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Luxe Life Blog • Archive for September 2009
Strip Scribbles: Las Vegas Rocks Cafe to open in Neonopolis
Las Vegas entertainer and radio and TV host Tony Sacca is taking over the former Jillian’s space in downtown Neonopolis and will open his first Las Vegas Rocks Cafe. If all goes well, a national franchise chain of Las Vegas Rocks Cafe is planned, with the next outlet in New York City. During 24 years as host of his TV show Entertainment Las Vegas Style, Tony has developed a catalog library of interviews with more than 500 celebrities and Las ... Read more...
Reality TV Wrap: Top Chef: Las Vegas and DWTS
It’s our reality TV wrap! Our friend Johnny Avello at the Wynn Sports Book has peered into the future and determined the new odds for tonight’s elimination episode of Top Chef: Las Vegas on Bravo. Here are the odds, with opening and current numbers: Michael Voltaggio, 11/1, 2/1; Jennifer Carroll, 20/1, 7/2; Kevin Gillespie, 8/1, 4/1; Bryan Voltaggio, 15/1, 8/1; Ashley Merriman, 30/1, 12/1; Michael Isabella, 25/1, 15/1; Laurine Wickett, 14/1, 25/1; Eli Kirshtein, 22/1, 20/1; Ash Fulk, 35/1, 40/1; ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Creed and Van Morrison in concert at The Joint
Fans from as far away as the British Isles and Australia traveled to Las Vegas for Van Morrison’s sold-out concert at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel. Van wore his trademark dark sunglasses and his iconic black fedora for the show. Our contributing photographer Erik Kabik, who shot our extraordinary photo gallery with our Tom Donoghue alongside, told me: “At times, you could hear a pin drop in The Joint as he skatted and whispered some of his vocals ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Kenny G joins Justin Timberlake golf tournament
Pop prince Justin Timberlake has persuaded superstar saxophonist Kenny G to take part in his Oct. 14 celebrity golf tournament here to raise funds for Shriners Hospitals for Children. Kenny is one of the biggest-selling instrumental musicians of the modern era, with global sales totaling more than 75 million albums, with 45 million of those sold in the U.S. Kenny is ranked No. 1 on Golf Digest’s Top 100 list of musician golfers. Kenny, who has played golf since high ... Read more...
DWTS Photo Gallery: Donny breaks out; Chuck, Kelly in danger?
For Donny Osmond to grab the winning disco ball trophy on Season 9 of Dancing With the Stars, the Flamingo headliner has to perform some fancy footwork and quick step his way past Mya and Aaron Carter. The three stars are now the breakaway pack after last night’s second week of celebrity dancing on ABC’s top-rated show. On tonight’s broadcast, the leaders are totally safe, with Mya and Aaron tied at 27 points and Donny right behind with 25. A ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Debbie Allen celebrates new Fame at the Paris
Golden Globe and Emmy winner Debbie Allen was just a dance teacher in the original Fame movie. Now nearly 30 years later in the retelling of the Oscar-winning hit, Debbie has graduated to principal at the New York City High School of Performing Arts. Debbie choreographed and directed Mariah Carey’s new tour, including her recent stop at The Pearl in the Palms (Mariah returns there Oct. 9 and 10). Fame follows a talented group of dancers, singers, artists and actors ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Autumn has arrived at Bellagio’s Botanical Gardens
With summer officially over, it regrettably means that winter is not too far away. Fortunately, in between, we have that short but glorious season known to you as fall and to me as autumn. Thankfully, before the chill sets in on the desert nights, the Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are welcoming the new season with a picturesque harvest tableau celebrating the sights and colors of autumn. Our contributing photographer Tom Donoghue went to the display to capture his great ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Eva Longoria Parker sets date for Beso opening
Gorgeous Eva Longoria Parker has picked New Year’s Eve for the grand opening of her restaurant Beso at MGM’s CityCenter. The restaurant, in partnership with celebrity chef Todd English (Olives at the Bellagio), is a two-story attraction with the nightclub Eve atop. Yes, Eve with an “e” and not named after the Desperate Housewives actress! Eva’s co-stars on the ABC drama will be making the trip over the desert to join her to welcome in 2010! The soft opening is ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Emeril’s Stadium soiree with sports and Hollywood stars
It was a Super Bowl-sized mega-sports star party for the opening night of celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse’s new Stadium Bar & Grill in the Palazzo complete with its own sports book as a Las Vegas first! Venetian and Palazzo President Rob Goldstein introduced the “kick it up a notch” New Orleans-based chef who has three other outposts here: Delmonico’s and Table 10 at the Venetian and Palazzo and Emeril’s Fish House at MGM Grand. “This, though, has been the dream,” ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Lance Bass gets surprise lap dance at Britney’s show
Britney Spears sure went out with a bang! In fact, it was the biggest explosion I’ve seen and heard in my 10 years in Las Vegas: Hundreds of thousands of silver-colored confetti fired from stage-side cannons showered the audience in waves of giant blasts to mark the final show of the seven-month Circus Tour starring Britney Spears. The pop princess was center stage as a circle of golden sparklers poured down around her! It also was a take your kids ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Aubrey’s first week of illegal pics, illness, dogs
Aubrey O’Day’s debut week in Peepshow at Planet Hollywood was one eventful roller coaster ride. It began when somebody shot illegal photos of her first preview and leaked the topless shots to a controversial Hollywood blogger and the scandalous London tabloids. Both made unwarranted, rude and vile comments about the former Danity Kane singer, and Aubrey wound up spending her first night hiring lawyers after her celebration party at Prive with her grandmother, father and family friends was cut short ... Read more...
Chuck, Donny and Kelly face tough competition on DWTS’ second week
Our three Las Vegas favorites Kelly Osbourne, Flamingo headliner Donny Osmond and UFC star Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell are all ready for battle tonight in the second week of Season 9 of ABC’s Dancing With the Stars. Chief judge and curmudgeon Len Goodman won’t be handing out scores on the hit show when it broadcasts live from Hollywood with another two-hour episode. Instead, Australian director Baz Luhrmann of Strictly Ballroom, Moulin Rouge and Australia fame will take on that duty. ... Read more...
Exclusive Photos: Chris Daughtry duets with Tim McGraw, Dane Cook
When I filed my live, real-time reports from the Andre Agassi Grand Slam fundraising concert last night on Twitter about Chris Daughtry performing duets with country superstar Tim McGraw and comedian Dane Cook, I never would’ve guessed that there’d be so many responses via emails and tweets wanting to see photos to prove it! Not many of you believed that you would see Chris and Tim performing a gospel country song together. Even more of you refused to believe that ... Read more...
Britney Spears’ spectacular Circus Tour ends here tomorrow
It’s been an incredible success story for pop princess Britney Spears. Back on March 3 in New Orleans, she kicked off her Circus Tour, and now after stops through Europe and Canada, she ends its run right here in Las Vegas tomorrow night. It’s a remarkable comeback for the 27-year-old singer who was written off by the tabloids and their lurid headlines after her emotional breakdown and collapse. Circus ends its run as Britney gets ready for her Hollywood Walk ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: It’s Britney vs. Miley vs. Liza vs. Donna
It’s a head-to-head battle between the princesses of pop and the divine divas when Britney Spears goes up against Miley Cyrus and Liza Minnelli clashes opposite Donna Summer — they’re all facing off in one fabulous Las Vegas weekend of music’s magnificent megastars. Britney starts the first of two nights of her final act of the Circus Tour shows — her seventh world tour — at Mandalay Bay Events Center tomorrow. On this visit, she has guests Jordin Sparks and ... Read more...
Aubrey O’Day premieres in Peepshow; Burlesque news
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Mr. Vegas DeLuxe Robin Leach is scheduled to interview former Danity Kane singer Aubrey O’Day and former Playboy star Holly Madison, the beautiful and busty headliners of Peepshow in Planet Hollywood, this weekend. Aubrey had her official premiere in Peepshow last night after a drama-filled week that included unauthorized topless photos from her Monday debut appearing online on Tuesday. Our leading lens lady Denise Truscello and our contributing photographers Erik Kabik, Scott Harrison and ... Read more...
