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Luxe Life Blog • Archive for December 2011
Photos: Alistair Overeem celebrates UFC 141 victory at Surrender
It was a night of celebration for new UFC heavyweight champion Alistair Overeem after his first-round TKO over the giant Brock Lesnar at UFC 141 on Friday night at MGM Grand Garden Arena. The behemoth Brock promptly announced his retirement after the 500-pound-plus showdown. Celebrities turned out in force for the eve of New Year’s Eve battle between the two bruisers. The crowd included Joe Jonas, Josh Duhamel, Wilmer Valderrama, Mark Ballas, Lil Jon, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino, Gina Carano ... Read more...
Photos: DJ Pauly D, Axl Rose, Guns ’n’ Roses under Hard Rock Hotel roof
If honors were to be handed out for best attraction on the eve of New Year’s Eve, it’s likely that the Hard Rock Hotel would take top honors. Contributing photographers Tom Donoghue, Erik Kabik and Scott Harrison turned up as the terrific trio to cover all the excitement, and our thanks to the lens men. First, and obviously, the return of Axl Rose and his Guns ’n’ Roses to the Joint took center-stage spotlight. But “Jersey Shore” star DJ Pauly ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Brock Lesnar, Alistair Overeem weigh in for UFC 141
Behemoth Brock Lesnar wouldn’t do any interviews at Thursday’s UFC 141 weigh-in and left it to rival Alistair Overeem. Videographer Richard Corey was on duty and reports that UFC lightweight Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone agreed to let rival Nate “Street Fighter” Diaz fight even though Nick weighed in 1 pound over the 157-pound limit. UFC ring girl Brittney Palmer, who was a former assistant to Flamingo magician headliner Nathan Burton, ahem, revealed that she will be the March 2012 Playboy as ... Read more...
Photos: Wynn celebrates 3,000th performance of ‘Le Reve — the Dream’
Each night the curtain goes up on the ambitious water spectacle “Le Reve — the Dream” at Steve Wynn’s hotel the Wynn, more than 1,001 things could go wrong. Incredibly, nothing rarely does. Even with thousands of electrical parts possibly working loose or water hoses wearing out, the technicians have lost only five shows since the April 2005 opening night as they hit the 3,000th mark this weekend. Incredibly, although it’s more than five times as difficult in water and ... Read more...
Photos: Intimacy and sophistication at new nightspots Hyde and RPM
The era is ending for supersized Las Vegas nightclubs, as intimacy and sophistication are the new buzzwords for 2012. On Thursday, I took preview tours of the new, luxurious jewel box lounge and nightspot Hyde in the Bellagio and RPM at the Tropicana. HYDE AT BELLAGIO It took 5 months and more than $10 million to convert the 10-year-old oval piano lounge Fontana into the new, 10,000-square-foot, square-shaped venue that’s the fifth Hyde in the country but the first in ... Read more...
Photos: Jackie Evancho shines with David Foster at Mandalay Bay
Pint-sized 11-year-old Jackie Evancho won numerous standing ovations for her magical and memorable performance with hit-maker David Foster at their Mandalay Bay concert Thursday night. Contributing photographer Tom Donoghue was given special up-close rehearsal and performance access exclusively for our incredible Vegas DeLuxe photo galleries. The tiny, one-time “America’s Got Talent” contestant simply mesmerized the audience who sat silently as she worked her way through an hour of classics and pop-opera winners. Then they exploded each time she finished, jumping ... Read more...
Celebrity preview: NYE star parties, concerts, fireworks, new nightclubs
It’s going to be a bonanza New Year’s Eve weekend for Las Vegas, and not only because of the incredible superstar parties and the monstrous fireworks that will explode over the Strip and downtown. It’s in the stunning numbers, too. As many as 320,00 visitors filling nearly every hotel and motel room on and off the Strip are expected, and that translates into a whopping $200 million in nongaming purchases. The superstar parties are larger than ever, with three nightclubs ... Read more...
Photos: Paris Hilton parties to DJ Afrojack’s set at Surrender in Encore
Paris Hilton was back in good graces at Steve Wynn’s properties early Thursday morning partying at Surrender Nightclub in Encore with Grammy Award-winning DJ and producer Afrojack (real name Nick Van de Wall), who performed a set at the nightclub. Paris and the Dutch-born Afrojack have been spotted around the globe since the summer. They arrived at 12:45 a.m., and the blonde bombshell was all smiles and stayed within arm’s reach from him in the DJ booth while he spun ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Jackie Evancho, David Foster, Cee-Lo Green, UFC, Joan Rivers
Singer Cee-Lo Green has confirmed our earlier reports of a “Loberace” Strip show inspired by the late flamboyant pianist and Las Vegas showman Liberace and has now revealed that it will be at Planet Hollywood. Insiders tell me it will be a mini-residency of select runs of “Loberace” at the Theater for Performing Arts in Planet Hollywood’s Miracle Mile this spring. Cee-Lo says he was inspired by Las Vegas locations when he helped open Gallery Nightclub in Planet Hollywood, as ... Read more...
Vanessa Williams is saving the best (of 2011) for last at the Riviera
Since her history-making 1984 win as Miss America, glamorous Vanessa Williams has followed her dream as a chart-topping singer, and she’ll headline her New Year’s Eve songfest at the Riviera on Saturday just before the magic midnight hour. “We’re putting on a spectacular show, and right after I plan to enjoy the fireworks on the Strip surrounded by family and friends and my wonderful band members,” Vanessa told me. “I’m just happy to have all my kids at home this ... Read more...
Exclusive: Celine Dion talks twins’ first steps, sleeplessness, resolutions
Superstar Celine Dion and her manager husband Rene Angelil confirmed to Vegas DeLuxe in an exclusive interview that negotiations are under way for their Caesars Palace contract to be extended. “We are in talks,” Rene said. “It’s not finalized yet, but soon. We love it here in Vegas. “Celine does here what she loves to do. She loves the Colosseum. It has the best conditions for a performer. We couldn’t ask for better. We are close to lots of people ... Read more...
Photos: Contributing photographer Erik Kabik’s year in A&E images
By Don Chareunsy One of my least favorite tasks in journalism is having to trim a colleague’s work, whether it’s a wonderful story that has to be cut for space, or, in this instance, a photo gallery that needs to be sliced and diced for editorial purposes. Erik Kabik has been one of Vegas DeLuxe’s most prolific and hardest-working contributing photojournalists this year, and he submitted 51 beautiful images that were painstakingly trimmed to 30 for this year-in-review photo gallery. ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: MGM lions’ final roar is familiar news to VDLX readers
All the headlines today about MGM Grand’s decision to close its Lion Habitat were old news to Vegas DeLuxe readers. We broke the exclusive Sept. 13 and wrote about it again last month. Now MGM officials have confirmed our two earlier reports, but it made news elsewhere when they released it officially today. Nearly 4 months ago, I reported that as part of the major transformation continuing at MGM Grand that Studio 54 will close and be made over into ... Read more...
Paris Hilton parties with twin brother of ex-boyfriend at Palms
Gossips around the world will have a field day with this news! Celebrity business mogul Paris Hilton is back in Las Vegas and was spotted early Wednesday at Moon in the Palms, where she was partying in a group of six that included nightclub mogul Jesse Waits and Grammy Award-winning record producer and DJ Afrojack, who is believed to be producing Paris’ next album. What’s intriguing about this group is that Paris for a year dated Jesse’s twin brother Cy ... Read more...
Celine Dion returns to Caesars Palace hit run; ‘Immortal’ hits the road
Superstar singer Celine Dion arrived back on the Strip on Tuesday to reclaim her title as Las Vegas box office champion just as Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson: the Immortal World Tour” cast and crew relinquished their reign and hit the road for Phoenix. Celine starts a run tonight through Aug. 19, skipping only April and May. When Celine wrapped her previous run at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, she went out on top in August with 54 consecutive sold-out ... Read more...
