Celebuzz » Katharine Mcphee

‘Smash’ Star Katharine McPhee Doubts Karen and Ivy Will Ever Be Friends (EXCLUSIVE)

Andy Scott — Mon, 14 May 2012 18:30:28 +0000

Smash fans were more than thrilled when they heard the news that NBC had renewed the musical drama series for a second season. Still, even with a new set of episodes, it’s unlikely we’ll ever see the feud end between characters Karen Cartwright and Ivy Lynn.

So says star Katharine McPhee, anyway.

“I think it’s going to be pretty challenging for there to be any possible chance of Ivy and Karen ever being friends,” Katharine, who plays Katharine on the series, told Celebuzz in a recent interview. “There’s still a lack of trust from both characters. It’s just about who’s going to get that part, and they can’t really get past that.”

What was it like working with Uma Thurman? Katharine explains after the jump!

Smash, which chronicles the making of a Broadway musical about legendary actress Marilyn Monroe, has been a rare success story for NBC. In addition to receiving rave reviews, the show has allotted many guest stars along the way.

Among the stars: Oscar-nominated beauty Uma Thurman, who joined the show for a five-episode arc as Rebecca Duvall, a movie star who steps in to save the struggling production.

As McPhee explained, even Uma had her own bout of stage fright.

“She was really open on set about how she was really nervous,” she said. “I think it’s sweet she voiced that, because it allowed people to understand the space she was in. She’s so good at being bad on the show.”

Katharine, 28, got her first taste of fame as a contestant on season 5 of American Idol, in which she placed second. It’s an experience she’s often reminded of while filming Smash, thanks to NBC’s other success story, The Voice, which films on a neighboring stage.

“I keep asking them, ‘Are you excited? Is it fun?’” she said, of the times she’s bumped into Voice contestants. “The same questions that I was probably asked a million times. [Laughs] It’s fun to see them cause I’m a fan.”

Smash — which will return to NBC in 2013, at midseason — airs Monday nights on NBC. For more on Smash, read our exclusive interview with Katharine’s co-star, Megan Hilty!

Katharine McPhee and Megan Hilty Film 'smash' on staten island

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Katharine McPhee Is a ‘Hunger Games’ Fan! ‘Smash’ Star Reads Book in Central Park (PHOTOS)

Andy Scott — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 16:17:31 +0000

Katharine McPhee is officially on the Hunger Games bandwagon!

The lovely actress, who currently stars on the hit NBC musical drama Smash, was spotted reading the first book in the series in Central Park on on Wednesday, while hanging out with her dog.

According to her Twitter, Katharine borrowed the book from none other than her Smash co-star, Megan Hilty.

“I am obsessed! Can’t wait to see the movie!” she tweeted.

We can’t, either!

Check out pics of Katharine reading The Hunger Games now!

Katharine McPhee and Megan Hilty Film 'smash' in staten island, ny

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Katy Perry & Kelly Clarkson: Week In Celebrity Cover Songs (VIDEOS)

Jason Scott — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 13:30:15 +0000

It’s already March, and that means that TV’s biggest shows are in full swing. This week, Celebuzz has compiled a list of the top cover songs–most of which are featured on some of our favorite shows. A standout performance on American Idol and a great Florence + the Machine cover on Smash hits the top of our list as well as a rendition of Katy Perry‘s breakup song “Part of Me” that is sure to go viral.

Take a listen to our picks and let us know in the comments which is your fave!

Los Angeles musician Steve Shane is proving that Katy’s song (that is suspected to be about her ex Russell Brand) isn’t just resonating with the females. Check out his take on the track:

In the midst of a controversial week on Idol, Joshua Ledet–resident gospel singer–broke out a church-inspired “When a Man Loves a Woman.” Check it out:

On this week’s drama-packed Smash episode, Katharine McPhee took on Florence + the Machine‘s “Shake it Out” at a bar mitzvah. Take a listen:

Kelly Clarkson‘s Stronger tour is still going, well, strong. This week, she took yet another song request from a fan. Her rendition of Paramore‘s “Only Exception” is a must listen.

