Prince Harry is caught cavorting naked at party...

LONDON: Britain's Prince Harry has been caught on camera doing something embarrassing - again.

Celebrity gossip website TMZ posted photos of the 27-year-old royal cavorting nude with an unidentified woman in a VIP suite in Las Vegas.

It's hardly the first time the prince - who allegedly disrobed as part of a game of strip pool - has been filmed misbehaving. The third-in-line to the throne was earlier photographed wearing a Nazi uniform for a costume party. Some would argue footage in which he was heard to utter a racial slur while teasing a fellow army cadet from Pakistan was more serious.

If the reaction of Britons to Harry's Las Vegas adventure was anything to go by, the nude photos will do little to tarnish his generally positive, party-prince image.

Referring to the prince's naked romp and asked if Harry had done anything wrong, Jim Conlon, a 60-year-old construction worker said, "No." Conlon was genuinely offended by the very question. "I'd be proud of him if he were my son," he said.

Conlon's opinion was typical of a country where thousands of streets and pubs are named for the royal family. Polls published earlier this year showed support for the monarchy at an all-time high, perhaps buoyed by the celebrations surrounding Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee celebrations marking her 60 years on the throne.

Interviews with Londoners up and down the capital's Prince of Wales Road yielded few critics of Harry's antics.

Craig Martin, 38, another construction worker, said: "He's the prince. He can have any bird he wants!"

Down the road, caregiver Shirley Ashard laughed at the news of Harry's naked adventure, dismissing questions about the propriety of running around a plush hotel room in the buff with a boys-will-be-boys shrug.

"I've got kids. They do things like that," the 59-year-old said. "He's a lad, for God's sake."

Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine said Harry's romp will not harm his image or that of the royal family. Seward felt Harry's party-boy image was part of his approachable, normal persona.

"Of course it's stupid, but it doesn't make people dislike him - quite the opposite," she said. "It shows that he is a guy who gets into trouble and he's the one people love to love. It could only happen to Harry - but we love him for it."

She did think, though, that Harry might get a talking-to from Prince Charles. Prince Harry's office confirmed yesterday that the photos were of the prince but declined to make any further comment.

The blurry, low-resolution photographs appear to have been snapped from inside a hotel suite, and it isn't clear if the prince was aware that they were being taken. That could be a violation of the royal's privacy. It might also explain why Britain's scandal-hungry tabloids were steering clear of the images.

Ashard said the only outrage she could muster was against the photographer.

"That's out of order," she said. "How would you like it if someone took pictures of you in your hotel room?"

From fan to friendship – what I learned from Phyllis Diller

Wade Allen

I was 15 years old when I first corresponded with comic Phyllis Diller. As a fan, I was seeking an autograph from a celebrity whom I’d seen on TV.

It never occurred to me that she was 70 years my senior or that others my age probably weren’t familiar with her illustrious career. I just thought she was very funny.

After nearly a decade of correspondence with one of the world’s most beloved entertainers, I came to understand that it was quite extraordinary.

People began to tell me how awesome it was that I wrote Phyllis. In my letters, I would often request autographs, extend greetings and let her know how much I admired her career.

We exchanged Christmas cards and for the past several years, I sent her birthday gifts and cards — anything to let her know that she was being thought of and appreciated.

And to my great surprise, she seemed to take an interest in me. It was “a thriller from Diller,” as she jokingly called the correspondence, to go to the mailbox and see an envelope with her return address label affixed to it.

I amassed quite a collection of memorabilia associated with her career including dozens of signed photographs. I even purchased a few memorabilia items at auctions including some autographed handbags.

When I was growing up, I watched Phyllis on television. I was also interested in watching video tapes containing recordings of her appearances on Dean Martin’s Celebrity Roasts, The Tonight Show and other programs.

Bounding out on stage wearing a wild wig, gaudy dress, zip-up boots, and shiny gloves, she held a long cigarette holder into the air.

Phyllis spoke a few keen comedic lines, just enough to get the audience roaring with laughter, and then proceed to arch back and belt out her signature cackling laugh. “ Ahhh-haaaa-ha-ha-ha !”

MEETING THE STAR

On a trip to Los Angeles in May, I finally got the chance to meet Phyllis Diller. Her personal assistant invited me over.

As I toured her home in amazement, it seemed that she really considered it to be an oasis where friends were welcome and entertaining came second nature. On the walls were framed photographs of her and dozens of fellow comedians including Jack Benny, Milton Berle , Bob Hope and Lucille Ball.

On one table sat a framed picture of Bette Midler. On a grand piano sat photographs of Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hope, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Backus and Betty Ford.

Phyllis’ office was filled with plaques and awards. Framed pictures of her posing alongside American presidents including Ronald Reagan and Lyndon B. Johnson were on display.

