Lestre Zapanta
Dogs and cats are among the most popular pet choices in the Philippines. As such, it is no surprise the spotlight now falls on these adorable house companions via GMA News TV’s “Luv U Pet.”
Produced by former GMA News and Public Affairs news correspondent Claire Delfin for Claire Delfin Media, the pet-oriented lifestyle show tackles everything pet lovers need to know about their furry friends.
That said, Claire is adamant that the show focuses only on the positive aspect of pet ownership.
“Ako, I believe kailangan din na when you want to promote love, you have to show love. If you want to teach love, you have to show love, so positive reinforcement lahat at hindi ’yung puro negatibo ang ipapakita sa show. For example, hindi (namin ifi-feature) ’yung may batang nakagat ng aso at namatay kasi it’s very negative eh,” she explained.
The idea of producing the show came about after Lestre Zapanta, a dog master with 15 years of experience analyzing canine behavior, was featured on “Brigada” some time ago.
“They had an episode on ‘Brigada’ about dog behavior interventions then maganda ’yung response ng public so it further cemented what I have always observe na may demand for information about pets,” Claire shared.
On getting Lestre to host “Luv U Pet,” Claire said, “We need someone to help us understand and exercise necessary interventions para mas maging matiwasay ang buhay natin kasama ang pets.”
Aired on Saturdays, the host shows viewers how to handle an aggressive dog. There is also a segment, whose concept, Lestre explained, “is bent on putting the psychology of askals dun sa dogs living inside the house.”
Citing how street dogs are more sound, stable and secure than most pampered purebreds, Lestre added, “The problem kasi, mas maraming aso sa loob ng bahay ang may nakakagat as compared sa nasa kalye.”
The Pinoy Dog Whisperer also wants to educate owners on how to discipline their dogs.
“Halimbawa, si nanay ay naglalaba (tapos) mangungulit si doggy, (I’ll teach viewers) paanong gagawin para hindi mangulit. Kailangan ko lang mag-intervene kasi hindi naiintindihan ng dog owner paano baasahin ’yung aso niya at paano ma-educate ’yung aso niya na, ‘This is not allowed.’”
Surprisingly, Lestre is self-taught, learning his trade mainly by observing street dogs.
Co-host Jamie Fournier, who has a three-year-old beagle named Chase, admitted she has learned so much from working on the show.
“The exposure to him (Lestre) is very helpful (because) I have a dog. Pinagsasabihan niya rin ako (na ’wag masyado) i-spoil ang aso ko,” she shared.
“Luv U Pet” airs Saturdays at 4 p.m. on GMA News TV Channel 11
Rose Fostanes
The tables have indeed turned for the first “The X Factor Israel” champion, former Filipina caregiver Rose Fostanes. From squeezing singing stints in between nursing duties, she has now seen her dreams come true after being granted a foreign expert work permit. But while she now legally works as a performer in Israel, Rose admits she still wishes to do her old work occasionally.
“Gusto ko nga sanang bumalik, parang part-time, kahit mag linis-linis ng bahay. Ang laki kaya ng kita,” Rose said in a recent interview held in the residence of Israeli Ambassador Effie Ben Matityau. “Minsan ’pag gusto mong bumili ng sapatos sa hapon, maglinis ka lang dalawang oras, may pambili ka na. Eh kaso bawal na nga.”
A practical thinker, Rose doesn’t want her free days wasted. Back when she was a caregiver, she would perform in bars with her band during her days; now she has more time on her hands when she’s not rehearsing or recording – something she hopes to find more use for.
“Hindi naman mahalaga sakin ’yung talagang sumikat nang sikat na sikat, ang importante sa’kin is magkaro’n lang talaga ko ng trabaho na alam kong kikita ako, like in a week… Hindi ’yung famous ka nga tapos wala ka namang ginagawa,” she said.
The life of this 48-year-old may have changed and she now makes double in her newfound career but for Rose, what’s more important is that she’s helped improve the way Filipinos are viewed by foreigners.
“Nakatulong nang malaki especially in Israel, kasi ’di ba ang tingin nila sa’tin caregiver lang tayo, hanggang dun lang ang work natin, ang kaya natin? Hindi ko naman nilalahat, (pero) meron kasing mga Israeli employers na, ‘May ganyan ba kayo sa bahay niyo? May TV ba kayo? May mga malls ba kayo na ganyan, na malalaki?’ (Usually) mga matatanda,” Rose shared.
Now, she proudly noted, “Sila (Israelis) ngayon ang nagkakalat na magaling sa Pilipinas.”
For Rose, however, there seems to be a downside to fame. “Parang nawalan ako ng privacy,” she admitted.
Morning errands have to be done at night due to fans clamoring for a picture with her early in the day. “Masaya naman, pero nakakapagod rin.”
She added, “Merong mga dati mong ginagawa, ngayon ’di mo na pwedeng gawin… Gaya nung madali akong magalit nu’n, ngayon hindi na, kailangan lagi kang behave.”
Started from the bottom
Rose couldn’t avoid reminiscing about her life – particularly the hardships she experienced – before being crowned the maiden winner of “The X Factor Israel.” She recalled almost giving up after her first employer died in her care.
A lot has changed for Rose Fostanes since her victory on ‘The X Factor Israel’
“Mahal na mahal ko ’yun kasi siyempre ’yun ang unang inaalagaan ko. Halos ayoko nang tumanggap ng ibang trabaho kasi baka mamaya mamatay na naman siya, tsaka ’yun lang talaga ang inalagaan ko na dinibdib ko,” shared Rose. She had also looked after a patient with Alzheimer’s and had another one with cancer pass away in her arms.
The singer had thoughts of throwing in the towel at times when stress and exhaustion hit her the hardest. “Iisipin mo na ang hirap ng buhay, talagang imbis na dapat dito ka na lang sa Pilipinas nagtatrabaho ng ganun.”
Add to that the criticism she’s gotten about her physical appearance, to which Rose has grown accustomed.
“Noon umiiyak ako talaga pero ngayon okay na. Bago magsimula ’yung ‘X Factor,’ meron ngang mga comments diyan na hindi mo magugustuhan… (like) ‘Hindi naman sisikat yan kasi ang laki-laki niyan,’” she related.
Now Rose has proven that size doesn’t matter in her field.
