Tuesday, January 6
Travolta, Preston bring Jett's ashes home
OCALA, Fla., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- John Travolta and Kelly Preston have brought their only son Jett's ashes home to Ocala, Fla., from the Bahamas, a source told "Entertainment Tonight."
Jonas Brothers to be Globes presenters
HOLLYWOOD, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- The Jonas Brothers have agreed to be presenters at "The 66th annual Golden Globe Awards" show in Hollywood, organizers said.
Polanski wants sex case moved from L.A.
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Roman Polanski's attorneys have asked that a decades-old sex offense case against the French filmmaker be handled by a judge outside of Los Angeles.
Craig Ferguson marries art dealer
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Scottish-born comedian Craig Ferguson announced on his U.S. talk show Monday night he has married his longtime girlfriend Megan Wallace Cunningham.
Madonna stars in Louis Vuitton ads
LONDON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. pop star Madonna is the star of Louis Vuitton's sexy new advertising campaign, the Daily Telegraph reports.
Swayze admits he's 'going through hell'
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- Hollywood actor Patrick Swayze admits he sometimes feels scared and angry in his battle against pancreatic cancer.
Lohan: Ronson and I didn't break up
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Lindsay Lohan is denying reports claiming she and her girlfriend Samantha Ronson have broken up.
Monday, January 5
Spears, Obama hit by Twitter tampering
LONDON, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Hackers tampered with the Twitter.com accounts of President-elect Barack Obama, pop star Britney Spears and actor Stephen Fry, Britain's Daily Telegraph said.
'Button,' 'Knight' up for top PGA award
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Producers of "The Dark Knight," "Frost/Nixon" and "Milk" are among the nominees announced Monday for the Producers Guild of America's top film prize.
Jett Travolta died of seizure disorder
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- An autopsy conducted on the son of Hollywood movie stars John Travolta and Kelly Preston indicated his death was caused by a seizure disorder, a source said.
Hewitt, McCall call off engagement
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. television star Jennifer Love Hewitt is no longer engaged to Scottish actor Ross McCall, a source told People magazine.
Report: Arquette and Jane to divorce
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Television actress Patricia Arquette has filed for divorce from actor Thomas Jane, her husband of two years, in Los Angeles County Superior Court, TMZ said.
Journalists released in Somalia
MOGADISHU, Somalia, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- A British journalist and a Spanish photographer have been freed by Somali kidnappers after being held for 40 days in caves, officials said.
Blu-ray's future may be bright, but short
NEW YORK, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Blu-ray may be the format of choice to succeed DVDs, but it's unclear for how long it will do so before discs becomes obsolete, some industry experts say.
Charity Wakefield cast in new U.S. drama
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- British actress Charity Wakefield has been cast in "Legally Mad," David E. Kelley's new NBC drama series, The Hollywood Reporter said.
CBS snags first Times front-page ad
NEW YORK, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- CBS says it has become the first advertiser to appear in a front page ad in The New York Times.
Diaz, Lange, Rock to be Globes presenters
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Cameron Diaz, Jessica Lange and Chris Rock have signed up to be presenters at "The 66th annual Golden Globe Awards" gala in Los Angeles, organizers said.
'First Feline' India dead at 18
WASHINGTON, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- India, the Bush family's pet cat, has died at the White House at the age of 18, a spokeswoman for First Lady Laura Bush said Monday.
'X' marks last of 'Princess Diaries' books
NEW YORK, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. author Meg Cabot says "Volume X: Forever Princess" is the last book she plans to write in her popular "Princess Diaries" series.
Rebecca Romijn gives birth to twin girls
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Rebecca Romijn has given birth to twin girls named Dolly Rebecca Rose and Charlie Tamara Tulip, People magazine said it confirmed Monday.
Anthony, Rubio to sing at Inaugural Gala
WASHINGTON, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Singers Marc Anthony and Paulina Rubio are among entertainers slated to perform at the upcoming Latino Inaugural Gala in Washington, organizers said.
New Showtime series to debut at Netflix
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- The new Showtime series "United States of Tara" is to make its debut at Netflix before it premieres on television, Netflix, Inc. announced.
LA funeral held for Majel Roddenberry
HOLLYWOOD, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- About 300 people, some in "Star Trek" costumes, attended the Los Angeles funeral of Majel Barrett Roddenberry on Sunday, E! News reported.
Tennant back on stage as Hamlet
LONDON, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Scottish actor David Tennant has returned to the London stage production of "Hamlet" after undergoing back surgery, the BBC said.
Chmerkovskiy and Smirnoff get engaged
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5 (UPI) -- Professional dancers Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Karina Smirnoff have gotten engaged in Las Vegas, a source told People magazine.
EDITORIAL: Another Indictment of Secondhand Smoke
Jan. 5--WASHINGTON'S INDOOR SMOKE BAN -- a law pioneered in Pierce County -- is looking even smarter than anyone first thought.
Sunday, January 4
Church where Shakespeare buried at risk
STRATFORD-UPON-AVON, England, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- The church in Stratford-upon-Avon where England's most famous writer is buried could be forced to close without major repairs, its vicar says.
