Britney Spears calls her life worse than a jail sentence

Britney Spears says that since her breakdown in January, her life has been worse than a jail sentence – but that she's slowly healing one day at a time. "I have really good days, and then I have bad days," the singer, 26, admits in a new fly-on-the wall, 90-minute documentary, “Britney: For The Record,” to air Nov. 30 on MTV. On struggling to regain control of her life, the pop star says candidly: "I'm having to pay for it for a really long time." A camera crew followed Britney for three months as she moved to pull her life back on track. "I wanted to make this film because I started to feel like I wasn't being seen in the light that I wanted to be seen in," Spears said. She hopes the documentary will help set the record straight on where she’s been and where she’s headed.

Hugh Jackman is named ‘The Sexiest Man Alive’

Yes, sir – Cube agrees Hugh is sexy. The man is a triple threat: he can sing, dance and wield a weapon. And at 6 ft. 2 in., all scruff and biceps, Hugh Jackman looms large in the new movie “Australia,” which he says kept him "dirty 95 percent of the time.” According to costar Nicole Kidman, "Women's jaws drop when Hugh walks into a room. But what was his real-life leading lady’s response to her hubby’s new title? Hugh said his wife of 12 years said, "I could've told them that years ago!" Check out People magazine’s other sexy men this year.

Star Trek XI gets sexy

The fast-paced trailer was released Monday and offers insight on the childhood of Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock. Believe it or not, Trekkies, the next Star Trek will include love scenes, vicious fights and hunks.

Watch the trailer

Miley giggles over new boy toy Justin on Ellen

They’re supposedly “not dating” but Miley couldn’t help but get the giggles and squirm like a school girl when Ellen asked her about model/singer Justin Gaston. Though Miley tries to dodge and be coy about her new relationship, her body language on Ellen gives it away. Just watch how giggly she gets as Ellen DeGeneres tries to make her admit they're dating.

Vet now serves as soap opera star

J.R. Martinez, 25, a real-life war veteran, takes the stage on the popular daytime soap opera "All My Children" to try and bring accuracy to an Iraq-related story line. In honor of Veteran's Day, Iraq War veterans played themselves on the show. Martinez was picked for a special recurring role on the show. Martinez was 19 and three-and-a-half weeks into his tour in Iraq when the Humvee in which he was riding drove over an IED. The explosion trapped him and flames engulfed him. Martinez ended up with 40 percent of his body burned and had to undergo 32 surgeries. Watch the video about him and how "All My Children" used real vets for the show.

Furby-like creature rediscovered

A nocturnal creature about the size of a small mouse has been rediscovered in Indonesia. The pygmy tarsie, which looks like a real-life version of a Furby, was thought to be extinct. No one had seen one for 70 years, but three specimens were trapped and tracked this summer by a Texas A&M University antropologist in the mountainsides of Lore Lindu National Park in Central Sulawesi. Check out the video:

TV reporters horrific accident caught on tape

Wow! Some reporters have drivers to take them everywhere while they sit in the back seat researching and writing their stories. Sam Champion of Good Morning America was doing just that when his driver Bryan Ritzul avoided a crashing into a tractor-trailer out of control and crashing into the median directly in front of them. Watch Sam and video from the car's font dash video mount here.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Lance Armstrong fears violent attack during Tour de France 2009

Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong will return to the race next year after a three-year retirement. But he fears for his safety: "There're some aggressive, angry emotions [in France]. If you believe what you read my personal safety could be in jeopardy. Cycling is a sport of the open road and spectators are lining that road. I try to believe that people, even if they don't like me, will let the race unfold."

Heather Locklear formally charged with DUI

Heather Locklear has been formally charged with driving under the influence of drugs in connection with her September arrest, the Santa Barbara, Calif., District Attorney's Office said Monday. The misdemeanor charge filed by the DA's office specifies that the drugs in question were "prescription medications" and not alcohol or narcotics. If convicted, the actress, 47, faces penalties ranging from a fine to up to six months in county jail.

 Speaking of "drugs" and forms of escapism, Cube found the follow interesting research tidbits...