PH-Israel ties
Rose was the main guest of “Thank you, Philippines Friendship Concert” held on Feb. 26 at the Music Museum, Greenhills, San Juan City. The show, which was part of the Philippine International Jazz and Arts Festival, is a celebration of the historical friendship between Israel and the country.
“Actually nalaman ko ’yung kwento about the Holocaust refugees after I won ‘The X Factor Israel.’ Natuwa ako kasi when I went to the PH embassy in Israel, pinakita sa’kin (ng ating Philippine) Ambassador to Israel Generoso D.G. Calonge lahat ng picture na naka-hang sa wall,” she shared. She also learned of the Filipinos’ rescue of 1,300 Jewish people from the horrifying predicament.
“Na-touch ako na hindi lahat ng Israeli alam ’yun, na sa dinami-dami ng mga refugee na naglalayag, walang ibang tumanggap na ibang bansa kung ’di tayo lang mga Pilipino. Kaya ganun din nila (Israeli) kamahal ’yung mga Pilipino.”
The Israelis’ affinity to the Filipino was evident in Rose’s “X Factor” win – which, in part, was due to votes cast by the Israeli public. It holds true these days when she performs there.
“Ang sabi nila, ‘Hindi lang natin dapat mahalin si Rose dahil magaling siyang kumanta, at hindi lang dapat na binoto natin siya, kundi dapat nating mahalin siya,’ dahil nga dun sa kwento na nalaman din nila. Kaya lahat ng tao ’pag nakita mo, nagpapalakpakan talaga sila.” (With report from Jojo P. Panaligan)
Andrew de Real
There are no books here but The Library, one of the country’s longest-running comedy clubs, could also be considered a place of learning. Some of the most successful comedians like Vice Ganda, Ai Ai delas Alas, Arnell Ignacio, Allan K, Wally Bayola and Jose Manalo can attest to that – they all honed their acts within the confines of the club that’s been around for some 30 years now.
Founder and creative director Andrew de Real, known in industry circles as Mamu, says his nose for talent propelled the club through the years. Indeed, while some club owners insist on booking established comedians, Mamu often accommodates those who are starting out. He recalls booking Vice Ganda back when the TV host-actor was just starting his career based on intuition.
“I could see ’yung nakakatawa sa kanila na hindi nakikita ng iba. Merong ganon eh. Hindi mo alam na nakakatawa ka, may makakaalam lang (no’n sa’yo),” he says.
While talent is not always inherent, Mamu says skills can be developed with the right mindset. “Kasi ang secret naman ng comedy is fun. Enjoy mo lang. Lalabas ’yun.”
Still, he says comedy is not just about being funny; it should also be about intelligence. Another factor he considers important is originality.
Then there’s that tiny thing called establishing a niche. As example, he cited Pooh, who is best known for impersonating the boxer Manny Pacquiao; and Ate Gay, who is now synonymous with Nora Aunor.
From left: Gladys Gueverra, Rufa Mae Quinot, Ate Gay and Candy Pangilinan
Mamu shares his discoveries have managed to be close to him to this day, noting how they would often drop by the club to chit-chat. “Lagi ko silang gina-guide. Halimbawa ’pag pasikat na sila, nagre-refer ako ng managers,” he says. He advises them to always “be good.”
Mamu adds, “Importante kasi iyan. Pati, ’wag magpabaya, ’wag pasilaw. Know your roots, kung saan ka galing, kung paano ka nag-umpisa. Hindi mo pwedeng kalimutan iyon.”
Putting high premium on the quality of comedy at The Library, Mamu even reviews each of his acts’ materials. He wants audiences to have fun and not feel insulted or offended. He boasts that the club has not received any complaints all these years.
Mamu believes comedy bars will continue to flourish with the influx of younger, funnier talents. Asked what he thinks would be the next big thing, he hinted at the rise of good-looking male comedic duos.
The director-entrepreneur gives free workshops for aspiring comedians, along with Arnel, Philip Lazaro and John ‘Sweet’ Lapuz. Noticing a growing number of participants, Mamu now mulls establishing a comedy school.
He is busy preparing for the comedy show “4 Da Best + 1,” featuring Candy Pangilinan, Ate Gay, Gladys Gueverra, Rufa Mae Quinto and Kim Idol. It will be held at the Music Museum in Greenhills, San Juan on March 13 and 14. For tickets, contact SM Tickets, TicketWorld and the Music Museum. (With report from Jojo P. Panaligan)
John Lloyd Cruz, Sarah Geronimo, Marvin Agustin, Jolina Magdangal, Richard Gomez, Sharon Cuneta, Claudine Barretto and Piolo Pascual
Romance often blossoms in summer. It seems people are more prone to hooking up in the season of the sun, probably because summer hints at great adventures and new discoveries. Still, it helps to be prepared. As Nicholas Sparks himself warned, “Summer romances end for all kinds of reasons.”
Now, when that happens, people always have a hard time moving on. Just ask those who watched “That Thing Called Tadhana.” This “hugot line” uttered by Mace (Angelica Panganiban) said it all: “Naalala ko siya sa lahat. Sa ketchup, sa Coke, sa pastillas, sa yosi, Cebu, Bulacan, sa dahon ng malunggay…”
Way before “Tadhana,” though, there were other heart-wrenching, sob-inducing lines that resonated with audiences. So don’t fret, there’s always a line when you reach the end of the line:
For hopias
“You made me believe, you made me believe we had a chance…” – Dianne/ “Minsan, Minahal Kita” (2000)
There are people we call “paasa.” This is how Dianne (Sharon Cuneta) views Albert (Richard Gomez), a man she’s had an affair with. They both have their respective families. In the end, Albert decides to be faithful to his wife.
When ‘friendzoned’
“Oh yes, kaibigan mo ’ko. Kaibigan mo lang ako. And that’s all I ever was to you Ned – your best friend… And I’m so stupid for making the biggest mistake of falling in love with my best friend.” – Bugoy/ “Labs Kita, Okey Ka Lang?” (1998)
Ah, the agony of loving someone who only sees you as a friend. Welcome to the friendzone. The movie revolves around best buddies Bugoy (Jolina Magdangal) and Ned (Marvin Agustin). Problem erupts when Bugoy’s feeling towards Ned grew deeper.
To the users
“Mahal mo ba ako dahil kailangan mo ako? O kailangan mo ako kaya mahal mo ako?” – Jenny/ “Milan” (2004)
Try using this mind-blowing question to a lover whom you feel is just using you to feed his or her fantasy, or whatever. See how they will answer. As for Jenny (Claudine Barretto), who throws this question at Lino (Piolo Pascual) in the movie, she doesn’t get the answer she wants. In fact, he isn’t able to muster a come back at all.
