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Labor Day Weekend: Myriad options in Las Vegas packed into four days
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Luxe Life Blog • Archive for June 2009
Update: Master magician Lance Burton lands six-year contract at Monte Carlo
After a two-month absence due to a broken foot, master magician Lance Burton will return to his headliner residency at the Monte Carlo on July 7. It also will mark the start of a new six-year contract he signed today to extend his performances there into 2015. That’s four more years than members of the Las Vegas magic circle originally whispered to us as a sleight-of-hand distraction! Mayor Oscar Goodman presented an official proclamation to Lance that makes July 7 ... Read more...
Exclusive: Next up in Peepshow: Aubrey O’Day of Danity Kane fame?
Singer Aubrey O’Day of Danity Kane fame is being tipped as the next star to be added to the rotating celebrity cast of Peepshow at Planet Hollywood. Look for the blonde bombshell this fall to take over the role first created by Scary Spice Girl Mel B and now held by Broadway’s Shoshana Bean. Shoshana debuted in the role of Peep Diva just last week. Expect platinum blonde beauty Holly Madison, whose addition has led to a bump in ticket ... Read more...
Michael Jackson’s show to go on! Details about London and Las Vegas concerts
Michael Jackson’s spectacular This Is It show will go on, and the late King of Pop will appear in it thanks to high-tech multi-camera footage captured hours before his sudden death. Additionally, you can expect a commemorative DVD and CD recording of his final live rehearsal performance. Solid facts and unconfirmed rumors about the show’s future are growing with intensity as I discovered in four days of exhaustive investigations both here in the United States and in Britain. Although it’s ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Playmate Kelly Carrington has three-night birthday celebration
It was a three-day, three-night, nonstop party for Playboy’s October 2008 Playmate of the Month Kelly Carrington when she celebrated her birthday at the Palms. Kelly began with afternoon festivities at the Palms Pool & Bungalows and continued on after dinner at N9NE Steakhouse to Rain. The next day, she kept the party going with her girlfriends at the Pussycat Dolls concert in The Pearl, followed by more late-night revelry back at Rain. On her third night of celebrations, Kelly, ... Read more...
Lance Burton set to announce new Monte Carlo headliner deal today
It’s official as of this mid-afternoon! Monte Carlo headliner and master magician Lance Burton will confirm the future of his show there, and Mayor Oscar Goodman will be on hand to offer immediate congratulations. Lance has starred in his own theater at the Monte Carlo for the past 13 years, and his unprecedented contract officially ended 10 days ago. In recent weeks, Lance had to take a leave of absence due to a broken foot sustained while climbing back onstage. ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: It’s three months before MGM’s CityCenter opens
An amazing new series of photographs shows the incredible progress of the self-contained city at the center of the Las Vegas Strip. Known as MGM’s CityCenter, it comes complete with its own ZIP code and fire station! Figures have put CityCenter’s luxurious four-hotel complex and Crystals shopping center at more than $10 billion. It’s now just three months until the first of two phases is opened this fall. Then before New Year’s, the busiest visitor weekend of the year, Crystals, ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: PCD creator to audition dancers for new troupe
First it was the Pussycat Dolls, and now it will be The Dirty Virgins. That’s the name top Hollywood choreographer Robin Antin is giving her next new girl group of sexy dancers. In about two weeks, Robin will be return to Las Vegas to audition singers who can dance — or dancers who can sing — to join the new group. They will become the backup beauties for her new residency show at the Palms starring British singer Matt Goss ... Read more...
Miss Playboy Club reaches halfway mark as sixth winner is chosen
Five glamour girls have been named Miss Playboy Club in the monthly contest that began in January. Now the beauty battle has reached the halfway mark with Amber Nicole being picked as Miss Playboy Club June 2009. By year’s end, these six curvy creatures will be joined by another six winners for the first-ever Las Vegas Playboy Club 2010 calendar! Playboy May 2006 Playmate of the Month Alison Waite announced Amber’s win. Playboy prince Hugh Hefner says he will review ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Miss USA 2009 Kristen Dalton visits NVCI and Flamingo
In between her official pageant duties at the Nevada Cancer Institute, Miss USA 2009 Kristen Dalton found time to enjoy some of our desert kingdom delights. Yesterday, Kristen enjoyed brunch at Iron Chef Kerry Simon’s restaurant in Palms Place and then went to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville in the Flamingo for a photo shoot and autograph-signing session. Today, she’ll kick off National Ice Cream Month by unveiling a “Red, White and Blue” banana split sundae at Serendipity 3 at the front ... Read more...
Michael Jackson tickets to be refunded or issued as ultimate souvenir
Michael Jackson’s concert promoters have decided to let fans choose whether to receive a full refund on their tickets to his This Is It shows or, instead of getting their money back, purchase the actual ticket(s) they would have received. The plan was announced moments ago in London — at 5 a.m. Tuesday, which is 9 p.m. Las Vegas time today. AEG Live/Concerts West President and CEO Randy Phillips, who masterminded the 50-concert run for Michael at London’s 02 Arena, ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Michael Jackson rehearsed for show shortly before his death
Just two days before Michael Jackson’s shocking and tragic death, the King of Pop was onstage at the Staples Center in Los Angeles rehearsing for the This Is It show. Michael invited longtime celebrity photographer and friend Kevin Mazur, founder of WireImage, to take the first — and unknowingly — last photos of him singing and dancing for the 50-concert run set to open in London on July 13. Kevin, who photographs all the awards shows and TV spectaculars broadcast ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Holly talks romance after Kendra and Hank’s wedding
It was the busiest weekend of the year for new Peepshow star Holly Madison, and it came just two days after her official debut in the topless burlesque cabaret at Planet Hollywood. Holly flew to Los Angeles on Saturday morning for The Girls Next Door gal pal Kendra Wilkinson’s wedding to Philadelphia Eagles star Hank Baskett. At 2 a.m. Saturday morning in a sexy metallic dress weighing 40 pounds, Holly was ready to wrap a celebration party at Prive in ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Michael Flatley’s Dance and Irish-themed casino plan
Opening weekend performances of Michael Flatley’s new run of Lord of the Dance were so successful that he hopes the show will continue past its initial run through August. I talked with the Irish-American entertainer backstage at the Steve Wyrick Theater in Planet Hollywood as he hugged and congratulated his cast. “We committed to stay in Vegas until August, but I would love to see it run longer. That’s the hope now after the great initial response and reaction,” Michael ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles Photo Gallery: Ashley Hartman’s Tabu bachelorette party
Actress, model and recording artist Ashley Hartman is about to get married, and an entourage of her gorgeous gal pals threw Ashley a bachelorette party at Tabu Ultra Lounge in MGM. All 20 hostesses donned little black dresses, while Ashley stood out in a sweetheart white dress. On the red carpet as she posed with her sisters Audrey and Maria, Ashley proudly showed off her beautiful engagement ring to fans. Ashley, a former Maxim model, is known for The O.C. ... Read more...
Megan Fox’s blockbuster weekend in Las Vegas and at the box office
Mega-movie star Megan Fox celebrated the stunning $ucce$$ of her new Transformers movie with an unexpected honeymoon-styled trip to Las Vegas that began yesterday. The sequel Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen almost single-handedly boosted the year-to-date box office receipts by crossing the $200 million mark within its first five days and earning $112 million over the weekend — that was more than half of all tickets sold! Megan boosted the year-over-year comparison figures by more than 8 percent! “These ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: LiLo celebrates her 23rd birthday early at Wet Republic
Headlines around the world have chronicled the romance between actress Lindsay Lohan and her DJ girlfriend Samantha Ronson. Despite numerous reconciliations between the turbulent twosome, there have been just as many explosive bust-ups from coast to coast. At last word, the split is definite and final, although they will try to remain friends. Samantha did not show up with Lindsay at the weekend party at MGM’s Wet Republic, where Lindsay had an advance 23rd birthday celebration — Lindsay’s actual birthday ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Artie Lange’s wild revelry at Rick’s Cabaret and HRH
For Howard Stern sidekicks comedian Artie Lange and limo driver Ronnie Mudd, it was exactly how they pictured a Las Vegas weekend: Nothing but girls, wild pool parties and all-out, extravagant topless club festivities! It all began at Rick’s Cabaret when several Miss Howard TV winners turned up to welcome Artie and Ronnie the Limo Driver, who were simultaneously filming the more discreet antics for The Howard Stern Show. More than 800 fans showed up to meet 400 of America’s ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Keeping Up With Khloe Kardashian’s 25th birthday at Pure
It was a family reunion for the Kardashian clan when they gathered at Pure in Caesars Palace to celebrate Khloe Kardashian’s 25th birthday. She and sister Kourtney traveled from Miami, where they’ve been filming their new reality TV series about opening a chic South Beach boutique, and big sister Kim, her boyfriend Reggie Bush of the New Orleans Saints and mom Kris Jenner flew in from L.A. First the family, joined by Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin and reality TV ... Read more...
Lindsay Lohan celebrates her birthday with gal pal Brittny Gastineau
When redheaded actress Lindsay Lohan celebrated her 23rd birthday yesterday at MGM’s Wet Republic, former girlfriend DJ Samantha Ronson was nowhere in sight! Instead, Lindsay, according to a member of her entourage who emailed me the details, “loosened up and danced seductively with realty TV celebutante Brittny Gastineau.” Lindsay chatted about the success of her tanning mist Sevin Nyne, her new production company Unforgettable Entertainment and the tragic deaths of Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett. We’ll have all the details ... Read more...
PCD creator Robin Antin prepares to launch Matt Goss and audition dancers
Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin is all set to launch a new residency show at George Maloof’s Palms, and in two weeks’ time, she will start auditioning here in Las Vegas for the first four dancers who will be the backup group with six musicians for handsome British singer Matt Goss. Robin gave me all the details of her new production when we chatted backstage last night at The Pearl, where her Pussycat Dolls played to a standing-room-only crowd. Matt ... Read more...
Lindsay Lohan walks the blue carpet at MGM’s Wet Republic
Actress Lindsay Lohan scowled and smiled when she walked the red carpet this afternoon at MGM’s Wet Republic to promote a new product and celebrate her 23rd birthday early. Lindsay showed up nearly 45 minutes late for her paid appearance to help promote her new tanning mist. The redheaded actress in white cutoff shorts bared her belly button under a black top, and bright red-painted toenails played peek-a-boo through open-toed black shoes. She was not accompanied by her on-off again ... Read more...
Holly jets off to Kendra’s wedding after early morning party at Prive
Peepshow star Holly Madison arrived in Los Angeles this morning and raced off to her final bridesmaid’s dress fitting for this afternoon’s Playboy Mansion wedding of Kendra Wilkinson and Hank Baskett. It was 2 a.m. when Holly called her celebration night quits and at 7 this morning departed on one of the first flights from McCarran into Burbank. After last night’s Peepshow performance at Planet Hollywood, she was feted with a midnight celebration at Prive. Ace lens lady Denise Truscello ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Michael Jackson’s last onstage Las Vegas appearance in 2003
The last time King of Pop Michael Jackson appeared onstage in Las Vegas was during the Radio Music Awards at the then Aladdin Theatre for the Performing Arts in the Aladdin on Oct. 27, 2003. (The venue is now the Theatre for Performing Arts in Planet Hollywood.) In these photos snapped by our ace contributing photographer Tom Donoghue, Michael is presented with the first-ever Humanitarian Award by pop superstar Beyonce. Robin Leach has been a journalist for more than 50 ... Read more...