Belzer proud of John Munch character
NEW YORK, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Actor Richard Belzer says he does not think it's just novelty that his Detective John Munch character has appeared on 10 different U.S. TV series.
Rutherford of 'Gossip' splits from husband
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Pregnant actress Kelly Rutherford, who appears on the hit U.S. TV series "Gossip Girl," is divorcing her husband, Daniel Giersch, documents show.
Mesnick in love with his 'Bachelor' pick
KIRKLAND, Wash., Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Jason Mesnick of Kirkland, Wash., says he is in love with the woman he chose while appearing in this season's episodes of the hit U.S. TV series "The Bachelor."
Prince to release three albums in 2009
NEW YORK, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Pop star Prince says he is working on three new musical albums he intends to release without the aid of a U.S. record label.
Twin sister duo among Eurovision hopefuls
LONDON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- British composer Andrew Lloyd Webber says he has chosen six musical acts, including a twin sister duo, to fight for a Eurovision Song Contest spot.
Movie critics tab 'Bashir' as best picture
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. movie critics say the animated documentary "Waltz with Bashir" was the best film of 2008, giving it a National Society of Film Critics award.
MuzikMafia members enjoy outcast role
NASHVILLE, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- MuzikMafia co-founder Jon Nicholson says the 7-year-old country Nashville band enjoys being seen as a collection of outcasts.
Many Broadway shows facing final curtain
NEW YORK, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- More than a dozen of New York's Broadway plays and musicals have announced they will stop all showings by the end of January.
SAG official defends call for strike
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Doug Allen, national executive director of the Screen Actors Guild, says a call for a strike authorization from members of the U.S. union is justifiable.
Saturday, January 3
National critics name 'Bashir' best film
NEW YORK, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- The National Society of Film Critics, in a vote held in New York Saturday, named "Waltz with Bashir" its Best Picture of the Year 2008.
Actor, writer Sam Shepard charged with DUI
NORMAL, Ill., Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Sam Shepard, the writer and actor who won a Pulitzer Prize for his play "Buried Child," was charged with drunken driving Saturday in Illinois.
Richard Attenborough stable after fall
LONDON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Doctors in London say movie actor-director Lord Richard Attenborough is in stable condition after suffering a head injury in a fall at his home last month.
Jett Travolta autopsy to be in Bahamas
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- An autopsy will be conducted on the body of John Travolta's son in the Bahamas before being flown to Florida for burial, lawyers for the actor said Saturday.
Girl born to French justice minsiter
PARIS, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- France's unmarried justice minister is a new mother and is maintaining her silence about the identity of the proud papa.
Lopez, Anthony appear happily married
SAN JUAN, PR, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Singers Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez looked like the ideal married couple while attending a recent ceremony in Puerto Rico, witnesses say.
Long-ago museum thefts documented
LONDON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- A World War II-era employee of London's Victoria and Albert Museum once decorated his home with scores of stolen museum pieces, newly released documents reveal.
Next Doctor Who a veritable unknown
LONDON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- The career of actor Matt Smith got a lift with the BBC's announcement he will be the next star of the British TV mainstay "Doctor Who."
Gervais slams surgical weight-loss efforts
LONDON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- British comedian Ricky Gervais says people who use risky surgical procedures to lose weight are simply lazy.
Calif. regulators targeting flat-screen TV
SACRAMENTO, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- California regulators say all flat-screen televisions being sold statewide should represent the most energy-efficient models by 2011.
Source says Perry, McCoy have broken up
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- U.S. singers Katy Perry and Travis McCoy have ended their romantic relationship following a vacation in Mexico, a source says.
Hefner learned about love from movies
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Hugh Hefner, founder of Playboy magazine, says he first learned about love by watching scores of Hollywood movies as a child.
Michigan eyeing new TV, film studios
DETROIT, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Michigan may soon house three new TV and movie production studios as part of a nearly completed $80 million development deal, state film officials say.
Winslet diet secret is exercise DVDs
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- British actress Kate Winslet says she has stayed a size 6 movie star through the use of exercise DVDs and adhering to a sensible diet.
Gaza cease-fire growing focus for stars
GAZA, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- A growing number of celebrities say Israel should stop all military action in the Gaza Strip immediately.
Fergie getting fit for wedding day
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- U.S. pop singer Fergie says she has been focused on slimming and tightening her body through exercise in preparation for her upcoming wedding.
Sources say Federline has new girlfriend
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Rapper Kevin Federline, ex-husband of U.S. pop star Britney Spears, has been dating a new woman despite his claims to the contrary, sources say.
U.S. album sales dropped in 2008
NEW YORK, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Album sales in the United States dropped by 14 percent in 2008 with "Tha Carter III" by rapper Lil' Wayne taking top sales honors for the year, data shows.
Raul Castro: Ready to talk to Obama
HAVANA, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Cuban President Raul Castro says he's repeating his offer to hold direct talks with U.S. President-elect Barack Obama.
Drug overdose killed Dr. Dre's son
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- An overdose of heroin and morphine caused the death of Andre Young Jr., son of U.S. rapper Dr. Dre, the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner says.
