American Pie Co-star Busted For DUI

Natasha Lyonne, co-star of such teen films as Detroit Rock City and the American Pie series, was arrested in Miami in the wee hours of Tuesday morning on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, careless driving and leaving the scene of an accident. Reuters quoting police reports that the 22-year-old went around a corner too fast and skidded off the road, hitting some bushes and a traffic sign, then backed up and drove away. The arresting officer claims that when he pulled her over, she said: "I'm a movie star. Can I talk to my entertainment lawyer?" There were no injuries in the accident and Lyonne was released later in the day on $2,000 bail.

De Niro Snubs Wacko Jacko

Legendary actor Robert De Niro refused to star in Michael Jackson's new video - so the reclusive pop legend hired fellow eccentric Marlon Brando instead. Fading star Jackson, who is 43 today, wanted a high profile star to feature in the promo video for his comeback song You Rock My World, his first release since 1997. After waiting around for an eventual refusal from screen god De Niro, Jacko hired Brando, whose son Miko used to be the eccentric pop star's bodyguard. A producer on the video says, "This will be a video like no other. Michael wants to come back with a bang - and he knows people will expect a great video." In additional promo for his tour and album, Jackson will open trading on the NASDAQ trading floor Thursday.

Uma Thurman Was Worried About Marriage

A pregnant Uma Thurman married actor Ethan Hawke despite her aversion to shotgun weddings. Uma admits she fell in love with Hawke on the set of Gattaca, but at first refused to marry him. She says, "I remeber saying to myself, 'Why can't you just have fun with this young guy? He's sexy; just enjoy that.' And then, sneaky devil, he totally made me fall in love with him. Because he wasn't overly nice to me right away." And after they got engaged Uma fell pregnant. She says, "There I was, seven months' pregnant, and I realized I would have to go to the hospital and give birth to my baby, and I thought about who would be my next of kin. I realized that I wanted Ethan to be. So I demanded to marry him."

Biggs Brush With Israeli Trouble

George Michael is not the only star to holiday in Israel. American Pie star Jason Biggs also vacationed in the troubled country recently. The young actor flew to Tel Aviv, west of the West Bank area where the fighting between the Israeli and Palestinians is centered, with his girlfriend and was near the suicide bombing of a restaurant this summer. He recalls, "We were walking to get an after-dinner drink on Allenby Street and heard this loud bang. It made everything that's happening in Israel real for me."

Statham Loses Starring Role To Rapper

British actor Jason Statham's first starring role in a Hollywood film has ended in humiliation - after he was replaced by rapper Ice Cube. The Snatch star had been hoping to "do a Vinnie Jones" by making the jump from Guy Ritchie's gangster movies to stardom in Tinseltown. Statham was sure he had got the big break he needed when he was sent a script by director John Carpenter. The movie-maker - best known for lensing Halloween and Escape From New York - wanted Statham to play the lead role in his new sci-fi horror pic, Ghosts Of Mars. Jason was set to feature as heroic James "Desolation" Williams, in the big budget chiller opposite sex symbol Natasha Henstridge. But just as cameras were ready to roll, studio bosses financing the film got cold feet and decided that Statham wasn't a big enough star to top the billing and ensure good box office returns. They re-cast the lead role to Ice Cube and relegated Statham to a much smaller part as sidekick cop Jericho Butler. Jason said, "John Carpenter saw me in Lock Stock And Two Smoking Barrels and set up a meeting. He wanted me to play the prisoner the cops have to transport in Ghosts of Mars, but the studio insisted he cast a higher-profile actor."

Movie Helps Reunite Drew And Mom

Drew Barrymore learned a lot from starring in Riding In Cars With Boys - because playing the character brought her so much closer to her estranged mother Jaid. Although their off-and-on antagonism has lasted for many years, the 26-year-old actress admits the role of a single mom forced her to see things from Jaid's viewpoint. Drew says, "I called her when I was in New York working on 'Riding' last fall. I told her what the movie was about, that in some ways I felt like I was playing her, and that it was the most important job of my life." The film is based on the memoir of writer Beverly D'Onofrio, who kicked the father of her child out of the house after he became a junkie. That story echoes Barrymore's mother's experience after she split with John Barrymore Jr., now 69. Drew adds, "She dared to raise a child without a father. My father wasn't around, and when he was, he was drunk and abusive. She protected me from him. I resented the s*** out of my mom, but she stuck it out. She didn't bail on me."

Tom And Nicole Keep It Secret

Secretive Hollywood stars Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman will be no more forthcoming in their divorce settlement than they were about the cause of their split. Lawyers for the couple who announced their split in February have placed gag orders on everyone involved with the case. At stake is a $370 million fortune plus the couple's various homes around the world - including houses in London, Sydney and Los Angeles, an apartment in Manhattan and a ski ranch. At the settlement hearing in October it is likely that Kidman will get their Los Angeles home where she lives with the couple's two adopted children. Cruise is most keen to keep his $32.5 million Gulfstream jet and another plane he uses for acrobatics.

Teary Jolie Returns From Pakistan

Gorgeous Angelina Jolie, goodwill ambassador for the UN refugee agency, wiped tears from her eyes as she described her encounters with Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Angelina returned from Pakistan on Sunday. She had visited the huge refugee camps where hundreds of thousands of Afghan refugees live in poverty. Yesterday she told reporters, "It's still very hard to talk about it. It is the worst situation, I think, because there is no end in sight for the needs of these people. But I was surprised to sit down with these women and their children and talk with them, and they were so kind and warm and funny and generous and hardworking and grateful for any little help they could get, and they are living in a situation I don't think anybody in this room could survive for more than a few days."

Nicole Kidman Watches Russell Crowe's Performance

Nicole Kidman fanned the flames of her reported romance with Russell Crowe in Los Angeles Sunday night by making a rare public appearance to watch his band perform. Kidman has kept a low public profile since her divorce from Hollywood actor Tom Cruise, only stepping into the media spotlight to promote her recently released movies. But last night Nicole didn't seem to mind who saw her and her girlfriends as they sat on the front row of the balcony at the House Of Blues, intently watching Crowe and his band 30 Odd Foot Of Grunts rock their way through a set. Just a few weeks ago, Crowe and Kidman set tongues wagging by vacationing on a remote Fijian island at the same time. A member of the audience says, "She was sat there with her arms resting on the balcony, in the front row the entire time Russell was playing. She wasn't raising attention to herself but certainly wasn't keeping a low profile. She was right there, making sure she didn't miss any of the action."