What insiders say about Michael’s death, and remembering Farrah
Showbiz took a triple blow this week with the deaths of Ed McMahon and early yesterday morning the tragic loss of Farrah Fawcett at age 62 almost immediately followed by the lunchtime news of Michael Jackson’s shocking death. Mystery surrounds Michael’s death as today’s autopsy is about to take place. Insiders tell me with certainty that a full police inquiry is underway and that the focus on the investigation centers on prescription drugs the King of Pop was using — ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: NBA stars party and play at the Wynn and Encore
It was a big night for sports at Blush in the Wynn as Derek Fisher, Luke Walton, Jordan Farmar and Trevor Ariza of the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers joined with New Jersey Nets’ Keyon Dooling and Theo Ratliff of the Philadelphia 76ers for a night out on the town. … Nick Collinson from the Oklahoma City Thunder was at the Society Bar inside Society Cafe at the Encore for lunch and was followed in much later for dinner by ... Read more...
Steve Wynn’s pastry chef is honored as one of America’s 10 best
Congratulations to Las Vegas dessert talent Jenifer Fournier! For the second consecutive year, Jenifer has been named by Dessert Professional magazine as one of the 10 best pastry chefs in the United States. Jenifer works at both Alex and Stratta run by Alexander Stratta at the Wynn. Jenifer won the recognition at a New York City ceremony attended by more than 200 food industry folks. After the ceremony, she served up her peach cylinders and vanilla creme fraiche with compressed ... Read more...
Howard Stern sidekicks and Lindsay Lohan are ready for weekend parties
Las Vegas will totally live up to its reputation of partying to excess this weekend when two opposite worlds nearly collide. Actress Lindsay Lohan arrives to celebrate her 23rd birthday at a Saturday afternoon MGM pool party, and tonight shock jock Howard Stern’s sidekicks will be straddled with silicone at Rick’s Cabaret. The wild, wanton and wasted shenanigans kick off with Howard Stern regular Ronnie the Limo Driver, aka Ricky Man, hosting at Rick’s 30,000-square-feet palace of pleasures with a ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: It’s seven hours of blasts from the past at June Fest
One of the best music festivals of the year had the arena rocking out at the South Point, and our contributing photographer Tom Donoghue was on duty for the festive June Fest event. The blasts from the past thrilled fans who packed the arena presentation by KKLZ-FM. Among the acts were Rick Derringer with “Hang on Sloopy, Styx with Dennis DeYoung performing “Sailing Away” and “Too Much Time,” Grand Funk Railroad with Mark Farmer on “Some Kind of Wonderful,” Al ... Read more...
Did my innocent question about a ring cause Nick and Vanessa’s split?!
When MTV personality, actress and model Vanessa Minnillo turned up in Las Vegas a few weeks ago, I had to ask where was boyfriend Nick Lachey because she’d flown in solo. After a three-year romance, rumors about a breakup had begun circulating. Vanessa shot them down when I asked gently: “There will always be rumors and rumblings, but we are still together.” She went on to explain that the only reason she was on her own was because Nick was ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Holly and Shoshana kick off Peepshow with cast party
Hard on the high heels of last night’s official gala opening of Peepshow at Planet Hollywood with co-star Shoshana Bean, platinum blonde beauty Holly Madison has a helter-skelter schedule over the next 48 hours before returning for two Sunday shows. Here’s our gallery of the photos from the fun and festivities at the casino resort. Enjoy! Holly had her signature platinum blonde tresses touched up before the gala by color king to the stars Michael Boychuck at his Amp Salon ... Read more...
R.I.P., Michael (1958-2009)
We at Vegas DeLuxe are in shock alongside the world at the King of Pop’s death from a heart attack in Los Angeles. Our hearts have been saddened twice today after the passing of Farrah Fawcett (1947-2009), as well, after her long battle with cancer. Michael was 50, and Farrah was 62. Our heartfelt and sincerest condolences to their families and friends. Incidentally, The O2 Arena in London where Michael was set to kick off a run of This Is ... Read more...
Planet Hollywood Premieres: Andrew Dice Clay, Peepshow and LOTD
It has to be some sort of a record even for Las Vegas, where we’ve become accustomed to records being set and smashed. I’ve never heard of three major shows opening on the same night — all within four hours of one another and all under the same roof at Planet Hollywood. First up is the 7 p.m. launch of the new Lord of the Dance touring company by Irish-American dancer Michael Flatley. Hard to believe this love vs. lust- ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Cher signs on as Christina Aguilera’s mentor in Burlesque
It’s now confirmed that our Caesars Palace headliner Cher will join pop singer Christina Aguilera in the new movie musical Burlesque. Remember when Christina was at Tao in The Venetian recently? I grilled her about the teaming, and she was reticent about giving me the full story but dropped enough hints to say that the contract signing with Cher was in the works. Now it’s official that Cher will play the role of a former dancer and now struggling owner ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Happy Anniversary to Phantom at The Venetian
It was a memorable performance at The Venetian for the cast and crew of Phantom — Las Vegas Spectacular. Last night, they celebrated the 3rd anniversary of the Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber blockbuster, and sales at the box office are still going strong. During the curtain call, and before it was lowered, a cake was presented to the cast as the audience gave one more standing ovation. You know my fascination with fun facts: Over the course of three years ... Read more...
At auction: Elvis Presley prescription bottles and Marilyn Monroe items
One of the most extraordinary collections of Marilyn Monroe memorabilia is about to go under the hammer at auction, and as an added bonus for pop culture fans, there are Elvis Presley items from his physician “Dr. Nick.” Dr. George Nichopoulos. The exhibit will be unveiled this evening at Planet Hollywood with a gala viewing preview party and then tomorrow and Saturday the Julien’s Auctions Summer Sale. New Peepshow star Holly Madison re-created the images of Marilyn yesterday in a ... Read more...
Exclusive Photo Gallery: Carrot Top wins six-year contract renewal
It’s an unprecedented six-year contract renewal for zany comedian Carrot Top, and his show at the Luxor will run through 2015 to make a total of 10 years! Luxor President Felix Rappaport confirmed the mega-deal last night onstage with the comic genius at the end of his brilliantly hilarious show. Felix pointed out that in his 20-year comedy career, Carrot Top has played to more than 3 million fans. Carrot Top, real name Scott Thompson, was presented with a unique ... Read more...
Breaking News: Carrot Top lands six-year contract extension at the Luxor
Zany comedian and Luxor headliner Carrot Top has won an unprecedented contract renewal through 2015. The six-year renewal for Carrot Top makes it a 10-year run for him at the Luxor. The deal is a major coup for him, and an announcement by Luxor President Felix Rappaport was scheduled to be made at 10 p.m. after his show. We’ll have more details in the morning, so click back here at Vegas DeLuxe. Robin Leach has been a journalist for more ... Read more...
Exclusive: 2009 Miss America Katie Stam reflects at halfway mark of reign
It’s been nearly six months since Katie Stam won the 2009 Miss America Pageant here at Planet Hollywood, and now as the halfway mark of her reign approaches, she returned to Las Vegas. While in town, she had some time off to visit Donny and Marie Osmond after seeing their show at the Flamingo. She also promoted the pageant’s wardrobe sponsor the Joseph Ribkoff Co. with their trunk show at Paradiso in The Mirage. At Planet Hollywood, which plays host ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Steve Wynn’s Manhattan condo on the market for $25 million
Strip hotel mogul Steve Wynn is selling his Manhattan condo on New York’s prestigious Fifth Avenue as part of his amicable divorce with Elaine Wynn. A $25 million price tag has been put on the entire seventh floor, 3,900-square-foot apartment with more than $4 million in improvements and furnishings. Three of four bedrooms were merged for Steve’s master suite complete with infinity tub. The original dining room in the elegant pre-war condo tower was turned into a huge eat-in media ... Read more...
Mayor Oscar Goodman comes face to face with his ice-cold portrait
It’s uncanny and very cold! Brrrrrrrrrr! Mayor Oscar Goodman came face to face with himself last night inside the Minus 5 Experience bar and lounge in the Shoppes at Mandalay Place. Ice carvers had worked more than 30 hours using a dozen tools and techniques to cut the life-sized color portrait from 550 pounds of ice frozen from crystal clear Canadian water. Our Merry Mayor of Mirth was impressed with his look-alike duplicate mounted on its own ice-blocks stand: “First ... Read more...
Michael Jackson reveals sparkling wardrobe for London concerts
As King of Pop Michael Jackson nears his July 13 premiere of the This Is It concerts in London, he has confirmed that his comeback costumes will be embossed with more than 300,000 Swarovski crystals. That’s more glittering glitz than Liberace ever wore, and Michael’s jackets will be covered with them. Even the glove gets an upgraded extra sparkle and shine! Inside sources in London say Michael’s stage outfits will feature crystallized decorations in more than 53 shapes, 40 sizes ... Read more...
Strip Roundup: LiLo turns 23, Phantom turns 3, and Carrot Top’s contract
With or without DJ Samantha Ronson on her arm and at her side, actress Lindsay Lohan will celebrate her 23rd birthday on Saturday at Wet Republic in MGM. Friends have become increasingly concerned in recent weeks over LiLo’s erratic behavior following the on-and-off again romantic bust-ups between the two ladies. Lindsay also will be celebrating the debut of her new year-round, sun-kissed glow Seven Nyne Tanning Mist, and she promises to personally bronze a bevy of beauties. She will be ... Read more...
Caesars Palace is getting buzz from The Hangover
As the riotous summer hit comedy The Hangover heads toward the $200 million box office mark, it has sparked somewhat of a boon for Caesars Palace, where many of the scenes were filmed. One executive there told me: “We have received many requests to book the suite in the movie: No. 2462. That’s actually a suite we used in the Augustus Tower, but the suite in the movie is a combination of the Rain Man and Emperor’s suites. It’s all ... Read more...
E!’s True Hollywood Story shines spotlight on Criss Angel
Mindfreak magician Criss Angel is on a crazy, near-impossible two-month production whirlwind for Season 5 of his hit A&E series. A large board in his dressing room at the Cirque du Soleil theater in the Luxor stares back at him round-the-clock as a constant reminder of the looming deadlines and all the amazing illusions yet to be shot. “I’m thriving on these 18- to 19-hour days,” Criss told me when I joined him to film two of the new Mindfreak ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Mayor unveils ice sculpture of himself today at Mandalay Bay
Ice sculptors spent 32 hours carving 550 pounds of crystal clear Canadian ice with 10 tools to make a life-sized ice portrait of our Merry Mayor of Mirth Oscar Goodman. Oscar will unveil the creation today at 5:30 p.m. at Mandalay Bay’s Minus 5 Experience, the shopping arcade that connects the Luxor with Mandalay Bay. It’s the first ice portrait of our iconic mayor and will remain on display all summer. Don’t fret — it won’t melt. The temperature inside ... Read more...
Teri Polo’s birthday bash includes deejay set from Joel Madden
It was a jam-packed 40th birthday celebration weekend for Meet the Parents actress Teri Polo. Instead of looking like her preppy looking character Pam Byrnes in the film and its sequel Meet the Fockers, Teri wore a black leather vest and jeans for her visit to the Cirque du Soleil Believe show starring Criss Angel at the Luxor. Teri, her husband Jamie Wollam and two other couples were in such a last-minute rush that they stopped at a hotel sandwich ... Read more...
