>>>news >>>news archive >>>January 2007

January 31, 2007 paula abdul fights back against drunk charges (NATIONALEDGER.COM)--If it is another season of American idol it is eighty million or so folks watching each week and a bunch of those questioning Paula Abdul and her behavior as she is judging the contestants. The accusations always fly - Paula is drunk, Paula is on something. So again Paula is answering the charges. It's not the first time. Just two years ago she said, "It was time to set the record straight. I want America to know that I have never been addicted to anything, no chemical dependency, nothing for recreational purposes," Abdul said in a 2005 interview with Entertainment Tonight, responding to rampant speculation about her behavior on the American Idol message boards. Here we go again. Star Magazine notes that 'Extra' sat down exclusively with Paula Abdul and she spoke out about the criticism and speculation around her odd behavior (that of course some attribute to either drugs or alcohol) in interviews and on her hit show American Idol. "I don't like to [drink alcohol]. I've never been drunk. I'm goofy enough, am I not?," she told the show. "I've been in the business 20 years. When have you seen me in any pictures partying? I'm too busy working!" But it wasn't all serious. When asked for what she looks for in a male suitor she said, "The opposite from Simon." You can catch the whole interview when it airs Feb. 1 on Extra. » Posted by Igor at 11:24 AM | Discuss courtney love to replace paula abdul on american idol? (ACTRESSARCHIVES.COM)--It's an early frontrunner for the most bizarre story of 2007, but reports circulated on Wednesday morning that rocker/actress Courtney Love may be replacing Paula Abdul on American Idol. Abdul has taken some criticism for her erratic behavior in interviews for the show and Love tells Us magazine that she's being considered as a judge on the show and the magazine speculates that it may be to replace Abdul with all of her recent headlines. Love herself has certainly dealt with her share of erratic behavior in her years as Kurt Cobain's wife, the lead singer of Hole, and the star of movies like The People vs. Larry Flynt. She has fought very public battles against addiction, but seems to have cleaned up recently and claims that she's ready for the public stage of American Idol. Courtney Love tells Us magazine's website that American Idol's executive producer Nigel Lythgoe called her office to inquire if she would sit in for Abdul on the show. "He called. He was wondering if I was interested. I thought it was kind of weird but brilliant." Courtney Love is currently in Los Angeles working on a solo album and didn't reveal any more details about the job or the call. For the record, she never said she was replacing Abdul and may simply be considered as a guest judge like Jewel in the first episode this season. However, Us magazine claims that they have an unnamed source who tells them that Lythgoe made the call because he was considering hiring Courtney Love to "replace Paula." In other Courtney Love news, the singer/actress appears to be back with Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan, who is also be working on the singer's new album while also reuniting his old hit band. Corgan and Love were together in the late '80s and were seen making out at the Freedom Writers premiere earlier this month, according to TMZ. Corgan and Love have fought viciously in the press over the years, especially after the two worked on the last Hole album Celebrity Skin. Rock Radio reports that Corgan and Love lived together for most of 2005 after Love was released from rehab and even had his own wing at her mansion. The Smashing Pumpkins were reunited last year after a six-year breakup and are working on new material, although only Corgan and drummer Jimmy Chamberlin are confirmed to participate. » Posted by Igor at 11:22 AM | Discuss January 30, 2007 paula on tv Click >>>here to see the list of new upcoming Paula's TV appearances. » Posted by Igor at 12:23 PM | Discuss new paula's "american idol" promo picture » Posted by Igor at 12:20 PM | Discuss paula-online.com updates Paula-Online.com has some new features: 1. Added new Guestbook - please let us know what you think about Paula-Online.com website by signing our guestbook. 2. Added new Chat Room - please chat with other Paula fans in real time by using Paula-Online.com chat room 3. Added new Vote In The Poll section - Be a part of Paula-Online polling question. Will Paula release new album this year? Yes or No? Upcoming update: Gallery » Posted by Igor at 12:18 PM | Discuss paula abdul blames odd interview on Gdlitch (AP)--"American Idol" judge Paula Abdul blamed an interview with a Seattle Fox affiliate in which she appeared disoriented or even intoxicated on a lack of sleep and technical problems. Abdul, in Las Vegas this weekend to accept a "Woman of the Year" award at a Nevada Ballet Theatre fundraiser, answered questions about the interview, which has made the rounds on YouTube.com and prompted speculation that she was drunk or on drugs. Abdul told reporters she woke up that day at 3:45 a.m. after going to sleep just before midnight. Technical foul-ups meant she heard questions from one station on an "electronic press tour" but her answers were directed to a different one, she said. The interviews in question were the last two of 30 she did back to back, she said. "That's very disorienting in itself because you can't see who you are talking to," she said, according to a blog by Robin Leach on AOL. "It wound up that San Francisco kept asking questions because they couldn't hear me but my answers were actually coming out in Seattle." "Fatigue and exhaustion just added to the whole thing looking so disoriented," she said. "I just can't explain it, but for me, no excuses and no apologies." "No alcohol and no drugs, absolutely no!" » Posted by Igor at 12:05 PM | Discuss paula abdul answers her 'idol' critics (ACCESSHOLLYWOOD)--Paula Abdul is addressing "American Idol" watchers who have criticized her speech patterns on the popular television series. The talent show