Shy Antonio

Hollywood hunk Antonio Banderas was terrified about stripping off in his new film Original Sin. The actor stars alongside Angelina Jolie in the steamy thriller, and confesses that the two were terrified about their raunchy love scenes. Antonio explains, "It's kind of embarrassing taking your clothes off. "Angelina and I were having dinner the night before and I asked her, 'are you scared about tomorrow?' We both were." Antonio also confesses to being self conscious about his much lusted after body, having not worked out for the role. He reveals, "I do nothing for this movie. Not physical exercises, nothing. And I'm getting a bit flabby. Soon they'll be saying 'You know, he used to be a Latin lover.'"

Mira Sorvino: Stars Have Sex On Screen

Mira Sorvino has shocked Hollywood by insisting that movie stars really do have sex on film. The Summer Of Sam star - who won an Oscar for her role as a prostitute in Woody Allen movie Mighty Aphrodite - has revealed that some actors don't fake movie sex scenes. But Sorvino refused to disclose which stars go all the way for the cameras. She says, "It rarely happens that actors have proper sex in films. But it does, though - now and again. And other actors tell me that it does."

Engine Failure Blamed For Aaliyah Plane Death

The tragic plane crash that killed R&B sensation Aaliyah is being blamed on engine failure by police. Investigators have searched through the wreckage of the Cessna 402 light plane which crashed about 200 feet from the end of the runway at Marsh Harbor airport, the Bahamas, killing all of the occupants. Although authorities said initially they weren't sure what caused the crash, police Superintendent Basil Rahming says one of the Cessna's engines "apparently failed". Aaliyah recently released her third album, the self-titled Aaliyah, and made her film debut in last year's Romeo Must Die. She was also due to appear in two sequels to the sci-fi thriller The Matrix. The 22-year old singer was returning to America after filming a music video in the Abaco islands, about 170 miles from Florida when the tragic incident happened. She died along with seven other passengers.

Mystery Of Penelope's Ankle Tattoo Solved

The secret behind Penélope Cruz's 883 ankle tattoo is out - it's all to do with the Spanish star's love of numerology. And the hidden meaning behind the mysterious markings on the actress' leg doesn't bode well for her current beau Tom Cruise - they indicate she's more interested in money, success and power than love. Leading numerologist Christine Delorey, who wrote hit book Life Cycles, claims people who have tattoos of numbers are usually fans of numerology - and she's convinced that's the case with Cruz. She says, "In her chart, eight and three pop up as her main numbers in life. Eight stands for money, power and success and three stands for skill in communications and creativity. The second eight is to strengthen the power of the first. Penelope wants to win - she is very aggressive in terms of her career."

Cleese Admits To Plastic Surgery

Comic John Cleese had plastic surgery around his eyes - but that's the only part of his body he would ever consider having done. The Monty Python legend, 61, admits he had work done to make his face look younger, but says he'd only ever have minor surgery - because too many stars have had their looks ruined. He says, "It has quite clearly gone wrong. There is one very well-known Englishman who was left looking like a woman." Cleese, currently promoting his television show The Human Face, adds, "The only thing I think you can have done is your eyes."

Estee Lauder Dumps Liz Hurley

Model-turned-actress Elizabeth Hurley has reached her sell-by date with cosmetics giant Estee Lauder say New York fashion insiders. Hurley is being swapped for curvy supermodel Carolyn Murphy - 10 years her junior - reportedly for falling foul of American acting unions and having links to the Mafia through a boyfriend. Carolyn won the coveted spokesmodel role from actress Gwyneth Paltrow and models Linda Evangelista and Carmen Gass.

Heche Prepares To Say Goodbye To Lesbian Days For Good

Anne Heche, formerly one of Hollywood's most famous lesbians during her multi-year affair with Ellen DeGeneres, has announced her wedding plans to boyfriend Coley Laffoon - and plans to stay heterosexual for the rest of her life. Heche has sent invites for the September 1 wedding and a dinner dance after the event to pals - but she's keeping them guessing about the venue. And friends claim Heche is doing everything possible to prove she's going to be the perfect bride to cameraman Laffoon. One friend says, "Anne's days as a lesbian have been purged from her memory. She has spent most of August running around with copies of bridal magazines, seating plans and photos of wedding cakes. Anne's wedding is a celebration of her re-entry into the world of heterosexuality."

Bullock Steps Out With Jackass Star

Sandra Bullock is getting around - now she's dating shock TV show Jackass' resident host Johnny Knoxville. The actress, who has dated Matthew McConnaughey and Tate Donovan among a string of Hollywood hunks, was recently spotted smooching with Heath Ledger on holiday in Mykonos, Greece. But it seems the ever-fussy actress now has her romantic sights set on Knoxville after she was spotted kissing and cuddling the pin-up at Hollywood's Red Rock bar.

Harrison Ford Gets Dumped

Reports last month that Harrison Ford and estranged wife Melissa Mathison were reconciling in Hawaii seem to have been premature. A spokeswoman for Ford announced Thursday that Mathison had filed for a legal separation in Los Angeles Superior Court. The couple, who split in November after 17 years of marriage, were said to be "friendly" by the spokeswoman who also said Ford would have no further comment on the petition. (This report was compiled by IMDb staff)

Winslet To Replace Ill Ryder?

Kate Winslet, fresh off a significant slimming program, has been asked to take over ailing Winona Ryder's role in a new British film. A stomach bug that landed her in the hospital has forced Ryder out of Lily And The Secret Planting. Movie chiefs have asked Winslet, 25, to take over. Producer Sarah Radcylffe says, "As soon as we heard Winona was too ill to continue we approached Kate's agent. She would be just perfect for the role. We are waiting to hear whether her schedule will allow her to do the film." Winona, 29, flies back to America today.

