Baz Luhrmann’s epic coming of age musical drama comes to an emotionally thrilling and satisfying conclusion in The Get Down Part 2. This stylized account of the rise of rap and hip hop in 1970’s Bronx, New York picks up one year following the events of Part One, which introduced us to an enormous cast of unique characters including young high school lovers Ezekiel ‘Books’ Figuero (Justice Smith) and Mylene Cruz (Herizen F. Guardiola).
By the end of that initial six episode arc, Books and his friends had formed the Get Down Brothers and were ready to take over the Bronx with their new style of music. Meanwhile, Mylene Cruz and the Soul Madonnas’ had their first hit single and seemed on their way to conquering the gospel music charts. Ezekiel and Mylene’s love story is a major driving force of the narrative but The Get Down is so...
By the end of that initial six episode arc, Books and his friends had formed the Get Down Brothers and were ready to take over the Bronx with their new style of music. Meanwhile, Mylene Cruz and the Soul Madonnas’ had their first hit single and seemed on their way to conquering the gospel music charts. Ezekiel and Mylene’s love story is a major driving force of the narrative but The Get Down is so...
- 3/29/2017
- by Joseph Hernandez
- We Got This Covered
The first official poster for Zoë Saldana's upcoming film Nina has been released, leading to a chorus of criticism on social media. Following the poster reveal on Tuesday, the casting of Saldana - who is of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent - as the legendary African American singer received widespread backlash on Twitter and Instagram. We can't wait to see Zoe Saldana as #NinaSimone in a years-in-the-making biopic of the so-called “High Priestess of Soul,” in theaters this April. A photo posted by Entertainment Weekly (@entertainmentweekly) on Mar 1, 2016 at 5:13pm Pst "Question: Why did they Darken Zoe Saldana...
- 3/2/2016
- by Karen Mizoguchi
- PEOPLE.com
The first official poster for Zoë Saldana's upcoming film Nina has been released, leading to a chorus of criticism on social media. Following the poster reveal on Tuesday, the casting of Saldana - who is of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent - as the legendary African American singer received widespread backlash on Twitter and Instagram. We can't wait to see Zoe Saldana as #NinaSimone in a years-in-the-making biopic of the so-called “High Priestess of Soul,” in theaters this April. A photo posted by Entertainment Weekly (@entertainmentweekly) on Mar 1, 2016 at 5:13pm Pst "Question: Why did they Darken Zoe Saldana...
- 3/2/2016
- by Karen Mizoguchi
- PEOPLE.com
Santa Monica—Sandwiched in between his two Coachella appearances, Beck came in from the dusty desert to play an intimate show for Kcrw’s Apogee Sessions here Wednesday night. The 100-minute performance was twice as long as his Coachella set and certainly under more pleasant, less blustery conditions: the cosy confines of legendary producer/mixer Bob Clearmountain’s studio, which tightly packed in 200 of the public radio station’s supporters. Beck opened with the elegant “The Golden Age” from 2002’s “Sea Change,” before gliding into three songs from his excellent new album (and “Sea Change” sequel of sorts), “Morning Phase”: the Beatle-esque “Blackbird Chain,” mournful “Say Goodbye,” and sorrowful “Don’t Let It Go.” The largely acoustic quartet of tunes allowed Beck to warm up, with his confidence seemingly growing with each song. As he noted, he’d only played the new material a handful of times, and while...
- 4/17/2014
- by Melinda Newman
- Hitfix
On the second-to-last day of filming for the upcoming James Brown biopic, Get On Up, Chadwick Boseman, resplendent in a mustard-colored mock turtleneck, dark vest and dark pants, slides across the stage of the Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson, Mississippi, spins around, punches the air with the microphone stand to punctuate the horn line from Brown's "I Got the Feelin'," then dips back toward the band to sing, "Baby, baby, baby/baby, baby, baby." Today, the Coliseum is a stand-in for Boston Garden, and Boseman is playing Brown during a famous 1968 show,...
- 2/4/2014
- Rollingstone.com
Anita Mui 1963-2003
Anita Mui had a fantastic screen presence, an actress and a musician, she also did lots of work for charity. In the 80′s she became a household name within the music world and was dubbed the “Madonna of Asia”. She had a series of shows entitled the “Anita Classic Moment Live Concert” that consisted of eight shows at the Hong Kong Coliseum from 6 to 11 November and 14 to 15 November 2003, which were to be her last concerts before her death.
Anita made some great movies and was always surrounded by a great cast. Some movies you should check out are Behind the Yellow Line, Rouge, The Heroic Trio, Drunken Master 2, Miracles, Saviour of the Soul, Moon Warriors and many more.
Mui was originally cast in Zhang Yimou’s House of Flying Daggers (2004), but she resigned only two weeks before her death. Zhang had reserved her scenes to be shot...
Anita Mui had a fantastic screen presence, an actress and a musician, she also did lots of work for charity. In the 80′s she became a household name within the music world and was dubbed the “Madonna of Asia”. She had a series of shows entitled the “Anita Classic Moment Live Concert” that consisted of eight shows at the Hong Kong Coliseum from 6 to 11 November and 14 to 15 November 2003, which were to be her last concerts before her death.
Anita made some great movies and was always surrounded by a great cast. Some movies you should check out are Behind the Yellow Line, Rouge, The Heroic Trio, Drunken Master 2, Miracles, Saviour of the Soul, Moon Warriors and many more.
Mui was originally cast in Zhang Yimou’s House of Flying Daggers (2004), but she resigned only two weeks before her death. Zhang had reserved her scenes to be shot...
- 12/31/2013
- by kingofkungfu
- AsianMoviePulse
If you compare last night’s episode of Real Husbands of Hollywood to the band New Edition, then Bobby Brown was Bobby Brown and Kevin Hart was Ronnie, Ricky, or Mike. As in, firmly in the background. Not to say Kevin was bad, but Bbd has nothing on Bobby Brown. Plus, now that Whitney Houston is presumably in heaven pushing Michael Jackson out as a soloist in Heaven’s Soul Choir, someone’s got to be Bobby’s champion down here. With that in mind, I’d like to first focus on the Kang of R&B portion of the program. Fyi: I’m listening to Bobby Brown: The Definitive Collection while writing this.So Bobby was back on the show to focus on his seventh or eight comeback attempt. If you recall, on a previous episode he was working with Nelly on new tracks. However, Bobby brought in...
- 11/20/2013
- by Michael Arceneaux
- Vulture
The 2012 Annual American Music Awards were held in Los Angeles on Sunday night at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles, CA. Following Usher's opening medley of songs that included "Numb," "Climax," and "Can't Stop, Won't Stop," Ryan Seacrest introduced what would be the first of many past Ama moments to be shown during the broadcast in honor of it's 40th Anniversary. Artists such as Beyonce, a pint-sized Janet Jackson, Will Smith, 'N Sync, and Michael Jackson were among those featured in vintage clips throughout the evening. Justin Bieber and Nicki Minaj pretty much owned the night in terms of awards and performances. In the wake of Bieber's recent and widely publicized split from Selena Gomez, however, the 18-year old seemed a bit sullen. When accepting his first nod for Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist, he was uncharacteristically negative saying, "This is for all the haters that thought I was here...
- 11/19/2012
- by jmaurer@corp.popstar.com (Jennifer Maurer)
- PopStar
On Thursday 16th August the BBC Asian Network is paying tribute to the late world renowned musician Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, to commemorate the 15th anniversary of his death. Considered one of the greatest singers ever recorded, his talent mesmerised audiences all over the world and continues to do so.
Khaliq Meer, Editor, BBC Asian Network, said: “Anyone who enjoys some form of South Asian music will have come across or heard music influenced by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Utterly brilliant and a true pioneer. He was to Qawwali music what Michael Jackson was to Pop, Pavarotti to Opera and James Brown to Soul.”
It will be a day full of the esteemed musician’s music, check out what you will hear when you tune in!
In the morning, Raj and Pablo are doing the breakfast show (7am-10am) and speak to Bally Sagoo, who remixed some of Nusrat’s greatest songs.
Khaliq Meer, Editor, BBC Asian Network, said: “Anyone who enjoys some form of South Asian music will have come across or heard music influenced by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Utterly brilliant and a true pioneer. He was to Qawwali music what Michael Jackson was to Pop, Pavarotti to Opera and James Brown to Soul.”
It will be a day full of the esteemed musician’s music, check out what you will hear when you tune in!
In the morning, Raj and Pablo are doing the breakfast show (7am-10am) and speak to Bally Sagoo, who remixed some of Nusrat’s greatest songs.
- 8/15/2012
- by Stacey Yount
- Bollyspice
Sunday 15th of July saw Salim-Sulaiman take to the stage to entertain a packed audience at London’s Hammersmith Apollo, the beautiful art deco theatre which has hosted many legends such as The Beatles and Bob Marley. Bollyspice was there to catch it all and to share the highlights of the evening for those of you who were unfortunate enough to miss it…
Salim-Sulaiman are a pair of extremely talented musician brothers, who started off composing background movie scores for Bollywood films. They are now successful music-directors, who have worked extensively with Yash Raj films (Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Band Baaja Baaraat), amongst many others. They have also worked with acclaimed international stars like Lady Gaga.
Salim opened the evening sharing with the audience how they have been recording in the studios for the last fifteen years and only now felt that they could bring their music to the stage in London.
Salim-Sulaiman are a pair of extremely talented musician brothers, who started off composing background movie scores for Bollywood films. They are now successful music-directors, who have worked extensively with Yash Raj films (Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Band Baaja Baaraat), amongst many others. They have also worked with acclaimed international stars like Lady Gaga.
Salim opened the evening sharing with the audience how they have been recording in the studios for the last fifteen years and only now felt that they could bring their music to the stage in London.
- 7/18/2012
- by Anjum Shabbir
- Bollyspice
Alicia Keys takes the place of Aretha Franklin and many other stars attend, including R Kelly, Kevin Costner and Stevie Wonder
For those of us who had long admired her work, it would have felt rude not to look in on Whitney Houston's funeral, or "Homecoming", as it was dubbed, held at the place where she first sang gospel as a girl – New Hope Baptist church in Newark, New Jersey; although maybe not as rude as allowing the world's cameras into the church, while cordoning off the roads to keep her fans away.
Before the ceremony, the roads were festooned with balloons, flowers and messages, while commentators suddenly stopped babbling about hotel death-baths, the notorious Diane Sawyer interview ("Crack is whack!"), and ex-husbands, and instead started talking more quietly about gold coffins, half-mast flags, and Houston's devastated loved ones, daughter Bobbi Kristina, mother Cissy, cousin, Dionne et al.
Still,...
For those of us who had long admired her work, it would have felt rude not to look in on Whitney Houston's funeral, or "Homecoming", as it was dubbed, held at the place where she first sang gospel as a girl – New Hope Baptist church in Newark, New Jersey; although maybe not as rude as allowing the world's cameras into the church, while cordoning off the roads to keep her fans away.
Before the ceremony, the roads were festooned with balloons, flowers and messages, while commentators suddenly stopped babbling about hotel death-baths, the notorious Diane Sawyer interview ("Crack is whack!"), and ex-husbands, and instead started talking more quietly about gold coffins, half-mast flags, and Houston's devastated loved ones, daughter Bobbi Kristina, mother Cissy, cousin, Dionne et al.
Still,...
- 2/19/2012
- by Barbara Ellen
- The Guardian - Film News
The Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin says she was so shocked by the death of Whitney Houston that she jumped out of bed when she heard the news.
Franklin spoke to the Today Show's Al Roker on Friday about her reaction to the news, which she heard on television while in a hotel room in Charlotte, Nc. "I just jumped up off the side of the bed... and thought what, this could not be, what is this? I just said 'Oh, my God, that's not good.'"
Aretha Asked To Perform at Whitney's Funeral
Franklin is set to perform along with Stevie Wonder and others at Houston's funeral Saturday in New Jersey, but said she's not yet sure what she'll sing. She said news of her goddaughter's death was particularly shocking because recently she thought the superstar was looking "fresh, healthy and gorgeous." She added: "And I thought, 'Yes, she has conquered her challenges and was on...
