Larger Than Life

Tebow Family Thoughts are with Philippine flood victims

2011-12-18T10:40:00.000-08:00

There are 652 people confirmed dead from the flooding devastation this weekend in the Philippine island of Mindanao, where the Tebow family lived for 1 1/2 years until moving to Manila because of complications with the birth of baby Tim. There are reportedly up to 800 missing in the northern region of Mindanao and hundreds of homes have been washed out to sea in the devastation from Typhoon Washi.

Bob Tebow, Tim Tebow’s dad, continues to perform mission work in Mindanao. His Bob Tebow Evangelistic Association currently has 16 men in Mindanao.

“We’re trying to gather as much information as we can,” Bob Tebow said this morning. “”We haven’t been able to reach anyone as of yet.”

Tim Tebow was born on a separate island of Luzon, where Manila is the Philippines’ capital city. The Tebows moved there from Mindanao because they needed medical care for Pam Tebow, who suffered complications while carrying the future Timothy Richard in pregnancy.

The Tebows moved to Jacksonville, Fla. when Tim Tebow was 3. Bob Tebow, though, travels several times a year to the Philippines and Tim started making missionary trips to the Southeast Asian country since he was 15. Tebow’s foundation recently announced plans to help finance a $3 million children’s hospital in Davao City in the southern region on the island of Mindanao.

Meanwhile, Tebow will start at quarterback for the Denver Broncos today in an AFC game against the New England Patriots at Sports Authority Field at Mile High.

General Larry Platt: A Real American Idol

2010-01-15T09:34:00.000-08:00

This week on American Idol, 62-year-old novelty rapper General Larry Platt upstaged all the "real" singers on the Atlanta auditions episode with his instantly viral hit, "Pants On The Ground." But Platt is not just some William Hungian TV clown angling for 15 minutes of YouTube fame. His real legacy in fact extends all the way back to the '60s, when he was a teenage crusader for the Civil Rights Movement in Georgia.

Share and enjoy

Victoria Beckham: ‘Simon Cowell is Short’

2010-01-13T10:31:00.000-08:00

Victoria Beck ham can't get over how short Simon Cowell is.

The former Spice Girls singer loves mocking her music mogul pal about his small stature - he stands at 5ft 8in - but admits he hates the jibes.

She is quoted by gossip website Absolute Now as saying: "I am always surprised at how short Simon is. I have known him for a while but it still always shocks me. We have to call it vertically challenged so he doesn't get too self-conscious."

This is not the only time the 35-year-old singer-turned-fashion designer has criticized Simon.

The pair worked together last year, when Victoria appeared as a guest judge on 'American Idol' - in an episode which aired Tuesday night.

During the show, the pair disagreed over one of the contestants.

Simon told the auditioning singer: "Good, but boring... I just found it very, very dull."

Victoria disagreed: "See, I didn't find you boring at all."

When the businessman sighed, she scolded him: "Why do you do that? That thing where you roll your eyes. It takes so much nerve to stand there and do that audition!"

Despite their on-screen row, Victoria was thrilled for the chance to appear on the talent show.

She said: "For me, I just love the fact that I could dip in and dip out. It was great... I saw so much talent, and to be a part of making someone's dream come true was exciting for me.

"So even if someone was really not that great, they might have a great pair of shoes on that I really appreciated. I can find something good to say about most people."

Kris Allen wins 'American idol'

2009-05-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Kris Allen, the winner of this year's American Idol!

Did Kris Allen's win over Adam Lambert shock you? Does this make you want to watch "American Idol" more since anything can happen, or does this sour you on the show?

Well last night's results came as a huge shocker. People were stunned. People said that Adam had been pegged as the winner since day one and outdid everyone each time.

They said that his performances were unforgettable and he will be remembered for days to come. Some say that they don't think Kris deserved the title of American Idol as much as Adam. They don't feel Kris should have even been in the top 3. Adam has so much personality and amazing vocals, and they were shocked that he didn't win and He deserved it. "you could sing the phonebook" was randy Jackson’s comment and no doubt about that.

I agree Kris is normal and that’s exactly what makes him a standout... Perhaps America wanted someone who's song they can sing with... in the person of Kris Allen. You can actually sing with Kris on his songs. On the other corner, Adam Lambert is such an amazing performer... So amazing you can hardly sing his songs and match his voice. Adam is great to watch and kudos to Adam for giving a wonderful performance each week. But when you are up against someone like Kris who touched the heart of many, and made America fall in love with him through his smooth rendition of music, it may be difficult to out-vote him.

Alec Baldwin Doesn’t Deserve a Filipina Wife

2009-05-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

Alec Baldwin's joke about getting a Filipino mail-order bride provoked a sharp response in the Philippines, with one senator saying Monday that the "30 Rock" star faces violence if he ever visits.

Baldwin, 51, who is divorced with a teenage daughter, said in a May 12 interview on "The Late Show" with David Letterman that he would love to have more children.

The Emmy-winning actor quipped that he was "thinking about getting a Filipino mail-order bride at this point ... or a Russian one."

Baldwin has been involved in a bitter dispute with his ex-wife, Oscar-winning actress Kim Basinger, over custody of their 13-year-old daughter, Ireland.

Philippine Sen. Ramon Revilla said Monday that Baldwin's comment was "insensitive and uncalled for" and an insult to millions of Filipinos.

He called the actor "arrogant" and said he is apparently unaware that the Philippines has a law against mail-order brides.

"Let him try to come here in the Philippines and he'll see mayhem," Revilla said, using a local idiom that implies the speaker will personally administer a beating.

The senator is a former action-movie star who occasionally still appears on Philippine TV.

Dancing with the Stars 2009 Week 9

2009-05-19T12:44:00.000-07:00

This show has had some very entertaining moments on it and there have been some moments of high exasperation for those of us watching from week to week. We have seen several stars make incredible progress from week to week. We've seen costumes that were fun and some that just didn't make the grade. Several stars have been voted off this season. The first star to be voted off this season was most likely a good choice, as he seemed to be one of the one's with the greatest need for improvement. He had at least one other star with him in that category. That person has lasted through this week with those with more talent being voted off instead. This show has gone into a no watch category with that happening. I won't watch another episode knowing that people with more talent are being voted off in favor of one who has next to no talent for this show.