Obama daughters prepare for new school
WASHINGTON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- School officials say they will do what they can to help U.S. President-elect Barack Obama's daughters fit in at the Sidwell Friends School in Washington.
EDITORIAL: Smoking Bans May Prove to Be Boon for Business
Jan. 3--Two years after the first local bans on indoor smoking in public places were put in place, it's good to see reports that area bars and restaurants have not suffered financially.
Friday, January 2
John Travolta's son, Jett, dead at 16
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Jett Travolta, the 16-year-old son of Hollywood film stars John Travolta and Kelly Preston, has died in the Bahamas, Travolta's lawyer confirmed to TMZ Friday.
John Travolta's Son, Jett, Dead at 16
Jett Travolta, the 16-year-old son of Hollywood film stars John Travolta and Kelly Preston, has died in the Bahamas, Travolta's lawyer confirmed to TMZ Friday.
New Doctor Who to be named soon
LONDON, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The name of the 11th actor to play the iconic British television character Doctor Who is to be revealed shortly, the BBC said.
Iggy Pop starring in insurance ad campaign
LONDON, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Punk rock icon Iggy Pop has signed on to star in an advertising campaign for swiftcover.com, the British insurance company announced Friday.
Kenyan president signs media law
NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- President Mwai Kibaki signed a bill Friday that gives the Kenyan government broad powers to monitor journalists, especially broadcasters.
Will Smith named Top Money-Making Star
GROTON, Mass., Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Hollywood actor Will Smith has been voted the Top Money-Making Star of 2008 in Quigley Publishing Company's 77th annual poll, the company said.
Huppert to be Cannes jury president
CANNES, France, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- French actress Isabelle Huppert has been named president of the jury of the 62nd Festival de Cannes, organizers of the famed film festival said Friday.
Heather Locklear DUI charge dismissed
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Heather Locklear has been fined $700 and placed on three years probation after pleading no contest to misdemeanor reckless driving, TMZ said.
Celebrities tied to Malaysian sex party
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- A noted actress and female newscaster were among 26 people arrested in the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lampur for taking part in a sex party, sources allege.
Siblings apart for 40 years are neighbors
MANCHESTER, England, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- A British brother and sister, reunited after nearly 40 years, discovered they had been living just 300 yards from each other, officials say.
Hudson may perform at Obama inauguration
NEW YORK, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Singer and actress Jennifer Hudson is considering singing at U.S. President-elect Barack Obama's upcoming inauguration, a source says.
Queen names Robert Plant CBE
LONDON, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Queen Elizabeth II has named singer Robert Plant a Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
Universal films grossed $2.8B in 2008
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Universal Pictures says it has recorded its biggest year ever for the second year in a row, with 2008 global theatrical grosses totaling $2.8 billion.
'Valkyrie' globe replica unauthorized
NEW YORK, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- A U.S. collector who owns Adolf Hitler's globe says the makers of the World War II film "Valkyrie" used the copyright model's likeness without permission.
Blonsky, Golden cleared in airport brawl
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Nikki Blonsky and Bianca Golden have been cleared of all charges stemming from a West Indian airport brawl involving their families, police said.
Coolio, Troyer sign up for 'Big Brother'
LONDON, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Coolio, Verne Troyer and La Toya Jackson are among those competing in the next edition of the British reality show "Celebrity Big Brother," the BBC said.
Winehouse named biggest celeb train wreck
NEW YORK, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- A poll conducted by the celebrity gossip Web site Imnotobsessed.com suggested British singer Amy Winehouse was the biggest celebrity train wreck of 2008.
Jackman drops out of Cleopatra film talks
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Australian film actor Hugh Jackman dropped out of talks to star in "Cleo," director Steven Soderbergh's upcoming 3-D, live-action musical, Variety.com said.
The Dead to rise for tour this spring
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The surviving members of the iconic rock group the Grateful Dead have announced plans to embark on their first U.S. concert tour in five years.
'Ladies' still No. 1 on U.S. record chart
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- Beyonce's "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" is No. 1 on the U.S. record chart for a fourth week, Billboard.com reported.
Thursday, January 1
Health education narrative drops barriers
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Entertainment-education is a common strategy for incorporating health and other educational messages into popular entertainment media, U.S. researchers say.
'American Idol' finalist Glocksen weds
NAPERVILLE, Ill., Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Gina Glocksen, a finalist on "American Idol" and host of the reality show "American Idol Extra," married in a New Year's Eve ceremony.
Spears's brother in New Year's Eve wedding
NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Britney Spears spent New Year's Eve in New Orleans celebrating her brother's marriage to her sister's longtime manager.
Senator frees rapper Forte from prison
SALT LAKE CITY, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, says he helped John Forte earn his freedom from prison because of the rapper's plans for a new life.
Winfrey gives Ron Clark Academy $365,000
ATLANTA, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- The heads of the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta say they have received a $365,000 donation from TV talk show host Oprah Winfrey.