When dumping someone
“I didn’t ask you to love me so don’t make me feel that I need to love you back. Maawa ka nga sa sarili mo! Mapapagod ka lang kakahintay, mapapagod ka lang kakaasa.” – Miggy/ “A Very Special Love” (2008)
Ouch! Just ouch! This is Miggy’s (John Lloyd Cruz) line when he decides to dump Laida (Sarah Geronimo), who is deeply in love with him. Of course, Laida could do nothing but walk away with tears streaming down her face.
When moving on
“Kaya tayo iniiwanan ng mga mahal natin kasi baka may darating na mas okay, na mas mamahalin tayo. ’Yung taong hindi tayo sasaktan at paasahin. ’Yung nag-iisang taong magtatama ng mali sa buhay natin, ng lahat ng mali sa buhay mo” – Popoy/ “One More Chance” (2007)
Pining away for “The One” isn’t always for the best, though this is Popoy’s (John Lloyd Cruz) advice to a brokenhearted friend. True to what he says, he finds new love in Trisha (Maja Salvador) when his girlfriend of five years, Basha (Bea Alonzo), breaks up with him.
Social media has become one of the fastest and easiest ways to communicate. For celebrities, it has the added appeal of being able to hear directly from fans. It can make or break careers but, still, celebrities can’t seem to get enough of it.
A quick peek at recent celeb posts allowed us to catch up on the latest celeb rumors.
FATHER-DAUGHTER RECONCILIATION
JULIA BARRETTO and Dennis Padilla (Instagram)
All is well now between actor Dennis Padilla and daughter Julia Barretto.
Note how Julia supposedly had fallen out of favor from the powers that be at her home network after reportedly snubbing her father in an industry party last December. The perception is that it has put a negative cloud over Julia.
On Instagram Wednesday, Julia posted a photo of herself sitting beside Dennis.
“Papa being his comedian self,” read the caption.
Followers were quick to express elation over what they deemed as sign of the two having finally reconciled.
True enough, Dennis confirmed the next day on “Aquino & Abunda Tonight” that they’ve buried the hatchet and he will, in fact, attend her debut party this month.
READ BETWEEN THE LINES
ANNE CURTIS
Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Sam Concepcion’s supposed breakup is the latest rumor to hit Tinseltown.
While both parties remain mum on the matter, netizens have already pointed at Jasmine’s sister, Anne Curtis, as the alleged cause of the separation.
Without confirming or denying the report, Jasmine took to social media recently to defend Anne from a basher.
“It is unfair for you to call my sister names… Call me names for what happened but don’t involve her because she has nothing to do with what has happened. I appreciate your concern but being so harsh will not help the situation my dear,” she posted.
So are they still on or not? Your guess is as good as ours.
DID SHE OR DIDN’T SHE?
Actress Heart Evangelista refuted fan speculations that she did not invite childhood friend Angelica Panganiban to her recent wedding.
“I did. She said she can’t make it kasi may trip sila to Japan,” she explained via a post.
Angelica, however, refuted this.
“She didn’t invite me sa dami ng wedding celebrations nya… Sa kahit na anong party involving the wedding celebration. Never nya ako na invite…Baka nakalimutan na lang niya ako,” she said.
The plot thickens.
AIKO MELENDEZ in ‘Asintado’
Actress Aiko Melendez took home the Best Actress in a Foreign Language Film Award at the International Cinema of World Film Festival held on Feb. 28 at the West Ham United Hotel in London.
Aiko was recognized for her role in “Asintado,” a film that was screened in the Directors Showcase section of the 2014 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film.
Director Louie Ignacio and producer Ferdinand Lapuz accepted the award on her behalf.
“Asintado” is about a mother forced to make one of the biggest and most difficult decisions of her life trying to save her children from peddlers of illegal drugs.
The film will have its US screening at the 5th Queens World Film Festival in Long Island, New York on March 21. It will also compete at the 22nd Cairo International Cinema & Arts Festival for Children under the Golden, Silver and Bronze Cairo category on March 27.
Cannes-bound
Meanwhile, critically acclaimed independent film directors Lyka Gonzalez and Valerie Martinez have made it to the prestigious Cannes International Film Festival to be held on May 13 to 24.
Lyka’s “Agos: The Manila Dream” and Valerie’s “Ube” are among films that will be screened as part of the festival’s Court Metrage-Short Film Corner category, which serves as a “meeting place for short film producers and directors to present their films, make meetings reality and take decisive steps for their future careers.”
“Agos: The Manila Dream” explores the surge of urban migration. The story of “Ube,” on the other hand, revolves around a boy, his strict father and a school bully.
Other works of Filipino filmmakers that was screened in Cannes in the past years are Pamela Ll. Reyes’ “Harvest,” Brillante Mendoza’s “Kinatay,” Erik Matti’s “On The Job (OTJ)” and Lav Diaz’s “Norte, Hangganan Ng Kasaysayan (Norte, The End Of History).”
Anne Curtis literally swinging to Sia’s ‘Chandelier’ (YouTube Screen grab)
Great singers aren’t the only ones catching the eye of international media.
Self-confessed non-singer Anne Curtis took to Twitter recently to thank Australia’s Nine News for featuring her performance of Sia’s “Chandelier” on its website.
“Who would’ve thought my croaky voice would get a feature! Hahahah,” Anne posted on Friday.
The foreign news outlet described Anne’s rendition as “spectacularly weird,” adding, “What she lacked in accuracy in hitting notes she made up for with passion.”
Aside from a detailed description of the performance, the feature also quoted reactions from discussion board-based news and entertainment website Reddit, which had the video performance filed under the “crappy music” category.
“Wow, I’m so glad I didn’t switch it off early. That was incredible,” said one.
“Oh my god, it just keeps getting worse and worse in the best way,” another commented.
“Almost everyone in the comments is saying something positive about her. It’s surreal,” yet another kibitzer posted.
“Lost voice or not the show must go on – not that it really makes a big difference anyway. Haha! My voice really does get worse and worse BUT It’s all in the name of FUN and giggles,” she posted, along with a link to the online article.
“Is she trying to ruin it on purpose? This has got to be some sort of joke,” another added.
