Beyonce and Jay

Never ones to hold back when it comes to living the good life, Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z decided to ring in the New Year in the relaxing environment of St. Barth.

Spotted side-by-side on Thursday afternoon (December 31), the happy couple held one another as they partook in a leisurely yacht cruise around the Caribbean ahead of the New Year's Eve parties.

Meanwhile, Jay-Z recently finished up his work on a brand new collaboration called "Light Up" with Toronto lyricist, Drake.

"Everybody is looking for this one joint with me and Jay, so that needs to happen," Drake previously told MTV. "My goal at this point is to keep making that organic music. I don't wanna feel pressure now that I have a single and music that's hot."

Now having completed the new track, Drake later told MTV, "When I heard that beat, the drums that they had come up with, it was like, 'Man, this is a moment. This sounds like where I'm at in my life.' So, we took it and 40 did what he does to pieces of music that I see potential in — he took it to the next spot. Jay-Z's on it. The song is phenomenal. It's done now."

Leighton Meester: Poolside Relaxation

Getting some much-needed relaxation after a late night of partying, Leighton Meester was spotted hanging out with friends at The Shore Club in Miami Beach, Florida on Wednesday afternoon (December 30).

The "Gossip Girl" actress sprawled out alongside the hotel pool, enjoying a few laughs with her companions after having performed at the opening of Klutch nightclub the previous evening.

Meanwhile, Miss Meester will be making her way to Atlantic City to ring in 2010, as her band is playing a gig at the Dusk Club.

"I'm performing at 12:01," Leighton told E! News, then telling of her New Year's resolution, "I don't make them, because I don't keep them! Maybe when I was 8, I said I'd make my bed every day."

Salma Hayek and Valentina: Ice Cream Cuties

Making quite the picture perfect pair, Salma Hayek and her precious daughter Valentina Paloma Pinault were spotted out at The Grove in Los Angeles on Tuesday (December 29).

The 43-year-old Mexican actress and her little darling joined Salma's mother, Diana, and stepdaughter, Mathide Pinault, for a bite to eat for lunch before grabbing a delicious (and messy) ice cream treat for dessert.

Aside from doting on her family, Miss Hayek was recently among the celebrities to be mentioned in this year's Celebrity Impact Rankings Top 10 list.

Honoring stars who bring in the most cash for their charitable endeavors, Salma is said to have raised over $1.6 million for UNICEF in 2009.

As for work endeavors, Miss Hayek can next be seen starring alongside Adam Sandler, Steve Buscemi and Maria Bello in the comedy "Grown Ups" - which hits theaters on June 25, 2010.

The film is about five good friends who reunite for a Fourth of July holiday weekend to commemorate the 30-year anniversary of their high school graduation.

Sarah Jessica Parker Steps Out with the Twins

Braving the snowy winter weather, Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick were spotted out with the twins in New York City on Sunday (December 27).

The “Sex and the City” sweetie and her “Deck the Halls” hubby toted six-month-old Marion and Tabitha around town as paparazzi followed their every move.

Meanwhile, SJP recently chatted about how thrilled she was to star alongside Hugh Grant in her recently released movie, "Did You Hear About the Morgans?".

She tells: “With this movie, I was basically shoved up inside his jacket pocket. I just loved it. I love him. He is very, very good at what he does. I paid to see him in 'Four Weddings And A Funeral' again and again! I wanted to be in a romantic comedy opposite him for years."

Jennifer Garner: Park Playdate with the Girls

Enjoying a little quality time with her darling daughters, Jennifer Garner was spotted out at a park in Brentwood, California on Saturday afternoon (December 26).

Bundled up in a winter jacket, the “Juno” actress was all smiles as she hit up the playground equipment with Violet and Seraphina.

As for family life, Jen recently told that she's learned to deal with being separated from husband Ben Affleck as a result of their busy work schedules - which she can handle with the help of her girlfriends.

"I can live with Ben working crazy hours. But I can't live without girlfriends. It's fine if he's not there; I just need someone to b*tch about it to," Garner said.