Vote for the Dancing with the Stars 2009 Winner

I recently saw of Pure Dancing with the Stars to vote for the Dancing with the Stars 2009 winner. I posted 2 polls asking “Who do you WANT to be the Dancing with the Stars 2009 winner?” and “Who WILL be the Dancing with the Stars 2009 Winner?”

The following are the predictions for will become the Dancing with the Stars 2009 winner:

Who do you WANT to be the Dancing with the Stars 2009 winner?

Looks like Shawn Johnson has a lot to look forward to on the finale of Dancing with the Stars season 8. Although, I have to admit that this has to be the closest race ever in the history of Dancing with the Stars. I said previously that it reminds me of back when Mario Lopez and Joey Fatone were really close.

'American Idol' smackdown vs. Grammys

2009-05-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

With more than 9,000 voters piping in, Adam Lambert has a substantial lead over Kris Allen (68% vs 32%) in our poll asking this question: Which "American Idol" contestant will win more showbiz awards?

Those outcries are typical of many comments by posters furious — or baffled — by us daring to ask such a question. What's the problem? Isn't "American Idol" everyman's equivalent to the Grammys? The TV singing contest purports to tell us what average folk think of these performers. Why can't we compare them to the winners of the industry's Grammy?

On one hand, the pondering might reveal who'll win "Idol." Carrie Underwood is a fine example of someone who's won both contests. She's claimed four Grammys over all, including one of the top four prizes: best new artist. Maybe Kelly Clarkson too — she's won two Grammys in the pop categories.

However, success at one music contest doesn't necessarily mean payoff at the other. Among "Idol" losers, Jennifer Hudson has not only won a Grammy but an Oscar too. Chris Daughtry's self-titled band hasn't won a Grammy, but it has scored four nominations.

While we compare how America's Grammys have fared opposite the music biz's Grammys, it's relevant to explore how the "American Idol" TV show has fared when judged by the TV industry's highest honor: the Emmy.

Answer: not well. "American Idol" keeps winning TV's Nielsen contest. It's not only TV's top-rated reality show, it's the tube's most-watched show, period, but it's lost the Emmy for best reality competition show six times to "Amazing Race." It's also lost 32 other Emmy contests. Its only victories were in crafts categories and, since one of those (best technical direction, 2007) was for the "Idol Gives Back" TV special, that means that the actual weekly TV series has won only one Emmy (best picture editing, 2008).

Note To God Charice Lyrics

2009-05-18T12:19:00.001-07:00

The haunting and emotionally charged single "Note To God" was produced by the legendary David Foster and written by Grammy winner, Diane Warren. A bonafide internet sensation, Charice has racked up over 13 million hits on line.

Note to God
By: Charice

If I wrote a note to God
I would speak whats in my soul
I'd ask for all the hate to be swept away,
For love to overflow
If I wrote a note to God
I'd pour my heart out on each page
I'd ask for war to end
For peace to mend this world
I'd say, I'd say, I'd say

Give us the strength to make it through
Help us find love cause love is over due
And it looks like we haven't got a clue
Need some help from you
Grant us the faith to carry on
Give us hope when it seems all hope is gone
Cause it seems like so much is goin wrong
On this road we're on

If I wrote a note to God
I would say what on my mind
I'd ask for wisdom to let compassion rule this world
Until these times
If I wrote a note to God
I'd say please help us find our way
End all the bitterness, put some tenderness in our hearts
And I'd say, I'd say, I'd say

Give us the strength to make it through
Help us find love cause love is over due
And it looks like we haven't got a clue
Need some help from you
Grant us the faith to carry on
Give us hope when it seems all hope is gone
Cause it seems like so much is goin wrong
On this road we're on

No, no no no
We can't do this on our own
So

Give us the strength to make it through
Help us find love cause love is over due
And it looks like we haven't got a clue
Need some help from you
Grant us the faith to carry on
Give us hope when it seems all hope is gone
Cause it seems like so much is goin wrong
On this road we're on

If I wrote a note to God

‘Land of the Lost’ Poster with Will Ferrell ‘Land of the Lost’ Poster with Will Ferrell

2009-05-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

Here’s the brand new poster for the action comedy movie Land of the Lost starring Will Ferrell based on the TV show.

You may remember a little bit ago when we were showing a pic of the Sleestaks from the upcoming film The Land of the Lost. Well, now we’re back focusing another Sleestak (Enik) who happens to be the one that guards the time portal (if you remember back to the original series). Standing next to that well dressed Sleestak is Mr. Will Ferrell himself. I can’t say this is on my “top projects to catch” list, but I definitely don’t mind seeing the pics that release out of it here and there. Check out the full sized version and let me know what you think below.

Land of the Lost is set to be released on July 17th, 2009

Ayelet Zurer cast in Angels and Demons

2009-05-17T20:35:00.000-07:00

A big piece of the Angels and Demons casting puzzle has just been filled. According to Hollywood Insider, Israeli actress Ayelet Zurer has been cast as Vittoria Vetra for Angels and Demons.

The DaVinci Code was such a critically acclaimed book that it was doomed to be a movie, and fans either loved or hated the film. I ask one person if they liked it and it gets me a heartfelt fanboy rant about how good it was or a sigh of disgust followed by the lack of effort to go into what they hated one more time.

With such mixed reactions, were there enough people that are going to want to see this prequel?

Should they have started with this one first?

I just don’t know. I haven’t read the books as they don’t really fit in the genre I prefer to read.

Is casting news getting you excited about this or were you already done with DaVinci?

Fil-Greek Wrestling Star To Carry Pacquiao Belt

2009-05-02T09:16:00.001-07:00

Filipino-Greek professional wrestling star Batista will be toting one of Manny Pacquiao’s championship belts when the pound-for-pound king makes his way to the ring on Sunday May 02,2009 for his fight with Ricky Hatton, a TV report said today. Batista — David Michael Bautista Jr. in real life — has earlier expressed desire to be part of Pacquiao’s ring entourage after seeing fellow wrestlers the Undertaker and Christian Cage accompany the boxer during one of his previous fights.

