Ricky Martin Twitters sons

Ricky Martin has posted a touching photo of his twin sons on Twitter.

The 'Livin' La Vida Loca' singer celebrated Valentino and Matteo - his children through an unknown surrogate mother - recently turning one with a day at the beach and shared a series of intimate family snaps with his fans.

In one picture, the tanned star - clad just in swimming shorts - smiles into the camera, clutching a tot in each arm.

In another, he is seen building sand castles with the boys, and he also posted individual pictures of the children riding their toy trucks.

Ricky, 37, is loving fatherhood and insists he is raising the children single-handedly.

He has previously said: "I don't have a nanny. I'm doing this on my own because I don't want to miss a moment. I'm the one who changes the diapers, the one that feeds them, the one that bathes them, the one that puts them to sleep.

"Valentino loves to sleep. I call him 'Mr. Peace and Love' because he's so chilled and serene. Matteo is more alert and active."

GaGa: 'I want a fivesome with Take That'

Lady GaGa has reportedly revealed that she dreams of having five-in-a-bed sex with Take That.

The 'Paparazzi' singer first met Gary Barlow, Mark Owen, Jason Orange and Howard Donald when she supported them on tour in June and said that she is now keen to get to know them better.

In an interview with RWD, she is quoted as saying: "I'd like all four at once. They're very sexy. I'm a single girl now and I love to have a good time."

On how she will satisfy her sexual urges in the meantime, she added: "I'm not looking for anyone. I just sleep with the guys in my band all the time because it's easier."

GaGa split from her boyfriend Speedy last month. She has since been branded a maneater by her record producer Rob Fusari.

Eva Longoria Desperate for Vegas restaurant

Eva Longoria-Parker is planning to open a new Beso restaurant in Las Vegas.

The 'Desperate Housewives' actress-turned-restaurateur will unveil the new branch of her popular Hollywood-based Mexican eatery - a favourite with celebrities - on New Year's Eve 2010.

Eva said: "Vegas has the most energy in the world. It's a foodie city, which is great for us because of our menu. "Everything we offer is pretty unique. Nobody in Vegas has anything similar. I'm a big fan of the art of cuisine. I love to cook and I love to entertain, so I feel like this is just an extension of me."

While the menu will be the same as the original Beso, Eva revealed there will be drinks and special dishes inspired by the US gambling capital, as well as an upstairs lounge called 'Eve'.

Eva, 34, is also planning to expand her business further with a chain of Besitos - mini-versions of her restaurants - in airports.

She added: "We just signed the contract for the first airport and it's in Los Angeles so we're really excited." Describing Beso as like her second home, Eva also revealed her husband, basketball player Tony Parker, is a big fan of the food.

She said: "Tony would eat there morning, noon and night if it was open! His favourite dishes are the tortilla soup, the chilli rub skirt steak and the Vera Cruz corn".

Britney Spears' presidential pie pledge

If Britney Spears was US President, she would give free pies to everyone.

The 'Circus' singer outlined the ways America would benefit from her leadership in a pre-taped segment aired on 'The Late Show with David Letterman' last night (18.08.09).

Dressed in a skimpy black bikini with an oversized red flower in the hair, the 27-year-old star jokingly discussed her plans for everything from the war on terrorism and fiscal strategies to a proposal to build a nightclub on the moon and make hip-hop star P.

Diddy her second-in-command. Britney Spears' 10 presidential pledges:

1. I'd be the first president to wear eye shadow since Nixon.

2. We would only invade fun places, like Cabo.

3. Free pie for everybody!

4. My situation room would be a cabana at the Palms Casino in Las Vegas.

5. I'd lure Osama Bin Laden out of hiding with the irresistible scent of my new fragrance Circus Fantasy.

6. Every presidential news conference would feature costume changes.

7. If I was president America might have a more coherent fiscal strategy.

8. I would challenge US to put a nightclub on the moon by the end of the decade.

9. Three words: Vice President Diddy.

10. Finally the media would pay some attention to me! This is the first time the singer has appeared on the US TV talk show since 2006.

And the last Beatles song will be…

We admit we may be playing into the hands of a marketing campaign designed to eke out as much publicity as possible for the new Beatles interactive “Rock Band” video game on Sept 9. But we couldn’t resist what is a rather intriguing question.

What will be the last Beatles song available for fans to “virtually” play from a list of 45 tunes for the new game? Today, the makers announced 19 more titles that will come with the game including “Ticket to Ride,” “Come Together,” “Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds” and “A Hard Day’s Night” – bringing the list to 44.

Other songs previously announced for the Fab Four’s first digital release after years of shunning websites like iTunes include “Yellow Submarine”, “Day Tripper,” “I Am The Walrus,” “Get Back” and “Eight Days A Week.”

But some of the band’s biggest hits are not on the list and could still sneak into the game, including “Hey Jude”, “We can Work It Out” and “Yesterday.”

So what do fans hope for, as they dream of the day they can strum their plastic guitars in their lounges and make all their troubles seem so far away?

Kwanten: 'Paquin is nude more than me'

Ryan Kwanten has claimed that True Blood co-star Anna Paquin has had to shoot more nude scenes than him on the show this year.

The 32-year-old, who plays Jason Stackhouse on the HBO vampire series, spoke out about filming the programme in an interview with GQ, Extra reports.

He said: "I led the way in the sexual shenanigans department in the first season. But this season, Anna Paquin (Sookie Stackhouse) is far more naked than I am."

Paquin recently admitted that shooting nude scenes with her co-star and fiancé Stephen Moyer are easy, while she previously revealed that she would bare all for the show's sophomore season.

Cameron Diaz dating Sex-y hunk?

Cameron Diaz is reportedly dating Jason Lewis.

The 'My Sister's Keeper' actress attracted attention with her flirty and affectionate behaviour towards the 'Sex and the City' actor during a recent meal together at a sushi restaurant in Venice Beach.

An onlooker said: "Cameron and Jason were sitting in the corner of Shima totally wrapped up in one another. They couldn't stop touching each other. And we couldn't stop looking."

The couple have reportedly been friends for several years, but it is only in recent weeks that Cameron - who has been romantically linked with Maroon 5 star Adam Levine and actors Jude Law and Leonardo DiCaprio since splitting from British model Paul Sculfor in May - and Jason have started a relationship.

The source added to Grazia magazine: "They've always got along, but now realise just how much they have in common. "Jason is exactly Cameron's type. She's attracted to athletic types and they're both passionate about the environment."

Like Paul, Jason has previously dated Jennifer Aniston - who was in a relationship with singer John Mayer for several months after he split from Cameron.

"Twilight" hits the road with fan convention tour

The cast of "Twilight" in a promotional image courtesy of Summit Entertainment.

Tween vampire lovers could soon be descending on a city near you.

Summit Entertainment, producer of the "Twilight" movies, has partnered with Creation Entertainment to produce a series of "Twilight" fan conventions, which will take place at various North American locations over the next three years.

Beginning August 28 at the Hilton Parsippany Hotel in Parsippany, N.J., weekend conventions will be held in such cities as Chicago; Miami; Seattle; Nashville; San Francisco; Atlanta; Los Angeles; Charlotte, N.C.; Minneapolis; Phoenix; Boston; Toronto; and Portland, Ore.