judge blamed many of the strange phrases she's been caught uttering during the try-out rounds on a long-running game started by one of her fellow panelists. "I want to go on record," she told Access Hollywood in Las Vegas this past weekend where the Nevada Ballet honored her as Woman of the Year. "Guess who started the game? The most mature one -- the grandfather, Simon [Cowell]." Among the many comments that brought Abdul flack include what she thought was an ancient Chinese proverb: "the moth who finds the melon finds the corn flake always finds the melon," which she said during Season 5. In fact, the quote came from Cowell, who fed her the fake phrase as a joke, he's since said. Abdul told Access she's uttered such phrases under the British host's authority. "He says you're gonna get in trouble if you don't do it," she noted. "I got in big trouble for doing it because everyone alludes to 'What in the heck is she saying? She's not making sense!' and Simon's like ‘I know'." » Posted by Igor at 11:52 AM | Discuss January 29, 2007 'woman of the year' -- luxe life special report (VEGASPOPULAR.COM)-- It was an all-star 'American Idol' turnout when personality-plus 'American Idol' star Paul Abdul was awarded " Woman of the Year" at Nevada Ballet Theater's black-tie gala at the Wynn hotel. Her partner judges Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson and show-host Ryan Seacrest were front and center in support and offering congratulations on the honored award. There was even a slew of former 'AI' contestants including Chris Daughtry, Bucky Covington, Paris Bennett, Anthony Federov, Lisa Tucker, Mandisa and Melissa McGhee who performed at the ceremony and at the Tryst after-party. I got to chat with Paula at the pre-gala VIP reception held in the Cartier jewelry store at the Wynn hotel – and again throughout the evening's festivities backstage. She couldn't have been more pleasant and accommodating – a true professional dealing with a nonstop six-hour barrage of requests. She told me to mention that Douglas Hannent designed her stunning gown especially for her. Guests at Cartier ogled the $1-million set of a 57.2-carat diamond necklace with heart-shaped pendant ($670,000) along with matching 30-karat earrings ($220,000) and a matching white gold bracelet watch ($125,000) Paula spoke candidly to me for the first time about the nightmare she endured on a recent cross-country satellite TV tour. Pirated video of her bizarre morning show interview from a cramped tiny New York studio to a Seattle TV station surfaced on the Internet with outrageous false claims that she was so "disoriented that her behavior was blamed on alcohol and drug use." "The truth about the incident," said Paula, "is quite a boring story, not at all exciting. I went to bed just before midnight and had to get up at 3:45AM. I was in a real dark room, a cubicle. It's called an electronic press tour and this was the last two of 30 back-to-back interviews. That's very disorienting in itself because you can't see who you are talking to. You just stare into a camera with a small earpiece and you're sitting on a swivel chair not knowing who or where you are talking to. Never give a swivel chair to somebody who is super hyperactive because when things go wrong and you can't control them you just spin and spin and spin and wait until you're told it's safe to go. I didn't think I was on the air. They see me but I don't see them because there was no monitor for me to know where I was in the 30-cities. You hear all number of voices from all over the country in your ear and you don't really know when you are on the air somewhere or off the air in another city. So it wound-up that San Francisco kept asking questions because they couldn't hear me but my answers were actually coming out in Seattle so nothing made sense to either of them. It was technical difficulties of two stations being spliced together but me only hearing one of their questions but the answers going to another. No wonder it looked like we were all crazy. I was tired. I was exhausted so it made things worse. It had been a very long week and literally the three days before the 'American Idol' sixth season electronic promo-tour, I was going on less than four hours of sleep a night. Fatigue and exhaustion just added to the whole thing looking so disoriented. But no alcohol and no drugs, absolutely NO! It wasn't harder than any other time in my 20 years. Two cities spliced into 1 of my ears. My answers would have made sense if they came out to the person who asked them but they came out to somebody else somewhere else. I've done these tours for 20 years and never had a technical mess like this one. I had done three hours of them and they were all fine before. Other than telling you it's a very strange funny thing to sit alone in a small box talking to people you don't know and you can't see for over three hours, I just can't explain it but for me, no excuses and no apologies." "Once the subject of the slurred-snafu was finally cleared up we talked about the 'Woman of the Year' honor. Here's what she told Luxe Life: "I attended last year's wonderful event. It celebrates the art of dance -- ballet is the root of all dance. I studied it as a child. I thought afterward wouldn't it be nice if I was honored. And now wow this is like karma -- put it out there and wonderful things happen. I learned about it four months ago. I had a dream that I would one day be honored but never as 'Woman of the Year.' It's daunting, especially in Las Vegas, but I plan on making this my home away from home! I have a lot of wonderful things happening this year as a result of close to 20 years in showbiz, and this is the third time around at this career and a very exciting career it is and with so many wonderful projects out there. I have a new reality TV show, 'Hey Paula,' which we are actually shooting here tonight throughout the gala. It really is the story of my life: 'Hey! Hey, Paula! Hey, Paula! Hey! Come here, come here!' I'm everyone's friend and I'm the girl who is everyone's pal and the third time around for a major career gets back to reminding me an