Britney Spears films secret video and possible TV special during visit
It’s shrouded in secrecy, and I’m not even supposed to know it’s happening, let alone the when and the where. But pop princess Britney Spears should be shooting a new video for “3 Love” before, after and in between her two concerts at Mandalay Bay Events Center tomorrow and Sunday. The new single will be released to radio stations on Tuesday! When I heard the title “3 Love” in Las Vegas, my mind didn’t go to tennis but to a ... Read more...
Agassi’s Grand Slam includes Daughtry, Dane Cook, Tim McGraw
For the 14th year, our hometown hero, tennis champion and philanthropist Andre Agassi throws his star-studded Grand Slam concert event to raise funds for his College Preparatory Academy that is transforming education. This year is no exception, and tomorrow Tim McGraw, Dane Cook, Daughtry and Brian McKnight are the headliners. As usual, my pal David Foster is the musical director. Andre’s Grand Slam events have raised nearly $75 million since 1995, and he said: “Each year, the stars align and ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Mr. Las Vegas’ Once Before I Go at Tropicana
Superstar entertainer Wayne Newton candidly confessed yesterday that the title of his new Tropicana show is probably apropos — and true. When his new run there wraps next spring, he will have completed a 50-year showbiz run — and he’s getting ready to call it quits on a full-time basis. Wayne told me in a one-on-one sit-down interview: “It’s been an extraordinary half-century, and I’d like to share all those memories once before I go! It’s time for me to ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Fabulous Fantasy feline starts new career
Gorgeous Fantasy singer and show host Stephanie Jordan has just one week left starring in the topless burlesque cabaret revue at the Luxor, and as of next Thursday embarks on a new recording career. After nine years at the helm of Fantasy, she’s taking the big step of forming a band, and her first solo CD Small Town Girl is due for release next month. Stephanie told me: “I’ve written music for fun in the past, but now it’s time ... Read more...
New Tropicana owner reveals details of $200 million makeover
When new Tropicana head honcho Alex Yemenidjian finishes spending nearly $200 million, he’ll have converted the aging resort casino into a cool, swank, hip, polished and hot Miami Beach hideaway. The new owner also plans a massive two-story, 25,000-square-foot nightclub right on the Strip facing opposite the MGM Grand and Excalibur. Alex told me yesterday in his first real conversation about his major money-spending makeover: “We are not copying anything. We are not making a caricature of Miami. We just ... Read more...
Counter Intelligence: Guy Savoy and Wolfgang Puck’s new menus; Twist
Hot off the grill! Innovative Parisian three-star Michelin chef Pierre Gagnaire didn’t have time on his quick France-U.S. round-trip flight to make it to Las Vegas, but he did have just enough time in New York to show 40 of America’s top food writers what’s in store for us when he opens his first U.S. restaurant, Twist, in December here at the Mandarin Oriental in MGM’s CityCenter. Even the resort’s general manager, Rajesh Jhingon, had to jet to Manhattan for ... Read more...
Bodybuilders compete for Mr. and Ms. Olympia at The Orleans
It’s the most prestigious event in the world for bodybuilders. Those magnificent men with bulging biceps and mountainous muscles flex and pose for the fifth consecutive Mr. Olympia weekend at The Orleans! The fitness fanatics arrive today and are judged tomorrow along with the Ms. Olympia finals and fitness contests. On Saturday, it’s the Mr. Olympia finals. A win at the annual bodybuilding competition sponsored by the International Federation of Bodybuilders is considered the highest accolade in the professional sport. ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: No shocking DWTS exits; Donny, Chuck, Kelly safe
It came right down to the wire! Our regular Las Vegas visitor Kelly Osbourne was left standing in the final three before Dancing With the Stars host Tom Bergeron announced who was being booted off the first results show: Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor’s best girlfriend supermodel Kathy Ireland or controversial singer Macy Gray. As we’d predicted, Macy, who’d upset viewers and censors with her previous night’s remarks, was axed, and Kelly was declared safe to dance again next Monday! Said Macy: ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Nick and Vanessa extend their Vegas vacation
Nick Lachey and Vanessa Minnillo don’t seem to be in any hurry to leave town — they’re just having too much of a good time together on their honeymoon-styled Las Vegas vacation. They’ve been staying in a sumptuous suite at the Palazzo and reveling in the resort’s luxuries. They returned for a third time to First Food & Bar and ordered Grandma’s Pizza and ice cream sandwiches to watch yet another game on the big screens there. *The Las Vegas ... Read more...
Penn & Teller play a few tricks on Top Chef: Las Vegas
Our edgy and well-liked magicians Penn & Teller dice with death in their brilliantly unique shows at The Rio. Tonight, though, those cruel tricks will be aimed at the remaining contestants on Top Chef: Las Vegas when the conjuring couple guest star, and don’t expect it to be pretty! Teller might well catch a bullet fired from a gun, but one chef will get one tonight and be axed from the Bravo series. On last week’s show, which featured cooking ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: On DWTS tonight, The Lion King, Swayze tribute, results
After two nights of competition for the gentlemen and the ladies on Dancing With the Stars, there’s jostling at the top that is making a clear leader unclear so far — and several contenders at the bottom who will be booted on tonight’s results show. Last night, we reported the immediate scores for the ladies, and here’s how they looked after their relay race dances: Joanna Krupa partnered with Derek Hough: 34; Mya and Dmitry Chaplin: 31; Kelly Osbourne and ... Read more...
Exclusive: Holly Madison reveals secrets of Vegas-based Planet Holly
“It will be a guilty pleasure with a lot of eye candy.” That’s how Peepshow star Holly Madison described her new reality TV series Planet Holly to me in an exclusive interview. Holly will film it entirely on location here in Las Vegas starting Oct. 12 — one day after E! Entertainment launches a two-night premiere of the new season of The Girls Next Door. Those two debut episodes have Holly’s former love Hugh Hefner leading his new three-pack of ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Lance Burton may have a special guest at show tonight
Tonight marks the return of master magician Lance Burton to his theater at the Monte Carlo after a brief vacation, and no less than big fight winner Floyd Mayweather Jr. might drop by. Turns out Floyd is quite a fan and says that he always takes his out-of-town friends to see the show. “I’ve been to see Lance about 12 times now,” Floyd said. “I’ve been obsessed with magic since I was a little kid. I love magic but don’t ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Partying with Ali, Lacey, Kid Cudi and Chuy
For Mean Girls actress Lacey Chabert, it was a weekend-long 27th birthday celebration that she won’t soon forget because in true Vegas style, it was jam-packed from the moment she landed. It began when the bubbly brunette arrived at Tabu Ultra Lounge in MGM Grand in a knockout emerald and gold strapless dress. Lacey brought an intimate group of friends, along with her mother, to dance the night away. Fans flashed photos of the petite actress as she stole the ... Read more...
Tom Cruise receives wild invitation from Rick’s Cabaret dancers
When superstar actor Tom Cruise appeared on Mirage headliner Jay leno’s new NBC primetime nightly variety talk show, he let slip a saucy secret. Tom revealed that he’s never stepped foot inside a strip club — but had wondered what the experience might be like! Now our topless temptresses from Rick’s Cabaret here have invited him to see what he’s been missing! They’ve sent him an offer of a night that he will never forget. “Tom needs to get over ... Read more...
Strip Shows: Springer, The Wayner, Fantasy, DMB and Zowie Bowie
There are a lot of changes coming to the Strip, and with new shows and new stars, producers are waging a war with one another in the never-ending battle for box office supremacy! We have the full Royal Robin Rundown right here: Jerry Springer Talk show titan Jerry Springer hosts the live version of America’s Got Talent starting Oct. 7 as a Wednesday-through-Sunday 7 p.m. production at Planet Hollywood through Dec. 13. Peepshow will continue at 9 p.m. I can ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Floyd Mayweather Jr. talks Manny Pacquiao
Following up on our weekend postings of the Floyd Mayweather Jr. fight, I didn’t tell you then what Floyd uttered on the red carpet. He was constantly badgered about his victory leading to a megabucks battle with Manny Pacquiao. Said Floyd: “I’ll let the fans rate me on how I did with (Juan Manuel) Marquez and how Pacquiao did with Marquez. Pacquiao is a good fighter; I don’t want to take anything away from him. I want to take it ... Read more...
