Totally Theo

Joanne Trattoria

2012-02-01T23:02:00.000+01:00

Lady Gaga's parents are opening a restaurant in New York City today, and of course, the Lady wouldn't let the occasion slip by without some promotion. She tweeted today:

I'm so proud of my parents! Tonight their restaurant opens in NY. Joanne Trattoria. My dad built with his two hands, mommy decorated.

Hope they will do alright!

We are here

2012-02-01T22:59:00.000+01:00

Just a minute ago, Madonna posted this picture of the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, where the Super Bowl 2012 will take place this Sunday, saying:

It's official, we are here.

Can't wait for her halftime performance!

The power of love

2012-02-01T22:43:00.000+01:00

Last Friday, the Canadian Women’s National Soccer Team qualified for the Summer Olympic Games which will be held in London from July 27 to August 12, 2012. The players celebrated their win by singing Celine Dion’s song, "The Power of Love". The team sings it after each win. Congratulations to the team!

Jaws still lives

2012-02-01T22:35:00.005+01:00

For those of you who are (like me) sad the Jaws ride at Universal Studios Orlando has closed forever a month ago, you might be happy to know you can still ride it at Universal Studios Japan. The video above shows the ride as it happens near Tokyo, and although it's, as far as the ride itself goes, completely the same as the ride in Orlando, the Japanese just doesn't really fit in a ride supposed to take place in the New York area of the United States. Also, in some places, you can see the tracks hiding beneath the surface. I'm sure that's not supposed to be visible to the audience.

Still, it's a great ride! And most of all, it just made me want to watch the original Jaws movie again!

Follow me on Twitter!

2012-02-01T22:13:00.000+01:00

In case you're not already doing so, I suggest, if you like reading Totally Theo, you should follow me on Twitter as well! It's mostly in Dutch, so chances are most of you won't really understand what I'm tweeting (not that I'm tweeting about important topics in the first place), but still, a couple of followers more wouldn't hurt me, so click here and start following me!

All the lovers - live in Antwerp

2012-02-01T22:02:00.002+01:00

Filmed live during the best night of my life, enjoy Kylie Minogue singing the final encore of her fabulous Aphrodite Les Folies show, All The Lovers, live at Sportpaleis Antwerpen.

New album

2012-02-01T21:55:00.000+01:00

Alanis Morissette recently gave a small interview during which she confirmed that she is finishing her eight studio album, and she had said she has recorded thirty-one songs. She said that the album will be due out in 2012 in Summer or Spring!

I can't wait for new music by Alanis! It has been way too long!

Mad tea party

2012-02-01T21:29:00.000+01:00

A couple of years ago, back in 2008, after seeing two shows of Madonna's Sticky & Sweet World Tour at the Stade De France in Paris, a couple of friends and I decided to visit Disneyland Paris the day after. We had a great time, and just the other week one of my friends send me this great picture of myself in a teacup, riding the Mad Tea Party.

Charity concert

2012-02-01T21:27:00.000+01:00

On Sunday, February 12, 2012, partners Three Six Zero Group and Roc Nation will stage an unprecedented charity concert featuring international superstars deadmau5, Rihanna, Calvin Harris and Sebastian Ingrosso of Swedish House Mafia at the House Of Blues in Los Angeles. All proceeds from this once-in-a-lifetime concert will benefit the Children’s Orthopaedic Center and The Mark Taper–Johnny Mercer Artists Program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. The all-star line up will also include Chris Lake and Michael Woods. All artists are donating their time for this wonderful cause.

Tickets, priced at $1,000 go on sale today, Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 5:00pm (PST). They may be purchased on-line LiveNation.com or by calling Ticketmaster at 800-653-8000 or at the House Of Blues box office located at 8430 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California.

Children's Hospital Los Angeles has been named the best children’s hospital in California and among the best in the nation for clinical excellence with its selection to the prestigious US News & World Report Honor Roll. Children’s Hospital is home to The Saban Research Institute, one of the largest and most productive pediatric research facilities in the United States. The hospital is also one of America's premier teaching hospitals through its affiliation since 1932 with the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California.

Great news from the USA

2012-02-01T21:24:00.000+01:00

The US federal government will publish regulations next month requiring all religious groups involved in government-assisted housing facilities to accept gay couples and transgender individuals - a change effected in part by including gay couples in the rule’s definition of the word family.

The Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposed a new rule on Thursday that defines family as at least two people living together “regardless of marital status, or actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity,” in addition to the surviving partners of AIDS victims who had previously been housed under HUD’s AIDS housing program.

“HUD’s proposed rule clarifies that families, otherwise eligible for HUD programs, may not be excluded because one or more members of the family may be an LGBT individual, have an LGBT relationship, or be perceived to be such an individual or in such relationship,” stated federal officials in a release accompanying the proposed rule last year.

The rule also specified that borrowers cannot be denied FHA-insured mortgage financing based on their “sexual orientation or gender identity,” and that owners and operators of HUD-assisted housing are disallowed from inquiring about such characteristics.

The ACLU on Saturday celebrated the fact that the new rules will require Christian groups involved in HUD housing to comply with the mores against discrimination based on sexual orientation. Catholic and Christian churches are often involved in building the low-income housing as a ministry, or in distributing section 8 vouchers.

“Of critical importance, the rule will require all organizations that operate HUD-assisted or HUD-insured housing facilities to serve LGBT Americans looking for shelter and housing—including religious organizations,” wrote the ACLU’s Ian Thompson. “As a coalition of more than 30 civil rights organizations (including the ACLU) wrote to HUD last year, once a religious organization chooses to provide housing services or programs with the aid of federal funds and benefits from HUD, it cannot shield itself from traditional safeguards that protect civil rights in the provision of those services.”

Great news!

NRJ Awards

2012-02-01T21:14:00.000+01:00

A huge congratulations to Mika who won an award for International Male Artist of the Year at the NRJ awards this past weekend (28th January).

Mika performed ‘Elle Me Dit’ at the ceremony at Palais Des Festivals on the French Riviera in Cannes, click here to watch it.

And if you want to watch him accept his award, click here.

Those aren’t the only two videos from the awards though! Watch Mika being interviewed about his win by clicking here.

