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Photos: Criss Angel’s buried alive in cement stunt at Mirage is shut down
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Star Surveillance: Jenny McCarthy, Ice-T, Coco, Frank Marino, ‘Hangover’
‘Michael Jackson One’ is Cirque’s best and includes snow at Mandalay
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Superstar DJ Memorial Day Weekend kicks off battle of the nightclubs
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Preview: Cirque’s ‘Michael Jackson One’ opens tonight at Mandalay Bay
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Luxe Life Blog • Archive for April 2012
Garth Brooks vs. Tim McGraw in L.V.? Phil Ruffin’s $20 million mansion
We start out the week with Wicked Whispers & Racy Rumors! Here are seven exclusive rumblings that just have to be reported: GARTH GETS COMPETITION? It will probably be denied and dismissed as speculation, and I will be under fire for yet another supposed exclusive. But are country king and queen Tim McGraw and Faith Hill about to sign contracts to topple their pal Garth Brooks from his lofty reign on the Strip? I am hearing very serious information that ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Las Vegas-based SK+G competes on AMC’s ‘The Pitch’
“The Pitch,” a new, unscripted reality TV series, begins as a two-episode, back-to-back premiere tonight on AMC with a Las Vegas advertising agency featured in a battle of wits to create the next big advertising campaign for environmental solutions company Waste Management. Our friends John Schadler and Jerry Kramer founded their agency SK+G and along with their staff will be seen on AMC, home of “Mad Men” and viewed in some 100 million homes. “The Pitch” is produced by the ... Read more...
Shows by Murray Sawchuck and Rich Little debut tonight in L.V.
Two one-man shows debut tonight in Las Vegas. Magician and “America’s Got Talent” semifinalist Murray Sawchuck will attempt the impossible as his illusions show begins its summer run at the Tropicana’s Laugh Factory when the audience surrounds him and will be just 2 feet away from the tricks. Legendary comedy impressionist Rich Little returns to the Las Vegas stage with a pre-Broadway run of his “Jimmy Stewart & Friends” featuring more than 25 celebrity icon voices at the LVH (Las ... Read more...
Photos: Tiger Woods’ Tiger Jam with Bon Jovi, David Cook nets $1 million
For the third time in 14 years, Jon Bon Jovi rocked Tiger Woods’ annual concert fundraiser Tiger Jam, and this weekend was the best of the hat track, raising $1 million. It’s difficult to believe that Jon, 50, is stronger than ever jumping, racing and running all over the Mandalay Bay Events Center stage. It was “a jukebox full of rock and roll hits,” as Jon put it himself, and the sold-out house loved them all. Thanks to our contributing ... Read more...
Deadmau5, Santigold, Bloc Party, Hall & Oates announce L.V. concerts
The slate of exciting summer concerts in Las Vegas continues to expand as the Cosmopolitan announced today that indie favorites Bloc Party and Santigold play the hotel-casino’s Boulevard Pool on Saturday, Aug. 11, at 9 p.m. The double bill promises to be an exciting, dance-heavy set, with Brits Bloc Party returning from a 4-year hiatus and Santigold delivering new material from her anticipated sophomore release “Master of My Make-Believe,” out May 1. Tickets cost $30 and go on sale this ... Read more...
Photos: Azure opens with Gilles, Wilmer and super-sized champagne
The champagne came super-sized. The flutes were stacked in their own baby baths of ice, and the mojitos, too — but with individual, long straws, St. Tropez-style. It was fun in the sun — or shaded in luxury cabanas — for “Sex and the City” and “Dancing With the Stars” hunk Gilles Marini, “That ’70s Show” heartthrob Wilmer Valderrama and comedian David Spade on Saturday at the Season 4 opening of Azure Luxury Pool at the Palazzo. It was as ... Read more...
Photos: Whoa! Joey Lawrence toasts 36th birthday with bros at Chateau
By Don Chareunsy Actor and new Old Navy peddler Joey Lawrence celebrated his 36th birthday in Las Vegas with his brothers Matthew and Andrew Lawrence at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens and Sugar Factory American Brasserie, both in the Paris, on Saturday night. The handsome brothers started the evening dining at SFAB; the entourage of eight, including birthday boy Lawrence’s closest friends, enjoyed fried macaroni and cheese pops, bruschetta, a club sandwich, a four-cheese pizza (mozzarella, Fontina, parmesan and ricotta) and ... Read more...
Photos: Raucous Cage the Elephant rocks Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool
By Conor Shine Still riding high on the success of their hit 2011 album “Thank You, Happy Birthday,” Kentucky-bred indie rockers Cage the Elephant brought their riff-heavy brand of raucous rock to the Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool on Thursday night. Fans crowded around the stage on a blustery night as Cage the Elephant kicked off their set shortly after 10:15 p.m. with “2024,” a song whose distortion-heavy intro quickly segued into a rowdy pop-punk tune that set the tempo for the ... Read more...
Photos: Ray J parties at Gallery, dines and shops at Sugar Factory
By Don Chareunsy R&B singer and reality TV star Ray J had a busy Friday night in Las Vegas. Before playing host at Gallery Nightclub in Planet Hollywood, the brother of singer Brandy dined at Sugar Factory American Brasserie in the Paris and shopped at the adjoining retail store. Ray J and his entourage at SFAB enjoyed macaroni and cheese pops, sliders and spinach artichoke dip, while Ray J sipped on a large goblet of Sunshine Tea made with Seagram’s ... Read more...
Photos: UFC star Frank Mir taps the Maibock keg at Hofbrauhaus
By Don Chareunsy UFC fighter Frank Mir did a different, non-sports tapping Friday night, as the MMA stud tapped the first keg of Maibock brew at Hofbrauhaus in Las Vegas. Mir, a UFC fan favorite, is scheduled to battle Junior dos Santos for the UFC heavyweight title at UFC 146 in May. The first barrel of Maibock is tapped at Hofbrauhaus in the last week of April amid festivities that include Jagermeister spankings and stein-holding competitions. The first German/Bavarian beer ... Read more...
Photos: Cee Lo reveals Billboard Music Awards news, hosts at 1 OAK
By Don Chareunsy Singer-songwriter Cee Lo Green hosted and performed at 1 OAK in the Mirage on Friday night/early Saturday; the new coach on NBC’s “The Voice” performed a set around 1:45 a.m. that included his mega-smash “F*ck You” (the radio-friendly and “Glee” version is “Forget You”). Resident DJ Karma started the revelry behind the turntables while Cee Lo, who is about to become a Strip headliner with his show “Loberace” at Planet Hollywood in August, partied at a VIP ... Read more...
CinemaCon Day 4 photos: Stallone, Travolta, Theron, Pfeiffer, Kitsch
The stars shined bright by day and night throughout the CinemaCon 2012 National Association of Theater Owners meetings at Caesars Palace, and Hollywood studios really brought out their big guns to wrap it all up Thursday. John Travolta promoted “Savages” with director Oliver Stone and co-stars Salma Hayek and Taylor Kitsch. Taylor (“Friday Night Lights,” “John Carter”) did double duty promoting “Battleship” with co-star Brooklyn Decker (Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover girl and wife of tennis ace Andy Roddick). Stunning ... Read more...
