Angelina Jolie and her matchy-matchy real assistant, Holly Goline, at the Kung Fu Panda photocall in Cannes on 5/15/08
Last week it came out that someone posing as Angelina Jolie’s assistant, the also-pregnant Holly Goline, had sent impostor e-mails to news outlets claiming the actress had given birth to twins in France. Entertainment Tonight added credence to the fake birth story by insisting on an insider source that had confirmed the birth, which seemed to be explained by the poser assistant news.
Now there’s an AP story that claims that not only did the real Holly Goline contact Entertainment Tonight to advise them that the story was fabricated, but that they chose to run it anyway on their nightly broadcast. The fake story aired several hours after they were told repeatedly via back and forth e-mail, text messages, and phone conversations that Angelina was still pregnant:
On Friday morning, the show posted a story on its Web site and sent an e-mail alert to media outlets saying it had confirmed the birth of Jolie’s twins. The Associated Press picked up the report.
“Entertainment Tonight” did not name its source at the time. It later revealed that the report was based on e-mails from someone it thought was Jolie assistant Holly Goline.
Shortly after the story was posted but several hours before the broadcast aired, Goline told “Entertainment Tonight” that she was not the person with whom they had been corresponding, a person with direct knowledge of the conversation told The Associated Press. That account was confirmed by another person close to Jolie.
“‘Entertainment Tonight’ was told before the broadcast that their information came from an impostor,” said the second person. Both people spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly.
The people said there were several conversations Friday, by e-mail, text message and telephone, between Goline and “Entertainment Tonight.” Meanwhile, the story was quickly challenged by several other celebrity news outlets.
[From Associated Press via The Huffington Post]
When I heard that this story wasn’t true I first assumed that ET was making shit up, as is common in a gossip industry that depends on exclusives, but when the news came out about the poser assistant I gave them a pass for getting duped. If they had multiple conversations with Angelina’s people there is no excuse for not issuing a retraction and continuing to run the story anyway. Way to go ET.
In moderately related news that we’re including here to avoid Brangelina burnout, Angelina’s partner Brad Pitt visited the art Basel fair in Basel, Switzerland on Tuesday and came away with hundreds of thousands in modern furniture. He was granted an advanced showing, as the exhibit was not yet open to the public. He purchased two bronze chairs by designer Max Lamb for $25,000 each, a “family lamp” made of foam and fiberglass, and a hollow marble table by designer Jeroen Verhoeven to the tune of $293,000. Organizers praised his knowledge of art and the questions he asked and said he was friendly and charismatic with staff. US Weekly points out that Angelina Jolie’s 33rd birthday was yesterday, and that Pitt may have been purchasing the furniture as a gift to her. I hope the reports that came out didn’t ruin it for her.
Thanks to The Huffington Post for the photos of Pitt’s purchases below.
Update: Commenter Elisha provides more insight into this story below. She says she’s a broadcaster and knows that ET is taped ahead of time and that it would have been difficult for them to re-do the entire show in the short period of time they had before it aired. It’s also possible that AP is trying to cover themselves by blaming ET for a story that they should have fact-checked in the first place.
Hm. I have a lot to say about this story as a broadcaster, but I’ll spare you guys.
OK, whatever, I’ll say some of it. My station airs ET. They actually shoot pretty early in the day, so all the stations have time to go on and get it (still not sure how it works, I’m not an engineer). ET IS NOT LIVE. So chances are, even though they knew the truth “a few hours before the broadcast”, ALL THE STATIONS ALREADY HAD IT READY TO GO.
So ET would’ve had to re-shoot and edit the segment, possibly changing the entire show since it was most likely the lede. And then all the stations would’ve had to re-go on and get it from the uplink thingy.
It’s possible since everyone’s in different time zones some of the shows may’ve already aired the original way before ET knew the truth.
Yes, ET still had time to change and probably could’ve done it. But it’s not that easy compared to a regular LIVE broadcast.
