By Jill Jackson
HOLLYWOOD … Devout Catholic Mel Gibson could not possibly be so devout, what with all his extramarital cavortings. Word is, he is expecting a child out of “wedlock” with his Russian girlfriend. Gibson is already the father of seven. In all my years of reporting the Hollywood news, I have never crossed paths with Mr. Gibson, so I can’t tell you much about him. If you are a fan, stay that way. If not, stay that way also.
* * *
Cameron Diaz is receiving raves for her performance in “My Sister’s Keeper.” The aquamarine-eyed actress gives the best performance of her career, and she is ecstatic about the rave notices. And if you care to know a bit about the lady, she stands 5 feet 5 inches tall and was born in San Diego in 1972. Her father is Cuban, her mother is German, English and American Indian. Quite a combo, eh whut? As a child she was nicknamed “Skeletar” because she was so skinny. She loves to tell about her first venture into “the biz.” She auditioned 12 times for a small role in “The Mask.” She was called back 12 times before she got the part.
* * *
Chris Pine onstage in a play at the Gefen Playhouse, a small theater in the Los Angeles suburb of Westwood. He’s received rave notices and gets humongous applause each performance. In his personal life, there is still no “other.” Only a flock of femmes fighting for his affection at every turn.
* * *
Kevin Spacey has been spending time in Britain managing the prestigious Old Vic theater, but now he’s once again taking to the screen in a film titled “Father of Invention.” This about a humble inventor turned egomaniacal millionaire who spends eight years in prison when one of his inventions goes amiss. On release, he sets out to rebuild his fortune. This he finds easier than rebuilding his relationship with his family. Spacey’s own private life has always been VERY private, but he does laugh when he tells about being kicked out of a military school when he was young for hitting a classmate with a tire. He never says why, though.
* * *
Looking better than ever, Barbra Streisand has joined Diana Krall on her first studio album in four years. Release is set for Sept. 20. Meanwhile, “Babs” is enjoying life with her adoring mate, Jim Brolin. She also has a great relationship with her stepson Josh. And, if you take a look up close and find her looking “fresher than springtime,” mayhap a few tucks here and there — and a wonderful hairdresser. P.S. And don’t overlook the make-up person.
* * *
Aside to Kenneth K. of Bogalusa, La. I wish I could answer your question about Lake Bell, but she recently moved from my apartment building. I’m sure her career is still on high, but as to her personal life that you asked about, I’ll try to find the answer and let you know.
* * *
BITS ’N’ PIECES: Filmtown has been saddened for weeks over the loss of so many, but as the old saying goes: “The show must go on.” (I shall never forget when I was on TV in New Orleans, and I said to my mother, “The show must go on,” and she answered, “Why?”) There will never be an explanation as to “Why?” It just does. And so it is a belated “farewell” to Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson. You will always be remembered in the annals of showbiz.
© 2009 King Features Synd., Inc.