The conventions will feature onstage appearances by "Twilight" celebrities, screenings of exclusive footage, panel discussions, parties, musical performances, costume and trivia competitions, auctions, autographing, merchandising and photo opportunities. "Twilight" fan sites, including www.twilightlexicon.com and www.twilightmoms.com , will take part with special presentations at stops on the convention tour.

"The Twilight Saga: New Moon," the second movie in the franchise adapted from Stephenie Meyer's best-selling books, opens theatrically in North America on November 20.

Detailed information about the conventions is available at www.twilightconvention.com.

Celine Dion pregnant

Celine Dion is pregnant with her second child.

The 41-year-old singer and her husband Rene Angelil, 67, conceived the baby with the help of a team of fertility specialists in New York.

Canadian French language newspaper Journal de Montreal broke the news today (18.08.09) but the 'Falling Into You' singer has yet to confirm the happy news.

The couple - who have been married since 1994 - already have an eight-year-old son Rene-Charles. Celine revealed she was going to start trying for another baby when her 'Taking Chances' world tour ended earlier this year.

The star told US talk show host Oprah Winfrey: "We are going to give it a try after my tour. Hopefully we can get pregnant again. "I have a small window of hope.

But we have been so blessed already. We tried six years for Rene-Charles. We have our miracle baby." Angelil has three other children from two previous marriages.

Madonna loves Jesus

Madonna says Jesus Luz is "the love of her life".

The '4 Minutes' singer praised the 22-year-old Brazilian model in a speech at her 51st birthday party in Portofino, Italy, on Sunday (16.08.09) before running across the room to passionately kiss him.

As friends looked on, Madonna gushed: "He's the love of my life. He has been so strong around me. I can't thank him enough." The next morning (17.08.09), the couple looked blissfully happy as they boarded a luxury yacht with Madonna's children - Lourdes, 12, Rocco, eight, Mercy, four, and David, three.

As the children relaxed on the deck, the pop superstar and her lover frolicked in the ocean, with Madonna - whose ex-husband is British director Guy Ritchie - shunning a skimpy bikini in favour of a basketball uniform emblazoned with her name.

An onlooker said: "She and Jesus looked madly in love and it was great to see her looking so happy. They just looked like any normal family enjoying a holiday together."

The singer wasn't the only one wearing unusual clothing - her newly-adopted daughter Mercy was dressed in an oversized 'I love Madonna' T-shirt. Designer duo Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana organised her Italian birthday bash. But the pair were reportedly so "terrified" she wouldn't be happy with it they had to take herbal relaxation treatments to calm their nerves.

Jennifer Lopez scared of the dark

Jennifer Lopez is scared of the dark.

The 'Get Right' singer makes her husband Marc Anthony wait until she's asleep before he is allowed to turn off the lights.

The 40-year-old star - who is renowned for her diva behaviour - explained: "I like the quiet, but I don't like the dark. "We have everything on dimmers so I kind of trick myself into the darkness. Marc always turns off the lights after he comes to bed. I'm usually sleeping - or he waits till I fall asleep and then turns them off."

Jennifer and Marc have been married for five years and the star is the first to admit their relationship, like any, "takes work". To help keep the spark alive, Jennifer reads books about successful marriages and relationships.

She said: "I'm constantly trying to figure love out. It's the never-ending question - what is the key to love? I'm old enough to know now that relationships take work. That's it's not an easy thing." As well as working hard to keep her marriage happy, Jennifer also admits her and Marc's 18-month-old twins, Max and Emme, present their own wonderful challenges.

She told In Style magazine: "There's nothing as huge as giving birth to another human being and having to be responsible for another life. There's you before kids, and there's you after kids - and they're not the same you. "Parenthood totally changes your perspective on everything. You don't come first anymore. There's somebody else you care more about than yourself."

Hong Kong singers gather for fundraising event

Hong Kong singer/actor Andy Lau and more than a hundred Hong Kong artists gathered on Saturday to record a song for a fundraising event for typhoon victims in Taiwan.

Hong Kong singer/actor Andy Lau and more than a hundred Hong Kong artists gathered on Saturday to record a song for a fundraising event. The event was set for Monday to benefit typhoon victims in Taiwan.

The song is an adaptation of Simon and Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and is sung with Chinese lyrics. Hundreds of artists wearing white T-shirts recorded the piece from 11 pm until early Sunday morning.

Event organizer, actor Eric Tsang, said that various top Hong Kong singers would join the fundraising concert on Monday including Jacky Cheung, Aaron Kwok, Leon Lai, George Lam, and Alan Tam.

Andy Lau said, "We are still planning the action for future relief. Me, Eric Tsang, and Alan Tam will consider what to do to continue the effort. I think the artists in my generation cannot separate from the Taiwan audience. We got their support and built our careers since we were young. I hope we can do something. I will be with you all the way to get through it."

Typhoon Morakot dumped more than 2 meters of rain on the island and stranded thousands in villages in the mountainous south. More than 21-thousand villagers were ferried to safety, and rescuers were working to save another 4-thousand plus.

The storm destroyed the homes of 7,000 people and caused agricultural and property damage in excess of 50-billion New Taiwan dollars around one-and-a-half billion US dollars.

Miley Cyrus' web war

Singer Miley Cyrus poses as she arrives at the Teen Choice 2009 Awards taping in Los Angeles, California August 9, 2009.

Miley Cyrus is locked in a bitter war of words with her ex-boyfriend Justin Gaston.

The 'Hannah Montana' actress - who split from the underwear model in June after around a year of dating - traded insults with Justin through cryptic messages on their Twitter blogs.

Justin started the argument by writing on his page: "People mistake stupidity for bravery way too easily."

Miley, 16, quickly replied: "Yeah. I love when people mistake bravery with writing a few stupid tweets trying to make it seem like they don't care. You're afraid to love."

The pair have remained in touch despite parting ways, and Miley appears to still harbour feelings for the 21-year-old hunk. Last week, she penned a series of heartfelt messages for her former boyfriend.

She wrote: "I am in between happy and sad today. I'm happy because I love you. I'm sad because I can't get enough of you." Since the break-up, Miley and Justin have been constantly posting their feelings about one another and the split on Twitter.

Justin wrote: "Just recorded a demo. Now I'm sitting on the couch wondering why we as humans try to pretend everything's OK when it isn't. Just be real."

Miley replied: "Everything IS ok. Honestly. I can't change you're mind and your heart no longer belongs to me. Maybe YOU'RE the one pretending you're fine (sic)."

Katy Perry prayed for big breasts

Katy Perry used to pray for bigger breasts.

The 'I Kissed a Girl' singer spent hours during her childhood begging God for an almighty bust.

The 24-year-old star - who now has a sizeable chest - revealed: "I remember really vividly kneeling by my bed as a nine-year-old, saying my prayers and asking God to give me boobs that were so big that if I laid on my back I wouldn't be able to see my feet. "Eventually that request was granted.

A bit of divine intervention displays the power of prayer!" But with bigger boobs, came greater responsibility.

Katy is now forced to go through an "intense bouncing routine" before she leaves her house to ensure her "boulders" are not going to pop out of her clothes.