Photos: Steve Wynn’s ‘Le Reve’ to celebrate 3,000th performance
Just seven shows remain until the cast and crew of the Steve Wynn aquatic spectacular “Le Reve” hits the monumental 3,000th-show milestone. Tonight, I’ll watch show No. 2,993 for a behind-the-scenes tour and report on all the new changes in advance of Sunday’s celebration. It was April 28, 2005, that “Le Reve: The Dream” opened the same night that Steve threw open the doors to his casino resort. More than 250 cast and crew work daily on the powerful performances ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Final wishes to come true for Garth Brooks fan in L.V.
When superstar Garth Brooks returns to Encore Theater at the Wynn on Jan. 7, it will be a highly emotional performance. In the audience will be 25-year-old Brandon Regan of Illinois, who is dying from an untreatable brain disease. He is so ill that he can no longer walk or eat and has to rely on feeding tubes and a hospice nursing staff, but he’s determined to see his idol perform and take a night ride on the Strip. The ... Read more...
Sinead O’Connor ends 16-day Las Vegas marriage to Barry Herridge
Just 16 days after an unexpected Dec. 8 Las Vegas wedding, Irish singer-songwriter Sinead O’Connor has ended her fourth marriage, to Barry Herridge, on Christmas Eve, admitting that the marriage lasted only one week. Sinead revealed the news this morning saying she was sorry that they had rushed into the marriage and made a mistake that caused “anguish with his family” and “threatened his work as a child therapist.” Vegas DeLuxe posted a report and a photo gallery of their ... Read more...
Holly Madison and Crystal Harris’ terrier tug-of-war on Twitter
“Peepshow” and “Holly’s World” star Holly Madison got into the middle of a Twitter war of words Monday between former boyfriend Hugh Hefner and his ex-fiancee Crystal Harris over the runaway bride’s demand that she now receive possession of their pet cocker spaniel. When Crystal and Hef split hours before their planned summer wedding, the Playboy mogul kept Charlie, who made the cover photograph, but let Crystal keep a Bentley and a massive engagement ring — she later sold the ... Read more...
Kim Kardashian’s paycheck at Tao on New Year’s Eve: $600,000?!
It was shock and awe when Hollywood sources reported Monday that reality TV star Kim Kardashian will earn $600,000 for hosting her New Year’s Eve party at Tao in the Venetian. Newly single Kim has already told Vegas DeLuxe that she will be solo at the celebration but will be accompanied by mom Kris Jenner and stepfather Bruce Jenner. It’s the second consecutive year that Kim is hosting NYE at Tao. Last year, she reportedly was paid $500,000, but that ... Read more...
Record 300-plus porn actresses set for AVN Adult Entertainment Expo
With more than 300 porn princesses already registered for next month’s AVN Adult Entertainment Expo, organizers of the Jan. 18-21 adults-only events at the Hard Rock Hotel safely predict that it will be an all-time record turnout of tantalizing temptresses — and the list is still growing. “It’s the largest collection of adult stars to attend an event all under one roof at the same time. It will also be one of the biggest expos that’s ever taken place,” said ... Read more...
Counter Intelligence: Fogo de Chao, turkey pot pie, eggnog, Public House
Hot off the grill! The gauchos at the new Fogo de Chao Brazilian steakhouse, or churrascaria, a half-mile off the Strip are keeping busy. They’re hopping from table to table with giant skewers of beef, pork, lamb and chicken, and thanks to a red- or green-sided chip, you can eat until you want no more. Red indicates stop serving, and green means keep going. There are 15 signature spears of meat — from sirloin, filet mignon to ribeye — and ... Read more...
Celebrity preview: Jerry Seinfeld, Rita Rudner, Debbie Reynolds, circus
Our Entertainment Capital of the World empties out this holiday weekend as families travel near and far to celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah. However, we’re a global attraction because in comes a rising sun of Asian entertainers and pop stars to thrill our friends from Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Chicago and here. It’s also a weekend for Persians to play and perform, so we extend a very warm welcome to all of you. Holidays are always special for kids, ... Read more...
Porn princesses prepare for 2012 adult awards at Hard Rock Hotel
Plans are in place for the 29th Annual AVN Awards, the adult industry’s biggest exotic and erotic event Jan. 22 at the Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel. There’s a red carpet preshow and then the star-studded ceremony, where outstanding achievements in the world of adult entertainment are celebrated. Triple-X-rated porn princesses Bree Olson and Sunny Leone (nominated for Crossover Star of the Year) host the night of naughty and nasty taking place for the first time at Hard Rock. ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: KISS Monster Mini Golf and cafe set to open March 15
It’s now official that KISS have set March 15 as the opening date of their KISS Monster Mini Golf in Las Vegas. The gala premiere coincides with the 35th anniversary of the KISS album “Destroyer” that kick-started their careers on March 15, 1976. To mark the dates, the leggy beauties from MGM Grand’s “Crazy Horse Paris” posed seductively in the KISS “Destroyer” boots that have been touring Las Vegas (thanks to photographer Erik Kabik for his photograph) — and even ... Read more...
Photos: Rival marching bands of Boise State and Arizona State face off
The marching bands of rivals Arizona State University and Boise State University are just as competitive as the football stars who will fight for gridiron glory in the Maaco Bowl at Sam Boyd Stadium today at 5 p.m. Contributing photographer Tom Donoghue was on duty Wednesday night at the downtown Fremont Street Experience for this pre-game gallery as the drums and trombones ratcheted up the noise and the colorful cheerleader spectacles. The MAACO Bowl teams of the Boise Broncos and ... Read more...
Shot at stardom with L.V.-based social music network RockCityClub.com
Judging from the thousands of hopefuls who line up across the country for a chance to audition for “X Factor,” “American Idol” and a dozen other similar shows, there’s plenty of music talent waiting to be discovered. While it’s nearly impossible for TV programs to always find the next superstar, undiscovered artists and bands looking to break into entertainment now have another shot thanks to the world’s only social music network headquartered here in Las Vegas. RockCityClub.com provides an opportunity ... Read more...
Photos: Strip’s ‘Best Cocktail Waitresses’ release 2012 calendar
Call them the 12 months of “cocktail cuties” alongside former Mayor Oscar Goodman’s downtown beef, booze and “broads!” With the debut of the 2012 M Girls Calendar, it’s easier to make a date with them — well, at least on their page. M Resorts’ sexy servers have been voted the Strip’s “Best Cocktail Waitresses” in reader polls (yes, the Strip technically extends south to M Resort), and they wanted to remind you of that fact all 12 months in the ... Read more...
Photos: Press conference for ‘Repeat or Revenge: Ortiz vs. Berto II’
The hype has started for what should be the first major Las Vegas fight attraction of 2012. Just 10 months after a spirited slugfest, world champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz and ex-titleholder Andre Berto will battle again Saturday, Feb. 11. at MGM Grand Garden Arena. The eagerly awaited 12-round fight airing live on Showtime is a rematch of a fiercely contested, multiple-knockdown affair last April that Victor won by a unanimous decision in capturing Andre’s World Boxing Council title. Both fighters ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Pre-Maaco Bowl contests; Miss America; Redfoo
All 53 Miss America Pageant contestants, including from Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands and District of Columbia, are getting set for their 2012 competition and Las Vegas arrival only two weeks away. They’ll be welcomed to their Planet Hollywood headquarters with a Jan. 5 ceremony on the Strip and two days later take part in a runway show at Fashion Show. The contestants will be outfitted in new fashions throughout Pageant Week thanks to Express with its more than 600 U.S. ... Read more...
Photos: Nevada Ballet’s ‘Nutcracker’ at the Paris a delightful holiday treat
By Don Chareunsy It’s almost sacrilegious that I have never seen “The Nutcracker” in that 1) I’m an arts and entertainment journalist and 2) I love the holidays — and I mean I love the holidays. The deprivation ended at Nevada Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” at its opening matinee performance at the Paris on Saturday, and a new annual holiday tradition was born. The production, about young Clara and her holiday adventures and joy with her Nutcracker Doll, is a ... Read more...