Bikini Beach Babes: 2009

Inching closer and closer to the new year lying ahead, 2009 surely wasn't short of its fair share of celebrity bikini bliss.

With a seemingly endless supply of Hollywood hotties decked out in skimpy swimwear, lovely ladies such as Miranda Kerr, Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan and Mariah Carey were among the numerous beach dwellers over the past twelve months.

Joining in on the body-baring fun were the damsels of the reality TV world, as Kristin Cavallari, Stephanie Pratt, Whitney Port, Kim Zolciak and Kelly Bensimon all took their turns modeling bikinis as paparazzi eagerly snapped up shots.

Not to be left out, fellow starlets such as AnnaLynne McCord, Courteney Cox, Sienna Miller, Elisabetta Canalis, Leighton Meester, Sophie Monk and Tori Spelling all showed off their fabulous figures for the whole world to see.

Brittany Murphy Laid to Rest

Just four days after the shocking news of her premature passing, Brittany Murphy was laid to rest during a private ceremony at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Los Angeles on Christmas Eve (December 24).

Saying their goodbyes were about two dozen attendees consisting of only the closest family and friends including Brittany’s husband, Simon Monjack, as well as actor Eric Balfour.

Meanwhile, family spokesman Alex Ben Block told press of a future event to be held in Miss Murphy's honor, saying, "There are plans to have a more public memorial sometime in the new year when other people can come remember and share memories of her, but today is just small and very private for those close to her."

As previously reported by Gossip Center, Brittany was only 32-year-old at the time of her passing - dying after suffering cardiac arrest with the official cause of death still pending toxicology results by the Los Angeles County Coroner.

Jessica Simpson: Night Out in NYC

Continuing along with her holiday stay on the east coast, Jessica Simpson was spotted stepping out in New York City on Wednesday evening (December 23).

The 29-year-old singer/actress was joined by her mother Tina, with the pair staying in the Big Apple while Ashlee continues along with her “Chicago” Broadway stage duties.

Meanwhile, Jessica has had quite the interesting past month - making headlines for a variety of bemusing topics.

After kicking off a budding romance with Smashing Pumpkins rocker Billy Corgan, the "Dukes of Hazzard" damsel then turned up in the news for a failed attempt to bail her makeup artist, Mary Phillips, out of jail.

A few days later, Miss Simpson found herself denying reports that she flirted with affair-stricken golfer Tiger Woods last summer, tweeting of the matter, "Can't believe that I'm on the cover of star [sic] magazine with Tiger Woods, what a JOKE! The Shocking Inside Story' is (insert drumroll) A LIE!"

Most recently, Jess posted quite the interesting video on her Twitter account which showed her using a candle to clear out her ears in an ancient practice known as ear candling.

Nicole Richie and Joel Madden: Holiday Retail Mates

Excited for what's sure to be a fun filled holiday season with their two kiddies, Nicole Richie and Joel Madden were out finishing up some last minute Christmas shopping in West Hollywood on Tuesday (December 22).

The former "Simple Life" star and the Good Charlotte rocker stopped by the Roseark jewelry boutique following Miss Richie's unsuccessful trip to 14 Karats the previous day.

Aside from prepping for the holidays with Joel, Harlow and little Sparrow, Nicole, 28, is also currently working on her upcoming half-hour sitcom in development at ABC.

As previously reported by Gossip Center, "the pilot centers around a professional woman with complicated family relationships who is struggling to figure out what role she'll take as her life and her family evolve."

Kate Hudson Reunites with Ryder in Aspen

Fresh off of a flight out of Santa Monica, Kate Hudson reunited with her growing son Ryder in snowy Aspen, Colorado on Monday afternoon (December 21).

After stopping for a warm beverage, the mother/son duo took a leisurely stroll around town - as Kate made the trip to the mountain locale to celebrate Christmas after her much publicized split from Yankee Alex Rodriguez earlier this month.

