ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
Vanessa Lachey Gives Birth to Baby No. 3, Welcomes Son Phoenix Robert Lachey. Now this is how to celebrate Christmas! Vanessa Lachey and Nick Lachey have welcomed their third child, a baby boy named Phoenix Robert Lachey! The mom of three took to Instagram to announce the exciting news of their baby boy's arrival, which happened on Christmas Eve. "It's a very Merry Christmas indeed! We had our Christmas Miracle. Phoenix Robert Lachey decided to show up early and was born on Christmas Eve. Mommy, Daddy, Camden & Brooklyn LOVE You very much! #LacheyPartyOf5," Vanessa captioned the photo. The adorable picture features newborn Phoenix holding onto his mom's hand. Nick and Vanessa announced in September that they were expecting their third child together, but they didn't reveal until November that they were having a baby boy. Vanessa shared a video on Instagram that not only revealed to her followers that they were going to have a boy, but also broke the news to her hubby! In the video, the 98 Degrees crooner approached the couple's home as he told Vanessa, "I knew you knew!" Cue the boy band's iconic jam "All Because of You." Nick embraced their 4-year-old son Camden, who was holding a giant blue balloon, before kissing Vanessa and their little girl Brooklyn. Too sweet! Vanessa captioned the video, "I have so much to be Thankful for this year... especially our littlest Lachey. When Daddy came home from tour this Summer and we were moving into our new house I shared the news. Now I'm sharing it with you!" Congratulations to the growing family! (Eonline)
Christy Carlson Romano Gives Birth to a Baby Girl Named Isabella. Former Disney star Christy Carlson Romano is a first-time mommy! The Even Stevens star and her husband Brendan Rooney just welcomed their first child into the world together. The actress posted the happy news on Facebook, writing, "Brendan and I are more than thrilled to announce the birth of our daughter, Isabella, on December 24th at approximately 4 p.m. Merry Christmas everyone!" Meanwhile, Romano first confirmed her pregnancy to E! News at the 100th Disney Channel Original Movie premiere, Adventures in Babysitting, in June. "My husband and I are expecting our first child," she told us. "So it seemed only appropriate that I would come back and celebrate with Disney, DCOM style." She also revealed that they were expecting their baby right around Christmas. "December 25! Our due date is on Christmas," the mama-to-be told us. "If anyone knows me, I'm obsessed with Christmas. I also have two Christmas movies coming out around the same time, so it's going to be a very Christy Christmas." Romano and Rooney first began dating in February 2011. Then, Rooney got down on one knee in September 2011 during a gondola ride in Venice, Italy. They finally tied the knot on New Year's Eve in an intimate and beautiful ceremony in Canada. (Eonline)
Steve Guttenberg Is Getting Hitched. Steve Guttenberg is to marry the lovely New York reporter Emily Smith. No, not the editor of Page Six, but the talented WCBS anchor and CBS "Living Large" host, with whom this editor is (amusingly) often confused. The "Police Academy" star popped the question over the holidays, his spokesperson confirmed, and Smith "said yes," we're told. Smith tweeted a pic of the pair flying on a plane on Christmas Eve while reading The Post and the Wall Street Journal. Congratulations! (PageSix)
Kelsea Ballerini Is Engaged! Read All About Her Romantic Proposal. Kelsea Ballerini had a very special Christmas that she won't ever forget! The country crooner revealed that she's engaged to her longtime beau Morgan Evans and spilled all of the details about her romantic proposal on Instagram. "This morning, 9 months and 13 days later, he got down on one knee in the kitchen while I was burning pancackes and asked me to marry him," she wrote next to a photo of the newly engaged duo hugging. Ballerini also managed to show off her brand new diamond sparkler in the sweet image. "Loving him has been the greatest gift of my life. And now I get to do it for life. #HeCalledDibs." Now that hashtag is too cute for words! Evans took to social media himself shortly after his bride-to-be shared the exciting news and he posted the exact same sweet shot. "When you know, you know... she's perfect," he wrote before responding to her amazing hashtag with the following: "#UltimateDibs." Congratulations to the future Mr. and Mrs. Evans! (Eonline)
Kacey Musgraves Is Engaged! See Her Gorgeous Diamond Ring. 2016 is surely ending on a high note for none other than Kacey Musgraves! The singer revealed that she is engaged to her longtime love, Ruston Kelly. The bride-to-be posted the exciting news on Instagram and shared her romantic proposal story along with a photo of her gorgeous diamond ring. It turns out that Kelly popped the question to his leading lady at her childhood home in Texas, a place that undoubtedly holds a special place in Musgraves' heart. "We had just been at my parents' house randomly having a night of watching bittersweet old home tapes of all these beautiful family memories that were made in this little, old country house I grew up in that I now have," she began by writing. "We came back to that house afterwards and he had somehow pulled off having my sister + brother-in-law completely decorate my childhood bedroom in the most nostalgic and perfect Christmas decorations. I was bewildered and confused when I saw it all and turned around... and he was on his knee with a baby pink velvet ring box and the sparkliest ring I've ever seen!" Musgraves gushed further about her proposal, writing, "It was so special. Of all the places in the world I've gotten to see, nowhere could mean more than this happening in tiny Golden, Texas in the house that completely made me who I am." Now if that's not an amazing proposal, we don't know what is. Congratulations to Musgraves and Kelly on their exciting engagement news! (Eonline)
Brittany Daniel Is Engaged to Boyfriend Adam Touni. Engagement season really has begun! Sweet Valley High actress Brittany Daniel is engaged to her boyfriend Adam Touni. The couple announced the news on Instagram, where they both shared pictures that put the gorgeous sparkler on display. "I said yes! My world just became brighter today," Daniel captioned her very-smiley picture. "#engagement #christmas #love #proposal #marinheadlands #family @adam.touni." The real estate broker's photo showed them kissing while putting the diamond front and center. "She said 'yes'! In the words of my fiance, @iambdaniel 'Merry Christmas, y'all!' #engagementring #engaged #christmasengagement #christmaspresent," Touni captioned his picture. The exciting news is another win for Daniel, who also beat Stage IV non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2014. Daniel was diagnosed in 2011 after experiencing excruciating back pain, night sweats and flu-like symptoms, but chose to conceal it because her dad had passed away. "It happened so suddenly," she told People magazine. "There is no way I would have ever gotten through this without my family. My family is everything to me and I feel like they saw me through this." Daniel credited her family and her father's battle with cancer for giving her the strength to fight the disease. "When you have cancer, you are pretty scared," she said. "You think you are going to die. I was Stage IV. I was really bad off. But I remember thinking, 'I am getting through this. I am not dying from this.' And I think that that is so my dad. That is my dad's strength." She added, "I remember just going into this warrior mode. I just feel like that was my dad. I feel like he was a big part of me getting through it, even though he wasn't there." (Eonline)
It'll Be a Boy for Shay Mooney and Hannah Billingsley! See the Meaningful Name They Chose for Their First Child. Shay Mooney and Hannah Billingsley had a "blue" Christmas! The parents-to-be shared matching Instagram posts Saturday revealing that their first child on the way is a boy -- as well as the name they've picked out for him. "We can't wait to meet you Asher James. I already love you more than I thought I was capable of. Seeya soon little man," the Dan + Shay member, 24, captioned a gorgeous snap of his fiancee cradling her baby bump amidst a fall landscape. "I pray that our baby is just like you," Mooney addressed Billingsley in his text, adding jokingly. "If they're anything like me, we got a long road ahead." The former Miss Arkansas USA, 25, used the opportunity on her own post -- which features the same shot, zoomed out for her followers to see more of the beautiful autumn foliage -- to share the meaning being the name they picked. "Asher-A name meaning fortunate; blessed; happy one.. @shaymooney and I are all of those things and more," she wrote. "God has truly honored us with the privilege of being the parents of this sweet boy. We love you and can't wait to meet you, Asher James Mooney." The couple were engaged in August, and announced the pregnancy on Instagram in October. The next month, Billingsley made her baby-bump debut at the CMA Awards, which she attended alongside her country-singer husband, wearing a nude form-fitting gown complete with a cape. "Thank you for bringing me and bump with you this trip @shaymooney," Billingsley captioned a belly shot from the couple's Hawaiian babymoon in November. "This has to be one of the most beautiful places on earth, and I get to share it with you." (People)