Radcliffe eyeing musical performances
NEW YORK, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- British actor Daniel Radcliffe, star of the "Harry Potter" films, says he would like to perform in musicals after a recent New York performance.
Winehouse may appeal drug charges
BERGEN, Norway, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- British singer Amy Winehouse may appear in a Norwegian court to appeal drug charges against her and her husband from 2007, a prosecutor says.
Izzard offers Mumbai victim a private show
LONDON, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- British comedian Eddie Izzard has performed a stand-up comedy routine at a London hospital for a victim of the Mumbai terror attacks, the victim's father says.
Microsoft: Leap year behind Zune problems
REDMOND, Wash., Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Thousands of Zune MP3 players have stopped working across the United States due to the way the device handles leap years, Microsoft Corp. says.
Viacom, Time Warner reach agreement
NEW YORK, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Viacom Inc. and Time Warner Cable Inc. narrowly escaped a standoff that would have left millions of U.S. subscribers with blacked out programming.
Wednesday, December 31
'Inglourious Basterds' to open next summer
NEW YORK, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- The Weinstein Co. and Universal Pictures said Wednesday the U.S. release date for Quentin Tarantino's World War II epic "Inglourious Basterds" has been set.
Elmo, Grover & Oscar to appear on 'Scrubs'
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- "Sesame Street" stars Elmo, Grover and Oscar the Grouch are to make guest appearances on an upcoming episode of the U.S. sit-com "Scrubs," ABC said Wednesday.
Local Cable Customers Could Lose Popular Channels Thanks to Corporate Fight
Dec. 31--A dispute between two far-off corporations could mean a shutdown of cable channels for Bright House Networks customers in Bakersfield, affecting everything from morning cartoons to wrestling to late-night laughs.
Viacom Channels May Go Dark on Time Warner
Viacom says Time Warner Cable is overreaching for profit at the expense of its viewers by letting Viacom's channels go dark Thursday.
Dane Cook's brother arrested for theft
BOSTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Dane Cook's half-brother has pleaded not guilty to charges he stole millions of dollars while working as the U.S. comic actor's personal business manager.
Viacom channels may go dark on Time Warner
NEW YORK, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Viacom says Time Warner Cable is overreaching for profit at the expense of its viewers by letting Viacom's channels go dark Thursday.
Gonzales to defend his reputation in book
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Alberto Gonzales says he is writing a book to counter critics' contentions he was negligent as U.S. attorney general under the Bush administration.
Dubai cancels fireworks, expats scramble
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Western expatriates in Dubai scrambled to make other plans Wednesday after the state's rulers called off an opulent New Year's celebration, observers said.
BRIEF: Cable Channels Could Go Dark
Dec. 31--Cable networks such as MTV, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon could go off the air tonight for Time Warner Cable subscribers, unless the company can come to a new contract agreement with Viacom Inc.
'Fearless' is No. 1 on U.S. album chart
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Taylor Swift's "Fearless" is No. 1 on the U.S. album chart for a fourth, non-consecutive week, Billboard.com reported Wednesday.
Matt Dillon Arrested for Speeding in Vt.
U.S. film star Matt Dillon has been arrested and charged with speeding in Vermont for allegedly driving 106 mph. on Interstate-91.
Howard: 'Frost/Nixon' suspenseful, funny
NEW YORK, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Hollywood film director Ron Howard says he enjoyed reading Peter Morgan's play "Frost/Nixon" so much, he immediately wanted to see it acted out on stage.
Matt Dillon arrested for speeding in Vt.
NEWBURY, Vt., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- U.S. film star Matt Dillon has been arrested and charged with speeding in Vermont for allegedly driving 106 mph. on Interstate-91.
'Tha Carter III' is year's best-selling CD
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Lil Wayne's "Tha Carter III" was the best-selling album of 2008 in the United States, selling 2.88 million copies, Billboard.com reported Wednesday.
U.S. television going digital next month
WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- U.S. officials are urging consumers to order vouchers for digital TV boxes as soon as possible if they want to be ready for the conversion from analog.
Kiwis first to celebrate New Year
AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- New Year's celebrations were kicked off at midnight Wednesday in Auckland, New Zealand, which welcomed 2009 with a stunning fireworks display, observers said.
Spain TV station bombed in terror attack
BILBAO, Spain, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Basque separatists are suspected in a van bomb that exploded Wednesday at the offices of a regional television station in Bilbao, Spain, officials said.
Czechs to celebrate EU post at midnight
PRAGUE, Czech Republic, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Czech Vice Prime Minister for European Union Affairs Alexandr Vondra will launch the Czech EU presidency in the first minute of the new year, officials said.
Michael Pitt may star in Scorsese TV drama
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Michael Pitt is in final negotiations for a lead role in "Boardwalk Empire," director Martin Scorsese's HBO drama pilot, which is set in 1920s Atlantic City.
Clintons heading to Times Square
NEW YORK, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Former U.S. President Bill Clinton, his wife Sen. Hillary Clinton and the Jonas Brothers have agreed to help ring in the New Year in New York's Times Square.