This other joke comes with a tongue-in-cheek warning: “My dog heard this, started to bark, started to whine, began to bleed from eyes, nose & mouth. Dog died from listening to this. Do not play for children. Many deaths will occur.”
Still, Anne, is far from being dejected.
Those who want to hear more of the same are in for a treat, with Anne reportedly releasing a new album soon. It will be her third, following “Annebisyosa” in 2011, and “The Forbidden Album” last year.
Harrison Ford (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Harrison Ford is set to reprise his role as Rick Deckard in a sequel to the dystopian, neo-noir “Blade Runner,” more than 31 years after the film first premiered.
Ridley Scott directed the 1982 movie, which was adapted from the Philip K. Dick novel “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep.”
Alcon Entertainment announced Ford’s role Thursday and said Scott will serve as an executive producer on the sequel.
Production on the film will begin in the summer of 2016.
Hampton Fancher, who co-wrote the original, and Michael Green have written a script based on an idea from Fancher and Scott.
The story will take place several decades after the events at the conclusion of the 1982 film.
A director has not yet been confirmed for the project.
Shannon Lee (AP Photo/Vincent Yu, File)
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Legendary martial arts star Bruce Lee is getting the official biopic treatment, daughter Shannon Lee announced Friday.
Despite his untimely death in 1973 at age 32, Bruce Lee helped to create and popularize a genre that still endures and influences today with roles in films including “Fist of Fury,” ”Way of the Dragon,” and “Enter the Dragon.”
Bruce Lee Entertainment will produce the project in collaboration with Lawrence Grey (“Hope Springs”) and Janet Yang (“The Joy Luck Club”).
In the statement, Shannon Lee said the film will explore her father’s writings, art and philosophies in addition to his martial arts stardom.
Neither a star nor a director has been set for the film.
The 1993 biopic “Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story” was based on widow Linda Lee Cadwell’s book.
Madonna (AFP)
LONDON (AFP) – Pop icon Madonna claimed she was left with whiplash following her on-stage tumble at the Brit Awards and said that she will not be wearing the offending Armani cape at future shows.
Appearing on British channel ITV’s Jonathan Ross show, the 56-year-old explained: “I didn’t hurt my butt, I hurt my head. I know how to fall, I’ve fallen off my horse many times. I tucked and I have good core strength.
“But the thing is, I had a little bit of a whiplash and I smacked the back of my head. So there was a man standing over me with a flashlight until about 3am making sure I was still compos mentis,” she added, according to extracts released on Friday, using the phrase indicating someone is of sound mind.
“Madge” blamed the embarrassing spill at Wednesday’s award ceremony in London on having to change her performance between rehearsal and showtime, which meant her extravagant cape had to be tied more tightly around her neck.
“So here I am marching in like the Queen and I got to the top of the stairs and I pulled my silky string and it did not come undone,” she said.
“My two lovely Japanese dancers basically strangled me off the stage. I had a choice – I could either be strangled or fall with the cape, and I fell.”
Surrounded by muscular dancers wearing bondage-style costumes and horns on their heads, she quickly picked herself up and continued singing “Living For Love”, ironically peppered with lines like “I’m not giving up, I’m gonna carry on” and “Lifted me up, and watched me stumble”.
“I’m never writing lyrics like that again!,” she joked.
Despite her dignified recovery, Madonna refused to watch a re-run of the incident.
When discussing her future performances, the “Material Girl” singer said that “cape fear is over”, and that she was dumping the floor-sweeping garment.
“I rehearse and I rehearse and I rehearse so that when I do the show, it’s effortless and I create magic and I did the opposite. I actually created a horror show for everyone,” she said.
The Madonna Special will air on March 14.
Lenny Kravitz (AFP Photo/Pool/Lucy Nicholson)
NEW YORK (AFP) – Lenny Kravitz on Friday abruptly canceled a tour of Asia and Australia, with the rocker blaming unspecified scheduling issues.
The singer-songwriter, whose mix of rock with soul and funk elements has won him a wide international following, had been scheduled to head in March to Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia before a series of dates in Australia.
“Unfortunately, due to contractual scheduling conflicts beyond my control I will not be able to come,” Kravitz said in a statement, apologizing to fans.
Kravitz said he hoped to reschedule the concerts but did not immediately announce new dates. Tickets will be refunded.
The 50-year-old musician recently took to the stage with mega pop star Katy Perry at the Super Bowl, the American football title match which is the most-watched annual event in the United States.
Kravitz has kept a 21-date tour of Europe starting in June, as well as an appearance at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in early May.
Actress Lupita Nyong’o (AFP Photo/ Mark Ralston)
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – A $150,000 pearl-encrusted dress stolen from the hotel room of Kenyan star Lupita Nyong’o was found Friday, Los Angeles police said.
The custom-made gown, encrusted with some 6,000 pearls, went missing from the Oscar-winning star’s hotel room after she turned heads in it Sunday on the Academy Awards red carpet.
“A dress that greatly resembles the dress that was stolen” was recovered, spokeswoman for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Nicole Nishida, told AFP.
The elaborate Calvin Klein pearl dress designed by Francisco Costa was reported missing from the London West Hollywood hotel just off Sunset Boulevard late Wednesday.
Nyong’o won a best supporting actress Oscar last year for her performance in the drama “12 Years A Slave.”
The Kenyan-born actress has wowed fashion critics with her bold sartorial choices since her breakout performance.
Leonard Nimoy (AFP Photo/Frederic J. Brown/Files)
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – Veteran actor Leonard Nimoy, who delighted sci-fi fans worldwide with his iconic turn as the pointy-eared half-human, half-Vulcan Mr Spock in the “Star Trek” television series and films, died Friday aged 83.
Nimoy, who suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, died at his home in Los Angeles, his family and agent said. A private memorial service was being planned.
Tributes poured in from castmates, actors, fans, the wider science community — and President Barack Obama.
“I loved him like a brother. We will all miss his humor, his talent, and his capacity to love,” said William Shatner, who played the hot-headed Captain James T. Kirk on the ground-breaking “Star Trek,” which debuted in the 1960s.
George Takei, who portrayed Mr Sulu on the sci-fi show, tweeted: “Rest in peace with the stars, my dear friend.”
“So many of us at NASA were inspired by Star Trek. Boldly go…” the US space agency said on Twitter, highlighting one of the series’ main catchphrases — “To boldly go where no man has gone before.”
Obama said simply: “I loved Spock.”