Here’s an example: on one industry message board I frequent, some East Coast people were hella complaining that ET “not only didn’t lede with Heath Ledger’s death… they didn’t mention it at all.” Someone else pointed out to the complainers that ET DID lede with Ledger’s death, but had already sent out their first show. So, in that case, it was the station’s fault for not grabbing the new version.
I don’t work in the traffic or MC depts, so I’m not exactly sure how accurate I am. And I’m not blaming the stations. It’s just a peek into how complicated this stuff is. In short, even if ET knew “a few hours before their broadcast” (which varies station to station) many stations probably already had the show ready to go.
must be annoying to have shady people around you who claim to be “friends”.
Wow, so much for journalistic integrity, even for E!
Let me put it this way, then I’ll stop. AP is trying to COVER. THEIR. ASSSSS!!! As I mentioned in the last post on this, we trust AP to be trust worthy and overall pretty reliable. They took the torch and ran with it, using ET as a source instead of checking things out on their own. Probably because they didn’t want other wire services to beat them to the punch.
One more thing, I PROMISE. The AP DOES NOT NAME their sources who supposedly “have firsthand knowledge” that ET knew beforehand that AJ didn’t give birth. While at the same time, critisizing ET for doing the same thing. This story is the AP making a big deal out of nothing, because they effed up by using ET as their source and putting out a bulletin. Putting out this story is making them sound even more stupid. I’m losing so much respect for the AP.
Thanks Elisha! I will update the post with these details and credit you.
Cool. I’m starting a thread on this on the message board I go to (TVSpy.com), I’m going to see what other people think. Especially to see how the people who grab the show for air feel.
HAHA I know I promised no more comments but I cam back here for the link to post it on that board.
Elisha, all I can say is rock on! 8)
I remember you in the intial “birth” post being very clear about how AP were adding credence to the story, but how the only source they were quoting was the ET lead. Which is kinda lazy and they should have made it much clearer that they were reporting the rumour rather than the fact until they verified it separately.
As for the second part of this post. Looks like true love of Braddy-boy’s life is over. This furniture is a very marked departure in taste from someone previously so dedicated to the Modern movement and its clear simple lines. These pieces are positively organic.
As for the table – it is a feat of workmanship, but it looks boggin’ from that angle. It would add a very modern element to a Rococo room though, so it would seem to me he bought it with a specific place in mind, and probably in France.
First of all, Angies LOVES the attention so it’s all good with her.
Second of all, that “organic” furniture looks like it was made from petrified poo, and the fact that Brad spent so much money on it proves that are not giving nearly enough of their money as they should.
boggin’, Mairead? Que? And I agree on the taste hiccup but I do really like the chair.
LOL Blance. From what I know it this business, we will never know the absolute truth but my instinct tells me that Angelina and her people had something to do with it. It is typically her style. They also have something to do with the 15 mln dolaer rumour.
The last art piece is such an image of Brad’s current life. Over burdened nanny. He is in a real spending mode. I guess he figures if he does not use some of his money, his lady love will finish it.
Perhaps the photography doesn’t do them justice? They are 3-D objects with specific textures which may mean they’re more attractive in reality.
But it sounds like somebody wants craftsmen, designers and artists to be unsuccessful and be destitute charity-cases themselves. Nice.
You do realise that the prices were probably set by the artist in advance, so presumably if Brad hadn’t bought it somebody else would have? Oh wait. Was that logic again?… doh!
I apologise… down with nasty people who buy things because they like them and can afford them. Off with their heels I say!:evil:
(oh wait. Crap. I do that too. I have to de-heel myself now! 😥 )
It’s possible (reluctantly), but I bet that table isn’t one tiny bit more attractive in reality than it is in that pic. Just his taste, I suspect. And I’m sure Ang loved that lamp. 😉
Still waiting on ‘boggin’?? Crap? Am I right?
The stuff looks like junk, I have some stuff similar in my attic, maybe Brad would like to but it. I will take much less for mine!