Reunited Nick Lachey and Vanessa Minnillo’s weekend at the Palazzo
Ever since the gorgeous and stunning Vanessa Minnillo showed me a large diamond ring on her left hand, both of us have been vilified for mocking her romance with Nick Lachey. The tabloids had a field day, saying it caused the two of them to break up or at least cope with a very rocky bump in Lover’s Lane! (Click HERE for that fashion weekend in June at the Palazzo.) Well I’m thrilled to reveal that the two of them ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Kid Rock rocks The Pearl in the Palms
Grammy Award-winning musician Kid Rock simply shined brilliantly in his concert at The Pearl Concert Theater in the Palms. Leading lens lady Denise Truscello and our contributing photographer Scott Harrison were front and center for the show. I couldn’t help but think of the fight that Kid Rock had with Tommy Lee in the same showroom during the MTV Video Music Awards two years ago over their mutual ex-wife Pamela Anderson. After his show, Kid Rock was a guest of ... Read more...
Donny and Chuck are ready to do battle on Dancing With the Stars
For the first time tonight, a record 16 celebrity contestants will attempt to showcase their dancing skills on Season 9 of ABC’s top-rated Dancing With the Stars — and two of them will immediately be axed 48 hours later! The entire group met up together in Hollywood yesterday afternoon for the first time, too, and faces two sets of dress rehearsals today before the live, two-hour telecast gets underway at 8 p.m. on the East Coast. We’ll be keeping a ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Phantom costumes, makeup, theater and Harold Prince
Sam Fleming, Phantom — Las Vegas Spectacular associate costume designer, conducted an insider costume and makeup session for 150 die-hard fans during the inaugural Phantom Fans Week at The Venetian. Jason Hammond of Los Angeles was selected to be transformed into The Phantom, and Ashley Yarbrough from Cortez, New Mexico, was chosen to become Christine Daae. The fans learned about the great amount of discipline, dedication and devotion that goes into the costume and makeup work for the Phantom spectacular. ... Read more...
Will Aubrey O’Day go topless in Peepshow debut tonight?
Fun-loving, trouble-seeking, self-described wild child Aubrey O’Day debuts tonight in Peepshow at Planet Hollywood, and I know the secret as to whether or not she goes topless. The glamour girl who flaunted her assets for Playboy in March has spent the last week in full-on rehearsals with Peepshow director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell, who conceived the production that also stars Holly Madison — her contract as Bo Peep was recently extended for one full year! Check back here on Wednesday ... Read more...
It’s a celebration for The Killers back at home, too
Hometown rockers The Killers scored their own knockout last night while Floyd Mayweather Jr. was victorious just across the Strip! Just yards from each other — Floyd at MGM Grand and The Killers at Mandalay Bay — fans caused one monumental traffic jam this mighty and memorable weekend of super-action. Nobody does it better than Las Vegas when it comes to super-sporting events and incredible concerts. Certainly not within 100 yards of each other on the same street anywhere else ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Mayweather is back on top after big win
Our hometown hero Floyd Mayweather Jr. ended his 2007 retirement last night with a unanimous victory over Juan Manuel Marquez at MGM Grand Garden Arena. Our contributing photographers Tom Donoghue and Erik Kabik were on hand to capture the ringside, behind-the-scenes and party action for our Vegas DeLuxe photo galleries. Floyd celebrated his win with a party at Studio 54, and you’d never have guessed an hour earlier, he’d just gone 12 rounds in the ring! As expected, music mogul ... Read more...
Mayweather defeats Marquez in front of star-studded MGM crowd
The king of the ring is back! Las Vegas resident Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr. soundly and unanimously defeated Juan Manuel Marquez in 12 rounds at MGM Grand Garden Arena tonight. Floyd didn’t win with a KO, but it was a knockout performance! For my real-time tweets of The Big Fight, click on my Twitter page HERE, and check back to Vegas DeLuxe tomorrow for our full photo gallery of tonight’s bout, plus our coverage of Floyd’s official after-party at Studio ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Tattoo convention to be world record-breaking
For the first time, Las Vegas will host the Biggest Tattoo Show on Earth at Mandalay Bay starting Oct. 2. More than 50,000 attendees and tattoo artists are expected. It is the seventh annual show and is regarded as the most powerful educational forum in the world for the tattoo industry. Mario Barth, owner of Starlight Tattoo at Mandalay Bay, will host the convention. Over the three days, expect showcases of live tattooing and piercing, charity events, tattoo contests, seminars ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Mayweather does charity work ahead of star arrivals, bout
Floyd Mayweather Jr. is so ready and relaxed for tomorrow night’s ring war against Juan Manuel Marquez that he even took time out yesterday from his workouts and sparring sessions. Floyd decided to continue with his under the radar donations to the homeless and unemployed here, so he brushed off the 84-degree heat and personally handed out sack lunches with cold water in the community. One group of children approached him for food, so Floyd asked where their mother was ... Read more...
Tony Curtis: New movie and book — and two secrets he’ll take to the grave
Screen legend Tony Curtis greeted me like a long lost friend this week, and it was as if he was glad to be alive and renewing acquaintances. I’m assuming that was because the 84-year-old superstar who lives here in Las Vegas had a health scare while in New York recently on his art and book tour. I was the only reporter present at the Chaine des Rotisseurs dinner for sommeliers and wine enthusiasts in Rao’s at Caesars Palace. Tony had ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Kid Rock returns to Palms for knockout show
Las Vegas has been a second home to Kid Rock for most of his career, so last night, the rocker was right at home in The Pearl Concert Theater in the Palms for a show that had ecstatic fans dancing and hollering for more. Leading lens lady Denise Truscello and contributing photographer Scott Harrison captured these up-close and intimate action photos of the knockout performance for our photo gallery. Kid is a regular Palms visitor, and it’s even figured in ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Has Brock Lesnar met his match in Shane Carwin?
Has Brock Lesnar finally met his match after facing and overpowering some of the best heavyweight fighters in the world? The UFC heavyweight titleholder dominated seasoned veteran Heath Herring and put away former champions Randy Couture and Frank Mir. Now on Nov. 21, Brock will have to pick on someone his own size when he takes on the undefeated 6-foot-3, 262-pound top contender Shane Carwin during UFC 106 at Mandalay Bay Events Center. The night also will see the return ... Read more...
Donny Osmond and Kym Johnson show off their dance moves
It’s now just four days before we see Donny Osmond’s first performance on Season 9 of Dancing With the Stars. Our Flamingo headliner and pro partner Kym Johnson have been rehearsing five hours each day in advance of next week’s three-night premiere, and they gave a private demonstration of their fancy footwork and salsa skills to TV executives and business insiders meeting in Pasadena, Calif. ABC head honcho Steve McPherson kept Donny and Kym as a surprise closing routine after ... Read more...
Lily Tomlin to make Strip debut at MGM Grand on Nov. 10
It’s difficult to believe that comedienne Lily Tomlin first hit the comedy spotlight on Laugh-In back in 1969! Thirty years later, Lily is finally making her Las Vegas debut. As I first reported exclusively on Twitter yesterday, Lily will launch her show Not Playing With a Full Deck on Nov. 10 at the MGM Grand’s Hollywood Theater. I can reveal that Lily is creating a special “Joker” section of special seating at the showroom, which enrolls golden audience members into ... Read more...
Joe Jackson to receive celebrity star at the Palms
Hours before the premiere screening of Michael Jackson’s film This Is It, family patriarch Joe Jackson will be presented with his own celebrity star at the Brenden Theaters in the Palms. The ceremony will take place on Oct. 27, and I have learned exclusively that Joe’s star will be placed right alongside that of his son. Click HERE for our coverage of the Brenden star tribute that I emceed honoring Michael on his birthday, Aug. 29, which would have been ... Read more...