Outstanding contribution

2012-02-01T21:11:00.000+01:00

Last week, the stars got together at London's O2 Arena for the 2012 National Television Awards. Gary Barlow was recognised on the night, taking home the Outstanding Contribution gong.

Presented with the award by Chris Moyles, Gary was honoured for all of his fantastic music and charity work over the last year.

Take a look at the complete list of winners by clicking here.

Super Bowl - setlist

2012-02-01T21:06:00.000+01:00

The setlist for Madonna's Super Bowl halftime show, which will occur this Sunday, has been revealed. Madonna will sing:

Give Me All Your Luvin'
Ray Of Light
Vogue
Holiday

Guest appearances by Nicki Minaj and LMFAO. Check the picture above for a sneak peek at how the stage will look.

Classic car

2012-02-01T20:59:00.000+01:00

Tori Amos was Brooke Baldwin’s guest for the #musicmonday feature of today’s CNN Newsroom. Taken from an interview done last December during the Night of Hunters tour, the spot features Tori discussing the energy she derives from performing live and accepting her age, characterizing herself as a “classic car”.

Check out the interview above!

The voices speak

2012-02-01T20:57:00.000+01:00

Cee Lo Green, Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera, and Blake Shelton take the cover of Rolling Stone‘s latest issue. Here’s what the coaches from The Voice had to share:

Christina, on being the only female coach: “You have to be a pretty strong girl to stay up in the mix with the guys. It’s a lot. It’s a crazy locker-room kind of situation.”

Adam, on Cee Lo’s style: “He can wear white socks with sandals and still have it be fucking cool. If I did that, Blake would make fun of me.”

Katy Perry goes 3D

2012-02-01T20:55:00.000+01:00

Katy Perry may be following in the footsteps of Justin Bieber and scoring a documentary-style 3D film, according to THR.

“Dealmaking is still in the early stages, and no director is officially on board yet. But both sides are eager to make the details work, and insiders say it’s just a matter of working out the logistics,” a source tells the magazine.

Katy‘s team is in talks with Paramount, the same studio which released Justin Bieber: Never Say Never, which holds the domestic box office record for a concert film with $73 million.

Time of grief

2012-02-01T20:53:00.000+01:00

Backstreet Boy Nick Carter has opened up about the death of his younger sister, Leslie.
“Nick Carter is thankful to the many people and the fans who have shared their wishes and prayers during this tragic time. We want to let the fans know the tour will go on as promised,” a rep for the 32-year-old musician told JustJared.com. “Performing is cathartic to me and I am dedicating the rest of my tour to my sister since she loved to watch me perform,” Nick said. “We ask the press to respect Nick’s privacy during his time of grief,” the statement concluded.

Leslie passed away at the age of 25.

10x Current singles

2012-02-01T20:51:00.000+01:00

A new month has started, which makes it the right moment for my monthly top ten list of current singles. Here we go:

1) Talk That Talk - Rihanna feat. Jay-Z
2) Ode To The Bouncer - Studio Killers
3) Somebody That I Used To Know - Gotye
4) Skinny Love - Birdy
5) Hangover - Taio Cruz feat. Flo Rida
6) Sexy And I Know It - LMFAO
7) Video Games - Lana Del Rey
8) Turning Tables - Adele
9) Titanium - David Guetta feat. Sia
10) Love On Top - Beyonce

What are yours?

Physical chemistry

2012-02-01T20:46:00.000+01:00

Jennifer Lopez beams as she leaves a restaurant with her toyboy Casper Smart. Actress J-Lo, 42, was initially cagey about her relationship with dancer Casper – who is 18 years her junior – but they've been regularly stepping out as an item in recent weeks.

Casper, of Anaheim, California, has been portrayed as a ladies' man who has dated a string of beautiful women and dances topless in front of screaming female fans at a Hollywood club.

One source said: "J-Lo obviously found his charms hard to resist. With an 18-year age difference, I doubt they have much in common. But who needs conversation when you have that physical chemistry."

H&M collection

2012-02-01T20:44:00.000+01:00

David Beckham is due to unveil his hotly-anticipated bodywear collection for H&M today. The affordable range of men's undies will go on sale to the public tomorrow.

And if the clothes weren't enough to get people through the door, David has sexed up the store with topless golden statues of himself. What do you think, will they sell?

New neighbours

2012-02-01T20:42:00.000+01:00

Lady Gaga has bought a house in the posh Fitzrovia area of the West End in London. If she needs to borrow some milk for her china teacup, neighbours include Guy Ritchie.

A source said: "The property is in a luxurious development which is still being built. It's some place. She had been staying in The Lanesborough hotel every time she visited London but because she is over so much she has decided to go for it and invest."

Skyfall

2012-02-01T20:41:00.000+01:00

Check out the very first official publicity still from the upcoming 23d James Bond movie Skyfall. The movie, which was shot on a budget a lot smaller than previous 007 films, will premiere in October.

Hopefully this will be the last ever Bond movie starring Daniel Craig. As I've said about the first two movies he did, Casino Royale and Quantum Of Solace, he looks more like the villain than the hero.

Nightlife exchange

2012-02-01T20:38:00.000+01:00

The second chapter of the ongoing Madonna and Smirnoff partnership begins this Sunday, February 5 with the appearance of Lil Buck, the winner of the Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project Dance Competition, as he joins The Material Girl's dance ensemble at the Bridgestone Super Bowl Halftime Show, the company announced today.

For Smirnoff and its parent company Diageo this is the first of several ongoing high profile activities between the world's No. 1 artist and the world's No. 1 vodka.

The Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project - launched in 2010 --searched for the world's best new dancer among tens of thousands of entries through a global dance competition. The final dance-off competition took place at the historic Roseland Ballroom in New York City where Madonna and her choreographers selected Memphis native Lil Buck as the winner from 10 global finalists. Lil Buck's prize included an opportunity to join Madonna's dance crew.

"Joining Madonna's dance crew has been a dream come true. I have already learnt so much and cannot thank Smirnoff enough for this life-changing opportunity," commented Lil Buck.

Motherhood

2012-02-01T20:36:00.000+01:00

Tonight on Dutch television: Motherhood, starring Uma Thurman, Minnie Driver and Anthony Edwards.