The legendary comic greeted me and my friend Lauren Foulk in a sunroom of her home overlooking a courtyard. I made Phyllis laugh without realizing it; she thought my southern accent was hilarious.

Commenting on how much she admired Lauren’s eye makeup, Phyllis asked me several questions and then I casually made conversation.

“What’s old Fang been up to?”

She cackled and held her arms in the air and exclaimed, “Same as always… nothing!”

Lauren and I were laughing as Phyllis leaned back on a sofa she was sitting on. She observed us chuckling and suddenly let out her signature bellowing laugh that went on and on. The antic sparked even more laughter.

“They’re funny and they don’t even know it,” Phyllis told her assistant, as she looked at me and Lauren.

I thought for a moment – is this really happening? Is Phyllis Diller really entertaining me? If this is a dream, please don’t wake me.

She then took my hand as we adjourned to the Bob Hope salon in her home where Phyllis played several songs on the grand piano.

Even the instrument itself was famous, being played decades earlier by Liberace.

‘LOOK AROUND, LAUGH AND BE HAPPY’

After the short concert, Phyllis posed for a few pictures with us. I was incredibly excited as a sat on the piano bench with her and the camera flashed.

As Phyllis stood from the bench, I thanked her for a memorable afternoon.

“Look around, laugh and be happy,” she said, as her assistant accompanied her to the rear of the home where Phyllis was going to rest.

Lauren and I stood in the beautifully-appointed room, speechless from the experience we’d just shared.

I looked around the Bob Hope salon at the regal fixtures and decorative items. She had a charming, picturesque living environment. A large painting of a distinguished-looking Hope sat on a wooden easel by the piano.

About 15 minutes later, Lauren and I left the home and drove to the Santa Monica Pier for sightseeing. We sat on a bench at the end of the pier, talking each other’s ears off about how cool the day had been.

I’m grateful for what Phyllis subtly taught me – to exercise generosity, show genuine interest, and share humor with others.

That’s why I’ll always be a fan of Phyllis Diller.

Read more: http://www.gastongazette.com/articles/diller-74636-phyllis-fan.html#ixzz24KeFBVeF

Craig David shows up to fans' wedding

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Craig David shows up to fans' wedding

Singer Craig David surprised a couple who made a spoof YouTube video inviting him to their wedding.

The pop star turned up to the nuptials of Theo Coyne, 28, and Lisa Potter-Dixon, 29, who say they are his biggest fans.

In the clip viewable online they changed the lyrics of Craig's hit 'Seven Days' to create the internet invitation to their big day.

The four-minute short went viral before it was eventually spotted by the singer.

British Craig, 31, then travelled all the way from his home of Los Angeles, California to Lisa's parents' home in Ely, Cambridgeshire in England.

He performed an hour-long set in the back garden at the reception.

One wedding guest said to the Daily Star newspaper: "Craig was absolutely amazing

"He was so down-to-earth that we almost forgot he was a celebrity. It really was a dream come true for Theo and Lisa."

Lisa later tweeted: "Craig!! Thank u! U are the man!"

And Craig wrote online on Sunday (19.08.12): "Had the most amazing experience last night surprising Theo & Lisa!

"Seeing them so happy having me attend & hearing me sing was as emotional for me as it was for them!"

‘The Office’ will soon be closing for good

World Entertainment News Network

The upcoming ninth season of the hit NBC comedy “The Office” will be its last.

The Emmy Award-winning series, based on comedian Ricky Gervais’ hit British incarnation of the same name, premiered in 2005, launching the careers of several little-known actors, including Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski, Mindy Kaling and Jenna Fischer.

The program has gained a large following ever since, thanks to lead characters Ed Helms and Steve Carrell, who quit the series last year. But on Tuesday, executive producer Greg Daniels shocked fans by announcing the show is calling it quits.

He tells The Hollywood Reporter, “At some point you have a choice: to always tell the beginnings of stories and the middles or to allow a story to end, and I think endings can be very powerful and meaningful pieces of the story … As we head into the home stretch, we have a lot of exciting things I’ve been wanting to do since season two. The end should be pretty cool.”

The final season of “The Office” will kick off on Sept. 20.

Interview with the “Voice of New York” Angie Martinez

“The Voice of New York” herself, Angie Martinez, the radio personality of Hot 97 and The Angie Martinez Show is well-known around the city of New York for her insight on the Hip Hop community.

TheCelebrityCafe.com had an opportunity to speak with Angie Martinez about how her love of Hip Hop began. Martinez also opens up about what inspires her and who is left on her list of great people that she would like to speak with on her show.

TheCelebrityCafe.com: Can you tell me how you began your career in radio?

Angie: I got an internship when I was 16. I lived in Miami for a couple of years. My mother moved me there when I was a kid. She moved me there from 16-18. I got an internship with the radio station out there, Power 96. When I moved back to New York at 18, I did an internship at Hot 97 and been there every since.

