Jennifer Aniston Watch

Prior to the start of 2007, Jen had said that she would take some downtime. Well, I don’t know about you, but my downtime doesn’t look like this! This year, our girl made some smart business decisions and won praise for her work both in front of and behind the camera. Furthermore, she has set herself up for a very exciting 2008, with two movies in the can and at least two more lined up. Here’s a rundown of what Jen’s been up to in the past 365 days:

People’s Choice! Jen started the year on a high note, winning the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Female Movie Star. She gave a gracious speech with just the right amount of good humor and showed why she is the people’s favorite.

Room 10 makes the rounds Jen’s directorial debut, filmed in the summer of 2006 for Glamour’s Reel Moments series, made its way around the festival circuit, earning a great deal of praise along the way. The film showed at venues that included SBIFF, Aspen Shortsfest, CineVegas (where it won the Short Film Jury Prize), and Palm Springs. This will without a doubt open up many behind-the-camera opportunities for Jen, should she choose to pursue them.

A Smart Move Early in the year, Jen watchers noticed that in many candids, Jen was seen carrying a bottle of Glaceau’s smartwater. In June, we found out that Jen was turning her passion into profit, appearing in billboards and magazine ads for the drink. Jen also invested in the company just before its sale to Coca-Cola, a move that landed Jen on the Forbes list of 2007’s savviest businesswomen.

GLAAD to be Dirty In March, Jen appeared on Courteney’s show Dirt in the Season 1 finale, titled Ita Missa Est. Jen played Tina Harrod, a rival magazine editor with whom Lucy had once had a “four-time thing.” This portrayal, along with Jen’s long history of participation in projects that challenge heteronormative convention, earned her this year’s GLAAD Vanguard Award.

Back On The Set The second half of the year brought a flurry of activity, film-wise. She joined the star-studded cast of He’s Just Not That Into You, and filmed her part in September. She then made her way to Oregon to film a very quirky part in the comedy Management. She has also signed on the dotted to star in Traveling with Aaron Eckhart and Marley & Me with Owen Wilson. Both are set to begin production in early 2008.

With that, I’d like to wish my readers a happy and healthy new year. See you in 2008!

Jennifer Aniston, year in review, films

Despite what the rumor mill would have us believe, it seems that Jen is spending the season with those who mean a lot to her - her friends. On Christmas Eve, a smiling Jen was spotted and snapped leaving Mastro’s, with Courteney close behind. Looking at that grin, it seems that a wonderful time was had by all; not even the paps could dampen her spirits! Check out more pics of the girls’ night out at PopSugar.

It looks like the festive fun will continue into the new year! Faded Youth has pics of Jen boarding a private jet with Courteney, David, and Coco. And is that Jon Favreau in the fedora? The pals often spend New Year’s Eve in Cabo San Lucas, and it seems that they may be headed there once again.

Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, sightings, Christmas Eve

New York’s holiday festivities are noted the world over, so it’s no surprise that a show set there would mark the season in a festive way. The backdrop of a New York winter, combined with the Friends’ own religious and cultural traditions, ensured that viewers often enjoyed memorable holiday episodes. Here is a sampling of Friends celebrations of Christmas, Chanukah, and other December holidays over the years:

Season 1 - TOW The Monkey This episode centers around the New Year’s Eve bash at Monica’s and the not-so-gradual dissolution of the Friends’ “no-date pact.” In a Christmas-themed twist, Joey meets his date (a single mom) while working as a department-store elf. Meanwhile, Phoebe brings David, Chandler brings Janice (of course), and Ross brings Marcel.

Season 2 - TOW Phoebe’s Dad Monica throws a holiday party in her very own sauna after the knob on her radiator breaks; meanwhile, holiday tipping becomes a source of tension. Meanwhile, Chandler and Joey, who accompany Phoebe on her quest to meet her dad, return with some rather unconventional Christmas presents for the gang.

Season 3 - TOW Rachel Quits In this episode, Joey gets a job selling Christmas trees, while Ross lands his own gig selling Christmas cookies to help a little girl meet her sales goals.

Season 4 - TOW The Girl From Poughkeepsie This season’s festivities were limited to a very unique Phoebe song, in which all of her friends were included (albeit in rather unusual fashion).