Franklin spoke to the Today Show's Al Roker on Friday about her reaction to the news, which she heard on television while in a hotel room in Charlotte, Nc. "I just jumped up off the side of the bed... and thought what, this could not be, what is this? I just said 'Oh, my God, that's not good.'"
Aretha Asked To Perform at Whitney's Funeral
Franklin is set to perform along with Stevie Wonder and others at Houston's funeral Saturday in New Jersey, but said she's not yet sure what she'll sing. She said news of her goddaughter's death was particularly shocking because recently she thought the superstar was looking "fresh, healthy and gorgeous." She added: "And I thought, 'Yes, she has conquered her challenges and was on...
- 2/17/2012
- Entertainment Tonight
On the Hart of Dixie, Wilson Bethel is frequently called upon to remove his shirt, and he's fine with that. "We live in the modern world. And I'm not above recognizing what purpose six separate abdominal muscles serve to the collective consciousness."
Vanity Fair's Brett Berk took in the concepts at the Detroit Auto Show and managed to compare trends in design that worked, with some ideas that maybe didn't. And while yes, I totally prefer the Camaro Zl-1, I think he was mean to the cute little Mini Roadster.
Despite believing myself to be a sharp critic of media who can spot negative portrayals of subgroups I don't belong to, I never considered the leprosy joke in The Pirates! Band of Misfits to be out of line, not realizing leprosy was a current problem. But after some education, the producers are editing both the movie and the trailer to remove the joke.
Vanity Fair's Brett Berk took in the concepts at the Detroit Auto Show and managed to compare trends in design that worked, with some ideas that maybe didn't. And while yes, I totally prefer the Camaro Zl-1, I think he was mean to the cute little Mini Roadster.
Despite believing myself to be a sharp critic of media who can spot negative portrayals of subgroups I don't belong to, I never considered the leprosy joke in The Pirates! Band of Misfits to be out of line, not realizing leprosy was a current problem. But after some education, the producers are editing both the movie and the trailer to remove the joke.
- 1/25/2012
- by lostinmiami
- The Backlot
Exclusive: As part of new CW president Mark Pedowitz’s promise to keep the network’s lights on during the summer, the CW is nearing a deal to acquire upcoming Canadian soap The L.A. Complex. The network is in final negotiations to buy the 6 already produced episodes of the series, which premieres on specialty channel MuchMusic next week and will later air on sibling broadcaster CTV. It may also pick up 7 more for a 13-episode run. Created by Canadian writer-producer Martin Gero, L.A. Complex has drawn comparisons to the long-running Canadian teen soap Degrassi, which is produced by the same company, Epitome Pictures. In the vein of Melrose Place, which the CW remade a couple of years ago, L.A. Complex revolves around twenty-somethings living in the same La apartment complex as they try to make it in Tinseltown. The series features an international cast: Jonathan Patrick Moore (Neighbours) as Connor,...
- 1/5/2012
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
Move over, "Melrose Place" -- there's a new, er, place to be.
But unlike the small apartment building in West Hollywood that housed a doctor, a social worker and a bad-boy handyman, the dwellers of The Lux in new MuchMusic series "The L.A. Complex" are more like aspiring actress Sandy and struggling writer Billy.
The new original scripted drama is from the producers of classic teen opus "Degrassi," and centres on a group of people with stars in their eyes as they deal with the "real" reality of showbiz.
"The L.A. Complex," created and executive-produced by Martin Gero ("Bored to Death," "Young People Fucking"), stars Jonathan Patrick Moore ("Neighbours") as Connor, a breakout Australian with a dark past; Cassie Steele ("Degrassi") as Abby, a Toronto girl ready to fight to get to the top in Tinseltown (eerily similar to her real-life experience); Joe Dinicol ("Life With Derek") as Nick, a...
But unlike the small apartment building in West Hollywood that housed a doctor, a social worker and a bad-boy handyman, the dwellers of The Lux in new MuchMusic series "The L.A. Complex" are more like aspiring actress Sandy and struggling writer Billy.
The new original scripted drama is from the producers of classic teen opus "Degrassi," and centres on a group of people with stars in their eyes as they deal with the "real" reality of showbiz.
"The L.A. Complex," created and executive-produced by Martin Gero ("Bored to Death," "Young People Fucking"), stars Jonathan Patrick Moore ("Neighbours") as Connor, a breakout Australian with a dark past; Cassie Steele ("Degrassi") as Abby, a Toronto girl ready to fight to get to the top in Tinseltown (eerily similar to her real-life experience); Joe Dinicol ("Life With Derek") as Nick, a...
- 1/4/2012
- by The Huffington Post TV Canada
- Aol TV.
Review Of The Year
It's been an incredible year in the world of showbiz, with the usual headline-grabbing antics, scandal, sleaze, celebrity births, star weddings, and bitter break-ups. Here, WENN takes a look back at the final six months of 2011...
July
The month of July was overshadowed by the sudden and shocking death of British singer Amy Winehouse. The Back to Black hitmaker was found dead at her home in London at the age of 27 and the news sent the world of showbusiness into mourning. Tributes poured in from both fans and famous friends following the tragedy, and Winehouse's music shot back into the charts.
The headlines were also dominated by celebrity divorces as Jennifer Lopez announced her split from husband of seven years, Marc Anthony, the father of her young twins, Max and Emme. Arnold Schwarzenegger's marriage also came to an abrupt end as his wife Maria Shriver filed for divorce following revelations the actor/politician fathered a lovechild with the family's housekeeper.
Scarlett Johansson's divorce from Ryan Reynolds was finalised and Patricia Arquette's split from husband Thomas Jane was also made official.
In happier news, all eyes were on Monaco as the world geared up for the second royal wedding of the year, following the union of Britain’s Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge in April. In the same month as the British royals flew to Canada to begin their first international tour as a married couple, Prince Albert of Monaco married his fiancee, South African beauty Charlene Wittstock. The couple exchanged vows in two ceremonies in Monte Carlo and the former swimmer became her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of Monaco. British supermodel Kate Moss also became a married woman as she wed rocker Jamie Hince in a lavish ceremony in the English countryside, while it was also an exciting month for the Beckham family as former Spice Girls star Victoria, already mother to three boys, gave birth to her first daughter, Harper Seven.
There was also baby joy for Hollywood actress Kate Hudson - she welcomed a son called Bingham with her rocker fiance Matt Bellamy. Singer Jewel, actress Selma Blair and former Fugees star Lauryn Hill also became parents. British artist/director Sam Taylor-Wood also hit headlines after she confirmed she was expecting a second baby with her 21-year-old fiance, actor Aaron Johnson, a year after the birth of their daughter. The couple met on the set of their 2009 film Nowhere Boy and became parents together in 2010.
July also saw troubled British rocker Pete Doherty granted his freedom after serving less than half of his six-month prison sentence for cocaine possession. Another beleaguered star to walk free from jail was rapper Dmx, who served seven months behind bars for a probation violation. However, David Gilmour’s son Charlie found himself on the other side of the prison walls as he was ordered to serve 16 months in jail for his part in the 2010 student riots in London. The Pink Floyd star’s son was charged with violent disorder for causing chaos in the British capital and swinging from a flag on the city’s Cenotaph war memorial. (Lr/Zn)
August
The usual serenity of the summer months was shattered this year when Kate Winslet cheated death in a devastating inferno at Richard Branson's luxury island home, and a string of British stars appealed for calm as widespread rioting broke out in the U.K.
Winslet was holidaying at Virgin boss Branson's Necker Island retreat when lightning struck the property, sparking a huge blaze which gutted the home. Her party of 20 miraculously escaped unscathed - and Winslet was later hailed a heroine after it emerged she carried Branson's 90-year-old mother from the property during the drama.
As unrest, looting, and arson broke out for several nights in the U.K., showbiz stars including Idris Elba, Natasha Bedingfield and Boy George called for calm, and there was also bad news for Sir Paul McCartney - who learned his phone had been hacked by the tabloid press - and veteran actress Margot Kidder, who was arrested during an environment protest at the White House.
Tragedy struck at the Indiana State Fair, when a horrific stage collapse left seven revellers dead and more than 40 injured, actor Rowan Atkinson was treated in hospital after wrecking his rare sports car by crashing it into a tree, and French actor Gerard Depardieu was left red-faced when he was thrown off a plane in Paris, France for urinating in the cabin after he was refused access to the toilet during take-off.
It was ladies night at the MTV Video Music Awards as Katy Perry, Britney Spears and Lady Gaga took home two honours each - and Beyonce announced her pregnancy news. And at the Teen Choice Awards, Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez were crowned queens of the event when they scooped whopping 11 awards between them.
Kings of Leon finally succumbed to their relentless touring schedule and axed their remaining U.S. dates to allow frontman Caleb Followill to recover from "vocal issues and exhaustion", Aerosmith rocker Tom Hamilton and Deep Purple star Jon Lord both announced they were battling cancer, Bono was hospitalised with chest pains, and Norwegian pop band A-ha thrilled fans by announcing they were to reform.
In family news, Kiss star Paul Stanley became a father again, and there were also welcome additions for Ethan Hawke, funnywoman Tina Fey, illusionist David Copperfield, Jessica Alba, and Benicio del Toro, who fathered a child with Rod Stewart's daughter Kimberly.
There were wedding bells for country singer Chely Wright and filmmaker Sofia Coppola, but romance took a plunge for George Michael and Geri Halliwell, who both split from their partners. Also joining the singles club was Arctic Monkeys rocker Alex Turner, who broke up with MTV presenter Alexa Chung after four years together.
The showbiz world bid farewell to songwriting legend Jerry Leiber, who died of cardiopulmonary failure at the age of 78, Police Academy star Charles 'Bubba' Smith, Bollywood veteran Shammi Kapoor, blues legend David 'Honeyboy' Edwards, Warrant rocker Jani Lane, and Motown hitmaker Nickolas Ashford. (Zn/Lr)
September
September was a month rapper T.I. would like to both remember and forget - he completed an 11-month prison sentence for a probation violation only to run into legal trouble again soon after his initial release for conducting illegal business deals on his way to a halfway house. It wasn't a great month for Madonna either - her movie take on the romance between Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII was savaged by critics at the Venice Film Festival, while her ex-husband Guy Ritchie became a dad again.
Celine Dion was left shaken up after an intruder was found running a bath at her Montreal, Canada home; Neil Diamond revealed his engagement, and Dr. Conrad Murray's involuntary manslaughter trial got underway in Los Angeles as prosecutors attempted to prove the medic was responsible for Michael Jackson's death.
R.E.M. announced they were splitting after 31 years; My Chemical Romance fired drummer Michael Pedicone after accusing him of stealing from them; Boyzone singer Ronan Keating swam the Irish Sea for Cancer Research in the U.K., and Sir Paul McCartney became a grandfather again and was named the MusiCares Person of the Year - while he also celebrated as his first ballet score debuted in New York.
The Amy Winehouse Foundation was launched on what would have been the tragic singer's 28th birthday, and the star's Body & Soul duet with Tony Bennett became a hit, making the 85-year-old crooner the oldest living artist to have a single in America's Hot 100.
Eddie Murphy was confirmed as the host for the 2012 Oscars; model Lauren Bush became Lauren Lauren when she exchanged vows with Ralph Lauren's son David; British funnyman David Walliams braved the chills of the River Thames and a stomach bug to complete a charity 140-mile swim in eight days.
Actress Evan Rachel Wood lost a tooth during a boozy night out in Paris; Reese Witherspoon was hospitalised after she was hit by a car while out jogging in Santa Monica, California; soul legend Chaka Khan won temporary custody of her granddaughter after claiming the girl's mother was struggling with drug abuse issues, and British The Saturdays singer Una Healy announced she was pregnant.
Inxs dropped frontman J.D. fortune for a second time and replaced him with Ciaran Gribbin; Austin Powers henchman Joseph Son was sentenced to life behind bars for a Christmas Eve rape in 1990, and George Clooney went public with his new girl, Stacey Kiebler, at the Toronto Film Festival in Canada.