NHL players discover the good side of Love, and then the naughty side
Since it was the first time the NHL had brought more than 100 of its star players to Las Vegas for its annual awards, it was difficult to keep them away from the attractions of our entertainment and nightclub capital of the world. Vegas DeLuxe reported all weekend long their visits to Rain and Moon in the Palms, Tao in The Venetian, Lavo in the Palazzo, Tryst in the Wynn and XS in the Encore. Two-time 2009 NHL Awards recipient ... Read more...
Justin Timberlake seeks charity golf tournament volunteers — for a fee
Do you want to meet pop prince Justin Timberlake when he comes to town Oct. 12 for his weeklong charity golf tournament to benefit the Shriners Hospitals for Children? The event ends Oct. 18 at TPC in Summerlin. Volunteers ages 18 and older are needed to assist with caddy and transportation services, greeting visitors and ensuring that the admission process runs smoothly. As a volunteer, you’ll work without pay, but you will have to pay a $40 fee, which helps ... Read more...
Star Search friend Ed McMahon will be missed by one and all
I would be remiss if I didn’t mark the sad passing this morning of TV icon Ed McMahon with a personal note. I first met Ed when I appeared on The Tonight Show back in the early 1980s, but we became friends and business colleagues when he hosted our Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous sister show Star Search for a dozen years. Ed and I worked closely together during its run, and he was always the jovial life of ... Read more...
Jonas Brothers kick off 2009 world tour and reveal what to expect in Las Vegas
Grammy Award-nominated platinum-selling recording stars the Jonas Brothers launched their 2009 world tour over the weekend in Dallas to a crowd of about 50,000. Judging by their 100 minutes of songs from three albums, including the just-released “Lines, Vines and Trying Times,” concertgoers here on Aug. 1 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center are in for a wow of a time. American Idol Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks and rising stars Honor Society will open their show here. It’s the ... Read more...
Exclusive Photo Gallery: Holly Madison bares all in Peepshow debut
Platinum blonde beauty Holly Madison went topless the entire closing dance number in her Strip showgirl debut last night in Peepshow at Planet Hollywood. The audience shrieked and stomped their cheers and applause with a standing ovation. The audience never knew that twice on her first night, Holly had to perform split-second improvised changes because of a stage lift that failed mechanically. Playboy Playmate Bunny friends turned up for her debut, and everybody, including the cast and the dancers, gave ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Mel B has hometown visitors for her farewell performances
Coincidentally, the British dodgeball champions hail from Mel B’s hometown of Leeds in Northern England. The Leeds Hawkeyes took on the world champion San Diego Crossfire in the Doritos Dodgeball Challenge at the Planet Hollywood pool deck over the weekend. To add pep to their game, the Leeds lads watched the ex-Scary Spice Girl in her final Peepshow performances, and she greeted them all like long lost family! Mel B’s three-month headliner run ended last night, and she returns home ... Read more...
Star Surveillance Photo Gallery: The Palms is the place to be and be seen
George Maloof’s Palms was wall-to-wall celebrities the entire weekend: Gavin Rossdale ordered miso soup and a filet for dinner at Iron Chef Kerry Simon’s restaurant in Palms Place. … The weekly Ditch Dating Game poolside at the Palms featured our 702.tv host Emily Gimmel of SoapNet’s reality series Southern Belles and N9NE Group’s David Gutierrez, with DJ Eric Cubeechee spinning for the packed party. … Singer Christina Milian and Grammy Award-nominated rapper The Dream were together in a VIP cabana ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Chelsea Handler works, parties and plays at HRH
Late night comedienne Chelsea Handler came in a day early for her standup show at The Rogue Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel so she could party like a rock star! A big fan of Wilco, Chelsea flew in ahead of her own show to watch the band. She was in a group of 20 friends that included Oscar-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody and fellow comedians Chris Franjola and Brad Wollack. After the concert, the entire group partied at Body English. ... Read more...
Julianne Hough lands Footloose offer opposite hot bachelor Chace Crawford
Our favorite Las Vegas dancer Julianne Hough has been offered the lead female role opposite America’s hottest bachelor Chace Crawford in the upcoming remake of Footloose. Gossip Girl heartthrob Chace replaced Zac Efron after he dropped out of the Paramount project. Julianne is now trying desperately to change all of her country singing engagements so that she can be in the Hollywood film as her first major lead role. Footloose, released in 1984, starred Kevin Bacon, Sarah Jessica Parker, Lori ... Read more...
Steve Wynn keeps invite open for Larry King; Garth Brooks has Encore show
There’s still no new full-time resident at Steve Wynn’s Encore Theater after the death of impressionist Danny Gans, but indications are that guest stars Garth Brooks and Larry King will be making return appearances after their debuts there. In fact, according to my colleague Las Vegas podcast prince Steve Freiss, Garth has his second engagement there tomorrow night, but once again it’s a private affair. However, the rumbling keeps growing that this is all to “test the waters” for the ... Read more...
Are Lance Burton and Zowie Bowie on Monte Carlo’s fall schedule?
Rumors are rampant within the magic community that Lance Burton is about to announce a two-year renewal of his magic show at the Monte Carlo. I’m reliably told that the only delay is for Monte Carlo corporate executives to finalize the announcement and press conference plans. The two years would mean an unprecedented 15-year run for the master magician. Click HERE for our initial report June 16 about the renewal. Lance has been recovering from a broken foot and is ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: It’s blood and gore at The Ultimate Fighter 9 finale
A picture is worth a thousand words; thus, several photos can beat anything I could write. Spike TV’s The Ultimate Fighter 9 finale between Team USA and Team U.K. was a bloody affair at The Pearl in the Palms on Saturday night. I’ll leave you to click HERE for the full blow-by-blow report from our colleagues Andy Samuelson and Brett Okamoto at the Las Vegas Sun, as well as an extensive photo gallery. Diego Sanchez may have won the main ... Read more...
Holly Madison is all set for Peepshow in ‘Planet Holly’
Tonight, Playboy beauty and The Girls Next Door starlet Holly Madison makes her topless Las Vegas showgirl debut in the adult cabaret revue Peepshow at Planet Hollywood. “I’m ready for it,” Holly told me. “I’m excited about it. I’m joining the best cast of people in the world. I love the show. I love what I’m going to do. It will be great fun for everybody.” Holly takes over from General Hospital actress and fellow Dancing With the Stars alumnus ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Mel B says farewell to Las Vegas with a soiree at Tabu
Glamorous Scary Spice Girl Mel B and her husband Stephen Belafonte were still dancing with the cast of Peepshow this morning at the Tabu Ultra Lounge in MGM. It was the official farewell party as she wraps up her starring role in the Planet Hollywood topless burlesque revue tonight. Yesterday afternoon before her penultimate Peepshow performance, Mel celebrated her birthday with a party at Wet Republic at MGM. Click HERE for our sexy photo coverage yesterday. Mel began her three-month ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Mel B shows off her bikini beautiful body at birthday bash
Former Spice Girls beauty and Dancing With the Stars knockout Mel B wowed the crowd at her birthday party poolside at Wet Republic in MGM Grand this afternoon. “Jaws dropped in every direction,” according to a spywitness who reported that the Peepshow diva wore not one but four stunning bikinis to show off her amazing figure. Our ace lens lady Denise Truscello was on duty at the hot pool party for these incredible photos. Cast members of Mel’s Planet Hollywood ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Robin Thicke performs surprise concert at the Bellagio
It was almost kept a total secret — and certainly, right up to the last minute, totally unexpected. Executives at the Bank in the Bellagio surprised partygoers early this morning with a performance by star singer Robin Thicke. Robin had headlined Thursday’s live telecast of the NHL Awards at the Palms and performed the opening number with Chaka Khan. Here’s the YouTube video of the show opening: Then after dinner in N9NE Steakhouse at the Palms where I’d joined them, ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Cher talks about her daughter’s sex change decision
For the first time, superstar Cher has talked openly about her daughter Chastity Bono’s decision to undergo a sex change to become Chaz Bono. The Caesars Palace headliner said that she doesn’t understand Chastity’s decision to go under the knife for the operation that will transform her from female to male. In a statement, Cher said that while even not understanding the identity change, she will still support Chaz and continues to love her child. “Chaz is embarking on a ... Read more...
Star Surveillance: NHL players dine and party in Las Vegas ahead of awards
NHL stars have popped up all over town: Philadelphia Flyers captain Mike Richards had dinner at Lavo in the Palazzo with team owner Peter Luukko. NHL presenter and Entourage star Kevin Connolly was nearby enjoying Lavo’s popular menu item the Kobe meatball. General Hospital actress Kristen Storms wrapped up her Lavo meal with the delectable Oreo Zeppole. Up in Lavo’s nightclub, they all had adjoining tables for NHL star Jeremy Roenick’s fashion show of his new line Muze. The San ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Turnout of fans is unexpectedly large for NHL Awards
It was a royal red carpet turnout of stars and fans that looked as if it was the Oscars or the Grammys in Hollywood. But this was at the Palms in Las Vegas, and it was the annual NHL Awards. As singer Michael Buble joked with me: “The only ice in this city is for drinks at the bar, and all those hockey stars are here to celebrate. This is a party town, and they are all here to party. ... Read more...
Larry King is challenged by Steve Wynn and winds up as Encore headliner
CNN talk show host Larry King takes to the stage of Steve Wynn’s Encore Theater tonight with his country singer wife Shawn Southwick King as his opening act. The unusual Strip entertainment appearance is a long way from the safety of Larry’s TV studios in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. It’s all because of a dare that the two men had over dinner long before the recent death of the Encore’s entertainer Danny Gans. Steve had told the master of ... Read more...
Strip Stars: Aretha Franklin, Jay Leno, Big & Rich, Britney Spears and UFC
It’s another huge all-star invasion this weekend on the comedy and country music scene, and today’s the day that tickets go on sale here for two new concerts Britney Spears has added to her continuing Circus world tour. The pop princess returns here Sept. 26-27 to Mandalay Bay Events Center. Click HERE for our report of Britney’s first Vegas stop this year at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, and click HERE for our report on Britney’s magician Ed Alonzo, who ... Read more...
British singer-songwriter Matt Goss is new resident headliner at the Palms
When Vegas DeLuxe first broke the exclusive that Zowie Bowie was moving from the Palms and onto the Strip with their Big Band Show, I hinted that the Pussycat Dolls had enlisted a top European singer to fill the space. I was right! He’s London-based international singing sensation Matt Goss, known as “The Voice,” and Pussycat Dolls creator Robin Antin will present his Palms show starting Sept. 4. Robin’s already begun a casting search and planning the choreography for the ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Warren Moon’s Bowl; Third Eye Blind, Strung Out @HRH
A crowd of more than 3,500 die-hard fans of Third Eye Blind piled into the Hard Rock Hotel for the band’s poolside performance. Frontman Stephan Jenkins, an ex of Charlize Theron, and his fellow rockers kept the crowd moving into the night. And as if Third Eye Blind’s show wasn’t enough, punk group Strung Out played to a packed crowed inside Carey Hart’s Wasted Space at the Hard Rock. Warren Moon’s Annual Fundraiser NFL Hall of Famer Warren Moon and ... Read more...
