Biggest Celebrity Money Issues (so Far) in 2008

Money. No matter how much you have, you always want more. While money is an important asset for anyone to own to have a comfortable live, it can just as easily turn around and cause nothing but trouble. So far 2008 has seen its fair share of celebrity money issues. From tax evasion and laundering to incomplete wills, we've seen that while money can't buy happiness, it can certainly cause headaches.

How (not) to evade taxes

Evading taxes is no new feat for those with money. Whether it's athletes forgetting that they have to pay taxes on bonuses, or reality television winners forgetting to pay taxes on their $1 million prize, governments keep a close eye on celebrity tax returns and bank accounts in order to make sure they get every penny they can.

In late 2006, the United States government charged superstar actor Wesley Snipes with tax fraud and evasion of taxes-charges which could have resulted in 16 years behind bars. Thankfully for Wesley the charges of fraud were dropped, leaving only tax evasion charges. According to reports and the United States government, Snipes failed to pay any taxes on money earned from the two Blade sequels. Whoops. The willful non-payment earned Snipes a 36 month sentence in the slammer, which lasted for about a week before a judge gave Snipes the okay to head to London and Bangkok to film some movies to help pay his back taxes off.

"That's not tax evasion. Now that's tax evasion!"

Onetime "World's Most Famous Australian" Paul Hogan has also been in trouble for evading taxes this year. Unlike Wesley, he managed to evade the tax evasion charges (for now, at least). The actor, currently living in the US, has a warrant for his arrest back home in Australia. That doesn't worry Crocodile Dundee, though. "I'll be arrested the minute I land on the shore, of course, but I have a gun; so be warned,'' he joked.

Heeeeeeere's a foreclosure on a celebrity's home! Er, Johnny!

Ed McMahon, comedy legend and sidekick for more than three decades to the incomparable Johnny Carson, has been having trouble with his finances since the early part of this century. With numerous divorces and other settlements as well as health issues preventing him from working, the McMahon fortune (which has falsely been listed as over $200 million in the 90s; Ed never had near that amount) has dwindled, resulting in television's most prominent sidekick struggling to keep his home. In June of this year Ed appeared on Larry King, telling his longtime friend he was still more than half a million behind his mortgage payments, and perilously close to losing his home in Beverly Hills.

Why wait until old age to go broke?

With all of the cautious tales of celebrities going broke and losing their homes, you would think the younger generation would take notice, right? Wrong. Late last year, Ed McMahon's neighbor and Star Search discoverey Britney Spears was reported to have been spending nearly 100% of her income each month, without putting any in savings for her or her children. That alone would be more than enough for Britney to make the cut, but it gets worse for the former Mouseketeer. Due to her rather...lucrative spending, and mental health problems a court assigned her father Jamie, as a conservator (at his behest, of course) giving him full financial control to help get her finances back on track. The result so far in 2008? He's already sold several of her more prized vehicles, and soon he'll be putting her studio home on the market. Maybe that will teach her to better manage her fortune.

When boyfriends go bad

Anne Hathaway made international news this year, but not for what she did-rather who. Her boyfriend of three years--29-year-old Italian businessman Raffaello Follieri-was arrested for allegedly conning a group of real estate investors by posing as an agent of the Vatican, and then falsely promising them he could get them Catholic land cheap. Obviously that was a lie, and instead Raffaello lived it up in Manhattan, raking in over $6 million in fraudulent money. Bail for Follieri was set at a stiff $21 million due to his likelihood to flee home to Italy if he got out from behind bars.

To her credit, Anne Hathaway showed that the class she's displayed for years isn't just an act, as friends are telling reporters she cooperated with the FBI during their entire investigation. So if you're a conman with a chance to date Miss Hathaway, remember: don't!

About time someone got arrested for boy-bands

The man responsible for unleashing the Backstreet Boys and NSYNC on the world-Lou Pearlman-was arrested for lying to financers and cheating investors out of $300 million. (Not, as we had originally hoped, for making the BSB and NSYNC famous.) In an unusual deal, the judge sentenced the 53-year-old music mogul to 300 months in prison, with the stipulation that he can reduce a month of his sentence for every million he pays back to investors. Now we just need to see if any of the still-successful members of the boy-band era will be willing to help their former manager out. On second though, we're pretty sure all of them except Justin Timberlake could use some money themselves.

Not a joking matter

The final on our list of Biggest Celebrity Money Issues (so far) in 2008 is a sad story, and a somber reminder to all of us to not procrastinate on the important things. Months ago, actor Heath Ledger passed away after completing filming of The Dark Knight. It was learned a short while ago that before passing away, Ledger hadn't updated his will since 2003-in other words, since before his daughter was born. What this means is that pending a hearing or action by whatever state laws his will is under jurisdiction of, Ledger's young daughter has no right to inherent any part of her father's money. Remember, folks: don't keep putting things like that off, because you never know when it will be needed.