On a recent tour stop, Country crooner and former Hootie and the Blowfish singer Darius Rucker covered Prince‘s iconic song “Purple Rain.” Check it out:

On Wednesday (Mar. 14), Lady Antebellum took to the stage in Saskatoon, SK, Canada and took on Aerosmith‘s “Sweet Emotion.” This isn’t the first time the trio has covered this rockin’ track. Check another recent performance of the song:

Snapped on Set: Katharine McPhee & Megan Hilty Wig Out Filming ‘Smash’ (PHOTOS)

Amanda Hasaka — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 17:00:17 +0000

These ladies change their hair ‘dos so much for this TV show, we’re having a hard time keeping up!

Katharine McPhee and Megan Hilty were seen in NYC on the set of the NBC musical drama Smash on Tuesday, and we’re sporting yet another kind of ‘do. The freshman show, set around the production of a Marilyn Monroe based musical, also stars Debra Messing and has boasted guest stars such as Nick Jonas. These two ladies are fighting for the part of Marilyn, and we assume these wigs have something to do with Marilyn when she was still Norma Jeane.

These wigs are definitely a different looks for the raven haired Katharine and the towheaded Megan, but we can’t decided what to call this color!

Would you call this color red? Or brunette? Tell us what you think in the comments!

are these stars better off red?

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Katharine McPhee Channels Marilyn Monroe on the Set of ‘Smash’ (PHOTOS)

Andy Scott — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 20:00:31 +0000

Some like it hot, indeed!

Katharine McPhee did her best Marilyn Monroe impression on the set of Smash Thursday afternoon in New York.

Though she was dressed in an oversized coat, cameras were still able to catch a glimpse of Katharine’s Marilyn, as the singer-actress donned a blonde wig and blue sequined dress. As if she could look any hotter!

Smash has fluctuated in the ratings since its premiere last month. This week, however, it rose 17 percent with about 8 million viewers tuning in.

Check out Katharine McPhee as Marilyn in our gallery now!

Celebrities Channel Marilyn Monroe

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Meet & Greet: Newest ‘SMASH’ Star Leslie Odom Jr. Talks the ‘Astonishing’ Katherine McPhee

Taylor Williams — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 13:00:32 +0000

Welcome back to the Celebuzz Meet & Greet where we talk with rising actors, musicians and entertainers before they hit it big. Watch out for these future A-listers!

Leslie Odom Jr. might not be a household name yet but in a few weeks he’ll be lighting up your radar. Leslie is set to play Ivy Lynn’s (Megan Hilty) best friend Sam Strickland on NBC’s most anticipated show SMASH. The show follows the inner workings of an ambitious Broadway musical that’s based on the life of Marilyn Monroe, and also stars American Idol alum Katherine McPhee.

In addition to SMASH, he also stars in Red Tails with Cuba Gooding Jr., and is set to guest star on the HBO show House of Lies. With all the projects he’s got going, we had to interview this breakout star.

How did you get the role on SMASH?

The role on SMASH came to me really as the culmination of almost 15 years in the game. I mean that. I’ve known Bernard Telsey, the casting director for the show, since I was 16 years old when I showed up at an open call for Rent in Philadelphia. He gave me my first professional gig in that show just a few months later. I had been in meetings with Craig and Neil, our executive producers, for the better part of two years by the time SMASH came around. … And Megan Hilty and I were a year apart at university! It was one of those things. I still had to work hard to get the part, don’t get me wrong. It was just nice to know that I had so many people pulling for me.

The show is about what goes into producing a Broadway show which means lots of singing and dancing. Do you have any musical aspirations?

I come from the theater. It’s where I received all of my formal training. I’d love to do more of it. There are some really wonderful opportunities on the horizon. But, yes, there is nothing quite like live theater. It is my favorite of all the disciplines. And I am convinced there is no better life for an actor than to be a working actor in the theater. You get back in direct proportion to what you put in on stage.

American Idol finalist Katharine McPhee stars in SMASH, did you vote for her when she was on the show?

Ha! You know what, I watched. I didn’t vote but I watched. The only AI finalist that ever made me feel like I had to pick up my phone and text or call or whatever was Fantastia. I had never seen anything like that on such a mainstream show. But McPhee’s work on SMASH is astonishing. I think everyone on that set is a little bit in love with her. I think America’s going to fall in love with her … again. She’s really wonderful.

What’s the craziest audition you’ve been on?

Wow! … um … starting out … before you establish yourself there are many many “crazy” ones. People will disrespect you and your work. Sometimes they’re rude. Dismissive. Brutal. Mean. It’s not for the faint of heart. And even “strong” or determined folks get beat down from time to time. Talented people get tired too. You just have to persevere. I am just so grateful that that stage is over. I hope! I hope it’s over. No more crazy auditions.