ordinary day for me is anything but. For me it's pretty extraordinary, call it choreographed chaos because I wear so many hats. I still do choreography, producing, teaching and running scholarship programs. I could go on and on. I am branding and licensing many different avenues that all cross-pollinate and that's just one day." Paula was honored at the weekend in Vegas by the Nevada Ballet Theater as its 'Woman of the Year' following in the footsteps of such dance legends as Ann-Margret, Chita Riviera, Debbie Reynolds, Carol Channing and even Celine Dion! She was escorted by Craig and Charlene Cavaleer, co-chairs of the event. He is the President of the Silverton Hotel here and has hired Paula to be their ambassador of entertainment. He commented, "We like to think of Paula in a long-term way, a long-term marriage to Silverton with a development plans that are three dimensional-not just as a choreographer, but as a producer of everything fun and expediential in Las Vegas now with things that are still to come I think we started on all that tonight!" Paula, who last year shelled out $10,000 during the auction to buy a little dog she wound up calling Charity, continued, "I highly recommend young folks going into dance as a career. I wouldn't be where I am today, wouldn't have the ability to stand up here and say my third time at super stardom if I didn't have the DNA of a dancer. Being a dancer has carried me through the most unbelievable times, beautiful times, and harder than hard times. It's given me the spirit of a warrior, a tenacious warrior who doesn't take no for an answer and believes in herself. There's nothing like being around the spirit and soul of a dancer, the coup de gras of everything there is to be celebrated. They are the hardest working most wonderful beings. If there were more dancers in the world, we'd have a much better happier place to live." Then it was time to talk about the new sixth season of 'American Idol.' She joked, "It's full of a lot of weirdos, but seriously, we do have enormous talent, different talent. Every season is different and unique and this year we have a lot of great unique characters. We keep raising the bar even in the sixth season and we've got four or five definite people you'll know will be in the finals, almost immediately and you'll get to see part of the molding of them as they get there." Paula, who is also starring and producing 'Bratz,' met up at the gala with former Supreme Mary Wilson (pictured above) and singer Robert Goulet (pictured below)with his wife, Vera. While simultaneously filming for her new reality show, Paula talked with some of the young ballerinas of the Nevada Ballet Theater. But the big surprise of the night to Paula and the party-goers was the unexpected arrival of her 'American Idol' co-stars, host Ryan Seacrest and fellow judges Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson. In-between jokes, sarcasm and funny one-liners, I got to chat with them backstage: "We're thrilled she's been named 'Woman of the Year' but frankly," said Simon, "I'm upset I was overlooked!" Ryan added: "We're really proud of her and we've got to support our own." Simon joked back: "With a lifetime achievement award you could argue her career is over. We don't know much about it -- we're in the dark -- but big congrats to our Paula. I hate ballet, but I love her. I actually have never been to a ballet. Paula suggested we dance on stage but no man can get this award, so we respectfully declined." Randy chimed in, "There should be a "Men Out of Control" award. We'd win that easily." The three guys, who skipped the dinner to enjoy in-room massages, laughed as I pointed out that they all have business interests in Vegas: Simon in Lake Las Vegas land, Randy in his new entertainment producing gig at the Hilton and Ryan with investments in various Sin City restaurants. Ryan commented: "I love this hotel, but all of my restaurants are in other hotels. We might live in LA, but we're in Vegas all of the time. Wait until you see the new TV series we're doing called 'Paradise City.' The kids in it are terrific." The trio just wouldn't stop with the wisecracks. Simon even chuckled with a prediction that our former 'Star Search' show would come back again. "'American Idol' is not at all like 'Star Search,'" he defended and asked, "You don't hate us do you? You do love us?" I agreed that my partner Al Masini, who created the original 'Star Search,' and I love 'em! Then Simon switched back to the subject at hand with tongue firmly planted in his cheek: "We're here to honor ballet. Now is the time to start going to ballet. My new year resolution is to support ballet, but the fact that Paula's got the award as well is a bonus for me, but quite coincidental. It was the year we decided to take up ballet study and she gets the award -- coincidence. Yes, we're taking up ballet together seriously." Randy was insistent, " I do love ballet. I love going to the theater. I see the 'Nutcracker' every Christmas. 'Nutcracker' started off as an opera." But Simon stopped him, "When we heard Nevada Ballet Theater was honoring Paula as "Woman of the Year," we all stopped everything we were doing and came to support her. We love you Paula. This is something deep. We get lots of nice things, but this is a great honor. Honest to God, we've just been discussing what we'll say and nobody has a clue. We do know it's a heavy award. It's a ballerina girl statue. Paula's been going through a hard time lately. She deserves our positive forces around her and we're here together to protect and serve our ballerina girl. If any of the 'Idol' cast is going to support ballet, it should be Paula. We love her. Paula we L-O-V-E you. There she is, Miss Ballerina Girl!" After she was presented with the statue, Paula held back emotional tears to say, "Thank you for my gifts, thank you for waiting with me for this wonderful night to come to a close." But Ryan joked out loud on his mic, "Paula, keep it tight. Brevity is the key tonight." She fired right back, "Guys, tonight it's my night! But I do want to say it's an honor to get "Woman of the Year." I really