Carrie Fisher's Mother Debbie Reynolds Gives Update on Daughter's Health, Thanks Fans for Their Support. Carrie Fisher's mother Debbie Reynolds is speaking out just days after the Star Wars actress suffered a heart attack. This marks the first time that the 84-year-old actress has addressed her daughter's health following the Friday incident. "Carrie is in stable condition. If there is a change, we will share it." The Singin' in the Rain star added, "For all her fans & friends. I thank you for your prayers & good wishes." The tweet comes on the heels of Fisher's half-sister Joely Fisher taking to Instagram to share a family photo from her Christmas Eve dinner as well as a short, heartfelt message to fans. "The incredible outpouring of love and prayers has been felt... Merry... Happy... Healthy... from our family to yours," she wrote as the caption. E! News confirmed that Carrie was on a plane from London to Los Angeles when she went into cardiac arrest. The Los Angeles Fire Department received a call shortly after noon on Friday and responded to LAX Gate 74. Paramedics were on the scene when the flight landed and provided "advanced life support." Meanwhile, the 60-year-old's only brother, Todd Fisher, told local TV station KABC the following over the weekend: "She's obviously a very tough girl who's survived many things. I encourage everyone to pray for her." (Eonline)
George Michael Dead at Age 53. Singer-songwriter George Michael has passed away at age 53, his publicist confirmed to the BBC. The Brit began his career back in the 1980s with the successful band Wham! and then became a household name after he left the group to start his solo singing career. His publicist told the publication that Michael "passed away peacefully at home." The statement continued, "It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peaceful at home over the Christmas period. The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage." Thames Valley Police told the BBC that a South Central Ambulance Service responded to a property in Goring in Oxfordshire earlier. They also released the following statement which gave a bit more background on the situation at hand: "Thames Valley Police were called to a property in Goring-on-Thames shortly before 2 p.m. Christmas Day. Sadly, a 53-year-old man was confirmed deceased at the scene. At this stage the death is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious. A post mortem will be undertaken in due course. There will be no further updates from Thames Valley Police until the post mortem has taken place." Michael, who was born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou, had an award-winning career in the music industry than spanned for nearly forty years. He was also said to have sold more than 100 million albums all throughout his illustrious career. Michaels went through a near-death experience back in 2011 when he suffered from a severe case of pneumonia. Doctors in Vienna performed a tracheotomy in an effort to keep his airways open while he was unconscious. At the time, Michaels explained to press in a statement that things were "touch and go" during his recovery. Our thoughts go out to his friends and family during this time. (Eonline)
Elton John says he's devastated by the death of his "beloved friend" George Michael -- saying, "I am in deep shock." Elton -- who famously collaborated with George for the 1992 hit, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" -- posted a tribute to his longtime friend on Instagram. "I am in deep shock. I have lost a beloved friend - the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family and all of his fans. @GeorgeMichael #RIP." Michael died Sunday at his home in England. He was 53. (TMZ)
George Michael was reclusive and struggling with his weight in the months before his death. The pics were taken in mid-September at a restaurant in England, and it's apparent the singer had gained a tremendous amount of weight. He was rarely seen out in the months before his death. As we reported, Michael died in his sleep on Christmas Day from heart failure. He had a tradition of attending Midnight Mass at a church near his home, but he was a no-show Sunday. Michael was working on a Showtime movie about his life, which is due out in March. (TMZ)
THE OTHER STUFF . . .
Prince George and Princess Charlotte Steal the Show During Royal Family's Christmas Church Service. It's Christmastime for the royal family! Kate Middleton and Prince William brought along both of their kids -- Prince George and Princess Charlotte -- when they attended their annual holiday church service in the duchess' hometown of Bucklebury. But it was the little prince who seemed to catch everyone's attention as he was seen enjoying a candy cane treat while making the trek to and from St. Mark's church. The toddler smiled at fellow churchgoers while his little sister was carried into the service by his famous mother. George was dressed in a knee-length gray coat with knee-high socks while Charlotte was seen in a black coat with red rights, a red dress and a matching bow. Meanwhile, Kate was as stylish as ever in an elegant burgundy coat with a matching fur collar. Noticeably absent from the morning service was Queen Elizabeth, who was resting at home with a cold. Buckingham Palace released a statement earlier in the day explaining that the 90-year-old was forced to stay home as she "continues to recover from a heavy cold and will stay indoors to assist with her recovery." There were several other famous faces in the crowd for the princess and prince to mingle with, however, like their aunt Pippa Middleton. The newly engaged 33-year-old brought along her fiance James Matthews to the family affair. And while tradition appeared to have changed slightly this year, many members of the royal family still spent the beginning of the holiday at the queen's winter home in Sandringham. In fact, Prince Harry, Prince Charles, Prince Edward and Princess Eugenie were all seen walking to St. Mary Magdalene church near the historical estate. (Eonline)
Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton Celebrate Christmas Eve With Her Three Kids. What's better than spending Christmas Eve with Blake Shelton? Well, spending the holiday with him and getting treated to your very own private Blake Shelton concert. Right? That's precisely what Gwen Stefani and her three sons Kingston, Zuma and Apollo Rossdale got as the group spent the holiday together. On the No Doubt front woman's Snapchat, the country crooner serenaded a group of family and friends while everyone gathered for the holiday. Shelton was on guitar while two of his pals played accordion and guitar in the background. Meanwhile, all three of Stefani's sons donned matching red plaid shirts while Shelton opted for a similar style in black and white. The three kids danced around the living room and played with candy, Christmas decorations and chocolate-filled candy canes during the get-together. But the festivities didn't end there! The entire group enjoyed a family meal together alongside Stefani's father Dennis and her siblings. After the feast, the group opened up some of their stockings to check out the goodies inside and continued to celebrate. Sounds (and looks) like it was a Christmas Eve to remember for the entire family and more! (Eonline)
Miley Cyrus Shows Off Her Christmas Gift From Liam Hemsworth. Liam Hemsworth knows the way to his leading lady's heart. Miley Cyrus showed off one of her Christmas gifts from her man and her selfie proves she's already in love with her present. Cyrus posted a pic of her multicolored earring and wrote, "I [heart] my rainbow moon my dude made fo me." Jewelry for Christmas? Yes, please. Custom jewelry made by Hemsworth? Yaaassss, please. The singer also shared numerous pics of her with her beau in matching reindeer hats and Christmas garb throughout the holiday. But things took a serious turn for Cyrus when she posted a message to her fans about what Christmas really means to her. "Call me the Grinch but Christmas always makes me feel deeply sad. It is filled with so much excessiveness & greed... I just hope everyone gives the gift of love and acceptance this year to not only their own family but those around the globe who don't get everything they wished for due to life's unfair circumstances." She added, "My parents always made Christmas about others and I hope you find it in your heart to do the same! @HappyHippieFdn is what I am most thankful for this year because of the purpose it gives me. Without it I would feel so lost and useless on this planet! Thank you to all those who support our mission and I hope everyone has a magically merry whatever you celebrate! #CelebrateLoveEveryday." (Eonline)
