Bengals Lose To 49ers In Super Bowl

Bengals Lose To 49ers In Super Bowl, Stanley Wilson lost out on super bowl due to overdose---Super Bowl was a game worthy of its name. Super Bowl XXIII began with hopes that it would not be another in a recent string of one-sided yawners dominated by the National Football Conference. It wound up being the most exciting Super Bowl ever, ending with the most memorable scoring drive this extravaganza had ever witnessed.

Such a game couldn't have come at a better time for the National Football League. While its title clash had been wallowing in mediocrity, both baseball and basketball could boast of a series of exciting championship events over the previous few years. But this time, the Super Bowl matched the competition with a flourish. And league executives could thank quarterback Joe Montana and the rest of his San Francisco 49er offensive teammates for that.

Hollywood Henderson Was High On Cocaine During Games

Hollywood Henderson Was High On Cocaine During Games---Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson (born March 1, 1953) is a former American football linebacker in the National Football League from 1975 through 1980.

Henderson was drafted in the first round of the 1975 NFL Draft, as part of the Dallas Cowboys Dirty Dozen draft. He made his mark on special teams during his first two years, becoming a starter at the strongside linebacker position in 1977 and by the end of the 1978 season he made his only Pro Bowl.

Lawrence Taylor, perhaps the greatest player ever at the position, said that he was inspired to wear 56 because it was Henderson’s number. Henderson gave himself the nickname "Hollywood" for his flamboyant play and high-visibility lifestyle.

Bradshaw Super Bowl MVP Performance + 35-31 Win

Bradshaw Super Bowl MVP Performance + 35-31 Win---The Super Bowl Most Valuable Player Award, or Super Bowl MVP, is presented annually to the most valuable player of the Super Bowl, the National Football League's (NFL) championship game.

1972 Super Bowl Miami Wins 17-0

1972 Super Bowl Miami Wins 17-0---Super Bowl VI was an American football game between the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Dallas Cowboys and the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Miami Dolphins to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion for the 1971 season.

The Cowboys defeated the Dolphins by the score of 24–3, to win their first Super Bowl. The game was played on January 16, 1972, at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana, the second time the Super Bowl was played in that city.

This was the Cowboys' second Super Bowl appearance, and entered the game with a reputation of not being able to win big playoff games such as Super Bowl V; and the 1966 and 1967 NFL Championship Games prior to the 1970 AFL-NFL Merger. They posted an 11-3 record during the 1971 regular season before defeating the Minnesota Vikings and the San Francisco 49ers in the playoffs.

Giant Sequoias 3200 Years Old (Video)

Giant Sequoias 3200 Years Old---Stunning photographs of 3,200-year-old giant sequoias as high as 20-story buildings on Sierra Nevada slopes: National Geographic Magazine's December cover story includes the remarkable findings of League scientists who are studying how redwoods can survive sweeping environmental changes.

The feature includes incredible photos, such as a portrait of "the President," a 3,200-year-old giant sequoia, and the interactive gallery, Tree of Life. Research team members of the League's Redwoods and Climate Change Initiative helped National Geographic photographer Michael Nichols and Deputy Director of Photography Ken Geiger to capture these images. Geiger told us about the experience.

Russian Family Unaware Of Second World War

Russian Family Unaware Of Second World War---Russian family lived in wilderness for 40 years and missed World War II: A family of religious refugees lived in the Siberian wilderness for 40 years completely cut off from civilization. According to an article published Monday in Smithsonian magazine, when archeologists found the Lykov family, they were on the verge of starvation and had no knowledge of major events of the last half century, including World War II.

The steep mountains and thick forests of Siberia make up the forbidding terrain known as the taiga. It is one of the most isolated and deserted places left on the planet, with winters that stretch from September to May.

Men Play Tag For 23 Years

Men Play Tag For 23 Years---Playing Tag for 23 Years, 6 Guys: Checking beneath your car every day, leaving the windows locked, and posting a guard outside your office.

It's the sort of caution you might expect from a mob boss or politician – but it's also the reality for 10 men who have been playing a game of tag for the past 23 years.

The men, all originally from Spokane, Washington, haven't let growing up and becoming adults stop them from playing the schoolyard game.

Pet Tortoise Found 30 Years Later

Pet Tortoise Found 30 Years Later---Family’s missing pet tortoise found in storeroom 30 years later: Manuela the tortoise made her supposed disappearing act from the Almedia family in Rio De Janiero back in 1982.

