Madge and Guy: yes, we're divorcing:
The rumours first reared their ugly heads a few months ago, but since then it had all seemed to die down, and we were all really hoping that Madge and Guy had managed to sort out their differences. Alas, this is not the case, as today it has been confirmed that Madonna will be splitting from her husband of almost eight years, Guy Ritchie. A source very close to the couple said that although the pair had worked very hard and trying to make their marriage work, they could no longer "bear to live with the pretence" that things were fine. The pair's relationship allegedly deteriorated amid huge rows about each other's work, with both Madge and Guy wanting time to spend more time on their respective careers. The source said, "It's very sad. They were a great couple and brilliant parents. They just couldn't live together anymore." Cracks have been appearing for a while now, and friends say that the separation has been on the cards for some time. "They both knew deep down that divorce was on the cards," explains the friend, "It wasn't a matter of 'if' but 'when'." Madonna had allegedly wanted to wait until her Sticky And Sweet tour had finished before announcing the news, but Guy has had enough of waiting and this time put his foot down. An official statement is expected to be released later today, but last night a spokeswoman for Madonna refused to comment. Oh dear. It's all a bit sad, isn't it? We'll keep you updated as and when more news reaches us about the divorce today.

Simon Cowell up for Brit award
Now, nobody can argue the fact that Simon Cowell is a very clever man, but we're not sure how people are going to feel about the plan to give him a Brit award. Yep, we know he hasn't actually ever sung anything himself, but that hasn't stopped the Brits Committee approaching him to see if he'd be willing to accept an Outstanding Contribution award at this year's Brits ceremony. The Committee, which is made up from experts and performers from the music industry, put the idea across to the super-rich X factor judge – and he's thrilled. However, there are fears that awarding Simon will cause trouble. The award has previously been presented to music legends such as Davie Bowie, Paul Weller and Oasis – and giving it to a man who has never written a song is sure to ruffle some feathers. A source admitted, "If Cowell gets the big gong it will cause an almighty stink in the music game." Despite past acts such as Zig & Zag, Robson and Jerome and The Power Rangers, Simon does have a lot of influence on the charts today, and the meteroric rise of X Factor winner Leona Lewis has helped. What do you think? Does Simon deserve the award, or should it go to a more conventional artist?

Diana's a diva
She might look all sweetness and light on the show, but sources behind the scenes say that The X Factor's Diana is already turning into a bit of a diva. "Diana comes across as really angelic and sweet on the show, but she makes a bit of a fuss. Most people behind the scenes think she needs a bit of a kick up the backside," says a source. Insiders say that despite cameras being around the contestants all the time, blonde Diana isn't happy to be filmed unless she's had her full make-up done – resulting in the nickname "Princess Diana". Oh dear – it's a bit soon to be getting a rep as a diva, Diana. Luckily, the judges were blown away by her verison of U2's With Or Without You on Saturday – maybe just lay off the demands for white lillies and scented candles in the dressing room for the time being, eh, Di.
 
Corrie to release Rover's Return beer!
Amazing news for Corrie and, er, booze fans (that's all of us, then) as the show is set to produce the Newton & Ridley beer availiable in the Rovers. Yes, you too can make like Michelle Connor and pretend you're pulling pints in the Rovers (is it just us that does this?) when ITV bosses license production of the beer as part of a franchise deal. But wait – it gets better – there are also plans to produce saucy knickers as made in the Underworld factory! The new range will be sold as part of the run-up to the Street's 50th anniversary and basically is the best promo idea we've heard of since Katy Perry brought out her own Cherry Chapsticks. *smugly looks at own Cherry Chapstick on desk*