Zsa Zsa Gabor's 'houseboy' dishes on sibling rivalry. Zsa Zsa Gabor was so competitive with sister Eva that she wouldn't give her a freebie from her skin-care line, according to Zsa Zsa's former "houseboy" Aaron Tonken. "I remember dropping off Zsa Zsa's face cream, and she specifically instructed not to leave it [with Eva] unless she wrote a check for $5.25. And when I would return, the first thing she would say to me is, 'Who do you think is more beautiful?'?" Tonken told us. "Eva was always kind, but Zsa Zsa was verbally abusive. I remember always thinking I was working for the wrong sister. Zsa Zsa was only nice to people who met her on the outside briefly," he said. The "houseboy," who says he lived in Gabor's guest house for a year in the '90s, was fired by Zsa Zsa and her husband, and in 2004 Tonken went to prison for defrauding charity gala donors. Zsa Zsa's husband, Frederic Prinz von Anhalt, has come under fire for allegedly throwing lavish parties for a bedridden Zsa Zsa and giving a tawdry tour of the room where she died. But Anhalt said, "She had the most expensive hospital bed. She was not in a coma. It's a total lie. She called me 'darling' every morning. She said only about 20 sentences a day, but that was enough for me. My wife is gone. She has gone in peace. Now I really don't give a s?-?-?t about what anyone says," he told us. (PageSix)
The Kardashians have scaled a lot of things back this year -- and one especially long-standing, tradition got the ax -- the Kardashian Xmas card. Sources close to the family say with everything that's gone on this year -- Kim's robbery, Khloe's finalized divorce, Kanye's breakdown, the issues with Rob and Chyna -- the holiday photo just wasn't in the cards. We're told even without the drama, everyone's schedule has been crazy this holiday season, and finding time to get the entire family together would have proved to be next to impossible. We asked Khloe about the card situation at LAX ... but she didn't want to talk about it. Bah Humbug! (TMZ)
The Kardashians have scaled a lot of things back this year -- and one especially long-standing, tradition got the ax -- the Kardashian Xmas card. Sources close to the family say with everything that's gone on this year -- Kim's robbery, Khloe's finalized divorce, Kanye's breakdown, the issues with Rob and Chyna -- the holiday photo just wasn't in the cards. We're told even without the drama, everyone's schedule has been crazy this holiday season, and finding time to get the entire family together would have proved to be next to impossible. We asked Khloe about the card situation at LAX ... but she didn't want to talk about it. Bah Humbug! (TMZ)
Sakes Fifth Avenue Is Not Happy About This Sign. New York's Museum of Sex may have gotten itself into a naughty tangle with Saks Fifth Avenue. Mischievous staff at the museum, which is located at 233 Fifth Ave., decided to spread some holiday cheer by festooning their windows with signs that read "Sex Fifth Avenue" in the exact same -- and very recognizable -- font from the Saks Fifth Avenue logo. Below the museum's "Sex Fifth Avenue" sign, other wording read, "A mixture of vulgarity, playfulness, inventiveness, crudity, childishness and mischievous provocation." The Museum of Sex holiday windows offer a stark contrast of wares to those seen in the iconic holiday windows at the Saks NYC flagship store about 30 blocks north. Behind the museum's "Sex Fifth Avenue" sign on display appeared to be a variety of lubes, sex toys, a racy studded-leather bondage outfit, plus Playboy bunny gear. A source tells us, "Apparently Saks called in the lawyers and asked the folks at the Museum of Sex to remove the signs immediately. They do not want any customer confusion." Reps for Saks and the museum didn't get back to us. (PageSix)
LAST WEEK:
Queen Elizabeth II's Granddaughter Zara Tindall Suffers Miscarriage. Zara Tindall, Queen Elizabeth II's granddaughter, has suffered a miscarriage while pregnant with her and husband Mike Tindall's second baby, a spokesperson for the couple said Saturday, Christmas Eve. The two had announced her pregnancy three weeks ago, saying they were set to welcome their new child in the spring. The baby was to be the queen's sixth great-grandchild. "Very sadly, Zara and Mike Tindall have lost their baby," the couple's spokesperson said in a statement. "At this difficult time, we ask that everyone respects their privacy." Buckingham Palace declined to comment on a private matter. Zara, a 35-year-old champion equestrian who made her Olympic debut at the 2012 London Games, and Mike, a 38-year-old former England rugby player, were last seen in public Tuesday, in a car en route to a Christmas lunch the queen hosted for her Royal family members at Buckingham Palace in London. Zara and Mike have been married since 2011 and share daughter Mia Grace Tindall, 2. Zara is 16th in line to the British throne. Her mother is Anne, Princess Royal, the queen's daughter and second of her four children. Anne's older brother is Prince Charles, William and Harry's father and first in line to the throne. Zara is expected to spend Christmas with her family at their Gatcombe Park country estate home in Gloucestershire, her mother's residence, Sky News reported. (Eonline)
Miley Cyrus & Liam Hemsworth Attend His Family's Holiday Party and Wear Zany Christmas Sweaters. Miley Cyrus and fiance Liam Hemsworth may be the most festive couple yet this holiday season. The two had celebrated Christmas early with her family, including her parents Billy Ray Cyrus and Tish Cyrus, earlier this week. On Friday, they partied with Liam's brother Chris Hemsworth and his wife Elsa Pataky. Liam posted on his Instagram page a selfie of him and Miley wearing zany, red and green Christmas sweaters. Miley also sported a red and green light-up bow in her hair and a necklace of colorful lights. "Happy birthday Jesus," the actor wrote. Elsa shared on her Instagram page a photo of her and Miley embracing. "Fun Christmas Party with my family!" she wrote. "Fiesta de Navidad con mi family!!! Happy Christmas! Feliz Navidad!" The Spanish model and actress also posted a pic of Chris kissing her. She is wearing red pants with a white trim and a dark shimmering halter crop top, while the Thor star sports red and white pajamas. "Best Christmas present ever! A kiss from @chrishemsworth !!!" Elsa wrote. "El mejor regalo de navidad!!' Un beso de de @chrishemsworth!!" The two rekindled their romance following a 2013 breakup and got re-engaged a year ago. In July, they reached an important milestone: They became Instagram official. In fact, Liam has been more active on the social network in general and the two have shared more photos of themselves together more since they got back together. In October, they made a rare public appearance together, attending the Variety's Power of Women luncheon, where Miley was honored. In November, Miley and Liam attended his and Chris' brother and Westworld actor Luke Hemsworth's '80s-themed 36th birthday party. (Eonline)
Ellen Pompeo Receives Twitter Backlash for Using Black Emojis. Ellen Pompeo received some racially-charged backlash on Friday after tweeting with black emojis. The actress shared a tweet in response to A&E about changing the name of their Generation KKK project title, using a black clapping emoji as well as a black thumbs-up emoji. While many people thanked Pompeo for not being silent about the issue, other Twitter users criticized her. Eventually she responded, saying, "What's crazy is how angry everyone is... this is all about emojis people," she wrote, adding, "It was a really positive thing a&e did... now that's not the focus ..my fault for responding." She continued, "But sad to see racism is still alive and well on all sides." Pompeo is married to Chris Ivery (who is a black man), and they have two biracial children together. Thus, she noted, "You do realize...being married to a black man and having black children can make you a target from racist white people right? That's a thing." She eventually apologized for those she offended, saying, "I'm so sad that people attacked me over standing up for equality I'm sad that people chose anger, and I'm sorry if I offended anyone." However, the back-and-forth continued for more than three hours Friday night. Meanwhile, this is certainly not the first time Pompeo has voiced her concern over racial issues in the industry. In 2013, she made headlines after she slammed the Emmy Awards for their lack of diversity. "I didn't see any diversity in the Emmys at all," she said in an interview. "The Emmys felt so dated to me...That dance number was embarrassing. Did you see one person of color in that dance number?" She then expressed pride over Grey's Anatomy for breaking down that barrier. "I'm extremely proud of our very, very diverse cast which represents the world I walk around in any day," she said. (Eonline)
Music