- Career-defining role -
Born in Boston on March 26, 1931 to Jewish immigrant parents from what is now Ukraine, Nimoy left for Hollywood at the age of 18, winning a sprinkling of small parts in 1950s television series.
Actor Leonard Nimoy and his wife, actress Susan Bay (AFP Photo/Mark Ralston)
With his square jaw and serious features, Nimoy worked his way into showbiz playing cowboy characters and lawmen before he found a niche that would last a lifetime in the world of science fiction.
In 1966 he was cast in his greatest role — as the ever-logical Spock, the science officer aboard the spaceship USS Enterprise, which ventured around the galaxy, exploring new worlds in death-defying odysseys.
Spock was the cool counterpoint to Kirk, played by Shatner, and the even-tempered sparring partner of ship doctor Leonard “Bones” McCoy, played by DeForest Kelley.
The trinity had ratings-boosting chemistry that sustained “Star Trek” during its initial four-year run.
Spock would be resurrected for several feature films after “Star Trek” snowballed into a cultural phenomenon in the 70s and 80s, making his Vulcan salute and salutation “live long and prosper” a touchstone of the science-fiction world.
Nimoy later revealed he based the hand gesture on a Jewish blessing.
In addition to acting, Nimoy was an accomplished director.
He directed two of the Star Trek films including one of the most well received, “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home.” Nimoy also directed 1987 hit comedy “3 Men and a Baby” starring Tom Selleck.
- Role model for geeks -
Nimoy, along with some of his co-stars, struggled with the type-casting stardom he was thrown into by legions of earnest “Star Trek” fans.
In 1975 he authored the book “I am Not Spock,” attempting to open up space between himself and the character that had so captured people’s imaginations.
While “Star Trek” fever built, Nimoy starred in “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” in 1978, and then alongside Ingrid Bergman in 1982′s “A Woman Called Golda.”
Nimoy would eventually embrace his role as an authority figure in the sci-fi world. He wrote a rebuttal to his earlier memoir — “I am Spock” in 1995.
As Spock, Nimoy became a role model for nerds and geeks: he was calm under pressure with a logical response always at the ready.
He related an “embarrassing” anecdote to The New York Times in 2009 when he toured a California university with scientists who looked to Spock for approval.
“Then they’d say to me, ‘What do you think?’ Expecting me to have some very sound advice. And I would nod very quietly and very sagely I would say, ‘You’re on the right track’.”
Nimoy had two children with his first wife, and was married to his second wife Susan since 1989.
- Active later years -
Nimoy built off his sci-fi and Spock fame for the rest of his career, lending his voice to documentaries, video games and television shows.
He sold “Live Long and Prosper” apparel, and waved the Vulcan salute at “Star Trek” conventions.
He returned to “Star Trek” as an older version of his Spock character in the franchise’s reboot directed by J.J. Abrams in 2009 and in a 2013 sequel.
Nimoy remained active in his later years, releasing photography books and poetry.
Photographers gather around the star of actor Leonard Nimoy, on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, in Hollywood, California. (AFP PHOTO / Robyn Beck)
He also took a role on sci-fi TV series “Fringe,” which ran from 2008 to 2013 and was also directed by Abrams.
In his last tweet, posted Monday under his handle @TheRealNimoy, Nimoy said: “A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory.”
In the heart of Hollywood on Friday, fans paid tribute to Nimoy at his star on the Walk of Fame.
“Before Obi-Wan, before Yoda, before Star Wars — there was Spock,” said Gregg Donovan, an English-born actor dressed in a top hat, a red tailcoat and white gloves, who said he once bagged Nimoy’s groceries at a Los Angeles supermarket.
“I always remember his kindness. I told him I was a member of the Screen Actors Guild and he said, ‘Keep going, don’t give up’.”
Flowers and a photo are placed on the star of actor Leonard Nimoy on February 27, 2015 on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, in Hollywood, California. (AFP Photo/ Robyn Beck)
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – President Barack Obama joined Leonard Nimoy’s co-stars from “Star Trek” to bid adieu to the actor who died Friday aged 83 after making his name as “Mr Spock.”
“Long before being nerdy was cool, there was Leonard Nimoy,” said Obama, who recalled meeting the Boston-born Nimoy with the Vulcan salute in 2007.
More than a household name, Nimoy was a “lifelong lover of the arts and humanities, a supporter of the sciences, generous with his talent and his time,” the president added.
“I loved Spock,” said Obama.
William Shatner, who played Captain James T. Kirk on “Star Trek,” was similarly effusive in his praise.
“I loved him like a brother. We will all miss his humor, his talent, and his capacity to love,” Shatner said on Twitter and Facebook.
“RIP Leonard Nimoy. So many of us at NASA were inspired by Star Trek. Boldly go…” echoed the US space agency on Twitter, under a photo of the Star Trek cast visiting the space shuttle Enterprise in 1976.
“To boldly go where no man has gone before” was a catchphrase from the opening credits of the original Star Trek TV episodes.
A woman looks at flowers for actor Leonard Nimoy, February 27, 2015 at Nimoy’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, in Hollywood, California. (AFP PHOTO/Robyn Beck)
- ‘I will miss you’ -
George Takei, 77, who played the helmsman of the Starship Enterprise on “Star Trek,” told CNN how he and Nimoy had been good friends for half a century.
“When discussing a scene, he had a remarkable talent for analyzing the scene very quickly, in terms of its point, its drive,” Takei recalled.
“But he was also able to guide other actors. He was really a company actor… A real leader and a brilliant actor.”
Zachary Quinto, who played Spock in the two most recent Star Trek films, said he was heartbroken.
“I love you profoundly my dear friend and I will miss you everyday,” he said on Instagram, alongside a portrait of Nimoy.
“Today we salute the legendary Leonard Nimoy #LiveLongAndProsper,” tweeted the nerdy hit CBS sitcom “The Big Bang Theory,” on which Nimoy once made a memorable cameo appearance, voicing a Spock doll.
Veteran Hollywood comedian Carl Reiner asked, via Twitter, if Spock “could not find a way to stay, what chance have we earthlings? ‘May flights of angels sing him to his rest’.”
“Leonard, you lived long and prospered, and were an inspiration to me and to millions. Rest in peace,” tweeted Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, whose use of social media from the International Space Station helped reboot public interest in “the final frontier.”