Katy - who has suffered a couple of breast-baring fashion mishaps while on stage - explained to Britain's The Sun newspaper: "Every time before I go on stage, or go out where I know there will be a lot of photographers, I take a skipping rope and spend about ten minutes, fully clothed, skipping. "I look like Rocky.

This way I can ensure that everything is firmly in place and I won't have a wardrobe malfunction. Don't want those boulders doing a show of their own!"

Britney Spears enjoying sunshine at The Ritz Carlton hotel

Britney Spears enjoying the sunshine at The Ritz Carlton hotel in a bright pink bikini.

Amy Winehouse's Blake plea

Amy Winehouse has reportedly begged her estranged husband to take her back.

The 'Rehab' singer told Blake Fielder-Civil she wants to call off their divorce and give their marriage another go during an emotional phone call. A friend said: "Blake was absolutely stunned when Amy called. He couldn't believe it. It has been such a long time and so much has happened. "She told him she still loved him and missed him and wanted him back.

She said to him, 'Come home to me. Be with me.' Amy asked him, 'Do you love me?' Blake told her, 'I love you. You know I do'. "Blake told her that if she can stay clear of the drugs there is a chance for them."

The couple - who married in 2007 and were recently granted a decree nisi - have both been trying to get themselves clean of drugs and it seems to be working. Blake is still in rehab following his release from jail earlier this year while Amy recently returned to London from an eight-month break in St. Lucia. Blake is keen to rekindle their relationship as he knows they can no longer be a negative influence on each other's lives if they both stay clean.

He told Britain's News of the World newspaper: "We've been talking for the first time in months. "I love her as much as ever. I know she still loves me, even though we're getting divorced. Maybe this time we can do everything properly and not mess it up. "She is looking beautiful and healthy now and it reminds me of the old Amy.

She has been wearing my engagement ring and it meant an awful lot. "I did something wrong and went to prison. I got clean. Amy flew off somewhere hot, got clean. It was meant to be that way. "We were pushing things to the extreme with our drug-taking and it could never have carried on that way. I want to take her out for dinner and propose again. I hope that within five minutes we'll be planning where we're next going to get married."

Permanent Idol Victoria Beckham

Looking radiant in red, Victoria Beckham was spotted making her way around Boston on Thursday afternoon (August 13). American Idol judges stop to meet and greet fans, guest judge Victoria Beckham doesn't do the same.

Victoria Beckham is set to be offered 3 million to become a permanent judge on 'American Idol'.

The former Spice Girl has impressed bosses with her two guest appearances on the judging panel for the US talent show and they think she has the right credentials to take over from Paula Abdul.

However, programme executives want to make sure the British star connects with the US public before offering her the job as they are concerned they may be put off by her accent and skinny frame.

A source said: "'American Idol' is the highest rated show and they don't want to pick a judge viewers don't take to. Focus groups are going to be set up to judge Victoria's performance. "There's some concern about whether viewers will think she's too skinny.

They're also worried about her accent. She's started to talk in a very posh voice and some people might struggle with that." Other stars in the running to take over from Paula - who quit earlier this month - include Mary J. Blige and Katy Perry. It was recently claimed Victoria had "facial expression" lessons before making her debut on 'American Idol'.

A source said: "Victoria knows she has a very thick British accent and is sometimes misunderstood in America.

She wanted to come across the best she could on 'American Idol', so she took some private lessons on how to properly pronounce words and how to make appropriate facial expressions. "Victoria is famous for her pout but she herself admitted she wanted to shed that pout for the show to come across more human."

Jennifer Aniston's early exercise regime

Jennifer Aniston is seen on the set of 'The Bounty' filming in New York City, August 10, 2009.

Jennifer Aniston works out at 3am every day.

The 40-year-old actress, who is currently filming 'The Bounty' in New York, wants to keep in shape despite her hectic schedule so gets up in the middle of the night to exercise.

A source said: "Jennifer has had a totally overhaul for this film. She wants to be seriously fit, yet remain curvy. "There are a lot of early starts on set, so she has had to get up at 3am to get two hours in the gym before filming at 5am.

She is supposed to be playing a 35 year old, and is concerned she won't look the part now she is 40. "It isn't just for this part, either. Every time she is offered the role of a mother, she turns it down - she wants the young characters."

Jennifer - who was recently romantically linked to her 'The Bounty' co-star, Scottish actor Gerard Butler - has even flown her personal yoga instructor Mandy Ingber from Los Angeles to New York so she can have regular sessions in private.

The source added: "It hasn't been easy, but she has combined one-on-one yoga sessions with gruelling weight and workout sessions. "Her new body is the talk of the set and she is revelling in the attention.

Everyone agrees that Jennifer is looking sensational at the moment. Her curves have definitely been noticed - she is glowing."
Jennifer Aniston works out at 3am every day. -year-old actress, who is currently filming 'The Bounty' in New York, wants to keep in shape despite her hectic schedule so gets up in the middle of the night to exercise.

A source said: "Jennifer has had a totally overhaul for this film. She wants to be seriously fit, yet remain curvy. "There are a lot of early starts on set, so she has had to get up at 3am to get two hours in the gym before filming at 5am.

She is supposed to be playing a 35 year old, and is concerned she won't look the part now she is 40. "It isn't just for this part, either. Every time she is offered the role of a mother, she turns it down - she wants the young characters."

Jennifer - who was recently romantically linked to her 'The Bounty' co-star, Scottish actor Gerard Butler - has even flown her personal yoga instructor Mandy Ingber from Los Angeles to New York so she can have regular sessions in private.

The source added: "It hasn't been easy, but she has combined one-on-one yoga sessions with gruelling weight and workout sessions. "Her new body is the talk of the set and she is revelling in the attention.

Everyone agrees that Jennifer is looking sensational at the moment. Her curves have definitely been noticed - she is glowing."

Robert Pattinson's alien admirers

Robert Pattinson was approached in a public toilet by fans dressed as aliens.

The 'Twilight' actor was shocked when he tried to leave the bathroom facilities at a recent comic book convention only to be greeted by three people in extraterrestrial outfits.

A source said: "They blocked him when he tried to exit. Robert panicked, but then the alien monsters whipped off their scary headgear and revealed they were just three giggly Earth gal fans!" As well as hiring outfits, the trio of girls were wearing huge platform shoes to make themselves look taller.

When the fans realised the 23-year-old actor was nervous, they removed their masks and asked for his autograph.

The source added: "Robert thought it was a hilarious stunt and gave the girls everything they wanted."

Robert was not the only star to get up close and personal to a fan at the convention. Cameron Diaz agreed to marry one lucky man after he proposed to her while she was being quizzed at the event in San Diego.

Montag & Pratt talk about their sex life in Playboy

Heidi Montag poses for Playboy

Reality TV couple Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt revealed a little too much about their sex life in the pages of the new Playboy magazine.

Montag strips for the men's publication and is featured on the cover of the September 2009 issue -- and her new husband interviews her inside.

After chatting about their very public life together, the talk turns to the pair's sexual exploits, with Montag confessing she experiences 20 to 30 orgasms a day.

She says, "Before you, sex was just something that happened. Now it's something I look forward to every minute of the day."

Pratt adds, "I never imagined in my whole life I would meet a female as sexual as you are. Most girls are usually just about themselves."