Ashton Kutcher had a month of ups and downs - his debut on TV sitcom Two and a Half Men was a big hit as 28 million Americans tuned in, but then came the news that his marriage to Demi Moore was in trouble amid infidelity rumours. Comedienne Wanda Sykes opened up about her breast cancer battle and double mastectomy; Sharon Stone won a restraining order against an obsessed fan and promptly put the home he visited uninvited on the market, and reality TV star and filmmaker Jack Osbourne announced his engagement to actress Lisa Stelly and followed that up with the news he was to become a dad.
Third time was not the charm for Clueless star Stacy Dash, who announced her plans to divorce husband number three, Emmanuel Xuereb, and X-Men star James Marsden's wife also joined the divorce club as she filed papers against her husband. Elizabeth Hurley's love life was on the up - she accepted cricket star Shane Warne's wedding proposal just three months after divorcing Arun Nayar.
Meanwhile, Elton John launched his new Million Dollar Piano residency in Las Vegas; Smokey Robinson accepted the coveted Ella Award at the Society of Singers Gala, and the month wrapped up with Shania Twain's alleged stalker pleading guilty to harassing the singer in court in Ontario, Canada.
Among September's Hollywood weddings, Amy Smart married reality TV star Carter Oosterhouse; Cougar Town co-stars David Rogers and Sally Pressman became man and wife, and model-turned-actress Molly Sims wed in a Napa Valley vineyard in California. There were also nuptials for British filmmaker Michael Winner and DJ/producer Mark Ronson, while R&B singer Keyshia Cole and former Friends star David Schwimmer both renewed vows with their spouses in Hawaii and London, respectively.
There was baby news for model Jodie Kidd, who gave birth to a son; actress Mary McCormack, who became a mum for the third time, and January Jones, who welcomed Xander Dane to the world while staying mum about the tot's father. Actors Emily Deschanel, Ana Ortiz, Mike Myers, Danny McBride and Jenna Fischer also became new parents. In the music world, former Spice Girl Melanie Brown gave birth to her third daughter, and country star John Rich and former Pussycat Dolls member Carmit Bachar welcomed babies too.
On September's sick list were rocker Scott Weiland and pop stars Katy Perry and Adele, who both scrapped shows due to illness, while Megadeth headbanger Dave Mustaine underwent surgery for a serious neck injury.
The month's big winners included movie mogul Tyler Perry, who was named Forbes magazine's Highest Paid Man in Entertainment; actor Michael Fassbender and director Alexander Sokurov, who claimed Best Actor and Best Film honours, respectively, for Shame and Faust at the Venice Film Festival. Gritty TV drama Boardwalk Empire picked up eight Emmy Awards; Calle 13 landed a record 10 Latin Grammy Award nominations, and Happy Days star Henry Winkler picked up an honorary Order of the British Empire medal at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Also winning: P.J. Harvey, who scooped the Mercury Prize in Britain, Arcade Fire, who claimed Canada's Polaris Prize, and U2 and Rolling Stone Keith Richards, who were named GQ magazine's Men of the Year.
September's losers included Scarlett Johansson, who was left exposed in a series of leaked naked phone photos; Cameron Diaz, who split from baseball beau Alex Rodriguez, and John Travolta, whose beloved Mercedes-Benz was stolen outside a Jaguar dealership in Santa Monica, while his Swordfish co-star Halle Berry broke her foot while on location in Spain.
Meanwhile, we said a sad goodbye to a slew of famous faces, including actors Andy Whitfield and Cliff Robertson; beloved TV stars Mary Fickett and Vesta Williams; actor Jack Garner; French DJ Mehdi Faveris-Essadi; blues great Willie 'Big Eyes' Smith; R&B hitmaker Vesta Williams; gospel icon Jessy Dixon; celebrated British writer/producer David Croft; Happy Gilmore star Frances Bay, and moviemakers David Pressman, Charles Dubin, George Kachar and Paul Hunt. (Kl/Mt)
October
October was a big month for celebrity weddings - funnyman Seth Rogen tied the knot with longtime girlfriend Lauren Miller, Twilight star Nikki Reed married singer/songwriter Paul McDonald, and former Beverly Hills, 90210 actress Shannen Doherty walked down the aisle for the third time when she exchanged vows with celebrity photographer Kurt Iswarienko. Also hoping to make it third-time lucky was Robin Williams, who wed graphic designer Susan Schneider.
Also taking the plunge was Kiss rocker Gene Simmons, who married his girlfriend of 28 years, Shannon Tweed, and Sir Paul McCartney, who exchanged vows with American heiress Nancy Shevell on what would have been his former Beatles bandmate John Lennon’s 71st birthday.
And Sex & the City star Mario Cantone made good use of New York's new gay rights bill by solidifying his love for longtime partner Jerry Dixon.
A number of other stars announced their intention to wed in October - NCIS: Los Angeles star Eric Christian Olsen proposed to girlfriend Sarah Wright and Trace Cyrus popped the question to Disney actress Brenda Song. And actress Kaley Cuoco was sporting a new sparkler after boyfriend Josh 'Lazie' Resnik got down on bended knee. Also officially off the market were former child star Frankie Muniz, The Devil Wears Prada actor Stanley Tucci, rapper The Game and Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love's grown-up little girl Francis Bean Cobain.
A number of other celebrities were prepping their homes for babies - movie star Bruce Willis, American footballer Tony Romo, former Dawson's Creek hunk James Van Der Beek, and actress Kaitlin Olson all announced they are expecting little ones, and Jessica Simpson ended months of speculation by announcing she was pregnant.
And October's new parents included Ne-Yo, who welcomed a baby boy, model Ali Landry, who gave birth to her second child, actress Spencer Grammer, who became a first time mum, and France's First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, who became a mum for the second time when baby Giulia was born. Reality TV star Tori Spelling took home baby number three, as did Jackass funnyman Johnny Knoxville. And Sex & the City beauty Kristin Davis, The Help actress Viola Davis and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation veteran Mariska Hargitay all adopted babies.
But it wasn't such a happy month for rapper Rick Ross, who suffered two seizures on his way to a concert, or socialite Kim Kardashian who filed for divorce from husband Kris Humphries after just 72 days of marriage.
In other news, Star Trek actor Zachary Quinto announced he was gay and troubled actress Lindsay Lohan had her probation revoked after failing to complete her required community service hours. She also faced a limousine lawsuit for allegedly neglecting to pay a bill, her dad was arrested - twice, and she was served a lawsuit for reportedly attacking a Betty Ford Clinic employee during her stay there last year.
Meanwhile, the stars came out to show their support for the Occupy Wall Street protests, which were originally launched in New York City in a bid to end corporate greed, and the world mourned the loss of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, British TV and radio personality Sir Jimmy Savile, The Charlie Daniels Band keyboard player Joel 'Taz' Digregorio, former Weezer star Mikey Welsh, veteran British actress Betty Driver, The Miracles guitarist Marv Tarplin, pianist Roger Williams and IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon, who died in a horrific car smash at the Indy300.
November
British bachelor Hugh Grant stunned the world when he announced he had a new love in his life - a baby girl he had fathered during a brief relationship with Chinese model/actress Tinglan Hong. He wasn't the only star to join the celebrity parents' club in November - singer Lily Allen had a reason to Smile again after giving birth to a daughter, her first child with new husband Sam Cooper, while newsman Piers Morgan and his wife Celia Walden also became parents to a little girl. Maggie Gyllenhaal and her husband Peter Sarsgaard announced they were expecting their second child, as did reality TV star Kourtney Kardashian and her partner Scott Disick.
Selena Gomez revealed she is set to become a big sister, while Justin Bieber had some unwanted baby news of his own - he found himself at the centre of a paternity scandal following allegations he had impregnated 20-year-old Mariah Yeater following a backstage tryst in Los Angeles last year. The Baby hitmaker denied the claim and Yeater subsequently dropped the lawsuit.
Lindsay Lohan's troubles hit the headlines again after she was sentenced to serve 30 days behind bars for a probation violation, although she was released after less than five hours due to jail overcrowding. Dr. Conrad Murray was not so lucky - he was convicted of involuntary manslaughter relating to the death of Michael Jackson and sentenced to the maximum of four years behind bars.
In other legal matters, country singer Mindy McCready sparked a manhunt after she took her five-year-old son Zander from his father's Florida home without permission; Tim McGraw won a court battle with his record company bosses releasing him from his contract; and TLC star T-Boz declared bankruptcy.
Hugh Grant, Sienna Miller and Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling became driving forces in the push to improve British press standards following the News of the World phone-hacking scandal earlier this year - the three stars were called to give evidence to the Leveson Inquiry and told how they had had their voicemails, emails and other private messages intercepted by private investigators working on behalf of tabloid reporters.
The sporting world mourned the death of boxing great Joe Frazier at the age of 67, just days after it was revealed he was battling liver cancer, while the hip-hop industry was rocked by the passing of rap icon Heavy D, who collapsed outside his Los Angeles home and was later declared dead at 44. British moviemaker Ken Russell also passed away, aged 84, and longtime Oscars producer Gil Cates died at 77. Meanwhile, Beatles fans remembered George Harrison on 29 November as fans marked the 10th anniversary of his death.
Veteran pop star George Michael was forced to scrap the remainder of his European tour after he was struck down by a serious bout of pneumonia; Bee Gees singer Robin Gibb also spent time in hospital after suffering abdominal pains, and Adele and Keith Urban had a quiet month as they both recovered from vocal cord surgery, while heavy rock fans rejoiced as the original members of Black Sabbath announced they would be reuniting for a new album and tour in 2012.
It was ladies' night at the American Music Awards as Taylor Swift and Adele walked away with three honours each, while Lady Gaga reigned over the MTV Europe Music Awards and newlyweds Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton ruled the Country Music Association Awards by taking home the two top vocalist prizes. November also saw Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher end weeks of speculation about their marriage by calling it quits, while Sugarland singer Jennifer Nettles tied the knot and Anne Hathaway began making plans to wed boyfriend Adam Schulman, and former The Hills star Kristin Cavallari and American footballer Jay Cutler became engaged again, months after they broke off their initial plans to marry.
And it was a busy month for the film industry - the latest Twilight movie, Breaking Dawn - Part 1, landed the biggest global debut in the film franchise's history, thanks to a massive $284 million (£177.5 million) opening weekend haul; Golden Globes bosses decided to bring back controversial comedian Ricky Gervais to host his third prizegiving in 2012; Billy Crystal stepped in for Eddie Murphy as the host of the 2012 Academy Awards a day after the comic and producer pal Brett Ratner resigned, and the race for the Oscars kicked off with the Gotham Independent Film Awards, where Terrence Malick's Tree of Life and Mike Mills' acclaimed Beginners made history when they became the first films to tie for the Best Feature prize in the ceremony's 21-year history.
December
The holiday bells were peeling for newlyweds A.J. McLean, actress Judy Greer, reality TV star Jeff Probst and Yeah Yeah Yeahs rocker Karen O, while Sinead O'Connor married an addiction counsellor in Las Vegas only to call off the union 16 days later. There were also splits for actress Debra Messing and Chaz Bono.
Britney Spears led the month's bride and grooms-to-be when she accepted former agent Jason Trawick's proposal on his 40th birthday, while Steven Tyler, John Legend, Matthew McConaughey, basketball legend Michael Jordan and Lady Antebellum's Dave Haywood all popped the question to their girlfriends - and there was baby news for new dads Robert De Niro, Halle Berry's ex Eric Benet, actor Charlie Day, Westlife star Kian Egan, actress/singer Fantasia Barrino, Essence Atkins and pop star Dev, while actress Alyson Hannigan, Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty, Kings of Leon star Caleb Followill's supermodel wife Lily Aldridge, Alessandra Ambrosio and Irish singer Andrea Corr announced they were pregnant.
There was drama for rapper Tyler, The Creator, who was arrested for alleged acts of vandalism during a show in Hollywood; singer Christina Perri, who was attacked in a car-jacking incident; Barry Manilow, who underwent hip surgery, and Morrissey, whose concert in Puebla, Mexico was evacuated following an earthquake, while Britain's Prince Philip and R&B star Etta James spent Christmas in hospital.