The family was renovating their home, and admittedly were not keeping an eye on the animal's whereabouts. When they couldn't find Manuela later, they assumed she slipped out a door left open by workers.

Dung Beetles Navigate By Milky Way

Dung Beetles Navigate By Milky Way---They may be down in the dirt but it seems dung beetles also have their eyes on the stars.

Scientists have shown how the insects will use the Milky Way to orientate themselves as they roll their balls of muck along the ground.

Humans, birds and seals are all known to navigate by the stars. But this could be the first example of an insect doing so.

Deformed Dolphin Adopted By Whales

Deformed Dolphin Adopted By Whales---A lonely, deformed bottlenose dolphin has found a new family after a pod of sperm whales took him in. German researchers spotted the adult dolphin, which has a spinal malformation, swimming with the whales off the coast of Portugal over eight days in 2011.

"It really looked like they had accepted the dolphin for whatever reason," behavioural ecologist Alexander Wilson said.

Male Soldiers Growing Breasts

Male Soldiers Growing Breasts---Male soldiers in Germany growing breasts: As part of their training, elite German troops of the Wachbataillon do a lot of chest-beating, repeatedly whacking their rifles on the left side of their chests.

That's stimulating unusual hormone production, according to experts. The result: The guys are growing breasts—just on the left side, the German Herald reports.

Do Scientists Fear Paranormal?

Do Scientists Fear Paranormal?---Do scientists fear the paranormal?:  The question has been asked for decades: why haven’t psychic powers been proven yet? Psychics have been studied for decades, both in and out of the laboratory, yet the scientific community (and the public at large) remains unconvinced.

In a recent book, “Science & Psychic Phenomena: The Fall of the House of Skeptics,” author Chris Carter insists that the reason that psychic powers have not been proven is because scientists are unaware of the research or refuse to take it seriously because “Clearly many scientists find the claims of parapsychology disturbing.”

Inauguration Day Facts

Inauguration Day Facts---For 224 years, Inauguration Day has marked the peaceful transfer of power between presidents in the United States of America.

The day traditionally features a solemn swearing-in, an inaugural address, parades and fancy parties far into the night. As President Obama takes his second oath of office today Obama inauguration theme faith in America's future, test your knowledge of Inauguration Day facts about past presidents.

Kriss Kross Reunite

Kriss Kross Reunite---Kriss Kross Reunite, The ‘90s are officially back, everyone. Sure, flannel has been back in fashion for a while and everything, but now that hip hop duo Kriss Kross is reuniting, we can all safely say that it might as well be 1992 all over again.

The Kriss Kross reunion will be part of a So So Def Records 20th anniversary concert announced in Atlanta by label founder Jermaine Dupri. Other artists performing in the concert include Xscape, Dem Franchize Boyz and Jagged Edge. Reported ibtimes...

Waiter Sticks Up For Special-needs Boy By Refusing Service

Waiter Sticks Up For Special-needs Boy By Refusing Service---Waiter defends boy with Down Syndrome, refuses to serve table: A waiter is being hailed as a hero on Facebook for refusing to serve customers who wanted to be moved to another table because they didn't like being near a special needs child. According to the waiter, the people said, “special needs kids should be kept in special places."

The waiter said he expected he might be fired, but the restaurant is sticking up for him.

Blue Monday Most Depressing Day Of The Year

Blue Monday Most Depressing Day Of The Year---As if any Monday in January weren't bad enough, Blue Monday, an ill-reputed date dubbed "the most depressing day of the year," should really put you in a mood. While there has been some confusion over exactly which day Blue Monday falls on in 2013, the official date is January 21.

The theory of Blue Monday dates back to 2005, when UK psychologist Cliff Arnall created an elaborate mathematical formula to calculate the most miserable day of the year. Thanks to the day's perfect storm of drab weather, holiday bills, and wrecked New Year's resolutions, motivational levels, the idea goes, hit an all-time low. The result: feeling depressed, being inactive, and eating too many carbohydrates.

Man Fired For Outsourcing His Own Job To China

Man Fired For Outsourcing His Own Job To China---Call it an amazing example of entrepreneurship or a daring play of deceit.

After a U.S.-based "critical infrastructure" company discovered in 2012 its computer systems were being accessed from China, its security personnel caught the culprit ultimately responsible: Not a hacker from the Middle Kingdom but one of the company's own employees sitting right at his desk in the United States.