Season 5 - TOW All The Resolutions The Friends make New Year’s resolutions - and Rachel’s resolution not to gossip comes at a most inconvenient time.

Season 6 - TOW The Routine Rachel and Phoebe enlist Chandler’s help in searching for Monica’s Christmas presents, while Joey, Monica and Ross bust a move on the set of Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.

Season 7 - TOW The Candy & TOW The Holiday Armadillo Monica kicks off the holiday season by making festive candy for the neighbors - who still don’t know her name. Then, Ross suits up as the Holiday Armadillo to teach Ben about Chanukah, and incorporates Santa and Superman in the lesson. Meanwhile, Phoebe shows off her prized Christmas skull, which serves as a reminder that “even though it’s Christmas, people still die.”

Season 8 - TOW The Creepy Holiday Card Ross and Mona’s relationship is progressing at warp speed - or at least that’s what the card would have you believe.

Season 9 - TOW Christmas In Tulsa Spending Christmas away from Monica leads Chandler to realize his priorities for the future.

No holiday episode in Season 10.

Friends, Christmas, Chanukah, New Year’s, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, David Schwimmer

We all admire Jen’s easy, elegant style, and she has without a doubt continued to dazzle on red carpets this year. It seems that Access Hollywood would agree with that sentiment, as they have named Jen one of their best dressed stars of 2007! On the list, she joins stylish stars such as Rihanna, Reese Witherspoon, and He’s Just Not That Into You costar/producer Drew Barrymore. The refreshing thing is that Jen continues to impress while remaining true to her classic, comfortable style; indeed, the list cites her as “proving a woman can go classic and conservative and still be majorly sexy.” Even her casual style stays true to this principle . . .

Earlier this week, Jen was photographed running errands in LA (more pics can be seen at PopSugar). Throughout the various pics, one can conclude that she is both well-hydrated and festive, as she is seen carrying a holiday package and a bottle of smartwater. Her outfit is so simple, but I adore it. It is a very quintessentially Jen outfit. And as we can see, she rocks the trench coat both onscreen and off. Tres chic.

Finally, in the ten-steps-ahead-yet-kind-of-adorable category, Celebrity Baby Blog offers its speculation on how Jen would dress a baby daughter. Jen is already a doting godmother to Courteney’s daughter Coco, and the blog speculates that Jen would dress a daughter of her own in comfortable, all-American classics with a nature-inspired twist. And of course, the little one would have fabulous hair, just like her mom. Random though it may be, the article does spotlight some chic threads for casual-cool kids everywhere.

Jennifer Aniston, style, best dressed, sightings, hypothetical babies

For years, Jen’s corgi-terrier mix Norman has been a reliable presence at her side, with new addition Dolly joining the happy family last year. However, in recent months, very few have seen Norman, and sightings of Jen with Dolly made Norman’s absence all the more conspicuous. Well, PageSix.com has taken it upon themselves to settle the confusion and to ease the minds of worried Jen watchers everywhere. After extensive questioning of many insiders, the site received word from Stephen Huvane that Norman is “alive and well.” Seeking further reassurance, a new entry asks readers for their Norman sightings:

We don’t not believe the flack, but we’d love to know if you see Norman. Please tell us when and where he’s made an appearance at gossip@pagesix.com.

And don’t worry about the blonde he’s with — it’s all about the dog.

Recent Malibu evacuations have understandably made it less likely that Norman would be spotted in his usual spot on the beach; nevertheless, it is always a relief to hear from somebody in the know that he is okay. Clearly, he has simply learned to fly under the radar, and as many can attest, he’s learned that talent from an expert. Given that he got his start as an actor, it is good to know that he’s managed to at least master that aspect of the business.

Recent pics indicate that Jen has returned to Malibu; she has been snapped in front of her home there (reportedly with Norman and Dolly in tow). X17 has more pictures, although despite what the commentary might suggest, her holiday plans are not known to anybody but her and her nearest and dearest. Hopefully this return means that the stage is set for a peaceful, worry-free holiday season surrounded by loved ones and the comforts of home.