Selena Gomez Visits Children's Hospital on Christmas Eve: "There Were Some Tears." Selena Gomez made a rare public appearance Christmas Eve to give back and spread some joy. The 24-year-old pop singer visited patients at Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth in her native Texas. A source told E! News exclusively that Gomez spent time with about 14 kids in the hospital's Child Life Zone play area, where they also decorated cookies. "She was very sweet and amazing with the kids!" the source said. "There were some tears, so it was pretty emotional for some patients." "She was absolutely wonderful and genuine," the source added. "The hospital was so thankful she took time away from her family to visit children who can't be home this Christmas." "Thank you @selenagomez for stopping by the Child Life Zone this morning to visit with our patients and families who weren't able to be home this Christmas Eve! #selenagomez #christmaseve #tistheseason #holidayseason," read a post shared on one of the hospital's Instagram pages Saturday. Gomez also spent time with a patient named Madison, who is a big fan. "Selena came to see Madison today!" her mother wrote, alongside a photo of the singer hugging the little girl in her hospital bed. "Love that she took time out of her busy schedule to make her day!" "Shelby and Madison both remember watching her on Barney, Wizards of Waverly Place and have been listening to her music for years!" she said. "Such a great gift of kindness she showed us today!! @selenagomez #daughter #lungtransplant #PTLD #chemo #complications #selenagomez." Gomez took a break from the spotlight earlier this year to seek treatment for depression and other side effects of her chronic lupus. She made her first public appearance since her hiatus in November at the 2016 American Music Awards, where she gave a candid speech about her personal turmoil and also talked about body image. She has since been seen out in public a few times. (Eonline)
Mariah Carey Cancels on Choir Last-Minute. Broadway Inspirational Voices, a choir of Broadway artists, is threatening to sue Mariah Carey's management team for canceling their contract two days before they were to start tech rehearsals for her annual "All I Want for Christmas Is You" show at the Beacon Theatre. We're told Carey's management secured BIV earlier this year because the diva "desperately wanted that blend on her show," according to a source familiar with the situation. "Mariah's management team canceled the contract two days before they were to start tech rehearsals. Many of its members, of course, adjusted their professional and personal schedules to accommodate the set gig. And they also had to clear their schedules for a significant period of time prior to Christmas," a source said. The choir's lawyer fired off a letter to Carey's team, calling the termination unacceptable if they did not fulfill their payment obligations under their contract. Carey returned to the Beacon Theatre and performed nine sold out shows earlier this month. (PageSix)
Jackie Evancho is defying what seems to be conventional entertainment wisdom -- that singing at Donald Trump's inauguration is career-threatening -- because she just shot to #1 on the charts. We're told since the America's Got Talent runner-up has signed on to sing "The Star Spangled Banner" on January 20th, her weekly album sales quadrupled in digital downloads and in retailer as well. In fact her album, "Someday at Christmas," had to be restocked twice. Jackie's album jumped to #1 on the Billboard Classical Albums chart. #lastlaugh. (TMZ)
Fans Gather Outside George Michael's London Home to Pay Tribute to the Iconic Singer. Admirers of George Michael have gathered outside his homes to pay tribute to the legendary singer following his shocking death. Grieving fans offered each other comfort as they left flowers, candles, notes and other tributes outside the gate of Michael's London home. One woman was photographed wiping away tears as she took in the scene, while two others embraced. Tributes also poured in from the music world on Monday as the British pop star, who rose to fame with the duo Wham! "I am in deep shock," Elton John captioned a photo with Michael. "I have lost a beloved friend- the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family, friends and all of his fans." Madonna shared her reaction on Instagram alongside a throwback award show post with Michael. "Farewell My Friend," she wrote. "Another Great Artist leaves us. Can 2016 F -- Off NOW?" Michael's Wham! bandmate Andrew Ridgley also shared a heartbreaking tribute. According his rep, Michael was found dead in his country home in Oxfordshire. He was 53. "It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period," Michael's publicist said in a statement. "The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage." In a statement to PEOPLE, the Recording Academy reflected on Michael's career. "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of two-time GRAMMY Award recipient George Michael," President and CEO Neil Portnow said. "During an influential career that spanned nearly four decades, George became one of the most beloved pop craftsmen and respected entertainers. From the enormous success he achieved with pop duo Wham! to his influential solo career, his extraordinary talent had a profound impact on countless entertainers worldwide, and his creative contributions will live on forever. We have lost a cherished artist and our sincerest condolences go out to George's family, friends, and musical collaborators. He will be missed." (People)
Sony has been hacked again -- this time a high-profile cyber attacker hijacked the company's music page and declared Britney Spears dead ... but don't worry, she's fine. Twitter freaked out Monday morning when the official Sony Music Global page posted a tweet that claimed Britney "is dead by accident. We will tell you more soon." A follow-up tweet memorialized her life. Minutes later, new tweets appeared by OurMine Security -- saying Sony's account had been compromised and Britney was alive and well. But OurMine has a major connection to high-profile hacking cases -- they've reportedly hacked Mark Zuckerberg and Google's Sundar Pichai ... while warning they were just "testing your security." OurMine also reportedly hacked Netflix earlier this month. Bottom line -- Britney's alive and someone should hire the people at OurMine before Russia does. (TMZ)
Movies
'Baywatch' Cast Suits Up for Christmas. "From our Baywatch family to yours!" The cast of Baywatch is on display for Christmas. The movie's official Twitter account posted a Christmas-themed ad for the action film's May 26 release, featuring shirtless stars Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Zac Efron in their iconic red bathing suits and Santa hats. "Ho, Ho, Hot. Merry #Christmas from our Baywatch family to yours!" read the caption. The pair, who play lifeguards Mitch Buchannon (Johnson) and Matt Brody (Efron) in Paramount's reboot of the '90s TV series, are joined by fellow castmembers Priyanka Chopra, Alexandra Daddario, Kelly Rohrbach and Ilfenesh Hadera. The film is directed by Seth Gordon. Chopra shared the poster, which comes with falling snowflakes and the words "Sack Up This Xmas" when it plays. (Hollywood Reporter)
TV
Fuller House Renewed for Season 3: Cast Reveals News in Christmas Eve Video. Well, Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen have another shot at reuniting with their Full House co-stars: Fuller House has been renewed for a third season by Netflix. The news was announced on social media Christmas Eve, via a video starring the current cast members, who pass along a large gift until one of them, Jodie Sweetin, rotates it to reveal the words, "Fuller House season 3 coming soon." "This gift's for you," reads the show's Instagram post. "Fuller House Season 3, coming 2017." Sweetin, Candace Cameron Bure and Andrea Barber reprise their Full House roles of D.J. Tanner, Stephanie Tanner and Kimmy Gibbler, respectively. "We're picked up for Season 3!!!!" Sweetin wrote on Instagram. "Thanks @netflix for the best Christmas present of them all! @fullerhouse Season 3, coming 2017.#fullerhouse #season3." "Oh Mylanta! Christmas came early! @fullerhouse Season THREE, coming 2017!! #FullerHouse @netflix #MerryChristmas," Bure said. The first two seasons of the Netflix comedy have featured recurring appearances by a bevy of Full House veterans including Bob Saget, Dave Coulier, Lori Loughlin and John Stamos. Michael Campion, Elias Harger, Soni Nicole Bringas and Dashiell and Fox Messitn play the new crop of Tanner and Gibbler kids. "On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me... SEASON 3 of @fullerhouse !!! Coming 2017," recurring star Juan Pablo Di Pace ?tweeted. Fuller House season 2 dropped on Netflix earlier this month. There is still no word as to whether the Olsen twins will finally reprise their roles in the third season. Perhaps a Christmas Day gift? (Eonline)
