NBCUniversal's Star-Studded Telethon for Hurricane Sandy Relief: Christina Aguilera & Bruce Springsteen Set to Perform

by Erin La Rosa Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 6:30 PM PDT

Jason Kempin/WireImage.com; Peter Kramer/NBC; Christopher Polk/Getty Images; Dimitrios Kambouris/WireImage

The devastation of Hurricane Sandy gave us a lot to digest this week.

And, in response, NBCUniversal and its networks—think NBC, Bravo, CNBC, E!, G4, MSNBC, Style, Syfy and USA—are teaming up to broadcast a live one-hour telethon called "Hurricane Sandy: Coming Together" to benefit the victims.

The special, which airs this Friday, Nov. 2, at 8/7c, will be filmed live from 30 Rockefeller Plaza with host Matt Lauer and guests like Jimmy Fallon and Brian Williams. Plus, they'll be joined by special performances from Christina Aguilera, Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Billy Joel and Sting.

Need donation inspiration? See how Chelsea Handler's giving back

All donations made during the telethon will be donated to the American Red Cross and their relief efforts. But if you want to start donating early, you can visit their website, call 1-800-RED-CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make an easy $10 donation.

Make sure to support the relief efforts by tuning in to the telethon—which will air live on all NBCUniversal networks—this Friday, Nov. 2, at 8/7c.

(E! Online is part of the NBCUniversal family.)

These celeb-owned Hamptons homes could be taking a beating

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Jason Aldean and Wife Reunite on CMA Awards Red Carpet Following Cheating Scandal

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2012 CMA Awards' Best Dressed: Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood Stun in Embellished Gowns

by Jennifer Chan Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 7:29 PM PDT

ABC/SARA KAUSS

Several fashionable stars wowed us with their red carpet looks at this year's Country Music Awards in Nashville. From beaded chiffon gowns, plunging necklines and even a stylish surprise (three words: fierce cheetah print), we were blown away (no pun intended, Carrie Underwood!) by the sophisticated looks and stunning accessories.

Speaking of the CMA host, the belle of the ball looked absolutely flawless in an embellished Reem Acra design, while her country counterpart Kellie Pickler was cool and confident in an ice blue strapless silhouette.

As for an overall winner, we have to hand it to the multi-talented Taylor Swift, who manages to consistently prove (this time in a show-stopping Jenny Packham number), that red really is her color.

See our round-up of the best dressed at the 2012 Country Music Awards! Which look was your favorite? 

See our picks for Best Dressed at the 2012 CMA Awards 

View the original article here

The X Factor Recap: 4 Singers Get Sent Home

by Bruna Nessif Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 7:30 PM PDT

Ray Mickshaw/ FOX

Tonight was a tough one for the X Factor mentors.

Demi Lovato, Britney Spears, L.A. Reid and Simon Cowell were each able to save two singers from their team based off of last night's performances, with the remaining two taking the stage for a sing-off, leaving only one moving to the top 12. 

Ultimately, four acts were sent home—here's what went down.

Khloé Kardashian Odom admits to "a little nip action" during X Factor debut

Young Adults

The first act Lovato put through to the next round was Jennel Garcia. Joining her in the top 12 was Paige Thomas, which meant CeCe Frey and Willie Jones had to sing their heart out for the last spot on Demi's team. 

CeCe was up first and her performance of "Out Here on My Own" by Irene Cara got everyone choked up, including Demi, and Frey quickly reminded us why she was one to watch out for in the competition. Jones followed and sang "You Don't Know Me" by Ray Charles, and his unique voice could not be ignored. 

Unfortuately, Demi could only keep one person. So who did she send home? Sorry, Willie. 

Read last night's recap!

Over 25s

L.A. chose to save Vino Alan and Tate Stevens, leaving David Correy and Jason Brock singing for their survival in the competition. 

Correy went up first and did an interesting version of Kelly Clarkson's "Since You've Been Gone," and incorporated his usual emotional approach and hit some crazy notes. Demi and Simon weren't too crazy about the way he sang the song, saying it was a little too dramatic. Um, yeah. He's on the verge of being eliminated!

Brock went up next with Whitney Houston's "One Moment in Time." Britney and Demi seemed pleased with his performance, but then Simon chimed in, "You're asking me to judge two horses who are coming last in a race," and didn't think either of them could win the competition.

Well, luckily for Correy and Brock, it's not up to Simon. L.A. made the decisions, and he chose to save Jason, sending David Correy home. 