Author: Barry Trute
Published on: http://www.hotmommagossip.com

Star Trek Celebration In Hollywood Salutes The Women Of Trek November 14

We were told that Star Trek would let us "boldly go where no man has gone before."

But there were women who went into the unknown, too.

These are the women who traipsed among the stars.

Nichelle Nichols was one of the first. Playing Communications Officer Lt. Uhura on the Original Series, she showed women and racial minorities that there was a future for us. Nichols thought about leaving the show after the first series because her role wasn't very substantial but after talking to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., she changed her mind. He told her that people needed to see a Black Woman when they envisioned the future.

Nichol's role in space wasn't over with the cancellation of the show. She has remained active with NASA, helping to recruit women and minorities to the space agency.

On the original pilot for Star Trek, Majel Barrett played Captain Pike's Executive Officer, a position NBC executives in 1966 vetoed. Barrett was recast as Nurse Chapel in the original series and went on to become the only actor to have a role of some kind in every single Star Trek series.

On The Next Generation, there were two strong women who came to embody the series. While they were still in support roles, Gates McFadden as Doctor Beverly Crusher and Marina Siritis as Counselor Deanna Troi were active participants in the series. Dr. Crusher was gentle. Counselor Troi was insightful.

By the time Deep Space Nine rolled around, it was time to give women a leadership role. Nana Visitor played the prickly Kira Nerys. No longer were women always sweet, all the time, Visitor had a more complex personality.

And then came Voyager. Women made up a large portion of the cast starting with Captain Kathryn Janeway played by Katherine Mulgrew, was a take charge, no nonsense leader who had to guide her motley crew of Starfleet officers and Maquis rebels through the Delta Quadrant back home.

She was assisted by several other strong women. One was B'Elanna Torres played by Roxanne Dawson. Torres was a Maquis rebel who was half Klingon and half human. She was forever battling the two sides of herself.

Jeri Ryan came on mid show playing the famous Borg defectee Seven of Nine. Ryan continues to be among the most popular Trek personalities.

Enterprise had some notable female characters. Jolene Blalock served as T'Pol, the Vulcan science advisor who was onboard to guide the humans. While just an advisor, she was supposed to be the wise advisor. The humans on the crew often chafed under her direction, though. And the Captain Jonathan Archer (Scott Bakula) often disregarded her advice.

Star Trek women faced the challenges of being women in the 20th century as well as in the 23rd century. That they did it with as much compassion and humanity as they did is a credit to both the actresses who played the role and the men who created them.

On Tuesday, November 14, Majel Barrett Roddenberry joins son Eugene "Rod" Roddenberry and writer/director Nicholas Meyer for a special 40th Anniversary "Star Trek" Celebration at the world famous Grauman's Chinese Theatres Complex in Hollywood, California following a screening of "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" as part of the "Story Makers Studio" series at the Chinese. Tickets are available at the Chinese Theatre's box office and online at http://www.stiylagency.com/startrek

About the author: Stacy Fox is a second generation Trekker. A student of women?s history and Star Trek, she is especially excited about meeting Majel Barrett Roddenberry at the Story Maker?s Studio Star Trek 40th Anniversary Celebration on November 14 at Mann?s Gourman?s Chinese Theater. To find out more and get tickets yourself, go to http://www.stiylagency.com/startrek.

Hollywood Autographs From the Golden Era

Some movie buffs love collecting autographs from stars of the old time Hollywood movies. Since many of the dynamic visual effects that attract audiences today did not exist in the 30's and 40's, the intrigue and mastery of screen writing were of paramount importance. Fortunately, most of the actors and actresses of Hollywood's Golden Era graciously and generously signed for autograph collectors.

Photographs commissioned by the movie studios of the Golden Era were often of remarkable quality. Photos taken by famous Hollywood photographers that include George Hurrell and Clarence Bullock attest to their exquisite talent. Stars inscribed many attractive photographs taken by these photographers to family, friends, and fans. These quality photographs have the fine quality that is unmatched by laser printed color photos of today. Vintage photos autographed by Hollywood movie stars are wonderful collectibles.

Movies studios retained many contracts signed by Hollywood celebrities that have appeared on the autograph marketplace. Over the past decade these contract have come to market and have provided a wonderful source of authentic autographs. Even the autograph of the famously reclusive Howard Hughes can sometimes be found among the contracts he signed on behalf of his company known as Caddo. In some cases, both Howard Hughes and influential movie legend Howard Hawks have signed their names on a production contract.