must have made an impression the first three weeks of 2007, but it sure takes pressure off February through December. On a serious note, it is with a full and grateful heart I stand before you on this special occasion. Overwhelmed by such a warm and generous turnout, this is pretty awesome. To be surrounded by such talented musicians, dancers and singers, it reminds me why I chose to become an entertainer. It began many years ago with a dream. Here I am all these incredible years later with this incredible opportunity to say a big thank you for honoring me tonight and seeing that dream come completely true." "I value my friendship with Craig and his wife Charlene (above with Paula and Nevada Ballet Co-Chair Wendy Plaster) at Silverton and I am looking forward to it being a lifetime of friendship. This happens once in a lifetime. Tonight's event wouldn't be so special without the tremendous talent that was up on the stage, now that's a gift -– the best gift ever because so many people came up to Vegas just to be with me. I must thank the 'American Idol' singers, the Paula Abdul dancers, and even the three bellmen who took my luggage to my room and the Wynn hotel limo driver. I had a relationship once with all of them and I deserve another award for that too!! Might as well go with it!" she laughed. And then the night became a mini-roast as she tackled her 'American Idol' colleagues, "Seriously though, I couldn't accept this award without mentioning three very special men. I have two on either side of me and one I literally look up to -- Ryan, because of his 6" platform heels. Just kidding, but nice to see you dressed up in your formal wear. You guys make me look really good. Every time Randy Jackson opens his mouth I sound like a Nobel Prize winner. Every time Simon opens his mouth, Borat looks like a Nobel Prize winner. I do love Simon almost as much as he does. Seriously he knows there's nothing I wouldn't do for him, after all I help him into his corset before every show. Speaking of which, Simon, when you wear those tight shirts, even my chest begins to hurt. Randy, what kind of brother is Randy? He's a beautiful, friendly soul happy to take you out to dinner -- happy to take himself out to dinner. Just kidding. There's nothing I wouldn't do for him either, but listen Randy, dog dude, the alphabet does carry on past the letter D! These 3 really are my big brothers. They are the best colleagues and friends I could hope for. Ask my therapists. They're here tonight --that table, that table and that big table. I would say this award is as much for them as it is for me, but that wouldn't be showbiz – its mine all mine and I love it!" "All kidding aside, I want to thank one person in particular, who I asked to come out and perform, Chris Daughtry. He's getting so busy as the #1 artist out there and he's doing it and living the 'American Idol' dream and making memories for himself as he starts a 50-city tour tomorrow. Chris, document everything and don't forget any of the stops along the way and don't forget Paula Abdul. I love you Chris. It means the world to me that you came tonight. And to those of you who have ever had the courage to actually go for it and try what any of these people do up here, it is exhilarating, it is scary, it is hard hard work but so worth it when you are able to touch one person along the way and make a difference. Thank you for letting me makes a difference." Then it was time to change into a less formal outfit for the after-party at Victor Drai's Tryst nightclub – which rocked on until this morning's early hours. As an exhausted Paula wrapped up the glittering night of all-star glamour she said: "It was a longtime dream that finally came true. I feel fabulous but never ever thought it would actually ever happen." » Posted by Igor at 11:57 AM | Discuss john katsilometes follows the train of cameras tailing paula abdul, nbt's woman of the year (LASVEGASSUN.COM)--In a collision of pop culture and high culture Saturday night at Wynn Las Vegas, it didn't matter that Paula Abdul could not remember, or was unable to readily recite, the name of the organization honoring her as Woman of the Year. "I was here last year and I thought, what a lovely event, and what a poignant, uh, honor to be able to have the Nevada City Ballet ... a company that expresses and celebrates the art of women's dance ... I thought, 'Wouldn't it be nice if I were honored (gasp!)? You put it out there and it happens," Abdul said during a dizzying news conference prior to the "Black and White Ball," the annual fundraiser for Nevada Ballet Theatre. Twice more the fluttering Abdul misstated the name of the 35-year-old dance troupe during interviews with syndicated entertainment programs, again calling it "Nevada City Ballet." But even with the verbal gaffes, the NBT says it is pleased that Abdul lent her undeniable star power to the gala (even as some guests, remembering Abdul's daffy behavior in recent TV interviews, were worried that she might not even show up). Taking part in a sort of show of force were Abdul's "American Idol" sidekicks Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell (who for the black-tie affair was clad in a gray long-sleeved T-shirt and jeans). Crews representing "Insider," "ET," "Inside Edition," "Access Hollywood," "60 Minutes" (tailing Cowell), and Bravo (for the "Hey Paula!" reality show) were on hand to track Abdul and friends. "We're really thrilled, really happy about how the whole event yet," NBT spokeswoman Jennifer Kratochwill said. "There was a lot more entertainment than in the past. It was a fuller program." Like, five hours of fullness, thanks in large part to performances by former "Idol" contestants Anthony Federov, Chris Daughtry, Mandisa Hundley, Melissa McGhee, Lisa Tucker, Jimmy Verraros and Paris Bennett. NBT members Rebecca Brimhall, Cathy Colbert, Jennifer Fesler, Maggie Hoy, Shay Lucey, Racheal Hummel-Nole, Zeb Nole and Yoomi Lee also performed three pieces from the NBT's upcoming season opening program, "Tchaikovsky To Gershwin," which is scheduled for Friday and Saturday at Artemus Ham Hall. There are no other NBT