The top 16 get new looks!

Teens

Britney picked Beatrice Miller and Carly Rose Sonenclar to move forward in the competition, which meant Arin Ray and Diamond White were in a sing-off.

Ray sang Whitney Houston's "I Look to You," and he sounded amazing, but the girls' screams almost made it hard to hear him belt the late diva's hit track. The judges were all impressed and felt like him leaving the competition would be a mistake. But, White's rendition of Mary J. Blige's "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word" was, well, amazing. All the judges loved her, too! Tough, tough decision. 

Simon genuinely didn't want either to leave the competition, but one had to go. Get ready for your jaws to drop, because Britney sent Diamond home. Shocked faces everywhere. 

Britney talks X Factor and her love life

Groups

The first group Simon put in the top 12 was Emblem 3 (who were all present, despite one of the members reportedly getting hospitalized over some bad tuna). The second act he saved was rap group, Lyric 145.

Sister C took the stage first by singing Miley Cyrus' "When I Look at You," and there's no doubt that these girls have natural talent and are able to harmonize very well together. The judges enjoyed their performance, but they still had to hear 1432. The girl group, which was put together during the judges' homes part of the competition, sang Lovato's "Skyscraper," and Demi even said that they sang it better than "the original singer." 

So who snagged the last spot on the top 12? Simon saved 1432. 

Check out these X Factor OMG moments!

View the original article here

Miley Cyrus' Porn Star Pal Jessie Andrews: 5 Things to Know

by Marc Malkin Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 7:00 PM PDT

Stephen Lawton, Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Miley Cyrus has a new friend.

Her name is Jessie Andrews and...she's a porn star!

OK, they're not like besties, but both do appear in the music video for "Decisions," a catchy new dance single from Andrews' ex-boyfriend, dubstep artist Borgore.

Are Miley and Liam having three wedding ceremonies?

We're assuming most Cyrus fans aren't exactly familiar with Ms. Andrews. We certainly weren't.

So with that in mind, here are five things you should know about the 20-year-old It girl of the adult film world:

1. Sunshine State: Andrews grew up in Miami. She jumped into the porn industry just two years after her 18th birthday. And no, Jessie Andrews isn't her real name. She came up with the professional moniker by combining the name of her mom's dog and the street she grew up on.

Check out Miley's Nicki Minaj Halloween costume

2. Parental Approval: Mom and dad know what their daughter does for a living. "They told me they'd love me no matter what," Andrews told Vice magazine. "They just want me to be safe and happy."

3. Filmography: Her list of credits is massive with 139 films under her belt. Her more popular titles include Portrait of a Call Girl, Teach Me and—get ready for it!—Study Buddy Booty Call. And she's got quite the fan base. As of today, she has close to 238,000 followers on Twitter.

4. Game On: She's a Lakers fan. "All i'm gonna say is: the Lakers would have won tonight if [Dwight] Howard would have made all his free throws," she tweeted about their opening game against the Mavericks on Monday night.

5. Business Woman: Porn isn't Andrews' only career. Earlier this year, she launched Bagatiba, a jewelry line of necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and more.

Miley loves her short haircut

View the original article here

Chris Brown: Glowing Probation Report, Bad Review From Original Rudeboys

by Natalie Finn and Josh Grossberg Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 4:24 PM PDT

David McNew/Getty Images

Chris Brown received another thumbs-up from the judge who's been monitoring his probation for the last three years.

But he got the proverbial middle finger from the Original Rudeboys, an acoustic hip-hop trio from Ireland that turned down his invitation to open for him when he plays Dublin's O2 Arena on Dec. 3, citing the very reason he's on probation in the first place.

"In addition, with our latest single 'Blue Eyes' being about domestic violence it goes against everything we are about as a band and supporting Chris Brown would send out the wrong message to our fans," ukulele player Sean Walsh told Irish broadcaster RTE.

Chris Brown attends Rihanna's Halloween bash dressed as terrorist with turban, assault rifle

"Even though it's a huge opportunity to play in the 02 with a major hip-hop star and a substantial fee was offered, we are completely against Chris Brown's assault on Rihanna."

So call them conscientious objectors.

Back in Los Angeles, meanwhile, Brown arrived about 15 minutes early for his court date, accompanied by his mother, Joyce Hawkins. (Ex Karrueche Tran, who went to his last hearing in September, did not attend today.)

