Russell's bizarre acceptance speech

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Good old Russell Crowe!

He's been a bit off-radar recently - but when he does get a few moments in the limelight, he always uses them to full effect.

The Beautiful Mind star bowled up to Sunday night's Empire Film Awards just minutes before he was due to receive his Actor Of Our Lifetime gong. He then bounded on to the stage with a piece of paper covered in notes, and gave a bizarre speech, which included lyrics by Billy Bragg, John Lennon and the Bee Gees, plus poetry by Patrick Kavanagh and Rudyard Kipling.

That speech in full? "I am celebrating my love for you with a pint of beer and a new tattoo. Imagine there's no heaven. I don't know if you're loving somebody.

"To be a poet and not know the trade, to be a lover and repel all women. Twin ironies by which great saints are made, the agonising pincer jaws of heaven.

"If you can walk with crowds and keep your virtue, walk with kings but not lose the common touch, if neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you, if all men count with you, but none too much.

"Yours is the earth and everything that's in it, and what's more, you'll be a man. It's only words and words are all I have to take your breath away."

Naturally, Russell was the butt of a few jokes throughout the rest of the ceremony. But does he care? Does he hell! At least the audience didn't have to sit through a whole bunch of "thank yous" to people they'd never heard of...

Picture: PA

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Becks is our dream plane buddie

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

It's pointless poll time again, folks!

David Beckham has topped a Heathrow Airport survey to uncover the celebrity we'd most like to sit next to on a plane.

The international superstar, England footballer and part-time underwear model beat off stiff competition from an eclectic mix of names including US president Barack Obama, gnome-faced gazillionaire Richard Branson, silver fox George Clooney and national treasure Stephen Fry.

Meanwhile, Kylie Minogue was the highest placed singer on the list, while Jordan was the top media star. And the comedian we'd most like to join us on a flight? It's Billy Connolly...

 

Now, I don't mean to put a dampener on Heathrow's thorough research - but I'd much prefer to have an empty seat next to me on a flight, rather then a celebrity. Imagine jostling for arm-rest space with Jordan - or having to disturb Barack Obama every time you wanted to go to the loo! Nightmare!

So who - if anyone - would you most like to sit next to on a long-haul flight? Tell us here.

Pictures: Rex Features, Wenn 

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Has Jen given her hair guru the chop?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Remember how Jennifer Aniston recently shelled out £40,000 so her personal hairdresser Chris McMillan could tend to her locks during her European publicity tour?

Well, according to the Daily Mail, the pair's relationship has since cooled - and Chris isn't working with Jen on the set of her new movie, The Baster.

"Chris is focusing on building his celebrity clientele and Jennifer wants to experiment with her look," an insider blabbed to the newspaper.

Hang on! Jennifer wants to experiment with her look? Surely not! Could Ms Aniston be about to opt for a radical new colour, a Heather Mills-style pixie cut or even a bob (or 'Job' as it would undoubtedly become known)?

Meanwhile, I must admit I was a little intrigued by the title of Jen's current film project. Why The Baster, do you suppose? Well, apparently it's the tale of a single woman who's desperate for a baby but her biological clock is ticking so she gets hold of a turkey baster and... I'll stop there, shall I?

So should Jen change her hairstyle or stay just the way she is? Tell us what you think.

Picture: Big Pictures

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Jordan banned from Jade's funeral

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Talk about a media circus!

Despite "repeatedly asking" to attend, Jordan has reportedly been told she will be turned away from Jade Goody's funeral if she shows up.

The reason? As you'll doubtless recall, Jordan publicly blasted Jade for making money from her cancer ordeal. "I can't believe she is being paid for interviews on subjects people are really traumatised by," the outspoken glamour girl told OK! magazine last September.

Apparently, Jade eventually forgave Jordan for her outburst - presumably because she had far more important things to worry about - but her family and friends are still furious.

"If she turns up she will not be allowed in," an insider told The Sun. "A lot of people were offended by Jordan's remarks, which showed unbelievable hypocrisy."

Quite right, too! We all know Jordan has been known to speak without thinking - and she undoubtedly feels terrible for making such ill-judged comments. But hey, she'll just have to live with it.

Meanwhile, new rumours - which originate in today's Daily Star - suggest Michael Jackson may be attending Saturday's funeral service.

Oh, for heaven's sake! No wonder Jeff Brazier has taken Jade's sons Bobby and Freddie to Australia to escape all this madness for a while...

Pictures: Wenn

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Who's been doing it for the kids?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

You'll be delighted to hear there was plenty of good ol' American back-slapping and gushing at Saturday night's Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards in Los Angeles.

Among the celebrities of note on the red carpet, Cameron Diaz dressed down - but still looked gorgeous - in ripped jeans and a pretty top. The actress was on hand to present Leonardo Di Caprio - "the coolest guy on this hot planet", according to Cam - with the Big Green Help Award for his contribution to environmental issues.

Meanwhile, Transformers star Megan Fox looked as stunning as ever...

 

But isn't that pose a little provocative for a kiddies' show, Meg? (Not that anyone was complaining on the night, I hasten to add.)

Talking of which, any idea what High School Musical's Vanessa Hudgens has got her eye on here?

 

Vanessa's boyfriend Zac Efron doesn't look too happy, does he? Maybe he was just jet-lagged following his flight back from the UK.

Still, the pair cheered up later when they were called up to accept the Best Movie gong for High School Musical 3: Senior Year. The welcome accolade went some way towards redressing the balance following the film's cruel omission from this year's Academy Awards nominees.