The software developer is simply referred to as "Bob," according to a case study by the U.S. telecommunications firm Verizon Business.

Woman Loses 222 Pounds

Woman Loses 222 Pounds---Woman Loses 222 Pounds Video: Aimee Smith of Janesville, Wisconsin, took control of her life after she dedicated herself to lose more than 200 pounds. Now, she is even training for marathons.

Two years ago, Aimee Smith realized her weight was off the scale when the needle slammed to an indicated maximum of 300 pounds. In fact, Smith's actual weight was a staggering 427 pounds.

Aimee Smith recalled, "My knees hurt, my back hurt. I had high blood pressure. I was pre-diabetic. I was going down a bad path. I'm sure carrying around 400 pounds wasn't doing my health any favors."

Gangster Sites Around The World

Gangster Sites Around The World---Tour gangsters' stomping grounds: With the recently released film “Gangster Squad” making headlines Gangster Squad, it’s clear that mobsters are back on top of the pop-culture scene. From Capone to "The Godfather," the line between criminal masterminds and mainstream entertainment has always been a bit blurry. For the inside scoop on gangster history, check out these gangster-inspired tours from around the world.

Falls From Grace: The perfect rise, then the perfect fall

Falls From Grace: The perfect rise, then the perfect fall---Athletes' biggest falls from grace: Every young sports fan dreams of being a professional athlete - the fame, the fortune, the adoring fans. But when it comes to these athletes, all bets are off. Legal trouble, PR trouble, you name it. In the wake of former cycling champ Lance Armstrong admitting to doping in an interview with Oprah, which airs Jan. 17 lance armstrong on oprah jan. 17 on OWN and oprah.com, here are more stories of athletes' most dramatic falls from grace.

Sandy Hook Conspiracy Theories

Sandy Hook Conspiracy Theories, Conspiracy theorists: Sandy Hook elaborate hoax---Conspiracy Theories About Sandy Hook Massacre Conspiracy Theories About Sandy Hook Massacre Conspiracy: Seeing this story about Gene Rosen, the psychologist who sheltered children after the Sandy Hook school massacre, is upsetting.

It appears the poor man is getting harassed by folks who think the school shooting was a government conspiracy or plot intended to change public opinion on gun control, and they believe that Mr. Rosen is part of the plot.

Deaf Twins Euthanized

Deaf Twins Euthanized---Deaf twins going blind euthanized: Two deaf twin brothers in Belgium were euthanized by their doctor after realizing they were going blind and would be unable to see each other ever again, their physician says.

The 45-year-old men, whose names have not been made public, were legally put to death by lethal injection at the Brussels University Hospital in Jette, on Dec. 14.

The men, who were born deaf, had a cup of coffee and said goodbye to other family members before walking into hospital room together to die, their doctor told Belgian television station RTL.

Fate Of Sandy Hook School

Fate Of Sandy Hook School---Opinions differ on fate of Sandy Hook elementary school: Parents of Sandy Hook Elementary students are divided on whether their kids should return to the building where a gunman slaughtered 20 first-graders and six adults last month.

According To Yahoo News...Many of them made passionate arguments at an emotional public meeting Sunday.
"I have two children who had everything taken from them," said Audrey Bart, whose children attend the school but weren't injured in the shooting.

"The Sandy Hook Elementary School is their school. It is not the world's school. It is not Newtown's school. We cannot pretend it never happened, but I am not prepared to ask my children to run and hide. You can't take away their school."

Julianne Hough Ripped Dress

Julianne Hough Ripped Dress---Julianne Hough "It's a good thing my dress ripped: She's a professional dancer so Julianne Hough, of course, couldn't wait to show off her moves at the Golden Globes after party on Sunday night. But it seems she's a bit too used to flexing to her max in more suitable clothing. The pretty 24-year-old ended up showing off her steps on the dance floor more enthusiastically than she had anticipated.

But rather than be devastated that she'd ruined not only her look but the expensive frock she'd worn on the red carpet, Julianne instead poked fun at herself.

She even shared the mishap with her online fans, posing in a series of humorous pictures displaying the faux pas.......dailymail.co.uk

Ben Affleck Which Award My Name

Ben Affleck Which Award My Name---Ben Affleck cleaned up right for the Critics’ Choice Movie Award Thursday;

11:00: AWARD: Fey and Poehler bid the audience, “Good night! We’re goin’ home with Jodie Foster!”