Penélope Replaces Nicole In Wax Too

British waxwork museum Madame Tussaud's has replaced a waxwork of Nicole Kidman with one of Penélope Cruz for a Tom Cruise exhibit. The landmark company was due to open a Tom And Nicole exhibit next month, but the $56,000 sculpture of Kidman has been put on hold. Tussaud's will use Cruz, 27, instead. A museum spokesman says, "Following her divorce from Tom, Nicole just isn't as much of a priority for us anymore. "It probably seems a bit harsh to just dump Nicole for the time being. But we have to concentrate our resources on Tom and the new lady in his life."

Clooney's Lesbian Tease For Julianna

George Clooney joked that screen love Julianna Margulies had left him for another woman after she took a lesbian role in What's Cooking? Director Gurinder Chadra says she was amazed when the New York actress agreed to take on the unorthodox part so soon after leaving the small screen medical drama. She says, "I was really unsure that she'd be interested. I wanted her to play a lesbian but she'd just finished snogging George Clooney on ER and had turned down $22 million to stay on the series. But she loved the script and agreed to take part. Clooney was apparently telling everyone that Nurse Hathaway had left him for another woman."

Russell's Nightmares

Oscar winner Russell Crowe has been suffering from nightmares since filming his latest movie A Beautiful Mind. Since shooting wrapped, his schizophrenic character of College professor John Forbes Nash Jr. seems to be catching up with Crowe by scaring him at night. Russell explains, "I would wake up in cold sweats, not know where I was, my heart beating like a bunny's."

The Rock's Movie Career Keeps Rolling

After being a draw for The Mummy Returns and getting a $5.5 million payday for starring in its spin off, The Scorpion King, Dwayne Johnson (a.k.a. The Rock) has been signed on for another film and is in consideration for more. According to Variety, The Rock's next film will be Hunting Bronze, an action comedy which will feature him as a bounty hunter. Following that, he's being considered for an untitled pitch being written by Brian Helgeland. Both projects are being shepherded along by Universal Studios, which released The Mummy Returns. (This story was compiled by IMDb staff)

Kid Rock And Pammy Take Healthy Route

Pamela Anderson and fiance Kid Rock showed off their healthy new lifestyle by cycling near their Malibu, California home. And the couple looked very much in love as they travelled to a near-by flea-market. Pamela, who recently split from hellraising husband Tommy Lee is expected to tie the knot with Kid Rock in Las Vegas, Nevada, next month.

Freddie Prinze & Buffy

Actor Freddie Prinze Jr. is madly in love with fiancee Sarah Michelle Gellar - but refuses to set a wedding date. And the 25-year-old star may be full of praise for his fiancee, but will not reveal details of when they plan to tie the knot. The 25-year-old star gushes, "I think Sarah is going to be the biggest movie star in the world. She really is amazing. She is talented and other people would tell you the same thing. I love her." But the actor remains tight-lipped over their wedding, saying, "Even if I was sitting in front of Barbara Walters, I would never in a million years give you that answer. We are engaged. We will be married. You guys will know after it happens."

Walters Nabs Carey

Reuters reports that Barbara Walters has snagged an exclusive interview with Mariah Carey, Carey's first since being released from the hospital following a nervous breakdown. The interview, set to air on September 12, is perfectly timed to promote Mariah's new movie, Glitter, and its soundtrack album. The album releases the day before the airing and the film will release two days after. (This story was compiled by IMDb staff)

Winslet Wins Battle Of The Bulge

Titanic star Kate Winslet has successfully shed over 50 pounds. The 25-year-old, whose figure had sent her into depression, is delighted with her new look. She sought help from a nutritionist who provided her with a personal eating plan to help lose the weight she had gained during pregnancy. The system had immediate results. She says, "The weight absolutely dropped off. My skin's much better. I never feel tired. I just feel great - I've never felt better." She added contentedly, "I don't want to lose any more weight, I'm there now."

Cusack Woos Neve Back

John Cusack has patched up his relationship with girlfriend Neve Campbell at a secret hideaway in the South Pacific. Cusack split with Campbell just months ago, but the pair have repaired their relationship over the last two weeks while secluded in a secret hideaway on a luxury island.

Show Goes On For Grieving Bono

Brave Bono played an emotional concert Tuesday night - hours after his father Bob Hewson, 70, finally succumbed to the cancer that slowly killed him. The singer flew from Dublin, Ireland for the concert at London, England's Earls Court because he did not want to disappoint the 17,000 fans who bought tickets to see supergroup U2. A source close to the band says, "Bono's view is that the show must go on. He is determined not to let anyone down - it's typical of the man. "He was absolutely devastated by his father's death. But he did know it was coming."

Cruise Treats Kids To $140,000 Day Out

Tom Cruise has exhibited his love for his children - by taking them on a $140,000 visit to a water-world theme park. The recently divorced Jerry Maguire star was determined to make the visit to Raging Waters in California the most fun-filled ever. New flame Penelope Cruz came along for the day out. He splashed out $70,000 to hire the entire park for the day, enabling Isabella, eight, and six-year-old Conor to enjoy the day with utmost privacy. He also hired three helicopters to take them to a spot near the park, then a fleet of limos to take them the rest of the way. A witness says, "Tom obviously hadn't spared any expense on taking his kids and Penelope out. There was heavy security to make sure they were completely undisturbed, but they all looked relaxed and happy. They had a great day."

Katie Holmes Stalker Slapped In Nut House

Various news sources report that Ottawa resident Michael Willis, 36, was placed in a mental ward, awaiting evaluation after allegedly making harrassing phone calls to the father of Dawson's Creek star, Katie Holmes. Willis, who shares the honor of being a former Rhodes scholar with Bill Clinton, is said to have called Holmes's father to discuss his "engagement" to 22-year-old Katie. He is also reported to have been harrassing legal counsel for NBC, claiming Tom Brokaw and his news staff were stealing his story ideas. Willis's lawyer is pleading not guilty by reason of insanity and Willis is expected to be held in the Royal Ottowa Hospital for the next month while his case is worked out. (This story was compiled by IMDb staff)

Classic Femme Fatale Disses Madonna

Ex-James Bond girl Honor Blackman says that Madonna is not feminine enough to be considered a femme fatale. The 75-year-old has just finished performing in Dishonourable Ladies, in Cardiff, Wales, which celebrates famous femme fatales, including Greta Garbo, Mae West and Cleopatra. The list does not include the Material Girl. Honor explains, "A femme fatale has to have an air of mystery and there's no mystery to anybody these days. Everybody knows everything about all famous people, down to what type of underwear they wear. I don't find Madonna particularly attractive and don't think of her as a femme fatale. I think of a femme fatale as a more feminine woman."