A former World Wrestling Entertainment champion, Batista was born to a Filipino father and has publicly expressed pride for his Filipino heritage. In fact, he even sports a tattoo of the Philippine flag on his left bicep.

World Exclusive: Angelina Pregnant Again!

2009-04-21T07:54:00.000-07:00

And baby makes... seven!

In the April 27 issue of Star. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, are adding another child to their clan.

"Yes, Angie is pregnant," a family insider tells Star. "They'd been trying for another baby for months, but it was still a total shock when she found out. Brad and Angie have been fighting so much lately, it just didn't seem possible."

A source close to the actress confirms that Angie is about two and a half months along. "She's thrilled. She said she knew she was pregnant before the test confirmed it!" But she kept the news from Brad, only telling him when he returned from a trip to New Orleans at the end of March.

Baby number seven couldn't be coming at a better time because, as Star has reported, the duo have been fighting since Angie caught Brad warmly comforting a nanny in February.
"It happened just in time, because things were getting pretty ugly between them," says one source.

Revealed: Twilight Star's First Photo Shoot Pic!

2009-04-08T21:35:00.001-07:00

He's the planet's hottest heartthrob now, but Robert Pattinson was a shy, nervous beginner during his first sexy modeling shoot with (gulp!) a girl.

The Twilight star posed with British model Lucy Flower in 2001 in retro-style Miu Miu swimwear during a London shoot for the South China Morning Post newspaper’s weekend magazine.

“Robert was such a shy, reserved little boy back then, I never would have thought he had that kind of superstardom ahead of him,” Lucy tells Star in an exclusive interview.

"Also, I don’t believe he was very comfortable with the outfit he had to wear and the fact that he was shirtless. So it’s not surprising that he was so quiet and seemed so nervous that day.”

Separate Bedrooms for Brad & Angelina

2009-03-29T12:05:00.001-07:00

In the April 6 issue of Star — on sale now! — we report that Angie is still furious over catching Brad with one of the family nannies and has kicked him out of their bedroom.

While the couple once caused a stir with their loud lovemaking at an African resort, now Angelina won't let Brad near her at home. "Angie is still very angry over the nanny thing," an insider tells Star. "Right now, the separate bedrooms arrangement seems to be the best thing for them. Brad doesn't want to face her cold fury every night."

Brad is so unhappy about sleeping solo that he's even taken to "camping out" with the kids in sleeping bags inside little tents in their rooms. "He tells them it's because Mommy's working late again, but it's really because she banned him from their bedroom," the insider adds.

Hot Photo: Zac & Vanessa's Fairy-Tale Romance

2009-03-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

And they lived happily ever after... Young Hollywood sweethearts Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens posed as Princess Aurora and Prince Phillip from Sleeping Beauty and reenacted the famous kiss that awakened Aurora for Disney Park's "What Will You Celebrate?" campaign.

The photo — entitled Where Romance is Celebrated — was shot by famed photog Annie Leibovitz for the new magazine Disney twenty-three.

You can also read about Zac and Vanessa — plus Miley Cyrus, Robert Pattinson, Chace Crawford and more — in Star's special edition issue called Young Hollywood — on newsstands now.

Britney & Kevin: Falling In Love Again

2009-03-18T07:15:00.001-07:00

Oops, they're doing it again! Britney Spears and Kevin Federline went through a bitter divorce, but K-Fed is now waiting for Brit in the wings during her comeback concerts around the country — and sources tell Star that old loving feeling is coming back!

In the March 23 issue of Star — on sale now! — we report Kevin was brought on board for Brit's Circus tour to help watch over their young sons, Preston and Jayden. But he's not just a babysitter: Kevin has been showering Britney with attention and affection, say insiders — and she's lapping it up!

"The truth is, they're falling in love again," says an insider. "I don't think they ever really fell out of love to begin with!"

Kevin has actually been gushing to his mom that being with Britney now reminds him of when they first fell in love in 2004, a family insider tells Star.

The family friend reveals there's been "some kissing. It started when they agreed that Kevin would take the boys on tour. They've shared a lot of flirty moments."

On the Cover: John Mayer's $10M Tell-All

2009-03-18T07:07:00.001-07:00

How's this for a parting shot: Big mouth John Mayer wants to spill the intimate details of his relationship with Jennifer Aniston in a no-holds-barred book — including the night Jen called him "Brad" in bed!

In the March 30 issue of Star — on sale now! — we report that as if getting dumped by the singer (twice!) isn't bad enough, he's talking about penning a book sharing the very intimate details of their relationship.

"John just can't keep his mouth shut," a pal tells Star, "and he's telling friends that he's thinking of going public with all their juicy secrets."

So just what embarrassing info could John reveal? Well the fella who held an impromptu press conference on a New York City street the first time they split has a lot to say, as we detail in in our magazine. For one, Jen made a slip of the tongue calling John "Brad"... while they were in bed! He also knows all about her obsessive exercise regime, embarrassing TV viewing habits, devotion to astrology and numerology and has witnessed the actress throw fits!

Octo-Mom Update: Family Fights, Guns & More

2009-02-27T13:26:00.000-08:00

Nadya Suleman says she fears for her life after learning that one of her neighbors took out a gun and threatened the life of a photographer outside her home.

"I'm terrified," Nadya says, worried that the angry neighbor will associate her with the paparazzi camped outside her California home. She says she wants to move immediately.

But how will the Octo-Mom afford to move and care for her brood of 14? That's what her own mother, Angela Suleman, wants to know!

In an explosive new video from RadarOnline.com, Angela criticizes Nadya's decisions and asks her how she is going to provide for the kids.

"I have to let go of my need to control everything and accept the help that's been offered," a defensive Nadya replies.

Angela, looking defeated, counters, "I hope you'll get help."