'Golden Pond' boat on eBay
MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A floating piece of U.S. cinematic history -- one of the boats used in the filming of the Oscar-winning "On Golden Pond" -- is up for sale on eBay.
Year to end on a frugal note
NEW YORK, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Ringing in the new year is expected to be toned down this year, as revelers adjust to the downturn in the U.S. economy, observers said.
Holocaust Love-Story Hoax OK By Hollywood Standards: A Children's Book Unknowingly Based on a False Tale of Love During the Holocaust is Being Yanked, but a Movie Deal About the Same Story is Still on Track.
Dec. 31--Herman Rosenblat stood in the doorway of his North Miami-Dade condominium Tuesday and said he never meant any harm.
Tuesday, December 30
'Spaces' decorator arrested for DUI
DECATUR, Ill., Dec. 30 (UPI) -- "Trading Spaces" interior designer Doug Wilson was arrested Tuesday for allegedly driving under the influence in Decatur, Ill., TMZ said.
DMX pleads guilty to drug, animal charges
PHOENIX, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Rapper DMX pleaded guilty Tuesday in a Phoenix court to one count each of animal cruelty, theft, marijuana possession and possession of a narcotic.
Titanic letters up for auction
NEW YORK, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Two rare letters from first-class passengers aboard the doomed British ocean liner Titanic will hit the auction block next month, an auction house said Tuesday.
Underwood: 'Dirty Sexy Money' canceled
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Actor Blair Underwood says that, although there has been no official announcement, his U.S. television show "Dirty Sexy Money" has been canceled.
Pattinson rips comic over Heath impression
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- British actor Robert Pattinson booed and yelled at a comedian who poked fun of Australian actor Heath Ledger's death, a source told Usmagazine.com.
Minnillo, Tiegs to be 'Beauty' judges
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Vanessa Minnillo is the host of the new U.S. competition show "True Beauty," which secretly scrutinizes the behavior of its gorgeous contestants, ABC said.
Diddy to help get revelers home safely
NEW YORK, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Hip-hop icon Sean "Diddy" Combs says he is helping arrange free taxi rides home for New Year's Eve revelers in New York City.
Balfour indicted for Hudson slayings
CHICAGO, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- William Balfour was formally indicted Tuesday for the slayings of three members of singer-actress Jennifer Hudson's family in Chicago.
MLK son Dexter wins ruling vs. siblings
ATLANTA, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- A Georgia judge says two children of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. must pay some costs incurred by a sibling they're fighting in court.
N. Korea: Kim Jong Il attends concert
PYONGYANG, North Korea, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- North Korea's news agency says Kim Jong Il attended a concert, one of a series of recent statements portraying the North Korean leader as active and healthy.
Olan Mills goes into bankruptcy
LONDON, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- British portrait firm Olan Mills Photography said it had collapsed into administration (similar to bankruptcy) and customers feared losing gifts they paid for.
Flatts to perform at 'Choice' awards
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- The country music act Rascal Flatts has signed up to perform at the "35th annual People's Choice Awards" show in Los Angeles, CBS said Tuesday.
Doobie Bros to perform at Detroit benefit
DETROIT, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- The North American International Auto Show Tuesday announced it has booked the iconic rock band The Doobie Brothers to perform at an upcoming fundraiser.
'Everlasting' earns top Swedish award nods
STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- The Swedish Film Institute has nominated "Involuntary," "Let the Right One In" and "Everlasting Moments" for its best film Golden Beetle award.
Popeye copyright set to expire in Europe
LONDON, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- The copyright on the iconic character Popeye the Sailor is set to expire in Europe this week, 70 years after the death of its U.S. creator, Elzie Segar.
'Terminator' added to U.S. film registry
WASHINGTON, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- "Deliverance," "The Invisible Man," "Sergeant York" and "The Terminator" have been added to the U.S. National Film Registry of the Library of Congress.
Funeral held in Ireland for Bond girl
HOWTH, Ireland, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Hundreds of mourners attended the funeral for slain advertising executive and former actress Celine Cawley in Howth, Ireland, The Irish Times reported.
Mia Farrow's daughter Lark dead at 35
NEW YORK, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Actress Mia Farrow's Vietnamese-born, adopted daughter Lark Previn has died at the age of 35, following a long illness, the New York medical examiner said.
Woody Harrelson weds longtime gal pal
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- Woody Harrelson's publicist has confirmed that the actor married his longtime girlfriend Laura Louie in Maui, which is where the couple live.
Monday, December 29
Eckhart, Fishburne to be Globes presenters
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Aaron Eckhart, Laurence Fishburne and Blake Lively have joined the lineup of presenters for "The 66th annual Golden Globe Awards" show in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Watson unsure if she'll act forever
LONDON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- British teen actress Emma Watson says she has no "use for" the millions of dollars she has earned for co-starring in the "Harry Potter" movies.
'Phantom' sequel to open next year
LONDON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- British composer Andrew Lloyd Webber says his sequel to the stage musical "Phantom of the Opera" is slated to open at the end of next year.
Deschanel and Gibbard to wed
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Zooey Deschanel is engaged to musician Ben Gibbard, a source close to the couple told Usmagazine.com.