As for her breakup with A-Rod, a source recently told the NY Daily News, “Kate is better off without A-Rod. She had much better chemistry with Owen Wilson.”

The insider adds, “Alex is such a diva. When he came to the London premiere of ‘Nine,’ it was obvious he didn’t like standing in the background. He’’d show up late to every appearance.”

Family and Friends Turn Up at Brittany Murphy

Dealing with the unexpected death of their loved one, Brittany Murphy’s husband Simon Monjack greeted family and friends who arrived at the actress’ home in full force on Sunday (December 20).

With a cadre of LAPD officers also on the scene, Miss Murphy’s closest relatives and pals solemnly walked up to the scene of her passing - as she was pronounced dead earlier in the morning after suffering full cardiac arrest.

Meanwhile, the celebrity world has quickly voiced their condolences for the 32-year-old "8 Mile" actress - with many stars taking to their Twitter accounts after the saddening story broke.

Actress Lindsay Lohan wrote, "My deepest condolences go out to all of Brittany Murphy's loved ones& may she rest in peace....She was a great talent w/a beautiful soul xo."

Also sending her sympathies, Kim Kardashian tweeted, "I am in shock that [Brittany] Murphy has died! Clueless is my all time favorite movie. My prayers go out to her family & husband."

Meanwhile, Jessica Simpson said, "Brittany Murphy was an incredible ray of Light to so many people. Her smile was contagious. My prayers are with her family and loved ones."

David Beckham and Sons: Christmas in the UK

 


Gearing up for the holidays, David Beckham was spotted touching down at Heathrow Airport in London, England following a flight from Los Angeles on Saturday (December 19).

With his three sons, Romeo, Cruz and Brooklyn, all by his side, the soccer stud strolled through the terminal while gearing up to spend Christmas in the UK.

In related news, it was just announced that the AC Milan midfielder will be playing against his former club, Manchester United, in the first knockout round of the Champions League.

Of the Manchester draw, Milan director Umberto Gandini told press, "I think David wanted this match and destiny looked after him."

Vanessa Hudgens: Home Furniture Flirt

 


Having just recently celebrated her 21st birthday, Vanessa Hudgens was spotted cruising around Burbank, California on what was a sunny Friday afternoon (December 18).

Offering up a smile to following paparazzi, the “High School Musical” hottie gripped the wheel of her Audi - taking the top down as she departed the WB studios parking lot before hitting up Tara Home furniture store to pick up a handful of big red cushions.

Meanwhile, Miss Hudgens is getting ready for a working weekend, as she's lined up for EckoRed promotional duties.

The brunette beauty will be making her way to Universal CityWalk on Sunday (December 20), signing autographs for lucky fans at the Sketchers store starting at 1:30PM PT.

Elin Nordegren

 


Doing her best to remain out of the spotlight during her sister’s marital strife, Josefin Lonnborg, the sister of Elin Nordegren, was spotted out in London on Thursday (December 17).

The Swedish beauty, who happens to be a lawyer, went to a restaurant near her office for a bite to eat with some work colleagues.

Having helped her sister purchase a home in Sweden following Tiger Woods's affair scandal, the latest work is that Josefin's sis, Elin, is planning on leaving Woods for good.

A pal told press that “divorce is 100 percent on. It would not appear that Elin Nordegren is going to be standing by her man. Sources have told us that Elin has said this marriage is over and she is looking to divorce.”

Jayde Nicole

 


Making for quite the pleasant sight, Playboy models Jayde Nicole and her "Girls Next Door" Shannon twin pals teamed up for a night on the town in Los Angeles on Tuesday (Decemebr 15).

Joined by a few more of their fellow bunny pals, the lovely ladies hit up Katsuya restaurant for a Japanese meal during what was quite the chilly evening.

Tweeting to her fans, Jayde wrote, "Late night Katsuya w/@AbbeyWilson88 @shannontwins @crystalharris, hope, kim, and Sara Jean FUN times! Xo."