San Francisco has more pot clubs than Starbucks

San Francisco's Department of Public Health has released federal data that finds that there are 98 marijuana dispensaries compared to 71 Starbucks in the city. Cube must note that no laws have been broken here!  The pot outlets are actually alternative medicine spots for those who have been prescriptions. Ready to move?

Unhappy people watch more television

Cube found a reason for folks to go unplugged. A new study released from Social Indicators Research found that watching TV might make you feel good in the short term but is more likely to lead to overall unhappiness.   After collecting data over 34 years from 45,000 participants,  the research crew determined unhappy people watch more TV while those consider themselves happy spend more time reading and socializing.  Now Cube says read the study, re-new your library cards and join a book club!

Now back to the celeb gossip...

Justin Timberlake debuts new single on MySpace

Justin Timberlake is debuting a new song that will help sick children at the same time. His new beat, "Follow My Lead,” is available on his MySpace Music page beginning today. All proceeds from download sales will help fund the Shriners Hospitals for Children, which provide free care to children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries and cleft lip and palate. Awww…gotta love JT!

Scott Weiland has new solo

LP Scott Weiland, former frontman for Stone Temple Pilots, has a new solo album out called "Hodgepodge." It's said to be inspired by a split from his with of eight years and the death of his younger brother to a drug overdose. Despite being tested by some serious downs in the past year, Dec. 5 will mark six years since Weiland has done heroin. Read more about the album and his creative process.

Jessica says Ashlee may induce labor

Ashlee Simpson-Wentz is so eager to finally give birth that she may induce labor, her sister Jessica Simpson says. Older sis Jess stopped by on Monday for the taping of the The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Jessica told DeGeneres on the show, which airs Wednesday, “I think she's really just jumping around trying everything right now." (Maybe Ashlee should try singing….the baby just might jump out then.)

Since Cube is on the topic of things that just can't wait.... 

Lean Cuisine recall

One member of Cube's family is all smug about being vegetarinan now, and Cube's ignoring her child-like laughter and poinging: Lean Cuisine has recalled three varieties of its entrees, which may contain small piece of blue plastic. For more information on each product recalled, check out this news release from the US Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service.

Cube reminds for your to-do list: Check your freezer, re-new your library cards and...

get back to work!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

TRL, R.I.P.

MTV's pioneering video countdown show signed off Sunday evening with a two-hour finale filled with live in-studio performances, appearances via satellite, and 10 years' worth of clips and reminiscences. (A big favorite: young 'N Sync standout Timberlake saying how cool it would be to date fellow burgeoning pop star Britney Spears.) Carson Daly (as well as former veejays) also showed up to help host-of-the-moment Damien Fahey count down the 10 videos that helped defined TRL make its mark, starting with Outkast's "Hey Ya." Total Request Live (TRL), which premiered in 1998, saw its numbers dwindle as MTV packed its schedule with reality programming, and the Internet and YouTube siphoned away massive chunks of the show's target teenage audience. But once upon a time, TRL was destination afterschool viewing, before shows like "The Hills" and Paris Hilton's "My New BFF" took over the channel. So, here’s a reminder of just how cool 3 p.m. used to be on TRL.

Wanda Sykes speaks out about lifestyle and wife

Comedian Wanda Sykes has become more outspoken about her gay lifestyle now that California has passed Proposition 8, a same sex marriage ban. Sykes told a crowd at a gay rights rally in Las Vegas on Saturday that the passage of Proposition 8 made her feel like she was "attacked." "Now, I gotta get in their face," she said. "I'm proud to be a woman. I'm proud to be a black woman, and I'm proud to be gay." She also admitted that she married her partner on Oct. 25. Who is Wanda Sykes wife? Cube doesn't know but we're betting - considering Sykes' her feisty and blunt style - she's really patient and has a great sense of humor.

E! host Debbie Matenopoulos surprised by hubby’s divorce filing

TV personality Debbie Matenopoulos didn’t see it coming. She says she is hurt and surprised by her husband's divorce filing, which she learned about from Internet reports. Ouch. The host of E!'s Daily 10 and her husband were married for seven years. Jay Faires, a music executive, filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, according to Los Angeles court papers filed Wednesday. Faires, who wed Matenopoulos, 33, in July 2003 and separated five years later, is requesting that the court not award Matenopoulos spousal support. (Maybe it’s because the two-time Emmy nominee and former co-host of The View is making bank on E!.)