Photos: Siegfried & Roy reveal Christmas miracle at Magical Forest
It’s beyond magic — it’s a Christmas miracle for Siegfried & Roy. Our beloved hometown magical masters have revealed exclusively to Vegas DeLuxe that they will be celebrating a very big step in Roy’s extraordinary rehabilitation this holiday season. I chatted with the duo Monday night when they toured Opportunity Village’s annual Magical Forest with chief executive Linda Smith before their annual Christmas party for their former magic show colleagues and current conservation project co-workers at the Mirage’s Secret Garden ... Read more...
‘Mystere’ to take 18th anniversary break for tweaks before 2012 restart
As “Mystere” celebrates its 18th anniversary on Christmas Day at Treasure Island, Vegas Deluxe can confirm that the production will go dark for a month starting Jan. 12 for what Cirque du Soleil’s creations director, Gilles Ste. Croix, describes as “a needed tune-up” for the company’s first Strip spectacular. “Mystere” is still playing to capacity crowds after more than 8,500 performances since Dec. 25, 1993, but Cirque founder Guy Laliberte flew here from Japan a week ago and authorized changes. ... Read more...
Vince Neil ponders exit from Motley Crue after Las Vegas shows
Vince Neil says he is seriously contemplating a split from Motley Crue after their run of concerts at the Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel from Feb. 3-19. “It’s not definite, but I am thinking seriously about it,” the Las Vegas resident said. The news that Vince might be calling it quits comes on the heels of his 50th birthday this year, obtaining final divorce papers from his ex-wife Lia this past weekend and a long year of international touring ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Playmate-TV analyst predicts Mayweather-Pacquiao bout
Las Vegas beauty Jessa Hinton, who is a strong contender for 2012 Playboy Playmate of the Year after being featured as Miss July, is predicting that there’ll be a Floyd Mayweather Jr.-Manny Pacquiao fight in 2012. As a Top Rank TV commentator who interviews many of the boxers, Jessa was interviewed this week by NBC Sports. The blonde bombshell who is the model for her own line of Affliction swimwear and a Victory Poker Tour interviewer, was asked if she ... Read more...
Photos: Tropicana unveils sexy iCandy dancers and Glow Spa
When nobody in the sports bar is watching football games or rodeo spills on the TV screens and instead are glued to the buxom blonde and brunette beauties onstage, you know it’s a hit. The new, sexy iCandy Burlesque at the Tropicana with aerial performers, platform and pole dancers and stilt walkers is part of a wild ride that’s begun at the casino resort. The bombshells also turn up behind gaming tables in the blackjack pit. The entertainment is nonstop ... Read more...
1 OAK at the Mirage is 1 Of A Kind and Fergie’s New Year’s Eve hotspot
One of the hottest celebrity nightspots in New York City is about to open on the Strip. In fact, the countdown for 1 OAK is now just 10 days away. Sexy singer Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas will officially open 1 OAK on New Year’s Eve after a marketing campaign proclaiming it’s 1 Of A Kind status. Scott Sartiano, who is a co-owner of the Manhattan celebrity hangout, told me that he’s keeping as much of the intimate vibe ... Read more...
Kim Kardashian talks single life; Kris talks Kourtney; Khloe talks Dallas
It’s a given in celebrity journalism that when you ask difficult questions and receive good answers, everybody is going to grab the juicy quotes and run with them. That’s what happened when I chatted to Kim Kardashian and sister Khloe Kardashian Odom, but, fortunately, nobody was listening when I talked later with matriarch Kris Jenner about Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick. They were here for the official grand opening of their celebrity lifestyle boutique Kardashian Khaos at the Mirage last ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Celine Dion plans changes to Caesars Palace show
Say au revoir to Stevie Wonder and allo bienvenue to Andrea Bocelli. Superstar Celine Dion has decided that there will be new gowns and costumes along with a new virtual hologram duet when she returns to the Colosseum at Caesars Palace next week — Dec. 28. The Canadian singer has decided, at least for now, to replace the Stevie duet with “The Prayer” sung with Andrea. They performed it together on the 1999 Grammy Awards and recently in a PBS ... Read more...
Chris Klodnicki wins $801,680 in third Epic Poker League Main Event
The Top 10 poker players in the world as ranked by the Global Poker Index were at the Palms for the third Epic Poker League Main Event, which ended last night after five days of action-packed tournament play. Philadelphia’s Chris Klodnicki emerged victorious, earning $801,680 and the champion’s ring and increased his career earnings to $2,818, 881. “It was a trip getting through this really tough field,” Chris said. “I enjoyed the Mix-Max format, which caters to top poker players, ... Read more...
Star Surveillance: Andre Agassi, Shane Victorino, ‘Fantasy,’ Thunder
Tennis aces and Las Vegas residents Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf and Keep Memory Alive Foundation founder Larry Ruvo attended a holiday dinner at Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, where Chef Michel Richard of Central at Caesars Palace served the taste treats. Michel dazzled with his Muscovy duck in cinnamon beet sauce and elaborate snowman-shaped vacherins — ice cream-filled meringue sculptures. The event was held for the annual induction ceremony of the Las Vegas Baillage of the ... Read more...
Britney Spears ‘never been happier’; pair ‘couldn’t be better match’
It took two weeks of top-secret planning to pull off Britney Spears’ surprise 40th birthday party in Las Vegas for Jason Trawick. But the pop superstar herself went public about it when he suddenly proposed the night before — and she accepted and slipped on the engagement ring he’d help design. Giddy and in love, the couple was inseparable while staying here at Planet Hollywood in a mega-high-roller suite and posed for official engagement photos on the mezzanine overlooking the ... Read more...
Beach Boys to reunite for 50th anniversary tour beginning in April
For the first time in 46 years, founding Beach Boys member Brian Wilson is reuniting with the group and going out on tour with them to celebrate the band’s 50th anniversary. The 50-date tour starts in April at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and is expected to include a date here in Las Vegas, which founding member Mike Love and touring Beach Boys have played throughout the years. I reported the possible reunion as far back as June ... Read more...
Photos: Tye Strickland, Melissa Rycroft’s anniversary at Venetian
Another hot Hollywood couple was on the Strip this weekend in addition to Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, as Melissa Rycroft and Tye Strickland flew in to join the Winter in Venice festivities at the Venetian to celebrate their second wedding anniversary. “Little did we know that you could have winter fun on the Strip, and Winter in Venice is the perfect time to come. The Venetian is our favorite place to stay in Vegas,” said Melissa, who dressed in ... Read more...
Videos: L.V. kid scores Justin Bieber interview, beats Biebs at dancing
It’s not every day that an 11-year-old shares a headline alongside a pop superstar, but DJ Robbie Q of KYDZ Radio here in Las Vegas has pulled off the near impossible and beaten Justin Bieber at his own game. For the second time this year, the budding radio personality snagged a one-on-one chat with the teen heartthrob singer. The friendship began backstage this summer when Justin had a Las Vegas stop on his nationwide tour and Robbie lost a hair-flip ... Read more...
Photos: ‘Pretty Little Liars’ star Ashley Benson’s 22nd birthday
Hollywood starlet Ashley Benson of “Pretty Little Liars” celebrated her 22nd birthday at Vanity in the Hard Rock Hotel last night, and photographer Erik Kabik was onsite for the glittering gallery of candid photographs. The California blonde, whose credits also include “Eastwick” and “Days of Our Lives,” shares a birthday with another blond actor in Las Vegas this weekend, Brad Pitt, who is celebrating his 48th birthday. Their birthdays are today. Robin Leach has been a journalist for more than ... Read more...
Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and kids attend Michael Jackson Cirque show
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie were the third set of superstar celebrities to make Las Vegas their playground for three days in this final weekend before Christmas: *It began Thursday with the invasion of the Kardashian Klan for the official opening of their celebrity lifestyle boutique Kardashian Khaos at the Mirage. *Pop queen Britney Spears followed on Friday celebrating her engagement to agent Jason Trawick and his 40th birthday at Planet Hollywood and Paris. *Then last night, as I first ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Celine Dion marks 17th wedding anniversary in Utah
Superstar singer Celine Dion celebrates her 17th wedding anniversary today in Utah ski and snow country. Congratulations to Celine and her manager husband Rene Angelil. They exchanged vows near her home in Quebec on Dec. 17, 1994. Son Rene-Charles, 10, and 15-month-old twins Eddy and Nelson are on the ski trip, the family’s first mountaintop run together. Celine says the twins will play in the snow and she will make snow angels and play with the twins in it. “I’ve ... Read more...
Photos: It’s official! Britney Spears and agent Jason Trawick are engaged
By Don Chareunsy Oops! … She did it again! Pop superstar Britney Spears had double reason to celebrate in Las Vegas on Friday night: Her longtime boyfriend, agent Jason Trawick, celebrated the Big 4-0 and, confirming Mr. Vegas DeLuxe Robin Leach’s story on Friday morning, Spears and Trawick are now engaged. Let’s hope that the third time (wedding) is the charm for Spears after marriages to high school sweetheart Jason Alexander (not the “Seinfeld” actor) and Kevin Federline, with whom ... Read more...
Photos: Michelle Branch’s acoustic magic at Winter in Venice at Venetian
Grammy Award-winning artist Michelle Branch celebrated Winter in Venice at the Venetian last night with an acoustic concert to benefit HELP of Southern Nevada. Michelle was rocker chic in a leather jacket and skinny black jeans and opened with her chart topper “Everywhere.” Her set also included “Goodbye to You,” “Leave the Pieces” and the holiday classic “Silent Night.” Michelle provided a sneak peek to her upcoming album and encouraged the crowd to “get a little rowdy and take all ... Read more...
Britney Spears to celebrate engagement in Las Vegas tonight?
Speculation is running rampant this morning from Los Angeles to London that pop princess Britney Spears is on her way to Las Vegas to celebrate the birthday of her manager boyfriend Jason Trawick and that the couple became engaged last night. Her sons Sean Preston and Jayden will reportedly be with them before they party tonight. At 8 this morning, the singer had the following message on her Twitter: “OMG. Last night Jason surprised me with the one gift I’ve ... Read more...
Celebrity preview: Holly, Rick Faugno, Adam Carolla and Clint Holmes
With the excitement of New Year’s Eve weekend rapidly approaching and having not yet recovered from the never-ending November nights, it’s an absolute relief that there’s a lull this weekend and next. In fact, the two quietest weekends of the year for shows, stars and parties are upon us. The crowds and the cowboys have left town. Restaurants and nightclubs have reduced hours for staff annual vacations, and celebrities and DJs are staying home in Hollywood to finish their Christmas ... Read more...
Photos: ‘I still believe in love and marriage,’ Kim Kardashian says
It was a glittering grand opening and red carpet celebration for celebrity lifestyle boutique Kardashian Khaos at the Mirage tonight, and the first family of reality TV was on hand for the celebration: Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Scott Disick, Rob Kardashian, matriarch Kris Jenner, Kendall Jenner and Kyle Jennifer. Thanks to Denise Truscello, Tom Donoghue and Erik Kabik for their photo gallery that also included Mirage President Felix Rappaport and to Richard Corey for posting his videos on ... Read more...
Photos: L.V.’s School of Rock turning students into tomorrow’s rock stars
For now, the six-man rock band is known only as PG-1, and hard on their heels are PG-2 and PG-3, with more PG to follow. They certainly aren’t the initials of Parental Guidance. In fact, it indicates Performance Group 1, 2 and 3. In February, they’ll compete in a 90-minute Rock 101 graduation and then name themselves. Believe it or not, PG-1 may go on to be the next AC/DC or Guns ’N Roses. Welcome to the School of Rock, ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: L.V. entertainment scene alive, well with sellout shows
Celine Dion’s four returning and remaining 2011 shows are sold out — not one ticket can be found for the year-end concerts at the Colosseum in Caesars Palace. That’s all 16,800 seats spoken and accounted for — c’est magnifique! Demand is so strong that people who had already bought their tickets have put them on sale for profit — more than $200 a seat in the second mezzanine and $1,000 in the rear orchestra — via resale ticket Web sites. ... Read more...
Kim, Khloe, Kourtney, Kris, Rob et al take on the Mirage in Las Vegas
Stop the presses! Change the cover! Roll the video! Pull the pics! It’s media madness and mayhem! There’s never been quite a glitzy gathering of the entire Kardashian Klan as the one expected today for the official VIP gala opening of their celebrity lifestyle boutique Kardashian Khaos at the Mirage. It’s the first of what’s expected to become a new nationwide chain. As we reported yesterday, Mirage security has been beefed up ahead of the family’s visit led by proud ... Read more...
Photos: Holly Madison turns ballerina for Nevada Ballet’s ‘Nutcracker’
Platinum blonde “Peepshow” at Planet Hollywood and “Holly’s World” star Holly Madison will be a guest ballerina this Saturday in Nevada Ballet Theater’s holiday production of “The Nutcracker.” Photographer Denise Truscello was with Holly on Tuesday when she was fitted in a custom-made pink tutu and pointe shoes at the ballet company’s Las Vegas studios. After her costume fitting, Holly posed for photographs with the ballet dancers and received a sneak peek at rehearsals. Nevada Ballet Theater performs the holiday ... Read more...
Annie Duke says debut year of Epic Poker League is a major success
Today’s first Lifetime Card presentation to poker icon Doyle Brunson by the new Epic Poker League marks the halfway point of its debut year for the sport’s elite players. Co-founder Annie Duke says the EPL — akin to the PGA Tour — has been a bigger success than she ever imagined. Today also marks the start of its third Main Event at the Palms and follows last month’s broadcast on CBS where viewers could win a trip here and $1 ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Security beefed up ahead of Kardashian Khaos opening
Huge crowds are expected for the Kardashian invasion at the Mirage tomorrow when the clan attends the red-carpet grand opening of their lifestyle boutique Kardashian Khaos. With Kim Kardashian making her first real public appearance since splitting with Kris Humphries and Kourtney, Khloe, Kendall, Kylie and matriarch Kris Jenner confirmed to attend, the hotel is beefing up security to deal with fans — and an army of paparazzi, photographers and media. Kim, who has flown in from Haiti where she ... Read more...
Star Surveillance: Jesse Metcalfe’s birthday, Cooper Hefner, Paula Abdul
Actor Jesse Metcalfe took a break from filming the TV series remake of “Dallas” to celebrate his 33rd birthday at Vanity in the Hard Rock Hotel with actress girlfriend Cara Santana. The “Desperate Housewives” and “John Tucker Must Die” heartthrob celebrated with friends and a crowd of well-wishers who sang “Happy Birthday” as he high-fived and shook hands with them. The sexy nightclub servers presented Jesse with a custom motorcycle birthday cake, which the couple shared in between their nightlong ... Read more...
New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas: Stars galore, ‘America’s Party’ fireworks
It’s taken a year of planning, and — thanks to vocals from Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez and ZZ Top — this year’s “America’s Party” on New Year’s Eve will be an all-time spectacular with more than 56,400 pyrotechnic effects making it one of the biggest fireworks displays in the country. City and Clark County officials are estimating that 315,000 visitors will be here to watch the sky over the Strip light up at midnight. Hometown singer Ne-Yo is included on ... Read more...
Photos: Laura Croft + Thunder hunk Clint Scott; Holly Madison + Skrillex?
