The National Enquirer said earlier this year that Paul Newman had surgery to remove cancer. His rep denied that. Newman said:

"I’m being treated for athlete’s foot and hair loss … maybe the doctors know something that I don’t!"

Despite the statement that he’s otherwise healthy, Newman withdrew as director for Of Mice and Men at the Westport Country Playhouse. Newman said:

"I’m very sorry I can’t be part of this Westport Country Playhouse production, but I leave ’Of Mice and Men’ in Mark Lamos’ very capable hands with the full support of my wife, Joanne Woodward, and Anne Keefe as Playhouse artistic directors."

Mark Lamos is set to take over for Newman. Get well soon!

Ted Kennedy was released from the hospital this morning. As much as most would like to remain optimistic, his malignant tumor will most likely kill him in the next 12 to 18 months.

Joaquin Phoenix (33) said he had to miss the premiere of his movie Two Lovers at the Cannes Film Festival on Monday due to the flu. Phoenix never even went to Cannes at all. He had to instead be admitted to the hospital to be hydrated with IV fluids. His rep, Susan Patricola, said:

"Joaquin has the stomach flu. He had his dog boarded, his tux in hand but couldn’t even sit on the plane. He did go to the hospital to get hydrated, hoping he could get on the plane, but he didn’t stay there. He was so sick, and so sorry he couldn’t be there with everyone."

The Two Lovers director, James Gray, said:

"He wanted to come. I said ’No, go to the doctor and see what he says.’ Sadly he followed my advice and they put him in the hospital."

It’s a good thing Phoenix took Gray’s advice. We don’t need anymore celebrities working themselves to death.

James Garner (80) was hospitalized on Friday after suffering a stroke. His rep says:

"He’s still in the hospital, but my understanding is he is doing well and will be going home soon. When, exactly, we have not been told yet."

Garner has been on TV and in the movies for decades. He also has one of the longest lasting marriages in Hollywood. He’s a great guy, and we wish him a speedy recovery, and many more years of great health and happiness.

Toni Braxton will not be returning to the Flamingo on Tuesday as planned. Doctors are now hoping Toni can return on June 6, but only if she is feeling well enough to perform.

Toni is still recovering after being hospitalized for chest pain. Doctors have asked Toni to take a longer rest to speed her recovery.

Get well Toni.