Kanye West denies assaulting photographer

Kanye West denies assaulting a photographer in a "bogus" incident outside a Newcastle, England, bar that led to the rapper's second paparazzi-related arrest. "When I left the club," he writes in his blog, "I was encountered by a thirsty paparazzi as usual. He felt he had more rights to my space than me, so I put my hand up to prevent him from taking my image. I didn't assault him."

Lohan dust up with animal activists

Lindsay Lohan was pelted with a flour bomb by when she entered the VIP Room Theater of a Paris nightclub wearing a fur stole early Saturday morning. She dust off her stole and blue sequined dress to pose on the red carpet with disc jockey Samantha Ronson, who entered the club to spin tracks for crowd that included Shaggy and Katy Perry.

First female pro basketball player

So it's not American pro ball, but Eri Yoshida, 16, is the first female drafted to a pro baseball team in an independent league in Japan. It was her side-arm knuckleball pitch that got her noticed.

Penthouse Casino wants a piece of Vegas

Penthouse CEO Marc Bell is considering buying Vegas property. Founded in the U.K. in 1965, Playboy's rival in the adult entertainment world has been emerging across all mediums. The Web sites have 200 million members, including "phenomenal" numbers in Europe and Asia. Penthouse has also launched a cable television network in January and already has signed up 30 million homes. Read about Penthouse's possible new presence in the LV.

Australia launches a new sex-focused political party

In response to the Australian government's mandatory filters on the internet regarding sexual content, the head of a national adult retail and entertainment lobby group is launching the Australian Sex Party. The Eros Association head Fiona Patten says she - like the conservative Christian politicians - wants to protect the children, but does not want to "reduce the Internet to a G-rated Internet." Read how Aussies are getting serious about their sex.

Motrin ad enrages baby-slinging moms

Pain relief mogul Motrin has removed and apologized for an ad campaign targeting mothers who carry their babies in a sling. Mommy bloggers have been e-raging and Twitting that the ad is insensitive and condescending. Watch the ad. Read the mad mommy feedback. And tell Cube what you think of the commercial.

That's it for Cube Candy today!
Get back to work!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Angelina Jolie hopes to 'fade away' from movies

With six children at home, Angelina Jolie says her days as an actress are numbered. "I don't plan to keep acting very long," she tells the BBC. "I'm ready to do a few things now and fade away and get ready to be a grandma one day."  Jolie, 33, currently starring in The Changeling, says she plans to "work for a few months" in February, then take a year off.  "I won't work again probably for another year," she says. "So maybe it'll be once a year, then maybe it'll be once every three years." Geez, must be nice - can Cube have that schedule too?

Kanye arrested (again) for allegedy popping another pap

Kanye West's love may not be the only thing that needs to be put on lockdown—his fists might also want to consider it. The rapper was arrested on suspicion of assault in Newcastle, England, early this morning, after allegedly getting into a physical altercation with a paparazzo. Northumbria Police have confirmed to E! News that a 31-year-old man was arrested and released without charge and that no further action will be taken. This makes the second time this year West managed to escape charges for an alleged shutterbug smackdown.

Paula Goodspeed sent Abdul flowers days before suicide

Last week, Paula Abdul got flowers with a note signed, "Love, J.T." and the message, "Hope you're doing great. Here's my new cell number." But the gift didn’t come from her restaurateur boyfriend J.T. Torregiani, but from ex-American Idol contestant Paula Goodspeed. Over the last three years – since Goodspeed was dismissed from her disastrous Idol audition – Abdul has received more than 100 letters, numerous phone calls and uninvited visits from Goodspeed. Also, according to People magazine, Goodspeed even changed her first name from Sandra to Paula. Goodspeed recently committed suicide outside Abdul's home. (Now that is a fan taking it overboard.)