Oh, be quiet

2012-01-31T19:19:00.000+01:00

Jennifer Lopez appeared on the Late Show With David Letterman, and talked a bit about her ex husband Marc Anthony:

“You know, it’s fun because we know each other so well, but it has its moments. The same things that…didn’t really work sometimes come up. You’re talking and you don’t agree on something and you’re like ‘oh, be quiet!’…you’ll see it on the show a little bit!”

Tonight show

2012-01-31T19:17:00.000+01:00

Madonna appeared on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno held at the NBC Studios on Monday in Burbank, California.

Click here to watch a clip from the interview.

In love to the fullest

2012-01-31T19:15:00.000+01:00

Selena Gomez is on the cover of the March 2012 issue of Cosmopolitan. Inside the magazine, the Disney singer talks about her 'relationship' with Justin Bieber:

“I’m just like every 19-year-old girl. If you’re in love, you’re in love to the fullest, and you just want to go to the movies, hang out, and be as normal as possible. I’m fortunate that I’ve found someone who has that philosophy.”

Thank you, Starbucks

2012-01-31T19:12:00.000+01:00

Starbucks has officially backed gay marriage! In a January 24 letter to U.S. partners, Kalen Holmes, Starbucks executive vice president, expresses support for the gay marriage legislation in Washington State. The “important legislation,” says Holmes “is core to who we are and what we value as a company.”

The letter, which boasts of the company’s LGBT activism begins, “Starbucks is proud to join other leading Northwest employers in support of Washington State legislation recognizing marriage equality for same-sex couples.” The letter concludes: “We look forward to seeing this legislation enacted into law.”

Thank you, Starbucks!

Awards comeback

2012-01-31T19:08:00.000+01:00

Adele has confirmed she will make her live comeback at the Grammys next month! Adele's voice has not been heard on stage since she underwent surgery to cure a condition that threatened her vocal cords last November, but after a successful recovery period, the star has revealed she "can't wait" to perform at the awards ceremony. She is also due to perform at the Brit Awards at the O2 Arena in London a week later.
Adele told fans on Twitter: "Ima be, Ima be singing at the Grammys. It's been so long I started to forget I was a singer! I can't wait, speak soon xx."

Party all night

2012-01-31T19:05:00.000+01:00

Rihanna, as usual, looked like a total slut while visiting Greystone Manor nightclub in Los Angeles. It looks like since the LOUD Tour is over with (and come to think about it, during the tour as well), all Rihanna ever does is go out partying. Doesn't she have a single (Talk That Talk) to promote?

On the other hand, Rihanna records seem to be selling themselves, so she probably doesn't even need to go through the effort.

Art collections

2012-01-31T19:03:00.000+01:00

Robbie Williams Mark Owen are pumping some of their profits from the Progress Live 2011 Tour into art.

Mark's just splashed out £20k on a painting by an edgy graffiti artist to mark his 40th birthday. And Rob is paying a sculptor to make a life-size statue of wife Ayda Field for his back yard in LA.

A source said: "Mark bought a painting by a London street artist called Bambi. It's of an 80-year-old woman called Mrs Welsh who is a character in a trendy part of London. Mark is really into urban art and has some other pieces from top UK talent. He's become a serious collector."

Better than today - live in Antwerp

2012-01-31T19:01:00.000+01:00

Check out this cool video of Kylie Minogue performing Better Than Today, live during her amazing Aphrodite Les Folies Tour at Sportpaleis Antwerpen. I was in the audience during this show (as well as two days earlier at the Heineken Music Hall in Amsterdam) and I can truly say it was the best show I've ever seen in my life.

MDNA - cover

2012-01-31T18:59:00.000+01:00

Madonna has revealed the cover for her upcoming new album MDNA today, Check it out above.

Ice princess

2012-01-31T18:57:00.002+01:00

Tonight on Dutch television: Ice Princess, starring Michelle Trachtenberg, Kim Cattrall and Joan Cusack.

Dance classes

2012-01-30T21:35:00.000+01:00

Mister hottie Jason Beitel posted a couple of new hot pictures of himself teaching dance classes on his Facebook account. Enjoy!

New dates

2012-01-30T21:25:00.000+01:00

George Michael has told fans that he will most likely reschedule his cancelled 2011 Symphonica Tour dates for September of this year.

George had to pull a run of UK shows after succumbing to a life-threatening bout of pneumonia at the end of last year. He has now taken to Twitter to explain that the tour will now probably take place this autumn and that the shows may now include new songs.

When asked about when the gigs would be taking place, he wrote: "realistically I can't see my vocal cords being being ready till the summer, but then I have to think about people losing out if they are on their summer hols. So September seems the most likely. Sorry about that everyone. Rest assured I will use the time wisely. As in... working on improving the show, mixing the live tracks, finishing brand new tracks!"

New and improved

2012-01-30T21:19:00.000+01:00

From the new and improved Kylie.com:

Kylie is celebrating 25 years in music this year and we thought we’d take the opportunity to showcase her magnificent career with a brand new and sparkly kylie.com.

We’ve added a new section called Kylie Fashion which will showcase some of Kylie’s greatest costumes and fashion from over the years for you to enjoy.

If you fancy a trip down memory lane, we have a fabulous timeline for you to scroll through packed full of videos, photos and releases.

We hope you love it!

Xx Team Kylie

Oh yes, we do love it!

Greatest women in music

2012-01-30T21:17:00.002+01:00

According to a press release from VH1, Tori Amos will be one of several industry experts, pop culture critics and music artists offering commentary during VH1’s “100 Greatest Women in Music,” a 5-night special special premiering during the week of February 13th. The series will numerate the top hundred women artists who have made their a mark on the music industry over the past twenty years.

Check it out starting Monday, February 13th at 10:00 PM ET/9:00 PM CT. The series concludes on Friday, February 17th.

Commitment to diversity

2012-01-30T21:15:00.000+01:00

A couple of weeks ago hate group the American Family Association (AFA) reported that The Home Depot appeared to be pulling back its support to gay rights activists. Fortunately, and as usual, they spoke too soon. Immediately after the AFA released their findings, Home Depot said it will continue to support gay rights activities. Home Depot issued this email statement to the AFA:

"We have never changed our commitment to diversity and inclusion of all people, and we have no intention of doing so. Nor have we changed our apron policy or the guidelines for our charitable giving."