10:59: AWARD: Argo, congratulate yourself! Ben Affleck’s ode to the CIA and Foreign Service takes the top prize.

10:50: AWARD: Thanks to Meryl Streep’s flu, George Clooney sticks around to present the dramatic actor prize, too. It goes to Lincoln star Daniel Day-Lewis, who warns that “the Queen of England is about to parachute in to make a last-minute case for Skyfall.”

Unusual Pregnancy Cravings

Unusual Pregnancy Cravings---Pregnant women crave the darnedest things, and that rule applies to pregnant celebrities too. Don't believe us? Keep clicking to find out what unusual things Beyonce, Katie Holmes and more stars had hankerings for when they were eating for two.

Pink

Pink called her pregnancy craving "a testament to herself." Yep, we kind of agree. Pink pregnancy craving sour patch kids sour skittles, pink willow sage.

Python Plane Wing [Video]

Python On Plane Wing, Python clings to plane's wing---Passengers on a Qantas flight from Australia to Papua new Guinea got a little surprise when they looked out the window: There was a python on the plane wing.

According to the Reuters, a nine foot Amethystine python was spotted on the plane wing halfway through the flight.

A Qantas spokesman Thomas Woodward told The Star that the snake likely crawled aboard the plane during the night and was not noticed by the crew before takeoff.

Famous People Who Died Too Soon: Famous people died to soon

Famous People Who Died Too Soon: Famous people died to soon---Death Young Celebrity, Famous People Who Died Too Soon, Famous who died young;Bee Gees member Maurice Gibb died 10 years ago today. He is one of many stars who passed away too soon. Maurice Gibb and his brothers formed the hugely popular Bee Gees their big hits Stayin Alive in 1958. The group disbanded following Maurice’s unexpected death on Jan. 12 , 2003, although they later staged a comeback Bee Gees re-formed in 2009. Here we mark the 10th anniversary of Maurice’s death and remember other stars like this Latin songstress Selena who died too soon.

Laura Kaeppeler's Father Spent 18 Months In Prison For Mail Fraud

Laura Kaeppeler's Father Spent 18 Months In Prison For Mail Fraud, Miss America Laura Kaeppeler, Miss America 2012---On Saturday, January 12, Miss America Laura Kaeppeler: Miss Wisconsin Laura Kaeppeler is the new Miss America.

The 23-year-old from Kenosha won the pageant and its $50,000 prize on Saturday in Las Vegas.

But before Kaeppeler was crowned Miss America, she first sang opera, strutted her stuff in a white bikini, and gracefully walked across the stage in a black beaded gown.

Miss America Laura Kaeppeler To Pursue Law Degree

Miss America Laura Kaeppeler To Pursue Law Degree---Miss America Laura Kaeppeler, Laura Kaeppeler's father spent 18 months in prison for mail fraud, Miss America 2012: When Laura Kaeppeler was crowned 2012 Miss America nearly a year ago at Planet Hollywood, eyebrows were raised when she revealed that her father had served prison time for postal fraud. She made teaching children of incarcerated parents her platform and has had an incredible year’s reign.

In the 12 months that she’s championed her cause and others, Laura has received many awards for her care of children of prisoners. “I try to offer a positive light to these children and let them know it doesn’t have to define them, and it doesn’t have to limit their possibilities,” she said.

Vanessa Williams Miss America Nude Photo Scandal

Vanessa Williams Miss America Nude Photo Scandal---Vanessa Williams Ugly Betty: Vanessa Lynn Williams (born March 18, 1963), known professionally as Vanessa L. Williams or Vanessa Williams, is an American singer, actress, producer and former fashion model. In 1983, she became the first American woman of African American ancestry to be crowned Miss America, but a scandal arose when Penthouse magazine bought and published nude photographs of her. She relinquished her title early and was succeeded by the first runner-up, Suzette Charles of New Jersey. Williams rebounded by launching a career as an entertainer, earning multiple Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award nominations.

Debra Maffett anchor TNN Country News

Debra Maffett anchor TNN Country News---Debra Sue Maffett (born November 9, 1956) was Miss America 1983. Although she competed in the Miss Texas pageant several years without winning, she moved to California and was subsequently crowned Miss California. 

