Madonna Shoots Down Claims She Demanded To Bring Horse Into Portuguese Palace

The story of Madonna wanting to bring a horse into a 19th-century palace has been shot down by a representative.

The pop icon, who has been living in Portugal with her four adopted children since 2017, is currently filming the music video for her song, 'Indian Summer'.

However, she was said to have incurred the wrath of Sintra mayor Basilio Horta after she allegedly demanded a thoroughbred horse be allowed into the Quinta Nova da Assuncao palace.

According to the New York Post's Page Six, the 'Material Girl' hitmaker was also criticised by locals for wanting to filmed lying next to the horse inside the atrium of the property, which features delicate tile work and murals.

Horta told Portuguese newspaper Expresso that he was put under enormous pressure by Madonna and her team, who allegedly threatened to call the country's Prime Minister, Antonio Costa, in an effort to gain permission for the horse.

'There are some things that money cannot buy. Under no condition could you let a horse enter the palace... Madonna is an artist, but the palace belongs to everyone and is not to be spoiled,' the mayor told the outlet. 'A Portuguese national would not have dared to try this. I take... equality very seriously.'

He emphasised that no horses should be allowed into the palace because the wooden floors and beams of the property were not strong enough, and the animal could damage the building.

A representative for Madonna has denied that she made the demands, and insisted the story is '100 per cent made up'.

From an article by Ace Showbiz

Madonna’s farewell from Portugal turns sour over row involving a horse

Madonna is at the center of a fresh controversy in Portugal, just as she is set to leave the country. The singer has accused the Portuguese of being ungrateful, an accusation that they have thrown right back at her. And the culprit behind this latest row? A horse, which was not allowed inside a palace for a music video.

Madonna, who has been living in Portugal since 2017, was set to film a video for the song 'Indian Summer' in the Quinta Nova de Assunção palace in Sintra, a resort city near Lisbon.

The pop star’s attitude has incensed Portuguese authorities, who have reminded her of all the things they’ve done for her during her stay

Last week however, Sintra City Hall said the pop star could use the palace from March 15 to 20 but could not let a horse inside. The decision reportedly left her outraged.

In the script for the music video, Madonna was meant to pose next to the animal on the ground. But local authorities said a horse would threaten the safety of the building, given its wooden floor sits upon wooden beams and is 'unstable, which prevents it from being used for activities that cause vibrations.'

Madonna called her agent to complain about what was happening. 'My Queen, I am doing everything I can. I have called many people and sent various messages. Unfortunately the man who makes the decision is not available, but he will be,' he replied, according to messages revealed by the Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manhã.

Annoyed, Madonna responded that she didn’t have to wait and would film somewhere else. 'I’ve already given a lot to this country and when I ask for a simple favor, one which will present Portugal to the world, the answer I get is negative,' she told her agent, adding: 'This is your fault. You convinced me to come live here.'

It emerged in February that Madonna would be leaving Portugal in the next few months, to move to New York. A fleet of cars carrying suitcases was recently seen leaving the four-star Palacio Ramalhete hotel in Lisbon, where the singer has been staying for the last year.

The pop star’s attitude has incensed Portuguese authorities, who have reminded her of all the things they have done for her during her stay in the country. For example, Lisbon City Hall gave Madonna a reduced price on a parking spot; the soccer club S.L. Benfica welcomed her son so that he could practice regardless of his level; the international school Lycée Français Charles Lepierre accepted the singer’s twin girls even though there was a waiting list; and the Portuguese government fast-tracked her residency.

From El Pais

Is a Drake and Madonna collaboration is finally in works?

It is a mystery how it’s taken ’til now for Madonna and Drake to start talking about a collaboration. They’ve already snogged, and he’s written a song about her, so it’s about time they got in the studio together.

It’s been claimed that as both are currently in town - Drake’s been in London thanks to his surprise Wireless appearance, and Madonna’s here recording her new album - and so it looks like they might be able to make something work.

A source told the Daily Star newspaper: ‘Drake and Madonna are set to make some music together. ‘Madonna is in London putting the finishing touches to her new album and Drake promised to work with her on something.’ Well this will be a treat.

In 2015, the pair caused a stir when they shared a kiss on stage at Coachella. That same year, Drake wrote a song called Madonna, which featured on his mixtape If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late. She loved it, thankfully, and now three years later is ready to lay down a track with him. She said at the time: ‘I love your new song about me! It’s my favourite! I’m still waiting for you to pick me up.’

Madonna was spotted loving Wireless this weekend as she cheekily had a strut across the stage while Migos played. The 59-year-old pop legend couldn’t help herself as the trio Migos performed track Stir Fry. The pop queen is currently rumoured to headline next year’s Glastonbury Festival. Perhaps Migos will be hanging out on her stage that time around. Madonna also recently teased the release of her next album, with her last release being 2015’s Rebel Heart.

From Metro.co.uk

Idris Elba tells Madonna fans not to believe the hype

Idris Elba and Madonna sparked speculation that they are dating after the pair were reportedly spotted kissing after the Luther star participated in a boxing match.

The couple were spotted together at London's M restaurant on Friday night following the actor's fight which was filmed for his upcoming TV show Idris Elba: Fighter.

She also shared a snap of herself lying on the floor with the actor, writing: 'I kicked his butt'.

The pair met for the first time back in 2015 after he DJ'd for her Rebel Heart tour. Opening up about meeting her while promoting Luther, the actor said: 'I was excited, I had a great time. Madonna is a legend. I got there, I met a beautiful person that has been working for ever and ever, amen, and is still going.'

However on Monday, Idris responded to the rumours by posting this tweet:

Am I sleeping with Madonna? No motherfuckers... "Don't believe the Hype".