Montag then comments, "It makes me happy to see you happy. Like when we do it in the car."

Her husband then recalls private plane sex on New Year's Eve, when "I initiated you into the Mile High Club," adding, "That was maybe the best experience I've ever had in my entire life ... getting to fulfill the fantasy of all fantasies. The hardest part was, like, keeping quiet so the pilots wouldn't come back."

Pratt concludes, "I feel sorry for couples who aren't as sexually satisfied as we are."

Victoria Beckham adding more 'Spice' to 'Idol'

In this Aug. 7, 2009 file photo, Victoria Beckham arrives at a hotel in Denver, Colo., to be a guest judge on 'American Idol.'

Victoria Beckham seems to be getting used to filling a fourth judge chair on "American Idol," left vacant by Paula Abdul's departure.

Fox publicist Alex Gillespie says the former Spice Girl is in Boston for callbacks. Beckham was a guest judge last Friday for opening auditions in Denver, and it was originally described as a one-time appearance.

This is the point of the show where judges give singers a golden ticket to advance to the Hollywood round.

Last week in Denver, Beckham told Fox News she was a huge fan of "American Idol" and nervous about being a judge. "My heart is about to jump out my throat," she said.

"American Idol" returns for its ninth season in January.

Mel Gibson's love songs

Mel Gibson sings on his girlfriend's new album.

The 'Lethal Weapon' star has swapped the big screen for a recording studio and has provided guest vocals for Russian singer Oksana Grigorieva's latest LP, 'Beautiful Heartache', and directed videos to accompany four of the tracks.

Oksana - who is pregnant with the Oscar-winning star's eighth child - said: "Mel is an incredible artist. He has a great voice. He is a visionary. He enabled me to produce this... for my music to live.

"The videos are like dramatic miniature films - a whirlpool of different, exciting, bright images." Oksana - who is signed to Mel's label Icon Records - has also lifted the lid on her relationship with the 'Braveheart' actor and is adamant she wasn't responsible for the end of his marriage to wife Robyn. She said: "It's not like I was planning to meet Mel specifically.

Life happens. There was a working relationship for a long time. "I thought he was happily married until I was reassured otherwise. And then it happened. "We live in the same city. I don't control who I meet. I meet many people in art and music and film, but love is inexplicable."

Mel's split from Robyn - mother of his seven children - was announced in April and just weeks later he went public with his relationship with Oksana before revealing she was pregnant

Jenny McCarthy despaired over son

Jenny McCarthy has revealed how she was pushed to her emotional limits by her son's illness, even wishing he would die.

The blonde actress hit "rock bottom" when seven-year-old Evan, who suffers from autism, was given medication which kept him awake for four days.

He suffered hallucinations and would bang his head against a bed until he bled. Jenny was so devastated by what was happening to her beloved boy, she thought it would be best if he died so he wouldn't be in anymore pain.

She told Cookie magazine: "I ran out of my house and into my driveway and screamed at the top of my lungs to God to just take him away, because I loved him so much and he was in so much pain." However, Evan's condition dramatically improved after Jenny switched her son to a gluten-free, casein-free diet and he is happier than ever now.

She said: "I have him in every sport you can imagine for socialisation, but he is already one of the most social kids you will ever meet."

Hilary Duff brings her charity work to Colombia

U.S. actress Hilary Duff waves during a ceremony to name her as youth ambassador at the Lievano palace in Bogota August 14, 2009. Duff is in Colombia for a four-day visit.

Singer-actress Hilary Duff brought her Blessings in a Backpack program to Colombia Friday to distribute 3,000 knapsacks of food to poor children in a school district south of the capital city.

Duff will spend three days visiting children and participating in a vaccination campaign. She was greeted by Bogota Mayor Samuel Moreno, whom Duff said gave her "an amazing invitation" to bring the program to Colombia.

"We've been working for four years feeding children over the weekends," she said. "They invited us to come here, and we got our first school in Bogota."

Duff and USA Harvest founder Stan Curtis started Blessings in a Backpack for children who get their best meals at school, giving them backpacks of food every Friday to take home and share with their families when they're away from their main source of nutrition. The program serves 106 schools and 26,000 children in the U.S. and Canada.

Colombia is the third country to take on the program, said Duff, 21, who earned fame as the teenage character Lizzie McGuire in a Disney series of the same title. She has appeared more recently in "War, Inc." and "Material Girls" and recorded several hit songs and music videos.

Duff said she only has time to visit Colombia because of work. She is filming six episodes of the television series "Gossip Girl," followed by a romantic comedy and a remake of "Bonnie and Clyde."

When asked if she had a favorite Colombian singer, she said Shakira, who also does charity work with children in her home country.

"I think she's an amazing writer," Duff said. "She really has a strong idea of what she wants and she can play a lot of instruments and that really impresses me."

Paris Hilton swims with sharks and stingrays

Daredevil Paris Hilton shows off her courageous side as she swims with sharks and stingrays during a paradise holiday.

The hotel heiress looked stunning as she leapt off a boat landing inches away from the fierce ocean creatures on a trip to Bora Bora island. An onlooker who spied the socialite said: "Paris looked like a goddess as she jumped into the ocean. She seemed a little apprehensive at first with the sharks and stingrays swimming around the boat.

But after some deliberation Paris threw caution to the wind and just went for it and jumped into the sea." "She really is fearless," the source added. Hilton, 28, showed off her toned physique in a blue and pink all in one bikini matched with blue shades and a green and gold headband.

Vanessa Hudgens gets naked again? More nude pics leaked

After surviving the leaked nude photos scandal in 2007, Vanessa Hudgens may have done it again.

Back in 2007, nude pictures of then 18-year-old "High School Musical" star Vanessa Hudgens were leaked. The Disney star claimed the photos were intended only for boyfriend Zac Efron, said she regretted taking them and apologized to her fans.

Now, two years later, it seems she may have done it again. It is still unclear if this is Hudgens or a remarkable look-a-like, but what is clear is numerous scantily clad and nude photos snapped on a cell phone in what appears to be a bedroom.

Several web sites have picked up the photos. Reps have yet to confirm or deny their legitimacy, but the leak comes just before her the release of her new film "Bandslam," which opens on August 14.

Penelope Cruz sparks gay director's desire

Penelope Cruz caused "sexual desire" in the gay director of 'Broken Embraces'.

Pedro Almodovar admitted that despite his sexuality he was intensely attracted to his muse, Penelope, when making his latest film – a concept he included in the plot.

He said: "Out of all the actresses I have worked with, Penelope really has been the one who has caused a sense of desire in me beyond the sensuality of a film shoot.

"Normally, as a director, you engage with your leading lady on an extremely emotional level, and there is everything but sex.

"But it is true that with Penelope it is different. She has caused me sexual desire."

Meanwhile it has been speculated this week the Spanish actress and her boyfriend, Javier Bardem, may be pregnant with their first child.

A source said: "Penelope is about four months pregnant. She's really healthy now and will be a great mother."

Penelope, 35, is on a promotional tour for 'Broken Embraces', and when she attended the UK premiere in London she wore a red Bottega Veneta trouser suit, which was sourced for her at the last minute.

At the time it was reported her luggage went missing on the flight to the UK capital from Madrid, but speculation spread that she wore the high-waisted outfit to disguise her fledgling baby bump.