Lindsay Lohan bared all for Playboy magazine; Adam Lambert was arrested in Finland following a pre-Christmas bust-up with his boyfriend; rapper The Game halted a gig in Norway to confront a bottle-throwing fan; boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr. was sentenced to 90 days in jail for a 2010 fight with his ex; a man who leaked an unfinished new Madonna song online was arrested in Spain, and Michael Douglas' incarcerated son Cameron was handed an extra four-and-a-half years behind bars for another drug conviction.
And there was yet more drama for Terrence Howard, who requested a restraining order against his wife; model Lauren Scruggs, who lost her hand and an eye in a freak plane propeller accident; Hollywood couple Eric Dane and Rebecca Gayheart, who had to vacate their home after high winds brought a tree crashing into their living room, and pop star Selena Gomez suffered a family tragedy when her mother miscarried.
Meanwhile, Jodie Foster's estranged father was jailed for five years after he was found guilty of a property scam; Angelina Jolie was sued by a Croatian journalist who alleged his chronicle of the Bosnian War inspired her directorial debut; Kirsten Dunst won a restraining order against an obsessed French fan; an extra died of a heart attack while shooting The Dark Knight Rises in New York; Goodfellas actor Tony Darrow was sentenced to six months behind bars for arranging a real-life mob beating, and Charlie Sheen had to change his phone number when he accidentally tweeted it to his followers.
The month's big winners included singer Melanie Amaro, who became the first U.S. X Factor winner; Julio Iglesias, who was named Spain's best-selling recording artist of all time; Russell Simmons, who was crowned PETA's Person of the Year; Chaka Khan, who won permanent custody of her granddaughter; Lady Gaga, who was hailed the year's highest earning female musician, and Taylor Swift who picked up Billboard magazine's coveted Woman of The Year honour.
Also winning in December: Guns N' Roses, the Beastie Boys and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who were all announced as the members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2012, and Twilight star Kristen Stewart, who was named Forbes magazine's Most Lucrative Star. Adele dominated the year's end album and singles polls; Jason Newsted reunited with Metallica for their 30th anniversary bash in San Francisco, and Martin Scorsese's first 3D movie Hugo was the surprise Best Film winner at the National Board of Review Awards in America.
In other movie news, Transformers: Dark of The Moon was named the year's most mistake-ridden film; Orson Welles' Citizen Kane Oscar sold at auction for $861,000; Drive dominated the Satellite Awards while The Help, The Artist and The Descendants picked up the lion's share of nominations for the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Angelina Jolie's directorial debut, In The Land of Blood and Honey, also picked up Golden Globes nods and she was named the 2012 recipient of the Stanley Kramer Award at the Producer's Guild of America Awards.
In music news, Amy Winehouse's posthumous album debuted at number one in Britain; 30 Seconds To Mars broke a concert record at a show in New York - their 309th in a single album cycle, and Gucci Mane was released from prison.
Wrapping up the month, Oscar winner Colin Firth was immortalised in wax at Madame Tussauds in London; Men's Health magazine bosses crowned Jennifer Aniston the Hottest Woman of All Time; Liz Taylor's diamonds and gems set a new auction record by becoming the most valuable private jewellery collection; Lmfao were forced to abandon a gig in Honduras after a fire broke out at the venue; Welsh opera star Katherine Jenkins announced her split from fiance Gethin Jones, and Coldplay rang in 2012 with a $1.6 million gig in Abu Dhabi.
And the last month of the year saw the notable deaths of actor Bill McKinney, soul stars Dobie Gray and Howard Tate, M*A*S*H regular Harry Morgan, Clark Gable and Loretta Young's love child Judy Lewis, actress Doe Avedon Siegel, former child star Susan Gordon, country singer Billie Jo Spears, Aussie actor Graham Bown, world leaders Vaclav Havel and Kim Jong-Il, songwriter Ralph MacDonald, Kojak star Dan Frazer, directors Don Sharp and Yoshimitsu Morita, writer Christopher Hitchens and Tarzan's chimp sidekick Cheetah, who died of liver failure, aged 80.
July
The month of July was overshadowed by the sudden and shocking death of British singer Amy Winehouse. The Back to Black hitmaker was found dead at her home in London at the age of 27 and the news sent the world of showbusiness into mourning. Tributes poured in from both fans and famous friends following the tragedy, and Winehouse's music shot back into the charts.
The headlines were also dominated by celebrity divorces as Jennifer Lopez announced her split from husband of seven years, Marc Anthony, the father of her young twins, Max and Emme. Arnold Schwarzenegger's marriage also came to an abrupt end as his wife Maria Shriver filed for divorce following revelations the actor/politician fathered a lovechild with the family's housekeeper.
Scarlett Johansson's divorce from Ryan Reynolds was finalised and Patricia Arquette's split from husband Thomas Jane was also made official.
In happier news, all eyes were on Monaco as the world geared up for the second royal wedding of the year, following the union of Britain’s Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge in April. In the same month as the British royals flew to Canada to begin their first international tour as a married couple, Prince Albert of Monaco married his fiancee, South African beauty Charlene Wittstock. The couple exchanged vows in two ceremonies in Monte Carlo and the former swimmer became her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of Monaco. British supermodel Kate Moss also became a married woman as she wed rocker Jamie Hince in a lavish ceremony in the English countryside, while it was also an exciting month for the Beckham family as former Spice Girls star Victoria, already mother to three boys, gave birth to her first daughter, Harper Seven.
There was also baby joy for Hollywood actress Kate Hudson - she welcomed a son called Bingham with her rocker fiance Matt Bellamy. Singer Jewel, actress Selma Blair and former Fugees star Lauryn Hill also became parents. British artist/director Sam Taylor-Wood also hit headlines after she confirmed she was expecting a second baby with her 21-year-old fiance, actor Aaron Johnson, a year after the birth of their daughter. The couple met on the set of their 2009 film Nowhere Boy and became parents together in 2010.
July also saw troubled British rocker Pete Doherty granted his freedom after serving less than half of his six-month prison sentence for cocaine possession. Another beleaguered star to walk free from jail was rapper Dmx, who served seven months behind bars for a probation violation. However, David Gilmour’s son Charlie found himself on the other side of the prison walls as he was ordered to serve 16 months in jail for his part in the 2010 student riots in London. The Pink Floyd star’s son was charged with violent disorder for causing chaos in the British capital and swinging from a flag on the city’s Cenotaph war memorial. (Lr/Zn)
August
The usual serenity of the summer months was shattered this year when Kate Winslet cheated death in a devastating inferno at Richard Branson's luxury island home, and a string of British stars appealed for calm as widespread rioting broke out in the U.K.
Winslet was holidaying at Virgin boss Branson's Necker Island retreat when lightning struck the property, sparking a huge blaze which gutted the home. Her party of 20 miraculously escaped unscathed - and Winslet was later hailed a heroine after it emerged she carried Branson's 90-year-old mother from the property during the drama.
As unrest, looting, and arson broke out for several nights in the U.K., showbiz stars including Idris Elba, Natasha Bedingfield and Boy George called for calm, and there was also bad news for Sir Paul McCartney - who learned his phone had been hacked by the tabloid press - and veteran actress Margot Kidder, who was arrested during an environment protest at the White House.
Tragedy struck at the Indiana State Fair, when a horrific stage collapse left seven revellers dead and more than 40 injured, actor Rowan Atkinson was treated in hospital after wrecking his rare sports car by crashing it into a tree, and French actor Gerard Depardieu was left red-faced when he was thrown off a plane in Paris, France for urinating in the cabin after he was refused access to the toilet during take-off.
It was ladies night at the MTV Video Music Awards as Katy Perry, Britney Spears and Lady Gaga took home two honours each - and Beyonce announced her pregnancy news. And at the Teen Choice Awards, Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez were crowned queens of the event when they scooped whopping 11 awards between them.
Kings of Leon finally succumbed to their relentless touring schedule and axed their remaining U.S. dates to allow frontman Caleb Followill to recover from "vocal issues and exhaustion", Aerosmith rocker Tom Hamilton and Deep Purple star Jon Lord both announced they were battling cancer, Bono was hospitalised with chest pains, and Norwegian pop band A-ha thrilled fans by announcing they were to reform.
In family news, Kiss star Paul Stanley became a father again, and there were also welcome additions for Ethan Hawke, funnywoman Tina Fey, illusionist David Copperfield, Jessica Alba, and Benicio del Toro, who fathered a child with Rod Stewart's daughter Kimberly.
There were wedding bells for country singer Chely Wright and filmmaker Sofia Coppola, but romance took a plunge for George Michael and Geri Halliwell, who both split from their partners. Also joining the singles club was Arctic Monkeys rocker Alex Turner, who broke up with MTV presenter Alexa Chung after four years together.
The showbiz world bid farewell to songwriting legend Jerry Leiber, who died of cardiopulmonary failure at the age of 78, Police Academy star Charles 'Bubba' Smith, Bollywood veteran Shammi Kapoor, blues legend David 'Honeyboy' Edwards, Warrant rocker Jani Lane, and Motown hitmaker Nickolas Ashford. (Zn/Lr)
September
September was a month rapper T.I. would like to both remember and forget - he completed an 11-month prison sentence for a probation violation only to run into legal trouble again soon after his initial release for conducting illegal business deals on his way to a halfway house. It wasn't a great month for Madonna either - her movie take on the romance between Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII was savaged by critics at the Venice Film Festival, while her ex-husband Guy Ritchie became a dad again.
Celine Dion was left shaken up after an intruder was found running a bath at her Montreal, Canada home; Neil Diamond revealed his engagement, and Dr. Conrad Murray's involuntary manslaughter trial got underway in Los Angeles as prosecutors attempted to prove the medic was responsible for Michael Jackson's death.
R.E.M. announced they were splitting after 31 years; My Chemical Romance fired drummer Michael Pedicone after accusing him of stealing from them; Boyzone singer Ronan Keating swam the Irish Sea for Cancer Research in the U.K., and Sir Paul McCartney became a grandfather again and was named the MusiCares Person of the Year - while he also celebrated as his first ballet score debuted in New York.
The Amy Winehouse Foundation was launched on what would have been the tragic singer's 28th birthday, and the star's Body & Soul duet with Tony Bennett became a hit, making the 85-year-old crooner the oldest living artist to have a single in America's Hot 100.
Eddie Murphy was confirmed as the host for the 2012 Oscars; model Lauren Bush became Lauren Lauren when she exchanged vows with Ralph Lauren's son David; British funnyman David Walliams braved the chills of the River Thames and a stomach bug to complete a charity 140-mile swim in eight days.
Actress Evan Rachel Wood lost a tooth during a boozy night out in Paris; Reese Witherspoon was hospitalised after she was hit by a car while out jogging in Santa Monica, California; soul legend Chaka Khan won temporary custody of her granddaughter after claiming the girl's mother was struggling with drug abuse issues, and British The Saturdays singer Una Healy announced she was pregnant.
Inxs dropped frontman J.D. fortune for a second time and replaced him with Ciaran Gribbin; Austin Powers henchman Joseph Son was sentenced to life behind bars for a Christmas Eve rape in 1990, and George Clooney went public with his new girl, Stacey Kiebler, at the Toronto Film Festival in Canada.
Ashton Kutcher had a month of ups and downs - his debut on TV sitcom Two and a Half Men was a big hit as 28 million Americans tuned in, but then came the news that his marriage to Demi Moore was in trouble amid infidelity rumours. Comedienne Wanda Sykes opened up about her breast cancer battle and double mastectomy; Sharon Stone won a restraining order against an obsessed fan and promptly put the home he visited uninvited on the market, and reality TV star and filmmaker Jack Osbourne announced his engagement to actress Lisa Stelly and followed that up with the news he was to become a dad.
Third time was not the charm for Clueless star Stacy Dash, who announced her plans to divorce husband number three, Emmanuel Xuereb, and X-Men star James Marsden's wife also joined the divorce club as she filed papers against her husband. Elizabeth Hurley's love life was on the up - she accepted cricket star Shane Warne's wedding proposal just three months after divorcing Arun Nayar.
Meanwhile, Elton John launched his new Million Dollar Piano residency in Las Vegas; Smokey Robinson accepted the coveted Ella Award at the Society of Singers Gala, and the month wrapped up with Shania Twain's alleged stalker pleading guilty to harassing the singer in court in Ontario, Canada.