Winona Ryder Hit By Mystery Bug

Hollywood star Winona Ryder is being treated in a London, England, hospital for a mystery bug and her worried parents of the ailing beauty have flown in from America to be at her side. The 29-year-old, who first felt ill while attending the Planet Of The Apes premiere, was rushed to the hospital while filming Lily And The Secret Planting. Her producer Sarah Radclyffe says, "We are hopeful she will be back on the set within a few days. What matters most is that Winona gets well."

Cage's Epic Task

Nicolas Cage chose Captain Corelli's Mandolin because it gave him the chance to star in an epic. The action superstar, 37, is a veteran of over 40 films, but still feels he has a lot to learn. He says, "I've never been in these sort of large-scope, epic dramatic films and I thought it was time to try to do that. And I think if I take roles like Captain Corelli, where I have to speak in an Italian accent and learn how to play a mandolin and march like an Italian soldier - there's a lot that could go wrong. But maybe, maybe something will go right, and I'll learn."

Milli Vanilli's Shower Power

Disgraced singer Fabrice Morvan of 80s miming duo Milli Vanilli has been attempting a comeback career. The Girl You Know It's True band were chosen by Eurodisco producer Frank Farian to lip-sync to other singers' vocals, until it was later exposed that Fabrice and the late Rob Pilatus - who died of a drug overdose in 1998 - were miming. Now Morvan, 35, is touring America with the Malibu Rum Showerpalooza, a travelling karaoke booth in a shower stall with fake shower sights and sounds. Malibu Rum spokesman Stuart Kirby explains, "We asked ourselves, who in the music community sings but is almost in a position to make fun of themselves? Fabrice immediately popped to mind." The show opened in an Indianapolis, Indiana last Wednesday and will move on to Milwaukee - Wisconsin, Chicago - Illinois and Minneapolis - Minnesota next week.

Gladiator 2?

After wowing audiences with his sword-swinging battles last year, Russell Crowe may be asked to don his sandals once more in a prequel to Gladiator. The producers of the Oscar-winning Roman epic are currently in talks and are keen to bring Russell back for second instalment. Producer Doug Wick says the follow-up is "certainly something being discussed, but there's been no decision made. We're looking at lots of options. Russell has a lot of voltage on screen." The film has raked $452 million worldwide, but Wick insists money is not the motivation for doing another movie. He says, "You don't finally do something like that unless you have a dazzling story to tell. What we certainly won't do is some shadow of the first one to grind out a few bucks."

Jagger No-show At Enigma Premiere

Mick Jagger failed to appear at the premiere of British film Enigma this weekend in Edinburgh, Scotland. The Rolling Stone star co-produced the film, but was nowhere to be seen as it was screened at the Edinburgh Film Festival - he pulled out at the last minute for unknown reasons. And despite the film being publicized as a 'must-see' one of its stars left after only 15 minutes - to a watch a soccer match in a pub. Actor Dougray Scott was more interested in the match involving his beloved team Hibernian Fc and Rangers Fc than the film. At the premiere, Scott confessed, "It's really nice to be here, but I'd rather be at Ibrox [home of Rangers] where the match is being played."

Caruso Forges Along Comeback Trail

Former Nypd Blue star David Caruso is making one last-ditch attempt to crack Hollywood. The actor left the hit show seven years ago to pursue a Hollywood career. But after years of flops and straight to video releases his hope to become a movie star looked doomed. But Caruso, remains positive about his film career after his recent Blockbuster Entertainment Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor (Suspense) in Proof Of Life in which he starred alongside Russell Crowe. He says, "Proof of Life was a minor signal to Hollywood, I hope. "Maybe they won't let me do (exactly) what I like to do, but maybe they'll let me participate." The 45-year-old actor is in the new thriller Session 9 and says he's "feeling pretty good for the first time in a long time."

Pamela Anderson Reveals Sex Secrets

Former Baywatch babe Pamela Anderson revealed her most sensational sex secrets in a sizzling hot TV special. On the stunning Playboy television show pouting Pam admits that she'd love to have sex in public, loves anal sex, had a three-in-a- bed-romp, collects vibrators and adores porn movies. Saturday night the gorgeous actress revealed, "My wildest sexual dream is to have sex in an elevator."

Nicole Kidman's Nose Is Getting Longer

Recently divorced actress Nicole Kidman is making mental and physical transformations for her role as Virginia Woolf - including having to wear a prosthetic nose. The actress is also hiding her trademark auburn hair under a dull grey wig, but she's more than happy with the less than flattering transformation. In fact, once she's finished this movie, she's looking forward to a more permanent transformation. She says, "I'm totally comfortable with my nose. It's right for me and for the character - part of finding and helping to convey the essence of Virginia, but it's not a big issue. I keep forgetting about it. And all my hair's going to come off. Right now I've just shoved it up under my grey. I must be the only actress actually asking for grey. But after this movie it's getting the chop - it's gone."

Electra's Red Hot Proposal

Former Baywatch beauty Carmen Electra is to marry her boyfriend Dave Navarro. The Scary Movie actress, 29, accepted the former Red Hot Chili Pepper guitarist's proposal earlier this month. Navarro will be the second man the busty blond has married, previously she was hitched to basketball player Dennis Rodman for five months, which ended in 1999.

Sean Penn Sparks Off Early Oscar Buzz

American actor Sean Penn is already being tipped as a strong Oscar candidate for his role as a retarded man fighting to keep custody of his child. In the forthcoming movie I Am Sam, the tough-guy star improvised throughout his performance, urged on by director Jessie Nelson - which left the cast and crew deeply touched. Penn's co-star Loretta Devine says, "Oh my God, it's just heart- wrenching. People would be crying on the set. Sean is just amazing in it." I Am Sam also features Michelle Pfeiffer, who play's Penn's attorney.