Sorry geronimo. I meant to qualify it as being boggin’ ugly. 😉 it;s one of those localised Irish things.
I actually don’t know whether to like the chair or not. I’d really need to see it in the flesh, for example I never really “got” Raphael’s paintings until I saw them in person and they blew me away.
But it looks like the trend towards more organic forms is definitely continuing. Whether we’ll return to Victorian “maximalism” remains to be seen.
The clean nature of modern interior design, in my mind, was reminiscent of the Georgian and Neoclassical periods, with lots of high ceilings and large rooms to capitalise on light, and joinery was panelled so as to play with light.
Furniture was minimal with simple elegant line and was influenced by the Roman era as the gentry, along with architects artists and designers went on the Grand Tour and visited the remains of Pompeii.
The (British & Irish) Victorian and Edwardian era, which includes North America, referenced the rich patterns and textures of the medieval and post-medieval period. The most influential building of the era were the Houses of Parliament in London and A.W.N. Pugin and William Morris were responsible for re-introducing Gothic architecture and historic design back into the public arena.
I have a theory that as Conservation of built heritage is becoming increasingly important globally (UNESCO’s Granada and Burra conventions defining it and many countries making it law to conserve buildings of significance) that it is forcing more and more designers and afficionados to take into consideration and be inspired by the design, scale and detail of historic buildings
(sorry for the ramble- I’m just availing of the opportunity to discuss the subject with a broad cross-section of people 😀
And if this were important news like a terrorist bombing or a political scandal, someone would have been fired for running the story. Instead we get this cutsie little ‘oops!!’
LOL! Geronimo! Sorry about the delay – I had my essay to write 😛
Actually. I was a bit too catty to Blance.
Blanche, I apologise. I realise that you may have no interest in art or design. But that’s no reason to be critical of you. the only explaination I can give is I’ve spent years defending “culture” and working to preserve heritage for those who cannot see it’s relevance and sometime I retailiate in a manner that is uncalled for. I apologise for taking it out on you.
If you’ve any questions I will try and help. Although it’s been many years since I finished Art History but I will answer any questions I can. There are other very design-savvy people here too (Bellatrix is definitely one) who will I’m sure clear up any mess I make of an explaination. 🙂
@Mairead – (unfolds arms, stops drumming fingernails on desk) Well thank you! lol!
Good point re the re-think on design because of the push to preserve and restore – interesting challenges to contempory furniture makers. Personally, I’m all for very clean unfussy lines (which is why I hate Brad’s table and lamp) but I do like quirky as well and the chair’s definitely got quirk.
I’m a self-confessed Brangaloonie, but even I think this furniture is some overpriced uncomfortable-looking bullshit.
And as for the “b-day presents for Angie” theory, I don’t think this is Angie’s style. She buys antiques. Seriously. She’s said so in interviews.
All of that money would have gotten a really nice ring. Bad move, Brad. Diamonds R 4 Eva.
Most Conservationists do like modern design too.
The way I see it is:
At the start of the 20th century lots of people questioned the relevance of the past to modern life (e.g. the Italian Futurist manifesto). Communism, slum clearances and the rebuilding of Europe after WW2 meant there was demand for plain design which could be built quickly. Utilitarian-brand furniture reflected this. So modern and post-modern design was reflecting the need in general society.
Eastern Europe is becoming even more influential in Conservation. They see the importance in maintaining their heritage as an expression of their national identity, which was stripped away by Communism.
Old and new can work well together, so long as the historic character of the old is respected and expected to shoe-horn into temporary ideas of style and how to live.
If you look at riai.ie/iaa2008/ The RIAI architecture awards has two conservation projects in its shortlist this year and a number of other buildings which are extensions or pavilions near much older structures.
Oh noooo Kaiser. There are ethical issues with diamonds (reletively low-paid miners working in foul conditions). So buying into an industry with unseemly aspects will be a black mark on Angie’s application for saint hood. 😛
Mairead, you are just a fountain of info today. 🙂 Since you’re so brilliant, can you explain something? Are estate/vintage pieces ever considered blood diamonds/”unethical”?