Criss Angel risks death walking minefield on Mindfreak premiere
If Mindfreak magician and Believe illusionist Criss Angel ever failed to pull off one of his dangerous stunts, it would just be an embarrassment — and he could do it over later. But for the debut of his Season 5 of Mindfreak, on Aug. 12 on A&E, if he makes one false move, he could be blown to pieces. Criss will use his psychic powers to tread gingerly over not one or two levels of incendiary devices but seven levels ... Read more...
Counter Intelligence Photo Gallery: Old school vs. new school with Todd English
Foodies flew from all over America — one couple traveled from Providence, R.I., on a round-trip, same-day jaunt — to sit and watch celebrity chef Todd English. Todd taught an intimate and rare cooking lesson in the Tuscany Kitchen at the Bellagio, where his Olives has been a major success story since opening nearly 10 years ago. Todd owns 21 restaurants coast to coast and will open his new English Pub this fall at MGM’s CityCenter. He was assisted in ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Ex-porn star Stormy Daniels considers Louisiana Senate run
Sexy Stormy Daniels, who has been a gorgeous face and a stunning body on the Las Vegas scene for several years, is returning to her Louisiana roots for a possible political run. She’s formed an exploratory committee and has traveled across the state on listening trips to gauge voter interest in her taking on Sen. David Vitter. He’s the GOP leader whose name was linked to the blackbook prostitute scandal in Washington, D.C., last year. Stormy, who was born and ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Hockey and Hollywood stars gather for NHL Awards tonight
Sports writers from across the U.S. and Canada have mobbed the superstars of the National Hockey League, and Las Vegas has become an overnight ice palace for fans. “We are so glad to be here in Las Vegas,” hockey legend Mark Messier told me last night at the Palms, where he posed with owner George Maloof for our exclusive shot. “I was last in Vegas in the early ’90s for an exhibition game way before I retired, and man has ... Read more...
Holly Madison talks with LVW about going topless, Criss Angel and the Strip
Holly Madison bares all — in an amazing interview with our roving editor Johnny Kats that’s published in our sister publication Las Vegas Weekly and posted on its Web site (click HERE for the story). Holly reveals the answer to whether she plans to go totally topless in Peepshow when she joins the cast for her debut Monday at Planet Hollywood. She tells the story for the first time behind the split with Cirque du Soleil Believe star and Mindfreak ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Smokey Robinson and Human Nature debut at Imperial Palace
Motown legend Smokey Robinson had two huge reasons to smile last night: 1) He’s returning to the Strip for a series of live shows, and 2) his new discovery Human Nature from Down Under premiered at the Imperial Palace, and there wasn’t one person in the showroom not up on the floor singing and dancing along. Even Smokey and former Supremes singer Mary Wilson were jumping and jiving to the re-created Motown sounds. I joined them for dinner before the ... Read more...
The circus is coming to The Orleans! Ringling Bros. mixes tradition and magic
It’s the 139th edition of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and the all-new Zing Zang Zoom production that starts its eight-show run at The Orleans Arena tonight is a thrill-filled, mind-bowing circus spectacular mixed with extraordinary magical illusions. Watch to see if Lance Burton is healed from his busted foot or Criss Angel floats down from the Luxor pyramid to watch a 4-ton elephant disappear right from the center ring. During the four days and nights of ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: In the kitchen with Bobby Flay for a TV shoot
TV cameras from various media outlets captured all the candid moments of the recent Bon Appetit chef and food festival Vegas Uncork’d here in Las Vegas. Despite the fact I was suffering from a horrendous sinus infection, my longtime pal and ultimate TV chef Bobby Flay insisted on dragging me into the kitchen for a Better TV segment. Bobby pulled off the impossible of simultaneously autographing his new summer book Burgers, Fries & Shakes while cooking dinner for 100 special ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Obama surprises Andre Agassi with Graduation Day letter
Tennis champion and Las Vegas resident Andre Agassi had two reasons to be smiling, and neither had to do with the sport he was king of for so many years! He gave the commencement address as the first senior class of his College Preparatory Academy graduated, and no less than President Obama surprised him and the 34 students with a special congratulations letter to mark the milestone since Andre first opened the charter school eight years ago. All 34 graduates ... Read more...
Holly Madison discusses in Las Vegas Weekly the Criss Angel breakup
Roving editor Johnny Kats spent an unprecedented two weeks nearly 24/7 in the life of soon-to-be Planet Hollywood Peepshow star Holly Madison for tomorrow’s cover story in our sister publication Las Vegas Weekly. I received a sneak peek at his story and can tip you that, for the first time, Holly opens up about the romance with Mindfreak magician Criss Angel. Holly denies that it was a staged romance and says they first met while both appeared on Phenomenon. But ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Happy 25th Birthday to Cirque and its stilt-walking record try
It will be some time before the auditors at the Guinness Book of World Records rule on yesterday’s attempt by Cirque du Soleil performers to break their own stilt-walking record. Cirque performers in five cities — Orlando, Fla.; Moscow; Montreal; Macau; and of course Las Vegas — hoped for a turnout of 1,300 participants across the globe, but only required 625 to stay aloft on the stilts to claim a new world record. It was no easy task on the ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Live @Palazzo, Amanda Righetti @Tabu and Testament @HOB
One of the most popular and enduring alternative rock bands of the past 20 years, Live was live onstage at Azure pool in the Palazzo. During the 90-minute set, Live performed hits including “Lighting Crashes” and “I Alone.” After the show, band members relaxed in a cabana at the after-party at Azure. They greeted guests, posed for photos — and even invited some to join them for even later drinks at Lavo! Live has recorded seven full-length albums with sales ... Read more...
Q&A: Jon Voight finds missing film; James and Scott Caan discuss lost loves
Almost every time a film bombs really badly, it vanishes! Nobody wants to ever see it again. But respected director Hal Ashby recut his flop Looking to Get Out and never told anybody. For more than 20 years, it remained lost — and only two years ago did its star Jon Voight find it and now declares it a winning cinematographic feat! The film was made back in 1982 on location here in Las Vegas and co-starred Ann-Margret and Burt ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: First Food & Bar aims to serve patrons in the after-hours
Hidden treasure! The brand new First Food & Bar features a photo booth, and at the grand opening in the Palazzo, crowds hopped in and out to make their own four-strip of images. There was even a hot dog stand for the baby buns and Sabretts. Also on the menu: sliders. The more you explore at First, the more delights you discover! My friends from Jersey Boys in the Palazzo were there, along with our Nevada Sen. John Ensign and ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Why Paris Hilton switched from baseball to soccer (players)
Apparently it was in our N9NE Steakhouse HQ in Chicago when the romance between Paris Hilton and The Hills star Doug Reinhardt actually collapsed. Respected and well-informed Chicago Sun-Times columnist Bill Zwecker says the ex-ballplayer bragged too openly about his “romantic skills with Paris and that, as a result, she would be his meal ticket for life.” That tidbit got back to Paris, allegedly, just about the same time, says Bill, that she discovered him ringing up clothes, watches and ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Holly Madison, Fantasy gals and Alizma help celebrate my star
What a thrill and an honor, even though folks will be walking all over me from now on! Last night, I was presented with my very own star on the Walk of Fame at the Brenden Theatres in the Palms to bring an end to the successful 11th Annual CineVegas Film Festival. I even had a 12-person drum roll for the welcome! Palms President George Maloof, Brenden Theatres CEO Johnny Brenden and CineVegas Artistic Director Trevor Groth officiated at the ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Successful 2009 CineVegas Film Festival comes to a close
With the CineVegas Awards behind them, it was time for the stars to celebrate their closing party. The presentations were made at Rain in the Palms, with Access Hollywood personality and actress Maria Menounos as emcee and actor Dennis Hopper and professional skateboarder Tony Hawk helping to hand out the awards to honorees Jon Voight and Willem Dafoe. Afterward, they joined about 60 CineVegas Film Festival officials for dinner at Nove Italiano in the Palms Fantasy Tower. They dined on ... Read more...
Criss Angel conjures motorcycles as Mindfreak kicks off in Big Bear
Magician Criss Angel has a brand new magnificent motorbike for Season 5 of his A&E series Mindfreak, and when he went over to Big Bear Lake to test it out, he picked up two others! When Criss first saw the jet-black bike as the covers were pulled back, he was stunned, and all he could say was “wow, wow, wow,” according to Motorcycle USA Cruiser Editor Bryan Harley. One of Criss’s team told me: “He unveils a new bike at ... Read more...
Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte’s space journey and world record attempt
Cirque du Soleil’s fearless founder Guy Laliberte is about to risk life and limb to fulfill a longtime dream of going into space. Guy, who has been with his creative teams and cast members for the past few days here in Las Vegas, leaves from here to fly to Moscow, where he will join the commercial Russian space venture. Guy will undergo astronaut training and then be blasted into outer space on a mission scheduled for September. It’s believed that ... Read more...
Lance Burton prepares for return and announcement about future
Sometime this week after a final X-ray and medical examination, master magician Lance Burton will get the doctor’s verdict as to when he can return to perform his illusions at the Monte Carlo. Simultaneously, the 50-year-old Strip favorite says he will announce his decision as to what the future holds for him as his staggering 13-year contract with the casino expires this Saturday. Lance underwent surgery for a broken right foot sustained when he climbed back up the stage steps ... Read more...
A naughty little peek at Holly Madison in Peepshow
On the day that Holly Madison rehearsed the final erotic bathtub scene in Planet Hollywood’s Peepshow for the first time, her first publicity photo also was released. Today, Holly will film the video opening for the show that leads into her tumbling from the ceiling of her Planet Hollywood theater for her onstage arrival. She told me she plans to smuggle her newly acquired Pekinese dog Napoleon into the video sequence. Last night, in addition to showing up for my ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Star chef Todd English to open English Pub at CityCenter
Hard on the heels of our exclusive here two weeks ago that famed French chef Pierre Gagnaire would open his first American four-star restaurant at the new MGM CityCenter, I’ve learned of another. Star chef Todd English, who has Olives at the Bellagio among his collection of 21 coast-to-coast eateries, is entering the Crystal’s shopping arcade there in December. In an unexpected departure from his gourmet creations, Todd will open a pub called the English Pub. He will offer more ... Read more...
Cristiano Ronaldo spends third day in Las Vegas at the Palms
Mega-bucks soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo continued his third day of adventures in Sin City. After dinner at Nove Italiano in the Palms, Cristiano went into the kitchen to autograph executive chef Geno Bernardo’s famous signed sports door and then hit the upstairs Playboy Club. Yesterday, Cristiano and his seven pals, who are staying in the Palms Place & Spa penthouse, were at Kerry Simon’s pajama brunch and afterward lazed at the pool where Peepshow stars Mel B and Kelly Monaco ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Jon Voight and Willem Dafoe receive CineVegas Awards on Day 5
Comedy superstar Robin Williams is getting better slowly in his recovery from recent open heart surgery that sidelined him from appearing at last night’s CineVegas screening of World’s Greatest Dad. Former standup comic turned movie director Bobcat Goldthwait and the film’s leading lady Alexie Gilmore attended the near closing ceremonies of the 11th annual CineVegas Film Festival. Bob told me that Robin was doing well, progressing slowly and hopefully would be able to do some promotional work for the film ... Read more...
Robin Thicke and Chaka Khan among star headliners of 2009 NHL Awards
A glittering galaxy of sports superstars, Hollywood celebrities and ice hockey legends begin arriving in Las Vegas today for Thursday’s spectacular celebration of hockey at the 2009 NHL Awards. Singers Robin Thicke and Chaka Khan, who will perform at the awards show, will lead the stars on the red carpet, including heartthrob singer Michael Buble, Entourage star Kevin Connolly, William Fichtner of Prison Break, Battlestar Galactica’s Tricia Helfer and Colin Ferguson of Eureka. I plan to talk with Hollywood mogul ... Read more...
Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s return to the ring is postponed by injury
Hometown hero and boxing star Floyd Mayweather Jr. over the weekend postponed his comeback battle against Juan Manuel Marquez. They were due to fight at MGM Grand Garden Arena on July 18, but Floyd suffered a rib injury during training, and now the rumble in the ring will be rescheduled. Our leading lady of the lens Denise Truscello captured these amazing photos of Floyd at a training session last week hours before the injury. Personally, I’ve never seen a fighter ... Read more...
Lights out and lights up for Planet Holly on the Strip
Look up in the sky! It’s a … change of name for Planet Hollywood tonight. If you are on the Strip at approximately 8 p.m., check the resort casino’s sign because up on the sixth floor, reality TV star Holly Madison will be posing for photographers at the pool with the hotel rooftop sign as the backdrop. The lights will be blacked out and then moments later be switched back on as Planet Holly. It’s a temporary move for publicity ... Read more...
Exclusive: Paula Abdul in tug-of-war between Strip hotels for her new show
American Idol judge Paula Abdul sits in an enviable position this morning. She’s the subject of a bidding war between rival Strip hotels for a new talent and variety show headed for the Strip — and that’s even before she decides whether to keep her day job with Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson! Vegas DeLuxe has learned that Paula received private, behind-the-scenes tours at both Wayne Brady’s Theater in The Venetian and at the Danny Gans Theater in Steve Wynn’s ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: CineVegas’ wedding with Chippendales and Sin City dancers
It was an only-in-Las-Vegas moment: a red carpet wedding at the 11th Annual CineVegas Film Festival. To promote the world premiere of Rania Ajami’s Asylum Seekers, the Chippendales dancers served as groomsmen and the Sin City Girls as bridesmaids. Even Smokey Robinson’s new Strip singers Human Nature showed up with the gorgeous Fantasy Girls from the Luxor. Day 4 of CineVegas yesterday saw three other world-premiere screenings: Robert Saitzyk’s Godspeed and Patrick Hoelck’s Mercy, which featured a red carpet with ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Dennis Hopper watches Love, and James Caan shares the love
The classic film Easy Rider with legendary actor Dennis Hopper moved — and in many cases changed — people’s lives four decades ago. But it wasn’t until last night when our CineVegas Film Festival chairman took his family to see Cirque Du Soleil’s Beatles musical Love at The Mirage that we learned of the John Lennon connection! Dennis was accompanied by his wife, children and granddaughter, all of whom bopped along to the music and joined in the standing ovation ... Read more...
Cristiano Ronaldo gives Las Vegas (and $134 million contract) a thumbs up
It’s the first photo in Las Vegas of mega-millionaire soccer star and heartthrob Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s wanted by the world’s paparazzi because of his alleged fling with Paris Hilton that apparently caused her bust-up with baseball player and The Hills star boyfriend Doug Reinhardt. After signing the $134 million contract to move from Britain’s Manchester United to Spain’s Real Madrid, Cristiano and five pals hit Los Angeles, where he was spotted for two consecutive nights with the socialite and reality ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: 2009 CineVegas Day 3’s four world premieres
The third day of 2009 CineVegas marked the debut of three Jackpot Premieres: Kyle Patrick Alvarez’s Easier With Practice, Talmage Cooley’s Patriotville and Jeff Mizushima’s Etienne!. Also premiering was Sea of Darkness, a surfing documentary by Michael Oblowitz. The rebel spirit was kept alive in CineVegas Headquarters during Happy Hour with an energy-filled performance by Billy Idol impersonator Walt Turner. Not only is he featured in Legends in Concert at Harrah’s, but he also stars in Vegas: Based on a ... Read more...
Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho bring their game to Sin City
Two of the world’s greatest soccer stars with similar names set off a massive trans-Atlantic media frenzy while celebrating in Las Vegas this weekend. British and Hollywood paparazzi are hard on the tail of Manchester United footballer Cristiano Ronaldo at the Palms. He’s shaken the sports world with his decision this week to jump to Real Madrid for a mind-blowing $134 million contract, the richest ever in football history. But photographers are chasing him because he’s being blamed for breaking ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Floyd Mayweather Jr. salutes the flag as training accelerates
Six-time world champion boxing superstar Floyd Mayweather Jr. is celebrating his patriotism by wrapping his boxing gym in an American flag — and also to honor Flag Day this Sunday. Floyd says the 16‘2” x 8‘2’’ flag also will be his inspiration as he prepares for his July 18 welterweight showdown against Juan Manuel Marquez. Floyd ,who came out of a self-imposed retirement, says his gym wrap will be kept up through the night of the fight dubbed Mayweather vs. ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Theory of Flight filming music video at Lake Mead today
Rising rockers Theory of Flight, who are based here in Las Vegas, shoot their first music video “Set the Night on Fire” today and are looking for fans to be extras in the filming. So from 3:30 to 10 p.m. today out at Lake Mead, the band wants girls in cut-off jeans, tank tops, flip flops and jean skirts — “fun in the sun” attire — and guys in board shorts and T-shirts but no tank tops. Khaki and camp ... Read more...
Warren Moon’s Sports Dream Bowl is at Palazzo’s Sportsbook today
NFL Hall of Fame star Warren Moon will be at the Sportsbook Bar and Grill in the Palazzo from noon onward today with more than 30 other celebrity athletes and friends for his 9th Annual Sports Dream Bowl. The sports stars will do a meet and greet until 3 p.m. and sign autographs and pose for photos with fans. It’s all to benefit the Urban Youth Scholarship Fund. Simultaneously, ESPN Radio will broadcast The Cofield & Cokin Show live from ... Read more...
Your weekend guide to 2009 CineVegas’ stars, parties and screenings
It’s a star-studded weekend for 2009 CineVegas with the arrival of actors James Caan and his son Scott Caan, plus Jon Voight, Willem Defoe and director Wim Wenders, who will take part in the Honoree Awards on Sunday afternoon. There’s plenty for every movie buff with screenings, parties and Q&A sessions with the producers and directors. We’ve put it all together for you in an easy-to-read rundown (all times are subject to change). Everything is at the Palms except for ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: CineVegas Day 2 premieres 4 films; Sam Rockwell and All In
2009 CineVegas kicked into high gear on Day 2 of the 11th annual film festival with not one, two or three but four world premieres! Film fan frenzy and adrenaline was at an all-time high with two Jackpot Premieres: Redland and Daylight. Daylight actor Sam Rockwell made a special red carpet appearance to support his longtime filmmaker friends. Also making its world premiere was the documentary All In: the Poker Movie. Poker’s top princes and princesses literally abandoned the World ... Read more...
First Food & Bar opens today for 21/7 business in the Palazzo
After a week of run-throughs and shaking down the systems, the new and much-anticipated First Food & Bar from New York City opens tonight at the Palazzo. Executive chef Sam DeMarco ran First in Manhattan for 10 successful years before he moved out to Las Vegas and was at Sam’s American in the Bellagio. It’s almost a round-the-clock 24-hour restaurant serving the late-late-night crowd — so much so they’re likely to bump into the early morning breakfast bunch! First Food ... Read more...
2009 CineVegas Notebook: A sincere thank you from and to Romany Malco
Actor Romany Malco gave me a surprising hug and a kiss on the cheek while doing his red carpet duties for his new film Saint John of Las Vegas at the 11th Annual CineVegas Film Festival. Surprising because we’d never met before! But this was no Hollywood fakery. Romany told me that when he was growing up as a poor youngster, he used my old TV series Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous as his inspiration to get to Hollywood. ... Read more...
Michael Jackson faces $40 million lawsuit ahead of departure for London shows
On the eve of departure for London, King of Pop Michael Jackson has a new $40 million problem on his hands. At first, it looked as if the new breach of contract lawsuit might interfere with the 50-show run in England, but attorney Ira Meyerowitz says they won’t stop him from performing there. Allgood Entertainment reportedly had a signed contract with Michael’s manager to do a reunion concert with members of the Jackson family and produce it as a pay-per-view ... Read more...
The Diceman is rolling back into town this month and in July
Our exclusive from Monday that bad boy comedian Andrew Dice Clay will be performing at the Steve Wyrick Theater has been officially confirmed, and we reported it on Twitter yesterday moments after the news was released. The outrageous four-letter-word-loving comic is set for June 25-28 and July 2-5 for the 10:30 p.m. shows in Planet Hollywood’s Miracle Mile. Vegas DeLuxe broke the news Monday at the same time we told you about the return of Lord of the Dance to ... Read more...
Paula Abdul in negotiations for her own variety show on the Strip
If you were following our Vegas DeLuxe Twitter last night, you knew that American Idol judge Paula Abdul was at dinner in Strip House at Planet Hollywood with BASE Entertainment head honcho Scott Zeiger. BASE produces Peepshow at Planet Hollywood, so this sighting will prompt speculation that Paula might eventually wind up in the adult burlesque show. Not true, though. Paula and BASE have been in talks about a talent-type variety show at The Venetian and Palazzo. BASE has a ... Read more...
Terry Fator’s Mirage show comes to a surprising — and shocking — standstill
Entertainer Terry Fator looked shell-shocked when a gag with his Mirage audience completely failed. His singing ventriloquist impersonations came to a screeching halt. Terry, who will celebrate his 100th show there over the Fourth of July weekend, said: “That’s the first time in my entire career I didn’t get the expected audience response. For a split second, I didn’t know how to handle it.” I was hidden backstage, so he had no idea of what was about to happen. He’d ... Read more...
Music mogul Jerry Greenberg launches ABBA tribute band Abbacadabra
For more than 40 years, record producer Jerry Greenberg has discovered and worked with some of the biggest names in the music business. I knew him back in 1974 when he became the youngest president of a major label at Atlantic Records. Jerry worked with everybody from The Rolling Stones to Michael Jackson and signed Foreigner and Genesis. It was impossible for Jerry to retire at the end of an extraordinary career, so he opened the Rainbow Bar & Grill ... Read more...
Rock ’n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon comes to the Strip in December
For the first time, the new Rock ’n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon will be run on the Strip, and it’s unprecedented that Las Vegas Boulevard will be closed to all vehicles for 25,000 runners in north and south lanes. The new marathon organizers promise live bands and cheerleaders, along with entertainment to be announced later. The inaugural Rock ’n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon & Half Marathon powered by Zappos.com to benefit the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America debuts Dec. ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Holly Madison names her new puppy Napoleon
The Girls Next Door and Playboy beauty Holly Madison has purchased a Pekinese puppy and named him Napoleon. “He is so cute! I just fell in love with him immediately. But he’s got a powerful little attitude about him, so that’s why I gave him the name,” she laughed as she told me at last night’s CineVegas Film Festival opening at Planet Hollywood. “I’m lobbying to have him in the video we have to shoot next week for the opening ... Read more...
Counter Intelligence: Joel Robuchon’s new menus; Society Cafe’s mojito bar
Since opening in September 2005, legendary chef Joel Robuchon’s restaurant at MGM has received the Mobil Five Star, Michelin Three Star and AAA Five Diamond Awards, the top accolades for each organization. His peers hail Joel as the “Pope of the Palate.” Now in his own economic stimulus plan, he wants guests to sample his formidable cooking talents at not-so-formidable prices. Joel’s first U.S. fine dining restaurant, Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand, now offers Les Selections Gastronomique, four new menus ... Read more...