Rihanna appears to have been crowned queen of West Hollywood on Halloween 

He traded in his Halloween robe, turban, bullets and machete for slacks, a black shirt and gray suspenders and sat himself next to attorney Mark Geragos to get the good news—he's fully in compliance with his probation, according to Judge Patricia Schnegg.

There was no mention of his positive marijuana test in September. Brown told the probation department in his home state of Virginia, where he completed his court-ordered community service, that he had ingested the drug in California, where he has a medical marijuana card.

"You are not only in the public eye but you are on probation to me," Schnegg told the F.A.M.E. artist at the time. "You are on probation for five years and you still have a couple left. Your conduct is important."

Unlike the Original Rudeboys, Rihanna can still stomach Chris Brown

But today, the judge just told Brown to make sure to meet with his probation officer when he returns from an upcoming trip to Denmark and Trinidad in advance of his next progress-report hearing, scheduled for Jan. 17.

At one point, Brown attempted to address the court and Geragos turned to him and said, "You don't talk. I don't dance, you don't talk."

That arrangement does seem to have worked out for him so far.

Brown was sentenced in August 2009 to five years of probation, 180 days of community labor and a year of domestic-violence counseling after pleading guilty to assaulting Rihanna after a pre-Grammys party that February.

—Reporting by Baker Machado

Chris Brown wasn't alone in his wacky Halloween wear: Check out more crazy celeb costumes

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Mitt Romney's Latest Celebrity Endorsement: The Simpsons' Mr. Burns!

by Natalie Finn Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 8:50 PM PDT

Mitt Romney's chances to win the 2012 presidential election just went from good to "excellent."

While Homer Simpson may have some regrets about voting for the Republican nominee, what with having been outsourced to China and all, the barely beating heart of Springfield's 1 percent is adamantly throwing his weight (what there is of it, anyway) behind Romney.

"I have to say that, despite those unimaginably horrible good job numbers, we're feeling pretty confident," C. Montgomery Burns says in a new "ad" endorsing Romney over President Barack Obama. 

15 movies about elections: Which gets your vote?

"There's only one thing that might deny us the presidency that is the God-given property of the Republican party," he continues. 

"The 47 percent tape?" a probably pretty bummed Mr. Smithers asks. "The empty chair? Cayman Islands? Swiss bank accounts?" The list goes on.

"No, no, no and no. It's a shaggy-dog story about an actual shaggy dog," Mr. Burns insists.

The indestructible old coot is referring to the infamous dog-strapped-to-the-roof-of-Romney's-car story, which he proceeds to debunk in truly Burnsian fashion.

Release the hound!

Aside from Mr. Burns, here are some more red-hot Republicans

View the original article here

2012 CMA Awards Best & Worst: Taylor Swift Kennedy Jokes, Miranda & Blake, Winners & More

by Natalie Finn Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 8:00 PM PDT

The 46th Annual Country Music Association Awards was the usual blend of all-star concert event, glitzy red carpet affair and tight-knit family potluck.

Hosted yet again by Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley (or Ma and Pa of the CMAs, at this point), the Nashville-based country music kudosfest was jam-packed with tunes and good vibes from start to finish.

But while there were plenty of laughs, it's not like three hours could go by without some awkward moments. We're taking the liberty of chronicling the most memorable bits, for better or worse, in addition to offering up the complete list of winners, as they're announced. Here's what's goin' down:

Tonight Jason Aldean and his wife's first big night out since his extramarital-smooch scandal

Country-Strong Opening Act: As he launched into "The Only Way I Know," Jason Aldean kicked off the show by dedicating the 2012 CMA Awards to New York, New Jersey and "all our friends on the East Coast" affected by the massive storm that battered the area this week. And because the only thing better than one country superstar jamming is more of the same, he was promptly joined onstage by current heartthrobs Luke Bryan and Eric Church, the latter the night's leading nominee, with five.

Most Awkward Monologue Joke: While discussing all the big sports trades (Tim Tebow to the Jets, Peyton Manning to the Broncos, etc.) Paisley joked that the biggest shuffle was the Kennedy family trading Arnold Schwarzenegger for Taylor Swift. "What?! Why don't I ever hear about these things? I'm the last one to know!" protested a mock-mortified Paisley after Underwood informed him that Swift and Conor Kennedy had broken up. Cue the too-long play on "We Are Never, Ever Getting Back Together."

Biggest Missed Opportunity: The camera didn't pan to Swift to see her reaction! Boo!