Susan Powell Host "Home Matters" Discovery Channel: Miss America Susan Powell

  Susan Powell Host "Home Matters" Discovery Channel---Miss America Susan Powell, The winner of Miss America 1981, is Susan Powell. Mrs. Powell was born in Elk City, Oklahoma. Susan Powell was the host of the famous “Home Matters” show on the Discovery Channel.

Miss America pageant

Miss America pageant---Where are these Miss America winners now?: The Miss America pageant is celebrating its 92nd anniversary this year, and many former winners will be attending the festivities on Jan. 12 ,miss america pageant on january 12 on abc. We're taking you from 1980 to the present to highlight what pageant queens of the past have been up to since taking home the crown.

Miss America 1980
Then: Cheryl Prewitt overcame a childhood tragedy to become Miss America.
Cheryl Prewitt owns c.p. annie productions, miss america cheryl prewitt, cheryl prewitt automobile accident

Paulina Gretzky Pga Star

Paulina Gretzky Pga Star---Is Paulina Gretzky Dustin Johnson's secret weapon: Dustin Johnson had a good day on Monday. The PGA Tour star finally got to start his regular season and he looked in mid-season form, firing rounds of 69 and 66 to grab a three-shot lead heading into the final round of the weather-shortened Hyundai Tournament of Champions.

Paulina Gretzky, the daughter of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky (and 2010 Golf Digest U.S. Open Challenge contestant) and Janet Jones, followed DJ as he took apart Kapalua's Plantation Course (He would go on to win the event by four shots). Not familiar with the Instagram star? Have a look below at these photos taken on Monday:

Tamiflu Supply Canada

Tamiflu Supply Canada---The federal government is drawing on the national stockpile of the flu drug Tamiflu to relieve a shortage.

The move comes as many locations across the country report they are in the throes of an active flu season.

The Public Health Agency of Canada and Health Canada say they are releasing supplies of the drug from the national emergency stockpile system to the manufacturer, Roche Canada.

People's Choice Awards Winners 2013

People's Choice Awards Winners 2013, Awards 2013 Winners and Nominees Full List---Wednesday (January 9) night's 2013 People's Choice Awards: "The Hunger Games" and Katy Perry. Adam Levine, Justin Bieber and Channing Tatum leads the pack with several nominations each. "The Amazing Spider-Man", "The Avengers", "The Dark Knight Rises", "The Hunger Games"and "Snow White and the Huntsman" are nominated for Favorite Movie of the Year. Channing Tatum, Johnny Depp,  Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Robert Downey, Jr. and Will Smith will battle for Favorite Movie Actor.

Stars who have not won Oscars

Stars who have not won Oscars---Who have won Oscars We just have a couple of Oscar winners: It's awards season again! With this year's Academy Awards ceremony just around the corner the show Seth Macfarlane, many celebs are either working on their acceptance speeches or dreading another disappointing loss. Sure it's an honor just to be nominated, but here's a look at some stars who have made a habit out of it.

Mom Rescues Baby From Python

Mom Rescues Baby From Python---Mom saves baby from python coils: Call it adrenaline, call it maternal instinct. But Tess Guthrie could not say where she found the strength to pry a two-metre python from the arm of her young daughter in the middle of the night.

In the early hours of Saturday morning, Ms Guthrie, from Lismore in northern New South Wales, was woken by the hissing of her cat, which had been behaving unusually in the days before the python's appearance. In the darkness she could make out a strange figure in the bed next to her.........m.smh.

Reaching for the light on her mobile phone, she found a snake coiled around the arm of her sleeping two-year-old daughter Zara."Automatically, I jumped," she said.

Politicians Kids Troubles

Politicians Kids Troubles---Politicians tend to grab headlines for their partisan viewpoints or squabbles, but their families also get attention – and not always for accomplishments. Take 19-year-old William Hilton Paul, for example, a senator's son who was arrested on Jan. 5 for underage alcohol consumption. Whether it's DUIs, drugs or alleged mishandling of campaign funds, we look at some past misdeeds committed by politicians' children.

Lance Berkman Signs

Lance Berkman Signs---Berkman agreed to a one-year, $10 million contract with the Rangers on Saturday, ESPNDallas.com reports. Recommendation: The deal reportedly includes a vesting option for a second year if Berkman reaches 550 at-bats in 2013. Berkman figures to be limited to DH duties, but as a switch hitter, he'll help balance a right-handed heavy lineup.