CineVegas Day 2: Poker stars hit the red carpet for All In: The Poker Movie
Poker princes and princesses will be on the red carpet for tonight’s gala screening of the poker film All In: The Poker Movie for Day 2 of 2009 CineVegas. You can expect Annie Duke, Jamie Gold, Phil Hellmuth, Joe Reitman, Amarillo Slim and Jeffrey Pollack, the commissioner of the World Series of Poker. Here’s today’s rundown of the CineVegas films, which will all be shown at the Brenden Theatres in the Palms: 12:30 p.m.: Screening of Impolex with director Alex ... Read more...
Cheap Trick wants you to want them at the Las Vegas Hilton
Cheap Trick has found a Las Vegas home at the Hilton. A formal press conference is scheduled for this morning to announce a series of special engagement concerts. They will perform in the Hilton Theater. Cheap Trick members Rick Nielsen, lead guitarist, Tom Peterson, electric bass, Robin Zander, lead vocals and rhythm guitar, and Bun E. Carlos, drums and percussion, have been together since 1974 and still regularly go out on tour 35 years later. Their song “In the Street” ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Celebrities mingle on the red carpet of 2009 CineVegas Day 1
Hollywood stars and Las Vegas headliners mingled on last night’s red carpet at Planet Hollywood for the premiere of Saint John of Las Vegas to kick off the 11th Annual CineVegas Film Festival. Our contributing photographers Denise Truscello and Erik Kabik were on duty for our photo gallery of the festivities. The movie’s stars attending were Sarah Silverman, who wore a camping backpack, Romany Malco and Jesse Garcia. Romany told me he’d grown up as a youngster watching Lifestyles of ... Read more...
Exclusive Interview & Photos: Mario Batali bets on the farm
The sight of a farmers market with fresh fruits, vegetables and other items inside a Strip casino was an extraordinary first-ever experience — and all thanks to hot TV celebrity chef Molto Mario Batali! Eggs, tomatoes and edible cactus were just inches away from slot machines and blackjack tables at the luxurious Palazzo. I was amazed at the produce. One farmer’s stand featured apples, pears, peaches, tomatoes, cucumbers and squash grown right here at the Gilcrease Orchards in the north ... Read more...
CineVegas kicks off with red carpet for Saint John of Las Vegas
For the next six days, the 2009 CineVegas Film Festival rules, and our city becomes a baby Hollywood with all the dazzle and glitter of the Cannes and Sundance film festivals! Our favorite actor and Las Vegas booster Dennis Hopper, who serves as film festival chairman, will be front and center throughout the 11th annual festival as he welcomes stars, directors, writers and producers to some 70 screenings and parties! Nearly everything about CineVegas, including the movie screenings, is headquartered ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Bikini beauties offer $5 car washes for charity — and it’s a hit
Employees of Harrah’s Entertainment are on a citywide campaign to benefit United Way of Southern Nevada, and at The Rio, the old-fashioned car wash took on new proportions. The Sapphire bikini beauties from The Rio pool decided that eye candy would be the attraction as they lathered up cars for the cause. There was a steady stream of customers for the $5 bargain, and by the end of the day, the glamour girls with a charitable heart brought in more ... Read more...
Inside the Strip’s new three-story, 41,000-square-foot Hard Rock Cafe
One giant rock and roll party is headed to the Strip thanks to the Seminole Indians of Florida. Hard Rock International, owned by the tribe, is set to open a massive 41,000-square-foot, three-story flagship Hard Rock Cafe the first weekend in September. It will dominate the new Showcase Mall development next door to the MGM Grand. (The existing Hard Rock Cafe owned by the Seminole Indians in front of the Hard Rock Hotel — not owned by them — will ... Read more...
Reports of Michael Jackson wanting child choir for concerts are causing chaos
King of Pop Michael Jackson plans to relocate next week to London from L.A. to continue final rehearsals for the July 13 premiere of his new 50-concert run of the This Is It shows. But this morning, British news reports say a chaotic situation has developed because of his apparent wish to have a backup choir of young children. In fact, Michael needs two backup choirs because of strict British child labor laws that require a rotating double so youngsters ... Read more...
Gerry ‘The Mentalist’ McCambridge celebrates 800 performances
Congratulations to Gerry McCambridge, who tomorrow night performs his 800th show since moving to Las Vegas in June 2005. Three weeks ago, without missing a show, he relocated his production from the Hooters Casino onto a new stage at the V Theater in the Miracle Mile at Planet Hollywood. With the 800th performance, Gerry can now lay claim to being the longest-running mentalist show on the Strip. Gerry arrived in town four years ago with just a three-week contract at ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Cisco and Shwayze bring ‘Corona and Lime’ to Wet Republic
Reality TV stars Cisco Adler and Shwayze of MTV’s Buzzin’ took center stage at MGM’s sexy Wet Republic, and our contributing photographer Erik Kabik was on duty under the desert sun for the hot performance. The crowd went wild when they jumped along in a workout to their smash hits “Corona and Lime” and “Buzzin.’ ” If it looked like a TV infomercial for a keep-fit exercise product, fear not! The happy fans simply leapt into the pools afterward to ... Read more...
Former Michael Jackson backup singer lands Mel B role in Peepshow
With strong Broadway credits in Hairspray and Wicked, Shoshana Bean’s new role in taking over for Mel B in Peepshow looks certain to propel her to overnight Strip stardom. Shoshana confirmed this afternoon that she has accepted Peepshow creator, director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell’s invitation to take the lead role in the adult burlesque cabaret at Planet Hollywood. As of June 22, Shoshana, 31, will join Playboy platinum blonde beauty Holly Madison, who takes over for Kelly Monaco. Holly and ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Audrina Patridge continues brother’s birthday celebration
The Hills star Audrina Patridge continued the celebration for her brother Mark’s birthday into a third night. After returning to Tao Beach at The Venetian during the day to hear DJ Steve Aoki spin, the group of 12 dined Italian family style on the Lavo terrace at the Palazzo overlooking the Strip and then headed upstairs to a dance floor table in the club. For the second consecutive night, Audrina surprised her brother with a birthday cake, and they enjoyed ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Criss Angel begins Mindfreak and launches third store
Mindfreak magician Criss Angel faces a brutal six-week, 18-hour series of workdays now that he has begun filming his fifth season of the A&E series, which will get him to the prized 100-show number! Today his friend and fellow Luxor headliner Carrot Top will be shooting one of the episodes with him. Criss told VDLX: “I’m really excited to start shooting. We’ve got some amazing stuff planned. We are really going to push the envelope for Season 5. The things ... Read more...
Rich & Famous: The $750 dinner and the $50,000 champagne picnic trunk
Las Vegas has just become the first city in North America to have a Krug Champagne Room. The new hideaway here at Restaurant Guy Savoy in Caesars Palace follows only three others in London, Hong Kong and Tokyo. Not only do you get six varieties of Krug champagne, but the meal from Guy’s kitchen is truly a five-course masterpiece. The gastronomic experience is $750 per person, and the Krug Room may be booked for as few as six people or ... Read more...
VDLX @Twitter: Garth Brooks, Paula Abdul, Peepshow and Talent
Here’s what you missed if you weren’t following all our breaking news yesterday on Twitter: Retired country singer Garth Brooks was the surprise headline star for Steve Wynn’s private concert for 800 family, friends and VIP patrons at the Encore theater last night — exactly as we predicted! It was only when guests arrived at the late Danny Gans’ theater that they got the confirmation when each one was handed a black 10-gallon Stetson to wear during the show and ... Read more...
Lord of the Dance and Andrew Dice Clay return to the Strip
To celebrate the news we posted yesterday — click HERE — that Michael Flatley is bringing his Lord of the Dance cast to Steve Wyrick’s theater in Planet Hollywood’s Miracle Mile, here are some performances of the spectacular via YouTube: Lord of the Dance begins June 25 and runs through at least Aug. 16. At the same time, Vegas DeLuxe has learned that foul-mouthed comedy king Andrew Dice Clay is about to sign for an eight-night run of late-night shows, ... Read more...
Vince Neil says no more trashed hotel rooms for Motley Crue
Gone are the days that Motley Crue trashed hotel rooms. In fact, our hometown hero and lead singer Vince Neil says those wild times are long gone. He explained that the group left a trail of devastation from their first tours — but no more. Said Vince: “When you’re young and it’s your first tour, you just wanna trash the hotel room. It was great; go ahead and do it. But at the end of the tour when they deduct ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Gavin Rossdale brings the party poolside at the Hard Rock
British musician Gavin Rossdale is best known as the lead singer and guitarist of Bush, but you can’t ignore the fact that he’s also the husband of No Doubt star Gwen Stefani! While she’s out on the reunion tour, Gavin is performing solo concerts in support of his new album Wanderlust, which features his hit “Love Remains the Same,” and won great applause from the poolside crowd at the Hard Rock Hotel. Our contributing photographers Erik Kabik and Scott Harrison ... Read more...
It’s hello, Holly Madison, goodbye Kelly Monaco and Mel B in Peepshow
News just broke on the first day of Holly Madison’s rehearsals for Peepshow that Mel B also will be leaving the topless adult cabaret burlesque at Planet Hollywood. I posted the quick report moments ago on twitter.com/robin_leach. It was always the plan that Mel B and Kelly Monaco would do the first 12 weeks. Producers did want to renew Scary Spice’s contract, but the schedules didn’t work out. Now we’re awaiting the name of the triple-threat Broadway singer-actress-dancer arriving to ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: NFL stars shop, dine and party at the Palazzo
More than 30 NFL players from more than a dozen top teams brought along wives and girlfriends for a weekend of entertainment and dining at the Palazzo, plus a shopping spree through the Shoppes of the Palazzo. They all wound up partying at Lavo over the weekend after the sponsor presentations at dinner in the Palazzo. The players included Miles Austin, Michael Hamlin, Flozell Adams and Stephen Bowen of the Dallas Cowboys; Charles Bennett, Jason Jones, Jason Murphy, Stephen Tulloch, ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Terry Fator, Pete Wentz, Audrina Patridge, Derek Hough and Mark Ballas celebrate birthdays on the Strip
It was a weekend of birthday celebrations with parties up and down the Strip. I don’t remember so many all happening simultaneously, but Vegas DeLuxe and our contributing photographers managed to capture all the gift giving and cake-candle wishes. Terry Fator Forty people celebrated singing ventriloquist and impersonator Terry Fator’s birthday at Stack in The Mirage, some he hadn’t seen in 20 years from his high school days in Texas! Terry continues to enjoy sell-out crowds nightly, and comedian Brad ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Mario Lopez opens Azure pool at the Palazzo
With champagne massages poolside and bling-covered ice buckets to chill the liquid assets safely, expect the new Azure pool at the Palazzo to become the big summer hit. TV heartthrob host Mario Lopez officially opened Azure over the weekend, and girlfriend Courtney Mazza and he were the first to enjoy the unique couples massage under the secluded gazebo. They didn’t mind who spotted them kissing and cuddling on their runaway weekend here. Mario told me in his VIP air-conditioned cabana ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Bette Midler’s The Showgirl Must Go On celebrates 100th show
“I am a very lucky, lucky girl,” declared superstar entertainer Bette Midler as she celebrated her 100th show at the Caesars Palace Colosseum last night. “Nobody in the cast or crew even missed one of them. I couldn’t have done it and wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them all. They are the best team of people I have ever worked with in my life, and it makes me one very lucky girl. “Tonight is a memory that will ... Read more...