Celebrity preview: Bon Jovi, Woods, Porrino, Cee Lo, Tosh, Ray J, Tiesto
Whether you laugh it, rev it, swing it, close it, dance it or drink it, this weekend in Las Vegas is all about mega-excitement, headline names from sports and music, plus a crew of comics bringing it to see which of them grabs the glory. No visitor needs an excuse to drink, but with O’Sheas shutting its doors, there’s a reason to crave a cocktail and buy a beer. The hotel, tucked between the Flamingo and Harrah’s, hosts the Final ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Nick Cannon toasts 4th anniversary with Mariah, health
It’s going to be a big celebration when DJ, actor, comedian and TV host Nick Cannon makes his highly anticipated return to Chateau Nightclub at the Paris on May 5 hosting a Cinco de Mayo bash. Nick is celebrating his fourth wedding anniversary with Mariah Carey by renewing their vows this weekend in the real French capital and his health again — beating kidney failure and lung blood clots. Nick has had to cancel three previous stints. Nick is cutting ... Read more...
Cee Lo to announce Billboard Music Awards hosts, nominees and acts
Music mogul Cee Lo Green will reveal the hosts, finalists and performers for the 2012 Billboard Music Awards here Friday for the May 20 ABC broadcast from MGM Grand Garden Arena, but we have a lot of the details in advance. Is chart-topper Adele likely to be the big surprise attendee? Justin Bieber fans can already go for the smelling salts because the teen idol will be back in town. Singer, songwriter, record producer and now TV personality Cee Lo, ... Read more...
CinemaCon Day 3 photos: Scorsese, Lee, Black, Diaz, James Bond
The star who stole the spotlight at CinemaCon Day 3 at Caesars Palace on Wednesday wasn’t even there. He also grabbed all the buzz and attention, overshadowing Oscar-winning directors Martin Scorsese and Ang Lee. Although gorgeous Cameron Diaz shined with Jack Black and Antonio Banderas with wife Melanie Griffith, it was Special Agent 007 who rubbed out competition yet again. Yes, Bond is back! The 23rd installment of the James Bond franchise, “Skyfall” with Daniel Craig as the MI5 secret ... Read more...
Photos: Florence + the Machine singer talks Frida Kahlo, Las Vegas
By Don Chareunsy Resplendent onstage at Boulevard Pool at the Cosmopolitan on Saturday night in a floor-length, silver-sequined gown, Florence Welch, lead singer of the hotter-than-hot Florence + the Machine, had the sold-out, outdoor crowd under her spell with her at-once mesmerizing, enchanting and piercing voice, vintage-yet-modern sense of style and her measured, theatrical arm movements. Afterward, on the arrival carpet for the MSN Presents Florence + the Machine’s Las Vegas After-Party at the nearby Boom Box Room in Marquee ... Read more...
CinemaCon Day 2 photos: Depp, more ‘Pirates’ films, Kunis, Franco, Garner
It’s definite that actor Johnny Depp has never been under the roof of a Las Vegas hotel with Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog at the same time. Strange bedfellows — and proof that the filmmaking world relies on characters of all kinds to produce box office blockbusters. The unlikely trio was spotted at the Colosseum in Caesars Palace on Tuesday on the second day of the four-day CinemaCon global theater owners meetings. They were all there to promote “Lone ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Neil and Bagans’ ‘Adventures’ at Riviera airs Friday
“Startling! Overwhelming!” Friday’s Season 6 finale of “Ghost Adventures” is being billed as the scariest episode yet. Las Vegas-based producer and series creator Zak Bagans says fellow resident and Motley Crue rocker Vince Neil underwent “an overwhelming physical experience.” He added: “Our crew with Nick Groff and Aaron Goodwin have investigated some of the scariest and most notoriously haunted places in the world during dusk-to-dawn lockdowns. This one tops them all.” The Motley Crue frontman told me: “After what we ... Read more...
Photos: Elegant ‘DWTS’ exit for Gladys Knight — with one parting shot
It couldn’t have been a more elegant exit. In a sense, it was fitting that our hometown Empress of Soul Gladys Knight ended her “Dancing With the Stars” 6-week run on Motown Week. She was first to dance Monday and last to dance again Tuesday after judge Bruno Tonioli cast his deciding tie-breaker vote over Carrie Ann Inaba’s wish to save Gladys and Len Goodman’s decision to boot her. The 67-year-old superstar singer remained a total lady — a queen, ... Read more...
Photos and videos: Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s media circus with 50 Cent
You would never really know from his demeanor that just days after Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s May 5 boxing battle against Miguel Cotto at MGM’s Grand Garden Arena, the unbeaten mega-millionaire fighter will surrender to police to start an 87-day jail sentence. Floyd, at least for now, has put that nightmare behind him as he worked out Tuesday at his gym in front of a more than 100-strong media circus — including our contributing photographer Tom Donoghue, videographer Richard Corey and ... Read more...
Photos: DJ Pauly D, Pitbull, Cobra Starship and Fitz lead HRH’s Beachlife
By Don Chareunsy The Hard Rock Hotel kicked off the summer pool season with a 1-2-3-4 bang of music over the weekend, as DJ Pauly D, Pitbull, Fitz and the Tantrums and Cobra Starship served as the party-like-a-Hard-Rock-star hosts. The weekend marked the premiere of Beachlife, four days of poolside partying. Summer Camp Fridays with electronic duo Dragonette (they’re the vocals for DJ Martin Solveig’s smash dance hit “Hello”) kicked it off. On Saturday, Beachlife launched the Nectar Music Festival ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: David Foster’s 4th wife Yolanda joins ‘Real Housewives’
Whenever David “The Hit Man” Foster is in Las Vegas for his concerts and charity events, his stunning fourth wife Yolanda Hadid is always at his side and is even featured on the video walls of his shows. Now she’s replacing Camille Grammer on Season 3 of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” whose cast includes Adrienne Maloof of our Palms founding family. Yolanda, a stunning blonde-haired former model, was in a long relationship with the record producer before their ... Read more...
CinemaCon Day 1 photos: Sacha Baron Cohen, piracy, security
Security was tightened Monday at the glittering CinemaCon movie meetings at Caesars Palace, and not because “The Dictator” star Sacha Baron Cohen made a surprise appearance as many-medaled Admiral Gen. Aladeen from the fictional Republic of Wadiya escorted by two gun-toting beauties. Executives of the National Association of Theater Owners global meeting told Hollywood industry publications that one movie pirate had already been caught filming and turned over to Las Vegas police. Managing Director Mitch Neuhauser confirmed that additional security ... Read more...
Photos: Gladys Knight’s ‘DWTS’ partner Tristan MacManus vs. judges
The radiance and happiness that shone from our hometown Empress of Soul Gladys Knight on “Dancing With the Stars’ ” Motown salute Monday evening might well turn to sadness, heartbreak and emotional farewell tears on the results show tonight. Even her proud partner Tristan McManus, who was angry with the three tough judges’ comments, is predicting that they’ll wind up in the dance duel, where Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli might eliminate them. Despite Gladys, who celebrates ... Read more...
Photos: Holly Madison lets dogs out in Animal Foundation double duty
It’s no secret that “Peepshow” at Planet Hollywood headliner Holly Madison loves animals and is heavily involved with our valley’s largest animal shelter the Animal Foundation. On Sunday, she joined Flamingo magician headliner Nathan Burton and yours truly to introduce the 50 furry contestants competing in the 9th Annual Best in Show at Orleans Arena. The cuddly canines competed in the foundation’s largest premier fundraiser to benefit the more than 50,000 lost, unwanted and abandoned animals passing through Lied Animal ... Read more...