Meanwhile, Nadya's dad (Angela's ex-husband) tells Oprah that he only has $100 in his bank account and is going back overseas to work as a linguist soon.

He also asked Oprah, in an episode airing Tuesday, if she can help with getting Nadya evaluated for mental illness.

Do you think Nadya is mentally ill? If you were in Nadya's position what would you do? Invite volunteers to help? Put the children up for adoption?

Rihanna: I Still Love Chris

2009-02-18T11:23:00.000-08:00

Chris Brown left her bruised and battered, but, according to friends, Rihanna can't help her deep feelings for her boyfriend of more than a year.

In the March 2 issue of Star — on sale now — we report that, to the shock of many, the singer has stayed in touch with her battering beau — and her unhealthy devotion to him is making those close to the abused singer worried sick.
"She keeps saying she wants to make sure that he's okay," a friend tells Star. "She thinks this will all just blow over and they can go back to how they were."
We have details about exactly what Rihanna said to Chris before he attacked her -- as well as an interview with an earwitness who heard Rihanna's piercing screams on the night of her shocking assault.

2009-02-16T11:40:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Aniston's stunning admission that she keeps a collection of recorded messages from ex-hubby Brad Pitt, insiders tell us that it goes far behind saving mementos — the actress obsessively listens to the tapes regularly in an attempt to relive the joy of their early romance.

"She's spent many lonely nights going through old keepsakes," an insider tells Star.

Among her favorite messages is one from when she and Brad first started dating, says a source. Jen still gets butterflies when she hears Brad whispering passionately, "I love you, Ms. Aniston." And, "I can't wait to get my hands on you, Golden." That was his pet name for her, the pal explains, and she called him "Baby." Another came after a spicy evening, Brad left this morning-after message: "You're the perfect lover!"

As their relationship went south — and Brad started spending time with Angelina Jolie on the set of Mr. and Mrs. Smith — the tone of his messages to his wife soon changed dramatically, says a source. We have all the details on those tapes, too.
We also reveal that the messages Jen is saving are just part of the stash of Brad memorabilia she's keeping years after they split. "It's all a bit creepy," a friend tells Star.

Kelly Clarkson: I'm Not a Lesbian

2009-02-08T20:45:00.001-08:00

Lesbians tell it to me all the time," the American Idol winner says of gay rumors. "I'm like, 'I'm glad it works for you and I wish I liked women like that because often times men are very hard for me, but I happen to like boys.'"

Kelly also told AOL's PopEater.com that, "I could never be a lesbian. I would never want to date (someone like) myself, ever. I'm a crazy person. I need some kind of stable, quiet man."

But with the release of her fourth album and the success of her new single "My Life Would Suck Without You," Kelly says her career takes priority over dating right now.

Pittsburgh Steelers Win

2009-02-03T20:23:00.000-08:00

Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu (L) poses with the Vince Lombardi Trophy and his wife, Theodora, and son Paisios, after the Steelers defeated the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL's Super Bowl XLIII football game in Tampa, Florida, February 1, 2009.

Megan Fox The Next Tomb Raider

2009-02-02T12:47:00.000-08:00

Megan Fox The Transformers star may replace Angelina Jolie in next Tomb Raider franchise.

While it's still just a rumor, Megan Fox may be taking over mother-of-six Angelina Jolie's role as Lara Croft in the famous 'Tomb Raider' saga.

Everyone is referring to 'Tranformers' actress Megan Fox as the Angelina 2.0., and rumor has it that Megan Fox will star as the next Lara Croft.

While it's still just a rumor, Megan Fox may be taking over mother-of-six Angelina Jolie's role as Lara Croft in the famous 'Tomb Raider' saga. Everyone is referring to 'Tranformers' actress Megan Fox as the Angelina 2.0., and rumor has it that Megan Fox will star as the next Lara Croft. So why is Megan Fox considered to be Angelina Jolie 2.0? Well, they look alike - a lot.

Brangelina's Megamillions New York Estate

2009-01-27T15:38:00.001-08:00

Angelina Jolie will soon be in New York to begin filming the spy thriller Salt — and she's looking at a sweet rental deal on a $60 million property for herself, Brad Pitt and their six kids while she's there! The Brangelina bunch are said to be moving into the fabulous Sassafras estate in the exclusive waterfront town of Lloyd Neck, in the toney "Gold Coast" area of Long Island's North Shore. The estate boasts a 22,000-square-foot Tudor-style main house, a separate 11-bedroom staff house, a private dock and two helipads. Maybe Angelina, a licensed pilot, will be flying her own chopper to the film set!

First Knock-Off of Michelle Obama's Inauguration Ball Dress

2009-01-27T15:31:00.000-08:00

Now you can dress like the First Lady! The one-shouldered, full-length white gown — designed by Jason Wu — that Michelle Obama wore to 10 inaugural balls on Tuesday night already has an affordable knock-off. The clothing site eDressMe.com is taking orders for a look-alike gown, with a ruched shoulder and accented with sequined flowers and lace, that retails for $320 and is available for shipment on March 15. I thought the dress was very pretty although I thought it would look better on someone younger. It wasn't what I expected her to wear.

Good-bye Rustom Padilla, Hello Bebe Gandanghari

2009-01-27T15:21:00.000-08:00

Rustom now announced that he’s leaving his male self in the past and will be revealing his ‘soul’ to the public. The actor boldly said that ‘Rustom is dead’ and that Bebe is the embodiment of the tantra he is now living by. "And if there's one motto (that) I'm living in my life right now, it's 'Be all that you can be.'"

Bebe (as Rustom would like people to call him now) describes her new identity as a God-fearing and loving lady. Bebe said that she undergoes the same trouble other women do, such as making himself beautiful at all times. She even recalled the time that she had to attend an event and she had to put on makeup. "Hindi kumakapit ang makeup. That's when I realized ang hirap maging babae. Kaya pala ang babae, 'pag wala sa mood wala sa mood," she shared.