Since you’ve done a lot of television roles, is there a show that you’d like to guest star on?

I’d love to be on Mad Men. I’d love to work with [Dustin] Hoffman on Luck. Who wouldn’t? What I really hope is that I get to come back on some shows that I’ve already done. The character that I played on Supernatural was a blast! I hope they bring him back, and House of Lies was amazing. They just got renewed for a second season so I hope they bring my character back for the second season. Some really fun stuff with [Don] Cheadle.

You’ve worked with amazing actors like Don Cheadle and Cuba Gooding Jr., what’s the best advice they’ve given you about the business?

Cheadle told me to work on my own stuff. He told me to always have my own projects that I am working on. CGJ was all about having fun. He told me to just keep having fun.

What actor and or director would you like to work with?

Seriously who wouldn’t I like to work with? I’m still so new to the game you know? It’s taken a decade just to be in consideration for some of the things that I’d like to do. Doesn’t mean that I’ll always get the things I’m interested in, it just means now I can probably get an audition for some of those things. I’d love to work with the greats. … Brilliant people make you better. They challenge you in the work. I’ve gotten to experience that in the business already. I’ll take more of that.

We heard you got engaged via Twitter! How did you pop the question and who’s the lucky girl?

Ah. My fiancé’s name is Nicolette Robinson. She’s also an actress. She’s the kindest, gentlest, warmest, most beautiful human being that I’ve ever known. It was very intimate and private. I planned it that way. It’s an amazing time right now to say the least. I’m enjoying every second.

What’s next for you?

Well the last Sunday and Monday in February are the next times you can catch me on your TV. My character on House of Lies is introduced on episode No. 8, and on SMASH, I will be introduced on episode No. 4. I’ll be on every week after that!

Are you watching SMASH? Let us know in the comments below.

‘Smash’ Star Katharine McPhee Flaunts Flawless Body For SELF Shoot (PHOTOS)

Jason Scott — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:12:23 +0000

Katharine McPhee‘s glowing star keeps getting brighter. As the March cover girl of SELF, the Smash star and American Idol alum reveals what it feels like to be back in the spotlight. “I get the celebrity game now—you can go from being hot to fighting to be seen,” she confesses.

On the small screen, the “Over It” singer is fighting to win the role of Marilyn Monroe in a new musical destined to hit Broadway. It is filled with plenty of singing and, of course, over-the-top drama.

So, everyone wants to know: is there drama behind the scenes?Don’t get too excited, folks. McPhee dishes that there is little drama with her costars, saying:

“It would be good press if we hated each other, but we don’t. Megan [Hilty] and I joke that we should make a fight up. We’d be on the cover of Us Weekly.”

Kat also discusses her long days (which typically begin at 5 A.M. every morning), her move to New York City last August, and getting lost on the subway in Brooklyn. Check out the slammin’ photo gallery above, and let us know in the comments if you think she’s 2012′s break out star.

Even wonder exactly how the brunette beauty channels Marilyn? Check out her and Megan in the gallery below:

celebs channel marilyn

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Snapped on Set: Katharine McPhee & Megan Hilty Film ‘Smash’ in the Big Apple (PHOTOS)

Amanda Hasaka — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:00:50 +0000

Looks like California girl Katharine McPhee is in a New York State on mind!

The American Idol runner-up turned TV star was seen filming her new show, Smash, in NYC on Thursday and was joined by her co-star Megan Hilty.

Debuting on NBC Monday after the ever-so-popular singing competition The Voice, it did pretty well for itself in the ratings department.

According to ratings reports, the show, about the inner workings of a developing Broadway show about Marilyn Monroe, drew around 11.5 million viewers.

stars who channel marilyn

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Did you tune in? What did you think?

Katharine McPhee & Megan Hilty Channel Marilyn Monroe in ‘Smash’ (PHOTOS)

Andy Scott — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:00:34 +0000

In the past couple of months, it seems as if everyone and their mother has been dressing up like Marilyn Monroe. Well, now it’s Katharine McPhee and Megan Hilty’s turn.

Last night, Katharine and Megan showed off their talents in the premiere of NBC’s hotly anticipated new musical drama Smash, about two rival actresses vying for the role of the blonde bombshell in an upcoming Broadway musical.

They now join a growing list of stars who have portrayed Marilyn in one way or another, including Michelle Williams, who just picked up an Oscar nomination for the film My Week With Marilyn.