Just Jack... To The Rescue

Various wire services are reporting that Will & Grace star Sean Hayes has played a real life heroic role. The Emmy-winning actor, while driving through a residential district of Los Angeles, spotted a man lying on the sidewalk who had apparently been shot in the leg in a robbery attempt. Rather than drive on by, Hayes pulled over, took off his shirt and used it to apply pressure to the man's wound while he called 911 on his cellular phone, then waited with the man for the paramedics to arrive. Police cannot confirm Hayes's presence at the scene and claimed the original 911 call came from a woman, but Hayes and his publicist stick by the story. (This report was compiled by IMDb staff)

Sex And The City Sparks New Drink Craze

Sex And The City's Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Cattrall have sparked a new drink craze across America - after an emotional season finale on Sunday evening. In the surprising episode, Parker's character Carrie accepts a marriage proposal, and she and Cattrall's character Samantha get together for a celebratory cocktail. But rather than going for the usual cosmopolitan cocktail, brazen Samantha leans across the bar and demands "two rubies". Ever since the episode, America's cosmopolitan drinkers have been making the switch - to the red cocktail made of rhubarb-infused Finlandia, cane syrup and fresh lime. One Los Angeles barman says, "It's only been two days since the show but the demand has been amazing. We've had to put in extra orders for Finlandia vodka. It's so funny how much power a show can have. All the ladies have been loyally drinking cosmos, but the tide is turning."

Brad Pitt Makes A Jackass of Himself

Brad Pitt's making a real Jackass of himself - appearing in a second episode of the hit MTV series. Last week Pitt shocked viewers of the television show by appearing dressed in a full ape costume, go-carting down the streets of Los Angeles. But this week Pitt is set to stun his loyal fans by taking part in an unamusing fake kidnapping episode. Unwitting bystanders were visibly shocked and panicked as they watched Pitt - who was in on the prank - be snatched by a group of burly men and pulled into a black truck. Pitt's terrifyingly real screams caused one member of the public to try and jump in after him, and another to chase the truck down the street. One viewer says, "It was taking things a bit too far I think. People who witness that kind of violent crime get scarred by it, even if they find out later that it was a prank."

Madonna Gets Sued

A furious American businessman is threatening to sue Madonna - for being manhandled to the ground by her bouncer. Wealthy Robert Agostinelle says he was pushed to the ground as he returned to London Claridge's Hotel, where the queen of pop had rented a $3,120-a-night luxury suite for the British leg of her current tour, because the muscle men thought he was a stalker. A pal says, "Bob is the wrong man to mess with because he has a lot of money and doesn't like being treated like scum. He is not the sort of guy who is going to be overawed by Madonna. He is still spitting blood and wants to make sure he causes as much trouble as possible." Agonistelle, whose $2,600 suit was ruined in the tussle, is determined to show Madonna she and her security team are not above the law.

Cruise And Cruz Together At Film Premiere

Tom Cruise showed his affection for new love Penelope Cruz by accompanying her to the American premiere of Captain Corelli's Mandolin. In July the Spanish stunner's manager confirmed Penelope and Tom Were a couple, just a week after the actress had denied the rumors. The actor's divorce from Nicole Kidman became final last week. Tom and his sizzling girlfriend clasped hands on the red carpet, clearly illustrating their commitment. Cruz' co-star Nicolas Cage attended the screening with new love Lisa Marie Presley, following his spilt from gorgeous wife Patricia Arquette.

Calista And Camryn's Mothers Meetings

Actresses Camryn Manheim and Calista Flockhart new babies have enriched their social life - the pair organize playdates together. The curvaceous The Practice star has joined up with the skinny Ally McBeal actress to discuss diapers and babyfood, while their two children play together. Both beauties work for David E. Kelley, who produces their hit shows, and have been taking time out of filming to spend time with Camryn's five-month-old Milo and Calista's seven-month-old Liam.

Wedding Bells For J.lo

Jennifer Lopez is set to marry boyfriend Cris Judd later this year. Jen has already sent out invitations for an engagement part on Saturday, and friends say she and her dancer boyfriend plan to tie the knot this autumn. Lopez met Judd - a dancer/choreographer - while working on her Love Don't Cost A Thing video last year. In June, she said, "I feel I've found my soul mate in Cris."

Vaughn Livid As Guy Gives Madge The Lead Role

Director Guy Ritchie's film partner Matthew Vaughn is fuming because Guy cast wife Madonna as the lead in their next film - instead of Penelope Cruz. Vaughn, Guy's best friend, was convinced stunning Penelope would be perfect for their low-budget film set on a Mediterranean island, in which Madonna will play a wealthy woman who falls for a penniless sailor. A friend says, "Matthew and Guy disagree all the time over casting, but this one has particularly got to Matthew because he feels Guy may have let his heart rule his head." Guy reportedly wrote the part with Madonna in mind, but producer Matthew saw Penelope as more bankable at the box office. He adds, "Things got a bit tense because Guy thought Matthew was doubting Madonna's acting talents - but really he was just being practical."

Stars Get Russian In Central Park

Director Mike Nichols has tapped a number of top Hollywood stars to help him stage a performance of Anton Chekhov's The Seagull in New York's Central Park as part of the summer Shakespeare In The Park dramatic program. With a new translation of the Russian classic from Tom Stoppard, Nichols lined up Meryl Streep (who also conceived the project), Natalie Portman, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Kevin Kline, John Goodman, Marcia Gay Harden, and Christopher Walken in a production that's getting solid reviews for the acting and for the unusually witty script. U.S.A. Today reviewer Elysa Gardner, in giving it three out of four stars, said Nichols brought together a cast that was not only well-respected, but "perfect for the roles they play," and called it "the most consistently entertaining presentation of Chekhov, I've seen." (This story was prepared by IMDb staff.)

David Duchovny's Bad Bathroom Behavior

David Duchovny and Shaquille O'Neal have been nailed by American comedian Garry Shandling - for their bad bathroom decorum. Shandling has shared urinal facilities with both stars, and admits his toilet experiences with them have been far from pleasurable. He explains, "Duchovny was waiting behind me at the urinal with his pants already down - a big non-no, even in Hollywood. And at Staples Center, 7-foot-1 O'Neal was next to me at the urinal and missed everything. But he's very strong in close."