functions planned for Abdul, who has never attended a program by Southern Nevada's only professional ballet company. As is the case for all Women of the Year, Abdul was chosen in part for her contributions to the art of dance (she is an Emmy Award-winning choreographer, which was noted in the event program, and is also a former Laker Girl, which was not). She is also friends with Silverton executive Craig Cavileer and his wife, Charlene, who have been members of the NBT Board of Directors for five years and were the honorary chairs for Saturday's gala. Abdul has a consulting role with the entertainment venues at the Silverton, a position handy to have once the "Idol" phenomenon plays out - if it ever does. » Posted by Igor at 11:26 AM | Discuss abdul named 'woman of the year' (FOX28.COM)--Paula Abdul is the belle of the "Black and White Ball" in Las Vegas this weekend. The "American Idol" judge appeared with Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Ryan Seacrest at the Las Vegas Wynn Saturday. The Nevada ballet theater dubbed Abdul 'Woman of the Year' for her dedication to dance and music. Abdul says: "I don't think I could ever be where I am today, I don't think I'd ever have the ability to stand up here and talk about the fact that this is my third time at stardom, at superstardom, if I didn't have the DNA of a dancer." Abdul says: "I'm really excited that my partners in crime came out to celebrate this with me and it shows me that they are my brothers, in good and bad." "Idol" finalist Chris Daughtry was also there to celebrate as Abdul received her award. Daughtry says: "I know how happy she must be and that's just awesome you know to get recognized for something like that has gotta feel good and I think it's great... I'm proud of her." And, even Simon had something nice to say, sort of. Daughtry sang several songs for Paula before leaving to prepare for his cross-country tour. Other performers sang some of Paula's hit songs, and dancers showed off some of Paula's signature choreographed routines. Here more pictures of Paula from event: >>>Picture 1 >>>Picture 2 >>>Picture 3 » Posted by Igor at 11:21 AM | Discuss January 28, 2007 paula abdul 'woman of the year' first look photos >>>Picture 1 Here are Luxe Life's hot-off-the-digital-presses first teaser photos of Paula Abdul's black tie gala at the Wynn given Saturday where the Nevada Ballet Theater honored her as 'Woman of the Year.' Pictured above with Silverton President Craig Cavaleer and his wife Christine. >>>Picture 2 >>>Picture 3 » Posted by Igor at 2:37 PM | Discuss January 27, 2007 paula abdul is woman of the year "Paula is a definite yes and has never been a maybe," Cavileer said. "I know she had a tough week in the press, but what was not covered was the real story and that includes last week's announcement of her Bravo TV reality show 'Hey Paula' and her role as executive producer and starring role in the 'Bratz' movie. She was also honored in New York last week by 'Project Runway.' What the deal was with the incredible round of early morning talk shows is beyond us all, but I can tell you that I know her well and it was not alcohol related. I can only assume it was fatigue and exhaustion from only a few hours sleep over a very hectic week-long trip." Paula, who is known to only take pain medication for her numerous injuries sustained in her lifelong dance career, hit the headlines and uncut video blogs for "slurring her speech" in a Seattle TV interview. I expect she'll have to "fess up" to exactly what went wrong when she does a 15-minute press conference at 7PM tomorrow, although I'm going to chat to her earlier at the VIP reception in Cartier! But I know in 1995 she was injured in both a plane crash and a car crash, when she was hit by a drunk driver and broke three neck discs and during a six year "absence" underwent 14 cervical spine surgeries, became paralyzed, got divorced and couldn't speak for a while. It's believed she still takes strong pain doctor-prescribed pain medication which would obviously affect her if she had little to eat and a lack of sleep for a 4AM satellite media tour. A silent auction and thingytail party will proceed the 7:45PM dinner and then at 8:10PM Craig will escort her in for the official welcome. At 10PM she'll get the award and then an entertainment show featuring several 'American Idol' surprises. It's still touch-and-go if co-judges, the recently waxed Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson will turn up. Rita Rudner, last year's recipient, hopes to get there right after her Harrah's headlining show and organizers are hoping Tony Curtis (pictured right with Rita) will be sufficiently recovered from his recent illness to attend with friends Steve and Elaine Wynn and singer Robert Goulet and wife, Vera. Paula is stepping into some pretty impressive footsteps as past winners of the prestigious award have included Carol Channing, Debbie Reynolds, Ann-Margret, Chita Rivera and Celine Dion. Craig, who's lovely wife Charlene is his co-chair of the Ball, added: "Paula is fully committed to our fundraiser. We are looking forward to a fun night with many celebrity special guests and several past 'American Idol' singers. There's a great after party planned at Tryst with Victor Drai." And Luxe Life will have full coverage right here on Monday morning! » Posted by Igor at 4:24 PM | Discuss January 26, 2007 paula: i've never been drunk American Idol star Paula Abdul has hit back at reports she was intoxicated during a recent TV interview - stating she has never been drunk in her life. The STRAIGHT UP singer behaved oddly during live regional interviews in America to promote the hit talent show earlier this month (JAN07). She has since blamed a technical glitch for her strange performance, which left her slurring her words. And now the Idol judge insists she's always sober. She says, "I've never been drunk in my whole life." » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss paula abdul blames drunk rumors on simon cowell By Staff 'American Idol' judge Paula Abdul has blamed Simon Cowell for rumors that she is an alcoholic. Paula, who