— Idris Elba (@idriselba) 31 October 2016

Madonna blows off steam in New York

Despite her bitter custody battle over teen son Rocco with her ex, Guy Ritchie, Madonna was 'in a great mood' when she arrived at 11 p.m. at Omar’s in the West Village on Tuesday night with Givenchy designer Riccardo Tisci.

Spies said she came in a 'flowing white dress' and was 'makeup-free.'

Madge and Tisci headed to a back room, where they met up with R&B singer Maxwell and 'several male models.' One spy added, 'She asked the chef to prepare special pasta for her with veggies, which was not on the menu.'

Maxwell DJ’d and got people dancing to his own tunes. Around 1:30 a.m., he put on Madonna’s 'Like a Prayer.' The group stayed until 3 a.m.

Madonna posted a pic with Tisci and the caption, '2 Italian Leo’s . . . Don’t mistake our kindness for weakness.'

From Page Six

2 Italian Leo's. 👑👑🔫. Don't mistake our kindness for weakness. 😂 pic.twitter.com/ahlTfnYNvL

— Madonna (@Madonna) 30 March 2016

Madonna is given 'backstage ban' after tweeting during show

Madonna has been slapped with a backstage ban due to her lack of theatre etiquette, according to reports.

The Queen of Pop had attended the evening performance of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s acclaimed off-Broadway musical Hamilton, but was not invited to meet the cast afterwards because she kept using her phone during the show, reported Playbill.com.

Lin-Manuel tweeted a post, which was later deleted: 'Tonight was the first time I asked stage management NOT to allow a celebrity (who was texting all through Act 2) backstage. #noselfieforyou.'

A source told Playbill.com that the singer arrived late to the performance at The Public Theatre’s Newman Theatre, and was seen using her phone throughout the first and second acts.

The Emmy-winning actor is well-known for taking celebrities, including First Lady Michelle Obama, backstage for a post-show picture with the cast.

Madonna has not mentioned the snub or referred to the show on Twitter.

This isn’t the first time the Grammy-winning singer has been in trouble over her phone etiquette.

She was banned from Alamo Drafthouse cinemas in October 2013, after reports that she was texting during a New York Film Festival screening of 12 Years A Slave.

From SNAP.PA Via Yahoo! News

Madonna bumps into Rihanna while out with Timor

Despite rumors of a split, Madonna stepped out with boy toy Timor Steffens Sunday night.

They were with an entourage seeing 'Sleep No More' at the McKittrick Hotel before heading to the Gallow Green rooftop, where they “snuggled” over dinner.

As Madonna left, she happened to run into Rihanna, who was taking a studio break.

'They smiled and laughed, then went their separate ways,' a spy said.

Madge has also been in the studio recording with producers including DJ Dahi, Blood Diamonds and Diplo.

From Page Six / New York Post

Madonna has a diva moment that only Madonna could have

Madonna had a fabulous diva moment at Jeremy Scott’s Fashion Week party at Space Ibiza New York - insisting that a spotlight beaming down on her be switched off.

Although usually comfortable in the spotlight, the Queen of Pop objected to the beam in a VIP area at the hot new club. Sources at the party said club management urgently tried to find a way to turn it off.

One spy said, 'Madonna didn’t want it on her. Managers couldn’t turn it off individually, so club owner Carlo Seneca stood on the banquette, unscrewed the bulb and presented it to Madonna as a gift from the opening.' The Midtown West spot opens to the public on Friday.

We’re told a casually dressed Madonna, 56, had arrived at about 1:30 a.m. Thursday with a dancer in tow following a recording session with DJ Diplo and seemed 'in a cranky mood because she and Diplo didn’t finish their track.' But she did get into the DJ booth with Diplo and Skrillex, and later sat at her table with the dancer, texting for nearly an hour.

From Page Six / NYPost.com

Madonna wanted for UK X Factor performance

It would be her X Factor debut, as Madonna is rumoured to be lined up for a live performance on the UK's ITV talent show.

With Simon Cowell returning to the judging panel, alongside Cheryl Cole, it would seem the music mogul is pulling strings for some A-list guests.

Madonna has never appeared on any kind of talent show before, but it seems the queen of pop is set to make her debut this autumn.

A source told The Sun: 'It's looking very hopeful Madonna will perform, possibly in November on one of the live shows. There are a lot of big names releasing music at that time, but she's absolutely the number one name we are trying to secure.'

They added: 'She needs her next album to be a success in the UK and a performance on ITV in front of 12 million people would be the best platform.'

Madonna is reportedly being lined up for the much-coveted live final performance - but she's not alone.

X Factor producers are reportedly sweet-talking Irish rockers U2 and British superstar Adele for the slot.

From www.express.co.uk

Madonna and Lady Gaga clash over Berlin Wall show?

Lady Gaga and Madonna are said to have clashed over a performance to mark the fall of the Berlin Wall.

The two pop superstars are both keen to sing at a special event to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the historic collapse which united Germany on November 9.

A source told the Daily Star newspaper: 'Madonna and Gaga are equally desperate for the honour of performing. They both like to think of themselves as very political, and will also have new albums to promote by then.'

The pair have clashed in the past over claims the 'Applause' hitmaker has copied Madonna's image, and it is said the 'Papa Don't Preach' singer is the favourite to perform at the event.

The insider added: 'It could reignite their long-running feud as the date draws nearer because neither are used to being told no. However, it's highly likely organisers would choose the Queen of Pop over Gaga, if push came to shove.'

From contactmusic.com

Madonna gets parking fine while at Chiltern Firehouse

It seems that Madonna got into a spot of bother while visiting celebrity haunt Chiltern Firehouse on Saturday night.