Caesars donates $250K to Opportunity Village on behalf of Penn
By Delen Goldberg Donald Trump “fired” Penn Jillette on Sunday’s episode of “Celebrity Apprentice,” but the magician’s real employer made good on Jillette’s promise to help a local charity. The Caesars Foundation donated $250,000 — the amount Jillette would have secured had he won the show — to Opportunity Village, a Las Vegas nonprofit that serves people with intellectual disabilities. “When I got pretend fired, my real bosses, the ones who really could fire me for real no kidding, decided ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Olivia Newton-John headlining in L.V.? Let’s get physical!
It’s Monday, and we’re starting out with … WICKED WHISPERS & RACY RUMORS Those talks about an Olivia Newton-John mini-residency here are continuing, but it won’t be until next spring because the Aussie singer has two opening events planned for her cancer hospital in Sydney and the global launch of her starring role in “A Few Best Men” this summer. Here’s a YouTube preview of the film: The 63-year-old “Grease” star is still going strong and is rather wild! DJ ... Read more...
2012 CinemaCon at Caesars: Stallone, Scorsese, Theron, Pfeiffer, Garner
If Tinseltown cameras grind to a halt this week and paparazzi cameras fail to snap its stars, don’t blame Las Vegas just because many of them are working and playing here right on the heels of the star-studded National Association of Broadcasters meetings and awards. The four-day, all-star Hollywood invasion of the Strip begins today as the largest and most important gathering of global movie-theater owners gets underway at Caesars Palace. The galaxy of stars includes Sylvester Stallone, Martin Scorsese, ... Read more...
Penn booted from ‘Apprentice’; Gladys’ Motown Week on ‘DWTS’
Las Vegas is well represented on tonight’s “Dancing With the Stars, and not just because our hometown Empress of Soul Gladys Knight continues her quest for the mirrored disco-ball trophy, but also because it’s Motown Week, a 2-hour special devoted to the music legends. There will be performances from Las Vegas resident Smokey Robinson, the Temptations, Martha Reeves and our Imperial Palace headliners Human Nature, who have just begun their first U.S. tour. Smokey, who has been inducted into the ... Read more...
Exclusive: Natasha Wicks, injured UFC ring girl turned Olympic hopeful
It’s an incredible story of courage, commitment and passion: One-time UFC ring girl Natasha Wicks has dealt with years of injuries after a college accident where her tailbone was knocked out of alignment. Incredibly, after a six-year break, she’s now practicing for a spot on the U.S. Olympic team to run in the Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics in 2016. The 27-year-old beauty who recently modeled for WonderCon told me: “It was bad enough to where it took me a ... Read more...
Photos: Tiesto, Sara Underwood, Ne-Yo, Brody Jenner at Encore club
By Don Chareunsy Encore Beach Club’s weekend-long season opening culminated this afternoon with a pulsating 2-hour-plus set by DJ Tiesto, the superstar artist’s debut at the dayclub in his yearlong residency at Steve Wynn’s Las Vegas properties the Wynn and Encore. Scantily clad fans basking in the sun clamored to snap photographs and record video of the superstar DJ on their cell phones. 2007 Playmate of the Year and G4 hostess Sara Underwood, Esquire’s “Hottest Woman of 2012, hosted the ... Read more...
Photos: Taking it off for 10 years at ‘X Burlesque’ at the Flamingo
By Don Chareunsy “X Burlesque” celebrated 10 years of headliner star status on the Strip last Thursday night; it all started in 2002 at the Aladdin before moving to its current home at the Flamingo, and the packed showroom was witness to a high-energy, 70-minute show that entertains like a series of sexy music videos, except that the gorgeous women are onstage mere feet away. The audience for the milestone performance included burlesque icon Tempest Storm, BMX bachelor Ricardo Laguna ... Read more...
Robin Leach remembers good TV industry friend Dick Clark
I would be remiss if I didn’t write a few words in memory of Dick Clark, a good TV industry friend who died Wednesday. He always told me to “stay young, think young — and sleep on a pillow over a speaker quietly playing 1970s and ’80s pop hits all night long!” The 82-year-old was the “word’s oldest teenager,” and I extend condolences to his lovely wife, Kari, who also was a friend of my business partner and mine the ... Read more...
Celebrity preview: Pauly D, Tiesto, Avicii, Pitbull, Florence + the Machine
Two extraordinary nights of legendary rockers: Crosby, Stills & Nash and the Eagles make for a magical Music Hall of Fame weekend. Add the return of “America’s Got Talent” winner Michael Grimm to the mix and the splash of DJs Tiesto and Pauly D at competing summer pool openings, and it’s a guaranteed fun weekend under the hot desert sun. Bring water to combat the heat and lotion to fight the sun. Our hometown hero Michael starts his new weekly ... Read more...
Photos: 10 years later, ‘X Burlesque’ still keeps audiences on their toes
By Don Chareunsy Topless revues are one of the heralded entertainment staples of the Strip; one might even say that they’re a rite of passage for a Las Vegas visitor. Tourists have many options, from the classic kitsch of “Jubilee!” at Bally’s to the shiny, new star power of “Peepshow” at Planet Hollywood. And then there’s “X Burlesque.” The edgy, erotic topless tour de force has made a name for itself with its in-your-face striptease and fiery choreography; tonight, the ... Read more...
Photos: Meet the lovely ladies of ‘X Burlesque’
The Flamingo’s fiery topless revue “X Burlesque” celebrates its 10th anniversary tonight. The show is known to offer a little something for everyone — and that especially goes for its lovely ladies. Before you head down to the showroom, why not get to know each of them a little more personally? From ex-Rockettes to 10-year vets, meet the dancing damsels of “X Burlesque.” Priscilla Entertainment is in her blood: Priscilla comes from a show biz family — her father is ... Read more...
Photos: From showgirls to vampires, the topless revues of the Strip
By Andrea Domanick Today marks the 10th anniversary of “X Burlesque” at the Flamingo. Topless revues are an iconic part of Las Vegas’ entertainment offerings; some, like “X,” have staying power, while others have fallen by the wayside. But one thing’s for sure: There’s never a shortage (or variety) of lovely ladies to look at on the Strip’s showroom stages. From classic showgirls to vampires, here are the topless revues of the Strip. The show with a little oh la ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Ten years of X-otic X-citement at ‘X Burlesque’
It’s a night of excitement and exotic ecstasy with dangerous, high-heeled dance shoes, seamed stockings and bulging bustiers as the sexy and topless Flamingo dancer headliners of “X Burlesque” mark their 10th anniversary performing on the Strip. Husband-and-wife producers Matt and Angela Stabile host a celebration at the Flamingo’s Sin City Brewery serving desserts from the new Center Cut Steakhouse before unveiling new, decadent dances and curvy corset costumes in the remastered revue. Congratulations on 10 years, and here’s to ... Read more...
Laura Croft’s observations on men and women’s fashion in Las Vegas
By Laura Croft Las Vegas is truly the Entertainment Capital of the World. People from all over the globe travel here to experience all of the wonderful things this city has to offer. With that, they also bring a variety of fashion. In this city, anything goes, which can be a good and bad thing fashion-wise. With the majority of people on the Strip being tourists who you’ll likely never see again, it is easier to take fashion risks, and ... Read more...
Photos: Spectacular aerial views of the Strip and downtown Las Vegas
By Don Chareunsy On an early morning in March, hard-working and always affable contributing photographer Tom Donoghue took to the Las Vegas skies aboard a Maverick Helicopter Tour chopper, and this spectacular photo gallery is the fruits of his high-flying labor. The Strip skyline — with Mandalay Bay, Tropicana, MGM Grand, New York-New York, Luxor, CityCenter, Rio, Mirage, Wynn, Encore, Trump Hotel, the new D Hotel, and many others in full view — is breathtaking, and downtown’s Symphony Park, with ... Read more...