Beyoncé: I didn't want to marry too young

Beyoncé, who has always been tight-lipped about her marriage to Jay-Z, is finally giving some insight into her thoughts about tying the knot. "I was 18 when we first met, 19 when we first started dating. There was no rush," the singer tells Seventeen magazine. The singer, whose new album “I Am … Shasha Fierce” arrives Monday, says she wanted to have a strong sense of self before making a lifelong commitment to anyone.

'Dirty dancer' wins $275,000 from small town

A North Carolina Town has agreed to pay $275,000 to Rebecca Willis for banning her from a local establishment after residents accused her of "dirty dancing." She described her dancing as "exuberant and flamboyant," but not obscene. Although she won a settlement, she is not allowed to return to the establishment she once dance and the town won't admit it did anything wrong.

SNL hires replacement for Fey and Poehler

Fey went move on to primetime and Poehler went on to have a baby, and that left an opening for two new featured "Saturday Night Live" players - Abby Elliot and Micaela Watkins, NBC announced today. Elliot comes to the show via the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, an improv/sketch company co-founded by Poehler. She is a second-generation cast member. Her father Chris Elliott was regular in the mid-1990s. She also trained with the Groundlings, where Will Ferrell, Phil Hartman and Kristen Wiig got their start. Watkins is also a Groundlings alum.

That's it from Cube Candy -

Have a "cubetastic" Friday!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

A wrap-up on the CMA’s – Country stars hottest night of glamour and music

In case you missed the CMA's, Cube Candy is bringing you the highlights, the best-of, if you will:

There's just no beating Kenny Chesney. The country star earned the prestigious entertainer of the year award for the third year in a row – fourth time overall – at the Country Music Association Awards on Wednesday at Nashville's Sommet Center.  "As much as tonight is about awards, I really believe that being able to stand up here is more about great songs," a teary Chesney, 40, told the crowd, after surprise guest Shania Twain announced his victory. "This is my fourth time standing up here, and I'm really humbled by it." Chesney was nominated seven times at the award show, but left with only the night's top honor.

Four-time nominee Brad Paisley didn't just host and perform at the ceremony – he was one of the night's major winners. The singer took two awards, including male vocalist and music video of the year for "Waitin' on a Woman."

The singer's co-host, Carrie Underwood, also had a big night – and not just because of her six wardrobe changes during the telecast. The former American Idol champ was named female vocalist of the year for the third year in a row. Accepting the award after belting out the emotionally rending "Just a Dream," Underwood, 25, joked, "Mama, it's real hard to sing when you're in the second row crying."

A bit of Hollywood came to Nashville last night as well. Nicole Kidman revealed the first winner of the evening with Hugh Jackman. The Australia stars presented George Strait with single of the year for "I Saw God Today." The country veteran later nabbed album of the year, for Troubadour. Nashville native Reese Witherspoon was also on hand as a presenter. "I'm having just the greatest time," the actress said before naming Paisley male vocalist of the year.

Miley's beau plays Prince Charming for Taylor Swift

Miley Cyrus’ much older boyfriend, Justin Gaston, even got stage time. Taylor Swift's performance of her hit "Love Story" was one of the night's big highlights, complete with elaborate set, waltzing dancers and Gaston, in the role of a Disney-esque Prince Charming, which he also portrays in her video. Miley gushed on the red carpet that she was ok with “flying solo” because she was excited her two B.F.F’s would be sharing the stage.

Watch Justin and Taylor's performance on the CMA's -

CMA Style Star: Carrie vs. Taylor

The country stars showed off a whirlwind of glam gowns, but who stole the show? Check out Carrie Underwood's and Taylor Swift's looks throughout the night.

American Idol fan found dead near Abdul’s home

One could conclude that Paula Goodspeed, who was found dead near Paula Abdul's home today, killed herself because of her failed season five "American Idol" audition. Her rendition of "Proud Mary" was roundly criticized by Simon Cowell and rejected by Abdul and Randy Jackson. In addition to the criticism on the show, Goodspeed noted on her MySpace page that bloggers had also trashed her appearance. Although the official cause of death has not been determined, the assistant chief of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner indicate that it is a possible suicide. "American Idol" producer Fremantle Media North America declined to comment, but Paula Abdul issued a statement through her publicist: "I am deeply shocked and saddened at what transpired yesterday... My heart and prayers go out to her family."