Biden Reality Show Petition

Biden Reality Show Petition---Petition Calls for Biden Reality Show:  Can't get enough of Vice President Joe Biden? A petition on the White House website calls for a weekly reality TV featuring Biden at his finest moments.

The petition reads, "Vice President Joe Biden has a demonstrated ability to bring people together, whether at the negotiating table or at the neighborhood diner. We, therefore, urge the Obama Administration to authorize the production of a recurring C-SPAN television program featuring the daily activities and interactions of the Vice President with elected officials, foreign dignitaries and everyday American families. Such a program would educate the American public about the duties and responsibilities of their Vice President, while providing a glimpse of the lighthearted side of politics even in the midst of contentious and divisive national debates."

Marie Osmond's Daughter Weds

Marie Osmond's Daughter Weds---Marie Osmond's daughter has wed. On Jan. 4, news came out that Rachael Blosil is married now. According to Huffington Post, the daughter of Marie got married on Christmas Day. Now this would be great on Marie's talk show.

The wedding took place in Park City, Utah. Rachael married fashion designer Gabriel Krueger. She is just 23-years-old. The wedding took place in a cabin and it sounds like it was gorgeous. Marie is very happy to add Gabriel to their family and has nothing but good things to say. She is very happy to see her daughter get married.....examiner.

Famed Shipwreck Could Be Two

Famed Shipwreck Could Be Two---Famous Roman Shipwreck Off the Coast of Greece Could be Two: A dive to the undersea cliff where a famous Roman shipwreck rests has turned up either evidence that the wreck is enormous — or a suggestion that, not one, but two sunken ships are resting off the Greek island of Antikythera.

"Either way, it's an exciting result," said study researcher Brendan Foley, an archaeologist at Woods Hold Oceanographic Institution who presented the findings here today (Jan. 4) at the annual meeting of the Archaeological Institute of America.

Jenny Mccarthy New Show

Jenny Mccarthy New Show, The Bachelor’ crossed with ‘The Amazing Race’ and you sort of get an idea of what ‘Love In the Wild’ is all about: a dating show set in the outdoors, hosted by the bubbly Jenny McCarthy.  The 39-year-old blonde bombshell has a lot more going on as well, including an imminent Playboy spread and a new boyfriend, Chicago Bears player Brian Urlacher. She spoke to FOX411.com about the show, posing nude, and her new dude.

FOX411: Didn’t you have a deal to do a show for Oprah?
Jenny McCarthy: I was in a holding deal with Harpo for about four years. It was a syndication deal. In the midst of my four years of holding she wanted to switch it to OWN, and I didn’t want to....foxnews.

Blue Lvy $1 Million Nursery

Blue Lvy $1 Million Nursery---Blue Ivy Carter Has A $1 Million Per Year Subterranean Nursery: When Beyonce’s husband Jay-Z watches basketball games at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, their daughter, Blue, 12 months, chills downstairs in a nursery!

“Jay rents a luxurious basement suite for $1 million a year,” a source says in the new issue of of Us Weekly, on stands now. “It has an area for Blue filled with toys.”

John Sheardown Dies

John Sheardown Dies---John Sheardown, a Canadian immigration officer who helped smuggle six American diplomats out of Iran during the Iran hostage crisis, has died at the age of 88.

He was pronounced dead Sunday night at an Ottawa hospital.

Although the cause of death is unknown, Sheardown did suffer from Alzheimer's disease.

Celebrities Who Changed Their Names: Celebs' real names

Celebrities Who Changed Their Names: Celebs' real names---Jamie Foxx, Katy Perry & other A-list stars weren't born with the stage names they use today. Not everyone is born with a name that belongs on a billboard. Some stars had to ditch their original first and last for something that would sizzle in bright lights. Favorite stars traded in their birth names for something more showbiz-friendly, and learn what they used to be called back in the day.

Actors Who Are Nearly Unrecognizable In Costume

Actors Who Are Nearly Unrecognizable In Costume---Think you know the actor in costume?
You'll hardly recognize who's behind these memorable roles. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is the latest movie to showcase a large cast parading around in costume. While the actor who plays Bilbo Baggins Martin Freeman gets away with a pair of prosthetic elf ears, this actor is a tad more challenging to peg as Thranduil. While epic fantasy movies are go-tos for elaborate costumes and make-up, they certainly aren't the only genre to turn some of our favorite celebrities into unrecognizable characters.