Who does Marilyn best? Check out Katharine, Megan, Michelle and more in our Celebs Who Channel Marilyn Monroe gallery now, then sound off in the comments!

Also, check out Celebuzz’s exclusive interview with Katharine McPhee, in which she gives us the full scoop on Smash vs. Glee.

Katharine McPhee: ‘Smash’ Is Totally Different From ‘Glee’ (EXCLUSIVE VIDEO)

Andy Scott — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:36:02 +0000

If you’ve paid any attention to TV in the last few months, you’ll know that tonight marks the premiere of NBC’s Smash, a new musical dramedy in which two budding stars compete for the lead role in a Broadway musical about Marilyn Monroe.

One of those stars just happens to be singer-actress Katharine McPhee, who was kind enough to sit down with Celebuzz to give us the scoop on the highly anticipated musical series.

Of course, comparisons have already been made to another musical series, Glee. But will Smash actually be Glee redux? No way, says McPhee.

“Smash is really different from ‘Glee,” she told us. “We are a drama about the making of a Broadway show and all the kind of things that go into making it.”

“All of our songs are really kind of in context of the show,” she added. “Glee has sometimes like six or seven songs in an episode. We have maybe two or three songs. So, it really is still kind of story-driven and character-driven.”

So what songs will Katharine actually be singing? And what was it like to meet Anjelica Huston and Debra Messing? Check out our exclusive video interview now, then be sure to watch Smash when it premieres tonight at 10PM on NBC.

For more on Katharine McPhee, be sure to follow her on Facebook and Twitter!

Katharine McPhee at the 2012 Golden Globes

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Katharine McPhee Sings ‘Beautiful’

Katharine McPhee Jokes With GQ: I Take Off All My Clothes In ‘SMASH’

Taylor Williams — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:00:28 +0000

American Idol season five runner-up Katharine McPhee is about to have a spectacular year. She’s starring in NBC’s highly anticipated show SMASH, which is receiving rave reviews.

On the show, Katharine plays Karen Cartwright, an aspiring actress who wants the lead role in a Broadway show based off the life of Marilyn Monroe.

In the March issue of GQ magazine, due out later this month, Katharine dishes on her new role while looking as sexy as ever. She expalins the 3 reasons why guys should watch the muscial drama:

Reason #1: Your lady does it for you. Now do it for her. “Listen,” McPhee says, “I go see all the guy movies, so now I know I love them. But you have to be open to it. I would say to the girlfriends out there: Just nail him down, make him watch an episode with you.”

Reason #2: It’s not like they’re singing constantly. “I can understand why guys wouldn’t be into Glee. You know, that’s a pretty heavy musical show. That show does, like, six songs in an episode. We’ll do, at most, three.”

Reason #3: “Okay, how about this: What if I tell your readers that in episode five I take off all my clothes?” Sold! But hold on—would it be true? “I mean…no.” McPhee laughs mischievously. “But can’t we just say that?”

SMASH premieres tonight, Feb. 6 at 10 on NBC. Will you be watching? Tell us in the comments below.

Also, check out Celebuzz’s exclusive interview with Katharine in video below.

‘American Idol’ Makeovers: Alumni Before & After Show (PHOTOS)

Jackie Willis — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:30:11 +0000

With the notoriety that comes from being on such a highly watched show like American Idol, inevitably comes a image change. In most cases, a drastic change.

From the season one winner Kelly Clarkson‘s image overhaul, to Jennifer Hudson and Jordin Sparks‘ slim downs, Celebuzz looks back to when we first saw these talented stars hit the stage of American Idol.

Which Idol alum do you think has had the biggest transformation?

'idol' alumni- before they were stars

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Now a new crop of singer’s are vying for the coveted title of American Idol on the hit FOX show that returned to TV this past week for its 11th season. The program’s site boasts that host Ryan Seacrest and returning judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, and Steven Tyler are back.

Check out the season 11 promo below and let us know if you’re tuning in!

Celebrating ‘Smash’ and Some of Hollywood’s Biggest Auditions (VIDEOS)

Celebuzz — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:50:17 +0000

On February 6, Smash will bring you the story of Broadway dreams and all of the hard work, struggles and hurdles that come with making it to the big time. Katharine McPhee will be playing the lead in the NBC show, and she knows a thing or two about auditions — just like most other actors who are now A-listers in the entertainment world.