Idina Menzel, Chris Botti, Diana Krall, Steve Martin at Smith Center
The new Smith Center for the Performing Arts in downtown’s Symphony Park has announced its summer lineup that begins in June, and it is star-studded and jam-packed with Tony Award winners, Grammy Award recipients and some of the most respected names in entertainment today. It also marks the return of one of Senior Editor John Katsilometes’ favorite former Las Vegans. Without further ado, here is the spectacular lineup: Idina Menzel, Reynolds Hall, June 10 at 7:30 p.m. Menzel achieved stardom ... Read more...
L.V. resident, music industry veteran Jean Bennett recalls Dick Clark
By Andrea Domanick Dick Clark passed away at 82 years old today, leaving the public with many memories of the TV icon: There’s Clark as the perennially boyish-looking host of “American Bandstand;” as the game show guru behind “Pyramid”; and as the familiar face who helped ring in the New Year, year after year. But few of us today remember Clark like Jean Bennett. The Las Vegas resident, who turns 89 on April 25, first met Clark in 1956 shortly ... Read more...
‘Fantasy’ creator Anita Mann’s memories of Davy Jones, Elvis, Lucy
By Anita Mann When Davy Jones of the Monkees passed away just over a month ago, my heart sank. He was a part of one of the most incredible chapters of my life, and he was such a sweetheart in work. When I was cast in the starring role of his video for “Cuddly Toy,” I was the envy of all of the girls in L.A. Every dancer wanted that gig! They needed a dancer who wouldn’t get nervous and ... Read more...
Photos: Fremont Street Experience pays tribute to Dick Clark
Updated at 11:04 p.m. By Andrea Domanick Following today’s news of the passing of legendary TV producer Dick Clark, Fremont Street Experience has announced that it will host a tribute in his memory tonight. The event will include a pictorial retrospective of the “American Bandstand” host’s life and career broadcast on the Viva Vision canopy screen. The retrospective will include photos and possibly filmed footage of Clark played in tandem with the “American Bandstand” theme song. Fremont Street Experience has ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Guy Laliberte’s $26 million poker contest is set for play
With an entry fee of $1 million, 30 of the world’s wealthiest poker players are set to compete for one of the largest prizes in poker history: $26 million. The winner will walk off with $12,266.668, and the remaining funds benefit Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberte’s water charity One Drop. Eighty days remain until the players sit down for three days of play July 1 as part of the 43rd Annual World Series of Poker at the Rio. However, ... Read more...
Trisha Yearwood’s series ‘Southern Kitchen’; Garth Brooks vs. scalpers
Even if country king Garth Brooks has weekend shows at the Wynn as a resident headliner, he will still watch wife Trisha Yearwood’s new Food Network series at home before his commuter jet flight from Oklahoma to Las Vegas. The Grammy-winning singer in her own right shows off her cooking chops in “Trisha’s Southern Kitchen” every Saturday morning. Her two cookbooks, in 2008 and 2010, both hit No. 1 on the New York Times bestseller lists. Viewers are right there ... Read more...
Photos: Rehearsals between traveling pay off for Gladys Knight on ‘DWTS’
Despite a week of arduous air travel, bus rides and different hotels for a string of cross-country concerts, legendary singer Gladys Knight and pro partner Tristan MacManus miraculously squeezed in rehearsals. It paid off Tuesday night when they were declared safe on “Dancing With the Stars” and live to dance for another week. In fact, our hometown Empress of Soul should feel right at home next week because it’s Motown Week on the hit ABC show, and she might even ... Read more...
Photos: Peep! Peep! ‘Peepshow’ celebrates 3rd anniversary
By Don Chareunsy The hit topless burlesque “Peepshow” celebrated its 3rd anniversary and more than 1,000 performances at Planet Hollywood on Monday night, and lead stars Cheaza, Josh Strickland and Holly Madison and the cast and crew were joined onstage after the milestone show by Jerry Mitchell, “Peepshow’s” creator and celebrated Broadway director and choreographer. Since “Peepshow’s” opening in 1999, there have been four Peep Divas (Mel B, Shoshana Bean, Aubrey O’Day and Cheaza) and two Bo Peeps (Kelly Monaco ... Read more...
Photos: Betty White inducted into NAB Hall of Fame in Las Vegas
By Don Chareunsy Beloved actress and TV legend Betty White was inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Broadcasting Hall of Fame in a ceremony this morning in the Paradise Ballroom at the Las Vegas Hotel. NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith presided over the ceremony. White’s Hollywood resume is vast, and she is widely known for her roles in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “The Golden Girls.” White, who turned 90 on Jan. 17, is the last surviving ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Misery for Garth Brooks, his fans at Calgary Stampede
Country king and Wynn resident headliner Garth Brooks goes to a lot of trouble to ensure that fans get reasonably priced tickets for his rare shows, and he does all he can to make certain that scalpers don’t outsmart promoters. But somehow when all of his ducats for the 100th anniversary of the Calgary Stampede this summer were purchased in a record 58 seconds, the box office bandits managed to get most of them. Hardly had the sale ended than ... Read more...
Photos: Gladys Knight in ‘DWTS’ hunt; Penn thriving on ‘Apprentice’
Las Vegas is represented by two headline performers on two reality TV shows right now, and so far both have dodged trouble to remain in their fights to win. It was a sexy and sassy evening of sambas, salsas and Argentine tangos on Monday night’s “Dancing With the Stars,” and hometown Empress of Soul Gladys Knight and pro partner Tristan MacManus scored sufficiently to stay out of the bottom slots. Rivals actress Melissa Gilbert with Maksim Chmerkovskiy (21 points) and ... Read more...
Day 3 at Coachella 2012: Hologram, Hives and Rihanna’s surprise
Editor’s Note: Check out the Las Vegas Sun version of this story for a Coachella 2012 photo gallery and more coverage. By Don Chareunsy Coachella went out with a bang Sunday (at least until next weekend) with spectacular weather and what was arguably the most solid day of performances of the three. Yes, there was a hologram (more on that below), but there was a lot more than that that made the day so memorable. Here’s the breakdown of Day ... Read more...
Photos: Duncan Sheik’s L.V. world is all about being ‘obnoxious’
By Don Chareunsy Singer-songwriter and composer Duncan Sheik is best known for his hit “Barely Breathing” and the Tony-, Grammy- and Olivier-winning “Spring Awakening” on Broadway, but what might be surprising is Sheik’s wit and charm onstage, both of which were on full display Sunday night in a tour kickoff with fellow singer-songwriter turned music-theater composer Suzanne Vega at Cabaret Jazz in the new Smith Center for the Performing Arts in downtown’s Symphony Park. Taking the stage in the brand-new, ... Read more...
Photos: The Shins at Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool, come rain or shine
By Jack Houston Neither rain nor unseasonably cool temperatures were enough to rattle fans of the Shins on Friday night. Those who braved the elements during the first stop on the indie rock band’s U.S. tour were rewarded with a stately, professional 85-minute performance of the band’s biggest hits and songs from their most recent album, “Port of Morrow.” It was 50 degrees when the band stepped onstage at the Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool shortly after 10 p.m., and the cranky ... Read more...