Revered record producer and songwriter David Foster, who has worked with the likes of Whitney Houston, Celine Dion and Madonna among so many other international superstars across decades, seemed to have drawn his mouth closer to the phone in answering Bulletin Entertainment’s question about Filipina singer, Charice.
Foster certainly sounded loud and clear. He must’ve wanted his message to come across strongly.
“Charice is a phenomenal singer and you know what? The more I look around this world and see other singers…(the more I realize) she’s irreplaceable. I haven’t met anyone that good and I really mean ‘Whew!’”
DAVID FOSTER with Charice during one of their past performances together (YouTube)
Charice was introduced to Foster several years ago by no less than talk show host and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey. Blown away by the singer’s talent, he chose her to be a featured singer in the “Hit Man Returns: David Foster and Friends” series of specials along with other international singing superstars. Charice received standing ovations for her performance of “All By Myself”and “To Love You More” recorded previously by Dion with Foster.
In one of the shows, Foster profusely praised Charice before the audience.
“If Oprah and I had a love child it could very well be our next guest. But none of us could’ve predicted or guessed the laser beam trajectory of her career. You cannot deny this immense talent in this little body…(she’s) a dynamo from the Philippines…” he said in part.
Charice’s recording of the Diane Warren song “Note To God” was co-produced by Foster and it served as the first North American single for her eponymous album released worldwide. He also co-wrote and co-produced the third track, “In This Song.”
DAVID FOSTER
In our interview last Feb. 25, Foster said he and Charice have been communicating lately through email and are “talking about maybe getting together again.”
“We did not have enough chance to develop her as an artist (before). (And) it’s well-documented that she’s had personal issues that sort of slowed down her progress as entertainer… (but) there’s lots more you’re gonna hear from Charice and maybe I’ll get the opportunity to be that guy to get the best vocal out of her,” he added.
Recall that in 2011, reports have it that Charice and Foster could not work together further because he transferred to a record label that’s different from the one Charice was signed to then.
Charice was brought up in our interview with Foster when we asked him about another interview wherein he was quoted to have said that whenever he works with an artist in the studio, he aims to bring out the best vocal performance out of them. We asked him to comment on working with Charice, a newbie that time; Madonna, who’s more known for dance music; and Whitney Houston, whom we said is one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
“My own mantra… in my own head, I want to go in a studio everyday with a singer and make them sound better than they’ve ever sounded before in their life. Now, do I accomplish that everyday? No, I don’t – but that’s my attitude going in.
“So, when I was with Madonna, and we did this song ‘You’ll See’ together, I wanted to try and help her get a better vocal than she’s ever done before. Did I succeed? I don’t know, probably not. But that’s my attitude when I go in. And the same with Whitney, and with Whitney, I believe I did succeed. I think the vocal on ‘I Will Always Love You’ was her best vocal ever.”
According to a release, Foster has created albums that have collectively sold in the hundreds of millions. Aside from the aforementioned, he has worked with Michael Jackson, Andrea Bocelli, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, Rod Stewart, and Stevie Wonder, and so many more.
Foster has won 16 Grammy Awards, including three for Producer of the Year, an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe, and racked up three Oscar nominations for Best Original Song. In June 2010, he was inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall Of Fame.
David Foster will soon be seen on AXN’s talent search, “Asia’s Got Talent,” where he sits as celebrity judge along with UK pop sensation and former Spice Girl Melanie C, Indonesian rock icon Anggun and Taiwanese-American pop idol Van Ness Wu. The show is set to premiere first on AXN on March 12, airing on Thursdays at 8.05 p.m. in the Philippines.
About 15 Kapuso artists are expected to attend the grand summer event at the Dakak Park & Beach Resort and Gloria’s Fantasyland in Dapitan City next month, said Lana Jalosjos-de Leon, VP for sales and marketing of Dakak Properties.
The GMA Network stars who’ve confirmed their attendance include Rochelle Pangilinan, LJ Reyes, Gwen Zamora, Andrea Torres, Louise Delos Reyes, Benjamin Alves, Alden Richards, Geoff Eigenmann, Mike Tan, Pekto and Boobay.
LOUISE DELOS REYES, Alden Richards, Kris Bernal, and Geoff Eigenmann
Set for March 20 and 21, the event provides a special treat for graduates and their families. Gloria’s Fantasyland offers a buy-one-take-one deal wherein two persons can avail of the regular P1,000 entrance ticket. At the Dakak Resort as well, the regular P1,000 per person entrance fee will be good for two persons who can enjoy, aside from the seafood buffet, access to the beach and the pool areas.
Further details on the venue’s summer events will be announced soon.
• • •
THE BLOOMFIELDS
GOOD FOOD, MUSIC AND LAUGHTER IN ‘BEATLEMANIA’
Take a well-deserved trip down memory lane after a hectic week as celebrity chef Mervyn Whitfield, whose clients include The Beatles and Princess Diana, whips up an appetizing dinner while the Bloomfields band and veteran stand-up comic Gary Lising spice up the evening in “Beatlemania” slated for Feb. 28, 7 p.m. at the Players Pub (formerly San Mig Pub) Corte de las Palmas of Alabang Town Center.
Make this blast from the past more memorable by coming in your best ’60s and ’70s outfits and accessories – bell-bottoms, head scarves, bangles, flare pants, floral prints, platform shoes, cardigans, knitted tops, vests and others.
Sing, dance and sway to good old rock and roll, ballads and mellow hits from drummer Rocky Collado, keyboardist-guitarist Lakan Hila, bassist Louie Poco and balladeer-guitarist Dino Pascual of Aliw Awards’ Best Performer of the Year (2011) The Bloomfields.
Shake off stress by cracking up to Gary Lising’s jokes.
• • •
TIDBITS: Happy b-day greetings today, Feb. 28, go to Buddy de Bera, Cynthia Patag, Carol Nievera, Ryan Eigenmann, Blanca Gomez, Ylette Faustino, Alvin Gerilla, Nomar Reynon of PCSO and Sofia Caldeno…March 1: Gino Padilla, Ed Joaquin, Mina Cepeda Go, Jose R. Veloso, Fred Reyes, Jucille Baterna, Kenneth Graham, Peachie Naidas Abacan, Maryo Labad, Capt. Rudy Herrera, Carla Monique Q. Pascual and Teodoro Lopez…Happy wedding anniversary to Max and Edith Ricketts of San Diego, CA… March 2: Cocoy Laurel, Paquita Revilla, Alice Cuazon, Monette Guevarra, Dick E. Orense, Danny Mangahas, Mary Ann M. Dela Cruz, Mark Anthony Lara and Gabby Eigenmann…
Past episodes of ABS-CBN’s ‘Two Wives’ can be viewed again on TV via SKY On-Demand
The average lifestyle of people these days has become busier where one typically has to fit personal, career and family concerns within a day that doesn’t really get longer. As such, coming home and finding time to relax has become more important than ever.