Thank you, Home Depot! Of course, this won't stop the AFA from claiming victory, just as they did after the failed boycotts of The Walt Disney Company, Ford, and McDonalds, to name just a few. Still, it's great to hear their influence means absolutely nothing!

Tanking tour

2012-01-30T21:11:00.000+01:00

As I've noticed before, the NKOTBSB Tour, which is the co-headlining tour starring the Backstreet Boys and the New Kids On The Block, isn't selling so well in the Netherlands. Their show at Ahoy Rotterdam, on May 1st, has been on sale for quite a couple of months now, and still tickets are available in every single category. In fact, if you head over to Eventim, the official ticketseller for this show, you will notice they have displayed a message stating that at the request of the promoter, the seating chart has actually been turned off.

This probably means the show is selling so badly they don't want us to see just exactly how many tickets are still left. I wouldn't be surprised if this show were to be scaled down to the Heineken Music Hall in Amsterdam, or cancelled altogether.

It's a far cry from Take That's Progress Live 2011 Tour, which sold out the entire Amsterdam ArenA.

Grisham vs. King

2012-01-30T21:03:00.000+01:00

Time for a new poll! This week, I'll let you choose between my two favorite writers, John Grisham and Stephen king. personally I like John Grisham best, but now it's up to you to decide!

Voting's on!

Teaser video

2012-01-30T21:01:00.000+01:00

Madonna has posted a short teaser video to promote her upcoming single Give Me All Your Luvin', taken from her next album MDNA. The full video will premiere on American Idol on Thursday, with a worldwide release on YouTube the next day, Friday February 3.

Mardi Gras

2012-01-30T20:58:00.000+01:00

It was Kylie Minogue’s third and final surprise for this month that got the Australians excited! Kylie has confirmed that she will be heading home to join with Sydney’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex community at the Sydney Mardi Gras Parade.

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras will honour Kylie during the Parade with a spectacular K25 float that pays homage to the artist’s outstanding contribution to the music industry and support of the LGBTQI community. SGLMG’s CEO Michael Rolik says Minogue’s RSVP to Sydney Mardi Gras 14 years after her last performance at the Mardi Gras party in 1998 will go down as a great moment in the organisation’s history.

NSW Minister for Tourism, Major Events and The Arts, George Souris said “The presence of Kylie Minogue is sure to make this the biggest and best Sydney Mardi Gras ever,” he said.

And Kylie is pretty excited herself saying ‘“I simply cannot wait, and it’s going to be a beautiful way to celebrate 25 years of this relationship.”

The paperboy

2012-01-30T20:57:00.000+01:00

Zac Efron was spotted shooting some reshoots on the set of his upcoming new movie The Paperboy in Los Angeles. The plaid shirt must be part of Zac‘s costume for the film, because he was spotted the day before carrying the plaid button-down on set, as well as wearing the same beanie.

The film is set to be released sometime this year.

Clean water

2012-01-30T20:55:00.000+01:00

Adam Lambert turned 30 yesterday on January 29

“Today is my birthday, and for my 30th I’d like you all to help me change the world: http://www.charitywater.org/adamlambert/” Adam tweeted, along with a link to a donation page for a charity called charity:water.

“Together, I bet we can raise over $1 million and bring thousands more people clean water.” Adam wrote. Donate to this wonderful cause today and help bring clean water to those who need it!

I forgive you

2012-01-30T20:53:00.000+01:00

Kelly Clarkson has recently announced that “I Forgive You” will be her next single! The 29-year-old singer confirmed the choice during her Stronger Tour stop at Cambria County War Memorial Arena on Saturday in Johnstown, Penn.

Earlier in the day, Kelly wrote on her Twitter “Bought some awesome vinyl records, had an amazing popsicle, and enjoying the fact that it’s warmer here in North Carolina!”

Friends for years

2012-01-30T20:52:00.000+01:00

Jennifer Lopez chatted with Matt Lauer about her new show Q’Viva! The Chosen on Today. Jennifer also chatted about working with her ex, Marc Anthony, on the show"

“Marc and I were friends before we got married. We were friends for years. And we always loved each other, and we always worked together…. Obviously, we have children together so it’s not like he’s not going to be in my life, he’s always going to be in my life,” Jennifer said.

Three attacks

2012-01-30T20:51:00.000+01:00

Australia has seen its third shark attack in weeks, its second in two days. David Pickering, injured off the northwest coast, said he beat off a tiger shark with his left arm Thursday when it had grabbed his right one.

Three attacks in one country in one week... scary!

Best-selling songs

2012-01-30T20:49:00.000+01:00

And speaking of Lady Gaga, her smash hit "Born This Way" is among the top five best-selling songs of 2011 with 8.2 million copies, according to the latest IFPI (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) report. Check out the full list below:

Bruno Mars - Just The Way You Are (12.5 million)
Bruno Mars - Grenade (10.2 million)
LMFAO - Party Rock Anthem (9.7 million)
Jennifer Lopez - On the Floor (8.4 million)
Adele - Rolling in the Deep (8.2 million)
Lady Gaga - Born This Way (8.2 million)
Pitbull ft. Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer - Give me Everything (8.2 million)
Black Eyed Peas - The Time (Dirty Bit) (7.3 million)
Maroon 5 - Moves Like Jagger (7.0 million)
Bruno Mars - The Lazy Song (6.5 million)

Gold disk awards

2012-01-30T20:47:00.000+01:00

Lady Gaga won four prizes at this year's Japanese Gold Disk Awards, including Best Western Artist, Album and Song. Gaga´s Born This Way was also awarded for reaching triple platinum certification and becoming the top-selling western album of the year.

Congratulations, and well deserved!

Birthday message

2012-01-30T20:45:00.000+01:00

P!nk has recorded a special birthday message for Ellen DeGeneres, also showing off her baby Willow and husband Carey. Lovely!

A spicey reunion

2012-01-30T20:43:00.000+01:00

The Spice Girls are due to reform for a special gig at Buckingham Palace on June 4 in front of the Royal Family. Scary Spice Mel B revealed the plans during an interview on Australian TV — when she was asked if the Spices will reform for the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony.

Mel smiled and replied: "Ooh, I think the Queen's Jubilee concert is the event I'd be looking at more closely for that to happen."

After realising her error, the outspoken star quickly changed the subject. But after the show, she appeared to confirm to studio workers that she had not made a mistake.