So excluding blood diamonds and maybe vintage pieces, what should Brad get her? A nice conflict-free sapphire, perhaps? 🙂
Wow- just wow. Who needs a library when I can just return to this thread? I guess brevity isn’t the word for the day?
That is one ugly chair. Imagine what the back of your thighs would look like if you sat on it wearing anything put long pants!
More like “boredom”
Oh I don’t think it’s for sitting on! It’s for admiring and looking at and placing strategically in your French chateau to show off your impeccable taste. No sitting!
Although it does look like it has a surface and texture not unlike a loofah or a body scrub thing so might actually be good for a quick shuffle about on to help get rid of cellulite?
So why Angelina is locked up in her house for 10 days?
Why doesn;t she even go outto the balcony as she did every day or shopping, or walking with her children?
Angelina tried to do what she did in Namibia with Shiloh ahd lie about the actual date of birth.
She had a scheduled C-section.
Only in Hollywood actresses would be so obsessed with their figure and how they look, that they would lie about giving birth.
And as forBrad flying to buy art: they are polluting more than a small country.
Their tasteless and ostentatious lifestyle shows their real colors.
Humanitarians lead a modest life style and wouldn’t spend such amounts of money on so many houses and art.
Environmentalists would never fly as often and by private jets.
She lied about Shiloh’s birth date?
Did she? Everyone’s lying about everything. I’m taking that as my starting point. I’m not even clear NOW whether she’s had the babies or not. They said she had but couldn’t confirm it and then they said she hadn’t but couldn’t confirm it either. Now they’re confirming they knew the fake story was fake but this could be fake too. The twins could be celebrating their 1st birthday by now for all I know.
I love this, so hilarious.
you crack me up geronimo
Touché Kaiser 😉
vdantev. Sowwee. It’s one of my pet subjects 😳
And boring you am I Bodhi? See if I share my Bombay gin with you again, yeh wench yeh 👿
I thought Bill Gates was a humanitarian now? Don’t see him beggaring off to live in a bungalow 😕
Angelina + Brad = hypocrites.
Bill gates donated 1 billion dollars to the united nations and still gives large amounts of money to various charities as well as research organizations. Bill just does not donate, he gets personally involved also. Bill gates is and always will be more of a humanitarian than Angelina will ever be.
Every one will be better humantarian that Angelina Jolie. Most people do it out o fth ekindness of their hearts, she does it to enhance her image. Still wonder why she makes a big deal out of it when viewed independently, they would not even make it in the top 50 celebrity humantarians. Someone should tell them that right now, they are the worst culprits when it comes to the environment. Three years ago she said she did not use private jets, now they are her thing, that and red carpets. Goes to show that she is in this for fame. I doubt she even likes Pitt, but when rumours of the affair surfaced, she got fame and attention that kissing her brother did not get her, so she decided to make a play for it.
The reason I mentioned Bill Gates is that I agree that the Gates’s Foundation does a tremendous amount of work (as you say) but by an earlier definition, it would count for nothing as a “true” humanitarian leads a modest life and doesn’t spend much money on homes, art or anything else.
And his house is nowhere near “modest”.
someone,lola
yes she is a fake humanitarian ,because the real ones lives on 3th world countries
bill gates-lives in namibia
oprah-zimbabwe
w. buffet-angola
brad pitt-france 😆 😆
You should know:-i bet you are the fake assistant,you have inside info…you even know shiloh real b day 😆
there is no excuse,et should just say that they were mislead.
But it sounds like somebody wants craftsmen, designers and artists to be unsuccessful and be destitute charity-cases themselves. Nice.
Maybe someone just thinks it’s incredibly fugly and way overpriced? I mean, listen, I’m all for the little man making his money, but $25,000 for one table chair is ridiculous, no matter how pretty it is, no matter whose name is on the label. $25,000 is a year of college tuition. $25,000 is a down payment on a house. $25,000 is NOT a fugly kitchen chair.
