screens at the church, with any colourful language bleeped out.

Many local people turned out to pay their respects, which halted traffic for several blocks in the area.

Mac starred in his own television show and a number of Hollywood films, including the Ocean's Eleven series after performing for years on the stand-up comedy circuit.

Spector retrial set for October

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 13:57:00 +0000

Spector retrial set for October
A murder retrial for music producer Phil Spector can go ahead in October despite defence attempts to stop it, an appeals court in California has ruled.

The court rejected a call for a stay of the trial so the defence could appeal on the grounds of double jeopardy.

Also dismissed was an assurance that prosecutors would not ask jurors to convict Spector of lesser offences.

Mr Spector is charged with killing actress Lana Clarkson. The jury in the first trial failed to reach a verdict.

The trial collapsed at the end of September 2007 after 12 days of deliberation.

A decision on a second trial has taken until now due to the commitments of the last member of his legal team.

Christopher Plourd has been involved in two death penalty cases.

Most of Mr Spector's legal team resigned or were dispensed with after the mistrial was declared, with only Mr Plourd remaining in place.

The music producer, 68, denies murdering actress Lana Clarkson at his Los Angeles mansion.

The actress was found with a gunshot wound in her mouth after a night out. During the four-month trial, defence lawyers argued it was suicide.

Mr Spector, 68, was charged with second degree murder. It falls between first degree murder - which requires proof of pre-meditation - and manslaughter.

Forensic evidence

Ms Clarkson, 40, had been working as a hostess at the House of Blues venue in Los Angeles, where she met Mr Spector on the night of her death.

The actress accompanied the producer to his mansion in the early hours of the morning but was later found in his foyer.

A holster matching the snub-nosed Colt Cobra revolver that killed Ms Clarkson was found in a drawer in the foyer.

Ms Clarkson had been working at the nightclub after struggling to find acting roles, and the trial had heard how she was despondent about her career in the months before her death.

One of the crucial questions was whether the forensic evidence proved Mr Spector was close enough to the victim to have been able to shoot her in the mouth.

Mr Spector's lawyer Linda Kenney-Baden told jurors the absence of gunshot residue and blood from his sleeves showed he had not fired the fatal shot.

The producer never took to the stand but told Esquire magazine in 2003 that Ms Clarkson had committed suicide and he had "no idea why".

Mr Spector has worked with some of the biggest names in the music business, including The Beatles, and is famous for pioneering the "Wall of Sound" recording technique in the 1960s.

Kim Kardashian with Carmen Electra in Mexico

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:41:00 +0000

Kim Kardashian with Carmen Electra in Mexico

Her new project "Disaster Movie" hits theaters August 29th, and Kim Kardashian is already hard at work on the promotional trail.

The "Keeping Up With the Kardashians" hottie was spotted down in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico on Tuesday along with co-star Carmen Electra to drum up some interest in their new movie, as well as have a little fun.

Chilling out at the LG Villa Cabo, Kim and Carmen clowned around and posed for a bunch of pictures during the Day with the Cast of Disaster Movie event.

And it sounds like Kim is continuing to expand her career, this time with a spot on the new season of Dancing With the Stars. An insider has revealed that Miss Kardashian has, indeed, signed on for the gig.

She'll join Toni Braxton, Ty Murray, Dan Marino, Lance Bass, and Florence Henderson. A show source told press, "The cast is eclectic and diverse: We've got young, old, dance professionals and people who've never danced before. Some of the cast are already starting to work out and train, even though they won't meet their dance partners for a few more weeks. It's shaping up to be the most fun season yet!"

Enjoy the pictures of Kim Kardashian and Carmen Electra enjoying theie "Disaster Movie" promotional duties (August

Hilary Duff: Staying Cool in Santa Clara

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 03:28:00 +0000

Hilary Duff: Staying Cool in Santa Clara

Maintaining a grueling summer shooting schedule, Hilary Duff was all over the Santa Clara, California set of her new movie "Stay Cool" Tuesday afternoon (August 5).