Among September's Hollywood weddings, Amy Smart married reality TV star Carter Oosterhouse; Cougar Town co-stars David Rogers and Sally Pressman became man and wife, and model-turned-actress Molly Sims wed in a Napa Valley vineyard in California. There were also nuptials for British filmmaker Michael Winner and DJ/producer Mark Ronson, while R&B singer Keyshia Cole and former Friends star David Schwimmer both renewed vows with their spouses in Hawaii and London, respectively.
There was baby news for model Jodie Kidd, who gave birth to a son; actress Mary McCormack, who became a mum for the third time, and January Jones, who welcomed Xander Dane to the world while staying mum about the tot's father. Actors Emily Deschanel, Ana Ortiz, Mike Myers, Danny McBride and Jenna Fischer also became new parents. In the music world, former Spice Girl Melanie Brown gave birth to her third daughter, and country star John Rich and former Pussycat Dolls member Carmit Bachar welcomed babies too.
On September's sick list were rocker Scott Weiland and pop stars Katy Perry and Adele, who both scrapped shows due to illness, while Megadeth headbanger Dave Mustaine underwent surgery for a serious neck injury.
The month's big winners included movie mogul Tyler Perry, who was named Forbes magazine's Highest Paid Man in Entertainment; actor Michael Fassbender and director Alexander Sokurov, who claimed Best Actor and Best Film honours, respectively, for Shame and Faust at the Venice Film Festival. Gritty TV drama Boardwalk Empire picked up eight Emmy Awards; Calle 13 landed a record 10 Latin Grammy Award nominations, and Happy Days star Henry Winkler picked up an honorary Order of the British Empire medal at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Also winning: P.J. Harvey, who scooped the Mercury Prize in Britain, Arcade Fire, who claimed Canada's Polaris Prize, and U2 and Rolling Stone Keith Richards, who were named GQ magazine's Men of the Year.
September's losers included Scarlett Johansson, who was left exposed in a series of leaked naked phone photos; Cameron Diaz, who split from baseball beau Alex Rodriguez, and John Travolta, whose beloved Mercedes-Benz was stolen outside a Jaguar dealership in Santa Monica, while his Swordfish co-star Halle Berry broke her foot while on location in Spain.
Meanwhile, we said a sad goodbye to a slew of famous faces, including actors Andy Whitfield and Cliff Robertson; beloved TV stars Mary Fickett and Vesta Williams; actor Jack Garner; French DJ Mehdi Faveris-Essadi; blues great Willie 'Big Eyes' Smith; R&B hitmaker Vesta Williams; gospel icon Jessy Dixon; celebrated British writer/producer David Croft; Happy Gilmore star Frances Bay, and moviemakers David Pressman, Charles Dubin, George Kachar and Paul Hunt. (Kl/Mt)
October
October was a big month for celebrity weddings - funnyman Seth Rogen tied the knot with longtime girlfriend Lauren Miller, Twilight star Nikki Reed married singer/songwriter Paul McDonald, and former Beverly Hills, 90210 actress Shannen Doherty walked down the aisle for the third time when she exchanged vows with celebrity photographer Kurt Iswarienko. Also hoping to make it third-time lucky was Robin Williams, who wed graphic designer Susan Schneider.
Also taking the plunge was Kiss rocker Gene Simmons, who married his girlfriend of 28 years, Shannon Tweed, and Sir Paul McCartney, who exchanged vows with American heiress Nancy Shevell on what would have been his former Beatles bandmate John Lennon’s 71st birthday.
And Sex & the City star Mario Cantone made good use of New York's new gay rights bill by solidifying his love for longtime partner Jerry Dixon.
A number of other stars announced their intention to wed in October - NCIS: Los Angeles star Eric Christian Olsen proposed to girlfriend Sarah Wright and Trace Cyrus popped the question to Disney actress Brenda Song. And actress Kaley Cuoco was sporting a new sparkler after boyfriend Josh 'Lazie' Resnik got down on bended knee. Also officially off the market were former child star Frankie Muniz, The Devil Wears Prada actor Stanley Tucci, rapper The Game and Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love's grown-up little girl Francis Bean Cobain.
A number of other celebrities were prepping their homes for babies - movie star Bruce Willis, American footballer Tony Romo, former Dawson's Creek hunk James Van Der Beek, and actress Kaitlin Olson all announced they are expecting little ones, and Jessica Simpson ended months of speculation by announcing she was pregnant.
And October's new parents included Ne-Yo, who welcomed a baby boy, model Ali Landry, who gave birth to her second child, actress Spencer Grammer, who became a first time mum, and France's First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, who became a mum for the second time when baby Giulia was born. Reality TV star Tori Spelling took home baby number three, as did Jackass funnyman Johnny Knoxville. And Sex & the City beauty Kristin Davis, The Help actress Viola Davis and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation veteran Mariska Hargitay all adopted babies.
But it wasn't such a happy month for rapper Rick Ross, who suffered two seizures on his way to a concert, or socialite Kim Kardashian who filed for divorce from husband Kris Humphries after just 72 days of marriage.
In other news, Star Trek actor Zachary Quinto announced he was gay and troubled actress Lindsay Lohan had her probation revoked after failing to complete her required community service hours. She also faced a limousine lawsuit for allegedly neglecting to pay a bill, her dad was arrested - twice, and she was served a lawsuit for reportedly attacking a Betty Ford Clinic employee during her stay there last year.
Meanwhile, the stars came out to show their support for the Occupy Wall Street protests, which were originally launched in New York City in a bid to end corporate greed, and the world mourned the loss of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, British TV and radio personality Sir Jimmy Savile, The Charlie Daniels Band keyboard player Joel 'Taz' Digregorio, former Weezer star Mikey Welsh, veteran British actress Betty Driver, The Miracles guitarist Marv Tarplin, pianist Roger Williams and IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon, who died in a horrific car smash at the Indy300.
November
British bachelor Hugh Grant stunned the world when he announced he had a new love in his life - a baby girl he had fathered during a brief relationship with Chinese model/actress Tinglan Hong. He wasn't the only star to join the celebrity parents' club in November - singer Lily Allen had a reason to Smile again after giving birth to a daughter, her first child with new husband Sam Cooper, while newsman Piers Morgan and his wife Celia Walden also became parents to a little girl. Maggie Gyllenhaal and her husband Peter Sarsgaard announced they were expecting their second child, as did reality TV star Kourtney Kardashian and her partner Scott Disick.
Selena Gomez revealed she is set to become a big sister, while Justin Bieber had some unwanted baby news of his own - he found himself at the centre of a paternity scandal following allegations he had impregnated 20-year-old Mariah Yeater following a backstage tryst in Los Angeles last year. The Baby hitmaker denied the claim and Yeater subsequently dropped the lawsuit.
Lindsay Lohan's troubles hit the headlines again after she was sentenced to serve 30 days behind bars for a probation violation, although she was released after less than five hours due to jail overcrowding. Dr. Conrad Murray was not so lucky - he was convicted of involuntary manslaughter relating to the death of Michael Jackson and sentenced to the maximum of four years behind bars.
In other legal matters, country singer Mindy McCready sparked a manhunt after she took her five-year-old son Zander from his father's Florida home without permission; Tim McGraw won a court battle with his record company bosses releasing him from his contract; and TLC star T-Boz declared bankruptcy.
Hugh Grant, Sienna Miller and Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling became driving forces in the push to improve British press standards following the News of the World phone-hacking scandal earlier this year - the three stars were called to give evidence to the Leveson Inquiry and told how they had had their voicemails, emails and other private messages intercepted by private investigators working on behalf of tabloid reporters.
The sporting world mourned the death of boxing great Joe Frazier at the age of 67, just days after it was revealed he was battling liver cancer, while the hip-hop industry was rocked by the passing of rap icon Heavy D, who collapsed outside his Los Angeles home and was later declared dead at 44. British moviemaker Ken Russell also passed away, aged 84, and longtime Oscars producer Gil Cates died at 77. Meanwhile, Beatles fans remembered George Harrison on 29 November as fans marked the 10th anniversary of his death.
Veteran pop star George Michael was forced to scrap the remainder of his European tour after he was struck down by a serious bout of pneumonia; Bee Gees singer Robin Gibb also spent time in hospital after suffering abdominal pains, and Adele and Keith Urban had a quiet month as they both recovered from vocal cord surgery, while heavy rock fans rejoiced as the original members of Black Sabbath announced they would be reuniting for a new album and tour in 2012.
It was ladies' night at the American Music Awards as Taylor Swift and Adele walked away with three honours each, while Lady Gaga reigned over the MTV Europe Music Awards and newlyweds Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton ruled the Country Music Association Awards by taking home the two top vocalist prizes. November also saw Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher end weeks of speculation about their marriage by calling it quits, while Sugarland singer Jennifer Nettles tied the knot and Anne Hathaway began making plans to wed boyfriend Adam Schulman, and former The Hills star Kristin Cavallari and American footballer Jay Cutler became engaged again, months after they broke off their initial plans to marry.
And it was a busy month for the film industry - the latest Twilight movie, Breaking Dawn - Part 1, landed the biggest global debut in the film franchise's history, thanks to a massive $284 million (£177.5 million) opening weekend haul; Golden Globes bosses decided to bring back controversial comedian Ricky Gervais to host his third prizegiving in 2012; Billy Crystal stepped in for Eddie Murphy as the host of the 2012 Academy Awards a day after the comic and producer pal Brett Ratner resigned, and the race for the Oscars kicked off with the Gotham Independent Film Awards, where Terrence Malick's Tree of Life and Mike Mills' acclaimed Beginners made history when they became the first films to tie for the Best Feature prize in the ceremony's 21-year history.
December
The holiday bells were peeling for newlyweds A.J. McLean, actress Judy Greer, reality TV star Jeff Probst and Yeah Yeah Yeahs rocker Karen O, while Sinead O'Connor married an addiction counsellor in Las Vegas only to call off the union 16 days later. There were also splits for actress Debra Messing and Chaz Bono.
Britney Spears led the month's bride and grooms-to-be when she accepted former agent Jason Trawick's proposal on his 40th birthday, while Steven Tyler, John Legend, Matthew McConaughey, basketball legend Michael Jordan and Lady Antebellum's Dave Haywood all popped the question to their girlfriends - and there was baby news for new dads Robert De Niro, Halle Berry's ex Eric Benet, actor Charlie Day, Westlife star Kian Egan, actress/singer Fantasia Barrino, Essence Atkins and pop star Dev, while actress Alyson Hannigan, Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty, Kings of Leon star Caleb Followill's supermodel wife Lily Aldridge, Alessandra Ambrosio and Irish singer Andrea Corr announced they were pregnant.
There was drama for rapper Tyler, The Creator, who was arrested for alleged acts of vandalism during a show in Hollywood; singer Christina Perri, who was attacked in a car-jacking incident; Barry Manilow, who underwent hip surgery, and Morrissey, whose concert in Puebla, Mexico was evacuated following an earthquake, while Britain's Prince Philip and R&B star Etta James spent Christmas in hospital.
Lindsay Lohan bared all for Playboy magazine; Adam Lambert was arrested in Finland following a pre-Christmas bust-up with his boyfriend; rapper The Game halted a gig in Norway to confront a bottle-throwing fan; boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr. was sentenced to 90 days in jail for a 2010 fight with his ex; a man who leaked an unfinished new Madonna song online was arrested in Spain, and Michael Douglas' incarcerated son Cameron was handed an extra four-and-a-half years behind bars for another drug conviction.
And there was yet more drama for Terrence Howard, who requested a restraining order against his wife; model Lauren Scruggs, who lost her hand and an eye in a freak plane propeller accident; Hollywood couple Eric Dane and Rebecca Gayheart, who had to vacate their home after high winds brought a tree crashing into their living room, and pop star Selena Gomez suffered a family tragedy when her mother miscarried.