NFL Scandals: Remember these NFL scandals

NFL Scandals: Remember these NFL scandals---List of NFL Scandal: The NFL Most Salacious Sexual Trysts; NFL scandals tell tales of professional football players or complete National Football League.

Barret Robbins

The media began scrambling on Jan. 25, 2003, the night before kickoff of Super Bowl XXXVII between Tampa Bay and Oakland, as word had leaked that Raiders head coach Bill Callahan had sent Pro Bowl center Barret Robbins home from the San Diego Super Bowl site Qualcomm Stadium San Diego. Immediate reports alleged that Robbins had ventured south of the border to Tijuana, Mexico, for a binge-drinking episode. The Raiders went on to lose, 48-21, without their star center Adam Treu, footage of raiders at Super Bowl XXXVII. Later the depth of Robbins' issues came to light. Barret Robbins bi-polar and depression, Barret Robbins sentenced to prison.

Kris Jenner Buys Herself Mercedes Benz G63 AMG

Kris Jenner Buys Herself Mercedes Benz G63 AMG---On Saturday, the 31-year-old posted a photo of her brand new 2013 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG on Instagram, writing to Los Angeles-based customizers Platinum Motorsport, “Get ready, I have a new toy.”

When Platinum Motorsport’s George Keshishyan pointed out that the vehicle “isn’t even out yet,” Kardashian confirmed, “Got the 1st one!”

Kardashians Celebrate Christmas 2012

Kardashians Celebrate Christmas 2012, Kris Jenner buys herself Mercedes Benz G63 AMG---The Kardashians are a busy bunch, but when it comes to Christmas, they take family time seriously!

E! News spoke to Rob Kardashian during a launch event for his Arthur George sock line in LA, and he gave the lowdown on how the K-Dash crew spend the holidays together.

“My mom has a really big Christmas party every year on Christmas Eve,” he told E! News’ Ken Baker. “We all sleep over at the house, and on Christmas morning we wake up at like 6 a.m. and do presents. They all make breakfast, all the girls. We watch basketball. It’s a family day.”

Tom Cruise Buys Suri Mansion For Christmas

Tom Cruise Buys Suri Mansion For Christmas, Tom Cruise buys katie Holmes $20 Million Gulfstream Jet Wedding Present---Tom Cruise to buys Suri Mansion a $15 million house for Christmas: Tom Cruise is reported to be planning to buy his daughter Suri a $15 million house for Christmas.

The New York pad, perhaps the most epic stocking stuffer ever unwrapped by a Kindergartener, will apparently house Suri's pony and her toy collection.

Katie Holmes is also planning to spoil her daughter this Chrissy, though her gifts are a little more conservative than Tom's house.

David Beckham Gives Olivia Von Halle Silk Pajamas To Victoria

David Beckham Gives Olivia Von Halle Silk Pajamas To Victoria, Beckhams voted most fashionable family---David Beckham Buys Victoria Beckham Olivia von Halle Silk Pajamas for Christmas: Even adorable  David Beckham understands this unspoken rule, and put his good taste to work while doing some stealth holiday shopping for Victoria this week.

The soccer star reportedly phoned in an order to Harrods in the U.K., requesting not one, but two pairs of dreamy silk pajamas by Olivia von Halle.

Romeo Beckham launches his modeling career with Burberry

kendall kylie jenner Christmas $1,200 Christian Louboutin Celine Purses

Kendall Kylie Jenner Christmas $1,200 Christian Louboutin Celine Purses---Kendall & Kylie Jenner's Christmas Gifts Include Celine, Christian Louboutin: From Christian Louboutin shoes to luxurious leather Celine purses, teens Kendall and Kylie Jenner were showered with outrageously expensive Christmas gifts. For their millions of followers to see, Kendall and Kylie took to Instagram to show off their blessings from this Christmas.

Kendall posted a picture of the Fifi spiked Louboutin pumps that half-sister Khloé Kardashian bought for her and retail at $1,200 . . . quite a pretty penny for one gift.

Harry Styles 23 Cupcakes for Taylor Swift

Harry Styles 23 Cupcakes for Taylor Swift, Taylor swift buys harry styles Beatles memorabilia for Christmas---Though few star-struck little ladies who stare at photos of One Direction's Harry Styles before saying their prayers and flitting off into dreamland would like to admit it, it appears that Taylor Swift and Harry Styles are dating and that it may be getting a bit serious. How do we know? Well despite the fact some tabloids are saying Taylor has been talking about babies, which could break up what she has going with Harry Styles, still we see a lot of signs the relationship is going well--including a very romantic Christmas present, in the form of a doorstep serenade,  Harry sent Taylor this week.