And finally, Miley Cyrus struck her usual peace-sign pose for photographers...

 

The Hannah Montana star beat off stiff competition from Beyoncé, Alicia Keys and Rihanna to take home the Favourite Female Singer award.

"I'm so excited," Miley told the audience. "I know this isn't like the Oscars, but it's still amazing because unlike any other awards show, it's all because of you guys."

See what I mean about the gushing?

Pictures: Wenn

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Posh in flip-flops shocker!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Hold the front pages! Victoria Beckham has stunned footie fans and fashionistas alike - by shunning her usual four-inch heels in favour of flip-flops for England's friendly game against Slovakia at Wembley on Saturday night.

"You think you've seen everything - then this happens," England supporter Arthur Soundbite, 94, told the press. "I can't wait to get home and tell the grandkids. This alone was well worth the £50 I paid for my match ticket."

As you can see from the picture above, Mrs B also turned a few heads by apparently talking into an invisible mobile phone on her way out of the stadium.

During the game, however, fans feared Victoria's insistence on wearing her regulation massive celebrity shades was hindering her enjoyment of the match...

 

I wonder if she had any idea at all where the ball was when this snap was taken...

Pictures: Wenn, PA

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Merry Christmas from Britney

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Oooh - Christmas seems to start earlier every year, doesn't it?

Want proof? Britney Spears ended an energetic performance of 'Do Something' at her Tuesday night show in Washington DC by - somewhat bizarrely - bellowing a heartfelt "Merry Christmas!" to the audience.

And if you don't believe me, just watch to the end of this video clip:

And finally, before I sign off for the weekend, I'd just like to wish you all a very happy and healthy 2010.

Picture: Rex Features

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Zac's back!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

There was much squeaking and squealing in London's Leicester Square last night. The reason? Zac Efron was back in town - complete with his formidable sideburns - for the premiere of his new movie, 17 Again.

Needless to say, the swooning crowds didn't really give a monkey's about any other celebrities on the red carpet - but a few familiar faces turned up anyway.

And it seems a couple of them were having terrible trouble getting their clothes to behave themselves. High School Musical's Jemma McKenzie-Brown had to yank up her bodice to avoid any embarrassing slips...

 

...while X Factor star Diana Vickers had a similar problem with her frock - but approached it from another angle...

 

Meanwhile, glamour model and part-time reality TV star Danielle Lloyd sported an enchanting up-do that showed off the tattoo on the back of her neck...

 

Apparently, it says "Only God can judge me" in Hebrew. But at first glance, I thought it said, "Available for panto". Silly me!

Other stars in attendance included super-smiley X Factor popsters Same Difference, socialite Tamara Ecclestone and former Emmerdale star Roxanne Pallett, who hotfooted it to a nearby steakhouse for dinner straight after the film.

But, I hear you cry, where were the UK's premiere film critics Sam and Amanda Marchant? Don't worry, folks: they were strutting their stuff in the Fake Bake Fashion Show in Glasgow, along with Bianca Gascoigne.

Let's hope Zac wasn't too disappointed not to see them...

Pictures: Wenn

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Jo's so transparent!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Now, nobody can deny that Jo Wood looks amazing - particularly when you consider she's 53 (yes, 53)!

But I'm really not convinced that this see-through pink top and black bra combo was the most flattering outfit to wear for the opening of the Vitality Show in London yesterday.

Still, I suppose it does serve to remind Jo's estranged husband, Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood, exactly what he's missing...

So what do you think of Jo's outfit? Tell us here.

Picture: Wenn

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Diana's done partying

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

She's been off-radar from the gossip columns for a little while - but we haven't forgotten her (yet).

Here's Diana Vickers leaving the X Factor end-of-tour party in Wembley last night. It's good to see she's still maintaining her oh-so-kooky dress sense, isn't it?

Note the battered old boots with laces hanging loose...

 

...and her plunging backline with bra on show to all and sundry...

 

Lovely!

So what do you think of Diana's style? Tell us here.

Pictures: Big Pictures

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Jennifer's the sexiest!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Jennifer Aniston is the sexiest woman in Hollywood!

Well, that's according to the latest issue of Details magazine, which rates good old Jen just ahead of Transformers star Megan Fox, supermodel Gisele Bundchen and Slumdog Millionaire's Freida Pinto...

 

Yep, as you can't fail to have noticed, there was no place on the list for Angelina Jolie.

Mind you, it's only six days since Ange pipped Jen to the top spot in Lovefilm.com's "yummiest mummy in film" poll.

(Just in case you like to take note of this kind of thing, Ms Jolie picked up the honours for her performance in Changeling, while Jen came second for her "maternal role" in Marley & Me.)

That's the great thing about the poll-crazy world of celebrity, you see. If you don't like the results of the latest survey, you don't have to wait very long for the next one to come along.

So is Jen really Hollywood's sexiest woman? Is someone else sorely missing from the list? Tell us what you think.

Pictures: PA

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Prince Philip v Simon Cowell

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

News just in! It turns out Prince Philip isn't a big fan of Simon Cowell. (Well, I'd always had him down as more of a Louis Walsh man, anyway.)

Apparently, when the two came face to face in the line-up following 2007's Royal Variety Performance, the Duke of Edinburgh accused Simon of "sponging" off his acts, such as Britain's Got Talent winner Paul Potts.

Now, far be it from me to be anti-royalist, but don't you think it's a little rich for a member of the Royal Family to call somebody else a sponger?

Still, at least Philip recognised him. According to Simon, the Queen clearly didn't have a clue who he was.