Meanwhile, Jodie Foster's estranged father was jailed for five years after he was found guilty of a property scam; Angelina Jolie was sued by a Croatian journalist who alleged his chronicle of the Bosnian War inspired her directorial debut; Kirsten Dunst won a restraining order against an obsessed French fan; an extra died of a heart attack while shooting The Dark Knight Rises in New York; Goodfellas actor Tony Darrow was sentenced to six months behind bars for arranging a real-life mob beating, and Charlie Sheen had to change his phone number when he accidentally tweeted it to his followers.
The month's big winners included singer Melanie Amaro, who became the first U.S. X Factor winner; Julio Iglesias, who was named Spain's best-selling recording artist of all time; Russell Simmons, who was crowned PETA's Person of the Year; Chaka Khan, who won permanent custody of her granddaughter; Lady Gaga, who was hailed the year's highest earning female musician, and Taylor Swift who picked up Billboard magazine's coveted Woman of The Year honour.
Also winning in December: Guns N' Roses, the Beastie Boys and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who were all announced as the members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2012, and Twilight star Kristen Stewart, who was named Forbes magazine's Most Lucrative Star. Adele dominated the year's end album and singles polls; Jason Newsted reunited with Metallica for their 30th anniversary bash in San Francisco, and Martin Scorsese's first 3D movie Hugo was the surprise Best Film winner at the National Board of Review Awards in America.
In other movie news, Transformers: Dark of The Moon was named the year's most mistake-ridden film; Orson Welles' Citizen Kane Oscar sold at auction for $861,000; Drive dominated the Satellite Awards while The Help, The Artist and The Descendants picked up the lion's share of nominations for the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Angelina Jolie's directorial debut, In The Land of Blood and Honey, also picked up Golden Globes nods and she was named the 2012 recipient of the Stanley Kramer Award at the Producer's Guild of America Awards.
In music news, Amy Winehouse's posthumous album debuted at number one in Britain; 30 Seconds To Mars broke a concert record at a show in New York - their 309th in a single album cycle, and Gucci Mane was released from prison.
Wrapping up the month, Oscar winner Colin Firth was immortalised in wax at Madame Tussauds in London; Men's Health magazine bosses crowned Jennifer Aniston the Hottest Woman of All Time; Liz Taylor's diamonds and gems set a new auction record by becoming the most valuable private jewellery collection; Lmfao were forced to abandon a gig in Honduras after a fire broke out at the venue; Welsh opera star Katherine Jenkins announced her split from fiance Gethin Jones, and Coldplay rang in 2012 with a $1.6 million gig in Abu Dhabi.
And the last month of the year saw the notable deaths of actor Bill McKinney, soul stars Dobie Gray and Howard Tate, M*A*S*H regular Harry Morgan, Clark Gable and Loretta Young's love child Judy Lewis, actress Doe Avedon Siegel, former child star Susan Gordon, country singer Billie Jo Spears, Aussie actor Graham Bown, world leaders Vaclav Havel and Kim Jong-Il, songwriter Ralph MacDonald, Kojak star Dan Frazer, directors Don Sharp and Yoshimitsu Morita, writer Christopher Hitchens and Tarzan's chimp sidekick Cheetah, who died of liver failure, aged 80.
- 1/1/2012
- WENN
Breezy performs a pair of F.A.M.E. tunes, also including 'Say It With Me.'
By James Dinh
Chris Brown performs at the AMAs
Photo: Kevork Djansezian/ Getty Images
Chris Brown knows how to put on a dance-tastic performance. And that's exactly what the pop&B entertainer did at the 2011 American Music Awards on Sunday (November 20).
Donning a white T-shirt and jeans, Brown began his performance with his slow jam "All Back" alongside his band. With just a microphone stand in tow, the singer twirled around the stage and displayed some rather raw and emotional vocals. While it may have appeared to be a rather basic set, Breezy's performance turned high-tech when the tune came to a close and the stage turned black.
Breezy continued his performance with another F.A.M.E. tune, "Say It With Me." Keeping in sync with a computer-generated backdrop, the singer mirrored...
By James Dinh
Chris Brown performs at the AMAs
Photo: Kevork Djansezian/ Getty Images
Chris Brown knows how to put on a dance-tastic performance. And that's exactly what the pop&B entertainer did at the 2011 American Music Awards on Sunday (November 20).
Donning a white T-shirt and jeans, Brown began his performance with his slow jam "All Back" alongside his band. With just a microphone stand in tow, the singer twirled around the stage and displayed some rather raw and emotional vocals. While it may have appeared to be a rather basic set, Breezy's performance turned high-tech when the tune came to a close and the stage turned black.
Breezy continued his performance with another F.A.M.E. tune, "Say It With Me." Keeping in sync with a computer-generated backdrop, the singer mirrored...
- 11/20/2011
- MTV Music News
Mark Romanek is no stranger to making you dance in your seat when you’re watching MTV — or any other channel, for that matter. The director behind those infectious iPod commercials, including the colorful, rocking U2 “Vertigo” spot, had millions of Vma viewers (12.4 million, to be exact) grooving along with the now-famous trio of hip-hop-happy hamsters (and a group of equally skilled robots who couldn’t resist a catchy beat) in the latest Kia Soul ad which aired during the awards show last night.
Romanek’s other credits including film (Never Let Me Go, One Hour Photo) and, perhaps most notably,...
Romanek’s other credits including film (Never Let Me Go, One Hour Photo) and, perhaps most notably,...
- 8/30/2011
- by Aly Semigran
- EW - Inside TV
Backstreet Boys and New Kids on the Block close the show, and Usher, Katy Perry, Pink and more hit the stage.
By Mawuse Ziegbe
Justin Bieber poses with his American Music Awards
Photo: Michael Caulfield/AMA2010/Getty Images/Dcp
Although she was nervous about kicking off Sunday night's (November 21) American Music Awards, Rihanna took the "challenge" and ran with it. Sporting crimson spirals and a skimpy two-piece, the Barbadian songbird turned out energetic renditions of Loud tracks "What's My Name?" and "Love the Way You Lie (Part II)" revved up with tropical touches like a drum circle and dancers in fringe-laden outfits. The songstress' hip-twisting, percussion-heavy set scored a standing ovation from the star-packed crowd.
Rihanna's set established the tone for the rest for the evening, which was marked by similarly epic stage productions. After picking up the award for Pop Music - Favorite Band, Duo or Group, the Black Eyed Peas...
By Mawuse Ziegbe
Justin Bieber poses with his American Music Awards
Photo: Michael Caulfield/AMA2010/Getty Images/Dcp
Although she was nervous about kicking off Sunday night's (November 21) American Music Awards, Rihanna took the "challenge" and ran with it. Sporting crimson spirals and a skimpy two-piece, the Barbadian songbird turned out energetic renditions of Loud tracks "What's My Name?" and "Love the Way You Lie (Part II)" revved up with tropical touches like a drum circle and dancers in fringe-laden outfits. The songstress' hip-twisting, percussion-heavy set scored a standing ovation from the star-packed crowd.
Rihanna's set established the tone for the rest for the evening, which was marked by similarly epic stage productions. After picking up the award for Pop Music - Favorite Band, Duo or Group, the Black Eyed Peas...
- 11/22/2010
- MTV Music News
After Rihanna's victory in Favorite Soul/R&B Female Artist was announced, Justin Bieber took a seat behind a grand piano and delivered a new motivational song called "Pray" at the November 21 of American Music Awards. His performance was introduced by fellow young singer Willow Smith.
"I close my eyes and I can see a better day/ I close my eyes and pray," he sent his prayers for the less fortunate in the Michael Jackson-inspired song. Later when accepting an award for Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist, he paid tribute to the late King of Pop, saying "Without Michael Jackson, none of us would be here."
From a total of four nominations, Bieber has won three of them, including T-Mobile Breakthrough Artist and Favorite Pop/Rock Album. The other nomination he got is Artist of the Year which lines up Eminem, Ke$ha, Lady GaGa and Katy Perry in the battle.
"I close my eyes and I can see a better day/ I close my eyes and pray," he sent his prayers for the less fortunate in the Michael Jackson-inspired song. Later when accepting an award for Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist, he paid tribute to the late King of Pop, saying "Without Michael Jackson, none of us would be here."
From a total of four nominations, Bieber has won three of them, including T-Mobile Breakthrough Artist and Favorite Pop/Rock Album. The other nomination he got is Artist of the Year which lines up Eminem, Ke$ha, Lady GaGa and Katy Perry in the battle.
- 11/22/2010
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
'It was a mission, something I had to do,' he tells MTV News.
By Hillary Crosley, with reporting by Sway Calloway
T-Pain
Photo: MTV News
Just before Michael Jackson's mother, Katherine, spoke to Oprah Winfrey on Monday, T-Pain told MTV News' Sway about reworking the musical icon's classic track "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)." The cut is on Quincy Jones' Q: Soul Bossa Nostra LP, which hit stores Tuesday.
"Aw, man, it was a mission, something I had to do, something Jackson asked me to do himself," Pain said at Lil Wayne's welcome-home party in Miami. "So it was basically a mission carried out by Quincy Jones. I think it's gonna be cool, 'cause, you know, before Jackson passed away, he was gonna do a tribute album of himself. It was gonna be everybody remaking his songs, and he was gonna be featured on the songs.
By Hillary Crosley, with reporting by Sway Calloway
T-Pain
Photo: MTV News
Just before Michael Jackson's mother, Katherine, spoke to Oprah Winfrey on Monday, T-Pain told MTV News' Sway about reworking the musical icon's classic track "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)." The cut is on Quincy Jones' Q: Soul Bossa Nostra LP, which hit stores Tuesday.
"Aw, man, it was a mission, something I had to do, something Jackson asked me to do himself," Pain said at Lil Wayne's welcome-home party in Miami. "So it was basically a mission carried out by Quincy Jones. I think it's gonna be cool, 'cause, you know, before Jackson passed away, he was gonna do a tribute album of himself. It was gonna be everybody remaking his songs, and he was gonna be featured on the songs.
- 11/10/2010
- MTV Music News
Quincy Jones is a living legend. His music has influenced generations creating masterpieces with every one from Count Basie to Michael Jackson. Now, a new group of current artists like Mary J. Blige, Jamie Foxx, L.L. Cool J, Jennifer Hudson and John Legend are paying tribute to the maestro on a new album, "Q: Soul Bossa Nostra," available in stores and online today. Essence.com sat down to talk with Mr. Jones about working with the great vocalists of our time, what he thinks about electronic music, and his philosophy for life...
- 11/9/2010
- Essence
'I just wanna keep it Hard Rock Cafe, not soft rock café,' crooner tells MTV News before his energetic, sweat-filled set.
By Matt Elias
Robin Thicke
Photo: Chelsea Lauren/Getty Images
Hollywood — Rock returned to Hollywood with the grand opening Thursday night of the Hard Rock Hollywood Cafe. It marked a fitting return to a city rich in rock history, boasting hometown heroes like the Doors, the Runaways, Mötley Crüe and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Nestled between the iconic Grauman's Chinese Theatre and the Kodak Theatre, the venue itself is fit for rock royalty, with a full stage in the middle of the café and music memorabilia adorning the walls. Some key pieces of memorabilia in the Hollywood collection include a Michael Jackson fedora that he wore in the '90s, a suede jacket worn by John Lennon for the Beatles' Rubber Soul album cover and a sheer...
By Matt Elias
Robin Thicke
Photo: Chelsea Lauren/Getty Images
Hollywood — Rock returned to Hollywood with the grand opening Thursday night of the Hard Rock Hollywood Cafe. It marked a fitting return to a city rich in rock history, boasting hometown heroes like the Doors, the Runaways, Mötley Crüe and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Nestled between the iconic Grauman's Chinese Theatre and the Kodak Theatre, the venue itself is fit for rock royalty, with a full stage in the middle of the café and music memorabilia adorning the walls. Some key pieces of memorabilia in the Hollywood collection include a Michael Jackson fedora that he wore in the '90s, a suede jacket worn by John Lennon for the Beatles' Rubber Soul album cover and a sheer...
- 10/22/2010
- MTV Music News
Photograph by Glenn Kasin
Soul Brother: Livestrong president and CEO Doug Ulman has a strong bond with Armstrong: Both are cancer survivors. | Photograph by Peter Yang
The world's most famous cancer survivor has been his foundation's biggest asset, even as it grew into an innovative force in health care. Now his legal troubles may make him a risk.