TCC: It sounds like you had a great start!

Angie: It’s like I grew up at Hot 97.

TCC: You have been appearing on the reality television show, Empire Girls: Julissa and Adrienne along with the stars of the show Julissa and Adrienne. How do you feel about the current representation of Latin women on television and reality television shows?

Angie: One of the things that appeal to me about this show is that it is a positive representation. It’s two young girls trying to find their way and they have great families and great friends. There is nothing negative about who they are and what they’re trying to do. It’s an amazing representation of young Latin women. You know everyone gets stereotyped and you know sometimes stereotypes are annoying today.

TCC: Of course.

Angie: So it’s nice to have a little more diversity, you know what I mean? Not every Latin woman says ‘mami’ and ‘papi,’ and wears tight dresses. It’s nice to see different variations of what we are.

TCC: It is definitely good to see a nice variety!

TCC: You have interviewed quite a bit of celebrities from The Kardashians to Nicki Minaj. Is there anyone left in the Hip Hop community that you would like to interview next and why?

Angie: I think I’ve probably interviewed every single person in the Hip Hop community. I mean, there are people outside of the Hip Hop community that I haven’t interviewed, but within the Hip Hop community, I don’t think there is anyone that has not come to see me.

TCC: Who outside of the Hip Hop community, do you have a big interest in interviewing?

Angie: Probably my dream would be to interview Oprah. She’s the only person left on my list that I haven’t gotten to yet. I think that’s the only person left. I’ve really been lucky! I’ve even interviewed Barack Obama…

TCC: Why are you drawn to Oprah?

Angie: Just for one, She’s Oprah Winfrey! Just for me personally, what I do for a living, I’m truly inspired by her. I mean the woman has changed the world, literally. How many people can say that? I would just like to have a conversation with her, in general. I’m sure plenty of people in the world would! I did get close to her though. I got Gayle!

TCC: You’re getting one step closer! Was it a great interview?

Angie: It really was! She likes Hip Hop so we were talking about Jay-Z… we were talking about music.

TCC: What advice can you give young women fresh out of college, who are looking to become entrepreneurs and aspire to make a difference in this world?

Angie: I think it’s important to find what you love. Life is so short. Life is too short to work hard at something you don’t love. And the only way you are going to be successful is if you work hard. It’s like the best choice in life to find something to do that you love. It makes for a better quality life. Also, know your craft and then go for it!

TCC: Back to music! What was the first Hip Hop track that inspired you?

Angie: Geez… that’s hard to say. I don’t remember the first song but I remember the first piece of music I bought with my own money, Slick Rick and Doug E. Fresh, La-Di-Da-Di, flip side with The Show. I remember I was a little kid peaking into my aunt’s house party. I was like a little kid in my pajamas. I thought it was the cutest thing. It’s been a part of my life forever.

TCC: And I bet it’s still growing… like your falling in love every time you hear a new song.

Angie: I do! I mean, I don’t love everything, but I do still love the culture and there are still artists that come out that I appreciate.

TCC: Do you feel like there’s been a change in the way Hip Hop is today? Do you wish Hip Hop was how it used to be?

Angie: Well, nothing can be like it used to be, not music, not food, not the world. It’s evolution! Everything evolves. Hip Hop was great in the 80s, it was great in the 90s. Some people liked it better in the 80s and some people liked it better in the 90s. It’s just a constant evolution. I don’t think one is better that the other. You know, we’re all different now. Social media and the way in which people get music have changed. When Hip Hop first started, you used to have to work for it. You used to have to stay up late to listen to the radio on a Friday night because that’s the only time they played it! It was a culture that used to have to work to get it. Now it’s like, you punch something into a computer and you can have an artist’s whole new album in a couple of minutes. By the next month, people are over it.

TCC: The music industry does go by a lot faster now.

Angie: Being invested in an artist, that part I do miss. Now I feel like everything happens so fast that it’s “on to the next… on to the next…”

TCC: If you were to create a playlist right now, what songs would be on your list? Whether you are going to the gym or out with your girls, what songs would you want to listen to today?

Angie: Oh my God, that’s so hard, because it depends on my mood.

TCC: So what mood are you in today? What do you want to hear?

Angie: I always go back to the El Cantante soundtrack. That’s my go-to soundtrack. Right now I’m listening to the Nas album, the Rick Ross Album. Honestly, I still have the Adele album in my car. That’s about it so far.

TCC: Angie, I would like to thank you for speaking with me today!

Angie: Thank You!

Avril Lavigne and Nickelback singer Chad Kroeger engaged to be married

Pop singer Avril Lavigne and rocker Nickelback frontman Chad Kroeger have been secretly dating, and on Tuesday the couple announced that they are engaged to be married after only dating for six months.