claims to have never been drunk in her life, says Simon started all of the drinking rumors with the "moth, the melon, and the won-ton". The 'Idol' judge was stopped by the paparazzi outside a Beverly Hills hair salon with her chihuahua when X17 reporters began asking her questions. Paula explained that drinking has "never been her thing". She also took the time to speak to her fans directly to let them know how much she loved them. What's peculiar is that Paula talked to the paparazzi for several minutes - sort of the way an intoxicated person would. I suppose we'll have to take her word for it either way, but wow that girl can talk! » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss January 23, 2007 defense of animals Paula Abdul has signed on to host a benefit concert for In Defense of Animals. The event will mark the launch of IDA's Disaster Relief Fund, which will aid animals still affected by Hurricane Katrina, as well as help animals in future disasters, according to a press release. Among the artists scheduled to perform are Chuck Negron (Three Dog Night), Howard Scott (War), Robbie Dupree, Lester Chambers (The Chambers Brothers), Stephen Bishop, Joey Gian, E.G. Daily, Keaton Simons, Amana Melome, Justin Hopkins, Steve Ferrone, Alphonso Johnson, Peter Wolf, Jeff Pevar (CPR), Steve Postell, Jeff Levine, Jaared, Morris Pleasure, John Leftwich, Seleno Clarke and Paul Peress. Additional details about the show, which is set for Feb. 17 at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, are available at the event's website. » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss paula abdul explains her strange behavior After reports of displaying strange behavior during interviews, American Idol judge and former pop diva Paula Abdul has come forward to set the record straight, claiming that she is perfectly fine and wasn't under the influence of drugs or alcohol during several interviews. The New York Times reports that during a recent panel discussion with television journalists on Saturday in Pasadena, Paula Abdul addressed questions surrounding her strange interview related behavior while promoting American Idol, "I’ve never been drunk. I’m not under the influence of anything." Paula went on to state that her time as an American Idol judge has never been questioned, "The first five years no one said anything about how I behaved or how I talked." Apparently, the rumors about Paula Abdul began after she made strange comments while on the show last year, including her remarks made last March when asked about a contestant's elimination, "Simon says because one of them ate pizza and the other one ate salad." On the same program, she went on to completely mix up her words when trying to repeat a proverb about a moth and a melon, which only added more to the gossip of substance abuse. The New York Times also points to an interview that Paula did this month with a Seattle TV station in which she seemed to be answering different questions than the ones being asked. Abdul easily explained that it was just a mix up in the audio feed, because Paula was getting questions from two separate stations, "That was a mistake I had nothing to do with. I didn’t know I had two studios in my ear. I wish it were a better story, but that’s it." In another attempt to explain her erratic behavior, Paula Abdul told the journalists in attendance that it was her nature to make fun of situations that cause her stress, such as appearing on live television. "I’m doing my job and having fun. Although I might not take myself seriously, there are young girls watching me, and I know I’m a role model. I’ve been a teacher, and the fact that some of them would look up to me and want to be the next choreographer or the next singer, I would not violate that trust." As E Online reveals, Paula obviously forgets that she already defended herself against the same rumors during the show's fourth season when Abdul admitted to having a rare neurological disorder that sometimes induced strange side effects. In a 2005 interview with Entertainment Tonight, Paula was quoted to say, "It was time to set the record straight. I want America to know that I have never been addicted to anything, no chemical dependency, nothing for recreational purposes." As American Idol heads into its sixth season, critics have come out swinging and not just about Paula Abdul's behavior since the judges appear to be the harshest they've ever been. According to E Online, even talk show host Rosie O'Donnell had something to say about the overly critical comments made by judges about of this year's contestants who often target appearance instead of their ability to sing, "Isn't that what America thinks is entertainment? To make fun of someone's physical appearance and then when they leave the room laugh hysterically at them -three millionaires, one probably intoxicated." When asked at the panel discussion in Pasadena about the increase in harsh words in the show’s sixth seaon, Simon Cowell responded by saying that anyone who auditions for a talent contest should be ready for criticism, "If you don't want to hear that, don't show up." The premiere of the sixth season of American Idol aired last Tuesday on January 16 to an audience of 37.7 million, topping out at 41 million during the last half hour. From January 16 to February 7, the audition process will take place with celebrity guest judges consisting of Olivia Newton-John, Carole Bayer Sager and Jewel. The Hollywood portion of the show will take place on February 13 and 14, 2007. » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss January 18, 2007 rosie's latest target: paula abdul (ABCNews)--Rosie O'Donnell is one of the 37 million TV viewers watching "American Idol," but don't count her among those who liked what they saw. For the second day in a row, "The View" co-host suggested Paula Abdul was drinking during the show and lashed out at the show for making fun of the people auditioning. O'Donnell and her co-hosts played a clip from Wednesday night's "Idol," in which a contestant, following an off-key audition, was roundly mocked and rejected by the judges. "That's