Jennifer Aniston, Norman, gossip, photos

It’s been a quiet couple of weeks for Jen watchers, as Jen’s managed to fly under the radar while enjoying her downtime between projects (Traveling is set to begin production in January). However, the eagle eyes at People spotted her enjoying some fine cuisine - and greeting the chef. From Caught In The Act:

Jennifer Aniston, offering a personal greeting to chef Nancy Silverton while dining at Hollywood’s Osteria Mozza with a female friend. The actress approached the counter – where Silverton was prepping – and waved ‘hello.’ The chef reciprocated with a “virtual wave” since her hand was covered with flour.

Not only that, but X17 has pictures of her leaving the restaurant that night, keeping warm for the quick dash to the car. And didn’t People say that she was with a female friend? I’m pretty sure that I see Chris in the background of one of the shots. There’s a joke in there somewhere that I’ll just skip. Maybe she was with both him and a female friend. Anyway, see the snaps here.

Jennifer Aniston, sightings, candids, Mozza

Back in 2001, Jen filmed The Good Girl with Jake Gyllenhaal, who at the time was a relative newcomer (his credits at the time included Donnie Darko and Bubble Boy). Not only did they share the screen in the quirky flick, but they shared a love scene, which for both actors marked a first. Jen was notably apprehensive about simulating such a private moment for all to see; she told In Style upon the film’s release that “unless you’re someone who gets off on having people watch you - which I’m certainly not - it’s weird having 40 crew members look at you in such an intimate situation.”

However, she did find solace in Jake’s own approach to the moment, as she told the magazine that “Jake was as nervous as I was. Finally you just go for it. I couldn’t ask for a better, sweeter person to be devirginized on film with.” For his part, Jake discussed his experience working on the scene: “We had been making out for weeks in other scenes, and this was just some more hip grinding; some more kissing. Jennifer turned to me at one point and said, ‘That wasn’t so hard. I’ve faked it before.’” Throughout the production, he developed something of a protective stance toward his leading lady; he says that at one point, “I remember we were in bed one day, and Miguel Arteta screamed, ‘Stop joking around.’ And I thought, ‘This is Jennifer Aniston, motherf***er. You don’t yell at her.’”

Furthermore, they have continued to show a great deal of respect for each other’s work over the years. In 2005, Jen was on hand at the Hollywood Film Festival to present Jake with a Hollywood Breakthrough Award. Earlier this year, Jake returned the favor, presenting Jen with her GLAAD Vanguard Award. He gave a great presentation speech, citing Jen’s warmth and integrity as traits that he has come to know personally, and upon her arrival onstage he greeted her with a kiss. As Jake himself put it, “Everybody falls in love with Jennifer, and I have to say, it’s always her fault.”

Jennifer Aniston, Jake Gyllenhaal, The Good Girl, costars, GLAAD Media Awards

Whether your nearest and dearest celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Festivus, or just a December birthday, you are most likely looking for gifts right about now. Well, if you have a fellow Jen fan on your list, here are a few ideas (provided, of course, that your recipient does not already possess these items):

DVD’s

Dirt: Season 1 Here’s one that nobody has yet, as its release date is December 11. Not only does Jen’s costar and confidante Courteney star in this FX series, but Jen herself appears in the season finale as rival editor Tina Harrod. And yes, they kissed. This set is currently available for pre-order on Amazon, and it hits stores on Tuesday.

Office Space - Special Edition with Flair This cult classic was rereleased a couple of years ago with additional special features, including behind-the-scenes interviews and deleted scenes. Available on Amazon and anywhere DVD’s are sold.

Friends - The Complete Series Collection While the Frienatic on your list most likely already has all, or at least most, of the series on DVD, those who don’t will without a doubt regard this comprehensive, collectible 40-disk set as the ultimate Friends jackpot. Available on Amazon.

Decor

Rumor Has It poster Allposters.com carries this full-size, double sided poster - and promises delivery by December 24.

Derailed poster Poster Check Out carries this poster - as well as posters for Bruce Almighty and Along Came Polly.

Framed Rolling Stone cover This retro portrait of Jen and her Friends costars is framed for display - and also available for timely delivery.