Bebe has recently arrived in the country from a vacation in the US, where she studied modeling. It was during that vacation that she realized who she really was and that the Rustom everyone knew is gone. "There's this one moment na nagkaroon siya ng one-on-one and after… what you're actually looking at now is the soul of a person," explained Bebe profoundly. When asked if she has a boyfriend, Bebe shyly said that she has none. However, she stated that she’d like to find someone tall, dark and handsome like actor Richard Gomez. She adds that Lucy Torres-Gomez has nothing to worry about though. “I don’t go for married men,” Bebe said laughingly.

On the Cover: Sarah Jessica's Moving Out

2009-01-06T10:15:00.001-08:00

Star told you first that Sarah Jessica Parker's husband, Matthew Broderick, was cheating on her with a younger woman. Now, we can exclusively report that the beloved Sex and the City superstar has begun house hunting in New York City — solo!

In the Jan. 19 issue of Star — on sale now! — we report that while Sarah thought she could make it work with her straying mate, she recently visited a midtown real estate broker to help her find her own place.

"The time has come when she realizes it just isn't worth it," a friend of the couple tells Star. "Sarah Jessica is determined to get her own place and bring down the curtain on her marriage."
Adds another insider: "Sarah's not stupid. She knows exactly what's going on. For a while it was easier for her to stay than go through a harsh divorce. They're essentially living separate lives."
Now that the holidays are over, the actress is revisiting her exit strategy, which takes into careful consideration the couple's 6-year-old son, James Wilkie — just about the only thing holding the pair together.

Hollywood's Top Money-Making $tar Is...

2009-01-06T10:14:00.001-08:00

The Hancock and Seven Pounds actor has been voted the top money-making movie star of 2008, knocking Johnny Depp out of the top spot in the Quigley Poll. Jada Pinkett Smith's husband is only the second African-American actor to top the poll in its 76 year history. Sidney Poitier placed first in 1968.

The Quigley Poll is an annual survey of motion theater owners and film buyers, which asks them to vote for the ten stars that they believe generated the most box-office revenue for their theaters during the year. Robert Downey Jr., Christian Bale, Shia LaBeouf and Harrison Ford rounded out the top five.

In addition to being a bankable actor, Will is also one of Hollywood's most charitable stars. As we reported in the Jan. 5 issue of Star, the Oscar nominated talent recently visited St. Louis Children's Hospital in Missouri and spent time with 12-year-old car accident victim John Bryer and some other patients.
"As a parent, the way he took the time to raise John's spirits — and those of all the children in the room — is something I'll never forget," John's father, Wiley Bryer, told Star. "He's a special guy!"

Madonna's Daughter Wants to be a Star

2009-01-06T10:12:00.001-08:00

Lourdes Leon is following in her famous mother's footsteps. Madonna's 12-year-old daughter — who we already told you has big dreams of being a star — has enrolled in Manhattan's Professional Children's School now her mom got divorced and moved the family to the Big Apple.

Her curriculum will include drama, fine arts and music at least twice a week. Lourdes, whose father is Madge's ex Carlos Leon, will be following in the famous footsteps of celebs including Sarah Jessica Parker, Scarlett Johansson and new dad Jerry O'Connell, who are all alumni of Professional Children's School.

A source recently told Star that Lourdes wants to start acting professionally when she turns 14 in 2010.

Here's hoping she's better than her mom, who — despite amazing success in the music world — has received scorching reviews for her acting parts in Swept Away, The Next Best Thing and Body of Evidence.

Travolta, Preston heartbroken over son's death

2009-01-05T10:58:00.000-08:00

Actors John Travolta and Kelly Preston said Sunday they are "heartbroken" over last week's death of their teenage son.

Jett Travolta, 16, died Friday after a seizure while vacationing with his family in the Bahamas, an attorney for the family has said.

"Jett was the most wonderful son that two parents could ever ask for and lit up the lives of everyone he encountered," Jett Travolta's parents said in a statement Sunday.

Fishy Face Painting

2009-01-03T18:55:00.000-08:00

I watched this Fishy Face Painting picture and just had to share it with you - Even the most simple designs can be fun.:-)

Shoes Thrown At Bush In Iraq During Press Conference---Yesterday Dec. 14

2008-12-15T07:57:00.000-08:00

Click and watch the video

People all over the world are searching it online as the “Bush Shoe.” Today, President George Bush made an unannounced visit to Iraq. During a press conference, as part of a ceremonial signing of a security agreement, the President of the United States was greeted by a pair of flying shoes aggressively thrown at him, one after another, and insulted in Arabic by Iraqi journalist Muntazer al-Zaidi. Fortunately, the President managed to dodge the smelly pair of “number 10’s.”

n Arab culture, throwing shoes is a grave show of disrespect. “This is the farewell kiss, you dog,” the man shouted in Arabic.

After the jump, you can see a video of President Bush escaping the pair of shoes intended for his face. When asked about the incident President Bush claimed he believed the pair of shoes were a size 10.

From "TITANIC TO REVOLUTIONARY ROAD"

2008-12-12T10:52:00.001-08:00

Kate and Leo Together Again 12 years after "Titanic," Winslet and DiCaprio take a trip down "Revolutionary Road". More than a decade after the 'Titanic' sank, Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet have been reunited on the silver screen.

Who's still crying from the ending of Titanic? Raise your hand and come sit over here with me. Okay, we can all settle down now, because our beloved Jack and Rose portrayers, Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, have found a new life together -- in their latest flick Revolutionary Road -- and on the cover of the new Entertainment Weekly.

But "Revolutionary Road," the classic novel by Richard Yates about a young married couple suffering fro the soul-crushing conformity of '50s suburban America, has brought them back together.

Pinay Swept Out To Sea During Proposal

2008-12-08T20:53:00.000-08:00

Warning: This story makes it hard to decide whether you should laugh at the irony and ridiculousness, or cry because it's sad.

I heard this story earlier in the week from KATU in Portland, Oregon and it set off all kinds of red flags. But so far, it does appear to be a very tragic accident. At least that's what's being said in public.