For the first time, “Holly’s World” star Laura Croft has talked candidly about her blossoming romance with Australian hunk Clint Scott, who stars in Thunder From Down Under at the Excalibur where she runs her nearby “Night School 4 Girls” party/dance classes. “It’s definitely serious,” Laura told me candidly. “We’re exclusive with each other, and he makes me feel like a princess.” The couple has been dating seriously since September when they first met when she attended the adult male ... Read more...
Star Surveillance: Sheen, Abdul, Hyland, Harris, Aoki and Sandler
Actor Charlie Sheen was on his best behavior when he turned up with two brunettes, his manager and other friends at Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace. The group of eight began with caviar and artichoke and black truffle soup. For the main course, Charlie left it to the chefs and raved about the four fish and four meat entrees they shared. Charlie also knows his wines, ordering a bottle of Silveroak Cabernet and two bottles of a 1995 vintage Bordeaux. ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Brooke Burke-Charvet returns as Miss America host
Gorgeous Brooke Burke-Charvet, who returns to co-host “Dancing With the Stars” for a fifth season in March, also has signed on to co-host next month’s 2012 Miss America Pageant at Planet Hollywood for a second consecutive year. Brooke won the mirror-ball trophy in Season 7 of the ABC blockbuster with Derek Hough. It’s a busy start to the New Year for Brooke while she’s here the week of Jan. 9 leading up to the live Jan. 14 telecast with “The ... Read more...
Photos: Brit’s good deed turns into $821,000 World Poker Tour win
It’s the poker script Hollywood couldn’t have dreamed up. Baldheaded Brit James Dempsey flew to Las Vegas a week ago on an errand to pick up money owed to his pal Chris Moorman. While waiting around, he shelled out $10,000 to enter the World Poker Tournament with 412 players and made it to the Final Table. Among the big names of poker eliminated along the way: Daniel Negreanu, Erik Seidel, Phil Hellmuth and the tournament’s namesake Doyle Brunson. Once there, ... Read more...
Strip celebrities help shatter annual Christmas toy drive record
The Morning Zoo’s DJ Chet Buchanan’s 13th Annual Toy Drive wrapped up with overwhelming numbers: 2,647 bikes, 16 50-foot semi trucks full of toys and a whopping $201,012 in gift cards and cash. All of it will be given to underprivileged children who may not otherwise have presents this holiday season. Among the generous Strip stars: Holly Madison, who donated $20,000; Criss Angel, who presented $13,000, along with bicycles and other gifts; and the “Pawn Stars” cast, who chipped in ... Read more...
Barry Manilow hospitalized amid rumors he’s returning to L.V. Hilton
Hours after superstar entertainer Barry Manilow ended his 2-year run at the Paris over the weekend, he wound up in a hospital for surgery as rumors swirled that his wrap party in the rival Las Vegas Hilton signaled a possible return there. Before jumping to the Paris, Barry had a 5-year contract run at the Hilton. In all, his seven years here total an amazing 1,000 shows. But there was little time for the 68-year-old singer-songwriter to celebrate. He went ... Read more...
Counter Intelligence: Old Homestead; truffles at Valentino; new chef at Mix
Hot off the grill! Not only is it the oldest steakhouse in New York, opened in 1868, but Old Homestead also has played host to stars and presidents alike. For two years, Jackie Gleason had his own table there so he could sit down immediately without a reservation, and John F. Kennedy Jr. had his bachelor party there. Now for the first time, Las Vegas diners get to experience its traditions and delicacies just like every mayor of Manhattan has ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Oscar Goodman hires first ‘broads’ for downtown venue
Former Mayor Oscar Goodman has enthusiastically told me his plans for the saloon at his new steakhouse Oscar’s, with the tagline “Beef, Booze & Broads,” at the downtown Plaza and hopes to have me there for a trial dining and drinking evening this week once training is completed for the first “lounge ladies” he’s hired. Oscar wants it open in time for New Year’s partying. One of the “broads” is former James Bond beauty Robbin Young, who won a Playboy ... Read more...
Exclusive: ‘Immortal’ show to open May 2013; director, designer in place
Celebrities and fans alike are turning out in force for Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour,” and now for the second consecutive week since opening at Mandalay Bay Events Center, it’s at the top of the charts. Since its tour began in Montreal in October, it has accumulated nearly $100 million in ticket sales. Pollstar reports that “Immortal” has become the highest-grossing live show in the country, and the figures are staggering, with nearly $2 million in ... Read more...
Is ‘Dancing With the Stars’ live show set for the Tropicana?
It’s more than just rumor, as plans are moving forward to bring a live version of ABC’s ratings blockbuster “Dancing With the Stars” to the Tropicana in February as a new residency, I have learned exclusively. Just as Vegas DeLuxe had the exclusives on Motley Crue’s new mini residency at the Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel and our recent interview with Wynn headliner Garth Brooks, we can tip that the new dance-show run will feature a combination of dance ... Read more...
Photos: Jay-Z’s party at Tao includes champagne fairies, marching band
Hip-hop mogul Jay-Z didn’t make his Las Vegas visit a one-night stand. After his sold-out Watch the Throne tour stop with Kanye West at MGM Grand Garden Arena on Friday night, he wanted another epic night at Tao in the Venetian, so he threw an after after-party for fans wanting more last night, and Al Powers was on duty for a photo gallery of the celebration. Jay-Z and his wife Beyonce attended Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World ... Read more...
Angel Porrino is Santa’s sexy mistress for XXXMas Party at Posh
“Absinthe” and “Holly’s World” siren Angel Porrino secured her spot on Santa’s naughty list as the blonde bombshell hosted her XXXMas Party at Posh Nightclub at the adults-only playground Crazy Horse III last night, and contributing photographer Bryan Steffy was onsite for the reality TV starlet’s bash. Angel, who is currently filling in for Holly Madison in “Peepshow” at Planet Hollywood, had fans rocking over her holiday cheer as she sported a handmade Santa’s mistress outfit complete with fire-engine-red stilettos ... Read more...
Photos: ‘Modern Family’ star Sarah Hyland toasts 21st birthday at Bank
“Modern Family” star Sarah Hyland’s 21st birthday was a magical and glittering celebration at the Bank in the Bellagio last night. The birthday girl, known to millions as Haley Dunphy on the hit Emmy Award-winning ABC comedy, looked stunning and sweet in a Chagoury Couture dress as she arrived at the nightclub shortly before midnight with boyfriend Matt Prokop and a group of 10 friends. Our thanks to contributing photographer Denise Truscello for her celebratory gallery. Sarah began her evening ... Read more...
NFR Day 10 photos and videos: Rodeo’s world champions crowned
It was a grand evening of champions as Round 10 closed the 53rd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, and bareback rider Kaycee Feild and steer wrestling star Luke Branquinho were the standout heroes last night at the Thomas & Mack Center. Amid the excitement, one note of near tragedy when bull rider Shane Proctor, who was seconds away from a world title, was ejected. His bull Black Attack stomped him and broke his left arm. Shane remained motionless for several minutes ... Read more...
Jay-Z, radiant Beyonce attend ‘Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour’
Superstar music couple Beyonce and Jay-Z attended last night’s early performance of Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour” at Mandalay Bay Events Center. The radiantly pregnant Beyonce wore a leopard-print dress with an embellished neckline and sported gold high heels — with a shawl to disguise (or complement?) the obvious baby bump. After the performance, which premiered in Las Vegas one week ago along with the Michael Jackson Fan Fest, the couple visited the backstage area to ... Read more...
Photos: Jenny McCarthy parties with Cheryl Burke, Kelly Monaco at Paris
Blonde bombshell Jenny McCarthy stole the hearts of partygoers at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens at the Paris last night after she’d stunned the crowd of fans looking better than ever on the red carpet dressed in a sequined tank by Stella McCartney and tighterthanthis second-skin black pants. “Dancing With the Stars” pro dancer champion Cheryl Burke and “General Hospital” actress Kelly Monaco, Season 1 “DTWS” champion, joined the actress and model. Jenny, Playboy’s 1994 Playmate of the Year, spent the ... Read more...
