Dear Gossips,

The New Yorker finally published that long-awaited exposé on TMZ yesterday, have you read it yet? The piece confirms what you probably already know if you live online – that many of TMZ’s sources are celebrities themselves, or at least the people who represent them. Also Ellen DeGeneres tried to send Harry Levin a fruit basket. And Alec Baldwin is as creative with his words as Charlie Sheen. Click here to read the article.

And just as this academic analysis of TMZ was released, TMZ was doing TMZ – breaking the story that Rihanna had pulled out of her performance at the Grammys due to bronchitis. She was in the building, she’d been rehearsing, but could not continue with the live show on doctor’s orders. I believe this. Because on Saturday night she enthusiastically honoured Lionel Richie at the MusiCares gala (photos of her at that event are attached) and also, remember, she kicks off her tour in just over a week or so.

Lauryn Hill on the other hand…

Lauryn was at rehearsal with The Weeknd. There’s an Instagram photo and several tweets to prove it. As you saw though, Lauryn did not show up for the broadcast. She claims (via her reps) that she pulled out because the Grammys confirmed her appearance without her being OK with them confirming her appearance:

"The Grammy's announced a performance by Ms. Lauryn Hill prematurely and without approval. Ms. Hill had concerts all weekend, leaving no time to prepare, and was uncertain she would even be able to make it to LA in time to rehearse for the event. Any performance that could have happened was never confirmed, and should not have been advertised as such. Ms. Hill was invited to do a collaboration with an artist she appreciates. The performance was intended to be a surprise and unfortunately due to its last minute nature, was unable to come to fruition."

The Grammys version of the story is that they were expecting her, that they always intended for it to be a surprise to have to her sing with The Weeknd, and that, well, it didn’t end up happening because, um, because Lauryn was late. I also believe this. Because I have waited for Lauryn. As have many of you. Punctuality isn’t her thing.

Highlights from the Grammys to follow. And please check LifeStyle for fashion photos too.

If you’re returning from a long weekend, it was gossip as usual yesterday with posts spread over two pages. Please scroll down and click VIEW OLDER to get caught up on all of them.

Yours in gossip,

Lainey