Want to see some of the most memorable auditions in recent memory? Check out these below!

There may not be an audition more captivating (and viral) than that of Susan Boyle on Britain’s Got Talent. The audition alone made her a worldwide star — something nobody else can really claim.

Speaking of Idol, Kelly Clarkson was the first of them all. And while she’s had hits aplenty since then, check her out during her first audition in front of Simon, Paula and Randy:

Look at the hair on Carrie Underwood! She’s barely recognizable from the country beauty she’s evolved into since winning Idol.

How many girls would have died to be Rachel McAdams in The Notebook? Well, here’s the audition that won her the role.

OK, this one’s out there, but even with his comedic chops, Steve Carrell had to win his way onto the improv-heavy set of Anchorman:

Before Demi Lovato was a teen star, she had to audition just like everyone else. Here’s her Disney casting tape:

Even Scarlett Johansson — yes, the bombshell beauty — worked the audition world during her childhood days. Here she is trying out for the smash hit Jumanji:

Whether you liked the ending of Lost or not, there’s no doubt that Evangeline Lilly was a great casting choice as Kate.

Katharine McPhee Is ‘Smash’-ing in Nude at the 2012 Golden Globe Awards (PHOTOS)

Wes Ferguson — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 23:42:05 +0000

Looking every bit the star on the 2012 Golden Globes red carpet, Katharine McPhee took our breath away in an elegant nude gown that perfectly silhouetted her beautiful figure.

Kat is starring in one of the most anticipated new shows on TV in the upcoming Smash. She plays an aspiring actress auditioning for musical about Marilyn Monroe. The American Idol runner-up showed her sense of humor in House Bunny, now she gets to show a more serious side.

The series will focus on Hollywood hopefuls and all the drama that transpires behind the scenes.

globes best dressed

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Nicole Richie at the 2012 Golden Globes

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Rihanna, Florence & Christina: This Week In Celebrity Cover Songs (VIDEOS)

Laura Franco — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 13:00:25 +0000

It’s the gift that keeps on giving! The holiday season is in full force, and cover song fans are in for quite a treat this week for some awesome renditions.

Whether you’re a fan of former American Idol finalist Katharine McPhee, acoustic rockers Boyce Avenue, indie darling Florence Welsh or legendary funk/R&B artist Prince—you won’t be disappointed. Take a listen to our top cover choices, then sound off in the comments on your favorites!

Katharine McPhee tackles Christina Aguilera‘s empowering hit, “Beautiful” for the upcoming NBC series, Smash, which centers on aspiring Broadway actors and writers and their attempt to put a musical together.

Alternative rock band, Boyce Avenue is known for covering some of today’s mainstream hits. Their piano cover of Rihanna and David Guetta‘s “We Found Love” on YouTube has already garnered almost 3 million views.

Also, you gotta check out this beautiful cover of Rihanna’s “You Da One.” Is it better than the original?

During a live performance on BBC, Florence and the Machine paid tribute to Drake with a rendition of “Take Care.” Florence added her signature ethereal vocals to her version, which almost left fans of Flo and Drizzy wishing the duo would team up for a collaboration.

From one legend to another. Prince‘s current tour setlist consists of a short cover of Michael Jackson‘s 1979 hit, “Don’t Stop Til’ You Get Enough.” Looks like the king of funk is still at the top of his game!

Bunnies, Broadway & Babies: A Guide to NBC’s 2011 Fall Lineup (VIDEO)

Maria Mercedes Lara — Tue, 17 May 2011 14:12:39 +0000

It’s that time of year again – networks are rolling out their new fall line-ups and everyone is trying to figure out which of the new shows will become a hit.

NBC rolled out their new fall line-up last week and they officially presented their new stars and shows to the press at their 2011 Fall Upfront Presentation in New York City on Monday, May 16. Confused about all of these new shows? Check out Celebuzz’s Guide to NBC’s New Fall Line-Up after the jump.

The Playboy Club

Starring: Eddie Cibrian, Amber Heard, Laura Benanti and David Krumholtz.

Synopsis: This new, Mad Men-ish show follows the lives of regulars at the legendary Chicago Playboy Club in the 1960s. The show mainly centers around Nick Dalton (Cibrian) a wealthy playboy who comes to the aid of a wide-eyed Playboy Bunny (Heard) after she accidentally kills a man.