Bryan Ogden returns to Caesars opposite Dad’s restaurant
Chef Bryan Ogden is returning to Caesars Palace with a brand new casual restaurant concept, I can exclusively reveal. He will be taking over the former Elton John retail space near the front lobby and opening on Super Bowl weekend! The new bistro, to be known as Munch, will be steps away from where he previously worked with his father in the fine dining restaurant Bradley Ogden. It was heavily rumored and reported in Las Vegas food circles that the ... Read more...
Exclusive: Mom-to-be Celine Dion signs new contract, sets starting date
Singing superstar Celine Dion and husband and manager Rene Angelil may not have settled on a name for their new baby to be born in late April or early May, but they have picked the return date for a new run of shows on the Strip! I’m certain that my exclusive will be shot down by all concerned because it’s so far in advance, but I can reveal that Celine plans to be singing New Year’s Eve of next year ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: NASCAR gets OK to shut down the Strip for victory lap
The news isn’t supposed to be released yet, but Clark County and downtown officials have given NASCAR the green light to have 10 NASCAR racecars drive the Strip. The victory lap featuring the Top 10 drivers of the year is set for early evening Dec. 5. The run will precede the annual NASCAR dinner and awards ceremony at the MGM Grand. It’s the first time the prestigious event that attracts thousands of NASCAR folks and fans will be held in ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Concerts celebrate Mexican Independence Day
It’s a blockbuster weeklong party of Latin American stars celebrating today’s Mexican Independence Day, and it’s topped off this weekend with The Big Fight between Juan Manuel Marquez and Floyd Mayweather Jr. — click HERE for our large photo gallery and coverage this morning. Last night, Grammy-winning singer Alejandro Fernandez performed at Mandalay Bay Events Center. Nicknamed “El Potrillo,” or the Little Colt, Alejandro has wowed fans with his mainstream Mexican pop music after a long career specializing in more ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Cheap Trick pays tribute to The Beatles at the Hilton
Cheap Trick threw open the doors at the Las Vegas Hilton last night so that photographers could capture their Beatles salute spectacular Sgt. Pepper Live complete with a backup symphony orchestra. Our contributing photographers Tom Donoghue and Scott Harrison were on duty and captured these great shots for our photo gallery. Click HERE for our Senior Editor John Katsilometes’ Cheap Trick coverage. Cheap Trick frontman Robin Zander and his boys, the orchestra and guest stars dazzled last night’s audience, which ... Read more...
Top Chef: Las Vegas into the desert for do-or-die challenges
After last week’s stare down with the top French chefs of our city, the cheftestants on Top Chef: Las Vegas probably thought it couldn’t get any tougher. But they didn’t know what faced them when the next challenge sent them into the desert to cook a cactus — and they had to really rough it by sleeping under the stars! It’s part of the cowboy menu they serve in tonight’s new Bravo episode, where guest chef Tim Love will help ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Mayweather, Marquez @MGM; regimen with urine confirmed
It was the official arrival for boxers Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Juan Manuel Marquez and perfect timing for today’s Mexican Independence Day celebration. Floyd and Juan arrived at the MGM Grand main lobby to meet and take photos with fans and then chat informally with members of the media. Our contributing photographers Tom Donoghue and Erik Kabik were up close to the display ring in the resort’s lobby with the casino’s lucky gold lion statue, where the two champions posed ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Wayne Brady begins taping Let’s Make a Deal
It’s been quite a ride for comedy star Wayne Brady, who started out in Las Vegas working six shows a day at the now shuttered amusement park behind MGM Grand. Today, The Venetian headliner starts double duty hosting the revival of TV game show Let’s Make a Deal. The tapings will take place at the Tropicana and be filmed as a daily CBS series this fall. Former LMAD host Monty Hall has signed on as a consultant to the production ... Read more...
Exclusive: Aubrey O’Day preps for her role as Peep Diva in Peepshow
Peepshow’s newest Peep Diva, sexy knockout Aubrey O’Day, says she’s about to become the Strip’s new favorite wild child! “Vegas has met its match!” she told me. “Buckle up and get ready for a ride no one else has ever given you.” The Danity Kane star admits to being rebellious, and I pointed out the two barcodes of her albums that she has tattooed on her back as proof of that! “You now have the No. 1 bad girl here ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Bloodless bullfights and Ricardo Arjona
The weeklong celebrations for tomorrow’s Mexican Independence Day continue onward. Our contributing photographer Erik Kabik captured the spectacle, excitement and action of the bloodless bullfighting that began yesterday at the South Point Arena. The Toros Las Vegas Bloodless Bullfighting at South Point Equestrian Arena kicked off yesterday and will be followed by another session today. The matadors and bulls return here Sept. 27-30. Erik commented: “The matador and banderilleros, all wearing their monteras (hats worn by matadors), help prep the ... Read more...
Cirque news: founder in space countdown; Elvis show secrets
Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte is about to fulfill a childhood dream in 15 days by rocketing into outer space for a 12-day stay aboard the International Space Station. As Canada’s first private explorer in space, he has shelled out nearly $50 million for the ride! It will coincide with the launch of Cirque’s first-ever residency show in Moscow, and Guy got a break from the tough disciplined pre-flight workouts over the weekend to welcome his troupe to Kiev. ... Read more...
Our chefs and X Burlesque are a hit at the Toronto Film Festival
If you have to showcase our city’s finest assets while competing against Hollywood superstars, you’d better shake and stir them simultaneously to get attention! The titillating topless dancers from X Burlesque at the Flamingo and two of our town’s top toques flew to Toronto as our star attractions at the annual Toronto International Film Festival. It was a stroke of marketing genius by officials at our Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority to steal the spotlight away from Oscar winners ... Read more...
Does new Tom Hanks film signal Barry Manilow exit from Hilton?
When the entertainment bible of showbiz reports a movie in its planning and development stages, it usually means it will come to fruition sooner rather than later. So it’s the Barry Manilow movie project that has folks wondering if it’s a clue in his continuing negotiations to remain at the Las Vegas Hilton, where his current contract expires in December. Click HERE for my interview with Barry in May, when he talked with me about his Hilton residency and the ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Is newlywed Christina Milian pregnant?
Rumors are rampant that singer Christina Milian and music producer The Dream are expecting their first baby. They were married here in a surprise runaway wedding on Sept. 4 at Britney Spears’ favorite Little White Wedding Chapel, and friends of the couple say the wedding was on regardless of the pregnancy. This will be Christina’s first baby, and in interviews, she and The Dream have said that they would love to start a family together. *Mark your calendars now! The ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: VMAs highlight (Jackson tribute); lowlight (Kanye West)
Las Vegas was well represented at last night’s MTV Video Music Awards, as Madonna paid a moving tribute to the late King of Pop before Michael Jackson’s sister Janet was featured in the opening six-minute performance. Family patriarch Joe Jackson was there for the awards show and posed on the red carpet, too. Criss Angel’s Believe show choreographer Wade Robson was one of the featured performers in the “Smooth Criminal” routine in the live broadcast from Radio City Music Hall ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Matt Goss premiere includes Pussycat Doll, ex-fiancee
I hereby nominate British singing sensation Matt Goss as the leader of a new Rat Pack of Las Vegas stars. With all due respect, it’s time to retire the legend of Frank Sinatra and let Matt ascend to those heights! At his Palms premiere in The Gossy Lounge, he didn’t just hit a home run; he knocked it right out of the ballpark. Wow, what a night! This was lightning excitement, and of course it didn’t hurt that one of ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: CSI, Frankie, Luis, Matt, Nicole, Vince sparkle and shine
Nobody does it better than Las Vegas when it comes to superstars, premieres and parties. There’s simply no place on Earth where it shines brighter than our glittering and glamorous city! Wow, what an amazing night! Here, the first, fast and furious shots from an all-star posse of platinum photographers who were editing until dawn even as the stars continued partying until sun up this morning. And it doesn’t end with the amazing all-night-long action because Vegas never stops, and ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Mariah Carey dazzles @Palms; is residency in store?