'Twilight' sinks fangs into Teen Choice Awards

Robert Pattinson arrives at the Teen Choice Awards on Sunday Aug. 9, 2009, in Universal City, Calif.

Celebs arrive at the Teen Choice 2009 Awards taping in Los Angeles

"Twilight" didn't suck at the Teen Choice Awards.

The adolescent vampire drama dominated Sunday's ceremony with 11 wins, including choice movie drama, romance, liplock, rumble and soundtrack. Kristen Stewart won the movie drama actress category while Robert Pattinson picked up two surfboard-shaped trophies — one for movie drama actor, another for male hottie.

"We'll see you guys in theaters November 20th," co-star Taylor Lautner teased the squealing crowd.

Lautner and Ashley Greene, who will appear alongside Stewart and Pattinson in the upcoming "Twilight" sequel "New Moon," were honored as the male and female movie fresh faces while Cam Gigandet was crowned movie villain. "Twilight" director Catherine Hardwicke joined the cast on stage to accept the adaptation's pack of trophies.

The Teen Choice Awards, which were selected by over 83 million votes cast online, honor celebrities in TV, film, music and sports. Several winners — including 16-year-old Miley Cyrus and show hosts the Jonas Brothers — took home multiple trophies at the 11th annual ceremony at Universal Studios Hollywood's Gibson Amphitheatre.

Cyrus sailed away with six awards, winning for comedy TV show and actress for "Hannah Montana;" music/dance movie actress and hissy fit for "Hannah Montana: The Movie;" music single for "The Climb" and summer song for "Before the Storm" with the Jonas Brothers. Cyrus also presented Britney Spears the ultimate choice award.

"I'm a huge fans of hers," Cyrus said before a subdued Spears accepted her own surfboard.

The Jonas Brothers won five trophies, including choice male red carpet icons. They kicked off the show performing on a tiny stage that moved through the audience. Throughout the taped ceremony, the trio completed dares submitted by fans. At one point, younger brother Nick was challenged to hug a lineup of female fans.

"It's just hugs," Joe cautioned the women. "You're not going for long-term relationships here, girls."

Other big winners included "Gossip Girl" and Zac Efron. Chace Crawford, Leighton Meester and Ed Westwick picked up TV drama actor, actress, villain and TV series awards for the sudsy CW show while Efron won for music/dance movie actor in "High School Musical 3" and comedy movie actor and rockstar moment in "17 Again."

The ceremony itself was peppered with several odd moments.

Kathy Griffin arrived on the red carpet with Levi Johnston, the teenage ex-fiance of Bristol Palin, daughter of former Alaska governor Sarah Palin. Mike Tyson took shears to Joe Jonas' head as part of stunt. And before presenting the choice hottie awards, comedian Dane Cook pleaded to Vanessa Hudgens to keep her clothes on.

The Teen Choice Awards is scheduled to air Monday at 8 p.m. EDT on Fox.

Xu Jinglei creates high-fashion Du Lala

Chinese director-actress Xu Jinglei promotes her upcoming film "Du Lala's Promotion" with American costume designer Patricia Field and cast members at a press conference in Beijing on August 6, 2009.

Chinese director Xu Jinglei is working with celebrated American costume designer Patricia Field to make her office politics film a show of office fashion.

Xu has invited Field, who has won several awards for designing costumes for the stylish television series "Sex and the City" to be a costume advisor for "Du Lala's Promotion", Sina.com.cn reports.

Field showed up Thursday with Xu and the film's cast members at a press conference in Beijing. The fashion guru told reporters her experience in China had been pleasant.

"Du Lala's Promotion", adapted from a bestselling Chinese novel of the same name, centers on a woman named Du Lala who takes the high road to get promoted.

Xu Jinglei, who is also a popular actress, plays the lead character. The film also boasts a cast of fashionistas, including model-turned actresses Pace Wu and Li Ai, as well as hip-hop star Stanley Huang.

"Du Lala" is Xu's fourth film as a director. It is scheduled to be released next spring.

Amy Winehouse calls Caribbean home

Amy Winehouse likes being back in the UK, but considers the Caribbean her home.

The 'Back To Black' singer returned to her native England last month to work on her third album, but said she plans to return to her adopted home, the island of St Lucia, where she enjoyed an extended break earlier this year.

She said: "I'm going to be in London for a while now. I'm not going to go home for a while.

"I've got a lot of stuff with my record company to sort out. This is a new chapter for me. I've got some things we're very excited about, definitely. I like being back."

Amy – who was recently granted the first stages in a divorce from husband Blake Fielder-Civil – also said she has no plans to find another man, and made reference to her heartbreak, saying: "Cry yourself to sleep because that obviously helps."

The 25-year-old singer also admitted she doesn't have much of a head for the business side of her success, which includes her own label, Lioness - to which she has signed her teenage goddaughter, Dionne Bromfield.

Amy added to Britain's News Of The World newspaper: "I went into business about seven years ago when I first signed my publishing deal. But I'm not good with that side of things. I'm good at the creativeness.

"The record company director is me, but all me and Dionne do is creative, we're not good at dealing with business. That's not us, that's bulls**t."

Diane Kruger's torture treat

Cast member Diane Kruger poses at the premiere of "Inglourious Basterds" at Grauman Chinese theatre in Hollywood, California August 10, 2009. The movie opens in the U.S. on August 21.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie at premiere of "Inglourious Basterds" in Hollywood

Diane Kruger loved being tortured by Brad Pitt.

The German actress - who stars alongside the Hollywood hunk in Quentin Tarantino's bloody war film 'Inglourious Basterds' - was frustrated she didn't get an opportunity to get frisky with her co-star, but admits being beaten by Brad was a satisfying experience.

She explained: "No, there was none of that. But I did get tortured by him which I guess is the next best thing when it comes to someone like Brad Pitt. Everyone has their tastes and preferences but I'm sure lots of girls wouldn't say no to that!"

The 33-year-old beauty recently revealed she will never marry again.

Diane was left so scarred by her divorce from French actor Guillaume Canet in 2006, she will not wed her current beau, actor Joshua Jackson, until they have been together for at least 30 years.

She said: "I've been with Josh three years now. We lived together in New York for a while. Will we move in together properly? I don't know. But after three years, it would be the natural thing to do.

"I'm not saying marriage, but definitely kids, eventually. But not right now. I won't ever marry again. Does it matter if you sign a piece of paper? It doesn't make it last. I would get married to Josh at 60 if we were still together because then it really means something if you say it's for life."

Rehab wrecking reveller Mischa Barton

Mischa Barton's friends fear her partying could jeopardise her rehabilitation and health.

The former 'O.C.' actress - who was placed under involuntary psychiatric hold at Los Angeles' Cedars-Sinai Medical Center last month - has infuriated her close pals by partying at the All Points West music festival in New York just days after her release from hospital.

Family friend Eric Ziegenbein told Heat magazine: "It's scary to see her out right after she's received treatment. When I found out she'd been partying again, I was shocked. I thought she would chill out for a bit.

"The fact she was out right away proves she's not taking things seriously enough. It was like a big 'f**k you.' She's too proud and independent sometimes."

