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Scoop for the Week of August 10th

© Apryl Duncan

Wrongful Death Suit Filed Rebecca Gayheart is facing a wrongful death suit after the 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee she was driving struck and killed a nine-year-old boy. Jorge Cruz and Silvia Martinez say Jorge Cruz, Jr., was crossing the street in Hollywood, on his way home from school. One driver stopped and waved him across the intersection. According to the couple's attorney, Rebecca swerved around the car to pass and that's when the accident occurred. The Jeep's owner has also been named in the suit seeking unspecified damages as well as hospital and funeral expenses. Rebecca released a statement responding to the suit's claims. "There are no words to express my sorrow and regret over the accident. I send my prayers, thoughts and deepest sympathy to the family. Despite the allegations in the lawsuit, the facts will establish that this was a most unfortunate accident. The pain of this tragedy will live with me forever," she said. The couple's attorney also claims Rebecca was using a cell phone at the time of the accident. It's a charge Rebecca's attorney, Martin Singer, adamantly denies. "That's absolutely false. She was not on a cell phone at any time," he said. Since the accident, Rebecca hasn't driven another vehicle because it's been a "horrifying" experience for her. Singer also claims she has already paid funeral expenses for the child and adds, "It was a young boy who was jaywalking, and he was running across the street when he was struck by the car."

Ben Enters Rehab Ben Affleck has entered a California rehabilitation center to undergo treatment for alcohol abuse. His publicist released a statement regarding the actor's voluntary action. "Ben is a self-aware and smart man who has decided that a fuller life awaits him without alcohol," publicist David Pollick said. "He has chosen to seek out professional assistance and is committed to traveling a healthier road with the support of his family, friends and fans." Ben won't be lonely, though. He's staying at the same rehab center as comedian Paula Poundstone and actor Robert Downey, Jr.

On a related note, Robert spent the day out of rehab, filming a music video for Elton John. Elton actually requested that he appear in the video for "I Want Love." So Robert spent the day in Beverly Hills lip-synching the song. His publicist says Robert "is progressing very well" through his treatment.

Singers Who Aren't Singing

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