Most Laborious Joke: The hosts assembled a bunch of hot nurses and a rather elderly doctor to "induce" Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles, whose first child is due in about three weeks. No one feared for Nettles' safety, but...it was a little creepy.

See the complete list of nominees for the 2012 CMA Awards

Most Emotional Moment: Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton shared the songwriters' Song of the Year honor for "Over You." "I lost my brother in a car wreck when I was 14 years old and, later in life, when I decided I wanted to be a country singer, my dad always told me, 'Son, you should write a song about your brother,'" Shelton said as Lambert teared up beside him. "I lost my dad in January and it's so amazing to to me that, tonight, even after he's gone, he's still right! I just needed the right person to write this song with, and the right person to sing it." He said, turning to his wife, "I love you so much, baby."  

Most Randomly Charming Moment: Paisley picking the theme song to The Andy Griffith Show on his guitar in tribute to the late actor, who died this year.

Kenny Chesney and Toby Keith were early CMA Award winners this year!

Sweet Mama-Bear Moment: Underwood took great pride in introducing the first-ever CMA Awards performance from her tour mate, 21-year-old Hunter Hayes. The fresh-faced hottie, also tonight's winner for New Artist of the Year, sang "Wanted"—and the screaming gals in the audience returned the favor. (Too bad he forgot to thank Underwood in his speech, oops.)

Most Gracious Speech: In accepting for Female Vocalist of the Year, Lambert gave an individualized shout-out to every gal she beat out to win: For Swift: "I've been listening to Red all week, it's freakin' awesome." For Underwood: "At rehearsal, I heard her sing 'Blown Away' three times, and it blew me away." For Kelly Clarkson: "I sang with her in Colorado and I just wanted to crawl into a hole and die." For Martina McBride: "I grew up with her records and to try to even hit one note that she ever sang, it's impossible."

Best Shout-Out to Jesus: Little Big Town really went to town in thanking the Lord for their Vocal Group of the Year Award. 

Who was best-dressed at the 2012 CMA Awards?

Bestest Best of the Night: The music, as always! From Aldean, Church and Bryan's opening number to Lambert's fiery "Fastest Girl in Town" to Zac Brown Band's tearjerker rendition of "I Saw Goodbye in Her Eyes" to the Band Perry's foot-stomping "Better Dig Two," it's hard to beat a country show for consistency of performance quality throughout. Paisley's "Southern Comfort Zone," backed by a massive gospel choir, was also pretty awesome, not least because he started with a few acoustic bars of "Empire State of Mind," another nod to the devastation back East.

Best Tribute: Well, there was really only one, to Willie Nelson, receipient of the inaugural Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. But it would have been the best, no matter what. While Lady Antebellum did a find job with "You Were Always on My Mind" and Blake Shelton, Keith Urban and Mickey Raphael, you couldn't really top Nelson warbling "On the Road Again." Better yet: His acceptance was short and sweet. "This is a great award and I appreciate it very much. Thank you, CMA. Thank you, Nashville. I love all of you out there, thank you, I appreciate it."

Best Double-Take: Blake Shelton, when he was named Entertainer of the Year. Even his wife gave him a "so what are you waitin' for?!" wide-eyed look as he just sat there after his name was called. "You can tell this time I really didn't think I was gonna win...I'm still Willie'd out here!" he exclaimed.

Guess what Jake Owen and his wife are going to name their baby girl when she gets here?!

Here's the complete list of winners from the 46th Annual CMA Awards:

Entertainer of the Year: Blake Shelton
Album of the Year: Chief, Eric Church
Female Vocalist of the Year: Miranda Lambert
Male Vocalist of the Year: Blake Shelton
Vocal Group of the Year: Little Big Town
Single of the Year: "Pontoon," Little Big Town
Song of the Year: "Over You," Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert (songwriters)
Musical Event of the Year: "Feel Like a Rock Star," Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw
Musician of the Year: Mac McAnally
Music Video of the Year: "Red Solo Cup," Toby Keith
New Artist of the Year: Hunter Hayes

(Originally published Nov. 1, 2012, at 6:20 p.m. PT)

2012 CMA Awards: See all of tonight's red carpet arrivals

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Suicide Silence Singer Mitch Lucker Dies After Motorcycle Accident

by Bruna Nessif Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 4:01 PM PDT

Chiaki Nozu/WireImage

It's a sad day for metal music fans. 