Can´t wait!

All is well

2012-01-30T20:41:00.000+01:00

Take That star Mark Owen has come a long way since confessing to ten affairs and an alcohol problem in 2010. Mark was seen kissing his supportive wife Emma Ferguson as the couple enjoyed a London stroll on his 40th birthday.

Mark's clearly got his domestic life back on track after he spiralled out of control on booze and revealed he had bedded ten different women while he was with Emma. In a bid to beat his demons, the singer checked himself into rehab — and the move seems to have paid off.

He and blonde Emma, 35, were all smiles as they basked in each other's company last week, stopping momentarily to lock lips.

K25: Finer Feelings

2012-01-30T20:39:00.000+01:00

Kylie Minogue has started off the K25 festivities by releasing this absolutely stunning new orchestral version of her 1992 song Finer Feelings. Recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London, this wonderful song is just the start of what's to come!

Give me all your luvin'- cover

2012-01-30T20:37:00.001+01:00

The cover for Madonna's upcoming single Give Me All Your Luvin', which will be released on Friday February 3, has been released. Check out the wonders f photoshop and botox above!

U.S. Marshals

2012-01-30T20:36:00.000+01:00

Tonight on Dutch television: U.S. Marshals, starring Tommy Lee Jones, Wesley Snipes and Robert Downey jr.

Conservative visionary

2012-01-19T23:12:00.000+01:00

Governor Rick Perry has decided to suspend his GOP presidential bid and endorse former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, calling him a "conservative visionary."
In a news conference in South Carolina this morning, Perry announced his decision. "As I've contemplated the future of this campaign, I have come to the conclusion that there is no viable path forward for me in the 2012 campaign," he stated. "Therefore today I am suspending my campaign and endorsing Newt Gingrich for president of the United States."

Perry has been trailing in all the recent South Carolina polls and finished well back in both the Iowa Caucuses and the New Hampshire primary. He had faced calls to drop out of the race in recent days as polls show him languishing while Gingrich gains steam.

More Twilight

2012-01-19T23:08:00.000+01:00

Whispers throughout Hollywood say the Twilight saga will very likely continue after the Breaking Dawn movies have finished storming the box office. Now that the franchise has moved to Lionsgate, the president of the company says he would love to see it continue:

It's hard for me to imagine a movie that does $700 million-plus doesn't have ongoing value. It's an amazing franchise that they have done a great job of maintaining with absolutely no deterioration. So the simple answer is 'Boy I hope so.'

More Twilight movies! Great idea!

Restraining order

2012-01-19T23:03:00.000+01:00

Richard Franco, the creep who was found scaling the wall around Halle Berry's house, has been sentenced to 386 days in jail, five years probation, and one year in counseling. Not only that but Halle got the three year restraining order extended to ten years!

Congratulations!

Tempest in a teapot

2012-01-19T23:00:00.000+01:00

Elton John's husband, David Furnish, has issued an apology to Madonna. David posted an apology on his Facebook page to Madge. He writes:

Wow! What a tempest in a teapot. My comments regarding The Golden Globes have been blown way out of proportion. My passion for our film "Gnomeo & Juliet" and belief in Elton's song really got my emotional juices going. But I must say for the record that I do believe Madonna is a great artist, and that Elton and I wish her all the best for next week's premiere of the film "W.E."

Open for business

2012-01-19T22:57:00.000+01:00

US President Barack Obama's visit today to Walt Disney World is as much an appeal to Brazilians and their dollars as it is Florida voters and their jobs. But it was a brief one, highlighted by a speech that lasted just 13 minutes.

As expected, Obama announced he intends to expand the U.S. State Department's Global Entry Program for trusted international visitors; expand and accelerate visa application processing for such countries as Brazil, India and China; and attempt to add more countries to the Visa Waiver Program that allows foreigners from 36 countries to skip the visa process.

The moves all are designed to make it easier for international travelers to visit the United States. In Florida and at Disney World, the issue focuses mostly on Brazilian travelers, whose visa applications are backlogged. Florida and Disney World are among the favorite destinations of free-spending Brazilians, who spend an average of $5,000 each per visit.

"We've got the best product to sell. I mean look at where we are," Obama declared, gesturing to Cinderella's Castle behind him.

"People want to come here," he said. "So this is what it's all about – telling the world that America is open for business," he added.

Obama assured the crowd that the United States would continue to "protect our borders" even as it fosters a more welcoming environment for tourists.

Obama began his brief speech at about 12:40, starting with a recognition of Mickey Mouse. "It's always nice to meet someone who has bigger ears than me," he said.

The same, only less

2012-01-19T22:52:00.000+01:00

From the Liz Smith column:

“IT’S REDUCTIVE.”
Those two words, uttered by Madonna, in response to ABC-TV’s Cynthia McFadden’s question about a Lady Gaga song, has “gone viral,” as they say. Even better, when McFadden, who certainly knows what the word means, asked Madonna to define it, M coyly said, “Look it up!”

Apparently, a lot of people have. Now, I keep hearing the word, generally accompanied with a laugh and a reference to the pop icon. Madonna has taught us much over the years, now she’s revived a word rarely used. (Well, I’ve always said if Madonna hadn’t gone into music, she would have stayed in Michigan and become Miss Ciccone, the stern English teacher.)

It was this benign answer about Gaga that became part of the Elton John/ David Furnish’s attack on Madonna, after she won a Golden Globe for best original song on Sunday night. The song is titled “Masterpiece” from her coming film, “W.E.” (Elton’s effort was “Hello, Hello” from the flop animated movie “Gnomeo and Juliet.”) Aside from ripping Madonna’s song, the pair declared - on Twitter and Facebook - that Madonna’s “attack” on Gaga “shows how desperate she is.”

Goodness, I didn’t get that at all. Madonna has no inclination to trash Gaga. But she is certainly within her rights to imply, gently, that Lady G. has appropriated some aspects of her image, sound and message. Music critics were the first, in fact, to point out the similarities between Gaga’s “Born This Way” and M’s “Express Yourself.”

Elton John, who has been a star since 1970, feels he has earned the right to be perennially cranky and opinionated. Fine. And he does wonderful charity work. But I think Madonna, who has been a star since 1983, has earned the right to answer a question honestly, from her point of view. Or to accept an award, if she wins one. Elton has had a bee in his bonnet about Madonna for years. At various times he has criticized her singing, dancing, her right to be a star, even. She has rarely responded.