People reported that Avril Lavigne and Chad Kroeger have managed to keep their romance a complete secret from their fans for six months, and now they are ready to go public with their big news that they are engaged, and planning to marry.

Avril's close friend told people: "A romantic relationship blossomed as they spent time writing together."

Lavigne, 27, and Kroeger, 37, first got together in February to co-write a song for Lavigne's upcoming fifth studio album.

Engagement Details:

Chad Kroeger asked Avril Lavigne to be his wife on August 8,, presenting the singer with a huge 14-carat diamond engagement ring.

A member of Avril's family stated to the magazine: "He makes her so happy. Both of their families could not be more excited."

This will be Avril Lavigne's second marriage, she divorced Sum 41 lead singer Deryck Whibley in 2009. She has also been linked with Brody Jenner. For Chad Kroeger this will be his first marriage.

In April 2012, Lavigne confirmed that she had "finally" finished work on her fifth album and that she would be taking a short hiatus before releasing it and embarking on "[her] next artistic journey".

No wedding date has been set as of yet that has been reported anyway, but with as sneaky as these two rockers are they will have their wedding without none the wiser.

What do you think about Avril Lavigne and Chad Kroeger's engagement news?

Gabriel Aubry thinks Halle Berry could die like Diana

Halle Berry ex-boyfriend thinks she faces the same tragic fate as Princess Diana if she moves to France.

Gabriel Aubry's attorney made the claim in a Los Angeles court as he fights for custody over their daughter Nahla.

Halle and Gabriel are embroiled in a court battle over whether the mother should be allowed to move to the European country - where her fiance Olivier Martinez is from - with their young girl.

The actress believes their offspring will be better protected from aggressive paparazzi in France due to the country's strict laws about professional celebrity photographers.

But Gabriel's attorney argued Halle and Nahla would be making the situation worse as France is the same country where Princess Diana was killed in a wild paparazzi car chase back in 1997, according to website TMZ.com.

Halle's lawyer called several French lawyers - who testified that French judges will punish any photo press members who pursue the family.

Under French laws, paparazzi cannot photograph famous people who don't want their pictures taken, even if they're out in public.

Photographers who violate the law can be sued and if they harass the well-known person they can be criminally prosecuted.

Jackie Evancho’s Star Rises In Hollywood

Jackie Evancho first got everyone’s attention as the pint-sized singer with the big, classical voice on the fifth season of America’s Got Talent in 2010. Now the 12-year-old – who has the distinction of being the youngest top-10 debut artist in U.S. history and the youngest solo artist ever to go platinum – is heading to the big screen to play Robert Redford’s daughter in his next film The Company You Keep.

In an exclusive interview Celebrity Teen Scoop chatted with Jackie and got the latest buzz on her exciting new acting career, her upcoming album ‘Songs From The Silver Screen’ and which Nickelodeon star this tween is dying to meet (it’ll surprise you.)

Celebrity Teen Scoop: Congratulations on your upcoming album, ‘Songs From The Silver Screen’, that features movie tunes. Tell us a little bit about it.
Jackie: I was first inspired to sing by a song from a movie – Phantom Of The Opera. So I thought it would be a good idea to make an album of songs from films. There are some old movie songs and some that are newer. From those songs I think there’s at least one song for everybody. I think this album will take people on a journey

CTS: Are you a big movie fan? What are some of your favorite movies?
Jackie: I still watch Phantom Of The Opera a lot – I LOVE IT! I watch all types of films, from horror to comedy!

CTS: You got your big break on America’s Got Talent. Tell us what that experience was like.
Jackie: It was a great experience and I had a lot of fun doing the show. I met a lot of nice people there that I still stay in touch with. I’m very grateful to America’s Got Talent and the judges because that’s what gave me my big break

CTS: You have a part in Robert Redford’s upcoming film The Company You Keep. Tell us how that came about.
Jackie: Robert Redford saw me singing on TV and contacted my manager to see if I could be in the film. A week later I was on set shooting! It happened very fast.

CTS: Was this your first experience as an actress?
Jackie: As a professional actress, yes. When I was younger my brother and I were in a local production of High School Musical and A Christmas Carol.

CTS: Would you like to continue acting in the future?
Jackie: Yes, I loved it and would like to do more.

CTS: Do you ever get stage fright? If so, what do you do to get over it?
Jackie: I don’t get stage fright but I do get a little nervous before I go on stage. When that happens I say to myself, “Jackie, you can do this!” and then I say a little prayer. 

CTS: Besides singing, what other hobbies do you have?
Jackie: Playing with my brothers, sister and friends is my biggest pasttime! I like swimming, sewing, drawing, writing poems, etc.

CTS: You’ve found fame at such a young age – what advice can you give to young people your age who have dreams of stardom?
Jackie: I’ve said this before, but the best advice I can give is to always follow your dreams! Your dreams won’t just happen, though, you have to work hard at accomplishing them.