compassion for you," O'Donnell said. "Isn't that what America thinks is entertainment, to make fun of someone's physical appearance? And then, when they leave the room, laugh hysterically at them — three millionaires, one probably intoxicated." O'Donnell had joked about Abdul's demeanor a day earlier. "Paula was very thirsty last night," she said. "That girl was sipping Coke every shot. And toward the end of the evening, one eye was wandering." Spokesman: Abdul 'Never Drinks' Abdul's spokesman, Jeff Ballard, denied his client had a drinking problem last week, after online video emerged of Abdul slurring her speech and acting strangely while promoting "American Idol" in a string of satellite interviews. Ballard said Abdul was simply fatigued last Thursday from the intense publicity campaign for the sixth season. "She was exhausted," Ballard told Reuters. "This was at the end of three days of press interviews and appearances, and she has had cameras following her around for a reality TV show too." Ballard was referring to a new documentary series now in production about the star's life. "She was sitting in a room with just a camera and a mic on, and the controllers dropped the sound twice, which is why she rolled her eyes." The 44-year-old Abdul canceled all media interviews the following day, saying that she had a sore throat after sitting in the chilly studio Thursday. "She never drinks," Ballard said. "I have known Paula Abdul since she was 13, and I have never seen her drink ever in my life. … And no, she is not on any kind of medication." » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss January 15, 2007 paula abdul cancels appearances after slurring video Singer-turned-"American Idol" judge Paula Abdul called off all her interviews Friday after clips of an earlier TV appearance appeared to show her drunk. The video -- in which Abdul slurs and bizarrely gesticulates -- emerged on YouTube on Thursday, prompting speculation alcohol or medication were to blame. She subsequently abandoned media engagements scheduled for Friday. However, Abdul's spokesman Jeff Ballard insists tiredness and a minor throat infection, not inebriation, were the causes of the cancellations and earlier odd behavior. He says, "She was exhausted. This was at the end of three days of press (interviews and appearances), and she has had cameras following her around for a reality TV show too. "She was sitting in a room with just a camera and a mic on, and the controllers dropped the sound twice, which is why she rolled her eyes. "She never drinks. I have known Paula Abdul since she was 13, and I have never seen her drink ever in my life. And no, she is not on any kind of medication. She was a little tired." In 2005 Abdul revealed she suffers from a neurological disorder that causes chronic pain and requires a weekly injection of an anti-inflammatory drug. » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss January 13, 2007 paula kooky in clips 'American Idol' judge's slurry, blurry TV interview blamed on tiredness, and becomes a huge hit on Youtube BY RICHARD HUFF DAILY NEWS TV EDITOR "American Idol" fans chuckled and cringed yesterday as a clip of Paula Abdul behaving bizarrely during a TV interview burned up the Internet. The perky former pop princess looked confused and slurred some words while promoting "Idol" during a rambling interview Thursday with a Seattle TV station. In it, the hosts sought Abdul's thoughts on the coming season, which starts Tuesday at 8 p.m. "How about a lot of you coming in," said Abdul, 44. "It's a wild party where you are." The clip had been viewed on Youtube.com more than 21,800 times by midafternoon yesterday. Abdul's publicist, Jeff Ballard, blamed the odd interview on some technical glitches. "They dropped the sound twice. It was confusing to her. She heard a lot of screaming in her ear," he said. "It's much ado about nothing." He added that the entertainer was worn out from shooting more than 25 short back-to-back interviews with TV stations all over the U.S. "She was tired, but she was certainly fine," Ballard said. "You get tired after doing three hours of those [interviews]." The clip, however, no doubt will raise questions about Abdul's on-air behavior, which has dogged her in recent years. In 2005, former contestant Corey Clark said he had an affair with Abdul during the show, which she denied. An investigation by Fox officials led to changes in the level of contact judges have with contestants. The interview clip hit the Internet the same day that Bravo announced it would air "Hey Paula," a series following the behind-the-scenes life of Abdul, later this year. "It's a hectic time in my life right now with several projects in television, film and fashion," Abdul said in a statement announcing the show. "I'm excited to open the doors to Bravo and have all my fans see the other sides to me, beyond what they see on 'American Idol.'" » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss January 12, 2007 the reality of paula abdul Eighties pop star-turned-American idol judge Paula Abdul is set to become a reality TV queen in her own right after landing a deal to put her life on television. The former dancer has agreed a deal with bosses at US TV network Bravo to turn her “hectic” life into a new reality series. The unnamed show will focus on Abdul’s work on American Idol as well as her private life and her new role as executive producer of new film Bratz: The Movie - based on the popular dolls for kids. “I’m excited to open the doors to Bravo and have all my fans see the other sides to me, beyond what they see on American Idol,” she says. » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss paula abdul to star in new reality series "hey paula" Bravo announced a new docu-series following the unique and multi-faceted Paula Abdul, "Hey Paula!" (working title). The series will provide a candid real look at the "American Idol" judge, pop star, choreographer and multi-platinum artist, as she takes two steps forward, and two steps back into the spotlight, giving an inside perspective on her professional and personal life. The series is