Suicide Silence's lead singer Mitch Lucker was pronounced dead this morning following a severe motorcycle accident last night in Huntington Beach, Calif., E! News confirms. 

He was 28 years old. 

Bill Dees dead at 73

According to the Huntington Beach Police Department's press release, Lucker lost control of his black 2013 Harley Davidson and collided into a light pole at 8:55 p.m., which ejected him from his motorcycle. 

His Harley continued going down the street and hit a black 2007 Nissan Titan pickup truck. The occupants of the truck and nearby trick-or-treaters were not injured. Unfortunately, the same could not be said for Lucker.

The rocker sustained severe injuries and was treated on scene by Huntington Beach Fire Department paramedics, who transported him to the UCI Medical Center, where he later died.

Bring It On star Natina Reed dead at 32

Whether or not alcohol was a fact has yet to be determined. Police are still investigating the matter. 

"There's no easy way to say this. R.I.P. Mitchell Adam Lucker - We Love You Brother," the band's Twitter page tweeted. "There will be a candlelight vigil held for Mitch tonight at 8pm in Huntington Beach at Main St. & 12th. Open to all."

The last known photo of Lucker is an Instagram shot that he tweeted yesterday of his Day of the Dead costume, where he says, "The dead are living..."

Remember our fallen stars of 2012

View the original article here

Robert Pattinson in Italian Vogue: Leather, Studs and Spikes, Oh My!

by Natalie Finn Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 9:30 PM PDT

Caitlin Cronenberg/L'Uomo Vogue

Robert Pattinson's latest look isn't for the faint of heart.

With Breaking Dawn: Part 2 on the horizon, the Twilight heartthrob donned a fierce Volturi-meets-Matrix-meets-David-Bowie leather trench coat by Lanvin, its lapels studded with golden spikes, for the cover of L'Uomo Vogue's November issue.

It's a far cry from Pattinson's striped polo shirt and backwards baseball cap, that's for sure.

Rob & Kristen's Halloween looks were decidedly creepy

While is cover look is more wind-tousled, the inside pages feature Pattinson's famous hair gelled into an impressive pompadour. 

The rings are by Lazaro and his other accessories are Gasoline Glamour.

Caitlin Cronenberg/L'Uomo Vogue

And though Pattinson is making our knees a bit weak with his mournful gaze, it's possible he really is wounded. Like, from accidentally stabbing himself with one of his lapel spikes.

The smoldering R.Pattz issue hits newsstands Nov. 5.

Imagine running your fingers through Rob's hair as it's evolved over the years 

View the original article here

Robert Pattinson Recalls Meeting Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner: "I Was Starstruck"

by John Boone Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 5:21 PM PDT

Steve Granitz/WireImage.com

It's hard to imagine Robert Pattinson not knowing Taylor Lautner. And it's even harder imagining a world where R.Pattz and Kristen Stewart aren't the super couple they are now. Which were both the case before Twilight brought the trio together in 2008.

"I remember meeting Kristen, for sure," Taylor recalled at today's press conference for the final film, Breaking Dawn Part 2. "It's so weird, I don't even remember meeting Rob."

"I can't remember meeting him either!" Rob quipped when he was later informed of Taylor's confession. "When did I meet Taylor? I met him on the movie, I think. He was wearing his wig and stuff. I met Kristen at the audition."

Read what Bella Swan herself had to say about the final scene in BD2!

Robert was then asked what his first impression of his costars were and whether those initial thoughts have held up all these years later: "It reminded me a little bit—even with Taylor, who was 15 when I met him—of when I did Harry Potter, looking at Dan [Radcliffe], Rupert [Grint] and Emma [Watson] and being like, 'Those guys are actors!' I was starstruck by them.

"And I was starstruck by those guys when I met them even though I'd only seen Kristen in a few things," R.Pattz continued. "It's funny to see people get humanized. Because with Dan, Rupert and Emma, I still see them as like massively famous people. It's strange to have gone through the same experience with Taylor and Kristen as well."

Whether those first impressions held up, Rob seems proud of the people his costars have become. "It's massive and to see people retain their sanity, as much as possible," he said of dealing with the Twilight phenomenon. "I've seen a lot of other people have minor amounts of fame and just lose their mind completely—like after a casting announcement. It's amazing to see that people manage to maintain."

Who are the best Twilight baddies...and who are the worst? Sound off now!