CTS: What celebrity/celebrities do you want to meet that you haven’t met yet?
Jackie: There are so many I would like to meet, but one that comes to mind right now is George Lopez! I watch his show on Nickelodeon [Lopez' show runs in syndication on Nick At Nite] and I think he is really funny. I saw him in the audience when I sang on Dancing With The Stars but we didn’t get to meet.

CTS: How do you balance school, your career, friends and family life?
Jackie: My parents are very strict about this. They create a balance between working/singing and being home. The longest they allow me to be away is normally a week, and when I do travel besides having a parent with me I usually have one of my brothers or sister there, too, so that it doesn’t get boring for me waiting to do my shows. When it’s not the summer I study every day as my schooling is important.

Celebrity Reflection: AquaSpa

The newest build by Celebrity Cruises, Celebrity Reflection, will feature an enhanced AquaSpa by Elemis, complete with an expanded ‘Persian Garden’.

The 883-square-foot ‘Persian Garden’ will offer 15 heated tile beds and special events including “Girlz Night”, a social spa night for women and “Couples Night” offering couples an intimate escape. 

A sensory experience circuit within the ‘Persian Garden’ will feature an Hammam, an infrared sauna that penetrates deep into guest’s joints and surrounding tissue rather than simply heating the skin like a traditional sauna, an aromatic steam room and a ‘Cold Room’ complete with icy cold floors and walls to aid in the tightening of pores.

Guests can also create customised scrubs made from salts, sugars and herbs at the new ‘DIY Salt and Scrub Bar’ and experience an array of sensory showers including a warm, tropical rain shower infused with mild, fruity fragrances and an arctic cold mist shower enriched with eucalyptus.

A variety of new treatments will also be on offer, including “Rhythm and Bliss” designed to “tune up” tension whilst guest’s “tune out” with noise cancelling headphones playing a mix of either classical, world, electronic or rock music.

Ryan Lochte Is Crushing On Blake Lively & AnnaLynne McCord

Ryan told reporters which famous ladies he’s crushing on and what he looks for in a girl! His answer may surprise you! Read on for the details. Fresh off his gold medal wins at the London Olympics, Ryan Lochte could probably have his pick of woman to date. At the SummerSlam VIP Kick-Off Party in Los Angeles, presented by the WWE and The Creative Coalition and held Thursday, Aug. 16, Ryan told reporters his big celeb crush: Blake Lively! Answering a question about who he’d like to work with if he booked more acting jobs following his recently-shot guest spot on 90210, Ryan, 28, says, “Blake Lively because I have a big crush on her! She is definitely my celeb crush!” His celebrity crushes don’t stop there, though! Another reporter asked Ryan which of the 90210 girls he was crushing on and the Olympian said, “AnnaLynne McCord. I would have to say that she would be my choice!” And about what Ryan looks for in a girl, he told reporters, “She has to be able to take care of herself. She just can’t rely on me to do everything for her. She has to hold her own. And if she always puts a smile on my face and makes me happy, then we are set.” When asked if she had to be able to cook, Ryan replied, “No, if she can’t cook then I will try to cook. I really can’t cook so I guess we would be ordering out.” So cute! What do you think, HollywoodLifers?

Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes' divorce official (Video)

Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes' five-year union is officially over, according to E!.

Papers were filed in a New York court Monday, closing the the divorce case. This marks an unusually quick end to one of Hollywood's most known couples.

The divorce news comes only a month and a half after Holmes filed for divorce from Cruise, seeking sole custody of their six-year-old daughter, Suri. The duo entered negotiations almost immediately and worked out a settlement in a matter of days.

Sources say Cruise is in a good place and has come to terms with the dirvoce.

"Tom is very happy and relieved that he is moving forward," says the source. "His priority is being a good father and this settlement will make sure that continues."

Cruise and Holmes began dating in April 2005 and married in November 2006.

FEBRUARY 26: Actor Tom Cruise (L) and actress Katie Holmes arrive at the 2012 Vanity Fair Oscar Party hosted by Graydon Carter at Sunset Tower on February 26, 2012

Photo credit:  

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images 

Cruise, 50, and Holmes, 33, are reportedly on amicable terms and are co-parenting and communicating for the sake of their daughter. Suri lives with Holmes in New York and gets liberal visitation and travel with Cruise.

The Musical Stylings of Celebrity Offspring

hen Gus + Scout, the lo-fi, quasi-country buzz band and celebrity scion super-duo, began their set at Mercury Lounge Monday evening, it was tough not to notice the boldfaced offspring in the front row. Equally salient was the surplus of concertgoers in what appears to have become the official uniform of Los Angeles transplants: ripped, floral dresses; vintage T-shirts and black bras; backward caps and flannel shirts. They looked young. They looked happy. Surprisingly, they knew all the words.

