Mary-Louise Parker and The Hills' Lo Bosworth are teaming up with Read for the Record to help get books for kids in need. Check out the PSAs below and pledge to read this year's book The Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle.
Lo will be signing books in LA on September 2nd from 1-2 pm at the Amerian Eagle.
Now, as a celebrity photographer, let me explain something to the unknowing public: there is a HUGE difference between celebrity photographers and paparazzi.
Celebrity photographers have established, professional relationships with publicists, movie studios, music industry insiders, and even celebrities themselves. They are often invited to red-carpet events, concerts, and other fun outings to get exclusive photos for their respective press outlets. They are often on a first-name basis with several people in the entertainment field, and though their photos don't make untold amounts of money (on average, my photos make $100 each in the American market; a little higher in the European market due to the strength of the Euro. There are exceptions, of course, such as a 1/2 page photo that sold for $1,000, but for the most part, $100 is the magic number), they have amassed enough of a stock to continually collect residual checks, and make a decent living in doing so.
Paparazzi, on the other hand, are ALSO on a first-name basis with people...but for entirely different (and uncomplimentary) reasons. Paparazzi are the kind of photographers that toe the line of the law by stalking, harassing, and cat-calling their subjects, and who show no regard for the privacy of their children and/or other, non-famous family members. Yes, their photos make ridiculous amounts of money (the photographer who took the first upskirt shot of an underwearless Britney Spears made my mortgage payoff amount), but they're often at the receiving end of countless lawsuits, and never have I seen a paparazzo live in a house and/or apartment worth any sort of value.
But while I agree with Brad Garrett's assessment of paparazzi not having a "real" job, you have to laugh when you hear a "celebrity" (term used loosely in this case) complain about photographers not having a "real" job. Well, boo-freaking-hoo, Brad: first of all, you should be grateful people care about you to begin with. Second, your residual checks from Everybody Loves Raymond alone are enough to keep you comfortably for the rest of your natural life.
And what, precisely, is it that you do that's worthy of being called a "real" job? You "act" like Herman Munster? Puh-leeze.
Best selling author Michael Crichton died unexpectedly in Los Angeles after what his reps call a "courageous and private battle against cancer."
Crichton, best known for such books as "Jurassic Park" and "Disclosure," also created the hit TV series "ER."
His rep released the following statement: "While the world knew him as a great story teller that challenged our preconceived notions about the world around us -- and entertained us all while doing so -- his wife Sherri, daughter Taylor, family and friends knew Michael Crichton as a devoted husband, loving father and generous friend who inspired each of us to strive to see the wonders of our world through new eyes. He did this with a wry sense of humor that those who were privileged to know him personally will never forget.
Through his books, Michael Crichton served as an inspiration to students of all ages, challenged scientists in many fields, and illuminated the mysteries of the world in a way we could all understand.
He will be profoundly missed by those whose lives he touched, but he leaves behind the greatest gifts of a thirst for knowledge, the desire to understand, and the wisdom to use our minds to better our world.
Michael's family respectfully asks for privacy during this difficult time.
A private funeral service is expected, but no further details will be released to the public."
California voters will vote on Proposition 8 on November 4, which is a measure to eliminate marriage rights from same-sex couples. Actors and musicians speak out against the measure, and urge you to use your voice too. Artists include Kathy Griffin, D. Woods, Paul James, Val Emmich, Golden Brooks, Marisa Lauren, Karina Smirnoff, Kate French, Cameron Goodman, and Ryan Eggold.