Exclusive: Mystery surrounds Steve Wynn’s surprise at the Encore tonight
Vegas DeLuxe has learned that family, friends and key patrons of hotel tycoon Steve Wynn are getting a special surprise tonight, and only Steve, Elaine and two other hotel executives know the full details. I just posted this breaking story on twitter.com/robin_leach. The mystery deepens because a veil of silence has been wrapped around a private concert party for 800 specially invited guests to be held in the Encore Theater, the home of the late Danny Gans. One rumor I’ve ... Read more...
Holly Madison begins rehearsals for Peepshow at Planet Hollywood
Today is the day that reality TV star Holly Madison starts her rehearsals for Peepshow at Planet Hollywood. Two weeks of dialogue and dance rehearsals and technical blocking lie ahead before she takes over for Kelly Monaco, who is wrapping up her 90-day engagement with the show June 22. Holly has a similar three-month contract with renewal options. An official celebration party for Holly’s arrival is set for June 24. Over the weekend, The Girls Next Door star was in ... Read more...
Exclusive: Zowie Bowie to leave Palms for Vintage Vegas big band Strip show
Vegas DeLuxe has confirmed that the hit singing twosome Zowie Bowie will be moving to the Strip this fall after a four-month run at the Palms. They had moved closer to the Strip from the Red Rock Resort in Summerlin, and they said it was a “dream come true” to move to the Palms — click HERE for our March 6 story. But Marley Taylor and Chris Phillips, who make up Zowie Bowie, also had always wanted to bring back ... Read more...
Caesars Palace hits box office bonanza with The Hangover
Caesars Palace executives will wake up this morning to a very pleasant and happy Hangover. The fun-filled comedy The Hangover that opened over the weekend with a box office bonanza was filmed almost entirely on location over a three-month shoot at the Strip casino resort. Yesterday’s box office estimates had the film about a pre-wedding day bachelor party that goes horribly wrong racking up a solid success story. The total weekend box office for The Hangover will ca-ching in at ... Read more...
Monday’s Tease: Mario Lopez opens Azure pool at the Palazzo
From my Twitter yesterday: TV host Mario Lopez officiates at grand opening of new, intimate Azure pool at the Palazzo. Great music. No vulgar rap. Wolfgang Puck pizza. Bling-covered ice buckets and champagne massages poolside. Heaven. Mario Lopez arrived at new Azure pool in Palazzo. Click here for the photo seconds ago: http://twitpic.com/6ruxs. Natalie Morales from the Today show celebrating her birthday while filming her Stiletto Spy School segments. Mario surprised her with a cake made up of a “tree ... Read more...
Champagne wishes and caviar dreams with Krug — for $50,000
We helped christen the new Krug Champagne Room at Restaurant Guy Savoy in Caesars Palace last night. Caesars Palace President Gary Selesner and Harrah’s Vice President Tom Jenkins cut the ribbon. The first item we saw was a truly stunning $50,000 red picnic trunk! It took 700 hours to make. The trunk holds two chairs, a full table service for two and, most importantly, three vintage magnums for the six beautiful champagne glasses! You need a driver or butler just ... Read more...
It’s twick or tweet for Mr. Vegas DeLuxe Robin Leach on Twitter
Here’s what you missed last night if you aren’t following me on Twitter yet: Holly Madison fetches $5,000; a new Hard Rock complex on the Strip; Trader Vic’s status; and the continuing feud between a hotel owner and a nightclub king. A few of my tweet highlights yesterday: *Tonight, I’ll be at the 30 chefs gathering for the Share Our Strength charity at the Hard Rock Hotel. Holly Madison acting as auctioneer. Let’s guess how much she will raise? $5,000? ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: It’s a puppet show, not a Peepshow, for Holly Madison
Our newest Las Vegas resident The Girls Next Door and Playboy starlet Holly Madison, who is about to start rehearsals for her co-starring role in Peepshow at Planet Hollywood, took her goddaughter to see singing impersonator and ventriloquist Terry Fator at his Cast of Thousands show at The Mirage. Holly, who competed on this past season of Dancing With the Stars and this week unveiled The Wizard of Oz 70th anniversary exhibit at Planet Hollywood, stopped backstage afterward for a ... Read more...
Bette Midler promises a few surprises in milestone 100th Strip show
Expect the unexpected when superstar singer Bette Midler celebrates her 100th show at the Caesars Palace Colosseum on Sunday night. Her The Showgirl Must Go On spectacular, with its brash and sassy humor, bawdy gags and the leggy Caesar Salad girls, first debuted in February of last year. Bette’s sold-out runs alternate with Cher and also had alternated with Sir Elton John and others. The Divine Miss M promises “some new and fabulous surprises” for the 100th show. To celebrate ... Read more...
Legendary local comedian Marty Allen is still going strong at 87
At 87 years of age, legendary Las Vegas comedian Marty Allen has no intention of retiring, and in addition to a full 12-months-a-year work schedule, Marty still runs two miles every afternoon for 30 minutes on a treadmill! “I feel like the Energizer Bunny — I just keep going,” Marty told me. “Quite simply, I enjoy it. I can’t stop. People ask me where I get all the energy from to keep going, and I joke that I’m on the ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Latasha Marzolla scores first-round TKO in MMA debut
It was a first-round TKO victory for former Playboy model Latasha Marzolla at The Orleans Arena when she fought Christy Tada. Latasha, who lives here in Las Vegas, had been forced by training injuries to postpone this fight for nearly two months. Contributing photographer Ray Kasprowicz was ringside as the bout got underway as part of the big Tuff-N-Uff card. After months of packed crowds in The Orleans ballroom, Tuff-N-Uff was able to move into the much larger Arena, indicating ... Read more...
Jerry Lewis films interview for documentary tribute to actress Ina Balin
Most people have never heard of actress Ina Balin, but she was a treasured star of Hollywood and Broadway. Ina had an incredible story of rescuing Vietnamese orphans from their war-ravaged country and adopted three of them herself. Now a documentary film is underway paying tribute to her humanitarian adventures and her entertainment career. Our hometown hero Jerry Lewis was among the first to honor Ina with an in-depth interview, and our contributing photographer Denise Truscello captured this portrait before ... Read more...
Motley Crue is grilled by media in Russia ahead of Moscow concert today
Somehow one wouldn’t associate the rock world’s top rebels with the strict authoritarian measures in place in Russia, but there was our hometown hero Vince Neil along with Tommy Lee, Nikki Sixx and Mick Mars at a Moscow press conference. It’s a fascinating look via YouTube of the rockers talking in their expected rowdy rock style to the Russian media this week. They headline there today. The band revealed that they will add a second stage to the upcoming Crue ... Read more...
Caesars Palace’s Gary Selesner attends The Hangover premiere in Hollywood
When the stars of the new comedy The Hangover walked the red carpet for the world premiere at Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood, they saw some familiar and friendly Las Vegas faces. Caesars Palace President Gary Selesner flew in for the premiere with Public Relations VP Debbie Munch and some of his executives who had looked after the moviemakers during their three-month location shoot. The film’s stars, ShoWest 2009 winner Bradley Cooper, Heather Graham, Ed Helms and Justin Bartha, and ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Annie Duke’s red carpet date? Joan Rivers, aka Frank Marino
By now, most TV viewers know about the ugly showdown between comedienne Joan Rivers and our Las Vegas poker professional Annie Duke when they battled on Donald Trump’s recent Celebrity Apprentice. Can we talk? Upon returning to Sin City, Annie completed her charity bid by teaming up with Frank Marino, the world’s most famous Joan Rivers impersonator, at a special ESPN event to sell lemonade for Refugees International at World Series of Poker events underway at The Rio. Frank will ... Read more...
Those rumors about a Led Zeppelin residency here? Well, not quite …
I had a feeling from the start that the rumor and tip was too good to be true. I really started with a sense of stop the presses — or stop the post button? — for an ultimate music exclusive! The trouble with being in my business is that we love to break exclusives, startling showbiz news ahead of our friendly rivals in the gossip game. Try to confirm something in secret, though, and it’s either a brick wall or ... Read more...
Hot Off the Grill: Rao’s wine collection and George Clooney at Rare 120
When RCA Records President Bob Summer entertained his music stars, he always took them to the legendary 113-year-old Rao’s in Upper Manhattan. Bob ate and drank there for 35 years and became friends of the owners. When he retired, he didn’t want to idly waste away in Connecticut, so he decided to go into the wine business there. It’s now expanded so much that his Napa Valley grapes that are matured in French oak barrels in Connecticut are being used ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: It’s Kobe vs. Dwight in Game 1 of NBA Finals
Everything is set for Game 1 of the NBA Finals in Los Angeles between the Lakers and the Orlando Magic. It’s really a sensational showdown between Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard. The Lakers beat the Denver Nuggets four games to two, and the Magic beat the Cleveland Cavaliers with the same results to arrive at this momentous battle. Even President Obama has weighed in! Before his Saudi Arabia trip, Obama predicted a win for the Lakers in six games. Our ... Read more...
Steve Wynn comes to the rescue of Katie Couric
Who did 50-year-old CBS news anchor Katie Couric turn to when she wanted a runaway vacation with her 33-year-old boyfriend entrepreneur Brooks Perlin? She’s not at all concerned about that 17-year age gap, but she did want privacy rather than curious eyes a-staring for their getaway trip. So our hotel tycoon Steve Wynn offered them his Sun Valley, Idaho, holiday home. It was available, and he wasn’t planning on using it for a while. So Katie took off unbothered by ... Read more...
Cher launches multimillion-dollar lawsuit over shortchanged royalties
Superstar singer and actress Cher has filed a five-count, 22-page lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court in a bid to recoup $5 million in royalties that she says she’s been shortchanged by over two of her hit compilation records with deceased ex-husband Sonny Bono. The Caesars Palace headliner filed the lawsuit on behalf of herself and their heirs saying that an audit showed Universal Music Group executives engaged in “wrongful tactics” to hide revenues from the two albums: Cher’s Greatest ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Holly Madison kicks up her ruby red slippers at Oz exhibit
Four Dorothy lookalikes plus reality TV stars Holly Madison and Laura Croft joined Planet Hollywood President Tom McCarthy when he walked the red carpet at his resort casino’s salute to the 70th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz! Holly and Laura even had friends create “ruby red, high-heeled, sparkly shoes” for the occasion. “It’s one of my all-time favorite movies,” Holly told me as she and Laura inspected each exhibit with requisite “ooh’s” and “ah’s.” Our contributing photographers Denise Truscello ... Read more...
Marie Osmond shares her secret to multitasking and stress: laugh
At the end of this month, Marie Osmond will celebrate her first anniversary of living in Las Vegas, and she’s loving it here. The Flamingo headliner is getting ready to start filming her new daily TV talk show here in August for the new fall season. Her life is as busy as can be, but even with being a full-time single working mom to eight children, Marie still found time to write a new book. In addition to her myriad ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Mario Batali sets up farmers market in the Palazzo today
Celebrity chef Mario Batali has gone green with Molto Vegas and today, for the first time ever in Las Vegas history, sets up a farmers market in a Strip casino. You’ll find seven local farmers in the waterfall atrium of the Palazzo with Mario and his restaurant partner Joe Bastianich, who will present his own biodynamic wines. Their three Las Vegas restaurants — Carnevino in the Palazzo and B&B Ristorante and Enoteca San Marco at the adjoining Venetian — will ... Read more...