In this case, however, it is Elton who appears to be “desperate.” Back in the day, Madonna could be ungracious and careless in her remarks, but I never recall her attacking another performer in this manner, or publicly declaring she should have won an award instead of somebody else. (Perhaps she learned her lesson when, in the midst of a wave of positive reviews and publicity for “Evita” - and a Golden Globe win - she said she thought she deserved to be nominated for an Oscar, too. The Academy was not amused.)

The truth is, most of the public has never heard either Elton or Madonna’s song. Why carry on so?
Oh, “reductive?” It means something is the same, only less.

Love the way you lie - live in Arnhem

2012-01-19T22:45:00.002+01:00

Please enjoy Rihanna singing Love The Way You Lie, during her LOUD Tour at Gelredome Stdium in Arnhem, the Netherlands, with me in the audience.

The origin of love

2012-01-19T22:41:00.000+01:00

Great news, Mika fans! The singer himself has revelaed the fact that his new and third album The Origin Of Love will be released in March! That's only about a month and a half from now!

I'm really looking forward to this album, as I absolutely love Mika's music. Hopefully a tour will be announced shortly after the album release!

The tour is over

2012-01-19T22:37:00.000+01:00

Now that Tori Amos has finished up her fantastic Night Of Hunters Tour, her unofficial fansite Undented has updated its tour page, containing details of every show of the tour, including setlists, reviews, videos and photo's. It's a great resource for Tori Amos fans, so check it out by clicking here.

New poll

2012-01-19T22:33:00.000+01:00

With New Year's Eve just behind us, and Valentine's Day coming up, for my latest poll, let me, and other readers know which movie you preferred!

Voting's on!

Gaga plus

2012-01-19T22:29:00.000+01:00

Lady Gaga has joined Google's social network. Add her brand new Google+ profile to your circles by visiting http://ongpl.us/ladygaga and share the page with your friends to stay up to date on all things Gaga.

Technical problems

2012-01-19T22:28:00.000+01:00

Some of you may be experiencing technical difficulties when adding comments or posting messages on the official Celine Dion Forum. The people who run her website have informed us they working on this and hope to have everything back in order shortly. They would like to say: Thank you for your patience and continued support.

No hard feelings

2012-01-19T22:25:00.000+01:00

No hard feelings between Avril Lavigne and Brody Jenner! The two, who recently split, each used their Twitter pages to dispel any rumors the separation might not have been amicable.

“It really upsets me to read all the FALSE!! stories. Avril has always been there for me and is the closest person to my heart. I love her,” Brody tweeted.

Avril, meanwhile, wrote a simple, “luv u 2!!! @BrodyJenner.”

Things happen

2012-01-19T22:24:00.000+01:00

Adam Lambert made an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show to promote his new single, “Better Than I Know Myself,” on Thursday.

During his appearance on the show, Adam talked about his recent fight with boyfriend Sauli Koskinen that led to their arrest in Finland late last year.

“You know, relationships are work and I’m so lucky to have fallen in love with a great partner. Everybody has their ups and downs, things happen. When you add alcohol to a situation, things can get out of control and some people can get upset and emotional. What happened was, we had too much to drink. We screwed up. There were no injuries, no violence. It was more of childish, foolish, messiness. I was a little irresponsible and I think what I learned from the experience was that I owe it to myself, to my loved ones, and to my fans to be a little more adult and pull it together. New Year’s resolution was like ‘OK, we’re cleaning up the act, and we’re juicing, and exercising,’ and I feel amazing.”

Princess of China

2012-01-19T22:21:00.000+01:00

It was just announced that Rihanna will take the stage at the 2012 Grammy Awards with Coldplay, presumably to perform their song “Princess of China”!

Rihanna is nominated for Album Of The Year and Best Pop Vocal Album for Loud, as well as Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for her songs “What’s My Name?” featuring Drake and “All Of The Lights” featuring Kanye West, Kid Cudi, and Fergie
.
Coldplay is nominated for three Grammys, including Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “Paradise,” and Best Rock Song and Best Rock Performance for “Every Teardop Is A Waterfall.”

New year's eve

2012-01-19T22:16:00.002+01:00

Last week I finally saw the star-studded movie New Year's Eve, and loved it. If you haven't seen it yet, check out the trailer above and run to the nearest cinema!

All but finished

2012-01-19T22:14:00.000+01:00

Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis are "all but officially finished", it was claimed last night. The Pirates of the Caribbean actor, 48, has two kids with the 39-year-old French singer but the pair have never married.

They are said to be living apart and haven't gone to a premiere together for more than a year.
U.S. celebrity magazine People has claimed that the couple — who have been together for 14 years — are living largely separate lives.

"According to multiple sources they are all but officially finished," the magazine said.

Pregnant again

2012-01-19T22:12:00.000+01:00

Angelina Jolie is pregnant again, according to reports. Angie and Brad Pitt, who have recently dropped hints that they would like another baby, are said to be expecting a seventh addition to their brood. A report in US magazine OK! says that Angelina is thrilled.
A source told the magazine: "Angelina is really savouring every moment. She's having a tough time with morning sickness but says it's all worth it."

Working out

2012-01-19T22:10:00.000+01:00

Rihanna tweeted a picture of herself working out in the gym, despite being on holiday, but she didn't feel the need to change out of her swimwear before hopping on the cross trainer.
The snap was the first in a series of bikini shots she posted on Twitter from her break in Hawaii, after finishing almost a year of LOUD shows.

Another attack

2012-01-19T22:08:00.000+01:00

A tour guide has been mauled by a shark while snorkelling at Coral Bay, about 150 kilometres south of Exmouth in WA. It is believed a three-metre tiger shark attacked the 26-year-old man on Thursday afternoon.

Police say the man's injuries are not life-threatening but it is believed he has sustained severe lacerations to his right forearm. The man was flown to Royal Perth Hospital for treatment and is in a stable condition. The Fisheries Department says the beach is closed following the attack. Graham Murphy has run underwater tours in Coral Bay for more than a decade and says the attack is an isolated incident.