Superstar singer Mariah Carey “floated in like an angel” when her knockout show opened at The Pearl Concert Theater in the Palms last night. Mimi looked mag-Mimi-cent, radiating like a heavenly creature on a three-day pass from above and made the most of every moment of her earthbound stay in Sin City. Mariah’s visit and platinum performance have already prompted serious talk about her considering a regular residency here — maybe along the lines of Carlos Santana’s deal at The ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: $100,000 up for grabs in Palms Halloween costume contest
Time flies! No sooner does the Labor Day holiday become history than our marketing savvy casino resorts press the button on promotional plans for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s! First up, the Oct. 31 flamboyant insanity of the night of the dead. The Palms is the first to announce that it’s putting more than $100,000 in cash and prizes into the pot for its Night of the Killer Costumes contest, and all of its nightclub venues will be participating. ... Read more...
CSI, Mariah Carey, Vince Neil, Matt Goss and Zowie Bowie
It’s a real blockbuster weekend for Las Vegas: Marg Helgenberger leads her CSI cast to open CSI: The Experience at the MGM Grand. Superstar singer Mariah Carey has the first two up-close and intimate shows of a four-set run at The Pearl Concert Theater in the Palms. Motley Crue rocker Vince Neil, who calls Vegas home, opens his tattoo parlor at The Rio with a free concert in Masquerade Village and throws another party right after to celebrate the opening ... Read more...
Charo cancellation: Injured foot or poor ticket sales at the Riviera?
Rumors abound that the real reason Charo suspended her show at the Riviera yesterday, citing a foot injury, is because of disappointing and sluggish box office ticket sales. Producers were allegedly bleeding red ink due to falling tourism numbers and the barren, darkened stretch of the Strip between the Encore and Sahara. Charo says the ankle injury sustained after a TV cable trip backstage at the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon this past weekend at the South Point made ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Pink’s Hot Dogs names hot dog after Miss America
Lovely Katie Stam, who won the Miss America 2009 Pageant at Planet Hollywood last January, has had myriad official duties in the seven months she has been out on the road almost nonstop. Normally, it involves meeting charity workers, helping underprivileged kids, thanking personnel for their service — and she even had the opportunity to meet President Obama! Serious stuff, indeed, and in most cases raising charity awareness and funds. But until yesterday, the Indiana girl had never had a ... Read more...
LaToya Jackson talks with Barbara Walters about brother Michael’s death
Tomorrow night on ABC’s 20/20, LaToya Jackson, who lives here in Las Vegas, discusses her brother Michael’s June 25 death in a revealing interview with 20/20 anchor and The View host Barbara Walters. In the emotional and extraordinarily candid interview, LaToya is brought to tears remembering the day Michael died in Los Angeles. She says that Michael was full of joy, happy and laughing in the days before his death and working hard on the This Is It shows scheduled ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Whispers about Zowie Bowie, Andrew Dice Clay, Teller
I’m hearing that Strip stars are lining up to join Zowie Bowie’s “Vintage Vegas” big band premiere at the Monte Carlo, with Motley Crue rocker Vince Neill wanting to sing the Sinatra classic “Fly Me to the Moon,” while ventriloquist Terry Fator will sing another classic lounge song. … I’m hearing that comedian Andrew Dice Clay had such a great two-week run of shows at the Riviera, negotiations are continuing to make him a resident. … I’m hearing that Teller, ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Miss America’s busy day includes stops at three charities
It was one very busy day for Miss America 2009 Katie Stam on her trip to Las Vegas yesterday. Katie visited The Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada, read to students at Warren Empowerment School and unpacked donated food for our Three Square food bank for other charities. Katie even remembered to check the expiration dates! Leading lens lady Denise Truscello was along for all the charity stops and captured this unique photo gallery of one jam-packed day in ... Read more...
Miss World contestant catches Leonardo DiCaprio’s attention
The newest supermodel to land in Las Vegas is 2008 Miss Indiana USA beauty Brittany Mason, and the stunning 6-foot blonde already caught the eye of superstar Leonardo DiCaprio when they met at the Bank in the Bellagio. Earlier, Leonardo had hit Tao restaurant and nightclub in The Venetian, but it wasn’t until he met Brittany at the Bank that he decided to stay put instead of crawling the Strip. Brittany will represent the U.S. in the Miss World Pageant, ... Read more...
Whitney Houston in Las Vegas: Two-year deal or a few concert dates?
Rumors were rampant yesterday that superstar comeback singer Whitney Houston was on the verge of signing a two-year deal at a Strip hotel, while I’ve reliably heard that her eventual Las Vegas visit will consist of only several back-to-back concert dates as part of a nationwide boutique tour this coming holiday season. Whatever it turns out to be, congratulations are in order for George Maloof’s recording studio at the Palms. His state-of-the-art facility is where Whitney recorded her latest No. ... Read more...
MTV’s VMAs to feature Janet Jackson and This Is It trailer
Not only will Janet Jackson open this weekend’s live MTV Video Music Awards with a song and dance tribute to late brother Michael, but I’m reliably told that we also will get the first sneak peek at the new film This Is It being released on Oct. 28. It will be the very first look anywhere at the trailer culled from some 100 hours of behind-the-scenes footage while the King of Pop was prepping for his 50-concert London run at ... Read more...
Audigier shelling out $100,000 a month for Jackson mansion
Ed Hardy fashion king Christian Audigier, who owns the Club A project, aka Christian Audigier the Nightclub, at Treasure Island in partnership with Pure Management Group, will take over Michael Jackson’s rented estate in Los Angeles. The late King of Pop’s lease expires Dec. 15, and Christian says he will move in then and assume the $100,000-a-month rental! The sprawling Holmby Hills, Calif., mansion is where the superstar died June 25, and Christian’s associate Michele Elyzabeth says the clothing mogul ... Read more...
Jackson glove bought by HRH for $50,000 to go on display by Christmas
The famous bejeweled white glove that Michael Jackson wore to his 1996 wedding to nurse Debbie Rowe has been snapped up at auction by our Hard Rock Hotel, and its museum curator Warwick Stone, who had the winning $50,000 bid, tells me it will be on display here by Christmas. Warwick told me, “I’m feeling proud as punch that we acquired it. I’d set a $50,000 target, but the adrenaline kicked in so much, I would have gone to $60,000. ... Read more...
Superstar deejays and celebs party and play at Palms’ Fabulous Fest
More than 20 superstar deejays took charge of the four-day Fabulous Fest at the Palms in one of the largest all-star lineups of the world’s top music connoisseurs ever assembled in Las Vegas — and celebrities turned out in full force! It all kicked off poolside at the Palms Pool & Bungalows with Steve Aoki and DJ Scotty Boy. The party continued later at Rain with DJ Jazzy Jeff, who was preceded by DJ R.O.B.’s opening set. Back at the ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Mariah Carey arrives at the Palms for rehearsals
Superstar singer Mariah Carey has arrived at the Palms and begun her rehearsals at The Pearl Concert Theater to prepare for her limited-engagement run, which begins this Friday. This is the first time Mariah has played such an intimate venue, and fans are abuzz about the show. Mariah will perform her limited run this Friday and Saturday. She will return in a month’s time for two additional concerts Oct. 9 and 10. Our leading lady of the lens Denise Truscello ... Read more...
Beatlemania: Music re-release, Rock Band, Love at The Mirage
The story that begins today actually started nearly 50 years ago — yes, it’s taken that long and is now possible thanks to modern technology! Back in the 1960s, when John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr recorded their Beatles hits, recording mastermind George Martin worked with regular tape spools and had to edit using a razor blade and sticky tape! For Cirque du Soleil’s Beatles Love at The Mirage, George and son Giles converted every audiotape ever ... Read more...