The singer was fined after leaving her chauffeur driven car on double yellow lines when she stepped into the restaurant to eat.

Joining the likes of A-listers such as the Beckhams, Lindsay Lohan, Rita Ora and Cara Delevingne, Madonna wore her hair up and a pair of dark shades to Chiltern.

When she finally left, she was probably not too pleased to find a ticket left on her windscreen by a traffic warden.

It’s not the first time that Madonna has found herself in trouble when it comes to parking in the capital.

The 'Like a Virgin' star has reportedly previously racked up a fine of £2,500 while asking her driver to wait for her on a yellow line while she attended a London gym.

From www.standard.co.uk

Madonna dines with Lourdes and Carlos Leon in NYC

All in the family! Madonna may have split from her ex Carlos Leon more than 15 years ago, but she met him for dinner with their daughter Lourdes just this week.

The trio reunited in New York City on Thursday, June 19, dining at Manhattan's trendy downtown lounge and restaurant, Beauty & Essex. Madonna, 55, arrived in a NYC-chic look, an onlooker tells Us, wearing a black top, black pants, and horn-rimmed glasses. See pics of Lourdes and Madonna through the years.

Madonna's eldest child Lourdes, 17, who graduates from LaGuardia High School this month, kept it casual in a T-shirt and shorts, and slung a backpack over her shoulder. Hunky trainier and actor Leon, 47, rocked a silver pendant on a chain over a blue T-shirt with a pair of jeans.

An observer tells Us that the modern family 'looked like they were having a great time," and spent the evening "laughing, joking, and enjoying each other's company.'

During their Beauty & Essex feast, the trio dined on basil pesto ravioli, the restaurant's take on a New York pretzel, salt & vinegar fries, kale and apple salad, and a crispy eggplant pizzetta.

One item was purposefully absent from their menu, however. An onlooker at the restaurant spills to Us that the Material Girl was asked before they were served if she had any allergies or dietary restrictions. As only she could, Madonna reportedly answered simply, 'Ignorance.'

From www.usmagazine.com

Inside Madonna's A-List Oscar Party

Madonna's annual post-Oscars party was the place to be after Sunday night's show. The bash, held at her pal Guy Oseary's Los Angeles home, went on until 4 a.m. Celebrities were 'wall to wall,' a guest tells PEOPLE. 'Everyone was dancing, mingling and eating.'

Academy Award winners past and present let loose and dined on dishes such as Caesar salad, penne pasta with red sauce, rice and chicken in a curry sauce and potato knishes, served buffet style. Best Actor winner Matthew McConaughey and his wife Camila were inseparable.

Julia Roberts and husband Danny Moder 'were lovey dovey together,' the partygoer adds, explaining that by the time Roberts arrived, she had ditched her Givenchy gown and 'took all her glam off.'

The show's host, Ellen DeGeneres, and wife Portia de Rossi were relaxed and 'just hanging out,' says the guest, while Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem showed off pictures of their 7-month-old daughter Luna to friends.

It was also a destination for other A-list couples like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, newly engaged Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, Leonardo DiCaprio and Toni Garrn, Jennifer Lawrence and Nicholas Hoult, and Nicole Richie and Joel Madden.

Even Madonna's ex, Sean Penn, popped into the party with girlfriend Charlize Theron. The new couple were 'hugging and very sweet together,' says the source. Also among the revelers: Bette Midler, Meryl Streep, Jamie Foxx, Miley Cyrus and Pink.

But it was Jared Leto and Lupita Nyong'o who brought the most coveted dates of the night: their 13 ½-inch-tall golden statuettes.

Madonna, whose kids also attended the party, changed her outfit at least twice and wore diamonds – lots of them: 'Diamonds, diamonds and diamonds on both wrists, and a headband,' says the source.

From People.com

Madonna on crutches after high heel injury

Madonna has been spotted hobbling in pain, on crutches, into her Upper East Side townhouse after a trip to the posh ski resort of Gstaad.

Madge took a nasty fall on the slopes before she celebrated New Year’s at the glam villa of Valentino, along with her new boy toy Timor Steffens.

She and Steffens partied aboard a yacht in his hometown of Rotterdam last week.

Her rep told us, 'She bruised a bone in her foot from dancing in her high heels . . . she’ll be fine and off crutches in a week.'

From New York Post

Madonna visits Timor's hometown

Looks like the press are not going to stop gossiping about Madonna's 'new boyfriend' as this article from Contact Music shows:

Madonna has visited her new boyfriend's hometown. The 'Material Girl' singer's relationship with backing dancer Timor Steffens - who was first spotted with her as they spent Christmas skiing with her family in Gstaad, Switzerland - is hotting up as they visited Rotterdam in the Netherlands together last week.

The pair stayed in a luxury yacht previously owned by opera singer Maria Callas which has been converted into a hotel and also dined at an exclusive sushi restaurant. Owner of the yacht, Willem Post, said he only recognised the 'Music' singer when she came to breakfast.

He said: 'A blonde woman in an expensive bathrobe and a young guy came to the table ... When I realised it was Madonna, I pretended I didn't recognise her. I only spoke with her briefly. She found Rotterdam a beautiful city with unique architecture and was interested in the history of the ship.' The couple were later seen eating at Japanese restaurant Ono.

According to RadarOnline.com, a waitress said: '[Madonna] came in with her hood up and a thick jacket, so I did not recognise her. But then I saw Timor, and I though, 'Oh that must be Madonna.' Another waitress added: 'They were very cozy together and held hands.'

Madonna, 55, was also seen kissing the 26-year-old dancer. While in the city the budding couple didn't get time to visit Timor's mother, but she is happy about his new relationship, saying their holiday is 'something you do with someone you cherish, that you can talk to and be intimate with.'