Exclusive: Mario Batali reveals plans for his own online TV network
After years on cable TV, Chef Mario Batali has gone mainstream TV network star with his daily appearances on ABC’s successful new talk show “The Chew.” Now the renewed fame and fortune will allow him to make an even bigger bet with his small-screen shows. Mario now wants his own online TV network and plans to launch it in early 2012 as he continues the global expansion of his restaurant empire. The “Iron Chef America” winner goes back with me ... Read more...
NFR Day 9 photos: Kaycee Feild wins world title, joins dad as champion
The evening belonged to bareback horse rider Kaycee Field as — under the watchful eye of his proud father — he won his world championship at the 53rd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo last night. It was one of a string of sensational success stories for the Utah cowboy who lives 360 miles north of Las Vegas, even though he didn’t win the round and placed 4th. But the points and the purse took him over the top. Kaycee was the ... Read more...
Photos: Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ & Beer opens with concert at Excalibur
The opening of Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ & Beer wouldn’t have been complete without the Southern Rock group rockin’ the house, as they opened their first venue at Excalibur last night, and Denise Truscello was onsite for a photo gallery and Richard Corey for his videos posted on YouTube. MLB’s Jose Canseco; Grammy-winning trumpeter and pianist Arturo Sandoval; Carlos Fuente Jr., president of Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia; championship bull riders Beau Hill and Rocky McDonald; Playmate and “Holly’s World” and ... Read more...
NFR Day 8 photos: Feild wins; field narrows; rides tighter and faster
Only two rides remain for the cowboys and cowgirls of the 53rd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo after last night’s epic presentation at the Thomas & Mack Center. The field is narrowing. The picture is becoming clearer. The competitors are riding faster and tighter in the closing stages — and for some incredible reason the horses and bulls seem to be bucking higher and meaner. Talk about excitement for 17,558 fans. They saw bareback rider Kaycee Feild hold onto his top ... Read more...
Celebrity preview: Jay-Z, Kanye, Bocelli, Adkins, Manilow and NFR
It doesn’t matter what your musical tastes are this weekend — there’s something for everyone, and it could only happen in Vegas all within a mile of one another. It’s sad that superstar entertainer Barry Manilow, who has done so much for Las Vegas, wraps his 2-year run at the Paris. That’s where “Jersey Boys” at the Palazzo will relocate to next spring while Barry treks to Europe to fulfill concert dates there, although there are still rumors that he’ll ... Read more...
Photos: Sinead O’Connor weds at A Little White Wedding Chapel in L.V.
By Erik Kabik Irish singer-songwriter Sinead O’Connor married Barry Herridge on her 45th birthday at A Little White Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas tonight. I was invited to photograph the couple as they said their vows in a very nontraditional setting on Las Vegas Boulevard. O’Connor was thrilled and said that she dreamed of getting married in Las Vegas in a pink Cadillac. She cried during the ceremony in the back of the vehicle. The “Nothing Compares 2 U” singer ... Read more...
Photos: XS, Tryst donate $171,000 to toy drive, shattering 2010 record
As predicted, the staff of Steve Wynn’s XS at the Encore and Tryst at the neighboring Wynn shattered their record donation last year, with more than $171,000 in toys to DJ Chet Buchanan’s 13th annual Morning Zoo toy drive for underprivileged of the Las Vegas Valley through HELP of Southern Nevada. The staff raises money all year long, collecting a portion of their tips and contributions to make the donation. More than 100 employees gathered at a Wal-Mart to fill ... Read more...
Videos: Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Bar, BBQ and Beer saloon opens at Excalibur
When iconic rockers Lynyrd Skynyrd play a special concert tonight to officially open their first-ever Bar, BBQ and Beer saloon at the Excalibur, you could call it one of the largest garage-band venues in the world. Parts of it will remind fans of the Jacksonville, Fla., Hell House which they called home. Hell because it didn’t have air conditioning for summer and heating for winter. But it’s where they made music loved by generations over their nearly 50 years, and ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Kris Jenner, Mark Ballas join Miss America judges panel
Reality TV matriarch Kris Jenner has been selected as one of the judges of next month’s 2012 Miss America Pageant hosted by “The Bachelor’s” Chris Harrison live from Planet Hollywood and airing on ABC. Kris, mother to Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian, joins “Dancing With the Stars” pro dancer champion Mark Ballas and Lara Spencer of “Good Morning America,” among others. I’m already wondering if Kris, whose family is expanding evermore with reality TV shows on E! Entertainment, will pitch ... Read more...
NFR Day 7 photos: Kaycee Feild returns to the top spot in Round 7
Bareback rider Kaycee Feild made it back into the top slot — his fourth win of the week — at the 53rd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo last night, but it took a second ride to make that possible. All-time champion Trevor Brazile kept his winning streak going in the seventh consecutive round in team steer roping at the Thomas & Mack. Kaycee, of Payson, Utah, was awarded a re-ride on a second horse after a near disastrous entry onto the ... Read more...
Photos: Bellagio, Palazzo get into the holiday spirit with seasonal displays
The Strip is ablaze with lights and decorations for the holiday season, and rival resort-hotels are duking it out for top honors. The Venetian is the new kid on the block with its Winter in Venice spectacular Strip side, while its sister Palazzo has unveiled its winter garden at the atrium waterfall. The Bellagio is the veteran, and once again its winter exhibit is an amazing attraction. Its centerpiece is a stately 42-foot Shasta Fir decorated with more than 1,700 ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: ‘There is so much energy in Vegas,’ Fergie says
Pop superstar Fergie, who will kick off the New Year hosting and performing at the gala opening of 1OAK nightclub in the Mirage, is on the December cover of our sister magazine Vegas. Commenting on her Dec. 31 gig, the Black Eyed Peas singer said: “There is so much energy in Vegas. People come here to have a good time. 1OAK is such a dope spot in New York. They know how to throw a good party! It’s perfect to ... Read more...
Photos: ‘Immortal’ is Jamie King, Cirque’s loving tribute to King of Pop
By Don Chareunsy Everything one would expect in a Cirque du Soleil spectacular is present and accounted for in “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour,” which opened at Mandalay Bay Events Center on Saturday night: sweeping artistry and astounding athleticism; top-notch production values and technology; French-Canadian humor and quirkiness; and a sensory overload in the best way possible. “Immortal” excels in many areas, and the credit is largely due to the talented Jamie King, the show’s author, director and chief ... Read more...
NFR Day 6 photos: Rookie Chandler Bownds rules; Kaycee Feild’s new record
As the 2011 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo eclipses the halfway mark and heads toward the remaining rounds, some of the cowboys can’t wait to get in the ring, while others will be happier when the pain and losses come to an end. For Lubbock, Texas, cowboy Chandler Bownds, it was a double celebration watched by a sold-out crowd of 17,277 fans at the Thomas & Mack Center for night six of the NFR. Chandler won Round 6 on Rookie Night, ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Bellagio hosts World Poker Tour’s Five Diamond Classic
The World Poker Tour is the event that started the poker craze 10 years ago, and Doyle Brunson’s Five Diamond Classic is back at the Bellagio today where it all began. In 2001, a then-unknown and hyper-aggressive player, Gus Hansen, captured the first WPT title, and now it’s become one of the most prestigious poker events. Last year, the tournament had its strongest Final Table when Antonio “The Magician” Esfandiari claimed his second WPT title on his 32nd birthday. Today, ... Read more...