From: KATU
SALEM, Ore. – Scott Napper had scouted out Proposal Rock before and knew just the right spot on the Neskowin Beach landmark to ask Leafil Alforque to marry him.
But on Saturday the Silverton man found himself running out of time to pop the question.
The 45-year-old man and 22-year-old woman were technically already engaged since he had to fill out the government paperwork allowing her to travel to Oregon last Wednesday from her home in the Philippines.
In fact, they had already set their wedding date for Dec. 6 – the two-year anniversary of when they met online.
But Napper wanted to make a real proposal. And so he found himself Saturday on the beach in an area of the coast between Lincoln City and Tillamook guiding her toward Proposal Rock, where he hoped to take her to a secluded spot overlooking the ocean.
Napper said he had been watching the tide and waiting for the right time to approach the landmark. And as they neared, the water started rushing over their ankles. But suddenly, within 15 feet of the rock, a sneaker wave of more than 2 feet hit them, he said.
Gone in a flash
He spread his legs for balance and leaned into the force of the wave. Seconds later, he turned and saw the 4 foot 11 inch woman reaching out for him. She didn't yell or scream, but her mouth was open.
She was already 25 to 30 feet away.
"I just couldn't get to her," he said. "She was just gone in a flash."
By the time he peeled off his coat, which was weighing him down, he could no longer see her.
As he called her name, the surf got rougher. Another man tried in vain to help in the search. Napper found one of her shoes.
He kept searching. Eventually, he was told to come back. His heart jumped when he saw a woman in a red coat on the beach, thinking it was his Leafil. But as he got closer, he realized it was just a stranger.
A few minutes after he came back to shore, someone spotted her other shoe.
"There was just nothing anybody could do," Napper said.
Rough seas hinder rescue
There were 20-foot seas that afternoon and no visibility due to fog. The Coast Guard was unable to respond from its Depoe Bay station due to the dangerous water, and a Coast Guard helicopter crew from Astoria had to turn back after repeatedly being struck by birds.
A second helicopter crew finally reached the area but had to turn back after 15 minutes due to the rough weather.
They found no sign of her.
Napper said authorities told him the water was 53 degrees that day; no one could survive those conditions for long.
And so, eventually, he had to come back to his empty Silverton home without her.
When he called her family, they thought the couple was pulling a joke on them at first.
"I wish to God it was a joke," Napper said.
Memories of her
He anguished over whether to return the cream-colored strapless wedding dress he had bought for her at Macy's the day before she disappeared. No one – not even him – got to see her in it.
"I knew if I just left it in the closet, it would be there forever, and I would just be living it forever," Napper said.
Napper, a professional trumpet player and substitute teacher, soon told more and more friends about his heartache.
Each time he talked about her, it got a little easier.
She was romantic and kind and wanted her own children like he did. In the Philippines, she cooked and cleaned and kept things running in the household, which included three boys and three girls, Napper said. She worked for hours at a time to help the youngest eat; the 3-year-old girl suffers from epilepsy, he said.
"She was so selfless," Napper said.
A 21st century courtship
They met on an online dating Web site – www.person.com – on Dec. 5, 2006 – (it was Dec. 6 in her timezone.)
They corresponded for 13 months before he went to visit her in January 2008 for three weeks. He tried to get her into the U.S. on a travel visa but that was rejected. And so he went ahead and started a fiancee visa, he said, which took much of this year to get processed.
In the meantime, Leafil told him she couldn't live without him and called herself Mrs. Napper.
"She kept one of my shirts and wore that thing to bed every night for months because it had my scent on it," he said.
Neither had been married before. She wanted to tie the knot before Christmas, so he figured they should do it on their anniversary. He planned a small ceremony at Silver Falls State Park by the North Falls.
Gone but not forgotten
Leafil was only in the U.S. for four days before she was swept out to sea. Tillamook County Sheriff Todd Anderson said Wednesday she is presumed drowned.
"The hardest thing for me right now is the fact that she's out there right now," Napper said.
He is hoping her remains are recovered. Authorities give him no assurances that will happen.
In the meantime, Napper has tried to move on, keeping his appointments and commitments and caring for his aging mother who lives in Salem and suffers from Parkinson's.
But the grief still weighs heavily on him.
This Saturday he plans to head to Silver Falls State Park alone. He'll stand in the very spot where they were supposed to get married. And he'll think of her.
"I might even put my ring on," Napper said.
"

Filipino Famous Celebrity

2008-11-20T07:43:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of half-Filipino famous celebrity:

Cheryl Bautista Burke - is a two time Emmy nominated professional dancer. As the professional dancer partner, she won the competition in the second and third seasons of ABC's American version of Dancing with the Stars with celebrity dance partners Drew Lachey (February 2006) and Emmitt Smith (November 2006). She is of Filipino, Russian, and Irish descent.

Shannon Marie Kahololani Sossamon --is an American actress, musician, dancer, DJ, and former model. She is perhaps best known for her roles in A Knight's Tale, The Rules of Attraction, 40 Days and 40 Nights and One Missed Call. She is of Dutch, English, Filipino, French, German, Hawaiian, and Irish descent.
Vanessa Anne Hudgens -- is an American actress and singer. She made her debut in 2003 appearing in the Hollywood films Thirteen and Thunderbirds, before reaching fame in 2006 after appearing as Gabriella Montez in the Disney Channel film High School Musical hit series. Hudgens began a music career and released her debut album, V, in 2006. (Irish-Native American father, Filipina mother)

Vanessa Joy Minnillo -is an American television personality. A former Miss Teen USA, she is mostly known for hosting Total Request Live on MTV from 2003–2007 as well her past reporting as a New York-based correspondent for Entertainment Tonight. (Italian-Irish-American father, Filipina mother)

Nicole Scherzinger- is an American pop singer-songwriter dancer, model, and occasional actress best known as the lead vocalist for the Pussycat Dolls.She took the surname Scherzinger when she was adopted by her stepfather. (Filipino father, Hawaiian-Russian mother)

Tia Carrere – is an American actress, model, and singer, perhaps most widely known for her role as Cassandra in the feature films Wayne's World and Wayne's World 2 and as Sydney Fox in the TV series Relic Hunter. She is of Filipino, Spanish, Chinese and Hawaiian ancestry.