Madonna and Timor dine out in Rotterdam

Dutch TV show RTL Boulevard reported the news that Madonna and Timor Steffens were spotted dining together at Ono in Rotterdam this week.

It was also reported that Timor's mother had stated that she not sure to know what exactly is going on between Madonna and her son but it seemed obvious to her that is was more than just a meal!

Madonna was reported to be staying at Hotel New York in the city while visiting the dancer.

Picture from RTL Boulevard / thanks to Arend

However Madonna's rep has stated to the Gossip Cop website that 'it’s all crap' about a relationship between Madonna and Timor.

Mmmm....

Madonna and daughter Lourdes party after ‘Grease’

Madonna threw an after-party for her daughter ­Lourdes Leon following her final performance in LaGuardia High School’s production of 'Grease.'

The Material Mom was spotted in the audience at the musical Sunday 'in sunglasses for the whole show,' before bringing Lola, who played the character of Rizzo, and 10 of her friends to an 'apres-ski themed' lounge at the Hudson Hotel.

'Madonna toasted with champagne,' said a witness, while 'the kids all had pink lemonade.'

Fronm Page Six / New York Post

Madonna Slams 'Enslaver' After She's Chided for Texting

Madonna was feisty at the New York Film Festival premiere of Steve McQueen’s acclaimed '12 Years a Slave.'

A spy said that as the movie began, 'a blonde in black lace gloves wouldn’t stop texting,' seated in a row with Jason Ritter, J. Alexander and Michael K. Williams.

Finally, an audience member asked the blonde to stop, and the gloved one shot back: 'It’s for business . . . enslaver!' During a roaring standing ovation, the blonde ducked out, and, 'Sure enough, in black lace gloves, was Madonna!'

But it seems that the Material Girl was a fan of the film. Another spy said that as the credits rolled and she tried to swiftly make a dash from the theater, Madonna heard director McQueen’s voice as he began a Q&A. She was overheard saying, '‘I want to hear Steve speak,’ then rushed back in for the Q&A,' the source said.

From New York Post / Page Six

Madonna's Rep Denies Engagement Rumour

A spokesperson for Madonna has shut down a tabloid report suggesting the pop icon is engaged.
Editors at In Touch magazine claimed the Material Girl is ready to take her romance with 25-year-old Brahim Zaibat to the next level by getting married.
Madonna was even said to have introduced the back-up dancer as her 'fiance' during a visit to the Kabbalah Centre in New York last week, with a purported source insisting, 'She looked so happy and didn't try to keep it a secret. It was like she wanted everyone to know she was going to marry this man.'
However, a representative for the star has now set the record straight, telling GossipCop.com the engagement report is 'not true at all'.

From contactmusic.com

Madonna’s intimate Brooklyn dinner date

Madonna had an intimate dinner in Brooklyn with boy toy Brahim Zaibat this week. Spies saw Zaibat cooling his heels Wednesday at Antica Pesa in Williamsburg, waiting for the Material Girl to show.
Madge later arrived in a 'floral dress, looking simple but chic,' spies said, and the couple took over a corner table and kept a low profile. The 54-year-old star and her 25-year-old lover have been together for nearly three years. A spy saw them 'kiss a few times' with Zaibat’s 'arm around her.'
The sweet scene was a far cry from the clip Madonna released earlier in the day of her “secret project” with Steven Klein that showed her in black underwear firing a gun at the head of a hunky male dancer.

From New York Post / Page Six

Madonna left baffled by Nile Rodgers' lack of interest

Nile Rodgers has revealed that Madonna was once annoyed with him for not having sex with her.
The musical icon claimed that the singer was upset that he never tried to seduce her while co-producing her classic album Like a Virgin. He told The Sun: "I was standing at an elevator when she goes, 'Why don't you want to f**k me?'
I was like, 'What did you just say to me?' She was wondering why I had not propositioned her. She couldn't understand that. It was like, 'Everybody wants me'.
He continued: "One time I slept with a really beautiful artist I was working with and it was a really wrong thing to do. So, I didn't work like that."
However, Madonna and Rodgers have remained good friends over the years. He said: "I grew as close to Madonna as I've ever been to a woman without being romantically involved.
"She was the most driven person. The day I met her she said, 'I'm going to be a really big superstar'."
Rodgers added that Madonna helped him quit taking drugs and alcohol after he passed out at her 38th birthday party.
He said: "I don't remember any of this. But I was told I was carried out of Madonna's house.
"It was the most embarrassing night of my life. I have never had a drink or taken drugs since."
Rodgers recently topped the UK singles chart with Daft Punk on their huge hit 'Get Lucky'.

From www.digitalspy.co.uk

Madonna rocks Brooklyn

Madonna shocked diners at a Williamsburg restaurant when she arrived for one of her dancers’ birthdays. The scene was gourmet Antica Pesa, where the Material Girl was seen - with her kids Lourdes and Rocco in tow - dressed down in a hat and glasses and wearing leather gloves.
After a birthday cake dessert, the dancers had the staff close the restaurant’s curtains and make a dance floor for them. 'They started showcasing some of the moves from their MDNA tour,' said a gobsmacked spy. 'The staff quickly moved the tables out of the way to turn the dining area into a dance floor, which got everyone clapping and cheering, including Madonna, who watched from a table.'
Tom Hardy of 'The Dark Knight Rises' was also at the Brooklyn outpost of the Rome eatery and looked as surprised as the rest of the customers, a source said. Madonna’s group tried to persuade Rocco to join them, but he refused. After cutting a rug to Madge tunes including 'Music,' the dancers 'took a bow and hugged their boss, who approved like a proud mother.'