Bristol Palin gives birth to a son
PALMER, Alaska, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Bristol Palin's great aunt has confirmed the 18-year-old daughter of former U.S. vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin has given birth to a son.
281 features vying for best picture prize
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Two hundred eighty-one feature films are eligible for the 2008 Academy Award for best picture, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said Monday.
Promises rehab blasts Star report
MALIBU, Calif., Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Promises Treatment Centers says it has demanded Star magazine retract its story claiming the California facility is courting celebrities for publicity.
Winslet deeply affected by 'Reader' role
NEW YORK, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- British actress Kate Winslet says she was deeply affected by the experience of portraying a former SS guard in the post-World War II-set movie "The Reader."
'Grey's' actress Chyler Leigh pregnant
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Chyler Leigh's publicist says the U.S. actress is pregnant with her third child.
Marcille and Gross get engaged
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Eva Marcille says she was shocked when her beau, actor Lance Gross, proposed to her on Christmas Eve.
AFI honors Fey, 'Slumdog'
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The American Film Institute says the global success of "Slumdog Millionaire" and the soaring career of Tina Fey made its 2008 Moments of Significance list.
Magazine: Best U.S.children's hospitals
NEW YORK, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia tops Parents magazine's 10 Best Children's Hospitals survey.
'Office' star to make Broadway debut
NEW YORK, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Melora Hardin will make her Broadway debut in the stage musical "Chicago," Playbill.com reported.
Alexander Nevsky voted greatest Russian
MOSCOW, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Medieval Prince Alexander Nevsky has been named the greatest Russian of all time in a television poll, officials said Monday.
Report: Lopez, Anthony to split in Feb.
NEW YORK, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Singers Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony plan to announce their impending divorce in February, a source told the New York Daily News.
'DWTS' star Ballas suffers groin injury
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Professional dancer Mark Ballas said in Los Angeles that an injury has forced him to pull out of the "Dancing with the Stars" stage tour for a couple of weeks.
14.3M watch Wallace & Gromit special
LONDON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- About 14.3 million viewers tuned in to watch "A Matter of Loaf and Death," the latest installment in Britain's "Wallace & Gromit" franchise, the BBC said.
Oscar ballots mailed out to voters
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Nomination ballots for the 81st Academy Awards have been mailed to the 5,810 voting members of Hollywood's Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Sunday, December 28
Laura Bush: Shoe thrower lucky Saddam gone
WASHINGTON, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. first lady Laura Bush says she isn't laughing off the incident in Iraq in which a reporter disrupted a news conference by hurling his shoes at her man.
Film festival to honor Penn for 'Milk'
PALM SPRINGS, Calif., Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Actor Sean Penn will be honored by the Palm Springs International Film Festival for his role in "Milk," the head of the California festival says.
Singer Jenkins booed at Harrods sale
LONDON, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Protesters who booed Katherine Jenkins at a Harrods sale in London say the opera singer should not be involved with a store selling fur products.
Leno tabs Stern as a forgotten celebrity
NEW YORK, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Radio shock jock Howard Stern's popularity has significantly dwindled among the U.S. general public since going to satellite radio, TV star Jay Leno says.
Holocaust memoir shelved amid dispute
NEW YORK, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- A Holocaust memoir written by author Herman Rosenblat will not be published by Berkley Books due to questions about its veracity, the U.S. publisher says.
Johansson defying young star expectations
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Scarlett Johansson says she enjoys not being a paparazzi target like many of her fellow young Hollywood stars who party all the time.
Mortensen says dark works focus attention
NEW YORK, Dec. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. actor Viggo Mortensen says his involvement in the dark movies, "Good" and "The Road," have helped him focus on the important things in life.
Critics doubt Adam Walsh case closure
HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Critics say a decision to close the investigation of the 1981 slaying of 6-year-old Adam Walsh is fraught with unanswered questions.
Saturday, December 27
Iowa museums aim to protect art works
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Additional steps will be taken to better protect valuable artwork being kept at temporary galleries in Iowa following last summer's floods, an official says.
Carey celebrates Christmas in Colorado
ASPEN, Colo., Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Pop singer Mariah Carey said she was excited to spend her Christmas holiday with her husband, actor Nick Cannon, in Aspen, Colo.
Obama ditches press, goes to sea park
HONOLULU, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. President-elect Barack Obama was able to evade the media glare long enough to take his daughters on an excursion to a Hawaii marine park, observers said.
Call for digital converters intensifying
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. residents needing digital converters for their televisions in preparation for the coming shift from analog technology should act soon, experts say.
Technology behind new Lennon TV ad
LONDON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- The late British singer John Lennon says in a new TV commercial, made possible through modern technology, that the world's poor children need access to laptops.
Hepburn Center may invigorate Conn. town
HARTFORD, Conn., Dec. 27 (UPI) -- A former Wall Street executive says the town of Old Saybrook, Conn., will likely benefit from the creation of the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center.
Cowell shows off toned body in Barbados
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- "America Idol" judge Simon Cowell says he works hard to maintain the toned body he recently showed off during a Barbados vacation.