And the "So Yesterday" hottie underwent quite a transformation after arriving on the set, starting in a two-toned tubetop and denim cutoff shorts, and ending up in a sexy blue ruffly strapless dress.

"Stay Cool" is another foray into the sexpot realm for Duff, who recently won acclaim for her steamy portrayal of Yonica Babyyeah in the critically-praised "War, Inc."

In the new film, Hilary plays Shasta O'Neil, a sexy high school senior who flirts with the much-older author Mark Polish, eventually inviting him to be her date to the prom.

Enjoy the pictures of Hilary Duff out working on her new movie "Stay Cool" (August 5).

Rafael Nadal: More Beach Fun

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 08:00:00 +0000

Rafael Nadal: More Beach Fun
When you're being hailed as possibly the best player in all of tennis, you deserve a little pampering. And Rafael Nadal was once again spotted relaxing in the Mallorca sun over the weekend, along with his sweetie.

The Wimbledon champion looked to be having a grand time as he chilled out on the Manacor sand with girlfriend Maria Francisa Perello and a few friends.

And it sounds like the tennis stud may be giving a whole new meaning to the popular celebrity phrase 'star power.' It seems he has an asteroid named after him.

That's right, asteroid '128036' has been renamed Rafael Nadal. The 4-kilometer-in-diameter planetoid is located between Mars and Jupiter and travels through space at a speed of 20km per second.

Enjoy the pictures of Rafael Nadal enjoying a little beach time with his girlfriend (July 12).

Leighton Meester is Summertime Sexy

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 07:58:00 +0000

Leighton Meester is Summertime Sexy

Now that we're well into July, the summer heat is in full force. And Leighton Meester was spotted sweating it out in New York City over the weekend.

Saturday afternoon, the Gossip Girl gal was out and about in Manhattan, looking beautiful, albeit a bit on the toasty side, in a belted summery dress teamed with a pair of aviator sunglasses and leather strappy sandals.

On the previous day, Miss Meester saw fit to take her pooch for a walk, only to find out that the furry friend had a little business of its own to attend to. Never fear, like a responsible dog owner, Leighton picked up the poo and carried on.

And the Lucky magazine cover girl will be hitting the airwaves in September with an all-new season of Gossip Girl on the CW!

Enjoy the pictures of Leighton Meester enjoying her weekend off from work in NYC (July 11-12).

Shannen Doherty back in '90210' 'hood this fall

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 17:29:00 +0000

Shannen Doherty back in '90210' 'hood this fall
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (AP) — Brenda Walsh is all grown-up and returning to Beverly Hills, 90210, this fall. But cast members of the new CW spin-off, "90210," are speculating whether Shannen Doherty will be equally mature when she reprises her role as Walsh. "I have heard some of the stories," "90210" star AnnaLynne McCord said of the sometimes-volatile relationship between Doherty and co-star Jennie Garth on the original series, which aired from 1990-2000.

Garth is returning to her role as Kelly Taylor, now a school guidance counselor, on "90210."

In the new series, Doherty's Walsh is now a famous theater director invited back to West Beverly Hills High School to stage a musical, CW announced Saturday at a Television Critics Association meeting in, of course, Beverly Hills.

Her guest role plays out over multiple episodes, the network said.

"If she and Jennie have it out while I'm there, OK, then, all right, so that's the story," McCord said of any possible discord during production.

"We're co-workers, we're going to be co-stars and I want to treat her (Doherty) with the respect that I would treat any other co-star," said McCord, who played the evil Eden on FX's "Nip/Tuck."

Ryan Eggold, McCord's co-star, is betting the Doherty vibe "will be 100 percent fine for us, for the new kids, because we have no history with her. We have no problems with her and I'm sure she's going to come to this with a wonderful attitude."

Added executive producer Gabe Sachs, "There isn't any tension. No one's been on the set yet but I think they'll be OK," he says of Garth and Doherty. Then he laughed. "I don't think they've gotten together and had dinner yet," he told The Associated Press.

Doherty's publicist did not immediately respond to an e-mail request for comment Saturday night.