As for Taylor's aforementioned memory of meeting Kristen, he remembered, "It actually probably was a little awkward when we first did meet each other. We were filming the scene on the beach, the weather was insane, pouring rain and wind, and I was wearing a nasty wig. It was just very uncomfortable. But ever since then, it's been great."

Since the two were already reminiscing about the past, they were both asked what advice they would give their younger selves. Taylor said he'd remind himself to really soak in the whole experience, while Robert had this to say:

"Start drinking vodka instead of beer," he joked. "And try to get a six-pack as early as possible and you'll be a much more successful actor."

Twilight goes global! Check out where the cast has gone on their BD2 press tour!

View the original article here

Sandy Relief: ABC's "Day of Giving" Will Include Dancing With the Stars, Jimmy Kimmel and More

by Tierney Bricker Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 3:44 PM PDT

ABC/JEFF NEIRA

ABC is giving back.

The network announced today that Monday, Nov. 5, will be a "Day of Giving" across the network, which will encourage their viewers to help those impacted by Hurricane Sandy.

ABC's programming, ranging from Good Morning America in the morning to Dancing With the Stars in the evening, will engage viewers with the relief efforts.

Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon score audiences despite Hurricane Sandy

While Dancing With the Stars is planning to personalize sections of Monday night's performance show with "Day of Giving" messaging (by including stories of how several of the show's dancers were impacted by the storm), Good Morning America will kick off the "Day of Giving" by dedicating the 8 a.m. hour to raising money, followed by Live with Kelly and Michael, which will integrate the message into their Halloween episode. (It was postponed due to the storm.)

Next, The View's ladies and The Chew will discuss the "Day of Giving" and encourage the audience to donate to the American Red Cross Relief efforts. Katie Couric will engage Katie viewers in the relief efforts as well.

Rounding out the "Day of Giving" will be Nightline, which will devote time to the message and the impact of Hurricane Sandy, and Jimmy Kimmel Live, which will encourage viewers to give to the Red Cross.

Check out Jimmy Kimmel's interview with David Letterman

"The effects of Hurricane Sandy have impacted millions of people across the entire North East, including many of our co-workers, friends and families. This unprecedented devastation demanded an unprecedented response, so our team came up with the 'Day of Giving," Anne Sweeney, co-chair, Disney Media Networks and president, Disney-ABC Television Group, said in a statement. "This coordinated effort between network and syndicated programming spanning News, Daytime, Primetime and Late-Night will reach tens of millions of viewers with a specific call to action…to do what Americans do best, and pull together in support of those who are suffering. I'm incredibly proud of the team and all of our programs for this amazing response."

Earlier in the day, ABC announced that it will donate $2 million to Hurricane Sandy relief and rebuilding efforts. ABC will donate $1 million to the American Red Cross for immediate, critical assistance, and another $1 million will be designated for organizations working on rebuilding efforts.

Would you like to help? Text REDCROSS to 90999 ($10 donation) or visit http://redcross.org 

The East Coast needs deep-pocketed do-gooders like these folks right now

View the original article here

Paulina Rubio Sued for Allegedly Assaulting Former Assistant

by Bruna Nessif Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 5:46 PM PDT

Rodrigo Varela/Getty Images

Sometimes stars have certain demands, and if they're not met, then (in this case) you allegedly get beat up.

The former personal assistant for Mexican singer Paulina Rubio served the star with a $250,000 assault and battery lawsuit, claiming the star beat him up after he booked her a last-minute flight in coach. 

We're not joking. 

View the court documents

According to the court documents filed by Felipe Restrapo Betancur, the event took place "on or about" Oct. 28, when Rubio arrived late for a flight from Miami to Mexico. Betancur made arrangements so she could fly out on the next plane to Mexico, so she wouldn't be late for her appearance. But there was a problem. 

There were no first class seats available, so Rubio had to endure sitting in coach—gasp!

The lawsuit claims the singer "struck the Plaintiff with her fists, and verbally abused Plaintiff calling him names." It also states that throughout the weekend in Mexico together, Rubio "punched, slapped and kicked Plaintiff causing him abrasions and contusions on his shins and arms."

As you might have expected, Betancur quit once they arrived back in Miami. 

Celebs make court appearances, too

View the original article here

Country Singer Jake Owen and Wife Reveal Their Baby's Name

by Bruna Nessif Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 4:48 PM PDT

ABC/SARA KAUSS

Country crooner Jake Owen and his wife Lacey Buchannan are gearing up for parenthood!