"That was a first," said Scout LaRue Willis the next day, sounding giddy over the phone. "We've developed a following."

To get this out of the way: Ms. Willis, the band's vocalist, is also the 21-year-old daughter of actors Demi Moore and Bruce Willis. Gus Wenner, the band's songwriter and guitarist, is also Edward Augustus Wenner, the 23-year-old son of Jann Wenner, the founder of Rolling Stone magazine. Ms. Willis's sisters—Talullah and Rumer Willis—attended the concert. So did Mr. Wenner's brother Theo Wenner, a photographer who's also reportedly dating the actress Liv Tyler. The band formed at Brown University, where its members studied (Mr. Wenner graduated in the spring; Ms. Willis will be a senior in a few weeks).

But for all those high-profile connections, their sound is decidedly unglamorous. It has more in common with Fiona Apple or Mirah than the Rolling Stones or the Strokes. The band lists Etta James and Neil Hagerty as their influences.

"I'm a little over L.A.," sighed Ms. Willis, who hails from Beverly Hills. "It stresses me out. In New York, people are free to explore. You can live more publicly. In L.A., people are hiding in their cars all the time." More to-the-point: "I didn't apply to any schools on the West Coast," she said.

Of course, it can be tough to shake the "celebrity kid" label: the publicist introduced a reporter as a writer for Rolling Stone, before embarrassedly correcting herself. But the band has developed a fan-base over-the-border in Canada, where they recently road-tripped and toured. And if Monday's performance was any indication, they're developing a tightknit fan-base of young New Yorkers and Angelenos, too.

"People began mouthing words in Canada," Mr. Wenner recalled. "And it felt like we were being taken seriously."

The duo has developed a ritual: Before a show, they run around the block a few times. Before a recent show in Canada, Ms. Willis got sick after her jog. "It was my Eminem/'8 Mile' moment," she said. "I get anxious." Mr. Wenner recalled the simple pleasures of living on the road and waking up too early to eat breakfast at a decent diner. "We ate at these horrible restaurants and had fries with gravy and cheese," he said of the Canadian staple known as poutine. "And now I never want to eat that again."

Gus + Scout plan to hit Montauk for more shows next week. Ms. Willis will return to school, and the band will continue to work on new songs. "If I could do this for the rest of my life I'd be over the moon," Ms. Willis said. "I'm just going to keep writing songs and we'll keep playing music."

Oh, right: the music. It has a gentle, solemn quality. But will it speak for itself at some point? They hope so. "We're going to be as true to ourselves as we can be right now," said Mr. Wenner. How would he describe their new songs? "Awesome."

Kimmel to go against Leno, Letterman

There’s a late-night talk show fight brewing, oh boy.
Starting in January, “Jimmy Kimmel Live” will move from the 12:05 a.m. to the 11:35 p.m. time slot long held by “Nightline.” ABC said that it wanted to take advantage of Kimmel's ratings growth and the potential for greater ad revenue.

That puts Kimmel directly up against Jay Leno on NBC, David Letterman on CBS and our bedtime. “Nightline” will move to 12:25 a.m.

“The most exciting thing is having a bigger audience,” Kimmel said. “You work all day on the show and you want as many people to see you as possible.”

Last season, Letterman averaged 3.22 million viewers; Leno, 3.71 million; “Nightline,” 3.89 million; and Kimmel, 1.8 million. The talk-show figures include the second half-hour that includes drowsy audience drop-off.

By our math that leaves about 290 million of us who’d rather sleep than watch any of it. Harrumph.

‘Idol’ chatter

Up for more “Idol” chatter? Well, here it is anyway.

Mariah Carey reportedly hit the roof when she heard our story (or some variant thereof) that Nicki Minaj was set to join her on the judging panel of Fox’s smash caterwauling, er, singing competition.

TMZ was told that Carey hung up the phone when she was told by someone on the other end of the phone that Minaj was a top candidate for the job.

Diva fight. Rrrrow!

Sources connected with “American Idol” tell the website that Carey was led to believe that she’d be the only woman on the panel. Also apparently an issue – Minaj is younger than Carey.

What will they do? Stay tuned.

Van Dyke honored

Dick Van Dyke will receive the Screen Actors Guild's highest honor -- The Life Achievement Award – then trip over an ottoman.

Screen Actors Guild & American Federation of Television and Radio Artists co-president Ken Howard made the announcement Tuesday. He called Van Dyke “an enormously talented performer whose work has crossed nearly every major category of entertainment.”

The 86-year-old entertainer will receive the honor at the annual SAG Awards ceremony in January. He has already won a Tony, a Grammy and five Emmy awards.

Van Dyke is being honored for his 60-year career, which includes his hit TV show, film credits such as “Mary Poppins,” and his philanthropic pursuits.