From New York Post

Madonna's A-List Bash a Truly Hot Ticket

No matter what some may think of her, Madonna still has it.
Her post-Oscar party was jam-packed with the biggest of celebs.
So who was there?
Past Oscar winners like Sandra Bullock, Colin Firth, Jodie Foster and Jack Nicholson packed the Gucci-sponsored party, which took place at her manager Guy Oseary's house.
The music biz was well represented by Gwen Stefani, Sean 'Diddy' Combs, Dave Grohl and Pharrell Williams.
Rounding out the guest list were Kate Hudson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Heidi Klum, Michelle Williams, Jonah Hill, Chris Evans, David and Victoria Beckham, Kristen Wiig and Ashton Kutcher. The Descendants director Alexander Payne brought along his new Oscar. Talk show host/newsman Anderson Cooper was also there.

From E! Online - thanks to John

Madonna gives away Gucci presents at Oscar party

Madonna gave away custom-made Gucci luggage at her post-Oscars party Sunday night.
The 'Give Me All Your Luvin' singer - who has hosted a bash at her manager Guy Oseary's home after the Academy Awards for the last five years - had an artist come over from Italy to create the special presents for guests.
A source told the New York Post newspaper: 'A Gucci artisan from Florence, whose workbench will be set up on-site, will hand-emboss initials of attending Oscar winners, nominees and special guests on signature pieces of luggage as celebratory gifts.'
Among those invited to attend were Angelina Jolie and her partner Brad Pitt, Natalie Portman, Jennifer Lopez and Tom Cruise.

From www.monstersandcritics.com

Madonna, Demi Moore light up CAA Golden Globes bash

Madonna attended the pre-Golden Globes party hosted by talent agency CAA in Los Angeles on Saturday night.

Madonna sat on the rear patio in a form-fitting red dress and motorcycle gloves with Demi Moore and some agent types, and kept cool as a cucumber when Moore's ex Ashton Kutcher breezed in with his newly shaved face.

To view a picture of Madonna with Demi visit latimesblogs.latimes.com/gossip

Madonna Brings Her Own Bottle To Dinner

Madonna took her own wine when she went out to dinner on Saturday night.
The 53-year-old singer and her boyfriend Brahim Zaibat dined out at the Osteria Cotta on New York's Upper West Side, and surprised fellow guests when she whipped out her own bottle of alcohol and two crystal glasses.
An onlooker told the New York Post newspaper: 'She brought her own red wine in a bag, along with two beautiful crystal glasses.'
'They poured the wine and immediately put the bottle back in the bag, so nobody could see what it was. At the end, they took the empty wine bottle and the glasses with them. We couldn't figure out if Madonna prefers specific wine or is a total germaphobe.'
The couple ordered an arugula salad, pizza margherita, bruschetta and a side of roasted cauliflower.
When they finished, the 25-year-old dancer picked up the bill and paid by credit card, and the 'Celebration' hitmaker ordered him to tip well.
Madonna recently claimed she will only date men who her children - Lourdes, 15, Rocco, 11, David, six, and Mercy, five - will respect.
She said: 'It's important that my children admire and respect this partner that I would choose for myself. Especially for my sons, who have their father but they need a male role model as well.'
'So I need to keep this in mind: What is this person modelling to my sons, what kind of man is he, what values does he have, what energy is he giving off? Because they are impressionable. It's so important.'

From contactmusic.com

Madonna eyes house in Verona?

Madonna is eyeing a house in the northern Italian city of Verona, local sources said last week.
'I confirm the American pop star's interest but I cannot add anything else,' said Milan realtor Alessandro Proto, known for selling a villa to Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie in Valpolicella, near Verona, and a penthouse outside Turin to Leonardo DiCaprio.
The oak-beamed, fully furnished property is said to be a 500-square-meter penthouse facing Piazza delle Erbe in the city's center. It has two stories plus a loft, six bedrooms, five bathrooms, a kitchen, an office, and a fireplace inside a living room with a view.
The potential deal is estimated to be more than 10 million euros.

From ANSA.it - thanks to Manuel

Madonna And Zaibat 'Still Together'?

Madonna has silenced rumours of a split from her toyboy lover Brahim Zaibat after she was reportedly spotted enjoying a romantic date with the hunky dancer in New York this week.
The pop superstar is said to have started dating the 24-year-old Frenchman after he was hired to dance at the launch of her Material Girl fashion line in September, but last month they were rumoured to have parted ways.
However, the pair put the gossip behind them with a night out at a restaurant in New York on Monday 30 May.
They reportedly enjoyed a meal at Manhattan eaterie Miss Lily's, with a source telling New York Post gossip column Page Six, 'They came together and drank champagne. They stayed for a long time and left together pretty late.'

From contactmusic.com

Madonna: No photos, please

Madonna banned photographers from taking pictures of her at a MoMA party Monday night because she 'didn't feel she looked her best,' sources told us.
The newly single star sneaked in through a private entrance sporting black Henry Kissinger-like frames, red lipstick and a black blazer which made her look like a hot grad-school teacher.
Otherwise, it was 'Upstairs, Downstairs' at the party thrown with PS1 and Volkswagen. Madonna, James Franco and A-listers Lou Reed, Patti Smith, Yoko Ono and Marina Abramovic supped on a private balcony while taking in performances by violinist Hahn-Bin and Martha Wainwright. Below, guests invited to the after-party waited and waited for the behind-schedule dinner to wrap. One photographer got fed up and took off. The after-party people chilled in the garden until a downpour began. And Madonna, whose rep didn't get back to us, must have gone back underground.