Seann William Scott's Sex Education

Actor Seann William Scott had the worst case of sex education - when he heard his parents making love upstairs. The American Pie 2 actor remembers the day vividly and hopes he never comes across any further evidence that his parents still have a sexually active life. He says, "If I saw my dad even look at porno it'd be over with our relationship. I'd either have a heart attack or throw up. I remember one time my mom and dad were hanging out and they were like, 'Why don't you go over to Matt's house and play basketball?' I was like, 'I just played an hour ago'. They said I should go back and play again. So I went downstairs and was like, I don't want to play basketball. I turned on the TV to watch some Price is Right and I freaking heard the bed bang and everything. I ran out of the house like Forest Gump."

Catherine Upset Over 'Poor Childhood' Stories

Catherine Zeta-Jones can handle negative press reports about herself - except those that insult her family by saying she had an impoverished childhood. Much has been made of how the Welsh beauty married millionaire actor Michael Douglas and made good, but she came from a fairly wealthy background - and wants to set the record straight. "I know it's a wonderful story to write about, the girl from Wales who made good, but that's not the way it is!" Catherine frowns. "I got really upset when I read stories that I had no shoes when I was a kid and had to go round the country begging for cake because my parents were so poor. My parents have a lovely house that I was brought up in, that they worked very hard to get, and I was fed three times a day."

Death Threats Plague Buffy's Sarah

Buffy The Vampire Slayer star Sarah Michelle Gellar is living in fear following a string of death threats. The actress has received notes written in blood, prompting her to surround herself with bodyguards. Sarah says, "I won't feel safe until he is behind bars." She has been targeted at the home she shares with fiance Freddie Prinze Jr. A police spokesman says, "The threats are being taken seriously. We're trying to discover where they are coming from. Sarah gets thousands of letters every week from fans who beg her for dates, but recently a couple contained death threats. Their author claims in the letters that Sarah has been ignoring him." Sarah's spokeswoman adds, "We don't want to talk about this - but there are some weird people out there."

Sheen Shows Ben The Way To Sobriety

Troubled star Ben Affleck has been getting help in his attempt to beat the bottle - from reformed alcoholic Charlie Sheen. Sheen came to the rescue, getting Ben admitted to the exclusive Promises clinic and even driving him there according to E!Online, after hearing about his plight from Hollywood friends. Affleck entered the center nine days ago and is being treated for alcohol abuse after a spell of heavy drinking and gambling. A friend of Sheen, says of his involvement, "Charlie knows exactly what Ben is going through and was only too happy to help out. It's a tough road ahead."

Paltrow Gets Therapy

Hollywood actress Gwyneth Paltrow has resorted to therapy to try and help her get over her past losses and relationship break-ups. Speaking in next month's W Magazine, Paltrow admits her trips to the psychologist are part of an ongoing process to sort herself out, and has decided she will no longer talk about her past mistakes such as her relationship with Brad Pitt. Editor Julie Belcove explains, "When she's in town she goes for concentrated bursts (of therapy) and when she's out of town she goes without but it's an ongoing process with her. She does not mention Brad Pitt's name and she said they have not been able to salvage a friendship out of their past relationship." Paltrow also admits she's not quite so sure as she used to be that she'll get married and have a family. She says, "As my reputation will attest, I have problems with commitment. I'm really interested to see if I will ever get married."

Cruise Gets New Adopted Home

He may have lost the love of the Australian nation after dumping Nicole Kidman, but Tom Cruise has gained a new second home since dating Penélope Cruz - Spain. Cruz is Spain's biggest star and newspapers, magazines, and websites have been devoting entire issues to the 'couple of the year.' A Spanish media commentator says of the national obsession with Cruise and Cruz, "There is tremendous pride because the feeling is that 'our' star is dating the world's biggest movie star. It's the hot topic on television, newspapers and magazines. Penelope's relatives - even cousin's and friends - are constantly being interviewed on television. They have absolutely nothing to say, but it doesn't matter."

Jeweller Scoffs At Pitt And Aniston Lawsuit

An Italian jewellery designer who made Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston's wedding rings has dismissed the couple's lawsuit against him as meritless. Pitt and Aniston sued Damiani International for $50 million in a federal court in Los Angeles last month, claiming the designer violated an agreement not to reproduce their wedding bands and Aniston's engagement ring. The Hollywood stars allege Damiani exploited their image as a couple to sell copies of the rings on the internet, at a Damiani dealership in Palm Desert, California, and at Las Vegas' Venetian Hotel. But Guido Damiani, the company's C.E.O. and general manager, says, "There has never been any type of agreement or contract between Damiani and Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston prohibiting or limiting the marketing of the jewellery in question." Damiani also rejects Pitt's contention that he personally designed the rings, adding, "Furthermore, the Damiani wedding bands are original and innovative creations by Damiani and the designs are patented and registered to Damiani."

Sad Hugh To Take A Break

Hugh Grant plans to take a break from acting following the death of his mother. The Notting Hill star lost his mum Fynvola, 63, from cancer last month. The actor, 40, feels that putting his career on hold will give him a chance to deal with his grief. He says, "My mother was the most important woman in the world to me and I'm finding it hard to live without her. "I'm not interested in pursuing any acting roles at the moment. I need to take some time out and get my head together." He adds, "I'm planning on spending my time writing film scripts and a novel. They may never see the light of day, but at least it gives me a break from acting and time to sort myself out. Who knows? I may decide never to return to films at all. I've got to find out what makes me happy."

Jennifer Lopez Avoids Alcohol

Jennifer Lopez may be the World's sexiest woman - but the singer insists she's a clean-cut homebody. The stunning Latina struggled during her relationship with Sean 'P Diddy' Combs, because he liked partying and drinking, much to her dismay. She says, "I don't drink, I don't like the taste. And I've never done drugs." When asked if she has any weaknesses, Jen revealed her positive indulgences. She continues, "Massage, baths, that sort of thing. I like things that calm me down."

Angelina And Billy Bob Prepare Joint Project

Angelina Jolie is excited about working with husband Billy Bob Thornton - on the movie he's writing about life and love. The actress, who recently starred in the hit movie Tomb Raider, met Thornton on the last movie they worked on together, Pushing Tin. But she's more excited about their next project, which is being written by Thornton specifically for him and his wife. She says, "Honestly, I'd really like to work with my husband. I worked with him once before on a very playful kind of film, but we didn't have really a lot to do together. I loved his work before I met him, and now I know him. Creatively, I'd be amazed, and I'd love to watch him work. We have talked about doing something together, something he's going to write. A beautiful story about human beings and their flaws. It's a story, in essence, that says you don't have to be anybody in this world, and we both think it's just beautiful."