Swift date

Country singer Taylor Swift and a member of the Kennedy clan are an item, God help her. Their public displays of affection are all the rage online. Cute couple and all that.

Now Swift, 22, and Conor Kennedy, 18, the son of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have gone on a rip-roaring date, visiting the grave of his mother who recently committed suicide.

Swift and Kennedy held hands and at one point appeared to bow their heads in prayer, as did his siblings, while visiting the resting place of Mary Richardson Kennedy on Sunday.

The New York Daily News reports that Conor Kennedy also got down to clear some grass from the unmarked grave.

Trump card

Awww. Donald Trump really cares about Rosie O’Donnell.

Their ongoing (and tiresome) feud took a turn for the sickeningly sweet this week after O’Donnell suffered a heart attack.

“Rosie, get better fast. I'm starting to miss you!” Trump and that thing on his head tweeted.

TMZ was gobsmacked as only TMZ can be. “Rosie O’Donnell Receives Get-Well Message … From Donald Trump?!!” its headline said.

Further gobsmacking the gossip website was O’Donnell’s civil reply.

“well thank u donald - i must admit ur post was a bit of a shock ... r u trying to kill me ? xx,” O’Donnell typed.

One thing’s for sure, Trump will never have a heart attack, because it’s made of gold!

‘Office’ closure

“The Office” is closing up shop.

Producer Greg Daniels says NBC’s oddball comedy will conclude business at Dunder Mifflin after the upcoming ninth season.

He said that the final year will be exciting and memorable and will take creative chances. And it will reveal who's been making the mock documentary that has provided the show with its format.

“I think endings can be very powerful,” Daniel says.

Will former regional manager Michael Scott return as a guest? Daniels says he hopes Steve Carell will reprise his role as the socially inept boss (aren’t they all), but he isn't counting on it. Carell left in 2011.

While its ratings have slipped, it's still NBC's highest-rated scripted series.

Jordan’s son takes talents away from court

Michael Jordan’s son, Marcus, won’t be playing his senior season for Central Florida, according to a report on CBSSports.com. The Knights were hit with a one-year postseason ban this month after the NCAA found UCF guilty of major recruiting violations.

Jordan averaged 13.7 points for UCF last season and will continue taking classes at the school. Jordan’s on-court talent might not outweigh the distractions he creates off the court. He has made headlines recently after tweeting an adult film star and getting arrested in Nebraska for resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Keith Clanton, who had team highs in scoring (14.5) and rebounding (8.1) elected to stay at UCF, tweeting:

“I think to people’s surprise I will be returning to UCF for my Sr. season I love this team and my dreams and goals can be fulfilled here.”

Because of the postseason ban, UCF players such as Jordan and Clanton were allowed under NCAA rules to transfer and be eligible to play the 2012-13 season.

ROOKIES GET IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA

GREENBURGH, NY – Things may seem quiet around the NBA these days, but this is the time when guys ramp up preparation for the upcoming season.

The newest class of rookies is taking a break from on-court work for a few days in order to learn about the NBA lifestyle. For the past three days, the rookies have taken part in the Rookie Transition Program, learning from experts and former players about finances, nutrition, groupies, media relations and plenty of other off-court issues that they’ll have to deal with as players.

Now that they’ve gone through that, it’s time for the rookies to have some fun at the annual Rookie Photo Shoot.

For most of the 39 rookies that will be at the Knicks’ practice facility on Tuesday, the Rookie Photo Shoot is their first opportunity to wear their new uniform. Players only get practice jerseys for Summer League, but they get the real deal for the Photo Shoot (unless you were a babyfaced Thunder rookie in 2008).

The main purpose of the six-hour shoot is to get these guys’ mugs (and those new uniforms) on their first Panini basketball cards. But the folks at NBA Entertainment also take the opportunity to build their photo library with gems like this and this.

Come Tuesday afternoon, you will be able to find the latest photos of Anthony Davis, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and almost every first round pick from this year’s Draft here on NBA.com. That will surely include a picture or two of the top two picks with three of their Kentucky teammates.

So the Knicks’ gym (two courts wide) will be divided up into several stations with different backdrops for each player to cycle through over the course of the day. There’s also a DJ and video game set-up to keep the rooks entertained while their waiting to get their photos done.

After the Draft, Summer League and the RTP, this is the last day that this crop of rookies will be together as a group. It’s a one more day to relax and celebrate their arrival in the NBA.

WTA seeks to gain new fans with celebrity campaign Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2012/08/21/wta-seeks-to-gain-new-fans-with-celebrity-campaign770691/#ixzz24Br51JBm

The WTA is counting on Donald Trump, Aretha Franklin, Susan Sarandon and other celebrities to draw new fans to tennis.

The women's professional tour launched a print and broadcast marketing campaign Tuesday that features various famous faces in a bid to boost the sport.