‘Peepshow’ celebrates 3rd anniversary at Planet Hollywood
Holly Madison — TV viewers know the blonde bombshell from “The Girls Next Door” and “Holly’s World” on E! Entertainment and as Playboy mogul Hugh Hefner’s ex — has become synonymous with the hit Strip topless show “Peepshow” at Planet Hollywood, partly because she is the first star from Hollywood, music and Broadway to continue with the extravaganza after an initial contract. Also partly because she happily goes topless in “Peepshow.” Madison going topless in “Peepshow” = a box-office bonanza, ... Read more...
National Association of Broadcasters draws stars, politicos, tech experts
It’s one of the largest conventions on our annual calendar, as 100,000 experts, celebrities and exhibitors from multimedia converge on Las Vegas today for the National Association of Broadcasters. It’s the ultimate marketplace for digital media content and entertainment delivered to new screens in new ways. From actress Betty White to Flamingo headliner Donny Osmond, it’s a star-studded affair — but also serious business, with 60 global delegations from as far afield as Vietnam, Ghana and Poland attending. For the ... Read more...
Photos: Grand opening of Vince Neil’s strip club Girls, Girls, Girls
By Don Chareunsy Motley Crue frontman and Las Vegas resident Vince Neil hosted a VIP grand-opening party Friday night to officially celebrate his new strip club Vince Neil’s Girls, Girls, Girls located across from the Orleans in the former Deja Vu, and contributing photographer Hew Burney was onsite for a photo gallery. Thanks also to Richard Corey for his video posted on YouTube. In previous interviews with Mr. Vegas DeLuxe Robin Leach, Neil has said that his Girls, Girls, Girls ... Read more...
Day 2 at Coachella 2012: Electric Daisy Coachella, full-frontal nudity
Editor’s Note: Check out the Las Vegas Sun version of this story for a Coachella 2012 photo gallery and more coverage. By Andrea Domanick Despite Day 1’s sobering temperatures, Coachella 2012 felt like it was in full swing Day 2 thanks to beautiful, clear skies and temperatures in the mid-70s that saw fans shedding the $55 hoodies purchased the day before from the merch booth. Despite the serene weather, the day was not without its spectacles; musically, Saturday was packed ... Read more...
Photos: Grand opening of ‘Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth’ at MGM
By Don Chareunsy The new one-man show “Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth — Live on Stage” celebrated its VIP grand opening at the Hollywood Theater at MGM Grand on Saturday night, and Hollywood, sports and Las Vegas glitterati were out in full force to support the boxing legend and Las Vegas resident. Tyson, wife Kiki Tyson (who served as producer and co-writer of the show), producer and creator Adam Steck and director and co-writer Randy Johnson welcomed, on the arrivals carpet ... Read more...
Mike Tyson pulls no punches, but show often fails to connect onstage
By John Katsilometes The expectations for Mike Tyson’s one-man show at MGM Grand’s Hollywood Theatre have been about evenly spliced: Tyson’s “Undisputed Truth” would either be an indisputably entertaining exercise in multimedia storytelling or a train wreck of mythic proportions. “Muted” or “measured” never entered the conversation. But that’s what the gala premiere of Tyson’s show produced Saturday night. A highly interesting, if long-running, monologue narrated by Tyson himself. For a man whose explosive, quick-strike knockouts were the hallmark of ... Read more...
Mike Tyson’s show weighs too heavily on losses, not enough on greatness
By Ron Sylvester Mike Tyson was known for fierce, lightning, knockout punches that ended a fight before it even started. So when opening night of his one-man show at MGM Grand paid so little attention to Tyson’s legacy as one of the greatest boxers ever, I was left wanting to remember more of why we should cheer for him. I walked out of the Hollywood Theater reminded of a concert by a legendary singer who did not perform his greatest ... Read more...
Day 1 at Coachella 2012: Rain, people falling, other surprises
Editor’s Note: Check out the Las Vegas Sun version of this story for a Coachella 2012 photo gallery and more coverage. By Andrea Domanick and Spencer Patterson Here’s what was in store on Day 1 of Weekend 1 at the 2012 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, Calif.: Cold-chella: After 12 years of sweltering heat and scantily clad attendees, it finally rained at Coachella. Kind of. Sporadic late-afternoon showers barely dampened the heads of festivalgoers, but winds and ... Read more...
Photos: ‘Lionel Richie & Friends’ on CBS; ‘DWTS’ live at Tropicana
It’s an embarrassment of entertainment riches on and off the Strip tonight, but also on the TV screen with “ACM Presents: Lionel Richie & Friends.” A squadron of superstars saluted Lionel in a special concert event recorded at MGM Grand Garde Arena two weeks ago, as part of the 2012 Academy of Country Music Awards, that airs on CBS tonight at 9 ET/PT. DVR it and then hit rewind and play — and do it often so you can party ... Read more...
Photos: Bon Iver’s tres bien winter continues at the Joint
By Brjden Crewe Bon Iver is having a pretty good winter, spring and run. Last year, the indie folk/alt-rock band saw its self-titled second studio album, “Bon Iver, Bon Iver,” garner critical acclaim, and the group walked away with Grammy Awards in February for Best New Artist and Best Alternative Music Album for “Bon Iver” squared. With the spotlight cast brightly on the musicians, Bon Iver performed in front of a sold-out crowd at the Joint in the Hard Rock ... Read more...
Part 2: Tyson’s ‘Undisputed Truth’: Drugs, hookers — and perseverance
In Part 1 of my interview with Mike Tyson posted Thursday, the boxing legend and Las Vegas resident talked about Robin Givens, Evander Holyfield and Cus D’Amato, among others. Here is Part 2 of our fascinating conversation on the day that “Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth — Live on Stage” debuts at the Hollywood Theater at MGM Grand and continues through Wednesday. Robin Leach: You had at least one horrible marriage. Mike Tyson: Big time. I had two horrible marriages. RL: ... Read more...
Celebrity preview: Vince Neil, Mike Tyson, ‘DWTS,’ Shins, Duncan Sheik
It’s a knockout entertainment weekend for Las Vegas, and not just because former world heavyweight boxing champion and Las Vegas resident Mike Tyson is fleet of foot at MGM Grand, where he won millions before losing all in a train-wreck life riddled with unimaginable controversies. It’s also a weekend in which Motley Crue rocker and Las Vegas resident Vince Neil officially unveils his new topless club Vince Neil’s Girls, Girls, Girls tonight promising dancing strippers and music unlike any other ... Read more...
Part 1: Tyson’s ‘Undisputed Truth’: ‘I’m happy telling the whole story’
A prescription for certain death: In your hand, an emptying bottle of premium cognac. In your arm, the steady drip of morphine. You’ve just taken cocaine to get high and swallowed Cialis pills readying for the arrival of no less than seven hookers. “That’s when I realized it wasn’t just demons — it was the devil himself,” Mike Tyson told me. “It was the lowest point of a very low life, but it was my own knockout punch to clean ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: ‘Pawn Stars’ a No. 1 hit in Britain; India signs on
It’s been a busy week in the pawnshop world, and reality TV star Rick “The Spotter” Harrison assures me that the reports of him breaking up with fiancee DeAnna Burditt are untrue. “The wedding is on for next May, although we do have to pick the specific date,” Rick told me upon returning to Las Vegas after a visit with her two daughters and her to watch “Dancing With the Stars” and to appear on Nickelodeon’s iCarly. “No sliming,” he ... Read more...
Tia Carrere on L.V. and foxtrot as ‘DWTS’ touches down at the Trop
By John Katsilometes If you had once danced the foxtrot on national TV, you might expect to remember doing it. But Tia Carrere, she doesn’t remember. “They told me I’m going to dance the foxtrot and that it should be easy because I danced it on the show,” says Carrere, one of the cast members of the stage version of “Dancing With the Stars: Live in Las Vegas” that begins a 12-week run at Tropicana Theater on Saturday night. “I ... Read more...