The 23-year-old starlet spent two weeks under a 5150 hold - which allows people to be forcibly held if they are deemed a danger to themselves or others, are gravely disabled or have a mental disorder - after friends became concerned she was suicidal.

It has been alleged the actress' drink and drug use was affecting her career and personal.

Another friend, Suzanne Coppin, is frustrated Mischa isn't listening to the advice of loved ones and is trying to deal with her problems alone.

She explained: "She has a support group, but it's obvious she's ignoring them. I'm disappointed she's not taking advice and is still doing her own thing."

This is not the first time the actress's friends have voiced concerns about her wellbeing.

Earlier this month, they openly expressed their fears she had returned to work on her new TV series 'The Beautiful Life' too soon after leaving hospital.

One said: "There still are issues. Mischa's just not herself at all. I think she's gone back to work too soon."

Lindsay Lohan's creamy start

Lindsay Lohan puts whipped cream on her morning cereal.

The 'Mean Girls' actress is such a fan of the fattening dairy treat she can't bare to have a meal without it, and even slathers it over her breakfast.

A source said: "Lohan shared this personal food fact - she loves whipped cream so much, she even puts it on her oatmeal in the morning."

The 23-year-old actress let her guilty food secret slip while out celebrating her on/off girlfriend Samantha Ronson's 32nd birthday on Friday (07.08.09).

Samantha was due to DJ at Chicago's Hotel Sax's Crimson Lounge, and was amazed when Lindsay and her younger sister Ali Lohan flew to the US city to surprise her on her special day.

The trio and a group of friends ate dinner at eatery Hub 51, where they munched chicken and steak tacos followed by carrot cake.

Lindsay - who has completed three stints in rehab - and Samantha frequently went outside to smoke cigarettes, prompting an onlooker to chastise her.

Lindsay replied: "This is far from the worst thing I've ever done to my body!"

The group then went to watch Samantha perform, after which they moved on to nightspot Angels and Kings.

Pamela Anderson's personality performance

Pamela Anderson has a "split personality".

The former 'Baywatch' actress - who is currently dating surfer-and-electrician Jamie Padgett - loves showing off by becoming different characters.

She said: "I have a split personality. My boyfriend would tell you that I play a lot of characters. As soon as the camera comes out, I assume another role. People never think I am much of an actress, but it's always a performance for me. I am a bit of an exhibitionist.

"I am who I am. No apologies, no excuses. I'm not here for anyone's approval."

Pamela - who was previously married to Tommy Lee, Kid Rock and Rick Salomon - accepts she has a "wild" past, but now resists the temptations of partying by staying at home with her sons, 13-year-old Brandon and Dylan, 11.

The 42-year-old blonde star explained: "I'm no angel. I do try. I've been wild and crazy, I'll admit that. I've been around everything you can think of, but when I've misbehaved I've always managed to stop myself. 'What am I doing? Come on, I'm a mother!' I enjoyed all those moments though.

"Now and again I might drink champagne, but the real craziness is in the past. My kids saved my life."

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie at premiere of "Inglourious Basterds" in Hollywood

Cast member Brad Pitt and his partner actress Angelina Jolie pose at the premiere of "Inglourious Basterds" at Grauman Chinese theatre in Hollywood, California August 10, 2009. The movie opens in the U.S. on August 21.

Police search home of accused Miley Cyrus stalker

In a Sunday, June 7, 2009 photo, actress and singer Miley Cyrus arrives at the 20th anniversary Time for Heroes Celebrity Carnival in Los Angeles.

Police on Thursday searched the home of a 53-year-old man jailed on charges he attempted to stalk Miley Cyrus during filming of her new movie on the Georgia coast.

Capt. Steve Morris of the Columbia County Sheriff's Department did not say what investigators were looking for at the Appling home of Mark McLeod, who told police he's secretly engaged to marry the 16-year-old "Hannah Montana" star. The search warrant was sealed by a judge.

McLeod told a Tybee Island police officer who arrested him in June that he had "thousands of pictures and letters to Miley on his computer," according to a police report.

McLeod was arrested Tuesday on a charge of attempted stalking, a misdemeanor, after security guards for Walt Disney Pictures reported McLeod had returned to the filming location on Tybee Island asking where he could find Cyrus.

Police say McLeod had been warned to stay away from the island, 12 miles east of Savannah, after he was charged June 22 with disorderly conduct and obstruction of a police officer for trying to cross a security perimeter at the movie set. McLeod told police he wanted to see Cyrus, claiming she was his fiancee and sent him secret messages through her TV show.

Tybee Island Police Chief Jim Price would not comment on the search of McLeod's home, 180 miles from where Cyrus is filming the movie "The Last Song."

McLeod remained jailed in Chatham County on a $55,200 bond. McLeod told a judge Wednesday he did not have an attorney. He has requested a court-appointed lawyer.

Victoria Beckham to Judge on 'Idol' after Abdul exit

Paula Abdul will leave "American Idol" in the coming season.

Former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham is to serve as a guest judge on hit US television show "American Idol" following the departure of Paula Abdul, network executives said Thursday.

Pop star Beckham would join the panel of judges along with singer-songwriter Katy Perry during the audition phase of the show, the Fox Broadcasting production that is the highest-rating program on US television.

Other pop stars would join the four member panel, Fox Broadcasting Entertainment chairman Peter Rice said, without identifying them.

"Between now and January we'll come up with a more permanent solution," Rice told journalists. Guest judges would serve alongside regulars Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi, he said.

Rice said the departure of Abdul, confirmed on Tuesday as the show prepared for its ninth season, would bring a "different dynamic" to the programme.

"There will be a different element, a different energy," Rice said, revealing that Abdul had been offered an improved contract after a previous agreement which expired in May.

"We have been talking to her for most of the season," Rice said. "We very much wanted her to return. In the past few weeks, the negotiations have come to a conclusion.

"We made an offer that we feel was very fair to Paula. It was a substantial raise on the money she's been paid in the past and Paula has decided not return. It is something that was not our choice."

"American Idol" was exported to the United States from Britain in 2002, rapidly establishing itself as the most watched show on US television and a pop-culture phenomenon.

The program aims to unearth the next big singing talent and past contestants such as Carrie Underwood and Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Hudson have gone on to forge successful careers in the entertainment industry.

Abdul meanwhile is being tipped to resurface as a judge on another US television hit "So You Think You Can Dance."

"I don't know anyone who has the experience she has -- dancer, performer, choreographer and judge," the show's executive producer Nigel Lythgoe said.

"I have been trying to get her since season one."

No third autopsy planned for Michael Jackson

A rumoured third autopsy on late singer Michael Jackson will not transpire, it has emerged.

The King Of Pop's mother Katherine had previously revealed that she does not believe that her son died of natural causes.

This led to speculation that she had asked for another post mortem to be carried out on the 'Thriller' star, while the Jackson family had requested that a second autopsy be completed only three days after his death on June 25.

"There is neither a plan nor a need for another autopsy," a source told E!, adding that the samples needed for the procedure - including Michael's brain - have already been removed.

Los Angeles deputy medical examiner Dr Paul Gliniecki explained that another autopsy would be futile. However, toxicology tests could reportedly be performed if the family insisted on it, but the results might be "compromised".