A&E got betrayed and embarrassed by putting it out to the world none of the subjects in the KKK documentary got a penny ... when they actually did. The network has pulled the plug on "Generation KKK," after producers fessed up on XMAS eve they slipped money to some KKK members to "facilitate access." In other words, they were paid. A&E was clear to us a few days ago ... no one was paid because it's against network policies for documentaries and also network officials gave assurances to the Anti-Defamation League no one would like the pockets of the hate group. Thing is ... the subjects of the documentary wanted to sell the idea they were not a hate group but rather a "hate preservation group." Money talked louder than message, so the show won't air on A&E. (TMZ)
Christy Carlson Romano Gives Birth to a Baby Girl Named Isabella. Former Disney star Christy Carlson Romano is a first-time mommy! The Even Stevens star and her husband Brendan Rooney just welcomed their first child into the world together. The actress posted the happy news on Facebook, writing, "Brendan and I are more than thrilled to announce the birth of our daughter, Isabella, on December 24th at approximately 4 p.m. Merry Christmas everyone!" Meanwhile, Romano first confirmed her pregnancy to E! News at the 100th Disney Channel Original Movie premiere, Adventures in Babysitting, in June. "My husband and I are expecting our first child," she told us. "So it seemed only appropriate that I would come back and celebrate with Disney, DCOM style." She also revealed that they were expecting their baby right around Christmas. "December 25! Our due date is on Christmas," the mama-to-be told us. "If anyone knows me, I'm obsessed with Christmas. I also have two Christmas movies coming out around the same time, so it's going to be a very Christy Christmas." Romano and Rooney first began dating in February 2011. Then, Rooney got down on one knee in September 2011 during a gondola ride in Venice, Italy. They finally tied the knot on New Year's Eve in an intimate and beautiful ceremony in Canada. (Eonline)
Steve Guttenberg Is Getting Hitched. Steve Guttenberg is to marry the lovely New York reporter Emily Smith. No, not the editor of Page Six, but the talented WCBS anchor and CBS "Living Large" host, with whom this editor is (amusingly) often confused. The "Police Academy" star popped the question over the holidays, his spokesperson confirmed, and Smith "said yes," we're told. Smith tweeted a pic of the pair flying on a plane on Christmas Eve while reading The Post and the Wall Street Journal. Congratulations! (PageSix)
Kelsea Ballerini Is Engaged! Read All About Her Romantic Proposal. Kelsea Ballerini had a very special Christmas that she won't ever forget! The country crooner revealed that she's engaged to her longtime beau Morgan Evans and spilled all of the details about her romantic proposal on Instagram. "This morning, 9 months and 13 days later, he got down on one knee in the kitchen while I was burning pancackes and asked me to marry him," she wrote next to a photo of the newly engaged duo hugging. Ballerini also managed to show off her brand new diamond sparkler in the sweet image. "Loving him has been the greatest gift of my life. And now I get to do it for life. #HeCalledDibs." Now that hashtag is too cute for words! Evans took to social media himself shortly after his bride-to-be shared the exciting news and he posted the exact same sweet shot. "When you know, you know... she's perfect," he wrote before responding to her amazing hashtag with the following: "#UltimateDibs." Congratulations to the future Mr. and Mrs. Evans! (Eonline)
Kacey Musgraves Is Engaged! See Her Gorgeous Diamond Ring. 2016 is surely ending on a high note for none other than Kacey Musgraves! The singer revealed that she is engaged to her longtime love, Ruston Kelly. The bride-to-be posted the exciting news on Instagram and shared her romantic proposal story along with a photo of her gorgeous diamond ring. It turns out that Kelly popped the question to his leading lady at her childhood home in Texas, a place that undoubtedly holds a special place in Musgraves' heart. "We had just been at my parents' house randomly having a night of watching bittersweet old home tapes of all these beautiful family memories that were made in this little, old country house I grew up in that I now have," she began by writing. "We came back to that house afterwards and he had somehow pulled off having my sister + brother-in-law completely decorate my childhood bedroom in the most nostalgic and perfect Christmas decorations. I was bewildered and confused when I saw it all and turned around... and he was on his knee with a baby pink velvet ring box and the sparkliest ring I've ever seen!" Musgraves gushed further about her proposal, writing, "It was so special. Of all the places in the world I've gotten to see, nowhere could mean more than this happening in tiny Golden, Texas in the house that completely made me who I am." Now if that's not an amazing proposal, we don't know what is. Congratulations to Musgraves and Kelly on their exciting engagement news! (Eonline)
Brittany Daniel Is Engaged to Boyfriend Adam Touni. Engagement season really has begun! Sweet Valley High actress Brittany Daniel is engaged to her boyfriend Adam Touni. The couple announced the news on Instagram, where they both shared pictures that put the gorgeous sparkler on display. "I said yes! My world just became brighter today," Daniel captioned her very-smiley picture. "#engagement #christmas #love #proposal #marinheadlands #family @adam.touni." The real estate broker's photo showed them kissing while putting the diamond front and center. "She said 'yes'! In the words of my fiance, @iambdaniel 'Merry Christmas, y'all!' #engagementring #engaged #christmasengagement #christmaspresent," Touni captioned his picture. The exciting news is another win for Daniel, who also beat Stage IV non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2014. Daniel was diagnosed in 2011 after experiencing excruciating back pain, night sweats and flu-like symptoms, but chose to conceal it because her dad had passed away. "It happened so suddenly," she told People magazine. "There is no way I would have ever gotten through this without my family. My family is everything to me and I feel like they saw me through this." Daniel credited her family and her father's battle with cancer for giving her the strength to fight the disease. "When you have cancer, you are pretty scared," she said. "You think you are going to die. I was Stage IV. I was really bad off. But I remember thinking, 'I am getting through this. I am not dying from this.' And I think that that is so my dad. That is my dad's strength." She added, "I remember just going into this warrior mode. I just feel like that was my dad. I feel like he was a big part of me getting through it, even though he wasn't there." (Eonline)
It'll Be a Boy for Shay Mooney and Hannah Billingsley! See the Meaningful Name They Chose for Their First Child. Shay Mooney and Hannah Billingsley had a "blue" Christmas! The parents-to-be shared matching Instagram posts Saturday revealing that their first child on the way is a boy -- as well as the name they've picked out for him. "We can't wait to meet you Asher James. I already love you more than I thought I was capable of. Seeya soon little man," the Dan + Shay member, 24, captioned a gorgeous snap of his fiancee cradling her baby bump amidst a fall landscape. "I pray that our baby is just like you," Mooney addressed Billingsley in his text, adding jokingly. "If they're anything like me, we got a long road ahead." The former Miss Arkansas USA, 25, used the opportunity on her own post -- which features the same shot, zoomed out for her followers to see more of the beautiful autumn foliage -- to share the meaning being the name they picked. "Asher-A name meaning fortunate; blessed; happy one.. @shaymooney and I are all of those things and more," she wrote. "God has truly honored us with the privilege of being the parents of this sweet boy. We love you and can't wait to meet you, Asher James Mooney." The couple were engaged in August, and announced the pregnancy on Instagram in October. The next month, Billingsley made her baby-bump debut at the CMA Awards, which she attended alongside her country-singer husband, wearing a nude form-fitting gown complete with a cape. "Thank you for bringing me and bump with you this trip @shaymooney," Billingsley captioned a belly shot from the couple's Hawaiian babymoon in November. "This has to be one of the most beautiful places on earth, and I get to share it with you." (People)