T-Pain surprised by musical successes
ATLANTA, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Rapper T-Pain says he is surprised by his current success in the U.S. music industry, noting the harsh criticism that greeted his first album.
Beatles fans still waiting on reissues
NEW YORK, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Beatles fans will have to wait for highly anticipated reissues of the disbanded British rock group's music and make due with a commemorative pen, Apple says.
Dad allegedlly shot over talking in movie
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- A South Philadelphia man became so furious over a talkative family's interference with his movie-watching that he shot the father in the arm, police allege.
Mohr seeking Cox name addition
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Actor Jay Mohr says in Los Angeles Superior Court documents he wants to add the surname of his wife, actress Nikki Cox, to his own.
Film critic slammed for reviews
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- "At the Movies" reviewer Ben Lyons puffs up Hollywood films of questionable quality just to make his quotes popular, his peers allege.
Friday, December 26
Police: Irate movie patron shoots talker
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- A Philadelphia man faces charges including attempted murder after allegedly shooting another man who was talking during the new Brad Pitt movie.
George Michael offers free song download
LONDON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- British pop star George Michael says on his Web site he is offering his new single "December Song (I Dreamed of Christmas)" as a free download.
'Valkyrie' actors speak in natural accents
NEW YORK, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. director Bryan Singer says he decided not to have the international cast of "Valkyrie" speak with German accents because it would be distracting.
'Marley' tops U.S. Christmas box office
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- The dog story "Marley & Me" was No. 1 at the Christmas Day box office in the United States, taking in about $14.6 million, BoxOfficeMojo.com reported Friday.
Close, Gervais to be Globes presenters
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Glenn Close, Ricky Gervais and Jake Gyllenhaal have signed up to be presenters at "The 66th annual Golden Globe Awards" in Los Angeles, organizers said.
French region seeking genocide ruling
PARIS, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Officials in the Vendee region of western France say the revolutionary government of 1794 was responsible for genocide committed against area peasants.
Prince William to shave off popular beard
LONDON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Britain's Prince William says he plans to shave off his beard, even though a group of female admirers insist they love his new look, The Sun said.
Dad disputes Lohan's MySpace claims
NEW YORK, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- The father of U.S. actress Lindsay Lohan is denying he recently announced he sired another child after his youngest offspring, Aliana.
Mali to air North American broadcasts
BAMAKO, Mali, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Mali's national broadcasting authority says it plans to start airing satellite television broadcasts covering North America.
'Boys' contestant is Penthouse Pet
NEW YORK, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- One of the contestants trying to win over the mothers, as well as the sons, on the U.S. dating show "Momma's Boys" is Penthouse Pet of the Year Erica Ellyson.
Gambon mourns death of playwright Pinter
LONDON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Irish actor Michael Gambon has called British playwright Harold Pinter, who died of cancer this week, a "god" for actors.
Obama tops 'most admired' poll
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. President-elect Barack Obama is the man Americans admire most in the world, a USA Today/Gallup Poll indicates.
'Fearless' tops U.S. album chart
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Taylor Swift's "Fearless" is No. 1 on the U.S. album chart for a third non-consecutive week, Billboard.com reported.
Police: 'Sopranos' actor found dead
NEW YORK, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- A 47-year-old actor who had a recurring role on TV's "The Sopranos" was found dead in his New York home of an apparent suicide, police said.
'Ladies' No. 1 on U.S. record chart again
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Beyonce's "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" is No. 1 on the U.S. record chart for a third week, Billboard.com reported.
Thursday, December 25
Muggings of violinists could be related
MOSCOW, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- The recent muggings of two Moscow Virtuosi chamber orchestra violinists in the Russian capital during a two-day span could be related, police say.
Skinner tabbed to host profanity special
LONDON, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- British comedian Frank Skinner, known for his routine use of swear words, will host a TV special on profanity, the BBC says.
Electric car's 'Gear' failure clarified
LONDON, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- The manufacturer of the Tesla electric car says the vehicle did not run out of a charge during a race on the British TV series, "Top Gear."
Coldplay offers fans free 'Vida' download
LONDON, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Coldplay says it wanted to offer its fans a Christmas present by offering a free download of a remixed version of the British band's hit, "Viva la Vida."
Young Von Trapps out of 'Music' shadow
MONTPELIER, Vt., Dec. 25 (UPI) -- A 36-year-old member of the von Trapp family made famous by "The Sound of Music" says his generation was distanced from the famous U.S. film.
Police: ID thief targeted Hilfiger, Cuban
NEW YORK, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Authorities said a New York man stole tens of thousands of dollars using credit cards taken out in the names of rich and famous men.
Wednesday, December 24
Disney bails on third 'Narnia' film
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Without explanation, Disney has announced it will not produce or finance the third film in "The Chronicles of Narnia" series.
Velez appearance could mean 'Betty' death
NEW YORK, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Actress Lauren Velez, most recently seen on Showtime's "Dexter," will move over to ABC's "Ugly Betty," producers revealed.