Jennifer Aniston, gift ideas

Jen has often been noted for her rare ability to be both hilarious and moving in a single moment; from her work on Friends to her film work, she has created moments much like those in our own lives where the emotions are complex and not neatly categorized. Indeed, it could be said that Jen’s recognition of this quality in life has contributed to her approach to her craft. In 2004, she told Premiere magazine, “Life is funny. Life isn’t categorized into comedy, drama, action, is it? So I don’t know why they try to categorize everything.” True to this sentiment, much of her best work blurs the genre lines.

CHUD (Cinematic Happenings Under Development) recently interviewed acting coach Anthony Abeson, who taught Jen at LaGuardia High School for the Performing Arts. Jen fans may recall that during her time there, Jen got laughs during a scene from Chekhov’s Three Sisters - and it was Anthony who told her that this was a gift. In the midst of his critiques of the current state of show business, he cites Jen’s instinct for genuine emotion as something that sets her apart among her peers. He goes on to say that she possessed that trait early:

But the thing that’s remarkable, and something I can’t take credit for, is what she had when I met her. That story about doing Chekhov and people laughed; with your theater background, I’m sure you remember that Stanislavsky drove Chekhov crazy. Chekhov kept saying, “These are comedies!” Particularly with regard to Three Sisters, which is what Jennifer was working on at the time. Chekhov said, “You’re making my characters crybabies!” For decades and decades, this was one of the classic artistic nuts to crack: how to find the humor in Chekhov - which is very pastel and, admittedly, difficult to discover. And here was this kid who was a teenager at the time who just naturally solved it. It was remarkable! She just went in there and made Chekhov truthful, and she found the humor! That’s really astonishing! I can’t take credit for that. But what I also tried to share with Jennifer, and what I say to everybody, is, “Listen, that’s the kind of talent that deserves to work with the giants.”

Indeed, she has continued to hone that talent and in doing so has created many memorable characters. The one common thread that connects the diverse array of characters that she has played is humanity; these seem like people who might actually exist. The viewer shares the character’s journey and in doing so relates to the sometimes strange way that life happens.

Jennifer Aniston, Anthony Abeson, acting, genre, technique

Public interest being what it is, there will always be interest in Jen’s love life, as evidenced by the headlines that surface even in the absence of any actual news. However, amid the Pauls and the Orlandos, one name has continued to surface in these discussions: Vince Vaughn. He and Jen split a year ago; however, they have made no secret of their continued respect for one another and sightings in recent weeks have brought the chatter up to a dull roar. To recap:

Last week, Jen and Vince were spotted together at the Beverly Hills hot spot Bar Nineteen 12 upon her return from the Oregon set of Management, according to Life & Style Weekly. The National Ledger’s take on the story:

The pair were spotted snuggling and being very friendly by witnesses at the posh Bar Nineteen 12 in the Beverly Hills Hotel recently, the weekly entertainment magazine reports.

“They were having fun, talking and laughing”, says a witness. “They were chatting away like old friends”. The story then adds the inevitable, “Or friends with benefits?” It’s been almost a year off for the couple dubbed Vaughniston as the pair officially split last December.

So basically, they had dinner together. Sounds perfectly innocuous to me. After all, “old friends” do a lot together. Like racquetball. Smart, healthy racquetball.

More recently, Beauty Banter reported a sighting of Jen and Vince at the Sunset Towers in LA.

JENNIFER ANISTON at the Sunset Towers (in LA) having dinner with…. VINCE VAUGHN (and some other randoms).

She looked great - casual in jeans and a black shirt, healthy figure, honey-colored shoulder length hair (shorter then usual), minimal make-up, and constant smiles!

. . .

AND, Jen and Vince seemed quite “chummy.” Just Friends… we’re thinking, NOT!

Time and photographic evidence will tell, both about the “chumminess” and the reported change in coiffure.

Let’s also bear in mind another oft-mentioned possibility: work. The Break-Up did wonderful things for both Jen and Vince. It does not seem so far-fetched that these meetings might be about working together again. Of course, given how busy Jen is and will continue to be in the near future, it may be a while before she signs on the dotted for anything else. So in conclusion . . . time will tell.

Jennifer Aniston, Vince Vaughn, gossip