Photograph by Peter Yang
On a Sunday night in late July, a trio of bouncers stand outside a chic club near the Champs-Élysées, in Paris, checking guests for a special bracelet with a black plastic charm of a No. 28 cycling jersey. Inside, a red and white logo-festooned racing bike is on display like a sculpture. The absence of a rider is appropriate: This is the post-race celebration for Lance Armstrong's last Tour de France.
He's just finished a humbling 23rd in a race he's won seven times. But the mood at...
Soul Brother: Livestrong president and CEO Doug Ulman has a strong bond with Armstrong: Both are cancer survivors. | Photograph by Peter Yang
The world's most famous cancer survivor has been his foundation's biggest asset, even as it grew into an innovative force in health care. Now his legal troubles may make him a risk.
Photograph by Peter Yang
On a Sunday night in late July, a trio of bouncers stand outside a chic club near the Champs-Élysées, in Paris, checking guests for a special bracelet with a black plastic charm of a No. 28 cycling jersey. Inside, a red and white logo-festooned racing bike is on display like a sculpture. The absence of a rider is appropriate: This is the post-race celebration for Lance Armstrong's last Tour de France.
He's just finished a humbling 23rd in a race he's won seven times. But the mood at...
- 10/18/2010
- by Chuck Salter
- Fast Company
Sunday night's (June 27) 2010 Bet Awards were packed with emotional moments, stellar performances and a pair of tributes (to both the late Michael Jackson and the elusive Prince) that will not soon be forgotten. But perhaps the most refreshing, surprising moment of the show was the triumphant return of El DeBarge. The veteran singer stormed the stage to perform a medley of past hits, including "All This Love," "Time Will Reveal" and the classic "Rhythm of the Night." It all set the stage for his forthcoming comeback album, the aptly-titled Second Chance, which is scheduled to hit store shelves in the fall.
Eldra DeBarge grew up in Detroit and was one of 10 DeBarge siblings. He first found success with his siblings in a group called DeBarge, and El found himself leading and producing some huge hits for Motown in the beginning of the 1980s with tracks like "Stop! Please Don't Tease Me" and "I Like It.
Eldra DeBarge grew up in Detroit and was one of 10 DeBarge siblings. He first found success with his siblings in a group called DeBarge, and El found himself leading and producing some huge hits for Motown in the beginning of the 1980s with tracks like "Stop! Please Don't Tease Me" and "I Like It.
- 6/28/2010
- by Kyle Anderson
- MTV Newsroom
A Michael Jackson tribute is also confirmed for the awards show, airing live June 27.
By Mawuse Ziegbe
Eminem
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
Eminem, Usher, Alicia Keys and T-Pain have been added to the performance lineup of the Bet Awards '10, going down on June 27 in Los Angeles. The hitmakers will join a star-studded bill that includes previously announced performers Kanye West, Drake, T.I., Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross and Ludacris.
A Bet rep also confirmed that a Michael Jackson tribute is slated for this year's show, hosted by rapper/actor Queen Latifah. The 2009 event became an impromptu Mj homage after the icon died just days before the awards show aired. Host Jamie Foxx memorably Moonwalked and spoofed Jackson's "Beat It," and stars like Ne-Yo, Ciara and Keri Hilson paid homage to the icon during their performances.
Rolling Stone reported on Thursday (June 17) that Bet insiders confirmed viewers can expect a...
By Mawuse Ziegbe
Eminem
Photo: Kevin Mazur/ WireImage
Eminem, Usher, Alicia Keys and T-Pain have been added to the performance lineup of the Bet Awards '10, going down on June 27 in Los Angeles. The hitmakers will join a star-studded bill that includes previously announced performers Kanye West, Drake, T.I., Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross and Ludacris.
A Bet rep also confirmed that a Michael Jackson tribute is slated for this year's show, hosted by rapper/actor Queen Latifah. The 2009 event became an impromptu Mj homage after the icon died just days before the awards show aired. Host Jamie Foxx memorably Moonwalked and spoofed Jackson's "Beat It," and stars like Ne-Yo, Ciara and Keri Hilson paid homage to the icon during their performances.
Rolling Stone reported on Thursday (June 17) that Bet insiders confirmed viewers can expect a...
- 6/17/2010
- MTV Music News
Spending the evening on the red carpet, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony were all decked out in their finest garb in New York City on Monday (June 14).
The "El Cantante" couple had their arms around one another as they posed for pictures ahead of the Apollo Theater's Spring 2010 Benefit Concert & Awards Ceremony.
During the course of the evening, Lopez and Anthony were honored with the Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis Arts & Humanitarian Award.
Other toasts of the swanky fete included the induction of King of Pop Michael Jackson and Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame.
The "El Cantante" couple had their arms around one another as they posed for pictures ahead of the Apollo Theater's Spring 2010 Benefit Concert & Awards Ceremony.
During the course of the evening, Lopez and Anthony were honored with the Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis Arts & Humanitarian Award.
Other toasts of the swanky fete included the induction of King of Pop Michael Jackson and Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame.
- 6/15/2010
- GossipCenter
Spending the evening on the red carpet, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony were all decked out in their finest garb in New York City on Monday (June 14).
The "El Cantante" couple had their arms around one another as they posed for pictures ahead of the Apollo Theater's Spring 2010 Benefit Concert & Awards Ceremony.
During the course of the evening, Lopez and Anthony were honored with the Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis Arts & Humanitarian Award.
Other toasts of the swanky fete included the induction of King of Pop Michael Jackson and Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame.
The "El Cantante" couple had their arms around one another as they posed for pictures ahead of the Apollo Theater's Spring 2010 Benefit Concert & Awards Ceremony.
During the course of the evening, Lopez and Anthony were honored with the Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis Arts & Humanitarian Award.
Other toasts of the swanky fete included the induction of King of Pop Michael Jackson and Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame.
- 6/15/2010
- GossipCenter
Sorry Suzy Creamcheese but I am really not a huge fan of Frank Zappa – although I do admit that I admire and respect his talent. However, I do make one specific exception for Zappa’s 1966 debut (with the Mothers of Invention) Freak Out! which is one of my favorite albums of that seminal year in music history that also witnessed the release of… The Beach Boys – Pet Sounds The Beatles – Revolver James Brown – (too many albums to list) Tim Buckley – Tim Buckley Miles Davis – Miles Smiles Donovan – Sunshine Superman Bob Dylan – Blonde on Blonde Tim Hardin – 1 The Incredible String Band – The Incredible String Band The Kinks – Face to Face Love – Love The Monkees – The Monkees The Monks – Black Monk Time Otis Redding – The Soul Album The Rolling Stones – Aftermath Nancy Sinatra – Boots The Seeds – The Seeds Small Faces – Small Faces The Sonics – Boom The 13th Floor Elevators – The Psychedelic Sounds...
- 6/1/2010
- by Don Simpson
- SmellsLikeScreenSpirit
London, April 2 – Michael Jackson and Aretha Franklin are going to be a part of the hall of fame at New York’s Apollo Theatre.
Queen of Soul Franklin, 68, is expected to attend the event at the Harlem theatre on 14th June, reports The BBC.
Past inductees of the hall of fame include Smokey Robinson, Quincy Jones and James Brown.
The Apollo is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. (Ani)...
Queen of Soul Franklin, 68, is expected to attend the event at the Harlem theatre on 14th June, reports The BBC.
Past inductees of the hall of fame include Smokey Robinson, Quincy Jones and James Brown.
The Apollo is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. (Ani)...
- 4/2/2010
- by News
- RealBollywood.com
Michael Jackson and Aretha Franklin are to be inducted into the Apollo Theater's Hall of Fame in New York. The late King of Pop and the Queen of Soul will be named Apollo Legends at a gala on June 14.
Jackson launched his career with the Jackson Five at the Apollo's Amateur Night in the late 1960s. Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony will also be honored with Ruby Dee & Ossie Davis Arts and Humanitarian Award at the event for their humanitarian work.
For the June 14 gala, Jamie Foxx is tapped to serve as the host. The event is scheduled to begin at 6.30 P.M. with a star-studded red carpet and then followed by the Benefit concert and awards ceremony at 7.00 P.M.
Jackson launched his career with the Jackson Five at the Apollo's Amateur Night in the late 1960s. Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony will also be honored with Ruby Dee & Ossie Davis Arts and Humanitarian Award at the event for their humanitarian work.
For the June 14 gala, Jamie Foxx is tapped to serve as the host. The event is scheduled to begin at 6.30 P.M. with a star-studded red carpet and then followed by the Benefit concert and awards ceremony at 7.00 P.M.
- 4/1/2010
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
BFFs Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato and Miley Cyrus each earn equally one spot at the Young Artist Awards this year under the television category. The first two are included for their roles in TV movie "Princess Protection Program" while Miley is in for her leading role on "Hannah Montana".
In terms of the number, it is Miranda Cosgrove and her show "iCarly" that earn the most. Beside the actress herself who is nominated for Best Performance in a TV Series by a Leading Actress, the whole cast are nominated for Outstanding Young Performers in a TV Series. Additionally, Nathan Kress and Joey Luthman land a nod each in supporting actor and recurring categories respectively.
However, Nate Hartley adds one for "Hannah Montana" in the guest starring category. As for Gomez's "Wizards of Waverly Place", it is Jake T. Austin who gets a nod, while as for Lovato's "Sonny with a Chance...
In terms of the number, it is Miranda Cosgrove and her show "iCarly" that earn the most. Beside the actress herself who is nominated for Best Performance in a TV Series by a Leading Actress, the whole cast are nominated for Outstanding Young Performers in a TV Series. Additionally, Nathan Kress and Joey Luthman land a nod each in supporting actor and recurring categories respectively.
However, Nate Hartley adds one for "Hannah Montana" in the guest starring category. As for Gomez's "Wizards of Waverly Place", it is Jake T. Austin who gets a nod, while as for Lovato's "Sonny with a Chance...
- 2/22/2010
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato are placed in competition against each other at the upcoming 31st Annual Young Artist Awards. As the Young Artist Foundation unveiled this year's nominees, it is revealed that the two Disney stars and best friends are vying for Leading or Supporting Young Actress title in a category for TV movie, mini-series or special.
Both Selena and Demi received the nomination for their performance as Carter Mason and Rosalinda respectively in "Princess Protection Program". Beside each other, they are also up against two other hopefuls, Tori Barban of "The Christmas Hope" and Patricia Raven of "Dear Harvard".
The two teen stars are not the only Disney's leading lady to get nominated for 2010 Young Artist Awards. Miley Cyrus has earned a nod for Leading Young Actress in TV series for her role on "Hannah Montana". She is listed among four other contenders that include the star of Nickelodeon's "iCarly", Miranda Cosgrove.
Both Selena and Demi received the nomination for their performance as Carter Mason and Rosalinda respectively in "Princess Protection Program". Beside each other, they are also up against two other hopefuls, Tori Barban of "The Christmas Hope" and Patricia Raven of "Dear Harvard".
The two teen stars are not the only Disney's leading lady to get nominated for 2010 Young Artist Awards. Miley Cyrus has earned a nod for Leading Young Actress in TV series for her role on "Hannah Montana". She is listed among four other contenders that include the star of Nickelodeon's "iCarly", Miranda Cosgrove.
- 2/22/2010
- by celebrity-mania.com
- Celebrity Mania
Actress with singing aspirations could end up in the charts if the record label decide to put out her unreleased music
In this culture of cash-in, music execs have reportedly already started plumbing the archives for unreleased music by actress Brittany Murphy, who died this week. After scoring a 2006 hit with DJ Paul Oakenfold, Murphy had allegedly worked on an album with producers Max Martin and Timbaland.
"Obviously this isn't a Michael Jackson thing, but people are definitely interested in Brittany and her story," a source from the unspecified label reportedly told E! Online. "Depending on what she may have recorded and what kind of quality it is, she could end up having a hit song or two."
In the 1990s, Murphy and Six Feet Under actor Eric Balfour formed a rock group called Blessed Soul. Later, Murphy recorded covers of Queen's Somebody to Love and Earth, Wind & Fire's...