But so long as a select few people have more money than God and can’t think of anything better to do with, I suppose a select number of craftsmen, designers and artists will be supported by it.
why should anyone claim anything while Angelina is the one in hiding.
She flaunted her pregnancy evry chance she had, and now, had she been truthful, all she needed to do, is walk outside, or sit at the balcony as she did before and show the world she is pregnant.
Problem is, she is lying, and the email was not fake, but she wants some more time to loose weight and look better for her photo op.
She is busy negotiating how much money will she milk for the twins pic.
It is more than weird that she hasn’t even stepped outside for 10 days, not even on her balcony.
Her problem is that it’s not Namibia and she can not ban locals from an entire beach or close the airport, like she could in Namibia.
The pathetic liar is hiding like a prisoner, so she can look fabulous. The woman is sick and obsessed with her look.
Only the ones who lie, need to hide.
The assistant assumed, as any normal human being, that the mother wouldn’t lie about the date of the birth and released the information.
I feel sorry for her, because she must be going through hell with Angie’s tantrums.
That woman is crazy. It’s scary.
Angelina is a sick crazy woman who will tell a lie even when the truth is not that bad. I would not be surprised if she had those kids already. She must have had Shilohy earlier because I do not see any ine posing like that for pictures three days after having a baby. Pity she has hurt many people and uses many people in her quest for self enhancement.
I can never believe that a person who cannot forgive her father, hyrts another human being deliberately by ruining her marriage and humiliating her, uses private jets can be a true humantarian.
Who is Shilohy? Has she adopted another baby? Is it one of the new twins? God, Ange, is that the best you can do? Add a ‘y’ on to your existing baby’s name to make a new baby name? Lazy. I suppose the other twin is called Zaharay.
😆 i was just joshing Mariead! 😀
How prosaic, Geronimo. 🙂 Shilohy is their 15th child that THEY CAN’T AFFORD because THEY’RE BROKE because they PIMP their childern for millions of dollars and DON’T GIVE IT TO CHAIRTY because they aren’t REAL HUMANITARIANS because they will do anything to upstage POOR PITIFUL Jennifer Aniston who NO ONE SHOULD FEEL BAD FOR because she’s living such a FULFILLING LIFE sunbathing.
Shilohy? That Shilohy. 🙂
Well done, kaiser. An A for you. You HAVE been paying attention and I think you’ve covered all relevant points. It would have been an A+ but you forgot to mention them squandering their money on furniture they don’t even understand. 😀
😆
OK Bodhi. I forgive you 😀 A nice big mojito for you my girl. Any of you other ladies (and passing men) fancy some.
Besides. Yez’re all wrong about the twins they’re WAY older than a few weeks old. I was at university with them like! Brahdilyee was sound enough, but Ayngylyn was a friggin’ looper! 😈
sallysitwell – I actually agree with you that 50,000 for two bronze chairs is a surreal amount of money. I’ve still got latent socialist tendencies and would prefer a fairer distribution of wealth. But that;s unlikely to happen anytime soon.
But for 50 grand I’d want Henry Moore to come back from the dead to personally endorse them for that – but I’m fairly poor.
I’m not familiar with the artist – but bronze is not a cheap material, then add the cost of creating the casts, smelting as well as design, marketing, transport and an hourly wage for the artist and any assitants. As they can’t recoup the costs by making lots of copies, those that are made have to pay their way.
The only other alternative is state-sponsored art. And there are some great initiatives in many countries. But to have all art sponsored so as to be available to all – well. That just reminds me of the policies of the fascist dictators of the last century and so would have to be very carefully developed.
You should know:you scare me!! 😯
What kills me is how anybody can even pretend to know anyone else’s motivations for anything. I don’t even know my own motivation for things. I guess everyone else is WAY better friends with Angie and Brad then myself. (sarcastic sigh)
The furniture gives me a giggle. The first thing I thought of when I saw it was how they redid the house in “Beetlejuice”.