Checks signed by legendary Hollywood stars are also available to collectors. Financial managers for the Golden Era stars such as Morgan Maree had files filled with their autographed contracts, checks, and other legal documents. Elizabeth Maree, widow of Morgan Maree, said that her husband had loads of autographed material signed by Judy Garland, Cary Grant and Humphrey Bogart. Alas, many of these autographed contracts were trashed and only a few trickles of their vintage autographed material have become available to collectors.

Autographs from the Golden Era of Hollywood are nostalgic reminders of one of the most remarkable periods in the history of America. The charm, beauty and grace of classic actors from this period are assurances that their autographs will continue to be collected and treasured.

Visit Famous-Celebrity-Autographs.com, a website specializing in checks signed by celebrities, to view celebrity autographed checks, and for loads of valuable information about autographs, autograph collecting, autograph buying-selling, and much more.

What To Do When You See A Celebrity

OK, so you're on holiday in California and you spot a famous celebrity. How should you act? Here are 20 dos and don'ts.

1. Respect the celebrity's right to privacy.

2. Before approaching a celebrity, consider whether it's an appropriate circumstance to do so.

3. Actors don't always get into acting to become famous; they do so because they love acting. And, not every performer wants to meet people. If they ask to be left alone, let them be.

4. If the star is with their children or family, do not approach them. Little children are easily frightened by strangers and stars are protective of their kids. Wait until the star is alone, away from their family or acknowledges you.

5. Never interrupt a celebrity.

6. If a star is dining, talking with others or is otherwise involved, don't intrude. It's better to send a short note... something like this, "I saw you across the room, but didn't want to intrude. I really enjoy your performances and, if you have a moment, would love to say hello."

7. Engage a star in conversation, only if they seem open to it.

8. If you recognize a star from afar, it's OK to wave discretely and smile.

9. If the celebrity appears to be open to meeting you, smile, extend a handshake and introduce yourself.

10. Treat a star with the same respect you would anyone famous. Address them formally as Mr. or Miss, never by their first name, unless invited to do so.

11. If you recognize a star, but can't recall their name, don't insult the star by asking who he/she is. Never say, "Aren't you famous?"

12. Restrain your enthusiasm. Don't gush.

13. Be sincere in your compliments.

14. If you liked the star's performance, say so, but don't fake appreciation. It's good form to say when you last saw them perform and how much you liked their performance. It's bad form to tell them how bad they were.

15. Personal questions about their family or friends are no-nos.

16. You are more likely to get an autograph if you establish a rapport with the star first. Once you've done so, it's OK to ask for an autograph.

17. Do not collect autographs for others. It means you don't care about the star but only about the star's celebrity status. Ask for an autograph only if you really would treasure it.

18. Don't confuse an actor with their characters. Actors portray roles, but they don't live the roles they play. Call stars by their real names, not by their character's names. If you liked or didn't like the character a star portrayed, keep it to yourself.

19. Just because you know them, doesn't mean they know you. Be polite, but not overly friendly.

20. If you meet a celebrity, don't tell everyone where to find them. Let them enjoy their privacy.

John Poimiroo is a travel writer, editor and photographer who focuses on all things about California. Find more at http://www.californiafun.us

Celebrity Lace Wigs-Hollywood Secrets

This article looks at the wigs and hairpieces which Hollywood has kept quiet about.

Many Hollywood stars wear wigs and hairpieces both on and off screen. On screen roles often demand that actors and actresses have different hair styles from those they normally wear. This is especially so in certain kinds of movies. For example men tend not have the kind of hair styles now that they may have had in the seventeenth century - most women do not wear, or grow their hair in the same way they might have done even a hundred years ago. It is quite clear that in these cases Hollywood stars wore wigs and hairpieces.

On screen hair styles have to look as natural as possible. We have all seen very famous stars and we know how they wear their hair as a general rule. Then we see them playing a particular part and wonder what has happened because their hair looks totally different and yet it still looks natural. It is very difficult to get wigs where the hair looks as though it is growing naturally from a person's head. Well the secret is out. There is a way of making and wearing wigs that gives this natural look and Hollywood has kept quiet about it for years, the human hair lace wig.

Whether you just want to have a great new look or you are experiencing hair loss, the lace front wig can be of enormous help. These wigs, once a secret of the rich and famous are now available for everyone, and at prices that are affordable.

What is a Lace Wig?

A lace wig is a front wig where the hair is attached to a base made from Swiss or French lace. The wig has lace at the hairline which is fixed with glue or adhesive tape. Once the lace is attached to your hairline, it gives the impression that the hair is growing from the scalp.