Mind you, it'll take more than a right royal snub to diminish Mr Cowell's gargantuan ego: remember, this is the man who said he was "too busy" to have dinner with Barack Obama last week. Yes, really.

Here's Simon talking about Barack and the Royals on Wednesday's The Tonight Show with Jay Leno:

Picture: PA

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Paris gets a bob (and Doug)

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Exciting news just in from Los Angeles... Paris Hilton has taken her new man Doug Reinhardt to meet her parents. (OK, it's not that exciting. It's not even news. But, hey, this is a celebrity blog - what do you expect?)

Anyway, Mr and Mrs H joined Paris and Doug for dinner at The Ivy last night - how very civilised!

But that's not all! As you can see from our pics, Paris is also sporting a new hairdo: a severe bob with blunt-edged fringe...

 

I quite like it. How about you?

Pictures: Wenn

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Scarlett steals the show

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Oooh - what's Scarlett Johansson looking so sniffy about?

Actually, I'm sure this is just an unfortunate photograph - well, about as "unfortunate" as pictures of Scarlett ever get - but there's a tiny chance she'd just caught a glimpse of Rachel Stevens in this season's must-have harem pants...

 

Not very flattering, are they?

Anyway, the unlikely combo of Scarlett and Rachel joined a host of celebrities at last night's Moet & Chandon Tribute to Cinema party at London's Big Sky Studios.

Also in attendance? The gorgeous-as-ever Thandie Newton sported a cute black and beige shift dress...

 

...while supermodel Eva Herzigova wore a red satin puffball frock and black opaque tights...

 

Other guests included a motley crew of national treasures, former soap stars and fashion royalty: Cilla Black, Will Young, Joseph Fiennes, Michelle Collins, Henry Holland and Jasmine Guinness all put in an appearance.

Ah, there's nothing like the promise of free champagne to coax celebrities out on a Tuesday night, is there?

Pictures: Wenn

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Jonathan's up for a BAFTA!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Poor Andrew Sachs. All he wants is a quiet life (aside from the occasional appearance in Dictionary Corner on Countdown, that is). But every time Jonathan Ross or Russell Brand do something of note, Sachsy is roused from his domestic idyll by story-hungry journos desperate for a quote.

The latest? Despite his post-Sachsgate three-month suspension, Jonathan has received a BAFTA nomination for his TV chat show.

Obviously, those upstanding folk at the Daily Mail were straight on the phone to the Sachs household. However, it seems Andrew's wife Melody answered the call - and duly gave the newspaper what it wanted by declaring herself to be "flabbergasted" at the news.

"Nobody is saying he hasn't got talent, but what he did was so disgusting," she continued. "It is wrong and bad timing to give or even put up this guy for recognition when he has done such a terrible thing."

Meanwhile, The Sun managed to get hold of Sachsy himself, who sounded far more willing to let bygones be bygones. That quote in full? "Blimey, that is a bit of a surprise - but good luck to him.

"It's all in the past and I don't feel any animosity towards him. I've been watching some of his shows since then and some of it is very good. I don't have anything against his talent." Ah, what a nice man!

So should Jonathan have been nominated? Should Andrew and Melody change their phone number? Tell us what you think.

Picture: PA

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Jordan gets back to business

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Sorry to use this blog for personal issues - but I was wondering if anyone out there could help me?

You see, I'm looking for the ideal outfit to wear when I take my two miniature Shetland ponies for a walk round Penge each morning. I need something stylish but practical - something that won't grab too much attention...

If only one of our favourite celebrities would come up with the solution...

Picture: Wenn

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The premiere that rocked

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Last night saw the premiere of new Richard Curtis movie, The Boat That Rocked, in London's Leicester Square.

The occasion marked a rare public appearance by national treasure Sir Paul McCartney and his latest squeeze/rumoured fiancée Nancy Shevell. Now, is it just me or does Sir Paul look a tad uncomfortable here?

Mind you, Chris O'Dowd - who stars as a lovelorn DJ in the new movie - did his best to make Macca feel at home by disguising himself as Ringo Starr...

 

And newly single Geri Halliwell did her bit by successfully steering attention away from the former Beatle (and everyone else, for that matter)...

 

Looking good, Ms H!

Meanwhile, there appeared to be a hitherto-unheard-of shortage of publicity-hungry reality TV stars on the red carpet - although an appearance by Big Brother presenter Davina McCall went some way towards redressing the balance...

 

And one-time granddad-botherer Jonathan Ross brought his kids along - although it has to be said, they didn't look too happy about it...

 

Cheer up, kids! Surely The Boat That Rocked can't be as soppy and sick-inducing as Love Actually. Er... can it?

Pictures: Wenn

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Chris Moyles rapped for Will Young jibe

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Gobby Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles has had his knuckles well and truly rapped for mocking Will Young's sexuality in a satirical song.

Apparently, eight listeners complained after Moylesy used a high-pitched, effeminate voice to parody Will in his breakfast show on 20 January.

Now, eight may not sound like very many - but remember, that's still six more than the original number of complaints received after Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross's infamous Sachsgate show first aired.

Anyway, media watchdog Ofcom has ruled that although the song was "intended to be humorous", it had the "potential to cause considerable offence" and contained comments which were "hostile" and "pejorative".

Hmmm... I have to admit I'm a bit torn on this one. I don't like Chris Moyles or his spiteful schoolboy humour. In fact, I tend to turn off the radio and listen to other people using the bathroom first thing in the morning. It's far more relaxing.