Carrie Fisher's Mother Debbie Reynolds Gives Update on Daughter's Health, Thanks Fans for Their Support. Carrie Fisher's mother Debbie Reynolds is speaking out just days after the Star Wars actress suffered a heart attack. This marks the first time that the 84-year-old actress has addressed her daughter's health following the Friday incident. "Carrie is in stable condition. If there is a change, we will share it." The Singin' in the Rain star added, "For all her fans & friends. I thank you for your prayers & good wishes." The tweet comes on the heels of Fisher's half-sister Joely Fisher taking to Instagram to share a family photo from her Christmas Eve dinner as well as a short, heartfelt message to fans. "The incredible outpouring of love and prayers has been felt... Merry... Happy... Healthy... from our family to yours," she wrote as the caption. E! News confirmed that Carrie was on a plane from London to Los Angeles when she went into cardiac arrest. The Los Angeles Fire Department received a call shortly after noon on Friday and responded to LAX Gate 74. Paramedics were on the scene when the flight landed and provided "advanced life support." Meanwhile, the 60-year-old's only brother, Todd Fisher, told local TV station KABC the following over the weekend: "She's obviously a very tough girl who's survived many things. I encourage everyone to pray for her." (Eonline)
George Michael Dead at Age 53. Singer-songwriter George Michael has passed away at age 53, his publicist confirmed to the BBC. The Brit began his career back in the 1980s with the successful band Wham! and then became a household name after he left the group to start his solo singing career. His publicist told the publication that Michael "passed away peacefully at home." The statement continued, "It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peaceful at home over the Christmas period. The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage." Thames Valley Police told the BBC that a South Central Ambulance Service responded to a property in Goring in Oxfordshire earlier. They also released the following statement which gave a bit more background on the situation at hand: "Thames Valley Police were called to a property in Goring-on-Thames shortly before 2 p.m. Christmas Day. Sadly, a 53-year-old man was confirmed deceased at the scene. At this stage the death is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious. A post mortem will be undertaken in due course. There will be no further updates from Thames Valley Police until the post mortem has taken place." Michael, who was born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou, had an award-winning career in the music industry than spanned for nearly forty years. He was also said to have sold more than 100 million albums all throughout his illustrious career. Michaels went through a near-death experience back in 2011 when he suffered from a severe case of pneumonia. Doctors in Vienna performed a tracheotomy in an effort to keep his airways open while he was unconscious. At the time, Michaels explained to press in a statement that things were "touch and go" during his recovery. Our thoughts go out to his friends and family during this time. (Eonline)
Elton John says he's devastated by the death of his "beloved friend" George Michael -- saying, "I am in deep shock." Elton -- who famously collaborated with George for the 1992 hit, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" -- posted a tribute to his longtime friend on Instagram. "I am in deep shock. I have lost a beloved friend - the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family and all of his fans. @GeorgeMichael #RIP." Michael died Sunday at his home in England. He was 53. (TMZ)
George Michael was reclusive and struggling with his weight in the months before his death. The pics were taken in mid-September at a restaurant in England, and it's apparent the singer had gained a tremendous amount of weight. He was rarely seen out in the months before his death. As we reported, Michael died in his sleep on Christmas Day from heart failure. He had a tradition of attending Midnight Mass at a church near his home, but he was a no-show Sunday. Michael was working on a Showtime movie about his life, which is due out in March. (TMZ)
THE OTHER STUFF . . .
Prince George and Princess Charlotte Steal the Show During Royal Family's Christmas Church Service. It's Christmastime for the royal family! Kate Middleton and Prince William brought along both of their kids -- Prince George and Princess Charlotte -- when they attended their annual holiday church service in the duchess' hometown of Bucklebury. But it was the little prince who seemed to catch everyone's attention as he was seen enjoying a candy cane treat while making the trek to and from St. Mark's church. The toddler smiled at fellow churchgoers while his little sister was carried into the service by his famous mother. George was dressed in a knee-length gray coat with knee-high socks while Charlotte was seen in a black coat with red rights, a red dress and a matching bow. Meanwhile, Kate was as stylish as ever in an elegant burgundy coat with a matching fur collar. Noticeably absent from the morning service was Queen Elizabeth, who was resting at home with a cold. Buckingham Palace released a statement earlier in the day explaining that the 90-year-old was forced to stay home as she "continues to recover from a heavy cold and will stay indoors to assist with her recovery." There were several other famous faces in the crowd for the princess and prince to mingle with, however, like their aunt Pippa Middleton. The newly engaged 33-year-old brought along her fiance James Matthews to the family affair. And while tradition appeared to have changed slightly this year, many members of the royal family still spent the beginning of the holiday at the queen's winter home in Sandringham. In fact, Prince Harry, Prince Charles, Prince Edward and Princess Eugenie were all seen walking to St. Mary Magdalene church near the historical estate. (Eonline)
Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton Celebrate Christmas Eve With Her Three Kids. What's better than spending Christmas Eve with Blake Shelton? Well, spending the holiday with him and getting treated to your very own private Blake Shelton concert. Right? That's precisely what Gwen Stefani and her three sons Kingston, Zuma and Apollo Rossdale got as the group spent the holiday together. On the No Doubt front woman's Snapchat, the country crooner serenaded a group of family and friends while everyone gathered for the holiday. Shelton was on guitar while two of his pals played accordion and guitar in the background. Meanwhile, all three of Stefani's sons donned matching red plaid shirts while Shelton opted for a similar style in black and white. The three kids danced around the living room and played with candy, Christmas decorations and chocolate-filled candy canes during the get-together. But the festivities didn't end there! The entire group enjoyed a family meal together alongside Stefani's father Dennis and her siblings. After the feast, the group opened up some of their stockings to check out the goodies inside and continued to celebrate. Sounds (and looks) like it was a Christmas Eve to remember for the entire family and more! (Eonline)
Miley Cyrus Shows Off Her Christmas Gift From Liam Hemsworth. Liam Hemsworth knows the way to his leading lady's heart. Miley Cyrus showed off one of her Christmas gifts from her man and her selfie proves she's already in love with her present. Cyrus posted a pic of her multicolored earring and wrote, "I [heart] my rainbow moon my dude made fo me." Jewelry for Christmas? Yes, please. Custom jewelry made by Hemsworth? Yaaassss, please. The singer also shared numerous pics of her with her beau in matching reindeer hats and Christmas garb throughout the holiday. But things took a serious turn for Cyrus when she posted a message to her fans about what Christmas really means to her. "Call me the Grinch but Christmas always makes me feel deeply sad. It is filled with so much excessiveness & greed... I just hope everyone gives the gift of love and acceptance this year to not only their own family but those around the globe who don't get everything they wished for due to life's unfair circumstances." She added, "My parents always made Christmas about others and I hope you find it in your heart to do the same! @HappyHippieFdn is what I am most thankful for this year because of the purpose it gives me. Without it I would feel so lost and useless on this planet! Thank you to all those who support our mission and I hope everyone has a magically merry whatever you celebrate! #CelebrateLoveEveryday." (Eonline)
Zsa Zsa Gabor's 'houseboy' dishes on sibling rivalry. Zsa Zsa Gabor was so competitive with sister Eva that she wouldn't give her a freebie from her skin-care line, according to Zsa Zsa's former "houseboy" Aaron Tonken. "I remember dropping off Zsa Zsa's face cream, and she specifically instructed not to leave it [with Eva] unless she wrote a check for $5.25. And when I would return, the first thing she would say to me is, 'Who do you think is more beautiful?'?" Tonken told us. "Eva was always kind, but Zsa Zsa was verbally abusive. I remember always thinking I was working for the wrong sister. Zsa Zsa was only nice to people who met her on the outside briefly," he said. The "houseboy," who says he lived in Gabor's guest house for a year in the '90s, was fired by Zsa Zsa and her husband, and in 2004 Tonken went to prison for defrauding charity gala donors. Zsa Zsa's husband, Frederic Prinz von Anhalt, has come under fire for allegedly throwing lavish parties for a bedridden Zsa Zsa and giving a tawdry tour of the room where she died. But Anhalt said, "She had the most expensive hospital bed. She was not in a coma. It's a total lie. She called me 'darling' every morning. She said only about 20 sentences a day, but that was enough for me. My wife is gone. She has gone in peace. Now I really don't give a s?-?-?t about what anyone says," he told us. (PageSix)