More than a dozen celebrities agreed to appear for free in spots, including real estate mogul and reality TV host Trump — a regular visitor to the main stadium during the U.S. Open tournament — Grammy-winning singer Franklin, Oscar-winning actress Sarandon and two-time golf major champion Rory McIlroy.

"All of those celebrities like the sport, so we're using like-minded people to try to build a brand," WTA Chairman and CEO Stacey Allaster said in a telephone interview. "We're trying to continue to engage with fans and increase our fan base, and I'm thrilled the celebrities have donated their time to be part of it."

Top players such as 14-time Grand Slam singles title winner Serena Williams, four-time major champions Maria Sharapova and Kim Clijsters, and currently top-ranked Victoria Azarenka also are part of the "Strong is Beautiful" campaign.

That slogan was first used in the WTA's global marketing efforts last year, with players at the forefront of the ads.

Now the tour wants to broaden its reach.

"In today's congested marketing space, we're trying to cut through that with an inspirational and creative campaign. The use of celebrities with our own celebrities is very much being done, in fact, to draw upon the celebrities' fan base and introduce their fans to the world of women's professional tennis," Allaster said. "If someone is a fan of one of those celebs, the ultimate goal would be to try to engage with those fans and have them watch and follow WTA tennis and ultimately become a fan."

In one 15-second ad, Trump appears alone on-screen and says: "'Strong' is knowing that as much as it takes to get to the top, it takes twice as much to stay there, knowing that legends are made one shot at a time. That's what champions are all about. 'Strong' is women's tennis."

Famous faces visiting Yuma newsroom

Celebrity guests have been visiting the newsroom lately, thanks to an employee with some big-name connections.

You've heard of these ladies. Their faces are famous. Many of you grew up wanting to be like them.

When they arrive, people rave about their dresses, shoes, and fantastic hairdos.

Have you figured out that their names are Barbie, Skipper and Stacey?

We've been having fun learning about Barbie (and the humans who collect these plastic pretties). It's amazing to hear about the evolution of the dolls' designs, what you can tell by the direction their hands, face, which models were given speech, etc. And all the back-stories about the dolls' histories and relationships are fascinating, too. (Barbie is from Wisconsin?)

These show-and-tell visits aren't going to end any time soon, either. I have a feeling that my friend's so-called home for wayward dollies has more residents than some small towns.

Aiden Grimshaw: Celebrity lifestyle doesn’t amount to a hill of beans

AIDEN Grimshaw was having a lovely time at his first V Festival, claiming he usually leads a boring life.

The 2010 X Factor finalist was performing at Chelmsford yesterday and said: “People keep asking me about my so-called celebrity lifestyle.

“The other night I sat watching Harry Potter and eating chicken.

“I munched on beans on toast while the Olympic closing ceremony was on.”

Aiden, whose debut album Misty Eye is out tomorrow, added: “I’ve done a few gigs but V is the biggest thing to date.

“The only festival in Blackpool celebrates steam engines.

“I tried to convince my mum to come with me to V but she backed out.”

She’ll be at home with the beans on the hob.

Taylor Swift, Conor Kennedy spotted smooching

Photo credit: Getty Images | Actress and singer Taylor Swift poses for pictures as she arrives for the premiere of Dr. Seuss' "The Lorax" at Universal Studios Hollywood. (Feb. 19, 2012)

It was smooching at the shore for Taylor Swift and new boyfriend Conor Kennedy this week, with TMZ reporting the couple was spotted smooching Friday in Massachusetts.

Photos of the couple kissing and holding hands at the beach had gone viral on social media sites Saturday.

Swift, who ranks 11th on Forbes magazine's 2012 Celebrity 100 list with an estimated annual income of $57 million, and Kennedy have been seen throughout the summer on dates in Hyannis Port, Mass., where, according to multiple reports, the 22-year-old country star reportedly purchased a house across the street from Conor's grandmother, Ethel, for just under $5 million.

The two visited Nashville earlier this month where Swift introduced her 18-year-old beau to her parents.

The singer has already met Kennedy's family; Swift, an acquaintance of Ethel Kennedy's daughter, Rory Kennedy, asked her for an introduction to the matriarch.

The Kennedy family won't confirm whether love's brewing between the two -- Rory Kennedy has only said that Swift is a "great friend of all of ours."

Last month, the pair were seen eating in Westchester's Marcella's Pizza, a pizzeria in the center of Mount Kisco. Witnesses said Swift and Kennedy ordered a couple of slices of cheese pizza -- New York style, with an ultrathin crust.

In early July, Conor Kennedy, a scion of the storied yet tragic family, was named administrator of his mother's estate just days after he turned 18. On May 16, his mother hanged herself at the family's Bedford home. His parents, Robert Kennedy Jr. and Mary Richardson Kennedy, were locked in a bitter divorce and custody battle in the past year.