"I think it's a big shock to everyone in the area, I mean I've been in Coral Bay for some 14 years, snorkelling regularly each day and never had an issue with sharks of any type. I think it was a complete fluke, a one off. You see sharks regularly when you are snorkelling in the north-west. It's not something I am concerned about when I am out there snorkelling and I dont think any of the tour guides, it doesn't cross their mind because we see sharks so regularly in the water and it's not something we are concerned about."

The attack comes a day after a shark attack south of Newcastle at Redhead Beach left surfer Glen Folkard with serious injuries to his upper leg and torso. Newcastle's beaches have reopened after the attack by what is believed to be a bull shark.

1 million... and counting

2012-01-18T22:02:00.000+01:00

Great news! This evening, the wonderful Kylie Minogue crossed the magical line of 1 million followers on her Twitter account. Congratulations to Kylie and, if you don't already do so, make sure to follow her by clicking here!

10x Current singles

2012-01-18T22:01:00.000+01:00

A bit late, but still... time for my monthtly list of top ten current singles. Here we go!

1) Ode To The Bouncer - Studio Killers
2) You Da One - Rihanna
3) The One That Got Away - Katy Perry
4) Skinny Love - Birdy
5) Young, Wild and Free - Snoop Dogg
6) Hangover - Taio Cruz
7) Turning Tables - Adele
8) She Doesn't Mind - Sean Paul
9) Feel So Close - Calvin Harris
10) I Like It Like That - Hot Chelle Rae

What are yours?

Play without pain

2012-01-18T21:38:00.000+01:00

On January 15, Celine Dion participated in the “Play Without Pain Children’s Sickle Cell Benefit” organized by Caesars Entertainment, AEG Live and Children’s Hospital Boston. The benefit, which aimed to raise awareness and funds for research on treatments for sickle cell anemia, raised more than 1 million dollars. Celine donated proceeds from her evening’s show at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. You can now view photos of this generous event in the photos section of Celine's official website.

Click here to watch!

Talk that talk

2012-01-18T21:36:00.000+01:00

And speaking about Rihanna, it has officially been announced that the next single taken from Talk That Talk, will be the title song (you guessed it) Talk That Talk. Although I like the song, I would have preferred she would have released Farewell, Where Have You Been or We All Want Love. Hopefully one of these songs will get a single release eventually, especially Farewell, as it is my favorite Rihanna song not just from this album, but overall.

You da one

2012-01-18T21:30:00.000+01:00

Check out the official video for Rihanna's latest single You Da One, taken from her smash hit album Talk That Talk.

Hate groups

2012-01-18T21:26:00.000+01:00

A group of black pastors is protesting at the Southern Poverty Law Center in Alabama because they object to the Center's rightful designation of certain Christian organizations as hate groups. The protest is led by Peter LaBarbera of hate group Americans for Truth About Homosexuality, whose organization is one of several that have been designated a hate group by the SPLC. One of the demonstrators is Dr. Patrick Wooden, senior pastor of Upper Room Church of God in Christ in Raleigh, North Carolina.

"And we're here as African-Americans, as black preachers," he says. "I have ministers with me from Delaware, Washington, DC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Raleigh, North Carolina, and Elizabeth City, North Carolina. We don't want this group of people to now say to African-Americans Well, it's like being black -- and we stand idly by and African-Americans not hear from the ministers who have a different point of view," says the pastor.

Wooden believes the SPLC's labeling of groups like his own that oppose gay rights as hate groups is seriously damaging the SPLC's credibility. I'm sure he does, but that doesn't make him any less of a hater.

The appeal

2012-01-18T21:23:00.001+01:00

Today, I finished reading my 12th John Grisham novel The Appeal (although I've read it in Dutch, called De Aanklacht). Loved it! I think it's amazing how every book Grisham has ever written continues to be so great.

On to the next one, which I will pick up at a store tomorrow!

X2

2012-01-18T21:20:00.002+01:00

This has got to be the most extreme rollercoaster in the world: X2, located at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California.

Although it looks absolutely terrifying, I would LOVE to ride it one day!

On the cover of a magazine

2012-01-18T21:18:00.000+01:00

Taylor Swift is looking gorgeous on the cover of the February issue of Vogue Magazine. Aside from doing the cover, inside the magazine is also an interview with Taylor, and a brand new photoshoot with famed photographer Mario Testino.

Twilight party

2012-01-18T21:15:00.000+01:00

US discount chain Target is having a Twilight party!

Nearly 500 stores across the country will be extending their store hours to host a release event for the flick, which is available on February 11th.Beginning at 11PM on Friday, February 10, fans will be shown an exclusive, world-premiere scene from the fifth and final film. Then, at midnight, fans can purchase the Target exclusive, Limited-Collector’s Edition DVD, which includes an authentic prop flower from the weddingscene beautifully encased in an acrylic keepsake.

Great dynamic

2012-01-18T21:13:00.000+01:00

Neil Patrick Harris and longtime love David Burtka are on the cover of Out Magazine’s February 2012 issue. Here are some quotes from the interview:

Neil, on what attracts him to David: “There’s something kinetic about him and his being. He’s classically sexy, yet he’s very much a boy in his energy. It’s a great dynamic.”

Neil, on the relationship not being perfect: “I don’t want to paint our relationship like we met and it’s been happy family fantastic-ness ever since. What defines a relationship is the work that’s involved to maintain it, and it’s constantly changing. Sometimes I’m deeply in love with David and head-over-heels, and sometimes I question whether it’s going to work out and is meant to be. It’s like a business relationship, as well as a personal one; we have a business together and that’s maintaining our love for one another.”

David, on their relationship: “We have a really great recipe for a wonderful relationship, but we don’t want to be the poster boys for gay relationships. We’re not trying to pretend that we are perfect. We’re just trying — in a good, positive, loving way — to live our lives.”

Answer with a smile

2012-01-18T21:10:00.000+01:00

Check out my super cool new Kylie Minogue iPhone background. From now on, I will always answer my phone with a smile!

Masterpiece

2012-01-18T21:09:00.000+01:00

Julie Frost may not be a household name, but she's one of the songwriters behind Madonna's Golden Globe best original song win. Frost, a singer-songwriter who resides in Southern California, stood beside the Queen of Pop as she accepted the award for "Masterpiece." The award-winning song plays during the ends credits of Madonna's directional debut, "W.E.," and will also appear on the pop star's upcoming studio album.