Will it be good: If the show can capture what made Mad Men a hit then it will certainly become a fan favorite. Plus, the mixture of Playboy Bunnies, slick ’60s styling and sexy stars is sure to get people watching.

When it airs: Monday nights at 10/9 c.

Up All Night

Starring: Will Arnett, Christina Applegate and Maya Rudolph.

Synopsis: Can becoming a parent make you actually grow up? That’s what this new comedy attempts to solve as it follows a hard-partying PR mom (Applegate) and her stay-at-home husband (Arnett) as they try to adjust their lifestyle around their new child.

Will it be good: We hope so! With an all-star comedy cast, this show is sure to be funny. However, some critics have complained that the parenting schtick might get old real fast.

When it airs: Wednesdays at 8/7 c.

Smash

Starring: Debra Messing, Katharine McPhee, and Megan Hilty.

Synopsis: This new musical drama – yes, that’s right, drama – centers around the creation of a Broadway musical based on the life of Marilyn Monroe.

Will it be good: Glee made musicals cool again and Smash will definitely appeal to those who want to see the not-so-peppy side of musicals.

When it airs: Monday at 10/9 c. (Midseason)

Whitney

Starring: Whitney Cummings, Chris D’Elia, Zoe Lister-Jones and Maulik Pancholy.

Synopsis: This new multi-camera sitcom follows a young couple (Cummings and Pancholy) who don’t want to ruin their “perfect” relationship by getting married.

Will it be good: Everyone (including Celebuzz) loves Whitney so hopefully she can turn that buzz into a hit show. However, lots of critics are befuddled by the show’s use of a laugh track which seems a little retro compared to NBC’s other strong, laugh-track-less comedies.

When it airs: Thursday at 9:30/8:30 c.

For the full Fall 2011 NBC schedule and more details on other new shows, visit NBC.com.

Will you watch any of these new shows? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Follow Celebuzz on Twitter, Facebook and Tumblr to take the conversation beyond the comments!

Just Married: Celebs and Their Honeymoon Vacations (PHOTOS)

Celebuzz — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 13:30:07 +0000

All of show-biz seemed to have caught wedding fever over the past few days, with everyone from Carrie Underwood to John Krasinski and Emily Blunt to Penelope Cruz getting hitched.

And while show-biz marriages aren’t exactly known for their durability, at least the honeymoons are usually blissful. In honor of this latest wave of celebrity knot-tying, click through the photo gallery to see Kevin Jonas, Tiger Woods, Kendra Wilkinson and other stars enjoying their post-wedding getaways.

BUZZ LINKS: Robert Downey Jr. Talks About His Rise to Fame

Celebuzz — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:15:06 +0000

Robert Downey Jr. talks about his rise to fame. – PopEater

Jessica Alba gets spanked. Enough said. – Socialite Life

Tom Cruise threatens to beat up his fellow Scientologists…awesome! – Superficial

Is Katharine McPhee hotter as a brunette or a blonde? – WWTDD

Katharine McPhee Is Going Through Changes, Y’all

Celebuzz — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:30:34 +0000

Expect to meet a whole new Katharine McPhee when her new album Unbroken hits shelves in January.

The American Idol fave—who already went through a physical transformation for the record—sat down with PopEater recently to talk about her artistic evolution between the release of her eponymous 2007 debut and the recording of its follow-up.

Explains McPhee,

“One thing I wanted to do was really feel like I was singing a song, a melody line. My first record was more of like a pop driven record, but I really just wanted to sing a song with a simple melody. Doug Morris, who’s the head of Universal Music, suggested I go to Nashville, not because I was going to make a country record, but because there’s so many great songwriters. When I went there, I actually cried in one of the songwriting and listening sessions because I was so overwhelmed with this plethora of gorgeous melodies and meaningful lyrics. That was a discovery for me. I was thrilled to be writing with people who had stories to tell.”

Should be interesting to hear how this new approach comes across on record.

Let us know in the comments section: Are you eager to experience the new Katharine McPhee?

Katharine McPhee Debuts New Look For Next Album

Betsy Waldman — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:00:39 +0000

Yes, that’s really Katharine McPhee!

The American Idol alum, famous for her dark hair, shows off her new hairdo in these pictures from the music video for the single “Had it All” from her upcoming album, Unbroken, out October 6.

Pretty fierce.

Check out this behind-the-scenes look at Katharine working on her new album below:

What do you think about Katharine’s new look? Share your thoughts below.