Taylor Swift Buys Harry Styles Beatles Memorabilia for Christmas

Taylor Swift Buys Harry Styles Beatles Memorabilia for Christmas, Harry styles 23 cupcakes for Taylor swift---Taylor Swift has plans for Christmas, and they include spreading an expensive array of Beatles memorabilia under boyfriend Harry Styles' Christmas tree.

The One Direction hunk and Taylor Swift have been dating for a few weeks now and it's time for Swift to do what she does best, shower her man with an awesome, heartfelt gift.

Thursday's news means that it is time for Taylor Swift to put on the Santa hat and dole out the $81K worth of goodies for Harry Swift.

Response to the report rage from approval of the $81K expensive gift to reports that Harry Styles is overwhelmed with Taylor's lavishness and their fast moving romance. According to reports, inside sources said:

Rihanna $160,000 Porsche From ROC Nation

Rihanna $160,000 Porsche From ROC Nation, Rihanna $12 million mansion---Christmas came early for Rihanna. She has been gifted a $160,000 Porsche 911 Turbo S from Jay-Z and his management label Roc Nation.

The perfect accessory for her new $12 million home! Rihanna received an early Christmas present from her management company, Roc Nation, and proudly showed it off on Twitter Tuesday, Dec. 18.

The "Diamonds" singer, 24, was gifted a Porsche 911 Turbo S, which MTV News reports to be worth $160,000.

Most Outrageous Celeb Christmas Gifts

Most Outrageous Celeb Christmas Gifts---The Most Outrageous Celebrity Gifts: The holidays are about peace and love, right? Oh yeah, and presents. But what you unwrapped Christmas morning likely had a very different price point than the stuff that celebs got. Trust us, those gifts are too rich for Santa's blood! Click through for the most outrageous celebrity holiday presents of recent years.

Rihanna was a big moneymaker for her music label, RocNation. So Jay-Z and company thanked her with this slick gift this year. Rihanna $160,000 Porsche from Roc nation, Rihanna $12 million mansion.

Jerome Whitehead Found Dead

Jerome Whitehead Found Dead---Ex-NBA player Jerome Whitehead was found dead in San Diego suburb: Jerome Whitehead, who stared in college at Marquette and went on to have a 12-year NBA career, has died at age 56. He was found dead in his home in El Cajon, Calif;, (near San Diego) back on Dec. 20, reports the Chicago Tribune and multiple other outlets. He was discovered by his sister and apparently had been passed away for a little while, according to the report.......probasketballtalk.nbcsports.

Adam Lanza Body Claimed

Adam Lanza Body Claimed---Adam Lanza body was claimed: Carver said that Lanza’s body left the morgue and was actually claimed several days according to The Hartford Courant.

Although we know that Lanza is survived by his father Peter and brother Ryan, whoever claimed his body wished to remain anonymous. Adam Lanza’s final resting place is also being kept secret. Examiner Reported...

Beauty Queen Shocked By Ruling

Beauty Queen Shocked By Ruling---Pa. beauty queen says she's shocked by $5M ruling: A Pennsylvania beauty queen who resigned after alleging that the Miss USA pageant had been fixed says she is stunned by an arbitrator's ruling that she must pay the pageant organization $5 million for defamation.

Former Miss Pennsylvania USA Sheena Monnin tells the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (http://bit.ly/UfGJ8P ) that the "most logical course" would be to contest the ruling, but she's considering her options. KPIC Reported

Famous January Birthdays & Celebrities Birthdays

Famous January Birthdays & Celebrities Birthdays---Famous people born in January: January marks the beginning of the New Year and the birthdays for a country music matriarch Naomi Judd, a record-breaking quarterback Drew Brees, and a Hollywood newlywed Justin Timberlake. Celebrities who will blow out their candles this month.

Glen Davis

Date of birth: January 1
NBA star Glen Davis spent four years with the Boston Celtics before joining his current team Orlando magic. Big Baby, as he's commonly known, played for the 2008 NBA Championship with his former team play Los Angeles Lakers. Swedish model and ex-wife of a professional golfer Elin Nordegren, played the mini version of an evil doctor Verne Troyer, celebrity chef recognized for her southern-inspired food Cat Cora.