Heath Ledger’s Death

In January of 2008 the world suffered such a great loss. The talent of a bright young star slipped away after Heath Ledger died of an accidental overdose of medication. He left behind a world in mourning for the loss of someone who touched many lives. The star’s untimely demise launched the second installment of Christopher Nolan’s Batman movies into a frenzy. His show stealing performance of the Joker has already scored a Golden Globe nomination.

Miley Cyrus Topless Photos

Miley Cyrus isn’t shy when it comes to cameras. She has numerous “scandalous photos” that she reportedly took with her own cell phone. Then the tween role model appeared topless but covered by a sheet in Vanity Fair. Parents of adoring fans everywhere were furious. The Hannah Montana star issued an apology for the offending photos taken by Annie Leibovitz.

Triple Murder of Jennifer Hudson’s Family

Jennifer Hudson suffered a devastating huge loss this year. Her mother, brother and nephew were murdered in their home in Chicago. The family is still awaiting to find justice. No one has been convicted of the murders. However, police are convinced they have the killer behind bars. An ex-brother in law is said to be the culprit who selfishly took the lives of three very loved people.

Britney Spears. Period.

Britney Spears started her year in a psychiatric ward after her family committed to an intervention. After loosing custody of her sons and suffering through a breakdown, she ends the year making what is being called the biggest comeback. Her “Circus” album is sitting on top at number one.

Jamie Lynn Spears Gives Birth

The little sister of Britney Spears rocked the controversy cradle with a baby. The 16 year old Jamie Spears gave birth to Maddie Briann on June 19th. The news of the teen mother created an avalanche of outraged parents. Her Nickelodeon show, “Zoey 101” has yet to resume filming thanks to the outpouring of disapproval.

Twilight Mania

“Twilight” grossed over $100 million in it’s first week and launched Robert Pattinson into the hearts of girls (and some boys) across the world. Hysteria marked red carpets as teenaged girls camped out for days to catch a glimpse of the guy who played Edward Cullen. (I lovingly call him R.Patz Sparklepants.) However, he is too busy with a love triangle of his own. [Click Here for the details on Robert Pattinson’s girlfriend status.] The his costar, Kristen Stewart, stirred up the press with photos of her smoking pot in broad daylight on her front porch. [Click here for those photos.]

Runners Up

Angelina Jolie “crapped out” twins in July. Vivienne Marcheline and Knox Leon scored the Jolie-Pitt clan a multi-million dollar photo deal for the covers of several magazines.

Madonna and Guy Ritchie Divorce was something that was seen coming from the start of the year. Their bitter split have both camps hurling crass comments. Meanwhile, Madonna has been entertaining Alex Rodriguez. Madge and A-Rod have been having an affair while official divorce proceedings are in the works.

Lindsay Lohan had a great year. She became a lesbian and did her first nude photo shoot. The starlet recreated Marilyn Monroe’s infamous “Last Sitting” photo spread in February for New York Magazine.

Images Via: Wenn, Wire Image, AP Photos, Yahoo, New York Magazine