First look at movie poster for Michael Jackson’s This Is It
In less than 20 days, tickets will go on sale for the special limited engagement of the Michael Jackson movie This Is It. The film’s official poster was released this morning. The on-sale ticket date is Sept. 27 for the worldwide release on Oct. 28. Some theaters here in Las Vegas plan 24-hour screenings, and movie industry insiders predict that if all the tickets sell instantly, Sony will add extra days to the run. That’s the same marketing ploy that ... Read more...
Nominee list for Poker Hall of Fame is down to nine players
The Poker Hall of Fame has narrowed the list of nominees for the 2009 class, and all that remains is for the 15 Hall of Fame members and the 15-member media panel to cast their votes before we know the inductees. Voting gets underway this week. Nine people remain eligible for induction in 2009. The induction ceremony will be part of a Hall of Fame dinner on Nov. 7 at The Rio during the Main Event World Series of Poker ... Read more...
Wynn odds-maker’s latest numbers on Top Chef: Las Vegas contestants
Johnny Avello, Steve Wynn’s director of Race and Sports Operations, has posted the newest odds for Top Chef: Las Vegas for the fourth week airing tonight on Bravo. It is now down to 14 contestants from the original 17 chefs. Here are the chefs, followed by their starting and current odds: Michael Voltaggio, 11/1, 3/1; Jennifer Carroll, 20/1, 4/1; Kevin Gillespie, 8/1, 5/1; Eli Kirshtein, 22/1, 8/1; Bryan Voltaggio, 15/1, 10/1; Hector Santiago, 18/1, 15/1; Ash Fulk, 35/1, 20/1; Robin ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Bob Weir performs with RatDog at House of Blues
Grateful Dead frontman and rhythm guitarist Bob Weir has just wound up a reunion with fellow members on a Dead tour, but, as his fans know, he’s now back on the road with his own band RatDog. Deadheads filled the House of Blues dancing and twirling through two full sets of classic Grateful Dead music and some RatDog originals. Bob kicked it all off with the early Dead song “Viola Lee Blues,” and he used that as interludes in and ... Read more...
Counter Intelligence: Wynn chefs plan cooking series to teach recipes
Hot off the grill! Hotel tycoon Steve Wynn’s chefs from his Wynn and Encore resort casinos have begun a unique 16-week series at our Whole Foods in Town Square featuring their favorite recipes. Donny Osmond is such a foodie that he even showed up for the debut demos and cooking event by SW Steakhouse chef David Walzog. David showed enthusiasts how to achieve the perfect charred steak at home! The kitchen king and queen sessions continue next Tuesday at 6 ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Sarah Larson’s new life post-George Clooney
For a year, Palms cocktail waitress and model Sarah Larson was linked to superstar George Clooney in a globetrotting love match. They were seen together in New York and Europe after they’d met at the Palms CineVegas premiere of Ocean’s Thirteen. Insiders bet she’d be the one girl to get him to the altar, and the rumors picked up intensity when she moved from hometown Vegas to a new residence in Los Angeles for him. But like all of the ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Tori, Dean and Regina soak up the sun
The official final summer weekend of 2009 attracted numerous celebrities to Las Vegas, and, as a result, I’m betting that the hills of Hollywood and the mountains in Malibu were pretty empty. Our contributing photographers were kept hopping all over town as the stars showed up to play and party. Celebrity couple Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott of Oxygen’s Home Sweet Hollywood played hosts at Azure pool in the Palazzo. Among the other TV personalities joining their fun in the ... Read more...
Friends and family gather in Hollywood to celebrate DJ AM’s life
The life of Adam Goldstein was given a final send-off by close friends and family at Hollywood’s Palladium on Thursday evening ahead of the Labor Day holiday weekend. The Palladium is the very venue that he spun at for its opening last October not long after his tragic Lear jet crash in South Carolina. As expected, the event, which was staged by Hollywood nightlife king Brent Bolthouse, attracted celebrities including Lindsay Lohan, Samantha Ronson, Rebecca Gayheart, Eric Dane, Robert Downey ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Rihanna continues her R&R with T-Pain, Fabolous
Superstar singer Rihanna spent a lot of time in the company of rappers Fabolous and T-Pain on her runaway R&R Las Vegas vacation. Her escape from the L.A. headlines of former beau Chris Brown began at Wet Republic in MGM Grand. Click HERE for our earlier story of Rihanna’s secret visit. The Barbados beauty was last seen at Wet Republic over the Fourth of July weekend with Jay-Z, and she returned for another major holiday celebration. The gorgeous songstress arrived ... Read more...
The Mirage plans superstar Oct. 2 concert to celebrate 20th anniversary
The Mirage executives organizing the 20th anniversary celebrations of the casino resort promise that their Oct. 2 concert will make Las Vegas history. They say it will be the largest gathering of major rock stars in one place at one time. Kiefer Sutherland of Fox’s 24 will host the celebration and debut his rock band. Kiefer owns the recording studio and music label Ironworks with business partner Jude Cole. Acts who have already signed on for The Mirage concert and ... Read more...
Jerry Lewis raises $60 million, ends telethon with ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’
Every year for 44 years, Jerry Lewis has always beaten the previous year’s Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon total of donations and pledges. Due to the troubled economy this year, it was the first time he failed to achieve his target of always “raising just $1 more.” However, he did top $60 million, and that is an extraordinary and incredible achievement, with unemployment hovering at 10 percent and ever-increasing home foreclosures. Jerry is seen here singing “You’ll Never Walk ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Stars turn out in full force for MDA Telethon
It was a highly emotional moment for Jerry Lewis when he watched the video tribute to his late co-host Ed McMahon during the first hour of the 44th Annual Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon now being broadcast live until late this afternoon from the South Point. Jerry simply broke down and cried! Click HERE for our story posted on Friday for all the background of the annual telethon and a photo gallery. Our contributing photographer Scott Harrison was on ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Exclusive! Holly Madison extends Peepshow contract
Days before it becomes official, I can reliably confirm the long-reported rumors here at Vegas DeLuxe that blonde bombshell Holly Madison has signed a new contract to extend her run in Peepshow at Planet Hollywood. The former Playboy princess and star of The Girls Next Door becomes the first Peepshow personality to go beyond the planned, 90-day, revolving, celebrity guest appearance formula that BASE Entertainment producers and Peepshow creator, director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell had structured. Holly’s new contract goes ... Read more...
Rihanna arrives for a little R&R at Hard Rock Hotel and Wet Republic
Headlines in recent months have been all about the tangled, tumultuous and torn romance between superstar singers Rihanna and ex-boyfriend Chris Brown. It all intensified last week after a judge handed down a sentence of five years’ probation and six months of community labor as a result of the horrifying beating that Chris inflicted on Rihanna in February. Court documents showed that there had been two previous incidents of violence and fighting between the couple while they were dating. Rihanna ... Read more...
Laura Croft has a new boyfriend, and his name is …
From Robin Leach’s Twitter in the past few hours (edited for spelling, style and punctuation, but not content!): I can positively tell you all that Holly Madison’s best GF lovely Laura Croft is not dating Criss Angel. I now know the I.D. of her new BF. In fact, Laura has been seen around town four times the past seven days with him since he returned to single status as one of Las Vegas’ most eligible bachelors. Laura has tweeted “he’s ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Matt Goss fans travel from overseas for Palms premiere
Put Matt Goss in a white tuxedo jacket, and you’d swear a real-life James Bond had walked into the casino. No wonder the British singer’s fans were swooning when the curtain went up on his premiere show at the Palms. Some audience members had flown in from as far away as England and other parts of Europe, and when I used Twitter during the show, I suddenly had more than 40 followers from London asking me for live song-by-song reports ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Megan Hauserman parties at The Playground
Reality TV knockout Megan Hauserman kicked off her Labor Day weekend partying in Las Vegas at the just-opened adult entertainment complex The Playground. The blonde bombshell from the recently yanked Megan Wants a Millionaire on VH1 also has starred in I Love Money, Charm School and Rock of Love, and she was the winner of Beauty and the Geek. Megan wore a light blue, strapless mini-dress for her first appearance back here since the launch of Millionaire, and her best ... Read more...