produced by Scott Sternberg Productions for Bravo and will debut later this year. The announcement was made today by Lauren Zalaznick, President, Bravo. » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss paula's on... tv Paula Abdul's press tour to promote the new season of "American Idol" spun out of control today when she landed in the Pacific Northwest. Paula's curious "appearance" on Seattle's Q13 FOX Morning News took a fast nose dive as the pint-sized Idol judge slurred and giggled her way through the interview. Anchors Lily Jang and Carmen Ainsworth kept it together as Abdul bobbed and weaved for the camera. For what it's worth, Paula's rep tells TMZ that it is "much ado about nothing." He says the station had "technical problems with the satellite and her sound was dropped not once but twice. Paula was in a small room by herself with only a cameraman. Paula was distracted and confused by the station dropping the sound. She did not know what was going on." » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss January 11, 2007 paula abdul signs on for fashion doll feature film Straight Up singer and American Idol judge Paula Abdul is moving into feature films and will star in and produce a movie based on the popular Bratz line of fashion dolls. Abdul will play a major character in the live action film Bratz: The Movie and will serve as executive producer. She will also be involved in the film's casting, music, choreography and fashion. The film will follow four teenage girls from diverse backgrounds who long to be themselves and not fall victims to high school cliques. The movie will begin shooting next month (FEB07) and is scheduled for release in August (07). » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss paula: just one of the bratz Paula Abdul is joining the Bratz pack. The American Idol judge has signed on to executive produce and star in a live-action feature film based on the sassy line of dolls with big heads and twiggy bodies. Spider-Man producer Avi Arad and Raise Your Voice director Sean McNamara are also attached to the Lionsgate film, which is scheduled for an August release. According to the studio, the movie will tell the story of four high school girls based on the original four Bratz dolls—Jasmin, Cloe, Sasha and Jade—who encompass a range of socially and economically diverse backgrounds. After starting out as members of separate cliques of the sort typically found at high schools, the girls realize that if they band together as Bratz, their lives will be more fulfilling. Abdul's exact role in Bratz: The Movie remains unknown. In addition to starring, she will also advise on music, choreography and fashion for the film, producers said Wednesday. "I am extremely excited about working on this film, which incorporates and celebrates so many of my passions, from music, dance and choreography to fashion and design," Abdul said in a statement. "As a brand, Bratz encourages young girls to follow their dreams and express themselves….As far as I'm concerned, it's a message that can't be repeated enough." Abdul has previously worked as a choreographer on films including Coming to America, American Beauty and Jerry Maguire. She also appeared as an uncredited backup dancer in 1987's Can't Buy Me Love. "We are overjoyed that Paula Abdul is bringing her tremendous talent to the creative team of Bratz: The Movie," the film's producers said in a statement. "Paula's expertise in music, dance and fashion will be invaluable in creating the Bratz universe onscreen." Since they were introduced in 2001, the wildly popular Bratz have been giving Barbie a run for her money, with global sales reaching $2 billion in 2005, or about 40 percent of the fashion doll market. Barbie sales remained higher at an estimated $3 billion, but declined almost 13 percent. Unhappy with the competition, Barbie's parent company Mattel has sued Bratz maker MGA Entertainment, alleging that it owns the rights to the dolls because they were conceived by a former Mattel employee while he was still working at the company. According to MGA, the suit has no merit. In addition to her Bratz responsibilities, Abdul will also be dealing with brats of a different variety when the sixth season of American Idol kicks off on Tuesday. On top of that, she will be the focus of a new Bravo reality show called Hey Paula!, which will provide a behind-the-scenes look at her work as both Idol judge and Bratz producer, as well as into her personal life. "It's a hectic time in my life right now with several projects in television, film and fashion," Abdul said in a statement Friday. "I'm excited to open the doors to Bravo and have all my fans see the other sides to me, beyond what they see on American Idol." » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss January 10, 2007 simon saved me Paula Abdul says that she might have been fired from "American Idol" if Simon Cowell hadn't come to her rescue. In today's New York Post, Paula says that when allegations surfaced that she'd had an inappropriate affair with Corey Clark during "Idol's" second season, it was Cowell who ultimately stepped up for her. "He was extremely distraught and protective and supportive of me when that happened," says Abdul. "There's the times when he's like a big brother – or a lover." Of course, as "Idol" watchers know well, Paula also tells the Post that it's not all wine and roses with Cowell: "When he's just annoyed, I get the brunt of it." » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss January 6, 2007 emilio estevez avoids paula abdul on american idol Actor/filmmaker Emilio Estevez refuses to watch American Idol, because he finds it painful to see ex-wife Paula Abdul judge the reality show. The Bobby director and Abdul divorced in 1994 after two years of marriage, and Estevez, who is now dating Sonja Magdevski, still finds it uncomfortable when he comes across his former spouse. He says, "We haven't stayed in touch. I saw her once on American Idol and haven't watched it since. "How do I feel when I see her? I feel strange. It put me off marriage for a time." » Posted by Igor at 12:00 AM | Discuss