Photos: Playboy to Easter Bunny for Claire Sinclair at KISS Mini Golf
By Don Chareunsy It was one jam-packed Easter weekend for 2011 Playboy Playmate of the Year Claire Sinclair, whose Las Vegas visit included dining at STK in the Cosmopolitan with a $15,000 diamond-encrusted steak knife (all in a day); attending the world premiere of “Bettie Page Reveals All” at the Orleans during the 2012 Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend; and capping off the weekend with a round of putt-putt at the new KISS by Monster Mini Golf. Sinclair, who will ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Second magic film shoots scenes in Las Vegas
First it was Steve Carell and Jim Carrey in “Burt Wonderstone” filmed at Planet Hollywood and Bally’s. Now it’s Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher and Dave Franco at Aria filming scenes on the casino floor and at the main porte cochere for the upcoming “Now You See Me.” The action-thriller, which also filmed at Golden Gate on Tuesday, pits an elite FBI squad in a game of cat-and-mouse against “The Four Horsemen,” a super-team of the world’s greatest illusionists ... Read more...
Canadian electro-funk duo Chromeo wants to funk you up at Pure
By Andrea Domanick Canadian electro-funk duo Chromeo are bringing their bonafide lovin’ to the Strip on Friday as they kick off a monthly DJ residency at Pure in Caesars Palace. Members Dave 1 and P-Thugg formed the group as a hip-hop project while attending high school in Montreal, but the influence of favorites like Rick James and Parliament couldn’t be avoided; since then, they’ve been making crowds the world over get down to sleek, sexy tunes like “Bonafide Lovin’” and ... Read more...
Photos: Gladys Knight is safe on ‘DWTS’; Sherri Shepherd is out
It’s not all fun and laughter on ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” — it’s the TV show that packs in emotion, tears, heartbreak — and injury. So far, though, our hometown Empress of Soul Gladys Knight is soldiering on … bravo for her courage, hard-work ethic and no-complaint personality. Here’s a video of her tango with four familiar faces in the singing group as the cover band for Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Her pro partner Tristan MacManus commented afterward on his ... Read more...
Exclusive: Dita Von Teese’s burlesque tour a longtime dream come true
For the first time, striptease sensation Dita Von Teese has exclusively revealed secrets of her new touring burlesque show that will play the Strip for three nights next month as part of a two-year nationwide tour. The former Las Vegas dancer who has become one of America’s top burlesque authorities talked with me about the ambitious project. She’s first to say it is not her swan song because she has more pinup projects planned for the future. Dita has turned ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Ne-Yo to be inducted into Songwriters Hall of Fame
Singer-songwriter and hometown hero Ne-Yo will be the recipient of the Hal David Starlight Award to be presented at the 43rd Songwriters Hall of Fame Awards in New York City on June 14. The award created in 2004 was renamed in honor of the musician and longtime partner of Burt Bacharach for his avid support of young songwriters. Award recipients are gifted young songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry with their original songs. Ne-Yo joins ... Read more...
Photos: Rock night on ‘DWTS’ lands Gladys Knight at rock bottom
It will be up to her fans to save our hometown Empress of Soul Gladys Knight from elimination on ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” tonight, as pro partner Tristan MacManus and she scored only 20 points from the judges, placing her last among Season 14’s contestants. If her fans led by legendary rocker Little Richard vote in record numbers, it could save her from elimination. However, this is the week that the judges themselves make the final decision to prevent ... Read more...
Photos: Mark Salling of ‘Glee’ hosts at Liquid Pool Lounge at Aria
By Don Chareunsy Actor Mark Salling of Fox’s “Glee” hosted the daytime revelry at Liquid Pool Lounge in Aria dressed head to toe in black — a black tank top and black shorts, with sunglasses, after sporting a black muscle T on the arrivals carpet — on Saturday afternoon. Since it was the day before Easter, it was only fitting that TV’s Puck, showing off his athletic body, tan, guns and signature Mohawk, would have a one-on-one conversation with the ... Read more...
Photos: Roy cracks wise, Siegfried speaks of unbreakable bond at Mirage
By John Katsilometes He has never been a comic, at least by trade, but Roy Horn can always be counted on to be funny. That might be what is so remarkable about one half of the world’s most celebrated magic acts: Through his pain and physical restrictions, Roy always has a joke up his sleeve. “I’ll give you $5 if you make me look better than Siegfried,” Roy said this afternoon to photographers gathered at the Siegfried & Roy Secret ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Miss Nevada USA Jade Kelsall’s photos for Miss USA
She’s simply stunning, and with just a few weeks before 2012 Miss Nevada USA Jade Kelsall competes in Donald Trump’s 2012 Miss USA Pageant, Vegas DeLuxe has the first look at her official pageant photos. Lens master Fadil Berisha has made controversial headlines in past years for his sexy photos of the lingerie-clad princesses. But this year, he concentrated on elegance and high-fashion glamour. Jade flew to L.A. for her photo session, and the remainder of her portfolio will be ... Read more...
‘Bettie Page’ photos: Claire Sinclair, Melody Sweets, Tempest Storm
The pinup beauty who stole the show at the annual Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend wasn’t even there — except in spirit. And thanks to the world premiere of the documentary “Bettie Page Reveals All,” her images, photographs and videos were there, too. The debut of the film was the highlight of this year’s rockabilly festival at the Orleans, and it drew 2011 Playmate of the Year Claire Sinclair, burlesque legend and Las Vegas resident Tempest Storm, “Absinthe” star Melody ... Read more...
Luxor commemorates 100th anniversary of Titanic’s sinking
One hundred years ago, the ship that couldn’t sink sank. It’s the centennial anniversary of RMS Titanic’s ill-fated end on its debut transatlantic crossing. Before the Ship of Dreams set sail April 10 and crashed into an iceberg five days later in 1912, it set the standard for and defined luxury travel that we know today. The ship had extravagant amenities that we take for granted today: an elevator, a private library, a swimming pool, a squash court, cafes and ... Read more...
Star Surveillance: Lady A, Rimes, Keith, Richie, Garrett, Thicke
Little wonder with the 47th Academy of Country Music Awards stars in Las Vegas that the Nashville nomads partied aplenty. Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum and her husband Chris Tyrrell celebrated her birthday at “Le Reve — the Dream” at the Wynn and met the cast to pose for photographs. Nearby at Encore Theater, singers Zac Brown and Tony Orlando attended Garth Brooks’ headliner show. While actor husband Eddie Cibrian played golf at Shadow Creek as part of the 2012 ... Read more...
Photos: Laura Croft hops to it at Sexy Bunnies Bash at Crazy Horse III
By Don Chareunsy Nothing says Easter like a gentlemen’s club in Las Vegas, so “Holly’s World” starlet Laura Croft hopped over to Crazy Horse III to host the Sexy Bunnies Bash on Saturday night. The July 2008 Playboy Playmate donned a baby blue Betsey Johnson tulle mini-dress as she posed for pictures on the arrivals carpet, then her party posse and she walked to the VIP section, where Croft requested Three Olives Loopy, a Fruit Loops-flavored vodka, and Moet Chandon ... Read more...