The couple, who announced that they were expecting a baby girl in July, told E! News during the Country Music Awards' red carpet today that they're expecting the little princess' arrival in about three weeks, and even spilled on the name they chose for her!

It's pretty precious.

Jake Owens and Lacey Buchannan marry!

Owens and his lady have decided to name their first child, Pearl.

No, this isn't some trend that seems to be happening. The singer shared that Pearl was the name of his best friend who passed away, and that's why they chose it. 

Owens and Buchannan married in May with a beachside ceremony. "A best friend for life. I now have a wifey :)" he tweeted. "My face hurts from smiling," Owen added. "What a wonderful way to start the rest of my life."

—Reporting by Kristina Guerrero

See pics of country's biggest stars at the 2012 CMA Awards

View the original article here

Jersey Shore Recap: Deena's Drunken Downward Spiral

by Bruna Nessif Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 8:36 PM PDT

Thelonius / Splash News

Before the shenanigans began, Vinny did a promo spot, addressing the havoc Sandy has done to Seaside Heights, N.J., and urged viewers to donate to the Red Cross Relief Effort. That was nice.

And then it was back to the Jersey Shore. 

Roger did not break up with JWoww (and we now know what happened with their relationship), but Mike's future with Paula was iffy, because he was already worried about whether or not he would be able to "stick it out." 

All he could talk about was how she keeps tabs on him more now and that she needed "sprucing up" (sigh), and just then, Paula showed up at the Shore Store. Oh, hello. 

JWoww's fiancé Roger Mathews helps save Sandy victims on his jet ski

Poor girl, the second she left, everyone made a betting pool as to when Mike was going to call it quits. 

And then it was time for the Prank War Champions to strike again. Vinny and Pauly D decided to pull a fast one on Deena while she was out, so they took the lovey-dovey photos of her and Chris out of her frames and replaced them with equally lovey-dovey pictures of themselves that they took on the boardwalk. It was pretty hilarious and we think that experience took their bromance to another level. 

That night, the whole crew went out to Karma, and Mike seemed to had forgotten he had a girlfriend. No worries, though. Paula clearly had spies out, because he got approached multiple times by her friends. Nice try, Sitch. But he didn't let it get too far, just a little dancing grinding. 

Snooki slams rumors of her splitting up with Jionni

Snooki cooked dinner for Jionni without burning the house down (it was a close call, though), and he actually liked it! She didn't believe him for the longest, but he was being genuine, and the duo had a really cute little homemade dinner date together. 

Deena decided to have another meatball day, regardless of her recent arrest, and when she returned to the house, her mother called to see what was up with her. Not good. Not good at all. After a bunch of yelling, Deena's mother said to pack her bags because she was coming to get her. 

And then it looked like Deena wasn't leaving and she said she didn't want to, but then she called her mom again and ended up saying she did want to leave. And then she called Chris and also asked him to pick her up, but he couldn't. 

All very confusing. Did we mention Deena was super, super wasted?

So, if you're wondering whether she stayed at the house or went home, you're in the same boat as us, because no answers were given tonight. 

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Britney Spears Case Dismissed: Judge Rejects Sam Lutfi's Entire Lawsuit

by Natalie Finn and Claudia Rosenbaum Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 4:30 PM PDT

Paul Drinkwater/NBC

Britney Spears' family just scored a major court victory.

A judge has dismissed Sam Lutfi's entire lawsuit against the pop star and her parents, Lynne and Jamie Spears, ruling that his allegations of libel, breach of contract and battery just don't hold water.

"I really thought long and hard," said Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Suzanne Brugera in announcing her decision, "so the motions are granted...as to all the defendants and all the causes of action. That is the right thing to do, so I am going to do it."

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Jamie and Lynne filed a motion yesterday to have Lutfi's battery and breach-of-contract claims thrown out, arguing that Britney's self-proclaimed ex-manager never suffered any injury during a purported altercation with Jamie back in 2008, and that no legal contract was in place that had entitled Lutfi to the back salary he claimed Britney owed him.

"It was not a planned event," attorney Michael Aiken told the judge at today's hearing, referring to Jamie making contact with Lutfi on the morning on Jan. 29, 2008, after Britney had an emotional episode that attracted a bunch of media attention the previous night. "It was purely an incident that occurred on the spur of the moment. Whether we call it a punch or a poke, the fact of the matter is, he wasn't hurt. There was no preplanned event."

"Lufi said [he] was going to be fine and how can you award damages to someone who said he was fine?" argued Aiken.