Santana resumes residency at The Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel
Guitar guru Carlos Santana and his brilliant band resumed their residency at the Hard Rock Hotel to kick off Labor Day weekend, and yet again, the legendary music-maker played his heart and soul out at full pace. Our leading lens lady Denise Truscello was front and center in The Joint to capture Santana’s platinum performance. The Hard Rock contract stipulates that the only venue west of the Mississippi for fans to see Santana at full throttle in concert for the ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Matt Goss Live From Las Vegas debuts at Palms
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Matt Goss Live From Las Vegas premiered last night in The Gossy Room, formerly known as The Lounge, in the Palms, and Palms owner George Maloof, Mr. Vegas DeLuxe Robin Leach and our leading lens lady Denise Truscello were part of the capacity crowd, with Denise capturing these sizzling hot photos of sexy Matt and his equally sexy Dirty Virgins onstage. Robin is taking a deserved break this Labor Day weekend, but I didn’t ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: The Royal Robin Rundown Labor Day special edition
Priceless jewelry and watches go on display for media types today for the first Bonhams & Butterfields auction at The Venetian this month and early October. Standing tall above the baubles, however, will be a fully constructed 66 million-year-old Tyrannosaurus skeleton that’s already been nicknamed Samson by the auctioneers. The skeleton, one of the three most complete specimens to have been discovered, also will be up for auction and is expected to go for million$. The 400 pieces of jewelry ... Read more...
Pussycat Dolls founder’s Matt Goss, Dirty Virgins ready for Palms
Pussycat Dolls creator and choreographer Robin Antin and her British pop singing star Matt Goss partner tonight for the premiere of their new show Matt Goss Live From Las Vegas, which they hope will bring back the glory days of old-time Las Vegas when the Rat Pack ruled supreme. Not only does Matt have the chiseled and handsome looks of a James Bond or Jason Statham character, he’s also got the lingerie-clad Dirty Virgins as the power weapon in their ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Jerry Lewis lines up stars to surpass $65 million
Comedy legend and Las Vegas hometown hero Jerry Lewis is now just days away from the 44th Annual Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon, and Jerry’s convinced that even in these difficult economic times, supporters across the country will still help Jerry’s kids and break last year’s record $65 million effort. A host of stars has been lined up for the Sunday and Monday live broadcast from South Point, with a special video homage to Jerry’s late co-host Ed McMahon. Ed was ... Read more...
Maxim hotties brighten our Labor Day weekend coverage
This Labor Day weekend, it’s going to be all about enjoying the last days of summer, and for Las Vegas visitors, that means bikini beauties on parade at our resort pools, and then stunning sexy dress-ups for the nightclub parties that keep it a four-day nonstop weekend whirl! Nobody does it better than Las Vegas — not even 007 — and our hometown hero, motocross legend and stunt driver Carey Hart, who has reconciled with estranged wife recording artist Pink, ... Read more...
Stone Temple Pilots’ Scott Weiland airs English Laundry at MAGIC
The hippest fashion boutique in town has to be the brand new Varvatos Bowery boutique at the Hard Rock Hotel. Among the clothing racks and display cases, you’ll find a raised stage with drum set and a nearby painted-over piano! Rock stars have already discovered the instruments, having stopped shopping sprees to start playing impromptu sets. Other customers come to a complete halt and get a free and very up-close impromptu music set. I took a tour of the store, ... Read more...
Holly Madison: Playboy star, DWTS contestant … and baseball pitcher
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor Does it get any more American in Las Vegas than apple pie, Las Vegas 51s baseball and … Holly Madison? Planet Hollywood’s popular Peepshow star threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Las Vegas 51s game last night, and Brian Jones of the Las Vegas News Bureau was on the field to catch the action. The blond bombshell also took a swing for the cameras before the game before departing for curtain call ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Longtime friends Air Supply sign with new Las Vegas label
Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock, who make up the hit-making duo Air Supply, are still going strong after 33 years of touring with their popular soft rock sounds. They’ve just completed touring Australia, Asia and Central America and arrived here yesterday for four nights of concerts at The Orleans. Graham and Russell also have signed with the new record label Odds On headquartered here in Las Vegas, and their new single “Singer and the Song” will be released Sept. 15. ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles Photo Galleries: Kenny, MAGIC, Paul Oakenfold
Renowned British DJ Paul Oakenfold celebrates his first anniversary as the resident DJ of Perfecto, the Saturday night party at Rain in the Palms, this Labor Day weekend. DJ Jazzy Jeff will take the late DJ AM’s Friday night spot tomorrow night, with later Friday night gigs by deejays Ruckus, Adam 12 and Homicide until the N9NE Group announces Adam Goldstein’s replacement, which is expected next month. *Quite a reunion between fork-tongued comic Don Rickles and hometown magician Steve Dacri ... Read more...
Counter Intelligence: Emeril and B.B. King’s new restaurants
Hot off the grill! Superstar chef Emeril Lagasse really kicks it up a notch today when the self-confessed uber-sports fan opens his Lagasse’s Stadium at the Palazzo. It’s the ultimate sports place to dine, play and watch every game imaginable. Emeril has ensured that sports fans will be in the center of the action with stadium sofa seating and more than 100 HDTVs. There’s everything from patio dining to luxury boxes and betting stations in this new state-of-the-art venue that ... Read more...
Penn & Teller, Holly Madison, George Wallace support HRC
More than 500 people attended the Human Rights Campaign’s “Speak the Truth” gala dinner at the Versailles Ballroom in the Paris, and Strip stars turned up to support the fight for equality. The Rio headliner magicians Penn & Teller led a parade of stars, including Holly Madison and Josh Strickland of Peepshow, Paris headliner hypnotist Anthony Cools, Flamingo comedy headliner George Wallace, cast members from Jubilee! at Bally’s and Le Reve at the Wynn and Ugly Betty actor Alec Mapa. ... Read more...
Vegas cover girl Michelle Monaghan goes to truck driving school
In advance of tomorrow’s release of the new Vegas magazine — our sister publication — I wanted you to meet cover girl Michelle Monaghan. If Michelle is familiar to you, it’s because the actress has already appeared on the big screen opposite heartthrobs Tom Cruise, Patrick Dempsey, Shia LaBeouf and Casey Affleck, while Michelle’s new film Trucker will be released shortly. Michelle morphed from a girlie girl into a daredevil for her new role in Trucker. The brunette beauty tells ... Read more...
Las Vegas residents set to attend Michael Jackson burial today
Michael Jackson’s sister LaToya and his estranged father Joe Jackson, who both live here in Las Vegas, will be at Forest Lawn in Glendale, Calif., for this early evening’s burial of the King of Pop, a little more than two months after his June 25 death. Gladys Knight, who also lives here, and Aretha Franklin will sing at the 7 p.m. internment service, and another Vegas resident, Smokey Robinson, might also attend. Yesterday was a heartbreaking day for the family ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Rumors intensify of Whitney Houston concerts in town
Buzz intensifies after Whitney Houston’s taped Central Park concert in New York for ABC’s Good Morning America yesterday that her upcoming, exclusive mini tour — still to be announced — to support her new CD will include holiday concerts here. Her career comeback, after rehab and a horrid marriage and divorce to Bobby Brown, around the launch of her new album I Look to You is exactly as Vegas DeLuxe predicted several months ago with the simultaneous Sept. 1 day ... Read more...
Joe Jackson wants ‘justice served,’ everyone to pay in Michael’s death
King of Pop Michael Jackson is due to finally be laid to rest tomorrow in a private burial ceremony at Holly Terrace in the Great Mausoleum at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, Calif. Michael died on June 25, and yesterday his death certificate was changed to read “homicide” after last week’s official coroner’s report stating he’d been asphyxiated as a result of prescription drugs. It also reflects the continuing investigations by Los Angeles Police Department detectives and the California ... Read more...