Scott Wolf & wife expecting baby boy

Scott Wolf and his wife of four years, Kelley, are expecting their first child, a baby boy. The former "Party of Five" star, 40, told Access Hollywood that he and Kelley, 32, who appeared on "Real World: New Orleans," are both very "excited" about becoming parents. Good thing Scott has lots of practice on being a family man from his stint on "Party of Five."

Jimi Hendrix's drummer found dead

Some of you in Cube land may have thought everyone who was part of the Jimi Hendrix Experience had died off a long, long time ago. Consider it: Hendrix died in 1970 and Bass player Noel Redding died in 2003. However, Mitch Mitchell, the band's drummer and the last surviving member of the legendary Jimi Hendrix Experience, continued his drumming and most recent played Friday in Portland at the last stop on the Experience Hendrix Tour. Mitchell was found dead in his hotel room this morning. He was 61.

Knight guide released with WoW expansion

Get excited World of Warcrafters! A WoW Death Knight guide will be released in time for the launch of the Wrath of the Lich King expansion. You can find more info on the guide here. For those who don't know, the Death Knight is the first hero class in WoW that is unlockable by everyone. Duh!

That's it for your break with da Cube!

Until next tomorrow....

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Jen still a little peeved with Jolie

Jennifer Aniston hasn't lost any love for Angelina Jolie. Anniston indicated in a recent interview with Vogue magazine that Angelina should have probably kept her trap shut about various details of her relationship with Brad Pitt during an interview printed in the same magazine a year prior. Angelina, according to comments made by Aniston to People, made a few comments that indicated the Brad and Jen were still married when the romance between Angelina and Brad was blooming.

But when it comes to the players in her life Anniston is a bit more forgiving in her interview with Vogue. When asked about John Mayer she said: "People should mind their own business" and "I feel seriously protective of him and us." When asked about Brad, she said: "The marriage didn't work out..." and "We've been unbelievably warm and respectful of each other."

So let Cube get this straight: According to Jen Aniston it's OK to be an immature and flaky if you're one of her ex-lovers, but not if you're an ex-lover's lover. Meee-Ow!

Joe Jonas Has a New Girlfriend

Awwwww. Joe Jonas has a new girlfriend - Camilla Belle an actress who appeared in "10,000 B.C." and "Lovebug," a Jonas Bro. video. (Something about them meeting on the set of "Lovebug" makes Cubes skin crawl. Must be Cube's cynicism creeping.)

Lohan's turn! She's in love too

Lindsay won't admit she's a lesbian, but she admits to "Harpers Bazaar" she leans both ways... "yeah, maybe" ... and that she loves DJ Samantha Ronson "very much." Lohan's not sure if she'll marry a man or a woman the future, but for now after several treatment centers and a long road to regaining control of her life, she says she's happy. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Now for something a little less cynical...

Jaden Smith to star in 'Karate Kid' remake

Rumors is that Will Smith's son Jaden Smith will play the lead role in Columbia's remake of "The Karate Kid." You might remember Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita starred in the first three "Karate Kid" movies, while the fourth starred Hilary Swank.

Google Flu Tracker

Just in time for flu shot season! Google unveils its newest trend aggregator Flu Trends, which indicates the level of flu activity in an area by monitoring the level of search activity on the subject! Google says: "We've found that certain search terms are good indicators of flu activity. Google Flu Trends uses aggregated Google search data to estimate flu activity in your state up to two weeks faster than traditional systems." Seems activity is low in Virginia and the United States for now. Check it out.

OK That's it!
Cube's extra busy today, so get back to work!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

One more Spears in and out of the hospital

Britney's youngest son is back with his family. The pop star was spotted carrying son Jayden James out of Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center and into a waiting SUV Monday at about 6 p.m., a little more than 24 hours after the 2-year-old was taken to the emergency room after suffering a "bad reaction" to something he ingested. A police officer and security escort guarded Spears, who, according to one eyewitness, "looked totally exhausted." (Well, yes, Britney, parenting is a tiring job, but someone’s got to do it!)