Clearly not ready for the frigid west coast temperatures, Miss Nicole added, "Omg its FREEZING!!! I need someone to cuddle with right NOW!!"

Stars Turn Up for "Nine" New York City Premiere

 

Making for quite the high profile event, the stars were out in full force for the New York City premiere of "Nine" at the Ziegfeld Theatre on Tuesday night (December 15).

Among those in attendance were the film's stars, with Kate Hudson , Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Marion Cotillard, Daniel Day-Lewis and Fergie all lighting up the red carpet.

Also joining in on the fun were big names in entertainment including Madonna (with daughter Lourdes), the Olsen twins, Naomi Watts and many others.

Due out in theaters in the States on Christmas Day, "Nine" tells "the story of Guido Contini, a world famous film director as he confronts an epic mid-life crisis with both creative and personal problems."

Already expected to be a hit, the film came in second in today's Golden Globe nominations - picking up five bids, which is just one short of the six received by George Clooney's "Up In the Air".

Taylor Momsen: Gorgeous in Garters

 
Up bright and early for the start of another work week, Taylor Momsen was looking adorable as she headed to set of "Gossip Girl" in Downtown, NYC on Monday (December 14).

Wearing a short skirt and garters, the 16-year-old Jenny Humphrey headed straight to her trailer to get prettied up before stepping out for the day's shoot.

Taking to her Twitter account, Miss Momsen jokingly wrote this morning, "Nice today...Sunny and 47, It's 36 now...this report brought to you buy my dog's steaming poop."

She then added, "I'm taking a vacation from tweeting!!!and not gonna follow some people. hit me up through my facebook people ."

Kate Moss and Jamie Hince: Glastonbury Lovers

 

A regular at the annual musical showcase, Kate Moss was spotted alongside Jamie Hince at the Glastonbury Festival at Worthy Farm, Pilton on Friday (June 25).

The sexy supermodel and her musician fiance looked happily in love as they strolled the grounds hand-in-hand at the 40th anniversary of the largest music festival in Europe.

And while she's enjoying a weekend of relaxation at the moment, Miss Moss certainly has had the jam-packed schedule as of late.

Along with teaming up with Naomi Campbell for a sultry i-D magazine photo shoot, Kate also recently continued her fashionable endeavors by launching a brand new dress collection for Topshop.

Miss Gibraltar Kaiane Aldorino: Miss World 2009

 
Garnering the top prize in the pageant community, Miss Gibraltar Kaiane Aldorino was crowned as Miss World 2009 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa on Saturday (December 12).

Looking absolutely stunning in a white-lace evening gown, the 23-year-old administrative clerk was overcome with emotion as the announcement was made - covering her mouth as her jaw dropped in awe.

"I have no words," Miss Aldorino said upon being asked about her feelings. "I am really happy."

And now that she's been given the distinct honor of being named as the reigning Miss World, Kaiane tells of her plans, "I will try to do the best that I can now that I have opportunity and advantage."

Kristin Cavallari: Fit and Fabulous

 

Keeping up on her sexy figure, Kristin Cavallari ventured out for a workout session at her local gym in Brentwood, California on Thursday (December 10).

Doing her best to stay warm in the chillier-than-usual west coast winter weather, the "Hills" hottie and her gal pal hammed it up for paparazzi as they quickly ran out to their nearby car.

Meanwhile, Miss Cavallari was recently asked by MTV News who she'd like to see play her character in Lauren Conrad's book turned movie "L.A. Candy".

Kristin tells, "Oh lord! I don't know if anyone can hold up to that! It's a tough job. I don't know if we're going off age. I mean ... I don't know. If we're not going off age, I would say ... I mean, I love Cameron Diaz."

"That's who I would want to play in a movie," Cavallari continued. "So if she could that for me, that would be great."

Rachel Uchitel: I’m a Good Person

 
It has been a tough couple of weeks for Rachel Uchitel, ever since she was named as one of Tiger Woods’ many mistresses following his post-Thanksgiving car crash.