Dave Spade helps police buy guns
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Former Phoenix resident David Spade says he donated $100,000 to the Phoenix Police Department to help them "do their jobs."
TV writer Blinn receives WGA West honor
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Emmy Award-winning writer William Blinn has been honored with the Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television, the Writers Guild of America West said.
MTV ready to find next 'Best Dance Crew'
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Cable TV staple MTV is gearing up for the next go-round of its popular talent competition, "America's Best Dance Crew," producers say.
Ahmadinejad: Jesus would oppose 'bullies'
LONDON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says if Jesus were alive today, he would oppose "bullying ... expansionist powers."
Chicago rockers sign with Primary Wave
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Primary Wave Publishing's Larry Mestel has announced the signings of three original members of the 1970s supergroup, Chicago, to a strategic partnership.
Queen's Christmas message cites family
LONDON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Queen Elizabeth's annual Christmas message will be somber and focus on the importance of family during Britain's hard economic times, sources said Wednesday.
Warner says no 'Dark Night' for China
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Warner Bros. has announced it won't release its Batman blockbuster, "The Dark Knight," in China.
Springsteen announces 'Hits' album
NEW YORK, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- New Jersey rocker Bruce Springsteen says recording a "Greatest Hits" album with his E Street Band has been a longtime goal.
Post and Sun agree to share stories
WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Two prominent newspapers in Baltimore and Washington said they have agreed to share editorial content and photos to trim costs.
Tuesday, December 23
Writers, scholars support China dissident
BEIJING, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- More than 160 people, including three winners of the Nobel Prize for Literature, have asked Chinese President Hu Jintao to free a dissident intellectual.
Springsteen charity gig's surprise guest
RED BANK, N.J., Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Bruce Springsteen made an unbilled appearance at a New Jersey charity event that raised $250,000 for the Parker Family Health Center in Red Bank, N.J.
Cruise vexed by 'Valkyrie' eye patch
NEW YORK, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Hollywood actor Tom Cruise admits the eye patch he wore in his new movie "Valkyrie" caused him some unexpected balance problems on the film set.
Tomei wasn't sure about 'Wrestler' role
NEW YORK, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Marisa Tomei says it took her a little while to decide she wanted the role in "The Wrestler" that director Darren Aronofsky offered her.
Littrell's son has Kawasaki syndrome
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. pop singer and Backstreet Boy Brian Littrell says his 6-year-old son Baylee has been diagnosed with the rare illness Kawasaki syndrome.
Man who killed T.I.'s pal gets 66 years
CINCINNATI, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- An Ohio judge sentenced the man who shot and killed rapper T.I.'s best friend, Philant "Big Phil" Johnson, to 66 years to life in prison.
Jennifer Hudson to sing at MusiCares event
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Jennifer Hudson, the U.S. singer whose mother, brother and nephew were slain this year, is set to perform at the upcoming MusiCares Person of the Year gala.
Dozens evacuated from biggest Ferris wheel
SINGAPORE, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Dozens of passengers trapped for hours on the world's biggest Ferris wheel in Singapore had to be evacuated by being lowered from the device, officials said.
Spencer Pratt cuts short 2nd wedding
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. reality television personality Spencer Pratt stopped his courthouse wedding to Heidi Montag, stating he knew it wasn't her dream ceremony, E! News said.
Obama coins not real deal
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. Treasury officials say coins depicting Presidential-elect Barack Obama are nothing more than trinkets and are not sponsored by the federal government.
Bello to star in new HBO crime series
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Maria Bello is developing and set to star in a new HBO crime series, Variety.com reported Tuesday.
Drunk Lennon tape sells for $30K
LONDON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- A 1973 cassette tape, featuring audio of an intoxicated John Lennon singing "Just Because," has been sold for $30,000 at an auction in Los Angeles.
Johansson's snotty tissue fetches $5,300
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- A tissue U.S. actress Scarlett Johansson blew her nose in has sold for $5,300 on eBay and the proceeds have been donated to charity, "Extra" reported.
'Hallelujah' 1-2 on U.K. Christmas chart
LONDON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Versions of the song "Hallelujah" by different artists have taken the top two spots on England's Christmas record chart this year, the BBC said.
Cop's sister outraged by Brancato verdict
BRONX, N.Y., Dec. 23 (UPI) -- The sister of slain New York Police Officer Daniel Enchautegui says she is disappointed actor Lillo Brancato was acquitted of killing him.
Project Playlist inks deal with Sony BMG
PALO ALTO, Calif., Dec. 23 (UPI) -- The U.S. social network Project Playlist, Inc., has announced an agreement with Sony BMG to provide users direct access to the company's digital music library.
Japan Emperor Akihito celebrates birthday
TOKYO, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Japanese Emperor Akihito Tuesday greeted well-wishers gathered for his 75th birthday celebration at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
Rep says Jackson is in fine health
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Michael Jackson's spokesman says the 50-year-old singer "is in fine health," contrary to a widely circulated report claiming Jackson needs a lung transplant.
Non-profits seen struggling for donations
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Rising unemployment and a sputtering economy are prompting donors to cut back on donations to many Washington non-profit groups, experts say.
|