CityCenter: Union Restaurant, Deuce Lounge, Haze Nightclub, Liquid Pool
We have more information about the nightlife venues that The Light Group plans for MGM’s CityCenter opening Dec. 16 that we first revealed two days ago. The nationwide TV campaign to imprint CityCenter on viewers across the country will start in October, and MGM’s head honcho Jim Mullen says he will call it a success if CityCenter grows the overall tourist market here by 5 percent! Light Group executive chef Brian Massie will mastermind Union Restaurant & Lounge, serving a ... Read more...
On television tonight: Criss Angel’s Mindfreak and Top Chef: Las Vegas
Two incredible feats take place on TV tonight featuring Las Vegas and our stars. Luxor headliner and Believe star Criss Angel will once again attempt the impossible on his A&E series Mindfreak by leaping from the top of the Luxor to the ground faster than a falling object he’ll drop — and then catch! Then on Bravo’s Top Chef: Las Vegas, the remaining contestants will fly high with our U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds out at Nellis Air Force Base here. ... Read more...
2009 Restaurant Week: A double date with Alain Ducasse and Rick Moonen
By Don Chareunsy, Vegas DeLuxe editor OK, so it wasn’t so much a double date with Alain Ducasse and Rick Moonen, two respected star chefs, as it was something possibly even more unbelievable: I dined at not one but two restaurants for dinner for Las Vegas’ 3rd Annual Restaurant Week last night. It wasn’t planned, I swear. After finishing up at Alain Ducasse’s Mix in Mandalay Bay, neither my dining companion Jude nor I were full, so he suggested going ... Read more...
Jerry Springer to host America’s Got Talent at Planet Hollywood in October
Confirming my Aug. 13 story — click HERE for that Strip Scribbles report — talk show host Jerry Springer is set to host NBC’s America’s Got Talent in a live 10-week run at Planet Hollywood beginning next month. Jerry hosted the top-rated Seasons 2 and 3 of the show but left to star in the Broadway and London productions of Chicago. His last performance in New York will be on Sunday. There was a previous one-night-only live production of AGT ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Los Angeles Angels vs. the Detroit Tigers
Hundreds of sports fans made the trek across the desert from Las Vegas to Southern California for the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Angels game as the MLB season heads into its final month. Among them was our contributing photographer Tom Donoghue, who 35 years ago was the team photographer for the Tigers. Here, just because everybody loves the summertime sport, is a photo gallery of what Tom captured through the lens of his Nikon. His cast of characters includes ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: AnnaLynne and Angel McCord sizzle in sexy swimsuits
With the Las Vegas heat at a sizzling 110 degrees, Wet Republic at MGM Grand got even hotter when hot Hollywood star AnnaLynne McCord arrived with her sister Angel. The sexy 90210 actress simply wowed on the red carpet crowd in a hot pink monokini with gold embellishments. The blonde bombshell struck her signature poses, blew kisses and flipped her wild mane of curls. AnnaLynne’s sister was in a turquoise bikini, and the two of them had no qualms flashing ... Read more...
Playboy Satellite Radio comes to town for Playmate casting photo shoot
It was a sexy reunion for me with gorgeous and sassy Playboy Playmate Andrea Lowell. Andrea and I worked on the reality TV series Fame Games that I hosted, and now we were across the table from each other live on Playboy Satellite Radio. Andrea was here with her co-host, comedian Kevin Klein, at the Palms, and in addition to my rundown of everything hot and happening in Las Vegas, they tricked me into a Tramp Stamp contest! I had ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Donny Osmond begins Dancing With the Stars work
Odds-makers are already tipping Flamingo headliner Donny Osmond to win the new season of Dancing With the Stars. His pro partner is Kym Johnson, who is returning for her seventh season. Today, Vegas DeLuxe has the first photos here of Donny and Kym working out at their grueling six-hour daily practice sessions. Donny will commute back and forth from Las Vegas to Los Angeles so as not to interrupt his nightly shows with sister Marie Osmond at the Flamingo — ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Paris Hilton, Doug Reinhardt, rockers dine at Rare 120
Paris Hilton’s honeymoon celebration after her wild weekend “mock marriage” didn’t last five minutes. No sooner had the cameras finished rolling for the British TV special segment she’d filmed at the Little Church of the West wedding chapel than she went back to the Hard Rock Hotel with boyfriend Doug Reinhardt for an intimate romantic dinner a deux at Rare 120. Paris and Doug continued on to Body English, where Sugar Ray frontman Mark McGrath was partying. It was a ... Read more...
Human Nature release first U.S. album; Smokey reflects on 50 years
Australia’s popular and successful vocal group Human Nature, who now star nightly at the Imperial Palace Showroom on the Strip, celebrate the release of their first U.S. album today. Reach Out is being released sold at Barnes & Noble, but it’s also available via download. It will drop globally via retail in February. The group originally signed with Sony in 1994 and has earned 23 platinum awards in their native Australia, with their largest audience at the Sydney Olympic Games ... Read more...
Steve Wynn’s star chefs pay tribute to Julia Child during Restaurant Week
Star chefs from Steve Wynn’s casino hotels are paying special tribute to legendary culinary icon Julia Child during Restaurant Week. To honor the TV personality, who is currently portrayed by Oscar winner Meryl Streep in Julie & Julia, they’ve created Julia Child-inspired menu items at their restaurants, where proceeds will be donated to our Three Square food bank. Alex Stratta, chef at the French restaurant Alex and the Italian restaurant Stratta, first met Julia when she visited him at Renoir ... Read more...
Photo Galleries: Jason Priestley, Chad Michael Murray and Amber Rose
Original Beverly Hills 90210 heartthrob Jason Priestley brought 30 of his closest friends and family to Tabu Ultra Lounge at MGM to celebrate his 40th birthday. Wearing a stylish charcoal gray suit, TV’s Brandon Walsh walked the red carpet with stunning wife Naomi Lowde-Priestley, who accentuated her figure in a form-fitting black satin dress. Fans wanting autographs mobbed Jason, and the avid hockey fan graciously obliged, only taking a break to pose with close friends actress Kristy Swanson and actor ... Read more...
Photo Gallery: Tribute artists honor Michael Jackson
In honor of Michael Jackson’s birthday, fans were invited to dance their way into the Hawaiian Tropic Zone at Planet Hollywood’s Miracle Mile Shop. Top Michael Jackson tribute artists in authentic costumes led the crowd through the legendary entertainer’s classics, including “Billie Jean,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Thriller” and “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin.’ ” It was a nonstop night of musical entertainment to honor Michael’s musical legacy on what would have been his 51st birthday this past Saturday. There was a moonwalk ... Read more...
Andre Agassi enlists Tim McGraw, Daughtry and Dane Cook for benefit
Tennis superstar and hometown hero Andre Agassi has announced the most powerful lineup ever of superstars for his 14th annual benefit concert set for Sept. 26 at the Wynn, the benefit’s second consecutive year there. Rockers Daughtry, singer Brian McKnight, comedian Dane Cook and music legend David Foster will join country king Tim McGraw, and Andre says he will add more celebrities by the time the big night arrives later this month. My pal David will serve as musical director ... Read more...
Criss Angel’s mass levitation a success; David Blaine headed to Vegas?
Mindfreak magician Criss Angel scored record ratings and huge audience reaction with his episode “Mass Levitation” on his A&E series. Before the mass levitation, Criss, who stars in the Cirque du Soleil show Believe at the Luxor here, proved his own levitation skills. Criss demonstrated his own levitation more than 500 feet above the Strip and has floated through the spotlight atop the Luxor from one building to another. He’s also shown the levitation skill up close with the public ... Read more...
Crazy Horse III halts Crazy Horse Too name; rival club opening anyway
Mike Galam's effort to resurrect the name Crazy Horse Too was thwarted today by a judge in Las Vegas. He was going to call the gentlemen's club ...
Preview: Light, Daylight and Eclipse at Mandalay Bay are ready to rumble
If you’re going to challenge Hakkasan Las Vegas, the new kid on the block, you’d better be bigger and better. It looks as if rival The Light Group has ...
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