McCord paid Doherty a compliment.

"I love Shannen Doherty. She, from a very young age, had the 'it' factor. Shannen Doherty is the epitome of what a talented young actor was, back in the day," McCord said.

When Doherty left the original series in 1994, Doherty called it a mutual decision with the series' producer and said she was "miserable" working on the show. The young actress had captured headlines with off-screen escapades such as brawls.

Also starring on "90210" is Tori Spelling, daughter of the late "Beverly Hills 90210" creator Aaron Spelling, reprising her role as Donna Martin, now an upscale boutique-owner.

The drama about Beverly Hills angst and affluence premieres Sept. 2.

Cameron Diaz: Lucky in Love

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:15:00 +0000

Cameron Diaz: Lucky in Love

She's had a little extra bounce in her step these days thanks to her budding romance with British model Paul Sculfor. And Cameron Diaz looks like she may be falling in love.

The "Charlie's Angels" babe was spotted on her way home from the gym following an intense workout session in Beverly Hills, California. And she looked fit and trim in a blue scoopneck top overtop a black workout shirt with a pair of black yoga pants and sneakers.

Interestingly enough, Cameron is dating Jennifer Aniston's ex, while Jennifer is dating John Mayer - an ex of Diaz's. But according to a source, the two ladies have already cleared things with each other.

"Jennifer is friends with Cameron. They had a chat about the situation because Cameron felt a bit awkward about dating Jen's ex. But Jennifer is really easy-going and cool about it."

And Diaz just can't seem to get enough sexy Sculfor. "Cameron and Paul have been spending every night together. He doesn't have a house in Los Angeles and Cameron doesn't mind him staying with her. When he dated Jennifer Aniston he used to stay at hotels, but Cameron likes him a lot and always wants to be around him."

Enjoy the pictures of Cameron Diaz making her way to the gym yesterday afternoon (July 9).

Alicia Keys: Doing it for the Kids

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:10:00 +0000

Alicia Keys: Doing it for the Kids

Part of being an uber-successful celebrity is giving back to the less fortunate. And Alicia Keys was spotted in London last night hamming it up at her charity benefit.

The "Fallin" singer brought her half-brother Cole as her date to the Alicia Keys Keep a Child Alive Black Ball held at St. John's Smith Square.

And she looked absolutely glamorous in a black dress with a white embroidered plunging neckline that walked the balance beam between sexy and scandalous.

When she's not raising money for at-risk kids, Alicia is working on getting the gig as singer for the title song for the next James Bond 007 movie "Quantum of Solace." And according to an insider she's got the gig. "I believe Alicia is the winner," said the source.

Enjoy the pictures of Alicia Keys at the UK Black Ball (July

Katie Holmes goes back to TV roots on `Eli Stone'

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:58:00 +0000

Katie Holmes goes back to TV roots on `Eli Stone'
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Former "Dawson's Creek" star Katie Holmes will revisit her TV roots with a guest role on "Eli Stone" this fall.Holmes was courted by Greg Berlanti, who was a producer on "Dawson's Creek" and is the co-creator and executive producer of ABC's drama about a lawyer (Jonny Lee Miller) who gains prophetic powers.

The idea of bringing Holmes aboard came up in a discussion about how to expand the show's audience in its sophomore year. Berlanti told his fellow producers he was willing to approach Holmes.

"I went and I begged her and she said, `I'd love to,'" Berlanti told a meeting of the Television Critics Association. He called Holmes "an incredible actress and a good friend."

The episode with Holmes, in which she displays her singing and dancing skills, is the season's second and will air Oct. 21. Berlanti declined to detail the story line.

"Eli Stone" has turned musical in the past, with pop star George Michael performing in the series' debut episode. There are plans for Michael to return, possibly on a December episode, Berlanti said.

Holmes, who played Joey Potter on "Dawson's Creek" from 1998 to 2003, has worked in films including "Batman Begins" and "Thank You for Smoking" and is married to Tom Cruise. She's scheduled to make her Broadway debut Sept. 18 in a revival of Arthur Miller's "All My Sons."