Heidi and Spencer to guest star on ‘How I Met Your Mother’

Good news for all you who were "devastated" by Heidi Montag's "firing" last week on “The Hills.” (We all know her firing was the fakest of all fake “Hills” scenes!) CBS has just confirmed that Heidi is now gainfully employed for one episode of “How I Met Your Mother,” following in the fancy footsteps of last season's headline-generating guest star, Britney Spears. And you'll never guess which bad karma boyfriend will be accompanying her... yup, Spencer. The 15-seconds of fame couple, known as “Speidi,” will be filming this week, but the episode isn’t set to air until January.

Donald Trump hosts Jennifer Hudson

Apparently Donald Trump does have a soft spot on his heart – somewhere. The real-estate mogul has been housing Jennifer Hudson and some of her relatives at the Trump International Hotel & Tower free of charge. (Isn’t that so nice of the billionaire?) "She's a great girl. And we're protecting them well," Trump said. Hudson has been seeking refuge at the Trump holding since her mother, brother and nephew were murdered in Chicago on Oct. 24.

Julia Reed rips Obama supporters

"The one thing I absolutely will not miss is the grating superiority and absolute smugness of Obama supporters who rule the chattering classes," writes Julia Reed on Wowowow.com, "women on the Web" site. Wow! She doesn't read the comments on Cube's sites, where smugness and vitriolic venom swings both ways. In addition to her contributions to Wowowow.com, Julia is the Food and Drink columnist for Newsweek and a contributor to "Vogue," "New York Times," "Book Review" and "Southern Accents."

Looking for Veterans Day info?

Read about how two Portsmouth natives participated in the liberation of Buchenwald concentration camp during World War II. Watch POWs talk about their experiences. Find Veterans Day observations and closings.

More trivia questions on Google Trends

For those who don't know, Google Trends tracks the hottest keyword searches every hour. Lately, weird trivia questions keep showing up in the top 10. Today, the question is "Where was Mozart born?" The answer is Salzburg, Austria, but Cube is still curious about these questions.

Softer side of 'Zack and Miri'

Slashfilm.com blogger Peter Sciretta isn't sure where this alternative poster for Kevin Smith's "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" came from, but Cube is sure it will make some people snicker:

That's it for Cube today
Now... Get it in gear and back to work!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Matt Lauer - not so good at marriage

Meredith Viera embarrassed the heck out of Matt Lauer this morning when after mentioning she married in her 30s, she turned and asked when he married. Matt, who has not been successful in marriage (once divorce and a second marriage on the rocks), responded with an awkward pause. Viera and the crew couldn't stop laughing. You can watch the video here:

And, Cube also thought, maybe, you might want to check out the "Today Show" chat with the leggiest woman in the world (Her legs are nearly 4 feet 4 inches long. Add her upper body, and she stands 6 foot 5 inches tall.):

Also, check out this slideshow of some other records recorded in the "Guinness World Records 2008"

Cheetah Girl removes her spots

Someone stole Adrienne Bailon's laptop last month while she was waiting for a flight at JFK International, according to TMZ.com. Later in the day, a man called saying he would would return the laptop for $1,000. The 25-year-old's record label set up the exchange and retrieved her laptop. However, when she checked the computer a few racy naked photos were missing. You can bet you might find them all online somewhere. Now Bailon is mad and threatening a lawsuit while issuing apologies to her fans.

Commonality: Marines, 'Sesame Street,' Tracy Morgan

What do the Marines, 'Sesame Street' and comedian Tracy Morgan have in common today? All three are celebrating a "birthday" of sorts!

On Nov. 10, 1775, the U.S. Marines were organized under authority of the Continental Congress.

In 1969, the children's educational program "Sesame Street" made its debut on National Educational Television (later PBS).

And Actor-comedian Tracie Morgan turns 40.