Still, even that has become a frustration. Maybe the boss needed an extra report that took another hour to finish. Maybe traffic was bad and it took forever to get home.
SKY Cable Marketing Division head Alan Supnet knows what their viewers sometimes go through. “Pag-uwi nila hindi na nila napapanood (’yung pabotiro nilang shows)… (it is when) maghahanap na sa Internet, or you’ll resort to pirated movies or TV shows,” he said.
The company, however, has the perfect solution: SKY On-Demand.
“’Yung mga gusto mong panoorin kasi na-miss mo lang siya kagabi, after a few hours posted na siya. Pwede mo nang panoorin by just pressing a single button,” he said.
He also noted how they improved on earlier versions of media content streaming where users can only watch shows using mobile phones, tablets and laptops.
“With SKY On-Demand you can basically catch up (on your favorite TV shows) using your TV or your home theater setup. Mas nakikita mo ’yung life nung mga TV shows,” he said. “’Pag alam mong malalaki ’yung visuals, pwede kang mag-surround system.”
Another offshoot of this improved system is that it can be an ally in the fight against piracy.
While streaming services – both music and movies/TV shows – seemingly give paying consumers unlimited access to content, SKY On-Demand has been devised to thwart the idea of illegally downloading, storing and sharing files.
“Hindi siya prone to piracy kasi hindi siya nare-record, hindi siya napapasa. Talagang naka-store lang siya dun sa (SKY On-Demand) digibox,” Supnet explained.
He also pointed out how the system doesn’t allow for the integration of software that would let anyone store and reproduce their supplied content.
SKY Cable subscribers can soon use SKY On-Demand by simply upgrading their current SD or HD digibox to the new SKY On-Demand digibox for a one-time fee depending on their cable TV subscription plan. New subscribers will soon be able to avail of the service, too.
Aside from allowing every member of the family to catch up on their missed episodes of local or foreign shows, or relive their favorite movies directly on TV, this new service also brings video playback functionality and personal playlist creation.
Dj Suzy
Lunch and the few hours that come after it often mean rest time for majority of the non-working populace.
Adding a bit of color to early afternoon siesta is the energetic and witty DJ Suzy of Magic 89.9’s “The Big Meal” airing Monday to Thursday from 12 to 3 p.m.
DJ Suzy is known for being playful, if a tad naughty. not just on the airwaves but also on social media, particularly Twitter, where she keeps in touch with listeners.
“My listeners are very important to me that’s why I try to have a personal relationship with them. I’m practically on Twitter 24/7,” she notes.
She encourages people who are a bit shy by approaching them at times, saying, “Hey, don’t be shy, I don’t bite, tara picture tayo.”
For those who want to converse in hush-hush manner, DJ Suzy uses the application Ask.fm, a social networking site that allows user to send her random questions anonymously.
She relates, “I’m really on that app all the time. I try to reply to followers as much as possible and their question actually goes beyond music topics, (like) ‘What did you think of today’s (basketball) game (on TV)?’”
There’s a thin line separating work and play for DJ Suzy who describes her job as “a marriage of my two loves – music and talking.”
DJ Suzy is a sports enthusiast who grew up watching basketball games with her father.
“My dad would often bring me to PBA games; I’ll sit on his shoulders while watching… I’ve always loved basketball. When I was young, my grandmother migrated to Chicago so she would send us videos of Michael Jordan. I grew up collecting NBA cards instead of playing Barbie dolls.”
DJ Suzy’s passion for basketball is obvious on her social media accounts where she posts NBA memes.
“I love posting these memes ’cause they are really funny,” she relates.
More, DJ Suzy even subscribes to Globe’s NBA League Pass application, which allows her to watch live games of the team she follows using her phone, tablet or computer.
Obviously tech savvy, DJ Suzy says it helps that Globe now offers myLifestyle plan, which allows her unlimited calls and texts, as well as a huge array of digital content including a number of useful applications.
She advises, “If you’re like me who is obsessed with Twitter and Instagram, make sure to get the social bundle or if you like music or NBA, make sure you guys get the entertainment bundle.”
Globe’s myLifestyle plan is also being endorsed by the likes of host-VJ Kim Jones and model-traveler LA Aguinaldo, among others.
DJ M.O.D.
It’s been a lengthy musical journey for DJ M.O.D. From his beginnings as member of the original Pinoy hip-hop act Masta Plann, to his solo DJ venture that pitted him against the world’s best turntablists in London; to host tenure as a sought-after pop, R&B and hip-hop music producer, Noel Macanaya, a.k.a. the Master Of Disaster, has always been about movement.
“It’s been a long time but I just kept on and just did music. Because it’s my passion. I’m never in it for the money, or the fame. It was about doing what I wanted to do,” he said.
All this has led DJ M.O.D. to creating his first major electronic dance music (EDM) album, “Accepting Change,” under Warner Music Philippines.
“Musically, times have changed. It’s a futuristic age,” the resident “It’s Showtime” said, refuting notions he’s simply jumping on the bandwagon. “Long time ago we used to talk about this ‘future,’ and it’s here right now! The music, the gadgets, everything! We’re living it and I guess I just kept on moving with it.”
The album’s first single, “Rain On Me,” features Maki on vocals. The next track is called “Infinity & Beyond,” obviously referencing the popular CGI hit movie “Toy Story,” a favorite of his sons Darren and Casio (aged 13 and nine, respectively) who also helped him produce the album tracks. “I don’t know where they got it from, because I didn’t teach them,” he said.
The tracks are melodic and lyrically uplifting, epitomizing what the DJ is all about these days: heartfelt sentiments, ear-tweaking melodies, and a solid understanding of what electronica is all about.
“I’m a DJ and producer by profession. But at heart I’m a composer and songwriter. Anybody can be a DJ these days with all the gadgets that’s coming out. But you still need inspiration. That’s what I strive for,” he declared.
The music video for “Infinity & Beyond” is already airing on Myx and MTV Pinoy.