Nightlife industry, Criss Angel get in charitable spirit with holiday toy drive
Nightclubs on the Strip may be rivals during the year, but during the holidays, they join forces for DJ Chet Buchanan’s 13th Annual Toy Drive. While he’s freezing atop the scaffolding encampment at Nevada Energy for his round-the-clock, 10-day drive, nightclub employees have been busy fundraising and shopping to make donations. Illusionist Criss Angel from Cirque du Soleil’s “Believe” at the Luxor is just one of the Strip celebrities duplicating their gift giving again this year. Tomorrow, nearly 100 employees ... Read more...
Exclusive: Is Mr. Garth Brooks going to Washington? Plus, his Wynn show
Editor’s Note: Part 1 of Robin Leach’s exclusive interview with Garth Brooks was posted Dec. 2. Hotel mogul Steve Wynn is known for developing incredible Las Vegas skyline towers and his keen appreciation of famous paintings and even more famous artworks. When he signed country king Garth Brooks to an exclusive residency at his Encore Theater in the Wynn, his daring idea of a bare stage except for a stool for two bottles of water and an acoustic guitar for ... Read more...
ACA photos: Kristin Chenoweth, Toby Keith, Trace Adkins offer surprises
It’s safe to expect the unexpected script lines at the American Country Awards, but the winners aren’t necessarily a mystery, as a look at the lineup of the show is a list of the victors. Right from the get-go, host Trace Adkins said Fox executives who teamed him with Kristin Chenoweth to “toe the line” were using “fighting words.” He didn’t mince words, either, in our backstage video interview. Toby Keith, owner of I Love This Bar & Grill at ... Read more...
Madonna turns to Cirque du Soleil for Super Bowl direction
By John Katsilometes The question was a softball, but it wound up a football. During a Q&A with media types onstage at Mandalay Bay Events Center, music director Kevin Antunes was asked about his next project after his work on the Las Vegas stop for “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour” was finished. “For me?” he asked back. “The Super Bowl halftime show.” Well then. A quick connecting of the dots revealed that Antunes and Jamie King, the “Immortal” director, ... Read more...
NFR Day 5 photos: Cancer survivor wins round; world title race tightens
The races for the world title are shaping up with the best cowboy performances to date and a new arena barrel-racing record. That’s the expert summary from Round 5 of the 53rd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at the Thomas & Mack Center. How sweet it was on “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” night that cancer survivor Jhett Johnson took the victory lap teamed with header Turtle Powell. The duo turned in an amazing 3.8-second run in front of 17,242 fans ... Read more...
Photos: Hidden for years, Jackson memorabilia under 24/7 security
Round-the-clock guards are on duty for maximum security at the extraordinary priceless collection of Michael Jackson memorabilia on display at Michael Jackson Fan Fest in conjunction with the Las Vegas run of Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour” at Mandalay Bay. More than 600 pieces valued in the million$ have been curated from Michael’s possessions for the exhibit. Many items have been kept hidden for years and are on show for the first time, so much so ... Read more...
Photos: A (Las Vegas) marathon wrap-up of Santas, stilettos and stars
Everybody, including celebrities, was on the run over the weekend in Las Vegas. There were stars at the Great Santa Run for Opportunity Village’s attempt to wrest back the Guinness World Record; “Dancing With the Stars” host Brooke Burke-Charvet hosted the first Stiletto Dash through the Palazzo; and “Kate Plus 8” star Kate Gosselin turned up for yesterday’s marathon with a message on her T-shirt. Lookalike redheads model Angie Everhart and former “Fantasy” headliner Angelica Bridges added to the glitz ... Read more...
Star Surveillance: Gandolfini, ‘DWTS,’ ‘Revenge,’ NASCAR and UFC stars
Actor James Gandolfini attended Flamingo magician headliner Nathan Burton’s show while on the Strip researching his role as a billionaire casino owner in the upcoming comedy “Burt Wonderstone” about rival magicians. The 2012 film also stars Jim Carrey, Steve Carrell, Steve Buscemi and Olivia Wilde. The “Sopranos” star also had Sunday brunch at “Iron Chef” winner Kerry Simon’s restaurant Simon in Palms Place. … Also at the Palms, actor Kevin James to support his friend UFC fighter Jason “Mayhem” Miller, ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Las Vegas reality TV stars dominate the small screen
It’s not just our beloved “Pawn Stars” who are getting the reality TV spotlight. Tonight starts the two-night live event from the Hard Rock Hotel on the Discovery Channel when Jesse James battles the father-and-son bike-building team of Paul Teutul Sr. and Paul Teutul Jr. on “American Chopper Live.” The motorcycle mania is open to fans who will vote on who builds the best chopper. Stand clear because, with these three fiery combatants, it really will be a war of ... Read more...
NFR Day 4 photos: Trevor Brazile wins 9th world title; Kaycee Feild slips
Hopes of a new world bareback horse-riding record were dashed when Kaycee Feild failed to win a fourth consecutive day, but the very predictable world-champion cowboy Trevor Brazile went into the record books with his ninth world championship and 16th gold buckle. As Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association executives said, “It was inevitable.” Trevor’s win ties him with Jim Shoulders for second all-time in pro rodeo history. Only steer roper Guy Allen, with 18, has more, and Trevor is gunning for ... Read more...
Censors ready for American Country Awards at MGM Grand on Fox
The censors may well have faster fingers on the control buttons tonight than the guitarists on their strings for the live, 2-hour American Country Awards airing on Fox from MGM Grand Garden Arena if weekend rehearsals are any indication. Co-host Trace Adkins isn’t shy about deviating from the script to throw in bombshells and expletives. Toby Keith, who is performing the TV debut of his song “Red Solo Cup,” always adds a few off-the-cuff shockers. Add in the outspoken “Pawn ... Read more...
Photos: ‘DWTS’ pro champion Karina Smirnoff skates into Winter in Venice
“Dancing With the Stars” pro dancer champion Karina Smirnoff celebrated the holidays and her mirror-ball trophy win at the Winter in Venice celebration at the Venetian and Palazzo on Saturday afternoon. Fans waited in the chilly weather to catch a glimpse of the “Dancing” star, who won her first trophy with actor J.R. Martinez, as they enjoyed strolling carolers, eggnog cupcakes and hot apple cider. Karina posed for photographs with fans during the Winter in Venice festivities, at which she ... Read more...
Photos: Holly Madison celebrates her 32nd birthday at Chateau
By Don Chareunsy “Peepshow” at Planet Hollywood and “Holly’s World” platinum blonde bombshell Holly Madison wowed the crowd on the red carpet as she celebrated her 32nd birthday at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens at the Paris last night. Las Vegas’ Sweetheart dazzled in a gold-sparkle dress by Versace for H&M and red-sparkle Christian Louboutin stilettos with gold spikes, a perfect ensemble for the holiday season, and celebrated after walking the red carpet for Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson: The Immortal ... Read more...
NFR Day 3 photos: Kaycee Feild of Utah wins for third consecutive night
Young bareback horse rider Kaycee Feild had the ultimate field day scoring a Stetson-sized hat trick with his third consecutive win in Night 3 of the 53rd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at the Thomas & Mack Center. It made him only the second bareback rider in history to grab such a streak — the other was in 1969 — and his three nights of wins have earned him $53,654. Kaycee, #5, repeated last night what he began Thursday and continued ... Read more...
Photos: Tony Stewart is NASCAR’s multimillion-dollar champion
Wisecracking racecar driver Tony Stewart is truly a $6 million man but proudly says “no bionic parts — yet!” Last night, he swapped his signature fire suit and brand-emblazed track jumpsuit for the sartorial splendor of an expensive tuxedo. But when you’re picking up the Sprint Cup NASCAR Series winner’s check of more than $5 million at the end of NASCAR Champions Week in Las Vegas, to heck with the fashion expense. The awards at the Wynn with Reba McEntire ... Read more...