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Lutfi's attorney counterargued that, just because someone didn't suffer broken bones or call the police, that doesn't mean he wasn't harmed.

"I think if there is a touching, that is the tort and the jury could assess damages as they wish," said lawyer Joseph Schleimer, saying the injury comes from the immediate physical pain and the hurt feelings.

Britney's attorney, Joel Boxer, then launched into the breach-of-contract claim, saying there was no contract and, even if there had been, Britney was feeling pressured and would have been under "undue influence" from Lutfi to agree to something.

Lutfi claimed he felt "suicidal" after reading Lynne Spears' book

Schleimer countered, stating that Britney still had others in her life, such as business manager Howard Grossman, to advise her on financial matters, and that his client was never properly compensated for the work he did for Britney.

"Twenty-four hours a day with Britney Spears, I think, is very challenging," Schleimer said. "Twenty-four hours a day is a tough job."

"Clearly this was a contract by stealth if it was a contract at all," Boxer said.

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As for the libel claim over Lynne Spears' 2008 memoir, Through the Storm, in which she accused Lutfi of manipulating her daughter in a chapter titled "The General," Lynne's attorney argued that there was a complete absence of malice on her part.

If Lynne believed what she had been told—that Lutfi had ground up pills to medicate Britney without her knowledge, unplugged her phone, hid her dog, etc.—then she was not guilty of having reckless disregard for the truth, argued attorney Stephen Rohde. (Lutfi denied doing these things and telling Lynne he had done them.)

Lynne "stuck to her guns" and never wavered on the witness stand, Rohde said.

How did Britney "change" following her breakup with Justin Timberlake?

"I am going to appeal," Lutfi told reporters as he headed for the elevator outside the courtroom.

All parties are due back in court tomorrow, when the jury will officially be informed that the case has been dismissed.

The trial lasted for eight days and kicked off with a number of Lutfi-provided bombshells about Britney's troubles during the time in question, following her divorce from Kevin Federline and before her father became a conservator of her estate.

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George Lucas Donating Disney Billions to Fund Education

by Bruna Nessif Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 9:12 PM PDT

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

Talk about being generous. 

In case you missed the news, George Lucas came up on $4 billion recently when Disney decided to purchase his company Lucasfilm, and the Star Wars filmmaker already knows where he's going to put all that money.

It's not his pocket. 

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Lucas will donate most of the funds to a foundation that will primarily focus on educational issues, according to The Hollywood Reporter. 

"George Lucas has expressed his intention, in the event the deal closes, to donate the majority of the proceeds to his philanthropic endeavors," a spokesperson told THR. 

"For 41 years, the majority of my time and money has been put into the company," Lucas said in a statement Wednesday. "As I start a new chapter in my life, it is gratifying that I have the opportunity to devote more time and resources to philanthropy."

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There's no word yet as to what specific foundation Lucas has chosen, but it's possible that it could be Edutopia, which is part of the George Lucas Educational Foundation, and he is currently the chairman. 

In 2010, Lucas said to the Giving Pledge, "I am dedicating the majority of my wealth to improving education. It is the key to the survival of the human race. We have to plan for our collective future—and the first step begins with social, emotional and intellectual tools we provide to our children. As humans, our greatest tool for survival is our ability to think and to adapt—as educators, storytellers and communicators, our responsibility is to continue to do so."

Way to keep your word, Georgie.

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Heidi Klum Goes Makeup-Free for Children's Charity—See the Pic

by Brett Malec Thu., Nov. 1, 2012 3:52 PM PDT

Courtesy: BBC Children In Need 'BearFacedDay'

We're used to seeing Heidi Klum decked out in costume around Halloween time, not makeup-free!

The hot model mama is ditching the cosmetics and going au naturel for Children in Need, a British fundraising initiative that encourages women to show off their natural beauty on Nov. 9 to raise money for disadvantaged youth.

Heidi Klum's wildest Halloween costumes!

And we must say, the 39-year-old has never looked better!

In her stunning campaign photo, Klum appears bare-faced with her hair pulled back and a tiny black bear paw print on her left cheek.

Stars without makeup

According to Us Weekly, the mother of four dished, "I am so proud to be taking part in this year's BBC Children in Need BearFaced campaign. Having worked in the fashion industry for a number of years, I am a firm believer of encouraging women's empowerment. And what better way to do so than [by] supporting such a fantastic charity."

What do you think of Klum's cosmetic-free look? Sound off below!

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