In this culture of cash-in, music execs have reportedly already started plumbing the archives for unreleased music by actress Brittany Murphy, who died this week. After scoring a 2006 hit with DJ Paul Oakenfold, Murphy had allegedly worked on an album with producers Max Martin and Timbaland.
"Obviously this isn't a Michael Jackson thing, but people are definitely interested in Brittany and her story," a source from the unspecified label reportedly told E! Online. "Depending on what she may have recorded and what kind of quality it is, she could end up having a hit song or two."
In the 1990s, Murphy and Six Feet Under actor Eric Balfour formed a rock group called Blessed Soul. Later, Murphy recorded covers of Queen's Somebody to Love and Earth, Wind & Fire's...
- 12/24/2009
- by Sean Michaels
- The Guardian - Film News
After several artists including Alicia Keys, Eminem and Timbaland made live performances, Toni Braxton appeared alongside Keri Hilson to announce that Jay-z has won Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Male Artist. When collecting the award, the rapper used that moment to thank Alicia Keys for her support in "Empire State of Mind".
Minutes later, the top honor of the evening was announced by Ryan Seacrest. It's Taylor Swift who was crowned Artist of the Year, pushing aside Kings of Leon, Lady GaGa, Eminem and Michael Jackson.
The rest of the winners were unveiled off air. "Twilight" soundtrack was revealed as Favorite Soundtrack during the closing credits. Michael Jackson's compilation "Number Ones", meanwhile, was named Favorite Pop/Rock and Soul/R 'n' B Album. Taylor Swift's "Fearless" won Favorite Country Album and Jay-z's "The Blueprint 3" was named Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Album.
Taylor added another trophy to her collection with Favorite Adult Contemporary Artist.
Minutes later, the top honor of the evening was announced by Ryan Seacrest. It's Taylor Swift who was crowned Artist of the Year, pushing aside Kings of Leon, Lady GaGa, Eminem and Michael Jackson.
The rest of the winners were unveiled off air. "Twilight" soundtrack was revealed as Favorite Soundtrack during the closing credits. Michael Jackson's compilation "Number Ones", meanwhile, was named Favorite Pop/Rock and Soul/R 'n' B Album. Taylor Swift's "Fearless" won Favorite Country Album and Jay-z's "The Blueprint 3" was named Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Album.
Taylor added another trophy to her collection with Favorite Adult Contemporary Artist.
- 11/23/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Taylor Swift has indeed dominated this year's music awards. After grabbing five kudos from the 43rd Annual Country Music Association Awards on November 11, the country singer went on to win the most nods at 2009 American Music Awards. On the Sunday, November 22, ceremony, she took home five AMAs.
Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist, Favorite Country Female Artist and Favorite Adult Contemporary Artist were among the 19-year-old's AMAs collection this year. Nominated for six categories, she missed only on the Favorite Pop/Rock Album kudo. She lost to other multiple winner on the night Michael Jackson. However, she beat the King of Pop for the ultimate title of Artist of the Year.
Michael, in the meantime, grabbed onto four awards at the show held at the Nokia Theatre L. A. Live in Los Angeles. The singer who passed away in June nabbed Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist and Favorite Soul/Rhythm & Blues Male Artist.
Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist, Favorite Country Female Artist and Favorite Adult Contemporary Artist were among the 19-year-old's AMAs collection this year. Nominated for six categories, she missed only on the Favorite Pop/Rock Album kudo. She lost to other multiple winner on the night Michael Jackson. However, she beat the King of Pop for the ultimate title of Artist of the Year.
Michael, in the meantime, grabbed onto four awards at the show held at the Nokia Theatre L. A. Live in Los Angeles. The singer who passed away in June nabbed Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist and Favorite Soul/Rhythm & Blues Male Artist.
- 11/23/2009
- by celebrity-mania.com
- Celebrity Mania
Michael Jackson passed away in June, but his legacy is still very much alive in the hearts of his fans.
The King of Pop broke the record for artist with the most American Music Awards ever at the ceremony Sunday night, where he won awards for both Favorite Pop/Rock artist and Favorite Male Soul/R&B artist. He also won two awards for his 2003 album "Number Ones." The four awards brought Jackson's lifetime total...
The King of Pop broke the record for artist with the most American Music Awards ever at the ceremony Sunday night, where he won awards for both Favorite Pop/Rock artist and Favorite Male Soul/R&B artist. He also won two awards for his 2003 album "Number Ones." The four awards brought Jackson's lifetime total...
- 11/23/2009
- Extra
2009 American Music Awards has just been kicked off and several early winners have been unveiled at the November 22 ceremony. After Janet Jackson performed a medley of her hit singles, Paula Abdul took the stage to announce Black Eyed Peas as Favorite Pop/Rock Band, Duo or Group.
Presented by Jason Aldean and Kristen Bell, the next award, this time for Favorite Country Band, Duo or Group, was given to Rascal Flatts. They beat Sugarland and Zac Brown Band, winning the category for four years in a row.
The likes of Shakira, Daughtry, Keith Urban and Kelly Clarkson then made their live performances. Shakira delivered "Give It Up to Me", Daughtry rocked "Live After You", Keith sang "Kiss a Girl" and Kelly performed "Already Gone".
Snoop Dogg and Joe Perry teamed up to present Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist which was handed to Taylor Swift. The young singer was not present...
Presented by Jason Aldean and Kristen Bell, the next award, this time for Favorite Country Band, Duo or Group, was given to Rascal Flatts. They beat Sugarland and Zac Brown Band, winning the category for four years in a row.
The likes of Shakira, Daughtry, Keith Urban and Kelly Clarkson then made their live performances. Shakira delivered "Give It Up to Me", Daughtry rocked "Live After You", Keith sang "Kiss a Girl" and Kelly performed "Already Gone".
Snoop Dogg and Joe Perry teamed up to present Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist which was handed to Taylor Swift. The young singer was not present...
- 11/23/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Taylor Swift continues to dominate every award show as she walked away with the biggest honor of the night--Artist of the Year. She also walked away with Favorite Female Artist (Country), Favorite Country Album, and Favorite Contemporary Artist. Taylor shared her big night with the late Michael Jackson, who won Favorite Male Artist (Pop/Rock), favorite Male Artist Soul/R&B, favorite album, Favorite Male Artist (Soul/R&B). Check out all the winners below and let us know if you agree with the winners list. Winners indicated with ** Artist Of The Year Kings of Leon **Taylor Swift** Lady...
- 11/22/2009
- Hollyscoop.com
She opened the MTV Video Music Awards in September, and Janet Jackson will also open the American Music Awards this month.
Dick Clark Productions has announced the superstar will perform a "special medley" at the Nov. 22 awards show.
See Janet Jackson's look throughout the years
"We're thrilled about having Janet Jackson open this year's show," said American Music Awards producer Larry Klein. "She is an incredibly dynamic performer and I think the audience will...
Dick Clark Productions has announced the superstar will perform a "special medley" at the Nov. 22 awards show.
See Janet Jackson's look throughout the years
"We're thrilled about having Janet Jackson open this year's show," said American Music Awards producer Larry Klein. "She is an incredibly dynamic performer and I think the audience will...
- 11/12/2009
- Extra
November 22 awards show lineup already includes Rihanna, Jay-z, Eminem and more.
Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong and Mike Dirnt
Photo: Bryan Bedder/ Getty Images
The 37th annual American Music Awards have lined up a few more acts to take the stage at the show on November 22. Green Day, Shakira, and Mary J. Blige have joined the performers list, which includes Rihanna, Jay-z and Adam Lambert, to name a few, for the awards show that will air live on ABC.
"We're very excited about having Green Day, Rihanna, Shakira, Mary J. Blige and Keith Urban all performing on one stage," AMAs producer Larry Klein said in a statement. "Each year, we try to have a variety of artists and sounds, and I think these performers really showcase the depth of what this show brings to its fans."
2009 American Music Award Performers
The night's other big performers include Lady Gaga, Eminem,...
Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong and Mike Dirnt
Photo: Bryan Bedder/ Getty Images
The 37th annual American Music Awards have lined up a few more acts to take the stage at the show on November 22. Green Day, Shakira, and Mary J. Blige have joined the performers list, which includes Rihanna, Jay-z and Adam Lambert, to name a few, for the awards show that will air live on ABC.
"We're very excited about having Green Day, Rihanna, Shakira, Mary J. Blige and Keith Urban all performing on one stage," AMAs producer Larry Klein said in a statement. "Each year, we try to have a variety of artists and sounds, and I think these performers really showcase the depth of what this show brings to its fans."
2009 American Music Award Performers
The night's other big performers include Lady Gaga, Eminem,...
- 11/6/2009
- MTV Music News
"The Insider" sits down with best-selling author and mind-body healing authority Deepak Chopra, who remembers the late Michael Jackson. "He found happiness when he gave people joy through his music and dancing. But Michael also was the victim of childhood trauma, emotional trauma," Deepak says. "And there was a part of him that said, 'I’m not good enough.' There’s a part of him that said, 'I'm not good-looking enough, I'm not talented enough. …'" Keep watching the video for more candid reflections from Deepak, as well as for his thoughts on the deaths of three people who participated in a reported sweat-lodge ceremony in Arizona this month. Deepak’s new book -- Reinventing the Body, Resurrecting the Soul -- is available now.
[Read full story on The Insider]...
[Read full story on The Insider]...
- 10/22/2009
- by TheInsider
- TheInsider.com
During a press event taking place on October 13 at the Beverly Hills Hotel, this year's nominations for American Music Awards have been announced by Adam Lambert, Paula Abdul and Snoop Dogg. The repicients are picked up based on "the data supplied by the Nielsen Company's Broadcast Data Systems, which monitors radio airplay performance, and SoundScan, which tracks retail music sales."
Taylor Swift, whose album "Fearless" has spent more than 30 weeks on Billboard Hot 200, receives six nods followed by Michael Jackson with five and Eminem with four each. The country music beauty is listed as one of the contenders for Favorite Female Artist and Favorite Album in Pop/Rock and Country Music categories. Also, she is vying for Favorite Artist in Adult Contemporary Music.
Taylor's sixth nod is as a contender for the top honor, Artist of the Year. She will go head-to-head with Michael and Eminem as well as Kings of Leon and Lady GaGa.
Taylor Swift, whose album "Fearless" has spent more than 30 weeks on Billboard Hot 200, receives six nods followed by Michael Jackson with five and Eminem with four each. The country music beauty is listed as one of the contenders for Favorite Female Artist and Favorite Album in Pop/Rock and Country Music categories. Also, she is vying for Favorite Artist in Adult Contemporary Music.
Taylor's sixth nod is as a contender for the top honor, Artist of the Year. She will go head-to-head with Michael and Eminem as well as Kings of Leon and Lady GaGa.
- 10/14/2009
- by AceShowbiz.com
- Aceshowbiz
Paula Abdul announced the nominees for this year's "American Music Awards," where Michael Jackson picked up five noms for his 2003 greatest hits collection. Jackson is eligible because the AMAs go by sales and air play, not based on the year the material may have been released. The late singer is up for Artist of the Year, Pop Rock Male, Pop Rock Album, R&B/Soul Male and R&B/Soul Album. See the complete list at the Ama site, then back here for video from the event later today, along with more music news, presenters and performers. The "American Music Awards" air Sunday, November 22 on ABC.
[Read full story on The Insider]...
[Read full story on The Insider]...
- 10/13/2009
- by TheInsider
- TheInsider.com
Michael Jackson may be gone, but he sure isn't forgotten. Especially by the AMAs. The nominees for this year's American Music Awards were released on Tuesday morning, revealing that the deceased King of Pop has racked up an impressive five nominations, including Artist of the Year. (Jackson will face off against Kings of Leon, Taylor Swift, Lady GaGa and Eminem in that category.) Jackson's greatest-hits collection Number Ones is also up for Favorite Album in the Pop/Rock and Soul/R&B categories, while Jackson himself is up against performers such as Eminem, T.I., Jamie Foxx and Maxwell for Favorite Artist wins in the Pop/Rock...
- 10/13/2009
- by Celebuzz
- Celebuzz.com
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