Cher Calvin- is now one of the news anchors of KTLA.^[1] She was born in New York City, New York) to both Filipino parents where her father is half-white American. Cher took the spot in January, 2005. She was a former news anchor of Studio 23's "News Central" (Studio 23, UHF channel of ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, Manila Philippines) and one of the host of a fashion magazine show "F" on ABS-CBN. Miss New York,1st runner up (Half-White American father, Filipina mother).

Phoebe Cates - is an American film actress known for her roles in several teen films, most notably Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Gremlins. She is of Chinese Filipino descent, and her father as well as her maternal grandmother were of Russian Jewish origin.

David Michael Bautista, Jr.--- is a 4-time World Champion, 3-time World Tag Team Champion, 1-time WWE Tag Team Champion, and the winner of the 2005 Royal Rumble match. He is of Filipino and Greek heritage. (Bautista's father, David Michael Bautista, is Filipino and his mother, Donna Raye Bautista, is Greek).

Rob Schneider- international actor, comedian, Saturday Night Live performer.
Starring roles in the comedies Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo. He is (Jewish father, Half-Filipina mother).
Lou Diamond Phillips – is an American film, television, and stage actor. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Ritchie Valens in the 1987 biopic La Bamba.(American father of mixed descent, Filipina mother of mixed descent)

Cris Judd –is an American actor and choreographer. He is best known for his failed marriage to Jennifer Lopez. (White American father, Filipina mother)

Brandon Vera- is an American mixed martial arts fighter, currently fighting in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) as a light heavyweight. He currently resides in San Diego, California. He is the son of a Filipino father, Ernesto, and an Italian-American mother, Amelia.

Chad Hugo-is a Filipino-American, Grammy Award-winning producer. He is best known as one half of the music production and writing duo The Neptunes (along with Pharrell) and is a member of funk/rock band N*E*R*D. He is a saxophonist, pianist, and guitarist.

Kirk Lee Hammett - is the lead guitarist and a songwriter in the band Metallica and has been a member of the band since 1983. Before joining Metallica he formed and named the band Exodus. In 2003 Hammett was ranked 11th in Rolling Stone's list - The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time. Filipina mother and an Irish Merchant Marine father.
Allan Pineda Lindo- better known as apl.de.ap, is a hip hop musician, record producer, and member of the Black Eyed Peas. He was born in the Barangay (Barrio) of Sapang Bato, Angeles City, Pampanga, in the Philippines, to a Filipino mother and African American father.

Venom Never went Away.....

2008-11-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

Venom is any of a variety of toxins used by certain types of animals, for the purpose of defense and hunting. Generally, venom is injected by such means as a bite or a sting, while a poison is absorbed by ingestion or through the skin.

In our pride we begin to carry a bag of poison on our shoulders. Day by day the bag grows with our preoccupations of rancor, disdain, hate, cynicism, and revenge. Though we may feel the pain from the distressful weight at first, as unrepentant time passes. The weight of misery increases.

Venom seeps through the bag in to the body and soul of it’s carrier, causing spiritual paralysis. However, not only mind and spirit affected but also the physiology of the body can be impaired. In many cases, the immune system was dramatically weakened. This self-inflicted poison often lead to a serious disease, even death.

As with the disciple of old , he who carries the greater sin comes to be afflicted and sorely chastened.” It grieves our Heavenly Father to see the condemnation we brings ourselves In this life and in the life to come when we do not learn how to forgive.

One of the most divisive tools Lucifer uses in waging war against the kingdom of God on earth is putting into the souls of men an unforgiving heart. And being every one of us is affected to some extend.

Barack Obama Chose The Highly Symbolic Venue of Grant Park, Chicago last night

2008-11-05T09:29:00.001-08:00

The full text of the speech US President-elect Barack Obama delivered to a huge crowd in Chicago last Night.

Gigantic Obama face buried in sand

2008-11-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

U.S. artist Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada poses next to a projected image of an aerial view of the face of U.S. Democratic presidential nominee Senator Barack Obama (D-IL), during a news conference in a hotel in Barcelona November 3, 2008.

OSCAR DE LA HOYA VS. MANNY PACQUIAO announced their megabucks fight at a joint press conference in Liberty Island in New York.

2008-10-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and "Golden Boy" Oscar De La Hoya were in Chicago last week (October 2, 2008) as part of the 6-city promotional tour of the December in their “Dream Match” mega fight scheduled December 6, 2008 at MGM Las Vegas.
De la Hoya Golden boy promotions reported almost sold out the tickets as soon as the tickets were announced. More than the hype, the choice of the statue liberty was an exclamation point on the racial background of both fighters. ” Having opportunity to announce the fight at the statue of Liberty is like a dream come true,” said De La Hoya. “As the son of immigrants and a very proud Mexican-American, I believe the statue of Liberty is the United States greatest symbol of freedom and opportunity. I take great pride in what I have been able to accomplish as the son of immigrants and see myself as the true testament to the notion that with opportunity, hard work and determination anyone can realize their dreams.” Filipino ring Idol Manny Pacquiao had these words: “ Although I am from the Philippines, the United States has given me the greatest opportunity to advance my career and financial security for my family and I,” said Pacquiao. “ Many Filipinos and some of my family members live there and the Statue of Liberty is a symbol of the great opportunities offered by the United States to the rest of the world.” After New York and Chicago, both fighters are proceeding to Houston and San Francisco and Los Angeles, California. Here in Chicago Pacquiao and De La Hoya had one-on one interview with members of the media at the 99th floor of the Sears Tower and the general press conference at the Sky Deck ( 103rd floor).

Manny Pacquaio's Former Work--Gensan Fishport

2008-10-12T21:38:00.001-07:00

It is not widely known that before his boxing championship status, Manny Pacquiao used to work at the General Santos City Fishport (among other jobs he had). Manny's physical condition is that of a superman and this explains part of the reason why no challenger has been able to defeat him. His physical training is phenomenal as you can see how days of intense work at the fishport by lifting heavy tuna on a daily basis helped to develop him as the best fighter in the world! He is going to be multi-world boxing champion for as long as he wants. No one will be able to defeat him unless they have the same training history.