Las Vegas’ Ed Alonzo casts a spell on Britney Spears
At London’s 02 Arena tonight, pop princess Britney Spears begins an eight-night run of sell-out Circus Tour shows. Las Vegas magician Ed Alonzo, known as “The Misfit of Magic,” continues with his three high-speed illusions that feature a disappearing and reappearing Britney in quick costume changes as his magician’s assistant. They’ve even talked about adding a fourth illusion, as Britney and her audiences are enjoying the trickery so much. Ed has written the most wonderful eight-page article — “How I ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Bachelorette Barbie hits town at the Palms
She’s one of the world’s most well-known women, but I can reveal that she’s single and that her long romance that never led to marriage is over. So where better to set up house and home than in Las Vegas? It’s the perfect place for Barbie, who broke up on Valentine’s Day with Ken after being linked for 43 years! Barbie never wed, even though she modeled dozens of wedding outfits hoping for the magic moment. Now on the high ... Read more...
Fact or fiction? Clearing up all the Michael Jackson rumors
After the King of Pop Michael Jackson postponed his first five opening shows of the This Is It run of 50 concerts in London’s 02 Arena, the tawdry tabloid tales and rumors have gotten out of control. They escalate and get worse every day. To clear up all the craziness, I went inside the Jackson camp and got answers to some sensational scoops claimed by British reporters: Rumor: Michael is dying from cancer! Fact: Totally untrue, and the top titans ... Read more...
Ghost adventurer Zak Bagans says he was ‘partially possessed’ at cemetery
The new Season 2 of Ghost Adventures premieres Friday on The Travel Channel, and once again Las Vegas producer Zak Bagans hosts and is lead investigator of the paranormal. Zak and I ran into each other at the Little Buddha Bar in the Palms, and he told me that Entertainment Weekly had just given the debut episode a grade of “A.” Zak also said that it was the first time he’d become partially possessed during his ghost-chasing exploits! Zak filmed ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: The beautiful and utterly charming Vanessa Minnillo
No wonder pop singer and hunk Nick Lachey is head over heels in love with gorgeous Vanessa Minnillo — and he’d better give her a 10-carat diamond ring for the fourth finger on her left hand! He won’t find anyone better. The brunette TV personality is utterly charming, polite and gracious — unlike many others in her business. She captivated everybody she met at the Lili Claire Spring Bling charity fundraiser at the Palazzo over the weekend — click HERE ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Gilles Marini, Kelly Monaco, Ice-T and MMA stars celebrate
Dancing With the Stars finalist Gilles Marini was on a boys’ night out in Las Vegas. Vegas DeLuxe has already told you, thanks to Holly Madison, how Gilles was pulled onstage at Planet Hollywood while watching the topless adult cabaret Peepshow. Star Mel B wanted to get Gilles for Kelly Monaco’s scene where she handcuffs an audience member to her bed, pours pink paint over him and gets his handprints to cover up strategic parts of her body! Gilles went ... Read more...
Lacey Schwimmer on new boyfriend, Donny Osmond, Lance Bass and Steve-0
On her two seasons of Dancing With the Stars, 20-year-old professional dancer Lacey Schwimmer has partnered with Lance Bass and Steve-O. Now it looks as if she will be dancing with our Flamingo headliner Donny Osmond or maybe even Luxor comic Carrot Top in the new season. However important that news might be, Lacey is far more excited about her new first real romance! But when she chatted with me at the Lili Claire Spring Bling fundraiser at the Palazzo, ... Read more...
Death-defying stunts are part of the job for 24’s Annie Wersching
After just one season on Keifer Sutherland’s hit Fox drama 24, actress Annie Wersching has suddenly started to shine in the spotlight. Annie joined the series last year at the start of Season 7 and has already been signed for Season 8. “I started out as a good girl in my first year, but then was influenced by Jack Bauer (Kiefer’s character) and ended the season a little bit on the dark side,” she told me when we talked at ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: New vampire film might shoot here and in nearby desert
The details are preliminary, but it looks as if the deal is now fully set in place. When actor Sam Elliott wraps his location filming in New Mexico with Sarah Jessica Parker and Hugh Grant, he’ll move here to star in a new vampire movie. Advance word is that the bloodthirsty tale will be shot both here and in the surrounding desert area. Sam, who is married to actress Katharine Ross, made his movie debut in the 1969 hit Butch ... Read more...
It’s playtime at the Palms’ restaurants and nightclubs
It was another all-star weekend at the Palms, and reality TV star and rapper Flavor Flav kicked it off with three stops at George Maloof’s casino resort. Flav and his girlfriend first sat on the outside terrace at Nove Italiano enjoying calamari, caprese salad, steak, spaghetti and strawberry carpaccio before he went into the kitchen to sign executive chef Geno Bernardo’s star-studded door — but Flav then upped everybody else by also signing the kitchen clock! He then hit The ... Read more...
Las Vegas-filmed The Hangover screens here tonight at Town Square
Much of America has to wait until Friday to see the new comedy The Hangover, but Las Vegas is getting the premiere screening tonight because so much of the film was shot at Caesars Palace and throughout town. The screening starts at 7 p.m. at Rave Motion Pictures in Town Square and will be followed by the official after-party at McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon in The Rio. It’s the story about a wild bachelor party night in Las Vegas that ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: All-star cooks wrap up Las Vegas filming of Top Chef
Bravo’s hit series Top Chef has just completed filming Season 6 here in Las Vegas, and the kitchen kings and queens celebrated with an official wrap party at Blush in the Wynn. Among the celebrity chefs partying were Top Chef judges Tom Colicchio from Craftsteak at MGM Grand, Padma Lakshmi and Gail Simmons. The chefs included Thomas Keller, Laura Cunningham and Timothy Hollingsworth, who have the top-rated French Laundry in Napa Valley, Calif., with a brasserie outpost in The Venetian; ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: There’s no place like Planet Hollywood for Oz and Holly Madison
Long, long ago, before Playboy beauty Holly Madison was born, The Wizard of Ozmade its movie imprint on the world. Come to think of it, and it might be difficult to believe, but that’s even before my time! Tonight, Holly will host a party as she unveils the Ruby Slipper Collection, a celebration of high fashion and fine art. Nineteen top fashion stars and 15 respected artisans designed this dual exhibit to commemorate the 70th anniversary of The Wizard of ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Spring Bling’s sexy celebs, gossip, music and fashion
The stars and the jewelry sparkled and dazzled for the Spring Bling concert and fashion show poolside at the Palazzo, and there was a full-scale Hollywood invasion to help the Lili Claire Foundation fundraiser. Even though gorgeous Vanessa Minnillo was solo, she assured me that her romance with Nick Lachey was still very much on despite rumors they’d broken up! It all began on the red carpet at the waterfall fountains of the Palazzo with Khloe Kardashian and mom Kris ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Christina Aguilera helps launch bling and confirms Burlesque
Three sets of difficult PR girls — a total of five of them — tried to stop pop princess Christina Aguilera and her jewelry designer pal Stephen Webster from talking to us — after they’d invited us in the first place to do exactly that. But the twosome politely kept on chatting, which was the original purpose of the red carpet invitation at Tao in The Venetian! Even with the PR people unprofessionally walking among the stars as if they ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Jamie Kennedy, Jennifer Love Hewitt and Jersey Boys
They simply won’t go home because they’re having too much fun on their Las Vegas vacation! Last week, we reported their honeymoon-styled fling, and now I can tell you that Ghost Whisperer lovebirds Jennifer Love Hewitt and Jamie Kennedy also have added Jersey Boys to their list of must-see shows. After watching the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, which just celebrated its first anniversary at the Palazzo, the loving twosome went backstage to congratulate talented leads Erich ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Sasha Grey aims for adult and mainstream film success
XXX-rated actress Sasha Grey made it perfectly clear when she celebrated the premiere of The Girlfriend Experience that she isn’t turning her back on her adult film career. The 21-year-old erotic beauty, who stars in the film by Academy Award-winning director Steven Soderbergh (Traffic), was at Lavo in the Palazzo for the celebration. Our contributing photographers Denise Truscello and Erik Kabik were on duty for the shots that make up this photo gallery. Members of two adult-industry organizations in 2008 ... Read more...
Mel B hosts US Weekly‘s Hot Bodies party at Tao Beach
Talk about a smokin’ hot body! Peepshow star Mel B was the perfect choice to host the Tao Beach party at The Venetian for US Weekly’s annual Hot Bodies issue. Mel selected a teenie weenie black bikini and stilettos for her walk around the outdoor oasis for our contributing photographer Denise Truscello, who captured these truly sizzling photos. Believe it or not, Mel, who is in her 30s, also is the mother of two children. She danced at her VIP ... Read more...
A sneak peek at the pretty in pink Barbie Suite at the Palms
Nobody will accept the fact that Barbie has celebrated her 50th birthday because she’s as young and as fresh today as when she first hit the scene a half century ago! To salute the greatest doll of all time, the Palms today will unveil the Barbie Suite in the hotel’s Fantasy Tower, and as you would expect, Vegas DeLuxe has the first fabulous sneak peek thanks to our contributing photographer Denise Truscello. Inside the pink and pampered palace, guests will ... Read more...
Poker legend Amarillo Slim is back at the World Series of Poker
Once dubbed “the world’s greatest gambler,” Thomas Austin Preston Jr., aka Amarillo Slim, took part in yesterday’s prestigious World Series of Poker 2009 Champions Invitational at The Rio, where this year’s tournament is now underway. “When it comes to poker players, there is a fine line between genius and insanity,” said Doyle Brunson in one of his recent blogs. There’s little doubt that Doyle was referring to longtime traveling and poker playing companion Amarillo Slim. There was literally nothing that ... Read more...
Heather Graham helps Vegas magazine celebrate its 6th anniversary
Boogie Nights and Austin Powers actress Heather Graham was the star attraction at our sister Vegas magazine’s 6th anniversary party at Pure in Caesars Palace on Saturday night. Comedian Bill Maher and Playboy beauty Holly Madison also dropped in separately to help celebrate. Heather, who stars in the comedy Hangover opening Friday, is on the cover of this month’s Vegas, the one Bill is photographed holding. The 39-year-old actress filmed Hangover here at Caesars Palace, and the comedy starring Bradley ... Read more...
Labor Day Weekend: Myriad options in Las Vegas packed into four days
Inflated prices for entry and cabanas at nightclubs. Lines stretching around corners. The final big pool weekend before autumn arrives. LMFAO hosting at ...
Photos: Bridget Marquardt talks bikinis, TV, watches and Las Vegas
The Girls Next Door and Bridget’s Sexiest Beaches star was the snow princess hosting the Stereo Loves Snow Day Moet Ice Imperial champagne party ...
If you are Paris Hilton and Cy Waits, what happens here doesn't stay here
When Las Vegas markets itself as an adult playground, we can't expect that unfortunate incidents involving celebrity ...
With all-star release, Hard Rock Hotel's Joint is guitar heaven
Carlos Santana's VIP guests ranged from India.Arie to Gavin Rossdale to Chris Daughtry as he gave attendees a healthy sampling ...
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