But by making a huge fuss about every childish joke or jibe that airs on radio or TV, aren't we being a tad oversensitive and playing into the hands of overzealous censors?

When it comes to broadcasters like Mr Moyles, I prefer to employ that age-old tactic: ignore them and eventually they'll go away.

What do you think?

Picture: Wenn

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Fancy dinner with Cheryl Cole?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

It'll come as no surprise to regular readers of this blog (hello you two!) to learn that Cheryl Cole has topped yet another poll.

The latest? Our Chezza is men's ideal candlelit dinner partner. The Girls Aloud star beat Kelly Brook and Jennifer Aniston to the No.1 spot in a survey of 4,000 people carried out for the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

Women, meanwhile, would most like to share a romantic meal with Johnny Depp...

 

That said, most of us wouldn't say no to second-placed George Clooney either. Hmmm... we're all so predictable, aren't we?

Those polled were also asked which celebrity they'd most like to bring back from the dead for a candlelit meal. Elvis Presley secured the most votes, closely followed by Freddie Mercury and Marilyn Monroe.

The survey was carried out in support of WWF's Earth Hour initiative - a bid to encourage one billion people to turn off the lights for an hour at 8.30pm this coming Saturday.

Campaign head Colin Butfield says: "WWF hope that millions of people across the UK will take part and celebrate the hour by holding candlelit dinners with their friends and family, even if they are secretly wishing they were with Cheryl Cole or Johnny Depp instead."

Funnily enough, Cheryl and Johnny are already coming round to my house to watch Casualty and have a fish-and-chip supper on Saturday anyway. I must remember to switch the lights out...

So which celebrity would you most like to share a candlelit dinner with? Tell us here.

Pictures: PA

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It's business as usual for Jodie Marsh

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

And so the world turns...

We hadn't heard much from Jodie Marsh over recent weeks - but you'll doubtless be thrilled to hear she was out partying at London's Café de Paris on Saturday night.

Anything worthy of note? Well, there's her new dress, which - despite the plunging neckline that almost reaches her navel - is actually quite conservative for Ms Marsh.

And then there's her hairdo - a severe black bob - which (whisper it!) I actually quite like.

So what do you think of Jodie's latest look? Tell us here.

Picture: Big Pictures

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Jade Goody dies

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Jade Goody has died at the age of 27. The reality TV star passed away in her sleep in the early hours of Mother's Day, with her mum Jackiey Budden at her side.

Speaking outside Jade's Essex home, Jackiey told reporters: "My beautiful daughter is at peace."

Jade also leaves two sons, Bobby, five, and Freddie, four - as well as her husband of one month, Jack Tweed.

Jade's former partner Jeff Brazier, father of her two sons, said: "I'm grateful the boys were able to say their goodbyes and spend that precious time with their wonderful mother.

"Bobby and Freddie are my absolute priority and I will be doing everything I can to be their rock and to give them all my love and support to get them through a confusing and upsetting time."

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has led public tributes to Jade, saying: "The whole country has admired her determination to provide a bright future for her children. She will be remembered fondly by all who knew her and her family can be extremely proud of the work she has done to raise awareness of cervical cancer, which will benefit thousands of women across the UK."

Leave your own tribute to Jade here.

Picture: PA

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Weekly blog round-up

Posted by Jane Murphy

Be first with the gossip! Subscribe to our RSS feed >>

 

Have your say on the stories that got us all talking this week:

Do you feel sorry for Kerry Katona? >>

Should Madonna adopt another child from Malawi? >>

What do you think of Caprice's shock frock? >>

Did OK! overstep the mark with its Jade Goody tribute? >>

What's poking out of Eoghan Quigg's trousers? >>

Pictures: Wenn, PA

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Mariah's $125m mansion

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

And now welcome to the latest in our occasional series: "Credit crunch? What credit crunch?"

If you're finding it hard to rustle up the mortgage or rent money this month, you may be heartened by news that not everyone is finding it tough during the current economic crisis.

Take Mariah Carey, for example. The unstoppable warbler has reportedly just put in an offer on the world's most expensive mansion, which has an eye-popping list price of $125m (around £86m).

Now, the Beverly Hills property does sound a little on the pricey side - but you do get plenty for your money.

Some examples? French limestone floors, gold-embossed leather wall coverings, gold leaf crown mouldings, a bathroom with ceiling frescoes, a 50-seat cinema, a championship tennis court and a library stocked with rare books. Oooh - I wonder if it has a copy of Fly Fishing by JR Hartley.

Sounds lovely, doesn't it? I know! Let's all have a whip-round and try to gazump Mariah! Any takers?

Picture: Rex Features

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Reality stars get fast and furious

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Last night saw Vin Diesel hit London for the UK premiere of his new movie, the fourth instalment of the Fast & Furious series. (They're up to four already? I seem to have neglected to see the other three yet. How remiss of me!)

As has become traditional at these events, Vin and his co-stars Michelle Rodriguez, Paul Walker and Jordana Brewster were joined in Leicester Square by a vast array of reality TV stars, eager to get their picture taken by the paparazzi see the new film.

Among them? Boyzone's Shane Lynch bowled up in full rally driver outfit - and at some point acquired a knitted rabbit...

 

Oh dear - he's never really been the same since Sophie Anderton gave him the glad-eye in Love Island, has he?

Also in attendance was Celebrity Big Brother's Ben Adams, who brought a "mystery woman" along - although presumably she wasn't a mystery to Ben...

 

Summer must definitely be on the way - because Ben was out without one of his trademark little knotted scarves for the first time in months.