"Being acknowledged by the Hollywood Foreign Press amongst a room full of so many people I admire and accepting the award next to Madonna, was such an honor," Frost, who has co-written songs for Beyonce, the Black Eyed Peas and Pitbull, told CBSNews.com.

Frost added, "As Adam Levine and Jimmy Fallon announced the award for best original song, I thought, no matter what happens I'm proud of our song and to be included in the same category as so many of my musical heroes."

"Masterpiece," which was written by Madonna, Frost and songwriter-producer Jimmy Harry, beat out the four other nominees, including Elton John's "Hello Hello" from "Gnomeo & Juliet" and Mary J. Blige's "The Living Proof" from "The Help."

It was Frost's first Golden Globes Awards, and from the sound of it, she had a great time.

"After getting dressed and pampered by stylists and hair and make-up artists, I walked to the limo that was waiting for me, dressed in my gorgeous dress and stunning jewelry and accessories," Frost said. "The magnitude of the evening set in as I waved back at my good friends who were there to see me off."

Community service

2012-01-18T21:06:00.000+01:00

Bruno Mars has avoided a conviction for possessing cocaine after completing more than 200 hours of community service. Bruno was arrested in September 2010 after he was found with 2.6 grams of the substance in the toilets of Las Vegas's Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. He pleaded guilty in January 2011, saying that "he did a very foolish thing and has never used drugs before".
He was ordered to complete 200 hours of community service — but exceeded his quota by more than 30 hours. At the time the judge also ruled that Bruno should pay a fine of £1,300 and attend drug education classes. He could have faced up to four years in jail if convicted.

His lawyer Blair Berk said: "Bruno is very appreciative he is being given this opportunity as a first offender not to suffer any conviction and instead to have his charge dismissed. He is taking all of this quite seriously."

Katy Perry is a Sim

2012-01-18T21:04:00.000+01:00

Katy Perry has signed up with computer game The Sims, where players partly control characters in various real-life situations. Her tie-in will see Perry-themed content and virtual goods, such as clothing and hairstyles.
Katy said: "I love how you're able to play out different stories through your Sims characters — giving them different careers and watching them succeed. It's cool to see the Sims' stage performances decked out just like my California Dreams Tour – even my cotton candy video screens are in there! I always like to think of myself as a cartoon — and now I'm a Sim."

These are the facts

2012-01-18T21:01:00.000+01:00

Adele has cleared up rumours about her new boyfriend Simon Konecki — insisting he is divorced. She took to her blog yesterday to comment on reports about their romance.
She said: "This is the first and last time I will comment on the details of my relationship with Simon.
"Contrary to reports and headlines in the press today, Simon is divorced and has been for 4 years. Everyone in our lives separately and together wish us nothing but the best, and vice versa. These are the facts. Take care and see you all in February xx"

Sex orgies

2012-01-18T21:00:00.000+01:00

According to British tabloid The Sun, Britney Spears is bracing herself for a sizzling tell-all book which claims to lay bare kinky secrets of her sex life.
Former minder Fernando Flores, 31, says he is ready to lift the lid on threesomes, orgies and lesbian snogs during the Britney's tours. He claims he has lined up a million-dollar deal with a major publisher for the book, whose release is set to coincide with Britney's third marriage to Jason Trawick, 40.

Ex-cop Flores told a pal: "Britney has a huge sexual appetite and, from what she told me, her tours were an anything-goes environment. I heard stories of threesomes, orgies, girls making out — things that would make your hair stand on end. She had a lot of young, attractive dancers around her on tour, and things would get crazy. There was drinking, drugs, steamy sessions in hot tubs, all sorts of things."

Marry the night

2012-01-18T20:57:00.002+01:00

Lady Gaga's latest single "Marry The Night" jumps to number one on this week's Billboard Dance/Club Play Songs, becoming the 5th single from Born This Way to reach the top spot. This is also Gaga's twelfth number one the chart, making her the artist with the most chart toppers since her first one back in 2009.

The most dangerous beach

2012-01-18T20:56:00.000+01:00

A 25-year-old man was killed by a shark at Port St Johns Second beach on Sunday, the Eastern Cape health department said. “This afternoon a swimmer from Port St Johns was attacked by a shark and struggled with it for about five minutes using his surf board,” said spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo.

“A surfer who was next to him during the ordeal described the swimmer as being brave by fighting it. Unfortunately it injured him severely in both arms and in the chest,” he said.

A second eyewitness raised the alarm for other swimmers to leave the water.

“A doctor who was amongst the swimmers tried to save his life along with paramedics who arrived at the beach. The man died on the way to a local health centre.”

“Second beach is notorious for shark attacks and I am told that there is no shark net there,” said Kupelo.

That's why the write lovesongs

2012-01-18T20:54:00.000+01:00

Check out this wonderful song, titled That's Why They Write Lovesongs, by Kylie Minogue. Unfortunately, this song was only performed once, during opening night of the KylieX2008 Tour at POP Bercy in Paris, so this crappy recording is all that's left of it, but it still gives you a pretty good idea how great a song it is.

Made of honor

2012-01-18T20:52:00.001+01:00

Tonight on Dutch television: Made of Honor, starring Patrick Dempsey, Michelle Monaghan and Kevin McKidd.

Guess who's back

2012-01-18T20:50:00.002+01:00

After a bit of a break from blogging, I'm happy to report that, starting today, I'm back! So, thank you all for being patient, and don't forget to check back regularly from this point on!

Officially divorced

2011-12-19T22:34:00.000+01:00

Beyonce's parents. Mathew and Tina Knowles, are officially divorced today. The pair filed last month in Texas, or more accurately refiled, since their last attempt to go through with the divorce in 2009 failed when they didn't show up for their court date.

Tina said their marriage was "insupportable because of discord or conflict of personalities" … which "prevents any reasonable expectation of reconciliation" in the paperwork.

Box office hit

2011-12-19T22:31:00.000+01:00

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol dominated the foreign box office this weekend, landing the #1 spot and bringing in $68.2 million over the past five days!

The new Mission:Impossible movie opened in 6,079 locations in 36 offshore markets, and it ended up at #1 in "at least a dozen markets" including Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Spain.