From the New York Post

Madonna, Rihanna and Paul McCartney party together

After turning it out at the Met Costume Insitute Gala, Beyoncé and hubby Jay-Z partied uptown at Anna Wintour's bash at Crown. The two were the first to arrive, and they hit the dance floor after saying hi to DJ Cassidy, who spun tunes at the bash. Downstairs, Madonna, Rihanna and Paul McCartney hung out together, and McCartney kept requesting Michael Jackson songs. The trio were the last to leave the star-studded bash - which also drew out Kanye West, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen - around 3 a.m.

From People.com - thanks to Alex

Lindsay Lohan kept out of Madonna Oscar party

Madonna's and Demi Moore's Oscar party was no country for Lindsay Lohan.
Sources tells us the beleaguered beauty - who was recently charged with felony grand theft for allegedly stealing a $2,500 necklace from a jewelry store - was turned away from the diva duo's soiree at talent manager Guy Oseary's Beverly Hills home Sunday night, and not even handsome hottie Josh Brolin could get her inside.
Lohan showed up uninvited to the party around 11 p.m. with her brother Michael and her security detail. According to one insider, she was confident she would get in because Oseary is an executive at the talent management firm Untitled Entertainment, which represents her as well as Moore and Madonna.
Alas, the connection proved useless. Lohan was told she could not join the party.
To make matters worse, we hear that as she was pleading her case, Brolin rolled up and was shot down in his gallant attempt to help.
After the 'True Grit' actor greeted her with a kiss on the cheek, LiLo asked Brolin if he could get her in the door.
Brolin obliged, but another source familiar with the incident tells us the party's gatekeepers firmly held their ground.
We're told Brolin reacted by saying, 'Don't you know who this is?'
The door people replied that yes, they did know who Lohan was - and she wasn't coming in.
Even Brolin's insistence that 'She's with me' fell on deaf ears. Eventually he ambled inside without her, leaving the recently rehabbed actress to proclaim, 'This is so humiliating.'
Lohan eventually gave up on getting inside and headed to the post-Oscars party that James Franco was supposed to be hosting at Supperclub on Hollywood Blvd. The club adjoins the Writers Room, a bar in which Franco has said he's a partner.
Spokespersons for Lohan, Madonna, Moore and Brolin did not respond to our requests for comment by deadline.

From the NY Daily News

Madonna continues the dance with boy toy Brahim Zaibat

Madonna is still going strong with her latest boy toy. Her Madgesty, 52, and dancer Brahim Zaibat, 24, were spotted at the Ava Penthouse Lounge at the Dream Hotel on Thursday night.
A source told us, 'Madonna showed up to help celebrate her kabbalah teacher, Eithan Yardeni. But she brought some of her dancers, including Brahim. They hung out drinking Veuve Clicquot Rose until 1 a.m.' Zaibat met Madonna in September, when he was dancing at the launch of her and daughter Lourdes' line of clothes at Macy's.

From NYPOST.com

Madonna steps out with back-up dancer Brahim Zaibat

It seemed she had settled down once and for all with toy boy Jesus Luz.
But now Madonna has stepped out with a new younger man, confirming reports she has ended her relationship with Brazilian model Luz.
The 52-year-old singer was photographed leaving a cinema in New York with backup dancer Brahim Zaibat last week, whom she is thought to have been dating for the past 'few months'.
A source told gossip website X17Online.com: 'They've been seeing each other for a few months but really keeping it on the down low. Madonna did not want this getting out before she had time to see if things were really going to work out between her and Brahim or not.'
The new pictures come after it had been claimed Madonna was dating another of her backup dancers with the same name - Brahim Rachiki.
It is claimed Madonna was furious after it was reported she was dating Rachiki, and decided to set the record straight about the identity of her new boyfriend.

To read the full report and see a (very grainy) picture of Madonna and Brahim out in New York City visit www.dailymail.co.uk

Madonna dating tour choreographer?

Madonna has reportedly struck up a relationship with a male dancer 19 years her junior.
The pop icon, who split from former lover Jesus Luz in February, sparked rumours of a romance with her 'Sticky & Sweet' tour choreographer Brahim Rachiki after the two were seen 'sneaking kisses and laughing' at a New York nightclub on Thursday.
A source told Page Six: 'They came in together and were holding hands in a private area. Madonna got up and was dancing for an hour straight before going back to her man. They immediately started making out in front of other guests.'
The insider reports that the pair then moved to another club in Greenwich Village, where they continued to show off their affection for one another.
'After working the dance floor, they found more private seating where they hugged and kissed for the rest of the night.'

From Digital Spy

Madonna 'set to move back to London'

More gossip from the London press today (Evening Standard), this time reporting that Madonna is thinking of moving back to London!

Madonna is reportedly planning to move back to Britain.
The singer - who relocated from London to New York following her divorce from film director Guy Ritchie in 2008 - is currently in London directing her new movie 'W.E.', about late British monarch King Edward VIII's decision to abdicate the throne for his American divorcee lover Wallis Simpson.
Despite originally planning to only stay for the six-month shoot, Madonna has rediscovered her love for the UK capital and told ex- husband Guy she wants to move back to Britain for good.
An insider told the Daily Star: 'Guy says she talks about their home in Wiltshire, the kids and their friends in London. She seems nostalgic for her old life. She had built up a big circle of friends and fell in love with London. She'll always love New York but she feels more at ease in London.'
Madonna - who has four children, Lourdes, 13, Rocco, nine, Mercy, five, and four-year-old David - is believed to be keen to move back to Britain so she can reconnect with her old friends.
The source explained: 'The person she spends most time with is her daughter Lourdes but she is desperate for more adult company.'