NFR Day 2 photos: Second night of the rodeo is a repeat of the first night
Rewind the tape because Night 2 of the 2011 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo was nearly identical to Night 1! Trevor Knowles, who was the steer-wrestling star in the spotlight at the Thomas & Mack Center, is now 2-for-2, as is bareback rider Kaycee Feild and tie-down roper Cody Ohl. But it was Trevor who garnered the biggest raves of more than 17,440 fans when he downed his steer in just 3.3 seconds. All three cowboys stand in great shape for ... Read more...
Director Jamie King spent year on ‘Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour’
Life for Jamie King in his relationship with the late Michael Jackson has gone full circle. His first professional gig as a dancer was on the King of Pop’s Dangerous tour. That 1992 experience launched his career. He credits two years of working with Michael for everything he knows about dance and choreography: “Michael is ‘Immortal’ because he lives on in all of us. “Michael believed in me and gave me the gift of seeing the world for 24 months ... Read more...
NASCAR Victory Lap photos: A fire on the Strip, plus a new 3-year contract
2011 NASCAR Series champion Tony Stewart says he’s leading the racecar drivers in wanting a new 3-year renewal with Las Vegas for the Victory Lap and Champions Week to stay here through 2014. NASCAR President Mike Helton told me exclusively: “I’m confident that we’ll wrap up all the details in the next few weeks and announce the renewal. Vegas is the best place for our NASCAR fans to come each year for this.” Tony told me: “All the drivers want ... Read more...
Running, dashing and walking on a Las Vegas Marathon weekend
The statistics are stunning: A record number of 44,000 marathon runners will shut down the Strip, a record number of 15,000 expected Opportunity Village supporters will don Christmas suits for the 5K Santa Run, and it’s the first year of the high-heeled Stiletto Dash through the Palazzo, with the Great Santa Run and the Stiletto Dash raising funds for our Opportunity Village. So be it running shoes, sneakers or stilettos, it’s an amazing weekend in Las Vegas for runners from ... Read more...
NFR Day 1 photos: Kaycee Feild of Utah wins first night of competition
The recurring dream that bareback rider Kaycee Feild always has is to live up to his father’s reputation as a Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer where Lewis Feild became five-time world champion. The Utah cowboy took another step last night to making that dream come true when he won the first night of the 53rd Wrangler National Finals Rodeo at the Thomas & Mack Center. Horseback Magazine has described Kaycee as “nothing short of spectacular” for his horse-riding skills. Last ... Read more...
Motley Crue confirms residency at the Hard Rock Hotel in February
Three decades after beginning its iconic journey of debauchery and decadence, Motley Crue has confirmed plans to invade Las Vegas with the city’s first-ever hard rock residency: “Motley Crue in Sin City.” The group will perform an extended run Feb. 3-19 at the Joint in the Hard Rock Hotel, as first exclusively reported here at VegasDeLuxe.com last month. “Motley Crue in Sin City” aims to leave the loud impression that what happens in Las Vegas will be heard around the ... Read more...
Celebrity preview: Santas, cowboys, runners, NASCAR, ‘Immortal,’ singers
It’s an only-in-Vegas weekend. Runners dressed in Santa Claus suits wave at cowboys in huge Stetson hats brushing shoulders with top country music stars watching 44,000 marathon runners take off from the very spot where thousands of Michael Jackson fans will invade for the Las Vegas premiere of Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour” as NASCAR fans salute their racecar drivers. Is this the busiest weekend of the year? Talk about pedestrian and traffic congestion in the ... Read more...
Exclusive: Garth Brooks talks Wynn residency, empty nest and touring
Tonight starts an incredible month for king of country Garth Brooks. First, congratulations as wife Trisha Yearwood and he celebrate six years of marriage on Dec. 10. Then this weekend’s four solo concerts at Encore Theater in the Wynn mark the start of his third year of residency shows. It is the original contract’s halfway mark ending the second year, but Garth says emphatically that he wants to stay on for as long as the owner, hotel tycoon Steve Wynn, ... Read more...
Two ‘Immortal’ music geniuses say 20 months were ‘a massive undertaking’
Both “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour” musical magicians admitted that the new Cirque du Soleil show was “a massive undertaking” but “purely based out of a labor of love.” Kevin Antunes, the musical designer, and Greg Phillinganes, the musical director, talked candidly with me about how they spent 20 months producing the music for “Immortal” and described it as “the biggest responsibility of our lifetime.” The two geniuses chatted with me in Montreal as we sat on the empty ... Read more...
Kristin Cavallari talks fame, fashion, second engagement to Jay Cutler
Reality TV star Kristin Cavallari arrives in Las Vegas tomorrow with a brand new sparkling 5.2-carat diamond engagement ring on her hand after yesterday’s news that she’s marrying Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler. It’s their second engagement — the first one ended in July — but the 24-year-old beauty says this time, it’s official and definite! Ahead of her appearance for Chinese Laundry at Dillard’s on Saturday and later that evening at the red carpet for “Michael Jackson: The Immortal ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Tony Stewart’s awards for boldest, funniest moments
NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Tony Stewart hosts the Fifth Annual Stewie Awards at the lounge in the Hard Rock Hotel tonight on Sirius Satellite Radio. It’s irreverent and entertaining as Tony and co-host Matt Yocum replay the wackiest moments of the season. Listen at Sirius Channel 90 or follow the action @SiriusXMNASCAR on Twitter. Tony won his third championship title in a down-to-the-wire battle against Carl Edwards in one of the most exciting finishes in NASCAR history at Homestead ... Read more...
MMA Awards photos: Hometown heroes win amid glitz, brawn at Palms
It was a night in which the bravado and brawn of MMA male stars were overpowered by the knockout glitz and glamour of wives, girlfriends, female fighters, ring girls and sportswear models. The beauties sparkled and shined on the red carpet at the 4th Annual Fighters Only World MMA Awards at Palms last night. Our thanks to photographers Denise Truscello and Scott Harrison and videographer Richard Corey for their coverage. For local heroes, it was another big win: For the ... Read more...
Cirque Week offers fans behind-the-scenes access for 10 days
Cirque du Soleil fans have an added bonus in store when “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour” premieres Saturday. Not just the first-ever King of Pop Fan Fest, but by wonderful coincidence, it also is the second annual Cirque Week — 10 days of extraordinary events with cast members from all seven Cirque productions on the Strip. It’s an experience of a lifetime with VIP backstage access to high-flying acrobats, whimsical characters, costume creations and state-of-the-art technology. “We are excited ... Read more...
Photos: NASCAR revs up at Fan Fest, ‘Newlywed Game’ and Hoedown
Thousands of NASCAR fans packed the downtown Fremont Street Experience yesterday to kick off Champions Week, and it was the first time all 12 Sprint Cup chase drivers were in Las Vegas celebrating together, including Tony Stewart as this year’s champion. It also was the debut of a unique version of “The Newlywed Game” with veteran daytime host Bob Eubanks. Incredibly, Tony won that, too — partnered with his teammate Ryan Newman! Las Vegas Motor Speedway owner Bruton Smith and ... Read more...
Photos: Madonna, Psy, Ed Sheeran, Aaron Paul, Chloe Moretz at Lavo, Tao
Music and Hollywood celebrities were out en masse at Tao in The Venetian and Lavo at the Palazzo after the 2013 Billboard Music Awards at MGM ...
Photos: Bruno Mars hosts post-Billboard Music Awards bash at The Bank
Singer-songwriter Bruno Mars hosted and performed at The Bank in Belllagio late Sunday night, and the crowd included Chris Brown and Jason Derulo. ...
Star Surveillance: Phelps, Zeta-Jones, Damon, Avicii, DeLoach, Roday and Gruffudd
Twenty-two-time Olympic medalist Michael Phelps stayed on in Las Vegas after Labor Day Weekend to continue partying at Tuesday night’s Lost ...
Strip Scribbles: From ‘America’s Got Talent’ to the Palazzo for local acts?
“America’s Got Talent” judges have been tough on Las Vegas acts, as the top-rated NBC series edges closer to next week’s finals. But there’s a silver ...
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