Manny Pacquiao VS Diaz

2008-10-12T21:35:00.000-07:00

Boxers Manny Pacquiao (L) and David Diaz pose after a news conference to announce their June 28, 2008 WBC World Lightweight Championship bout in Los Angeles May 13, 2008. [REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson (UNITED STATES)]

Filipino boxing hero Manny Pacquiao knocked out David Diaz to win the WBC lightweight title before a jampacked crowd at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Saturday (Sunday in Manila).

Pacquiao sent a battered Diaz down the canvas with a left hook with 26 seconds remaining in the ninth round.

The details of their fight last night round by round:

Round 1: Manny lands heavy bombs from both left and right. Diaz refuses to go down but unable to land any clear shot.

Round 2: Manny demonstrates lethal effectiveness of his right jabs using it to stop Diaz attacks. Diaz is unable to land effective counters and Pacquiao’s right left combination caused a cut on Diaz’ right eyebrow.

Round 3: Diaz starts to fight back but unable to land anything worth mentioning. His absorption capacity though is tremendous. Pacquiao’s left has not lost any strength with the increase in weight and his right hand now is surprisingly strong and very fast. Despite that, Diaz remains standing.

Round 4 - The two southpaws exchanged blows but Pacquiao kept pouncing on Diaz with a flurry of left and right punches.

Round 5 - Pacquiao threw jabs at Diaz and continued his relentless attack. Diaz’s cut over his right eye got bigger.

Round 6 - Diaz again tried to pressure Pacquiao in the sixth round only to receive more punishment.

Round 7 - Pacquiao continued his domination of the fight by connecting punches to head of Diaz.

Round 8 - Pacquiao unloaded soft shots and followed up with strong punches to the head and body of Diaz, who obviously is a sturdy lightweight.

Round 9 - Diaz falls, Pacquiao wins

Heath Ledger Joker Icon

2008-10-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

Heath Andrew Ledger (April 4, 1979 – January 22, 2008).

I just FINALLY saw the dark knight last night. Yeah, I know it took me a while. But what I can honestly say is that Heath’s performance absolutely made the entire movie. I’m saddened that we will never know what more he could have done. It breaks people hearts to know that he is no longer with us. Just watching the trailer I am in shock I can't believe that is actually him playing the joker. I believe wholeheartedly, that his performance is one for the record books, and all actors should look at how he completely created the character and the environment. Everyone else in the film, besides the greats Oldman and Caine, pale in comparison to what Heath did in this film. Genius.
What I found more amazing was the production values of this movie. They blew up a real frickin' building in Chicago just for this movie! The way every scene was coordinated and the man power it took. Now that blew me away! Pun intended.

This is the one that my husband make during watching TV, talking on the phone and all of the sudden he could create an incredible images that it look the same in the pictures.

Barack Obama's Prayer

2008-07-25T20:44:00.000-07:00

What??? A second post about Obama in this blog? You better believe it. I felt the need to do it because this past Thursday in Jerusalem, Obama presented a prayer in the Wailing Wall and I found it very, very moving. I pride myself in telling it like it is, "no tengo pelos en mi lengua, I have no hairs on my tongue." Apparently, after he made this prayer which he wrote on hotel stationery, a seminary student took it out and gave it to some newspaper. The newspaper printed the prayer, which for all intended purposes is a private dialogue between God and his creation. But I found this prayer so moving because it was very sincere. I don't know if Bush has ever prayed like this, but Obama proves that he is a very, very spiritual man and is also very human. (And I don't care what the Right Wing Christian Conservatives say. Besides, the truth is that they are neither Christian nor right. But most of them are a bunch of racists no-gooders, that believe they hold a monopoly on Christianity, which the poor saps really don't!) He understands that the is poised to make world history. I believe that through this prayer he also has an understanding that when he becomes the leader of the free world he is also essentially the leader of the entire world, like it or not. In ancient times we had our King Solomon's and King David's. Men that were very close to God, men who acknowledged God and he acknowledged them. I feel a lot better about Obama and his intentions and his hopes about what he wants to do for this country and this world. As believers in God, especially if we are Christian, we too should also pray to God for his protection of us all and that he guides us. God answers prayers. Below is the prayer so you can read it yourself.

"Lord, protect my family and me. Forgive me my sins and help me guard against pride and despair. Give me the wisdom to do what is right and just. And make me an instrument of your will."---Barack Obama, U.S. Presidetial Candidate

Barack Obama Speaks At a Campaign Rally
Nearly 75,000 spectators jam into Waterfront Park to see Barack Obama speak at a campaign rally in Portland, Oregon. Believe it or not? Believe it.

Obama Rama

2008-07-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

Barack Obama has risen to fame faster than any one else in American history. Plus he is African-American. Who would have thought? All the racists in America must be rolling on the floor like rabid dogs because (finally) a black man is poised to become president of the good old USA. It is a historic victory of monumental proportions. If he does become El Jefe, I hope and pray it is for the best of this country.

There is one thing however that I don't personally agree with him. If he claims to be a Christian then why does he support abortions? I guess this is the same question one can ask of a Republican. If they consider themselves Christians, why do they love to send people to war to kill people and have our soldiers be killed? Complete and total contradictions. Most disturbing however is how the American public doesn't really ask the in-dept questions. American thinking continues to be very superficial. If the Republicans oppose abortions then they should create programs to help the disenfranchised to prevent abortions in the first place. That is why I have never trusted any politician. They are all corrupt and use the Bible and Jesus Christ for their own personal gain.

Unfortunately, Obama himself has become a Jesus type. Some of his supporters want to lick the ground he walks on. That my friends is called idol worshiping, like it or not. But this is a blog that presents "Larger than Life" personalities. With one big difference, you are not being asked to idolize anyone except of course the Creator. He is the true "Jefe".