Gliniecki said: "Especially in a high-profile case like this, [the first autopsy] was probably done very well. We can still run tests, but the toxicology results are compromised because they replace blood with embalming fluids. It changes the chemistry.

"During an autopsy, everything is sliced and diced… everything mixes together. Even a second autopsy is compromised."

The results of the first autopsy were delayed last week and are expected to be announced by Friday.

Vanessa become honorary Girl Scout at special Bandslam screening

Actress Vanessa Hudgens attends a special screening of "Bandslam" for the Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles at the Harmony Gold Preview House and Theater on August 7, 2009 in Hollywood, California.

Michael Jackson film deal outlined in court papers

Michael Jackson waves to the crowd, numbering a few thousand, gathered in front of the Sydney Opera House in this November 17, 1996 file photo.

Columbia Pictures and concert promoter AEG Live have struck a deal to make a Michael Jackson movie using video of his "This Is It" concert rehearsals taken days before the King of Pop died in June, according to court documents.

A Los Angeles Superior Court judge must first approve the deal at a hearing on August 10. AEG Live spearheaded the deal between Columbia, a division of Sony Corp's Sony Pictures Entertainment, and executors of Jackson's will.

Details of the movie agreement, and the $60 million in revenue that Columbia has agreed to pay for the film rights, were released in court papers filed late on Tuesday.

Jackson's estate and AEG Live, which is controlled by Denver billionaire Philip Anschutz, will share in profits from the film with the estate getting 90 percent and AEG Live getting 10 percent, court documents showed.

Spokesmen for both Columbia and AEG Live declined comment.

Media reports have circulated since last month of a possible movie deal using the more than 100 hours of rehearsal footage AEG Live shot as the "Thriller" singer prepared for a series of 50 shows in London.

Those concerts were widely billed as Jackson's "comeback" after his career flagged in the 1990s and 2000s, but he died suddenly of cardiac arrest in Los Angeles on June 25, only days before the shows were to begin.

Also tied to the movie deal is a merchandising agreement with Bravado International Group, a division of Universal Music Group that is owned by Vivendi SA and will see to the sale of Jackson-themed products.

That agreement needs to be approved by L.A. Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff, who is overseeing the probate process on Jackson's will.

MILLIONS IN REVENUE

Howard Weitzman, an attorney representing the executors of Jackson's will, lawyer John Branca and music industry executive John McClain, said this week the deals could generate "millions of dollars of revenue to Michael Jackson's estate."

According to his will, Jackson's estate will be put into a family trust benefiting his mother, Katherine, his three children and charities.

Randy Phillips, the chief executive of AEG Live, said last month that a movie release of the rehearsal footage could help the Jackson estate erase its debt. The 50-year-old "Thriller" singer was said to be $500 million in debt when he died.

Separately, the celebrity news program Entertainment Tonight reported on Wednesday that Jackson's family had signed papers clearing the way for him to be buried at Forest Lawn cemetery in Los Angeles.

Plans for Jackson's burial have remained largely a mystery. A public memorial was held in Los Angeles, but Jackson's body has still not been buried pending results of toxicology tests as part of a police probe into the full cause of his death.

Police and U.S. drug agents investigating his death are probing the possible role of doctors who prescribed powerful medication to the singer. No date has been set for the release of an autopsy on Jackson.

A representative from Forest Lawn was not immediately available to comment.

Judge delays sentencing of singer Chris Brown

Chris Brown attends his sentencing hearing with attorney Mark Geragos (R) in Los Angeles August 5, 2009.

A judge on Wednesday postponed the sentencing of R&B singer Chris Brown to make sure his punishment for assaulting former girlfriend Rihanna would include physical labor such as road cleanup.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Patricia Schnegg rescheduled the sentencing to August 27 to give court officials time to arrange the community service that Brown, 20, must perform as part of a plea deal he made in June on an assault charge.

Brown, whose hits include "Kiss Kiss," pleaded guilty to punching Rihanna, 21, until she was bloodied and bruised on the eve of the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles in February.

He agreed to serve five years probation, attend classes on domestic violence and perform 180 days of community service, which is expected to take place in his home state of Virginia.

Schnegg said she wanted to be assured that Brown would be doing physical work as part of his community service.

The incident between the two young singers sparked an outcry from their fans and groups that offer support and services to victims of domestic abuse.

Last month Brown issued his first public apology, calling his loss of control that night in February, "unacceptable, 100 percent," and asking for forgiveness.

Sienna Miller not 'nice'

Sienna Miller admits she doesn't come across as a "nice" person.

The 'G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra' actress - who had an affair with married father-of-four Balthazar Getty last year - realises her actions have not endeared her to the public.

She said: "It probably looked awful. I probably seem like not a particularly nice person, not a girl's girl."

Although the 27-year-old beauty admits she could have handled the situation better, she blames some of her behaviour on her rebellious streak.

Sienna - who has previously dated Jude Law and Rhys Ifans - said in an interview with GQ magazine: "I've never been someone who has conformed, and I think my response to that level of attention was to pretend it didn't exist.

"The situation I got into was not ideal but it happened and if I could go back and be more responsible, I would.

"Well, I probably would be less naive about ignoring the fact that people care. I've always kind of done exactly what my instincts said. I have a good brain on me but I've never really used it when it came to making decisions about love, which has been a blessing and a curse."

However, Sienna - who is single at the moment - insists she's not going to live her life by what other people think.

She said: 'I definitely have been foolish. I've made apologies to people I needed to, but I can't apologise to people I don't know for things they don't understand."

Penelope Cruz pregnant?

Spanish actress Penelope Cruz arrives to the German premier of the film "Broken Embraces" in Berlin, August 3, 2009.

Penelope Cruz arrives to the German premier of the film "Broken Embraces" in Berlin

Penelope Cruz is reportedly pregnant.

The Spanish actress is said to be expecting her first child with long-term boyfriend Javier Bardem.

A source is quoted by website Just Jared as saying: "Penelope is about four months pregnant. She's really healthy now and will be a great mother."

The couple are believed to be thrilled with the news, although no further details are yet to emerge.

Cruz, 35, is currently on a promotional tour for her new movie 'Broken Embraces', and when she attended the UK premiere in London she wore a red Bottega Veneta trouser suit, which was sourced for her at the last minute.

At the time it was reported her luggage went missing on the flight to the UK capital from Madrid, but speculation is now rife she wore the high-waisted outfit to disguise her fledgling baby bump.

At the German premiere in Berlin on Monday (03.08.09) Cruz donned a one-shoulder, floor-length gown which could disguise any signs of the pregnancy.

Cruz - who previously dated Tom Cruise and Matthew McConaughey - recently revealed she wants to fully commit to motherhood when she starts a family.

She told Psychologies magazine: "When I have babies, I want to do it really well. I want it to be my best project in life. I don't know if I believe in marriage. But I believe in family, love and children."

Beyonce Knowles leads way at VMAs

Beyonce Knowles and Lady Gaga have been nominated for nine MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs).

Both pop stars are up for the prestigious Video of the Year and Best Female Video accolades, Beyonce for 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)' and Lady Gaga for 'Poker Face'.

Beyonce, 27, said: "I'm excited and honored to be tied for most nominated for the VMAs. I've been blessed this year to have 'Single Ladies...' become a video people really connected with and responded to. I've spent so much time watching all the great versions people created all around the world. It's beautiful to feel you touch people and bring a song to life with a video."