And finally, no London premiere would be complete without an appearance from Big Brother twins Sam and Amanda Marchant...

 

You know the saying by now, folks: if the twins ain't seen it, it ain't worth seeing.

Pictures: Wenn

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What's escaping from Eggnog's trousers?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Sorry to lower the tone here - but I'm confused. What exactly is that poking out the top of Eggnog Eoghan Quigg's jeans?

According to the eagle-eyed photographer who took these snaps at the X Factor concert in Dublin last night, it's some "padding from his crotch area which has worked its way loose". But it just looks like a hanky to me.

Still, if it is a hanky, why didn't he just keep it in his pocket? Any ideas?

Pictures: Wenn

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Natasha Richardson dies

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Such sad news: Natasha Richardson has died from head injuries sustained during a seemingly innocuous skiing accident in Quebec, Canada, on Monday.

The 45-year-old actress was transferred to a New York hospital, where her family - including husband Liam Neeson and mum Vanessa Redgrave - made the heartbreaking decision to switch off her life support system after they'd said their final goodbyes.

Natasha also leaves two sons, Michael, 13, and Daniel, 12.

Liam's publicist told the press: "Liam Neeson, his sons, and the entire family are shocked and devastated by the tragic death of their beloved Natasha. They are profoundly grateful for the support, love and prayers of everyone, and ask for privacy during this very difficult time."

Many of Natasha's former colleagues and co-stars, including Sam Mendes, Lindsay Lohan and Jane Fonda, have paid tribute to the actress.

Lindsay, who starred with Natasha in 1998's The Parent Trap, said: "She was a wonderful woman and actress and treated me like I was her own. My heart goes out to her family. This is a tragic loss."

Pay your own tributes to Natasha here.

Picture: Wenn

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Who joined The Damned United?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Last night saw the London premiere of The Damned United, the new movie about football legend Brian Clough's doomed 44 days in charge at Leeds United in 1974.

Among the many familiar faces milling around in Leicester Square were the film's stars Michael Sheen and Timothy Spall, who play Cloughy and his faithful assistant Peter Taylor respectively.

Also in attendance? Bianca Gascoigne, who - as I've come to realise recently - would turn up to the opening of an envelope.

 

Mind you, Bianca is the stepdaughter of another troubled footie legend Paul Gascoigne, so maybe this film had a little more resonance for her. Or maybe she just fancied posing for the paparazzi in a low-cut dress. Who knows?

Meanwhile, Gabby Logan - daughter of former Leeds player Terry Yorath, fact fans - got the gig interviewing the stars on the red carpet...

 

And ruddy-faced fashion fascist Susannah Constantine showed up, despite not being related to any footballers...

 

Other celebrities at the premiere included Harry Potter star Emma Watson, ex-EastEnder Louisa Lytton, former chat show host (and die-hard Barnsley fan) Sir Michael Parkinson and seasoned sports commentator Tony Gubba.

If my memory serves me correctly, this may be the first time Mr Gubba's been mentioned on this blog. Better late than never, Tony! Wear a see-through dress or get a silly haircut and I'll give you a shout-out tomorrow, too.

Pictures: Wenn, Big Pictures

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Anger over OK!'s Jade tribute

Posted by Jane Murphy

I must admit I did a double-take when I spotted this week's OK! magazine on the shelves of my local newsagent.

Just in case you haven't seen it yet, I'll explain: the black-edged issue bills itself as an "official tribute" to Jade Goody with the strapline "1981-2009".

The magazine also claims to have Jade's "final words" and includes a host of tributes from the usual suspects such as Jordan and Kerry Katona, all written in the past tense as if Jade is dead.

Now, I'm stating the bleedin' obvious here - but until someone has actually died, they're not dead. So common decency would dictate that it's better to hang fire on the obituaries while the person in question is still alive.

However, the magazine's editorial team obviously felt that Jade would have died sometime between the issue going to press and its Tuesday on-sale date - so didn't want to miss the boat on delivering their tribute issue.

Jade's PR Max Clifford told the Daily Mirror: "It wasn't right. It reads like an obituary. They went too far and they got it wrong. But there's now been an apology from the editor to those close to Jade.

"They did it with the best intentions. And you have to take into account that over the previous few weeks they've covered Jade's wedding and the christening and she's loved it. But this didn't work and now they've apologised to the family."

So do you think OK! should have gone to press with their tribute issue? Have you bought it? Is an apology to Jade's family sufficient? Tell us what you think.

Picture: PA

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Caprice's shock frock!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Want to know who stole the show at last night's Meteor Ireland Music Awards in Dublin? It was, of course, lingerie model Caprice Bourret. After all, she's made such a huge contribution to Irish music over the years, hasn't she?

As you can see, Caprice opted to wear a rather interesting dress with several tantalising cutaway sections that showed off her fabulous figure...

 

However, on closer inspection, it transpired the frock also showed off a dazzlingly white tan line around her hips...

 

So what do you think of Caprice's frock? Love it? Hate it? Wondering if the look would suit you, too? Trying to remember who Caprice is anyway? Tell us here.

Pictures: Wenn, Big Pictures

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Patsy! Bruce! Tess-'n'-Vern!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Nice to see them, to see them, nice.

Some of our favourite national treasures and national-treasures-in-waiting turned out in their posh togs for last night's Royal Television Society Awards in London's Grosvenor House Hotel.

But when it came to attracting the paparazzi's attention, Bruce Forsyth was upstaged by his Strictly Come Dancing co-presenter Tess Daly, who - as the Daily Mail puts it - "showed off" her growing baby bump. (Well, you've got to have a gimmick, haven't you?)