Miller can boast a high-profile ex-wife: Angelina Jolie, who gave birth last week to twins with partner Brad Pitt.

When a reporter asked if Jolie might appear on "Eli Stone" and if Miller would be willing to call her, the actor replied: "You'll have to call her, I'm afraid."

Al Reynolds 'still very much' loves Star Jones

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 08:06:00 +0000

Al Reynolds 'still very much' loves Star Jones

LOS ANGELES - Al Reynolds continues to have a soft spot for Star Jones, despite their impending divorce. "I still very much love her," Reynolds told The Associated Press on Monday. "I do. I can't lie to you."

Jones' soon-to-be ex-husband is opening up about his relationship with the former co-host of ABC's "The View" in an interview being posted Tuesday on YouTube.

"I was approached by a number of media outlets to do interviews, and most of them wanted me to trash my wife," Reynolds told the AP during a telephone interview Monday. "I wasn't interested in participating in the sensationalism."

Instead, the interview was filmed last month at the home of Reynolds' publicist, Howard Bragman. Jones filed for divorce from Reynolds in March after three years of marriage.

Reynolds said his marriage to Jones began to unravel last year when Jones was launching her truTV talk show and Reynolds began teaching at Florida Memorial University in Miami. He said the pair separated in February, and he was served divorce papers in March. Reynolds was surprised when Jones issued a public statement about the dissolution of their marriage in April.

"I don't know if I can point to a specific thing that happened," said Reynolds. "I felt like we started to grow apart. I took a position down in Florida. I started working aggressively on my book. She was trying to get her show off the ground. We were also trying to deal with all the negative stuff after we allowed the media into our marriage."

Reynolds, who now divides his time between New York and Miami, said he's not gay, and the Internet and tabloid speculation about his sexuality — several bloggers refer to him as "Big Gay Al" — has damaged his professional reputation. The 37-year-old former banker said he has not dated anyone since the end of his relationship with Jones, nor has he spoken to the former prosecutor.

"I feel like I've still got a little bit of healing to do," said Reynolds. "I'm not sure I could open that emotional side of myself up to anyone else right now. After the divorce is final, I'll probably be a little bit more interested in that. Right now, I'm focusing on teaching and finishing my doctorate degree."

Jones and Reynolds tied the knot in an over-the-top ceremony in November 2004. Jones was criticized for endlessly discussing the wedding and plugging its sponsors on "The View." The negative reaction to the affair, which was attended by guests ranging from Hillary Rodham Clinton to Spike Lee, was cited by Barbara Walters as a reason why Jones' contract wasn't renewed in 2006.

Reynolds — who is originally from Horse Pasture, Va. — now agrees the wedding spun out of control but claims he thought such behavior was customary for celebrity nuptials. Reynolds is currently working on a financial help book aimed at the middle-to-low class, and tentatively titled "Bank On It." He says he's not interested in using the divorce as opportunity to fade out of the spotlight.

"I'm not a fade-away type of guy," said Reynolds. "I'm a guy who progresses and moves forward. I was successful before I met Star, and I plan to be successful after Star. I'm in the public eye now. That's the truth. It comes with responsibilities. I'm using it as an opportunity to educate and motivate people."

Gwyneth Paltrow: Sexy and Sensuous

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 08:01:00 +0000

Gwyneth Paltrow: Sexy and Sensuous
While her hubby Chris Martin is off touring for his band Coldplay's new album "Viva La Vida", Gwyneth Paltrow is busying herself with her own agenda of swanky industry events.

The "Shakespeare in Love" actress was spotted leaving the Waverly Inn after attending the afterparty for the launch of Estee Lauder's Sensuous fragrance over at Bloomingdales where she played the role of spokesmodel.

The sexy mother-of-two looked amazing in a white plunging neckline Giambattista Valli dress complete with a gothy-looking pair of Yves Saint Laurent lace-up heels.