The best type of hair for this purpose is known as cuticle hair because the cuticle is left intact. Much of the hair used in wig making is stripped of the cuticle, resulting in poor quality wig hair that does not stand the test of time and is a lot easier to tangle and damage. Lace wigs are hand made and hair is knotted to the base and then lightened to appear more natural. Lace front wigs have extra lace that is designed to be trimmed before wear. This leaves a natural hairline and hair that looks as though it is attached to your scalp. No longer is this fabulously natural look a secret of the stars, it is available to you now.

Resource Information Audley Hextall http://www.productcheap.com 2007 copyright of productcheap.com all rights reserved

Play Poker Online Against the Stars of the Silver Screen

There's no secret that poker is taking the world by storm. Businessmen, college students and even grandparents are taking up the game at astronomical rates. But what about the rich and famous? They too are catching the poker bug.

According to Vanity Fair magazine, Leonardo Di Caprio and Tobey Maguire spread a monthly $10,000 buy-in "Billionaire Boys Game." The game is held at professional poker player Reagan Silber's Bel Air, CA mansion and includes actors Ben Affleck, James Woods and Mimi Rogers in the group of regulars.

Rogers, the ex-wife of actor Tom Cruise, plays online poker for hours at a time, netting $4,000 since last March alone.

James Woods helped establish an internet poker site with the intentions of providing a place for fellow actors to play head-to-head online.

Maguire, star of the movie Spiderman, hosts a game at his Hollywood Hills estate requiring a minimum $2,000 buy-in. Recent celebrities to his home game include Brad Pitt, Ed Norton and Robert De Niro.

Affleck and singer Robbie Williams, amongst other celebrities, are taking part in the European Poker Tour in Monte Carlo this coming March.

As the world of poker continues to grow, it should be no surprise that even the rich and famous need their share of action at the tables.

So next you sit down at a freeroll tournament sponsored by No Limit Freerolls you might be sitting next to a movie star.

Mr. Feather is a professional poker player and poker writer. Visit his website http://www.nlfreeroll.com and read his poker blog at http://small-stakes.blogspot.com .You never know. You may even bump into somebody famous there.

Name Your Baby for the Stars

What do I name my baby? Along with minor things like, how will I support my child and oh my goodness the baby is how many pounds and coming through how big an opening, this is a question that plagues new parents today. More and more people are shooting for originality in the naming process, wanting to be certain that their child is unique, one who stands out from the crowd.

Of course, if you wanted to fit in, you could pick up one of the most popular baby names. For girls, the top ten includes (in order from #1 to #10): Emily, Emma, Madison, Abigail, Olivia, Isabella, Hannah, Samantha ,Ava, or Ashley. Boys can pick from: Jacob, Michael, Joshua, Matthew, Ethan, Andrew, Daniel, Anthony, Christopher, or Joseph. But these seem to blasé.

Why not go for a celebrity name? Jennifer ranks pretty high in 2005, although it has dropped significantly over the past fifteen years, falling from #8 in 1991 to #42 last year. Perhaps Ms. Anniston and J-Lo aren't considered worthy. Madonna didn't even make the grade of the top 1000 baby names; of course, most new parents today probably scarcely remember her. Then again, I wouldn't want my daughter's friends singing "Like a Virgin" every time she came to class. Paris has moved up on the charts significantly in the last three years. Perhaps new parents are hoping to find a claim to the Hilton fortune. But 'Brittany' seems to be in a downward trend. Maybe it will pick up as those teen girls get a little older.

Looking for a manly boys name to convey that rugged independence? How about 'Marley', which ranks as #467 in 2005? A big fan of 'The Princess Bride'? Go with 'Westley', and perhaps your son will turn out to be an adventuring pirate who bravely slays ROUSes. (Sadly, 'Buttercup' didn't make the list. Maybe 'Daisy'?) Since the tide of popular opinion has turned against Brad Pitt, the name 'Brad' will most likely continue to decline in popularity. Oddly, despite the former success of both Tom Cruise and Tom Hanks, the name 'Tom' hasn't even been among the top 1000 picks for nearly ten years. And thankfully, Eminem has escaped the top rankings, as well.

Celebrities come and go, but their names tend to stick around for a long time. You never know when Hollywood may be calling to your child, and giving them a head start may help. Then again, it may keep them safe at home.

Statistical information came from the Social Security Administration's baby name website.

Nola Redd, mother of three, is working on naming her next baby as we speak. A freelance writer, she posts several short stories and articles at Writing.com. This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.BabyNameVote.Com/ which is a site for Baby Names.