 

Tess and doting husband Vernon Kay are expecting their second child in around three months' time.

Meanwhile, EastEnders stars Patsy Palmer and Shona McGarty struck a pose together on the red carpet...

 

Hmmm... I can't help thinking Patsy made more of an effort with her outfit than Shona - but, hey, they both looked gorgeous.

Other guests at the swanky back-slapping bash included Coronation Street's Michelle Keegan, Peep Show stars David Mitchell and Robert Webb, silver fox Phillip Schofield and Play School legend Floella Benjamin (ask your mum).

Pictures: Wenn

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Chanelle's back with a new 'do!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Been wondering what's happened to Big Brother 8 dropout Chanelle Hayes recently? To be honest, I've thought of nothing else for weeks.

Well, look! She's back! With a new hairdo! Chanelle was photographed leaving a London TV studio last night, having spent the afternoon recording a top secret new show, which is said to be a cross between Newsnight and The Krypton Factor.*

 

So do the blonde extensions signal an end to Chanelle's Victoria Beckham obsession? And, more to the point, does the new look suit her? Tell us what you think.

* Confession time: I don't really have a clue what Chanelle's new show is about, and my initial investigations have drawn a blank. But if she did start presenting a cross between Newsnight and The Krypton Factor, that would be brilliant, wouldn't it?

Pictures: Wenn

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Who's this then, Becks?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Hang on - what's going on here? Why's David Beckham staring lovingly into the eyes of a strange woman? We demand to be told!

Phew! Apparently, there's nothing sinister going on. The woman in question - Gabriella Dompe - had just put in the winning bid to bag David's T-shirt at a charity auction and gala dinner in aid of Cancer Research in Milan.

 

Indeed, Becks proved the perfect guest - happily signing autographs throughout his meal and doing his acclaimed performing seal impression showing off his superior ball skills to fellow diners...

 

What a nice man!

Pictures: Rex Features

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Is Madonna set to adopt again?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Heavens to Betsy! What with three kids and a 22-year-old boyfriend, you'd think Madonna would have her hands full at the moment. But apparently not...

Two years after adopting her son David from Malawi, the Queen of Pop has revealed she'd love to bring a second child from the African country to join her family.

"It's something I've been considering," she tells Malawi's Nation newspaper. "But I would only do that if I had the support of the Malawian people and the government."

Later in the interview, the singer adds: "Many people - especially our Malawian friends - say that David should have a Malawian brother or sister."

So should Madonna go ahead and adopt again? Tell us what you think.

Picture: PA

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Kate Moss pops out in Paris

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

You can take the girl out of Croydon - but you can't take Croydon out of the girl.

Here's Kate Moss stopping for a fag break in the middle of a fancy fashion shoot in Paris's Place de la Concorde yesterday afternoon.

 

Poor Kate also had a spot of bother when her dress slipped down to reveal more than she intended while she was clambering around on a statue.

 

But luckily, there was a handy little man on call to adjust her outfit whenever necessary.

 

Nice work if you can get it, eh?

Pictures: Big Pictures

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Do you feel sorry for Kerry?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

I know I may well be in the minority here, but I do feel sorry for Kerry Katona at the moment.

The poor woman's life seems to have spiralled out of control - and I'm not convinced she gets the love and support she needs from anyone, least of all her closest relatives.

I wasn't at all surprised to hear she'd broken up with husband Mark Croft. I was even less surprised to hear today's rumours that they've got back together. And the least surprising thing of all? An MTV film crew have been at Kerry's house to record every moment.

Indeed, I think the whole sorry saga can be summed up neatly in these few sentences from yesterday's News of the World: "Kerry has begged the MTV team not to leave her side - in case she weakens and takes Mark back.

"She wants the crew - said to loathe Croft for always putting her down - to film her every day for two months for a new show, Kerry Katona: The Divorce."

Message to MTV: nobody wants to watch that programme. Please don't make it - for all our sakes, but most of all for Kerry's...

So do you feel sorry for Kerry? Tell us here.

Pictures: Rex Features

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Any takers for Gwyn's $4,500 gym?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

And welcome to the latest in our occasional series: "Credit crunch? What credit crunch?"

Apparently, Gwyneth Paltrow has been hard at work setting up a super-swanky New York gym, along with her personal trainer Tracy Anderson.

The joining fee? A reported $4,500 (around £3,185). According to a disgruntled source, it then costs "hundreds of dollars a month" to maintain your membership.

Hmmm... I wonder what's so special about Gwyn's gym. Perhaps they have specially trained fairies to magic away your wobbly bits while you lie back and drink calorie-free champagne on a bed of rose petals.

Even so, I think I'd prefer to save my money and go for a jog round Central Park instead. How about you?

Picture: Wenn

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Liverpool 3 - Paris 0

Posted by Jane Murphy

Last week saw a headache-inducing fixtures clash in all self-respecting fashionistas' diaries, as two of our favourite cities of culture - Paris and Liverpool - held their Fashion Weeks at the same time.

Of course, Kate Moss, Lily Allen, Freida Pinto and co all hotfooted it to the French capital to ooh and ah at the eye-poppingly expensive couture.

But more fool them! By giving Liverpool the cold shoulder, they missed out on Bianca Gascoigne sporting a fabulous bird's nest hairstyle...

 

...Sam and Amanda Marchant modelling metallic minidresses...

 

...and Big Brother 9's Lisa Appleton showcasing the latest in pale pink jeans and peekaboo pants...