Wahlberg's Home Studio

Hollywood heart-throb Mark Wahlberg refuses to completely cut his musical roots - he's had a studio built into his Los Angeles home. The Planet Of The Apes star formerly enjoyed a career in the music business as rapper Marky Mark. However, he insists he'll never return to music despite the $250,000 studio he's had installed. He says, "I'm 30 years old, I love listening to music, I have a studio in my house and mess around once in a while. But to be in the music business just doesn't make sense to me. It seems like a lifetime ago."

Dan Aykroyd To Quit Acting

Screen star Dan Aykroyd is quitting the movie industry. Aykroyd has already moved out of Hollywood, and now vows to make one last film before he retires. He says, "I'd like to find and choose the last vehicle and exit on a really high, graceful, substantial note in film." On his reasons for giving up acting, Aykroyd says, "I don't feel compelled and driven, career-wise. "At 49 years old, I'm really feeling sedentary, reclusive. I really just want to just shut everything down for a while."

The End Is Nigh For Cruise And Kidman

Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman are set to sign the papers to legally end their marriage in a Los Angeles courtroom this morning (Wednesday). This follows one of their first public appearances together since the announcement of their split. According to Reuters, Kidman (the star of the film) and Cruise (one of the film's producers) arrived separately with separate groups of friends at the Tuesday night premiere of The Others and kept their distance from each other. Neither was willing to speak about their split, trying to focus discussion on the film. When Kidman was asked how she felt about Cruise being there, she said, "I feel how I feel," adding, "I am glad he is here to support the movie." Though Cruise spent time outside the theater, talking to reporters, he reportedly did not go into the screening itself. (This report was compiled by IMDb staff)

Russell Crowe Goes Quadruple-threat

Ending speculation about why he had been turning down some choice roles, Variety reported Wednesday that Russell Crowe has signed on to write, direct, appear in and produce The Long Green Shore. The film is based on a novel about an Austrailian battalion in World War II and Crowe will be re-writing the original script by Bob Ellis, a friend of the novel's late author John Hepworth. Though Crowe, who is co-producing the film with Mark Johnson, is expected to act in the film, it is not known if he'll take a marquee role or if he'll step into something smaller. (This report was compiled by IMDb staff)

Crowe Watched Cruise And Cruz Fall In Love

Cameron Crowe watched Tom Cruise and Penelope Cruz fall in love on the set of Vanilla Sky. Crowe - who directed the remake of Spanish film Open Your Eyes (which also starred Cruz) - says he could see the attraction, between the pair, grow. The director says of the couple - who say they started dating after the film had finished shooting - "They did the rarest thing: They fell in love with someone on-screen. The first time we screened the movie - just in-house - it was the kind of situation where at the end you get that reaction of, 'Wow! They were really in love.'" And Crowe even thinks that the off-screen romance made the film better. He adds, "You watch them actually go through that hideous, great awful, intoxicating moment. Without it, we wouldn't have a movie."

Banderas Pines For Homeland

Antonio Banderas fell more in love with his native country when he left Spain to live in America than when he was growing up there. The star admits leaving Spain in the mid 1990s made him appreciate his country more. He says, "When I left my country I observed my country in a different way. I suddenly got an incredible love of everything. I suddenly loved Flamenco music but when I lived in Spain it was Elvis I admired. You take your culture for granted when you live there but when you move away you become much more interested and an expert in your own turf."

Aniston Wants To Be A Bad Girl

Actress Jennifer Aniston is excited about her next film role - because it will dispel her 'good girl' image. The Friends star is sick of playing goody-two-shoes and can't wait to get nasty on screen. She says, "Not to have to be 'the good girl', it's been a real battle to get there." Jen is set to get her wish, when she plays an adulterous housewife in low-budget flick The Good Girl next year.

Walhberg Goes Ape Over Hooker

Mark Wahlberg was left red-faced after going bananas over a curvy blonde. Mark spotted the girl while drinking at New York club Man Ray with friends, and then proceeded to spend the evening chatting with her. He was left stunned after he suggested going back to his apartment for some fun - and she replied, "Well, it'll cost you." A friend of Wahlberg says, "Mark was pretty embarrassed. He couldn't believe she was a prostitute. He gets a lot of women coming on to him because he's a film star but he was really taken with her. But there was no way that he was going to pay for sex with her." The pal adds, "It got worse when her pimp showed up. He was trying to persuade Mark his girl was worth the money. Mark left quickly. But the girl wasn't happy. She said she'd wasted a whole evening on him." Mark, who shot to fame playing porn actor Dirk Diggler in Boogie Nights, later said, "She was so sweet and nice, I couldn't believe she was a hooker."

Kidman: I'm Not Bitter About The Divorce

Actress Nicole Kidman refuses to be bitter about her highly publicized break-up from actor Tom Cruise. The divorce of Hollywood's former golden couple will become final on Wednesday, but the flame-haired beauty insists she doesn't harbor a grudge against her spouse. Kidman, who has two children with Cruise, told ABC's Good Morning America that 2001 had been a very difficult year for her but, "I'm a person that carries everything that happened to me in my past, with me into the future. I refuse to let it make me bitter." When pressed about the media's constant coverage of the split and reports Cruise is having an affair with Spanish-born actress Penélope Cruz, 27, with whom he co-starred in Vanilla Sky, Kidman merely shrugged and said she didn't want to play out her personal life in public. "I'm a woman, a mother, a daughter, a sister, I'm a real person operating in the world. For me to sit here in front of millions of people and discuss the most private thing feels wrong. It feels like I am betraying myself and my children," she explains. Cruise, 39, filed for divorce from Kidman, 34, in February, citing "irreconcilable differences." Kidman was reported to have been shocked by the split.

Brosnan Forced To Cancel Italian Honeymoon

Pierce Brosnan has been forced to cancel his honeymoon after details of where he and bride Keely Shaye Smith were going leaked out. The suave actor and his love were desperate for some privacy, but it was not to be. Pierce's Hollywood publicist Dick Guttman says, "They had planned a two-week break in Italy. They were going to take a cruise around Sicily. It was all going to be very romantic. But the story got out to the media so they've cancelled that now. I think they are going to go somewhere else which they will decide at the last minute." He also confirmed that veteran actor Rod Steiger and The Tailor Of Panama director John Boorman had attended the wedding. He adds, "It was very much a family wedding, a special day for both their families."