Photos: Jenna Jameson toasts 38th birthday with Tito Ortiz at Tabu
By Don Chareunsy Former adult-film star Jenna Jameson celebrated her 38th birthday with baby daddy and UFC star Tito Ortiz at Tabu Ultra Lounge in MGM Grand on Saturday night. Jameson, an Adult Video News Award winner, entrepreneur and writer, arrived on the red carpet before midnight after dining at nearby Shibuya. The birthday girl was accompanied by a group of eight, including Ortiz. Jameson wore a figure-hugging pink dress, studded black heels and a sparkling silver clutch and happily ... Read more...
Photos: Holly Madison celebrates FHM feature at Chateau Nightclub
It was a hoppy Easter weekend as blonde bombshell Holly Madison celebrated her April 2012 FHM feature at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens at the Paris on Friday night. Before hosting at Chateau, the “Peepshow” at Planet Hollywood and “Holly’s World” star stopped by nearby Sugar Factory in the Paris for a few super-sweet treats, including an Easter Bunny loaded with jellybeans. Fans gathered as Holly walked the red carpet positively glowing in a curve-hugging, plum Dolce & Gabbana dress with ... Read more...
Celebrity preview: Jenna Jameson, Holly Madison, Laura Croft, Chris Isaak
With Easter egg hunts and family brunches, it’s a fairly subdued weekend, but just like the rabbits shaking their tails, we’ve got sexy ladies strutting their stuff and handsome men flexing their guns to keep us in shape. Additionally, Mirage headliner Terry Fator celebrates his 3rd anniversary at the Mirage and introduces Monty Carlo. Glamour girls Jenna Jameson, Holly Madison and Laura Croft vie for the spotlight at three parties, while hunks Mark Salling and four-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler ... Read more...
In ‘Reveals All,’ Bettie Page emerges from seclusion to unveil secret past
She was America’s original and naughtiest pinup queen. Bettie Page, with her saucy stockings and curvy corsets, became the veteran who enjoyed a 50-year career, even though she hid herself from view as a recluse the last 35 years of it. Her image remained in public view, though, as a cult figure with dozens of products featuring “the look.” Now the black-haired, banged bikini beauty who died in 2008 at age 85 is back to life in the new film ... Read more...
Electric Daisy Carnival announces lineup for 2012 L.V. festival
By Sarah Feldberg There are still two months until the Electric Daisy Carnival returns to Las Vegas Motor Speedway, but today the dance music festival feels much closer. Insomniac Events released the lineup for the 16th annual EDC, and, yeah, it’s a beast. The list (complete below) includes more than 100 DJs and performers — A-list names like David Guetta, Tiesto, Moby and Kaskade; European royalty like Armin van Buuren and Avicii; and Las Vegas regulars like Calvin Harris and ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Terry Fator’s anniversary; Jay Cutler; ‘Country Superstars’
Congratulations to our good friend Terry Fator, the Mirage headliner impressionist who celebrates his 3rd anniversary with a special show Sunday and unveils his newest dummy-doll Monty Carlo. For three years, Terry has entertained audiences without moving his lips and now plans even more laughs with Monty. Says Terry: “He’s a career lounge singer who never quite made it to the top. Monty drinks like Dean and swaggers like Frank; he is to the Rat Pack what Hoboken is to ... Read more...
A $65 buy-in for a $10 million top poker prize? Bet on it!
Poker legends, big-bucks businesspeople and philanthropists are joining forces to play in the highest-stakes poker game of all time, and you could get in on the action for $65 and walk away with an eight-figure payday. Dreamers from all over the world who don’t have $1 million to enter the Big One for One Drop from July 1-3 at the Rio have a shot to get in the field for $65 and win the projected $10-million-plus top prize. The game ... Read more...
New L.V. concerts: Jason Mraz, Bret Michaels, Vince Neil, 1980s stars
By Andrea Domanick With Las Vegas gearing up for summer, another slate of concerts fit for a variety of music tastes has been announced this week. From Vince Neil to Jason Mraz to Weird Al, Las Vegas music fans have a lot to look forward to in coming months. Additionally, Pear Jam frontman Eddie Vedder announced today the postponement of his upcoming solo dates at the Pearl in the Palms due to temporary nerve damage in his right arm. Those ... Read more...
Photos: Brooke Burke-Charvet at Gold Lounge; Tristan MacManus’ girl
If there’s an extra spring in the steps of Tristan MacManus, who is partnered with our hometown Empress of Soul Gladys Knight in Season 14 of “Dancing With the Stars,” it’s not just because Gladys has improved so much in the first three weeks of competition on the top-rated ABC show. It’s because he’s been dating Australian actress Tahyna Tozzi, who appeared in “X-Men: Wolverine” and the recent TV remake of “Charlie’s Angels.” Tahyna has met Gladys, and the two ... Read more...
J.Lo and Marc Anthony to reunite in May 26 concert at Mandalay Bay
Fifty talented unknowns from 21 countries will appear with a reunited Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony on May 26 at Mandalay Bay Events Center in a concert that is a celebration of Latin music and performance arts. It’s the culmination of the Fox series “Q’Viva! the Chosen,” where the two stars were joined by Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson — the Immortal World Tour” director Jamie King for a talent search. Marc and J.Lo split last year, ending her third ... Read more...
Counter Intelligence: Guy Savoy, Easter eggs, Planet Hollywood moves
After 18 years of operation, but with an expired lease, the restaurant Planet Hollywood is relocating upstairs from its current home to a new location on the third floor at Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. The new 9,200-square-foot venue in the space previously occupied by Boa Steakhouse and a Houdini magic store will feature a contemporary design, all-new movie memorabilia, two outdoor dual-level terraces overlooking the Strip and an all-new menu featuring California cuisine and all-American favorites. “It’s popularity spans ... Read more...
Photos: A sneak peek at Gordon Ramsay Steak at the Paris
Chef Gordon Ramsay will be flying in and out of Las Vegas the next four weeks readying his new $5 million steakhouse at the Paris. He’s already begun the menu food tastings and plate purchases with his staff here led by chef Kevin Hee, formerly with Michael Mina. I received a preview look at the sleek, silver-styled restaurant Monday with British traditional red, white and blue touches — right up to the ceiling. The innovative concept comes with a unique ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Work is underway for 2013 ACM Awards at MGM Grand
With only 363 days remaining, planning and pre-production has begun on next year’s Academy of Country Music Awards and the Week Vegas Goes Country. That’s two days after the curtain came down on Sunday’s giant ratings winner. “It takes a full year going into the next one,” an ACM exec told me. “It’s one of the largest logistical nightmares in the television year.” My esteemed colleague Senior Editor John Katsilometes has confirmed that the ACMs will remain here in 2013 ... Read more...
Photos: Gladys Knight lands in Bottom 3 on ‘DWTS,’ declared safe
It was a nail-biting final minutes, but hometown Empress of Soul Gladys Knight was voted safe to continue to next week on Tuesday night’s “Dancing With the Stars.” Actor and singer Jack Wagner and singer Gavin DeGraw were in the final faceoff, and it was the “General Hospital” heartthrob with partner Anna Trebunskaya who got the axe, while the “Not Over You” singer isn’t over Karina Smirnoff or the ABC juggernaut just yet. All had scored 24 points on Monday’s ... Read more...
Photos: 22-year-old skateboarder star Ryan Sheckler hosts at Wet Republic
By Don Chareunsy Imagine being 22 (again) and hosting a pool party in Las Vegas surrounded by bikini-clad beauties. Life was totally rough and exactly that for skateboarder star Ryan Sheckler, 22, as he hosted a party presented, appropriately, by Red Bull on Saturday afternoon at Wet Republic at MGM Grand. The young prodigy turned pro athlete arrived at the Las Vegas dayspot with 10 pals shortly after 1 p.m. After settling in a VIP bungalow, the San Clemente, Calif., ... Read more...