Lady Gaga, 23, said: "After years of hustle in New York City, where we made our art videos in bars, myself and the Haus of Gaga are honored to receive nine nominations for the 2009 VMAs. We believe in the immensity and the promise of 'showbiz' and will continue to give it mouth-to-mouth, until its vomiting return. All you need is a camcorder, a flashlight, and one truly GREAT idea. Thank you MTV for being our video flagship, and for supporting this bunch of inspired kids, who love to get wasted and make art, together."

The two singers will battle it out against Britney Spears' 'Womanizer', Eminem for 'We Made You' and Kanye West's 'Love Lockdown' in the Video of the Year category.

Also competing for Best Female Video are Katy Perry for 'Hot N Cold', Kelly Clarkson with 'My Life Would Suck Without You', Pink's 'So What' and Taylor Swift with 'You Belong To Me'.

Britney has scored seven nominations, including Video of the Year and Best Pop Video for 'Womanizer'.

Eminem and Kanye have each received four nominations. Eminem's 'We Made You' and Kanye's 'Love Lockdown' will battle it out to be crowned Video of the Year, Best Male Video and Best Hip-Hop Video.

The same Eminem track is pitched against Kanye's 'Paranoid' in the Best Special Effects category.

Pink and Green Day have been confirmed to perform at the ceremony, to be held in New York on September 13, with other acts to follow.

The event will be hosted by British comic star Russell Brand for the second year running, and Katy Perry, Ne-Yo and 'Gossip Girl' star Chace Crawford will all present prizes.

MTV Video Music Awards 2009 full list of nominations:

Video of The Year:

Britney Knowles - 'Womanizer'

Beyonce - 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)'

Lady Gaga - 'Poker Face'

Eminem - 'We Made You'

Kanye West - 'Love Lockdown'

Best Pop Video:

Beyonce Knowles - 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)'

Lady Gaga - 'Poker Face'

Britney Spears - 'Womanizer'

Cobra Starship featuring Leighton Meester - 'Good Girls Go Bad'

Wisin and Yandel - 'Abusadora'

Best Female Video:

Katy Perry - 'Hot N Cold'

Beyonce Knowles - 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)'

Kelly Clarkson - 'My Life Would Suck Without You'

Lady Gaga - 'Poker Face'

Taylor Swift - 'Belong With Me'

Pink - 'So What'

Best Male Video:

Eminem - 'We Made You'

Kanye West - 'Love Lockdown'

Jay-Z - 'D.O.A'

T.I. featuring Rihanna - 'Live Your Life'

Ne-Yo - 'Miss Independent'

Best New Artist:

Lady Gaga - 'Poker Face'

Drake - 'Best I Ever Had'

3OH!3 -'Don't Trust Me'

Kid Cudi - 'Day N' Nite'

Asher Roth - 'I Love College'

Best Rock Video:

Coldplay - 'Viva La Vida'

Kings of Leon - 'Use Somebody'

Green Day - '21 Guns'

Fall Out Boy 'I Don't Care'

Paramore - 'Decode'

Best Hip-Hop Video:

Eminem - 'We Made You'

Kanye West - 'Love Lockdown'

Jay-Z - 'D.O.A'

Asher Roth - 'I Love College'

Flo Rida - 'Right Round'

Best Choreography:

Beyonce Knowles - 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)'

Britney Spears - 'Circus'

Ciara featuring Justin Timberlake - 'Love Sex Magic'

Pussycat Dolls featuring Nicole Scherzinger - 'Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny)'

Kristina DeBarge - 'Goodbye'

Best Direction:

Beyonce Knowles - 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)'

Lady Gaga - 'Paparazzi'

Green Day - '21 Guns'

Cobra Starship featuring Leighton Meester - 'Good Girls Go Bad'

Britney Spears - 'Circus'

Best Editing:

Beyonce Knowles - 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)'

Britney Spears - 'Circus'

Lady Gaga - 'Paparazzi'

Miley Cyrus - '7 Things'

Coldplay - 'Viva La Vida'

Best Special Effects:

Beyonce Knowles - 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)'

Gnarls Barkley - 'Who's Gonna Save My Soul'

Lady Gaga - 'Paparazzi'

Eminem - 'We Made You'

Kanye West ft Mr. Hudson - 'Paranoid'

Best Cinematography:

Beyonce Knowles - 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)'

Coldplay - 'Viva La Vida'

Lady Gaga - 'Paparazzi'

Green Day - '21 Guns'

Britney Spears - 'Circus'

Best Art Direction:

Beyonce Knowles - 'Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)'

Coldplay - 'Viva La Vida'

Lady Gaga - 'Paparazzi'

Britney Spears - 'Circus'

Gnarls Barkley - 'Who's Gonna Save My Soul'

Breakthrough Video:

Death Cab For Cutie - 'Grapevine Fires'

Cold War Kids - 'I've Seen Enough'

Chairlift - 'Evident Utensil'

Bat For Lashes - 'Daniel'

Major Lazer - 'Hold The Line'

Passion Pit - 'The Reeling'

Matt and Kim - 'Lessons Learned'

Trim, relaxed Leno says he's ready for prime-time

Jay Leno speaks during the panel for 'The Jay Leno Show' at the NBC Universal Television Critics Association summer press tour in Pasadena, Calif. on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009.

Jay Leno says comedy will rule on his new daily prime-time series and he'll put stars in cars instead on a couch.

Leno, looking relaxed and trim — the result of running four miles a day, he said — told the Television Critics Association on Wednesday that fall's "The Jay Leno Show" will feature some elements from his old home, "Tonight," but in a far different mix.

For starters, there likely won't be the standard-issue talk show desk. Musical acts will be featured only about twice a week because, Leno said, they play better in the studio than on TV. NBC anchor Brian Williams will be filing stories that didn't make the cut on "Nightly News."

A race track is being built near NBC's Burbank studio for a regular "green car challenge" that will allow celebrities to race electric vehicles, said Leno, an automotive buff with an extensive collection. Other stunts may await guests called on to do more than talk.

Racing fan Tom Cruise called to ask if they'd have a chance to practice — and was told no, Leno said.

The show itself will be fast-moving and will make sure there are laughs heading into the local news on NBC stations. They count on a strong lead-in to sustain their lucrative newscasts.

An opening monologue and popular "Tonight" fixtures including funny headlines and "Jaywalking," in which Leno gives pop quizzes to pedestrians, will be part of the new show. Comedians including D.L. Hughley will do field reports, although Leno said his program won't have a "Daily Show" flavor.

Leno and new "Tonight" host Conan O'Brien will compete for guests, Leno said. But he added that they're pals and it would remain a friendly rivalry.

Leno was asked if he's fretting over being expected to rescue fourth-place NBC.

"I'm not counted on to save the network. The network's on its own," he said.

Leno described himself as getting complacent after 17 years on "Tonight" and said he's excited about the challenge of creating a new show that represents a major change in network programming, taking a 10 p.m. EDT slot typically filled by hourlong drama series.

"If we go down in flames, I'll be laughing," Leno said.

He was asked the source of his breezy confidence.

"I'm rich now," he replied, smiling.