And now the New York City club promoter is speaking out and defending herself from all of the malicious attacks being made on her in the media.

Rachel told press she isn’t a "home wrecker, gold digger, tramp, whore ... I'm not those things. I have very good qualities. When you’re judged by the nation, it’s really difficult. It’s horrible."

According to an insider, Miss Uchitel cancelled her press conference last week because she was "scared for her safety because she knows so much about Tiger, his alleged affairs and a variety of other Woods matters," rather than because of money.

Scarlett Johansson: A View From the Bridge

 
Gearing up for her Broadway run, Scarlett Johansson was all smiles at a photocall for the upcoming Broadway revival of Arthur Miller's "A View From The Bridge" in New York City on Wednesday (December 9).

Held at Etcetera Etcetera Restaurant, the "Iron Man 2" actress posed for pictures and chatted with press alongside co-stars Liev Schreiber and Jessica Hecht.

Meanwhile, Miss Johansson is encouraging all of us to explore alternative stocking stuffers this holiday season from Oxfam Unwrapped. Example gift pledges include "buying items such as a goat for a needy family in the developing world, training a teacher and school books."

Scarlett tells, "I spent an amazing day with some young girls at an Oxfam-funded school in Uttar Pradesh. They were all from the lowest Dalit caste, but their education had filled them with ambition, self worth and hope for the future."

Miss Johansson adds, "Every child deserves that kind of start in life - and Oxfam Unwrapped gifts like desks and chairs, school equipment and even the school buildings themselves can provide this. And that's why I am asking for us all to give these kinds of gifts this Christmas."

Victoria and David Beckham: A Dinner Party for Posh

 

Enjoying a swanky night on the town, Victoria and David Beckham were spotted arriving at the Connaught Hotel for a dinner in Posh’s honor in London on Tuesday (December 8).

Put on by Harper’s Bazaar magazine, the soccer stud followed closely behind his cleavage-baring wife as the likes of Gordon and Tana Ramsay made their way inside.

The festive occasion was held to honor Mrs Beckham for her stylish December cover issue.

In related news, Victoria recently put her celebrity life on hold to chaperone her sons’ field trip at a local airport for a lesson on transportation.

The 35-year-old fashion icon says that she appreciates being able to give back to her kids’ school and even makes time to walk them to and from school with her hubby.

In an interview with WWD, she says, "I've always been driven. I was mentally and physically bullied when I was at school and that gave me a very thick skin...I've always been a fighter."

Meanwhile, her busy schedule does call upon her as she relaunches her fashion collection and makes an appearance on American Idol in January - which she wants to uphold Abdul’s kind criticism.

"I want to be nice to people. I know how it feels to be stood there and be judged and how it can feel when nerves get the better of you, and I don't want to shatter anybody's dream. But at the same time, there's nothing wrong with a little bit of constructive criticism. It's doing it nicely, because even those that are bad, they don't know that they're bad and who am I to shatter that?"

John Stamos: Extortion Drama

 
Caught in a sticky situation, John Stamos announced Tuesday that he was being blackmailed for $680,000 by a man and woman threatening to sell pictures to tabloids that the actor says are just pictures of him “posing with fans.”

The extortionists were arrested last week in an undercover plan where the FBI posed as the Full House star’s representative for a money drop that took place in Michigan’s airport.

"John Stamos was the target of an extortion attempt," says Matt Polk, a rep for the actor. "The U.S. Attorney and the FBI handled the investigation swiftly and with great expertise."

FBI raided the home of Allison Coss, 23, and Scott Sippola, 30, of Marquette, Michigan, finding a few photos of Stamos, paper with Stamos’s cell phone number on it, and three tabloid magazines with contact information.

Stamos vacationed back in 2004 in Florida, where he met Coss and attended a party where the photos took place.

It is not certain if the pictures were from during or after Stamos and Rebecca Romijn split. Stamos and Coss stayed in contact with each other for a long time until Stamos began receiving email threats last month from “Brian L” who wanted the money or he would turn them into tabloids. Since then the case is still pending and suspects have been posted bond.