The Kardashians have scaled a lot of things back this year -- and one especially long-standing, tradition got the ax -- the Kardashian Xmas card. Sources close to the family say with everything that's gone on this year -- Kim's robbery, Khloe's finalized divorce, Kanye's breakdown, the issues with Rob and Chyna -- the holiday photo just wasn't in the cards. We're told even without the drama, everyone's schedule has been crazy this holiday season, and finding time to get the entire family together would have proved to be next to impossible. We asked Khloe about the card situation at LAX ... but she didn't want to talk about it. Bah Humbug! (TMZ)
The Kardashians have scaled a lot of things back this year -- and one especially long-standing, tradition got the ax -- the Kardashian Xmas card. Sources close to the family say with everything that's gone on this year -- Kim's robbery, Khloe's finalized divorce, Kanye's breakdown, the issues with Rob and Chyna -- the holiday photo just wasn't in the cards. We're told even without the drama, everyone's schedule has been crazy this holiday season, and finding time to get the entire family together would have proved to be next to impossible. We asked Khloe about the card situation at LAX ... but she didn't want to talk about it. Bah Humbug! (TMZ)
Sakes Fifth Avenue Is Not Happy About This Sign. New York's Museum of Sex may have gotten itself into a naughty tangle with Saks Fifth Avenue. Mischievous staff at the museum, which is located at 233 Fifth Ave., decided to spread some holiday cheer by festooning their windows with signs that read "Sex Fifth Avenue" in the exact same -- and very recognizable -- font from the Saks Fifth Avenue logo. Below the museum's "Sex Fifth Avenue" sign, other wording read, "A mixture of vulgarity, playfulness, inventiveness, crudity, childishness and mischievous provocation." The Museum of Sex holiday windows offer a stark contrast of wares to those seen in the iconic holiday windows at the Saks NYC flagship store about 30 blocks north. Behind the museum's "Sex Fifth Avenue" sign on display appeared to be a variety of lubes, sex toys, a racy studded-leather bondage outfit, plus Playboy bunny gear. A source tells us, "Apparently Saks called in the lawyers and asked the folks at the Museum of Sex to remove the signs immediately. They do not want any customer confusion." Reps for Saks and the museum didn't get back to us. (PageSix)
LAST WEEK:
Queen Elizabeth II's Granddaughter Zara Tindall Suffers Miscarriage. Zara Tindall, Queen Elizabeth II's granddaughter, has suffered a miscarriage while pregnant with her and husband Mike Tindall's second baby, a spokesperson for the couple said Saturday, Christmas Eve. The two had announced her pregnancy three weeks ago, saying they were set to welcome their new child in the spring. The baby was to be the queen's sixth great-grandchild. "Very sadly, Zara and Mike Tindall have lost their baby," the couple's spokesperson said in a statement. "At this difficult time, we ask that everyone respects their privacy." Buckingham Palace declined to comment on a private matter. Zara, a 35-year-old champion equestrian who made her Olympic debut at the 2012 London Games, and Mike, a 38-year-old former England rugby player, were last seen in public Tuesday, in a car en route to a Christmas lunch the queen hosted for her Royal family members at Buckingham Palace in London. Zara and Mike have been married since 2011 and share daughter Mia Grace Tindall, 2. Zara is 16th in line to the British throne. Her mother is Anne, Princess Royal, the queen's daughter and second of her four children. Anne's older brother is Prince Charles, William and Harry's father and first in line to the throne. Zara is expected to spend Christmas with her family at their Gatcombe Park country estate home in Gloucestershire, her mother's residence, Sky News reported. (Eonline)
Miley Cyrus & Liam Hemsworth Attend His Family's Holiday Party and Wear Zany Christmas Sweaters. Miley Cyrus and fiance Liam Hemsworth may be the most festive couple yet this holiday season. The two had celebrated Christmas early with her family, including her parents Billy Ray Cyrus and Tish Cyrus, earlier this week. On Friday, they partied with Liam's brother Chris Hemsworth and his wife Elsa Pataky. Liam posted on his Instagram page a selfie of him and Miley wearing zany, red and green Christmas sweaters. Miley also sported a red and green light-up bow in her hair and a necklace of colorful lights. "Happy birthday Jesus," the actor wrote. Elsa shared on her Instagram page a photo of her and Miley embracing. "Fun Christmas Party with my family!" she wrote. "Fiesta de Navidad con mi family!!! Happy Christmas! Feliz Navidad!" The Spanish model and actress also posted a pic of Chris kissing her. She is wearing red pants with a white trim and a dark shimmering halter crop top, while the Thor star sports red and white pajamas. "Best Christmas present ever! A kiss from @chrishemsworth !!!" Elsa wrote. "El mejor regalo de navidad!!' Un beso de de @chrishemsworth!!" The two rekindled their romance following a 2013 breakup and got re-engaged a year ago. In July, they reached an important milestone: They became Instagram official. In fact, Liam has been more active on the social network in general and the two have shared more photos of themselves together more since they got back together. In October, they made a rare public appearance together, attending the Variety's Power of Women luncheon, where Miley was honored. In November, Miley and Liam attended his and Chris' brother and Westworld actor Luke Hemsworth's '80s-themed 36th birthday party. (Eonline)
Ellen Pompeo Receives Twitter Backlash for Using Black Emojis. Ellen Pompeo received some racially-charged backlash on Friday after tweeting with black emojis. The actress shared a tweet in response to A&E about changing the name of their Generation KKK project title, using a black clapping emoji as well as a black thumbs-up emoji. While many people thanked Pompeo for not being silent about the issue, other Twitter users criticized her. Eventually she responded, saying, "What's crazy is how angry everyone is... this is all about emojis people," she wrote, adding, "It was a really positive thing a&e did... now that's not the focus ..my fault for responding." She continued, "But sad to see racism is still alive and well on all sides." Pompeo is married to Chris Ivery (who is a black man), and they have two biracial children together. Thus, she noted, "You do realize...being married to a black man and having black children can make you a target from racist white people right? That's a thing." She eventually apologized for those she offended, saying, "I'm so sad that people attacked me over standing up for equality I'm sad that people chose anger, and I'm sorry if I offended anyone." However, the back-and-forth continued for more than three hours Friday night. Meanwhile, this is certainly not the first time Pompeo has voiced her concern over racial issues in the industry. In 2013, she made headlines after she slammed the Emmy Awards for their lack of diversity. "I didn't see any diversity in the Emmys at all," she said in an interview. "The Emmys felt so dated to me...That dance number was embarrassing. Did you see one person of color in that dance number?" She then expressed pride over Grey's Anatomy for breaking down that barrier. "I'm extremely proud of our very, very diverse cast which represents the world I walk around in any day," she said. (Eonline)
Music