Other celebrity birthdays include: Rock singer-musician Greg Lake (Emerson, Lake and Palmer), 61. Actor Jack Scalia, 57. Actor-comedian Sinbad, 52. Actress Ellen Pompeo ("Grey's Anatomy"), 39. Rapper-producer Warren G, 38. Rock singer-musician Jim Adkins (Jimmy Eat World), 33. Actress Brittany Murphy, 31. Rapper Eve, 30. Rock musician Chris Jannou (Silverchair), 29.

Evan Rachel Wood defends split from Marilyn Manson

Evan Rachel Wood is sick of the false reports circulating about why she and Marilyn Manson broke up after two years of dating. "Manson and I both decided to take some time apart so we could concentrate on work. Someone used that opportunity to kick us while we were down and sell a completely false story," the actress, 21, explains in a statement to People magazine. Stories of the couple splitting in a bitter fight over Wood's brother Ira, who had been living with the pair, getting kicked out of the guest house by Manson, 39, started popping up this week. Regardless of whether the brother drama was true, Cube wonders if dating Marilyn Manson alone would be reason enough to run away.

Britney’s got a 'Top Secret Project' under works

With the release of her sixth studio album Circus only three weeks away, Britney Spears is working on a "top secret project" with her manager and choreographer. And apparently it has something to do with hot male dancers. The pop star released four exclusive photos on her new celebrity MySpace page of auditions for male dancers for the new project "in anticipation of next month's Circus." Ohhh…the anticipation. (Cube wonders if she invited K-Fed to audition?)

Jennifer Hudson's ex-bro-in-law to stay behind bars

William Balfour isn't going anywhere. The 27-year-old "person of interest" in the slayings of Jennifer Hudson's mother, brother and nephew has been ordered to remain in prison while police continue to investigate the murders. Balfour has been held at Illinois' Stateville Correctional Center since Oct. 26 on charges of parole violation stemming from a 1999 conviction on attempted murder. At a parole hearing this morning—which could potentially have seen Balfour walk free—the Illinois Prisoner Review Board ruled there was reason to believe he had violated his parole for transgressions unrelated to the Hudson killings, including appearing in places where drugs were sold and, according to his girlfriend, being in possession of a gun that matches the description of the Hudson murder weapon. Dun, dun, dun, dunnn….

Hope you enjoyed a break with Cube Candy...

Until next time!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Britney and Justin reunite on Madonna's tour

Madonna seems to love sharing the stage. After all, she's a giver. (right.) So the Material Girl's Sticky & Sweet tour was made all the more saucy Thursday at Dodger's Stadium when long-ago couple Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake joined her onstage—but not at the same time. Spears shared the spotlight with Madonna on the third song of the night "Human Nature." Then, Madonna's former makeout partner skedaddled from the stage long before her ex-boy toy Justin appeared to sing their Hard Candy tune "4 Minutes." Britney, surrounded by bodyguards of course, immediately took off following Timberlake's appearance. So much for the face time.

Watch Britney shake it with Madge -

'SATC' sequel not a done deal – yet!

Hold the Cosmos – for now, at least. That's the word from Sarah Jessica Parker, who says that a sequel to "Sex and the City: The Movie" is still in the talking stage. Her announcement came just one day after costar Kim Cattrall (Samantha) seemed to hint that the follow-up film was a done deal. Cattrall said, "Yes, there will [be another movie] ... We will do the sequel next summer." But Parker insists Cattrall's words were a bit premature. Regardless, all the SATC fans out there are still stoked at the thought of a sequel.

MTV Europe goes bananas for Britney and Beyoncé

They are hot to trot here and apparently even more so abroad. Europe went nuts for Brit Brit and Beyonce at the recent MTV Europe Music Awards. Though Britney couldn't make it to the show to pick up her two awards—she had a gig with Madonna and Justin Timberlake in L.A.—but the show went on anyway at Liverpool's Echo Arena. Katy Perry hosted the event, and rode a giant banana as well. Why? Because she can. (The girl has a thing for banana's...remember her peeling banana hot suit at the U.S. MTV VMA's?)