Paltrow's rep denies Madonna row

Gwyneth Paltrow has reportedly not ended her close friendship with Madonna.
The Iron Man 2 star's representative has dismissed a report claiming that Paltrow and Madonna have cut ties following a major row.
A source recently told Us Weekly that their friendship has been deteriorating since the popstar split from Guy Ritchie in 2008 and they now have no contact at all.
However, Paltrow's rep told Gossip Cop that the rumour is false.
'[It's] not true. [They are] still friends,' said the spokesperson.
A rep for Madonna also dismissed the report as 'BS'.

From Digital Spy

Madonna and Jesus host a dance-off in NYC

US website People.com are reporting that Madonna and Jesus held a 'dance-off' in a club in New York City last weekend:

Madonna and Jesus Luz, hosted an epic dance-off at SL in New York over the weekend. The pop star was there to scout dancers for her upcoming tour - and half the room was roped off for the impromptu performance, where Brazilian dancers used drumsticks and mixed mock combat with flips and spins while getting down. Madonna and Luz held hands and watched.
After enjoying the performance, the twosome joined in and danced together for around 90 minutes before leaving together in great spirits.

Madonna conducts dance-off at club

'She came into SL with a huge entourage of guys, but it looked very friendly,' a snitch dishes. 'At first, she was blocked off by security, but as the night went on she was having such a good time that she was out dancing like everyone else.'
The 51-year-old still knows how to party: Our spy says that she even had a dance-off with the members of her posse, which included Knicks player Danilo Gallinari.
'They made a huge circle, and Madonna looked like she was competing with ('The Hurt Locker’s') Anthony Mackie and Jeremy Renner. Madonna looked really happy and like she was having a good time, but any attention she got from the men was definitely platonic.'

From the New York Daily News

Madonna and Sean Penn's Chance Encounter

When Madonna and Sean Penn were spotted together at a tony New York City restaurant on Thursday, rumors swirled that the former Mr. and Mrs. Penn might be rekindling their romance.
Not so, according to Madonna's longtime publicist Liz Rosenberg, dismissing reports the pair, who divorced in 1989 after a stormy four-year marriage, lingered over a cozy, three-hour-plus dinner at Adour at the St. Regis Hotel.
'Madonna was at the St. Regis having dinner with friends,' Rosenberg tells PEOPLE. 'Sean stopped by the table to say hello. He sat for ten minutes and then left. Madonna continued with her dinner. That's all it was.'
Madonna, who has been linked most recently with model/DJ Jesus Luz, is divorced from her second husband, Guy Ritchie. Penn's wife, Robin Wright Penn, filed for divorce from him in August.

From People.com

Madonna and Lady Gaga: The dance-off!

The New York Post published this story about Madonna and Lady Gaga continuing on from their Saturday Night Live:

Madonna and Lady Gaga continued their play catfight from 'Saturday Night Live' well into Sunday. After squaring off in an SNL skit, they got into a one-on-one dance-off at SoHo hot spot Submercer at a Sunday night birthday party for Madonna's manager, Guy Oseary.
'(Deejay) Jus Ske was joking around and alternating their songs Holiday and Poker Face, and then they both started going at it,' says an onlooker. 'Madonna seemed to be the winner. People were going wild.'
Also attending were Lenny Kravitz and Andy Samberg.

Thanks to Mo

Rep denies Madonna and Janet Jackson meeting

Earlier reports this week that Madonna and Janet Jackson had dinner after the MTV VMAs and planned to work together at some point have been denied by Madonna's rep as Access Hollywood reports:

When contacted by Access Hollywood, however, a rep for Madonna said the report was not true. Additionally rumors that the two ladies went to dinner together following the VMAs also did not happen, the rep said.

Madonna meets with Janet Jackson

Her dream of singing with good friend Jacko was dashed by his untimely death, but now Madonna is plotting the next best thing - working with his little sister.
We can reveal that the Queen of Pop had a secret dinner with Janet Jackson on Sunday evening.
Over dinner at Butter in New York, the pair were overheard discussing how to honour Michael by 'doing something together'. Earlier Janet, 43, and Madonna, 51, had been hanging out together at the MTV VMAs, where they were seen hugging one another.
And when we caught up with Madonna backstage, just after her tribute to Michael, she told us: 'Now I've finally had a chance to say farewell to my dear friend.'
'I can now say I have paid my respects to Michael. That's why I'm here. To say good-bye.' Then she added: 'And Janet's performance was amazing - just the perfect tribute to her brother.' Both stars then left the glitzy bash early - narrowly avoiding the fallout surrounding Kanye West storming the stage and dissing Taylor Swift.
Over dinner they seemed to be getting on like old friends.

From mirror.co.uk

Will Madonna Perform at the Video Music Awards?!

Madonna may be 51, but don't you dare think for even a second that she's too old for MTV.
There's a rumor flying around that the Queen of Pop will perform her new single 'Celebration' at next month's Video Music Awards in New York City.
Those set to perform during the show, which takes place Sept. 13 at Radio City Music Hall, include Jay-Z, Lady Gaga, Pink, Taylor Swift, Green Day and Muse.
Madonna's rep insists there are no plans for the VMAs this year. But let's say it does actually happen - would she be able to top some of her most memorable past appearances?
Who will ever forget Madge swapping spit with Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera in 2003?
And for those of us old enough to remember, Madonna first made her mark at the VMAs way back in 1984, when she rolled around the Radio City Music Hall stage in a white wedding gown and matching lacy gloves while performing 'Like a Virgin.'
'Celebration' is the title track of Madonna's upcoming greatest hits compilation. The VMAs certainly would make the perfect venue to promote the new release, as it drops Sept. 29.