Selena Gomez Visits Children's Hospital on Christmas Eve: "There Were Some Tears." Selena Gomez made a rare public appearance Christmas Eve to give back and spread some joy. The 24-year-old pop singer visited patients at Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth in her native Texas. A source told E! News exclusively that Gomez spent time with about 14 kids in the hospital's Child Life Zone play area, where they also decorated cookies. "She was very sweet and amazing with the kids!" the source said. "There were some tears, so it was pretty emotional for some patients." "She was absolutely wonderful and genuine," the source added. "The hospital was so thankful she took time away from her family to visit children who can't be home this Christmas." "Thank you @selenagomez for stopping by the Child Life Zone this morning to visit with our patients and families who weren't able to be home this Christmas Eve! #selenagomez #christmaseve #tistheseason #holidayseason," read a post shared on one of the hospital's Instagram pages Saturday. Gomez also spent time with a patient named Madison, who is a big fan. "Selena came to see Madison today!" her mother wrote, alongside a photo of the singer hugging the little girl in her hospital bed. "Love that she took time out of her busy schedule to make her day!" "Shelby and Madison both remember watching her on Barney, Wizards of Waverly Place and have been listening to her music for years!" she said. "Such a great gift of kindness she showed us today!! @selenagomez #daughter #lungtransplant #PTLD #chemo #complications #selenagomez." Gomez took a break from the spotlight earlier this year to seek treatment for depression and other side effects of her chronic lupus. She made her first public appearance since her hiatus in November at the 2016 American Music Awards, where she gave a candid speech about her personal turmoil and also talked about body image. She has since been seen out in public a few times. (Eonline)
Mariah Carey Cancels on Choir Last-Minute. Broadway Inspirational Voices, a choir of Broadway artists, is threatening to sue Mariah Carey's management team for canceling their contract two days before they were to start tech rehearsals for her annual "All I Want for Christmas Is You" show at the Beacon Theatre. We're told Carey's management secured BIV earlier this year because the diva "desperately wanted that blend on her show," according to a source familiar with the situation. "Mariah's management team canceled the contract two days before they were to start tech rehearsals. Many of its members, of course, adjusted their professional and personal schedules to accommodate the set gig. And they also had to clear their schedules for a significant period of time prior to Christmas," a source said. The choir's lawyer fired off a letter to Carey's team, calling the termination unacceptable if they did not fulfill their payment obligations under their contract. Carey returned to the Beacon Theatre and performed nine sold out shows earlier this month. (PageSix)
Jackie Evancho is defying what seems to be conventional entertainment wisdom -- that singing at Donald Trump's inauguration is career-threatening -- because she just shot to #1 on the charts. We're told since the America's Got Talent runner-up has signed on to sing "The Star Spangled Banner" on January 20th, her weekly album sales quadrupled in digital downloads and in retailer as well. In fact her album, "Someday at Christmas," had to be restocked twice. Jackie's album jumped to #1 on the Billboard Classical Albums chart. #lastlaugh. (TMZ)
Fans Gather Outside George Michael's London Home to Pay Tribute to the Iconic Singer. Admirers of George Michael have gathered outside his homes to pay tribute to the legendary singer following his shocking death. Grieving fans offered each other comfort as they left flowers, candles, notes and other tributes outside the gate of Michael's London home. One woman was photographed wiping away tears as she took in the scene, while two others embraced. Tributes also poured in from the music world on Monday as the British pop star, who rose to fame with the duo Wham! "I am in deep shock," Elton John captioned a photo with Michael. "I have lost a beloved friend- the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family, friends and all of his fans." Madonna shared her reaction on Instagram alongside a throwback award show post with Michael. "Farewell My Friend," she wrote. "Another Great Artist leaves us. Can 2016 F -- Off NOW?" Michael's Wham! bandmate Andrew Ridgley also shared a heartbreaking tribute. According his rep, Michael was found dead in his country home in Oxfordshire. He was 53. "It is with great sadness that we can confirm our beloved son, brother and friend George passed away peacefully at home over the Christmas period," Michael's publicist said in a statement. "The family would ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult and emotional time. There will be no further comment at this stage." In a statement to PEOPLE, the Recording Academy reflected on Michael's career. "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of two-time GRAMMY Award recipient George Michael," President and CEO Neil Portnow said. "During an influential career that spanned nearly four decades, George became one of the most beloved pop craftsmen and respected entertainers. From the enormous success he achieved with pop duo Wham! to his influential solo career, his extraordinary talent had a profound impact on countless entertainers worldwide, and his creative contributions will live on forever. We have lost a cherished artist and our sincerest condolences go out to George's family, friends, and musical collaborators. He will be missed." (People)
Sony has been hacked again -- this time a high-profile cyber attacker hijacked the company's music page and declared Britney Spears dead ... but don't worry, she's fine. Twitter freaked out Monday morning when the official Sony Music Global page posted a tweet that claimed Britney "is dead by accident. We will tell you more soon." A follow-up tweet memorialized her life. Minutes later, new tweets appeared by OurMine Security -- saying Sony's account had been compromised and Britney was alive and well. But OurMine has a major connection to high-profile hacking cases -- they've reportedly hacked Mark Zuckerberg and Google's Sundar Pichai ... while warning they were just "testing your security." OurMine also reportedly hacked Netflix earlier this month. Bottom line -- Britney's alive and someone should hire the people at OurMine before Russia does. (TMZ)
Movies
'Baywatch' Cast Suits Up for Christmas. "From our Baywatch family to yours!" The cast of Baywatch is on display for Christmas. The movie's official Twitter account posted a Christmas-themed ad for the action film's May 26 release, featuring shirtless stars Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Zac Efron in their iconic red bathing suits and Santa hats. "Ho, Ho, Hot. Merry #Christmas from our Baywatch family to yours!" read the caption. The pair, who play lifeguards Mitch Buchannon (Johnson) and Matt Brody (Efron) in Paramount's reboot of the '90s TV series, are joined by fellow castmembers Priyanka Chopra, Alexandra Daddario, Kelly Rohrbach and Ilfenesh Hadera. The film is directed by Seth Gordon. Chopra shared the poster, which comes with falling snowflakes and the words "Sack Up This Xmas" when it plays. (Hollywood Reporter)
TV
Fuller House Renewed for Season 3: Cast Reveals News in Christmas Eve Video. Well, Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen have another shot at reuniting with their Full House co-stars: Fuller House has been renewed for a third season by Netflix. The news was announced on social media Christmas Eve, via a video starring the current cast members, who pass along a large gift until one of them, Jodie Sweetin, rotates it to reveal the words, "Fuller House season 3 coming soon." "This gift's for you," reads the show's Instagram post. "Fuller House Season 3, coming 2017." Sweetin, Candace Cameron Bure and Andrea Barber reprise their Full House roles of D.J. Tanner, Stephanie Tanner and Kimmy Gibbler, respectively. "We're picked up for Season 3!!!!" Sweetin wrote on Instagram. "Thanks @netflix for the best Christmas present of them all! @fullerhouse Season 3, coming 2017.#fullerhouse #season3." "Oh Mylanta! Christmas came early! @fullerhouse Season THREE, coming 2017!! #FullerHouse @netflix #MerryChristmas," Bure said. The first two seasons of the Netflix comedy have featured recurring appearances by a bevy of Full House veterans including Bob Saget, Dave Coulier, Lori Loughlin and John Stamos. Michael Campion, Elias Harger, Soni Nicole Bringas and Dashiell and Fox Messitn play the new crop of Tanner and Gibbler kids. "On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me... SEASON 3 of @fullerhouse !!! Coming 2017," recurring star Juan Pablo Di Pace ?tweeted. Fuller House season 2 dropped on Netflix earlier this month. There is still no word as to whether the Olsen twins will finally reprise their roles in the third season. Perhaps a Christmas Day gift? (Eonline)
A&E got betrayed and embarrassed by putting it out to the world none of the subjects in the KKK documentary got a penny ... when they actually did. The network has pulled the plug on "Generation KKK," after producers fessed up on XMAS eve they slipped money to some KKK members to "facilitate access." In other words, they were paid. A&E was clear to us a few days ago ... no one was paid because it's against network policies for documentaries and also network officials gave assurances to the Anti-Defamation League no one would like the pockets of the hate group. Thing is ... the subjects of the documentary wanted to sell the idea they were not a hate group but rather a "hate preservation group." Money talked louder than message, so the show won't air on A&E. (TMZ)
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