Earlier in the day, Paltrow was joined by Carolyn Murphy, Elizabeth Hurley, and Hilary Rhoda - all spokeswomen for Lauder fragrances - at the actual launch event at iconic Bloomingdales department store.

Enjoy the pictures of Gwyneth Paltrow at the Waverly Inn and the Estee Lauder Sensuous launch (July

New animated show `Cleveland' goes multiethnic

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 07:45:00 +0000

New animated show `Cleveland' goes multiethnic

LOS ANGELES - A "Family Guy" spinoff show featuring the character of Cleveland Brown is mixing up its voice cast, ethnically speaking.Mike Henry, who is white, will continue to provide the voice for Cleveland on Fox's new animated series. Joining Henry in the cast will be black actors Sanaa Lathan, Nia Long and Kevin Michael Richardson, the network announced Monday.

Fox programming chief Kevin Reilly said the casting wasn't provoked by ribbing the network has taken for a black role voiced by a white actor.

"Mike's been doing that character for a long time, so we knew going in that was a fix, we're going to have a white guy," he said at a Television Critics Association meeting, responding to a reporter's question.

"But clearly, the idea was just to make an ethnically diverse show in front of and behind the camera, which we are," and to create a largely African-American cast for the Brown family, Reilly said.

Lathan will play Cleveland's wife, Donna, while Long will voice the character of rebellious stepdaughter Roberta. In a colorblind casting move, Richardson will play the part of Lester, described as a "redneck."

"Cleveland" follows the Browns as they move to Cleveland's Virginia hometown and encounter neighbors including Lester, a family of bears and a British family enamored with the Victorian era, Fox said.

The show is set for a 2009 debut.

Reilly was asked about a general lack of ethnic diversity across the broadcast landscape this fall, despite years of lobbying by Hispanic, black and other civil rights group for more minority representation among actors and in producing and decision-making jobs.

"I do think, across the board, Fox's numbers actually are pretty respectable," Reilly said. "But this fall, I think, is just somewhat a product of the strike, not as much new product."

Reilly referred to a 100-day writers' guild strike that disrupted series production last season and the making of fall TV pilots.

A stalement in talks between the Screen Actors Guild and producers have raised fears of another costly work stoppage, but both sides have said they want to avoid a rerun

Kim Kardashian’s Holiday Shopping Spree

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 07:40:00 +0000

Kim Kardashian’s Holiday Shopping Spree

With her football hunk boyfriend by her side, Kim Kardashian engaged in a little Independence Day shopping in Hollywood on Friday (July 4).

The "Keeping Up with the Kardashian's" star looked her usual lovely self, clad in a flowing summery dress with matching sandals while her beau, Reggie Bush, kept things casual in a white t-shirt, jeans and sneakers.

Meanwhile, as previously reported by Fropki.com, Kim has proudly announced that she's in the development stages of her own signature fragrance, and she hopes to have it on the shelves of your local department stores by Mother's Day 2009.

She wrote, "It has always been a dream of mine to start my own perfume business, since I love to mix fragrances together and come up with new and different scents! I hope you understand my total excitement as I let you, the readers of my blog, become the first to know that I am creating my own fragrance!!!"

Enjoy the pictures of Kim Kardashian and Reggie Bush out shopping in Hollywood (July 4).

Rihanna Goes Shopping with the Girls

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 11:55:00 +0000

Rihanna Goes Shopping with the Girls

This girl is so stylish she even looks photo-shoot-ready when she's running errands. And Rihanna was spotted out and about yesterday in West Hollywood.

The "Take a Bow" songstress was joined by a few gal pals as she enjoyed some time off from her usual promotional and performing duties (over the weekend she sang two songs for Pete Wentz's FNMTV show). And she looked adorable in a black top with matching skirt and a pair of serious black leather boots.

Rihanna's relationship with Chris Brown has long been the topic of conversation in the gossip world. Recently the "Kiss Kiss" stud divulged a bit more information that usual about his "Umbrella" babe.

Brown told press, "Our relationship is growing. We started off as friends and we're getting a little bit closer now. My mom is real cool about it all. They both have light skin with green eyes, so."