Brosnan's Super Security For Wedding To Keely

Pierce Brosnan is ensuring his forthcoming wedding will be a truly private affair by hiring the security firm who patrolled Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston's ceremony. The James Bond star, 49, will wed Keely Shaye Smith, 36, at Ballintubber Abbey in County Mayo, Ireland, on Saturday. And so intent is the Irish actor on keeping the ceremony hidden from prying eyes, he's booked the same security firm who handled Aniston and Pitt's nuptials last year. Ashford Castle, where Brosnan and his new wife will celebrate their wedding with a lavish party, has been completely sealed off and guests & staff at the 83-room hotel have had to sign confidentiality agreements. An onlooker at the castle says, "There are already security men at every gate - but the really heavy presence only moves in later today." Brosnan and Shaye Smith will dine inside the castle following the ceremony tomorrow afternoon, then walk through a sealed off passageway to a giant marquee in the grounds. And the marquee even has windows that guest can see out of but that can not be seen into - ensuring the many celebrity guests can toast the pair's happy day in total privacy.

Tom Cruise: We Need To Let Go Of The Past

Tom Cruise explained last night why he was seeking a quickie divorce from Nicole Kidman - he believes it will help them let go of the past and move on. Cruise, whose 10-year marriage to Kidman is to be resolved in one of the quickest divorces in Hollywood history, made the comments less than 24 hours after a judge ordered the dissolution of his marriage to the Australian actress. Cruise said, "I feel it will assist Nicole and me in moving on with our lives emotionally." He added, "Irreconcilable differences have arisen between Nicole and me. These differences have led to an irredeemable breakdown of our marriage. I do not believe professional counselling or the assistance of any mental health professional, lapse of time or any other factor will change this breakdown." Cruise is now reported to be dating his Vanilla Sky co-star Penélope Cruz, who is living in one of his Los Angeles' homes.

Dogma Director In Trouble With Gay Group

Dogma director Kevin Smith has been blasted by a gay rights group over alleged homophobia in his film Jay And Silent Bob Strike Back. Smith, previously attacked by Catholics over his 1999 religious comedy Dogma, in which Alanis Morissette played God, is under fire from the Gay And Lesbian Alliance Against Discrimination (GLAAD). The film, which hits screens later this month, stars Jason Mewes and Smith himself as Jay and Silent Bob. But Smith's film is rife with oral-sex jokes and gay references and after viewing a screening, GLAAD fired off a letter to Smith. They complain that the film "reinforces [gay men] as objects of acceptable ridicule and dehumanization," and condemn Jay's perpetual use of the word "gay" when describing something stupid. Scott Seomin, GLAAD's entertainment media director, says, "I know Kevin Smith is not a homophobe. But we feel the movie he wrote and directed is overwhelmingly homophobic, and there's a huge potential for a negative impact on gay people, particularly gay youth." Smith has posted his own response to the criticism on the Website for his production company, www.ViewAskew.com. calling it a satire of young male stupidity. He writes, "Neither Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back nor myself are homophobic. If anything, we're overtly gay-friendly."

Brad: Jen Should Have An Affair With Steven Tyler

Brad Pitt has given wife Jennifer Aniston permission to have an affair with rocker Steven Tyler. The lucky Friends actress, 32, has told Elle fashion magazine that she and her spouse discussed who she's allowed to be unfaithful with, and agreed she can get together with the Aerosmith wildman - because Tyler has lots of energy. Sexy Jen says, "He is the one person that Brad says I can have if the opportunity presents itself. I don't know how old the man is, but he's phenomenal, that energy." But the babe and Brad's little agreement only benefits her - when asked who she's agreed to Brad having a fling with, Aniston snaps, "That never comes up."

Judge Clears The Way For Cruise And Kidman's Divorce

Reuters reports Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Lee Edmon granted a petition Monday to "bifurcate" the divorce proceedings between Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise, clearing the way for their marriage to be officially ended next week. The bifurcation allows the divorce to proceed and be completed prior to the settlement of property and custody issues, which will be slugged out by the duo's lawyers in the coming months. Kidman and Cruise are supposed to be seen together in public, for first time since the divorce was announced, when they attend the premiere of Kidman's new film The Others (which was produced by Cruise) in Los Angeles next Tuesday. Barring any legal difficulties, they'll be together again the following morning... in a courtroom, ending their marriage. (This report was prepared by IMDb staff)

XXX Marks The Spot For Vin Diesel

Vin Diesel will see his salary rise to $10 million when he takes the lead role in action movie XXX. Diesel has become hot property in Hollywood thanks to the surprise success of car chase thriller The Fast And The Furious. XXX has been described as an extreme James Bond adventure with an urban feel to it. The movie is due to go into production this autumn with plans to release the film next July.

Woody Harrelson Goes Back To Nature

Actor Woody Harrelson is taking a well earned break after starring in his latest film Scorched - by cutting himself off from civilization. Woody finished shooting in Los Angeles in June, and is now resting in Costa Rica without the modern conveniences of everyday life. Bob Mazza, publicist for Danny Sherman, one of the film's producers, reports that Harrelson is living in a lean-to, unburdened by modern conveniences. Mazza says, "He doesn't even have a cell phone out there." Scorched, which also stars John Cleese and Alicia Silverstone, tracks the lives of several bank tellers and their separate, bumbling schemes to rob their employer.

Julia Roberts: I Want A Baby

Newly single Julia Roberts would love to become a mom - but isn't ready to get married yet. The Oscar-winning actress, who just split from longterm boyfriend Benjamin Bratt, admits that she thinks a lot about having a family of her own. Roberts, 33, says, "When you're over 30, the thought that you will have a family becomes clearer, more possible and much closer." But, with Bratt out of the picture, Roberts admits that the person she's most in love with at the moment is herself. She says, "For some time now I've become more and more interested in myself, where I come from and how I got to be the person I am and how I got all this success. I really believe I was born to be happy. That's my destiny."