Cameron Diaz: New Beau?

She’s been decidedly unlucky in love as of late, but things may be changing for Cameron Diaz just in time for the holiday season.

Last night (December 6) the “Charlie’s Angels” babe as spotted out with friends in Sevilla, Spain where she definitely looked to be smitten with a mystery man.

greeted the handsome guy by jumping up on him and wrapping her legs around his waist in a full-body hug. Throughout the evening Cameron showed him little signs of affection as well.

At dinner, the hunky Spaniard sat patiently by Miss Diaz as she chatted away with friends before following her to the car.

Jaimee Grubbs Steps Out Amidst Woods Affair Scandal

Unwilling to seclude herself as she makes headlines for her alleged affair with Tiger Woods, Jaimee Grubbs was spotted enjoying a fancy meal on the town in West Hollywood on Saturday night (December 5).

The second lady to be attached with the golf legend strutted past paparazzi as she headed into BOA Steakhouse with a few friends - looking upset over the lack of privacy as she later left in a white Honda.

The sighting comes as Miss Grubbs' former beau, Shawn Southern of Tool Academy, revealed that he knew about his ex and her affair with Tiger.

According to the latest reports, Mr Southern "disclosed that Jaimee Grubbs constantly sent text messages to Tiger Woods during the taping of the show Tool Academy."

He added that she admitted to being involved with Woods for a year after he confronted her about the situation.

More Drama for Tiger Woods

Not making his already terrible situation any better, a girl dressed in a bikini and jeans stood outside Tiger Woods' home Friday afternoon (December 4).

The blonde female stood at the entrance of Woods’ gated Windermere, FL home, holding up a sign reading, “TIGER- THEY OFFERED ME $500,000 - I’M KEEPING MY MOUTH SHUT!”

In other Tiger drama, another woman has come forward claiming she had a long-term affair with Woods. And to prove it, she has already hired a lawyer, according to TMZ.

Female number four is claiming that she and Tiger began a two-year affair back in 2004 (when she was 20) near Woods’ home in Orlando, FL.

Rihanna Celebrates Rated R Release

She’s been on the promotional trail non-stop as of late, and last night (December 3) Rihanna held her record release party to celebrate Rated R.

The “Russian Roulette” songstress arrived at M2 nightclub in New York City looking fit and fine in a black and silver dress with black heels and black sunglasses.

Earlier in the evening, Ri-Ri treated her fans to a killer concert at the Hammerstein Ballroom, singing her way through an extensive set list of hits.

Fans began lining up for the free MySpace-sponsored show at 7am, and though Rihanna was 20 minutes late taking the stage, it was well worth the wait.

Janet Jackson Gears Up for "X-Factor" Finale

Happy to be on the ground in London, England, Janet Jackson was spotted today (Dec 3) arriving at the Heathrow airport.

Bundled up in a black scarf, the “Nasty” singer kept her shades on as she was escorted out of the building and to an awaiting chauffeured ride.

Miss Jackson is in town ahead of a performance on the final episode of “The X-Factor,” as only four contestants are remaining. Janet will perform on the Sunday night grand finale.

Star judge Simon Cowell originally hoped to have Jackson's late brother Michael on the show. But the king of pop died before he could fulfill his UK mega-tour.

Lindsay Lohan: JFK Jet

 


Making her way out of New York City, Lindsay Lohan was spotted catching a flight at JFK airport today (Dec 1).

Keeping her shades on while walking to airport security, the “Labor Pains” actress playfully took pictures of the snapping paparazzi with her cell phone before disappearing into the terminal.

In related news, E Online is reporting that Ms Lohan and musician, John Mayer, were spotted sharing a table and dancing together all last night at Butter in NYC.

A source said LiLo seemed very interested in the “Your Body is a Wonderland” singer, and the two partied until 3AM. And later, when press asked John’s party about the Lindsay situation, they responded, “No comment.”