Enjoy the pictures of Rihanna out shopping it up on Sunday (June 29).

With new CD, Faith Hill in Christmas mood already

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 11:01:00 +0000

With new CD, Faith Hill in Christmas mood already
LOS ANGELES (Billboard) - It's summer and it's hot, but even so, Faith Hill is quick to warm up to talk about Christmas. Which is more than appropriate as she starts promoting the first Christmas album of her 15-year career, "Joy to the World," due September 16 on Warner Bros.

While many Nashville-based artists record holiday records early and relatively often, Hill's was several years in the making and intended to be her definitive take on the season. "Joy to the World" is overwhelmingly a collection of standards, be it the big, booming orchestral arrangements of the title track or "Oh, Holy Night" or swinging, big-band, vintage-sounding versions of more lighthearted fare such as "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" and "Holly, Jolly Christmas."

"I love everything about Christmas, and I have wanted to record a Christmas album since the beginning of my career," Hill said while taking a break from shooting video for potential TV spots promoting the record. The day before, Hill had been at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif., taping "Sunday Night Football" promo spots with a group of NFL stars.

Even as the industry craters, holiday-themed records remain a lucrative niche for labels. Josh Groban's "Noel" (2007) has moved 6.7 million copies in the United States for Warner Bros., flirting with Kenny G's "Miracles-The Holiday Album" from 1994, the top-selling Christmas album of the Nielsen SoundScan era (1991-present). On the country side, Toby Keith's Christmas album "A Toby Keith Classic Christmas" sold 294,000 last year.

Hill was in stores last year with a greatest-hits package that sold just 257,000 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan. She has moved more than 19 million albums in her career, topped by the 6.5 million copies of "Breathe" in 1999. Her last studio set, 2005's "Fireflies" has sold more than 2.2 million copies.

Work on "Joy" started three years ago, but the project was sidetracked by the "Fireflies" and hits packages, not to mention the massive, record-breaking Soul2Soul II tour with her husband, Tim McGraw, in 2007-08. When those projects wrapped, Hill returned to the Christmas album.

Song selection was one of the "toughest things" about putting the project together, Hill said. She didn't take the easy road, instead choosing challenging vocals, complicated lyrics and ambitious melodic structure. The album plays to her strengths as an unmistakably Southern soulful chanteuse and also conjures a vintage feel that would work in any era.

"Fortunately, most of these songs I've known my entire life," she said. "On some of them I was used to singing the lyric I grew up with, which was not really always the original lyric. I guess over time things just change, or people take their own interpretation of what the song was originally."

The more-spiritual songs on the record, such as "Oh Come All Ye Faithful," "Joy" and "Silent Night," feature the Nashville String Machine with conductor Carl Gorodetzky and were recorded live in the studio with Hill's vocals.

"I've performed with an orchestra but I've never recorded with an orchestra live," she said. "I don't read music, and certainly it was difficult for me to read the scores, I really couldn't. So (arranger/conductor) David Campbell had quite a task put in front of him to direct the orchestra, as well as me. That was quite a challenge, but it worked out in the end."

After a long layoff, the album was completed early this year, and Hill said it was surprisingly easy to resurrect the "spirit."

"When we got into the studio this last time to complete it, it had been 18 months since we had heard the tracks. And all of us just sat there, turned off the vocal and just listened to the tracks of this Christmas music," she said. "We were all commenting on how fresh it was and how exciting it was to be back on the project. You would think it would be difficult with it not being the Christmas season, but when you record something that you're really proud of, it kind of stands the test of time, any time of the year."

Hill won't tour to promote this release, but a wide range of multimedia promotional initiatives are being lined up. Hill has scheduled a special-edition "Soundstage" performance of her Christmas album that will be broadcast on PBS and also air elsewhere, said her manager, Gary Borman.

He added that Hill's team is in discussions with a network about Hill and her Christmas music "participating in a major way" in an existing prime-time special.