Beyonce's Obama joy - offers to sing for Pres-elect

Speaking of "B" - she's ready to rock the White House for Barack. Come Inauguration Day, Beyonce is at the service of Obama. "I'm there. I can't wait. I feel like all of us, we're ready to do whatever we have to do. Whatever they want  - if they need me to volunteer, they need me to sing, I'm there, and I'm ready," a giddy Beyonce said in an interview the day after Barack Obama made history in becoming the nation's first elected black president. The election even brought Beyonce to tears. "I fell asleep crying and smiling at the same time," she laughed. I woke up with mascara running and a smile on my face!" Awww...Cube loves B, and so do all the "Single Ladies."

Want to design a tequila bottle and win 10 grand?

Earlier this year 1800 Tequila launched an inspired campaign featuring nine cutting-edge artists it considers to be Essential. These artists and their artwork were featured as part of a national advertising campaign including print, billboards, internet, and radio, and now each piece of artwork is featured on 1800 limited edition tequila bottles, available nationwide in stores or online. Each artist is different, with work that could’ve been found in the hottest gallery, saved on a computer, or on any wall in any city throughout the world. These are artists that are willing to follow their independent vision. View their pieces on their website.

1800 is on the search for the next essential artists, via an innovative interactive project taking place on their site. Any aspiring artist or fan can upload their art on a custom 1800 bottle and join the competition to win $10,000 and be featured in a national advertising campaign.

Bond Girls: Declassified

There are a few crucial ingredients for a 007 flick: a gadget-laden car, a perfectly tailored tuxedo, a ridiculously evil villain with a similarly ridiculous plan for world domination. But most important are the Bond girls. Whether an ally or enemy, Bond girls almost always look amazing, show their tough and their sensitive sides, and more often than not wind up making out with 007 in a boat. With "Quantum of Solace" hitting the theaters up next week, it's time to crack open the MI6 files on all the women who left Mr. Bond both shaken and stirred.

Have a happy Friday - that's it for Cube. Over and out!

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.

Kate Winslet ‘furious’ over body airbrush claims

Just a day after Kate Winslet revealed in a Vanity Fair interview that she still feels like the "fat kid," critics in her home country are lining up to claim she still is. But the svelte five-time-Oscar-nominee isn't having it. British newspapers such as The Sun ponders on its front page whether "that magic airbrush has been at work again" and the Daily Telegraph got a digital retouching expert to analyze the photos.

But the closest scrutiny comes from the Daily Mail, which engaged a professional airbrush artist to perform an autopsy on Winslet, who was shot wearing heels, black stockings and nothing else. Wowza. Can’t they just let it rest and know the “Titanic” star is a hottie?

Help pick the next White House puppy

One of Barack's campaign promises included that to his daughters Malia and Sasha - to give them a puppy once the family moves into the White House. Help choose an appropriate puppy for the first daughters.

Japanese warrior weapons, No. 1 on Google

Cube is confused. This morning's No. 1 Google Search, according to Google Trends is "what weapon is synonymous with samurai warriors." The second and third most searched terms - "katana swords" and "naginata" - are the answers to the question. Cube wants to know what this is about! Is it a prank or related to a morning television show?

Today is National Men Make Dinner Day

Cube wants to know... We need a day for this? Apparently, we do. The Web site menmakedinnerday.com makes stats that the day is not for men who already regularly make dinner but for man who: helps with household chores; has a sense of humour and is a great all-around guy; loves his wife/girlfriend, kids and pets; ... BUT NEVER LEARNED HOW TO COOK, and is somewhat afraid of the idea." Sounds like a challenge. How many Hampton Roads men will take it? Cube double dog dares ya!

"South Park" Obama

Anyone catch "South Park" last night? Obama, Michelle, McCain and Palin team up to steal the Hope Diamond. Talk about conspiracies! Watch a clip of "South Park" mocking the Obama win celebrations below, and watch the full episode on SouthParkStudios.com.

ADVISORY: Users are solely responsible for opinions they post here and for following agreed-upon rules. Comments do not reflect the views or approval of The Virginian-Pilot or this Web site. Comments are automatically checked for inappropriate language, but readers might find some comments offensive or inaccurate. If you believe a comment violates our rules, click the "Report Violation" link below the comment to alert an editor. Repeat offenders will be denied automatic posting privileges.