Photos: Dev dances in the dark in super-short shorts at Pure
By Don Chareunsy Singer and songwriter Dev celebrated her debut album “The Night the Sun Came Up” by hosting and performing at Pure in Caesars Palace on Saturday night. Arriving after midnight, California native Dev, full name Devin Star Tailes, posed for photographs on the red carpet in a sleeveless red floral top and daring, high-waisted super-short shorts and was joined by her personal DJ, Sour Milk. The tattooed singer partied with a group of eight friends at her VIP ... Read more...
Photos: Branford Marsalis at Cabaret Jazz at the Smith Center
Three-time Grammy Award winner Branford Marsalis performed an incredible concert Saturday night at Cabaret Jazz in the new Smith Center for the Performing Arts in downtown’s Symphony Park. Four master musicians each starred as solo experts, yet united in a fusion of joyful sound. The drummer, the pianist and the bass player were as remarkable as the saxophone star. It was a memorable Las Vegas night — intimate, warm and friendly. You felt as if you were onstage with them ... Read more...
Ne-Yo on his favorite L.V. vice, fashion sense and new album
By Andrea Domanick In honor of last weekend’s Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational at Shadow Creek Golf Course, R&B superstar Ne-Yo paid a visit to his hometown of Las Vegas to treat Jordan and his guests to a private performance Friday night. The singer is busy putting the finishing touches on his upcoming release, “The R.E.D. Album,” in Los Angeles, so he wasn’t able to stick around to hit the putting green. But maybe that was for the better. “My golf ... Read more...
Photos: Angel Porrino: From personal assistant to ‘Absinthe’ star
By Andrea Domanick It’s been quite a year and a half for “Absinthe” performer Angel Porrino. Eighteen months ago, you probably knew her as Holly Madison’s best friend andpersonal assistant in “Holly’s World” and stand-in as Bo Peep in “Peepshow.” But what was a fill-in gig soon led to a guest-starring role while Madison was away on vacation; not long after, Porrino was offered a solo act in “Absinthe,” which she started in April 2011 (the show at Caesars Palace ... Read more...
Photos: A day with the Gazillionaire, Penny Pibbets of ‘Absinthe’
By Andrea Domanick For a year — Sunday marked their 500th show — “Absinthe” stars the Gazillionaire and Penny Pibbets have been hosting the wildly popular, unapologetically raunchy adult circus at Caesars Palace. Onstage, Gaz performs as the show’s lascivious, excessively rich ringleader, the inept nymphomaniac Penny serving as his sidekick. But what are they like in their off-hours? We spent a day with them to find out. We meet up poolside at Caesars in the afternoon, where Gaz flags ... Read more...
Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club gets some love from comedians
By John Katsilometes This was Brad Garrett’s kind of scene. A comedy club bearing his name, packed with friends, fellow comics and the resort executives who have provided him a place to play at MGM Grand. The comic hosted an invitation-only VIP show last Thursday night to unveil Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club at Starlane Mall at MGM Grand. The comedy enclave sits in Starlane Mall, to be redubbed the MGM Underground, the entrance of which is just off the hotel’s ... Read more...
Star Surveillance: J.P. Gaultier, Mike Tyson, Seth Meyers, Tinie Tempah
The first quarter of 2012 is over, and Las Vegas continues to be the platinum playground where Hollywood, music and sports stars work, party and play. Andre Johnson of the Houston Texans and Santana Moss of the Washington Redskins checked out the Das EFX show at Lavo in the Palazzo. NFL Hall of Fame running back Marshall Faulk also partied at Lavo and sent a round of drinks to DJ Crooked. Scottish soccer manager and former star player Gordon David ... Read more...
Strip Scribbles: Vince Neil debuts video for strip club Girls, Girls, Girls
Here’s a first video look at Motley Crue frontman Vince Neil’s sassy strippers-dancers at his new strip club Vince Neil’s Girls, Girls, Girls that celebrates its official grand opening April 13 (a Friday, no less!): The rocker and Las Vegas resident, who sets off on a giant summer tour with KISS in July, filmed the commercial in which he humorously reveals that he’s an equal opportunity boss. Surrounded by scantily clad and sexy tattooed dancers, he promises that the venue, ... Read more...
ACM photos & videos: CBS ratings champ; awards back in L.V. in 2013-14
CBS swept the board and came oh-so-close to winning everything in Sunday night’s TV ratings battle. The network won the night with a 2.6 rating, defeating ABC’s 2.1, Fox’s 1.7 and NBC’s 1.6 in the key advertiser 18-to-49 demographic. Overall, CBS also won the night with a big audience lead, with about 13 million viewers tuned in for each of the 3 hours of the 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena and Mandalay Bay ... Read more...
Gladys Knight underdog on ‘DWTS’; Penn the front-runner on ‘Apprentice’
Hometown hero and Empress of Soul Gladys Knight had to rehearse over the weekend for tonight’s “Dancing With the Stars” while juggling two concert dates in Vancouver, B.C. By day, she was dancing with her pro partner Tristan MacManus, and by night she was onstage singing for her supper. Despite the grueling schedule, Gladys and Tristan say they are ready for tonight’s competition on ABC. They have worked out a foxtrot to showcase “Theme Night.” Tristan has choreographed a routine ... Read more...
KISS steals the 2012 ACM Awards arrivals spotlight at MGM Grand
By Don Chareunsy Rock and roll all night legends KISS arrived at the 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena this afternoon in a monster truck and full makeup, stealing the spotlight from the nominees, presenters and performers walking the arrivals carpet. And if it couldn’t get any better, it did, with entertainment legend and Las Vegas resident Wayne Newton posing for a photograph with Gene Simmons of KISS. Thanks to Erik Kabik for his ... Read more...
ACM photos: awards preview, Blake Shelton’s shootout; Eric Church
It’s superstar Sunday, and the kings and queens of country music get ready for the 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards just hours away. Despite it being April 1, there’s no joking. As Reba McEntire’s co-host Blake Shelton mused Saturday, “All of us take this very seriously. It’s a huge undertaking. It’s the most important weekend of the year for us.” However, I can’t believe for a moment that with comedy legend Steve Martin, rockers KISS and rapper LL ... Read more...
Photos: Fergie celebrates her 37th birthday at 1 OAK in the Mirage
By Don Chareunsy Grammy Award-winning singer Fergie, successful solo artist and vocalist with the Black Eyed Peas, celebrated her belated 37th birthday at the new 1 OAK in the Mirage on Friday night, and the sexy star was F-E-R-G-A-L-I-C-I-O-U-S with her long, wavy blonde locks and curve-hugging, floral-print blue dress. Fellow Grammy winner — and hometown hero — Ne-Yo was among the crowd at 1 0AK, where Fergie was presented with a three-tier birthday cake topped with a pink stiletto. ... Read more...
Star Surveillance: Jenny McCarthy, Ice-T, Coco, Frank Marino, 'Hangover'
Rapper and actor Ice-T and his “Peepshow” at Planet Hollywood star wife Coco Austin on Wednesday night watched Frank Marino’s “Divas” ...
‘Michael Jackson One’ is Cirque’s best and includes snow at Mandalay
Die-hard Michael Jackson fans flew in from as far away as Thailand and Japan to attend Thursday night’s first preview performance of Cirque ...
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