Beyond all the marketing, setup and commercial opportunity, Hill is sincere in touting the record's higher purpose.

"I want it to be spiritual, I don't want to forget why we even celebrate Christmas," she said. "To me these songs are powerful and meaningful, and I want this to be the only Christmas album I'll ever record. And hopefully in 50 years it will sound as good as it does now. That's the intent behind it."

Reuters/Billboard

Obama: Media response to Iraq remarks overblown

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 12:05:00 +0000

Obama: Media response to Iraq remarks overblown
ST. LOUIS - Barack Obama celebrated "active faith" as an obligation of religious Americans and a chief agent of societal change while speaking Saturday to a nearly all-black roomful of churchgoers, but hoping to reach far beyond them.Earlier in the day as he flew from Montana to Missouri, Obama told reporters he was surprised at how the media has "finely calibrated" his recent words on Iraq, and reaffirmed his commitment to ending the war if elected.

Making a less than two-hour stop in the battleground state of Missouri, the Democratic presidential nominee implored the thousands attending a national meeting of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, one of the nation's largest and most politically and civically active black denominations, to help fix national and local ills.

He preached individual responsibility, saying he knew he risked criticism for "blaming the victim" by talking of the need for parents to help children with homework and turn off the TV, to pass on a healthy self-image to daughters, and teach boys both to respect women and "realize that responsibility does not end at conception."

But Obama's main message was the government's duty to address what he said are "moral problems" — such as war, poverty, joblessness, homelessness, violent streets and crumbling schools — and to employ religious institutions to do it.

"As long as we're not doing everything in our individual and collective power to solve the challenges we face, the conscience of our nation cannot rest," he said.

Obama, who has made history by becoming the first black major-party presidential nominee, made frequent references to the civil rights movement and continuing struggles in the black community.

"We are not constrained by the accident of birth but can make of our lives what we will," Obama said. He was greeted when he arrived in the vast hall by the most thunderous cheering, waving and screaming that he has heard all week.

It was also his most enthusiastic delivery of late, employing preacher's cadences that were interrupted frequently by "Amens" and "yes."

Obama repeatedly referenced his religious faith in terms that would be familiar to white evangelicals as well as his black audience. Obama has highlighted faith and personal story over the past week as he campaigned in one-time GOP strongholds and talked more about God, country, and service than about rival Republican John McCain.

He hopes to draw more support from evangelical Christian voters than is typical for Democratic presidential candidates. Analysts are skeptical he can do that because of his support for abortion, gay rights and other issues.

And Obama was perplexed that his statement on Iraq was dissected as it was.

"I was a little puzzled by the frenzy that I set off by what I thought was a pretty innocuous statement," he said. "I am absolutely committed to ending the war."

On Thursday in North Dakota, Obama said that "I'll ... continue to refine my policy" on Iraq after an upcoming trip there. With a promise to end the war the central premise of his candidacy, the Obama campaign has struggled over the past two days to push back against Republicans and others who say his recent statement could be a softening or change in policy.

Obama has always said his promise to end the war would require consultations with military commanders and, possibly, flexibility.

"The tactics of how we ensure our troops are safe as we pull out, how we execute the withdrawal, those are things that are all based on facts and conditions," he said. "I am not somebody — unlike George Bush — who is willing to ignore facts on the basis of my preconceived notions."

McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds said Obama needs to "understand that his words matter."

"We are all absolutely committed to ending this war, but on Thursday Barack Obama's words indicated that he also shared John McCains commitment to securing the peace beforehand," he said.

The Illinois senator also said he and rival-turned-ally Hillary Rodham Clinton plan to raise money together in a series of fundraisers in New York during the coming week.

Two events are scheduled for Wednesday night — one for his campaign and one to help Clinton pay off debts from her primary race against him. A third, for Obama, is a cash-collecting breakfast Thursday morning with women.

The fundraisers will be the first joint appearances by the former foes since their lovefest in Unity, N.H., on June 27.