 

Hmmm... I'm not sure that the shades were completely necessary on a rainy day in Liverpool, Lisa.

So which of these three looks do you prefer? Tell us here.

Pictures: Wenn, Big Pictures

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Weekly blog round-up

Posted by Jane Murphy

Be first with the gossip! Subscribe to our RSS feed >>

 

Have your say on this week's hottest celebrity stories:

What do you think of Katie Holmes' shock new hairstyle? >>

Is Ashley Cole really the most hated celebrity in the UK? >>

Victoria Beckham's latest outfits: fashion hits or misses? >>

Jennifer Aniston splits with John Mayer. Surprised? >>

How shocking!? Britney Spears has a wardrobe malfunction >>

Pictures: PA, Rex Features, Wenn

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Middle-age rampage! Pammy, Courtney and more >>
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They said what? This week's celebrity golden gobs >>
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Gordon and Cheryl - together at last!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Contrary to what you may read in certain newspapers, Prime Minister Gordon Brown is far from daft.

Want proof? Well, notice how he managed to squeeze in between Alesha Dixon and Cheryl Cole for this photograph - while his poor wife Sarah was stuck at the back next to Chris Moyles.

Hotfoot from Mount Kilimanjaro, the Comic Relief climbers called in at No.10 to hear the PM pledge £2m of Government funding to top up the £1.5m already donated by the public to the BT Red Nose Climb. The donation will go towards a malaria project in Tanzania.

 

Want to pledge more to this worthy cause? You can donate via your mobile using the short codes below. Orange is giving the whole of the donation via SMS to Comic Relief.

Text yes to 66609 to donate £5
Text climb to 88808 to sponsor the climbers for £1
Or go to the Comic Relief website

Pictures: Big Pictures

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Ricky meets Elmo!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Just in case any of us were in any doubt, here's proof that Ricky Gervais has well and truly hit the big time in the US: he's recorded an interview with Elmo on Sesame Street. Result!

Sadly, we won't get to see the full exchange until the programme airs in November, but in the meantime here's a series of out-takes of the two Hollywood superstars:

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Jen and John split - again!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Remember how Jennifer Aniston was saying only the other day that no relationship lasts forever?

Well - what d'you know? - Jen's year-long on-off romance with singer John Mayer is apparently very much off again, following her recent trip to Europe.

"They had some disagreements and decided to not continue to see each other," a mysterious source tells People magazine. "Jen is moving on with her life like she always does. She seems happy."

The break-up comes just days after John's "people" denied stories he'd been spotted buying a diamond engagement ring. Indeed, rumours suggest it was the singer who called time on the relationship.

Hmmm... maybe he just couldn't take the pressure of everyone expecting them to get married and have babies. Or maybe he's just a complete and utter fool. What do you think?

Picture: PA

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Katie's hair today

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Heavens to Betsy - how did that happen? Katie Holmes seems to have sprouted a long mane of glossy locks overnight.

The actress upped her Hollywood glamour quota for yesterday's Tokyo premiere of husband Tom Cruise's much-maligned movie Valkyrie.

Maybe they figured that if Katie distracted everyone with her hairdo, nobody would mention how rubbish the film was.

 

So now the all-important question: does Katie look better with long or short hair? Tell us what you think.

Pictures: Rex Features

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What happened to that makeunder, Chantelle?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Remember how Chantelle Houghton recently underwent a radical makeunder for BBC3's Snog, Marry, Avoid?

Well, this is just a hunch, but I think she may have had a rethink on that whole 'not wearing loads of fake tan, make-up and hair extensions' thing - judging by her appearance outside London's Crystal Club last night.

 

Still, each to their own, eh? What do you think of Chantelle's trademark look? Tell us here.

Pictures: Big Pictures

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Chantelle's shocking makeover >>
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Reese brings her monster hit to London

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Another night, another premiere... Reese Witherspoon stepped out in her very best Prada LBD for yesterday's VIP screening of Monsters vs Aliens in London.

She was joined on the red carpet by a one-eyed monster, who eschewed Prada in favour of his birthday suit. How rude!

 

Also working the crowds in Leicester Square was Reese's co-star Kiefer Sutherland, who's apparently in the capital for 24 hours (oooh - maybe he could make a TV series about it)...

 

Let's hope Kiefer wasn't too disappointed that nobody had brought along a humungous oil painting of him, as they'd done for his former fiancée Julia Roberts the night before.

Still, Reese and Kiefer's premiere did have one thing that Julia's didn't. Well, two things, actually...

 

Yep, this country's fiercest film critics Sam and Amanda Marchant came out of hiding to put in an appearance on the red carpet. Hurrah!

Other celebrities in attendance included veteran DJ and erstwhile King of the Jungle Tony Blackburn, TV presenter Alice Beer and celebrated Sugar Puffs frontman Honey Monster...

 

Hmmm... it's still not quite the stellar turnout you'd expect for a Hollywood premiere, is it? Where is everybody nowadays?

Pictures: Wenn

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Julia Roberts is back on the red carpet!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

It's been - oooh! - ages since we last saw Julia Roberts on the red carpet. She even watched the Oscars from her living room sofa this year, you know.

But the super-smiley actress made a rare public appearance at last night's London premiere of her new movie, Duplicity, along with super-suave co-star Clive Owen.

Dressed in a smart but low-key Dolce & Gabbana black suit, Julia worked the crowds for half an hour - and just about managed not to bat an eyelid when asked to sign a humungous oil painting of herself...

 

What a pro!