From E! Online - thanks to Matthew

Jesus Luz: 'Madonna is just a friend'

Brazilian model Jesus Luz has spoken publicly for the first time about his relationship with Madonna - blasting reports of an impending wedding and branding the singer 'nothing but a friend'.
The Material Girl met Luz in December at a photoshoot for W magazine, which saw the pair pose for a series of provocative photos, weeks before Madonna's divorce from filmmaker Guy Ritchie was finalised in January.
The couple has since been snapped jet-setting around the globe, sparking speculation Madonna had taken Luz on as her lover and plans to marry him in a Kabbalah commitment ceremony.
But in a candid new interview on Brazilian TV show Fantastico, the 22 year old has downplayed his relationship with the superstar.
He says, 'She is someone I truly admire, a friend who is in my life, who I have worked with, and who I keep in touch with. I can't say anything else besides that. She is a friend, and nothing but a friend.'
And Luz insists he isn't bothered by the international press labelling him Madonna's toyboy.
He adds: 'Actually I have never cared about what other people say about me because if I let people's negativity enter my life then I will not be able to stay focused and follow my path.'

From contactmusic.com

Liz Smith on Madonna's significance to celebrity culture

US columnist Liz Smith took time to answer questions the public had been sending her about the changing nature of gossip and celebrity at entertainment.excite.com. A question about Madonna was of course featured:

'Madonna said, 'I love Liz Smith, she has big balls, like me.' What is her significance to celebrity culture?'
'Madonna! I couldn't believe it when she said that - I am nothing near as brave as Madonna. And this was at an event that was hers, the premiere of 'Truth or Dare.' I was being followed around by an ABC camera crew for a story. And I kept saying, 'I don't think she's going to cooperate.' I hadn't met her yet, though I'd been writing about her since 1984. But she looked right into the camera and said it.
Her cultural influence has been epic, in every way - sex, fashion, self-promotion, self-confidence, oh, and that little thing - her music! People want to forget that she is this giant figure in pop music, that she has written most of her big hits. She JUST DOESN'T GIVE A DAMN what people think. She won't beg her audience for their love. And that's why they love/hate her.
She doesn't care - or at least she'd never admit it publicly - that she was hurt by the idea that her charity work and adoptions are a publicity ploy - as if she needs more publicity! She ain't retiring, ever! And she sure doesn't care that she's 50 and her latest lover is 22. She's doing what men do, and not apologizing for a second. I like her a lot.

Jesus' father talks about his son and Madonna

Jesus Luz's father has opened up about his son's relationship with Madonna - insisting the couple is 'extremely happy', but won't be walking down the aisle any time soon.
The Material Girl has been dating the 22-year-old model since earlier this year after meeting him on the set of a photoshoot for W magazine.
The couple was recently rumoured to be planning a Kabbalah commitment ceremony to cement their love.
Luis Heitor Pinto da Luz admits his son may be organising a religious ritual with the star, but is adamant they do not intend to marry.
He tells Brazil's Quem (Who) magazine, 'The Kabbalah ceremony (that) will link up my son Jesus Luz and Madonna only confirms that he is extremely happy. I don't know if there will, in fact, be a real marriage between Madonna and my son. It will be a type of ritual, but I do not know Kabbalah (or if the ceremony) will have legal validity.'
And Luz Senior reveals the model is just enjoying spending time with the singer and her three kids, 12-year-old Lourdes, Rocco, eight, and adopted tot David Banda, three.
He adds, 'She has small children, and Jesus helps her out with various tasks involving all of them. He plays ball with the kids. Jesus has charisma and loves children.'
'I've spoken by phone with Madonna - in French, because my English is not fluent - and she appears to me to be a normal and polite person. She is feminine. I don't feel she is a harsh person.'

From contactmusic.com

Madonna spends Mothers Day watching the Mets

The New York Post's Page Six gossip column reported that Madonna spent Mothers Day with Lourdes, Rocco and David watching the Mets play baseball at Citi Field.

Madonna and family were sitting in Jerry Seinfeld's seats along with Anderson Cooper and Jesus Luz.

Who does your roots?

Madonna must want to look her best as she weathers the paparazzi storm following her divorce news. A few days before she and hubby Guy Ritchie announced their split, the ambitious blond ran into golden-tressed crooner Ron Abel and asked, 'Who does your roots?' Word is Abel, who wowed the crowd at Birdland Monday night, pointed her to color guru Warren Tricomi at the Plaza Hotel.

From Rush & Molloy / NY Daily News

Madonna's thong used by a Desperate Housewife

Felicity Huffman tried Madonna’s used thong on.
The 'Desperate Housewives’ star admits she couldn’t resist trying on the underwear after she found the discarded garment in her dressing room when she replaced the singer in 1988 Broadway play 'Speed-the-Plow’.
She said: 'I was like, 'This is Madonna’s underwear!' So I tried it on - of course, it didn’t fit me.'

From undercover.com.au

Madonna planning another documentary?

Madonna is reportedly set to mark her 50th birthday by releasing a sequel to her infamous In Bed With Madonna documentary next year.
The Holiday hitmaker will produce the documentary with filmmaker Alex Keshishian, who directed the controversial 1991 movie, to celebrate her continued success in the music industry.
And the film will act as a reunion for Madonna - she has reportedly signed up most of the original production team for the new venture.
Keshishian is set to film the superstar over three weeks as she goes about her day-to-day life in London, according Britain's The London Paper.
A source tells the publication, 'It's like an In Bed With Madonna but made for today. She leads an amazing, high-paced life now and Alex thought the time was right to do another documentary of her life and career.'
The original documentary followed the star as she embarked on her hit 1990 Blonde Ambition tour, and proved a hit with fans, grossing GBP29 million (GBP14.5 million) at the global box office.

From contactmusic.com