Obama said his aides and those to former President Clinton are still arranging their first campaign appearances together. What role Bill Clinton will play in Obama's campaign has been a glaring question mark ever since the former president made comments earlier this year that Obama's supporters said injected race into the nomination contest.

Obama plans to campaign next week in North Carolina, Georgia and Virginia, all Southern states that have been the province of Republicans but where his campaign thinks he can make inroads — or even win — in part because of their large black populations.

It "would be pretty foolish" not to try, Obama said.

"Democrats can't shrink the map and win," he told reporters. "The solid South for Republicans is part of that shrinkage of the map. ... I want to be greedy."

Before leaving Montana, Obama spoke via satellite to a conference of the National Education Association, the largest teachers union.

Jessica Biel: Dog Days of Summer

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:50:00 +0000

Jessica Biel: Dog Days of Summer

With her man Justin Timberlake hard at work overseas, Jessica Biel seems to have found a suitable companion to keep her company - her dog.

The "Powder Blue" hottie was spotted out and about in Brentwood, California yesterday enjoying some exercise and camaraderie with her pet pooch as she sipped an iced coffee.

Along with her 'anti-paparazzi' attitude, Biel wore a mauve Henley-style top underneath a grey duster sweater with a pair of jeans, sunglasses, and sneakers.

As previously reported by the Fropki.com, it seems Jess' new living arrangement with her "SexyBack" sweetie has caused some waves for them both, although they're learning how to deal.

An insider told press, "Justin's been a bachelor for a long time. They're both used to doing things their way and having specific things in the fridge. They've had to readjust where the beer, water and peanut butter go to make room for each other's favorite foods."

Enjoy the pictures of Jessica Biel out walking Tina (June 25).

Call girl in Spitzer case drops "Gone Wild" suit

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 07:33:00 +0000

Call girl in Spitzer case drops "Gone Wild" suit

Larry Harmon, longtime Bozo the Clown, dies at 83A statement from an attorney for Ashley Alexandra Dupre said the complaint, filed in April in federal court in Miami and alleging illegal use of Dupre's name and image, was withdrawn on Thursday.

"Ms. Dupre wants to eliminate all negativity from her life and focus on the positive. She has prospects for many exciting new projects and is looking forward to starting a new chapter," the statement said.

In the lawsuit, Dupre contended she was 17 and not old enough to sign a legally binding contract when she appeared partially nude in video footage filmed in 2003 by members of Francis' Mantra Films production company in Miami Beach.

On spring break vacation at the time, she was drunk when told to sign a video release form, according to the complaint, which sought damages in excess of $10 million.

Francis had denied the allegations.

Dupre was identified in media reports in March as the woman named "Kristen" linked to "Client 9," the frequent client of an upscale prostitution ring.

U.S. media, citing unnamed law enforcement sources, have said Spitzer was the anonymous "Client 9."

Reuters/Nielsen

Kylie Minogue receives OBE

noreply@blogger.com (ahmednisha) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:07:00 +0000

Kylie Minogue receives OBE

LONDON (Reuters) - Kylie Minogue, the former soap actress who become one of the world's most famous female recording artists, was honored for her services to music on Thursday. A beaming Minogue, who recently overcame breast cancer, received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) from Prince Charles, who was standing in for the Queen Elizabeth at the ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

"It is an incredible honor for me to receive this award. It makes me feel both humble and proud to be recognized for doing a job that I love so much," she said.

Minogue became a household name in Britain in the 1980s after starring as Charlene in the Australian TV soap "Neighbours."

She turned to music after leaving the popular show, releasing her first single "Locomotion" in 1987 and has continued to enjoy huge chart success with songs such as "Can't Get You Out Of My Head" and "Spinning Around."

In 2005 she was diagnosed with breast cancer but returned to performing after recovering from surgery and chemotherapy.

Earlier this year, Minogue received one of France's top cultural awards when she was made a Chevalier dans l'ordre des Arts et Lettres (Knight of Arts and Letters) for "the cultural pleasure she has given French people."

Minogue has also written a children's book, launched a perfume, and designed her own lingerie range.

(Reporting by Michael Holden)