Still, I'm not sure if Clive quite knew what to say when he was confronted by the portrait...

 

If in doubt, keep smiling and wave a ballpoint pen around, mate.

For some reason, yesterday's premiere was missing the usual gaggles of C-list celebrities and hangers-on. In fact, the only stars of any note (I use that phrase loosely) who showed up were former Emmerdale actress Adele Silva and Claire from Steps.

But where on earth were Sam and Amanda Marchant? After all, no London premiere is complete without an appearance from the Big Brother twins. Let's hope Julia wasn't too disappointed...

Pictures: Wenn

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Why's Peter touching Jordan's tummy?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Hang on! Drop everything! Hold the front page! Clear 96 pages in OK! magazine!

As you can see, Jordan and Peter Andre have been spotted adopting the traditional paparazzi-pleasing "We're expecting a baby and we're hoping to sell the story to the highest bidder" pose in Los Angeles yesterday afternoon.

You know the one? Man puts his hand flat on his partner's tummy while staring at her with a mixture of love and concern. Well, the couple stood like this for quite some time while the paps got their shots. Hmmm...

But then the naughty pair soon blew our pregnancy theory well and truly out of the water. Peter promptly adopted the "My wife's got a great bum and I'm allowed to have a good old grope" pose...

 

And then they both rented some rollerskates - and Pete struck his very best "I'm not really that good at skating" pose...

 

Jordan and Peter may not yet have reached Hollywood superstardom - but they certainly know how to keep the paparazzi entertained...

Pictures: Wenn

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Everyone hates Ashley Cole!

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Poor Ashley Cole. Not only is the under-fire footballer heading for a showdown with wife Cheryl following his drunk and disorderly arrest - but now he's also got to contend with being the UK's least popular celebrity.

The England defender has just topped a survey of 4,000 adults by www.onepoll.com to uncover the country's most hated star - beating off stiff competition from seasoned irritants Jeremy Clarkson and Jonathan Ross, who took second and third place respectively.

But what has Ashley ever done to deserve such contempt - apart from cheat on Cheryl and turn his nose up at a £52,000-a-week salary, that is?

Mind you, it seems we really aren't that keen on flashy footballers in general. Four (count 'em - four!) high-profile players made it into the Top 10.

Proving only slightly less popular than Ashley, Manchester United winker (yes - winker) Cristiano Ronaldo came fourth, his ever-fragrant teammate Wayne Rooney was sixth and Chelsea's newly single Frank Lampard was eighth.

The only woman in the Top 10? Our old mate Heather Mills, who came in at No.5...

 

Tsk - isn't it time for people to forget all about the one-time Beatle-botherer now? After all, if she regularly appears in polls like this, it'll only keep her in the public eye - and before you know it, she'll be shouting the odds on GMTV again. And who wants that?

The remaining three places on the list were taken up by political bounceback king Peter Mandelson (No.7) our esteemed leader Gordon Brown (No.9) and complete and utter banker Fred Goodwin (No.10).

So what do you think of the list? Does Ashley deserve to be No.1 - or should somebody else have taken his place? Tell us here.

Pictures: Rex Features, Wenn

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Jen: 'Perfect relationships don't exist'

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Jennifer Aniston has been pouring her heart out to the Daily Mail. Quite why anyone would want to do that is beyond me - unless, of course, it was to promote a new movie. Oh - hang on...

Still, she does say a few interesting things. Asked if there's such a thing as a perfect relationship, Jen replies: "I don't have one and I don't think it exists. We are just fooling ourselves if we think it does. Whoever said that every relationship has to last forever? That's hoping for too much. I think every relationship is a world unto itself."

And what about her future with current squeeze John Mayer? "I don't really think about it," Jen insists. "I have never been a woman who dreams about getting married and having children and having that house in Connecticut. On the contrary, I've always gone with the flow.

"I enjoy the moment because life goes on while you try to make plans. It's better to make the most of every second. So I just try to live in the present."

Now, I do admire Jen's attitude - but I can't help thinking she's wrong about perfect relationships not existing... What do you think?

Picture: PA

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Posh's latest outfits: hits or misses?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Good old Victoria Beckham has given Milan's legions of fashionistas plenty to talk about during her current trip to the Italian city.

First up, there was her decision to wear a white faux fur coat to the footie on Sunday afternoon. Suitable attire? I don't think so! After all, supposing somebody had dropped their Bovril down it.

Next came Posh's... erm... figure-enhancing little black dress worn to her dinner date with husband David later that evening...

 

Now, if you can take your eyes off her incredible cleavage for one second, you may like to join the debate on whether or not it's a good idea to wear a belt over your cardigan.

US gossip Perez Hilton certainly doesn't think so - but then his fashion sense isn't necessarily the best in the world. (Pink hair and multi-coloured sneakers, anyone?)

And finally, here's Mrs B in another eye-catching, figure-hugging dress during last night's dinner date...

 

Like it? Tell us here.

Pictures: Wenn, Big Pictures

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Your what's hanging out, Britney?

Posted by Jane Murphy

 

Here's everyone's favourite lip-synching comeback queen Britney Spears relaxing on the roof of her Miami hotel yesterday afternoon.

Still, she deserves a little me-time after the excitement of the past few days - not least the embarrassing wardrobe malfunction that took place on stage in Tampa on Sunday night.

Having finished her energetic performance of 'I'm A Slave 4 U', Brit-Brit assumed her microphone was switched off (she mimes, remember). However, it wasn't - so she inadvertently told the packed stadium: "My p***y was hanging out." Classy!

Picture: Big Pictures

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