Both “Rain On Me” and “Infinity & Beyond” are available on iTunes and Spotify.
“I feel so blessed! I’m still here and I know I still have a lot of things to do with this music,” said DJ M.O.D.
If the two tracks are any indication, the rest of “Accepting Change” will be mind-blowing.
RR Enriquez and Jeck Maierhofer (Screengrab photos from the prank video)
TV hosts RR Enriquez and Jeck Maierhofer were suspended from their reality and lifestyle show “Happy Wife, Happy Life” following the ruckus created on social media by a video that shows them honking their car horn to intentionally wake up a sleeping commuter.
On Wednesday, Enriquez shared on Instagram that she and Maierhofer will be absent from the show for a week.
“I just want to take this opportunity to thank @happywifehappylifetv5 because they didn’t tolerate us,” she posted.
She related how the TV5 management helped them find the commuter and apologize.
“You can actually watch what we did on @happywifehappylifetv5 …i guess it would be better also to show everyone kung anu yung mga ginawa naming paraan para mahanap yung tao sa video,” she said.
Prior, Maierhofer acknowledged the bashing they received from netizens made her “more sensitive towards people’s feelings and be more responsible for my actions.”
Enriquez, who was initially defensive when criticized by followers, now sings a different tune.
“I realized that if we didn’t do that video or if i didn’t posted it, FOR SURE they will not judge us,” she said.
Enriquez’s post on Wednesday came with a photo message. “Every action is a seed we sow, and we will reap a harvest from our seeds,” it read.
She said she and Maierhofer can relate to the message because they are now paying for their actions.
“We bullied someone and we got bullied also,” she said. “Nakarma din tuloy kami dahil nabully kami ng bongga. But instead of getting bitter on what happened we decided to become better and ran to God.”
Singer Katy Perry (AFP Photo)
WARSAW (AFP) – US pop princess Katy Perry said Thursday she was full of emotion as she visited Auschwitz, the infamous World War II-era Nazi German death camp in southern Poland that has come to symbolise the Holocaust.
“My heart was heavy today. For ever (sic) let this place be a cry of despair and a warning to humanity,” Perry said in a post on her official Twitter account linked to a photo of the camp taken during her visit Wednesday and showing its barbed-wire fences and red brick buildings.
Fresh from her highly publicised US Super Bowl half-time show, the 30-year-old singer is currently on her marathon 12-month Prismatic World Tour ending in May.
Elderly Holocaust survivors returned last month to the death camp 70 years after its liberation, to urge the world never to forget one of history’s worst atrocities.
Part of Adolf Hitler’s genocide plan against European Jews, dubbed the “Final Solution”, Auschwitz-Birkenau was operated by Nazi Germany in the occupied southern Polish town of Oswiecim between June 1940 and January 1945.
Of the more than 1.3 million people held there, some 1.1 million mostly Jewish prisoners perished, either in the gas chambers or by starvation or disease.
Historians estimate that up to 150,000 ethnic Poles were also held at Auschwitz. Used as slave labourers, half died at the camp. Soviet prisoners of war were also imprisoned there as were homosexuals.
Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray (AFP Photo/Taylor Hill)
NEW YORK (AFP) – Plenty of celebrities have been enraged by rumors of their deaths, but when a story emerged of a particularly grisly end for rocker Mark McGrath he was the one apologizing.
In a PR stunt that largely fell flat, a press release Thursday announced that the lead singer of Sugar Ray — the band popular in the 1990s whose hits included “When It’s Over” — had been shot dead.
A masked gunman shot McGrath several times as he filmed a show on the edgy comedy network Adult Swim and he “died in the arms” of his co-host, the release said.
In a mockery of online tributes, the press release asked fans to remember the Sugar Ray singer on social media by posting selfie photos of themselves with sugar packets over their hearts.
The 46-year-old singer later posted a video of the Edgar Winter song “Still Alive and Well” and insisted that he was not involved in the hoax.
“Sorry about any confusion,” McGrath wrote on Twitter.
The hoax was meant to promote an Adult Swim show in which McGrath’s character is killed.
The plan may have succeeded in generating publicity, although McGrath seemed to acknowledge that some people did not enjoy the joke.
He posted a message from a Twitter user who complained of losing eight dollars in a “celebrity death pool.”
“Only eight bucks for my death. Hmmm, I guess that’s about right!” McGrath wrote.
Actress Lupita Nyong’o (AFP Photo/ Mark Ralston)
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – The pearl-encrusted $150,000 dress worn by Kenyan star Lupita Nyong’o at the Oscars last weekend was stolen from the actress’s Los Angeles hotel room, police confirmed Thursday.
“It has been confirmed that it is the dress that was worn by Lupita Nyong’o,” Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department spokeswoman Nicole Nishida said.
Nyong’o, who won a best supporting actress Oscar last year for her performance in the drama “12 Years A Slave”, created a sensation on the red carpet on Sunday with her elaborate custom-made Calvin Klein gown designed by Francisco Costa.
The stunning dress was adorned with some 6,000 white pearls.
The gown was stolen from a room at the London West Hollywood hotel just off Sunset Boulevard, Nishida said. The theft was reported late Wednesday, police added.
No arrests have been made in connection with the theft, the Los Angeles Times reported.
Paul McCartney (AFP PHOTO/Toshifumi KITAMURA)
LONDON (AFP) – The childhood home of former Beatle Paul McCartney sold for £150,000 ($231,000, 206,000 euros) at an auction on Thursday in Liverpool, hometown of the legendary 1960s rock band.
The red brick terraced house in the south of the coastal city sold for £50,000 over its guide price to an anonymous bidder in Britain.
The sale was held at the rebuilt Cavern Club, the venue where The Beatles often played in their early career.
“We are delighted to have sold such an iconic piece of The Beatles and Liverpool’s history,” said Andrew Brown, manager of Countrywide Property Auctions.
The childhood home of Paul McCartney, is pictured before its auction in Liverpool, Northern England. ( AFP PHOTO / OLI SCARFF)
McCartney moved into the house aged four with his parents Jim and Mary in 1947, and the family was well known in the area of Speke due to his mother’s job as a midwife.
The family lived in the three-bedroom house for six years.
Beatles memorabilia can prove popular at auction, with John Lennon’s toilet selling for £9,500 in 2010.
Last year, George Harrison’s former home in the same area of the city sold for £156,000, while Lennon’s childhood home sold for £480,000 in 2013.
