We named her “Daisy”, an adorable Jack Russell Terrier puppy that I procured as a surprise Christmas present for my then partner, Tom, in 2006. Daisy had a famous mom – Nicole Kidman – who is being honored tonight at the Palm Springs International Film Festival with the Star Award for Babygirl. Here’s my “brush with greatness” story.
Daisy, pictured on the left, was procured by Kidman along with the other puppy in 2006. Kidman got the pups from my friend, Hollywood-breeder-to-the-stars Aaron. He knew I already had “Nipper”, a Jack Russell terror that my ex had gotten me as a surprise Christmas present just a few years earlier and was in the market for another.
Nipper, my ex, Tom, and I all lived a wonderful life in Chicago in those days. But the west coast was calling for a career opportunity in radio, and I moved to Hollywood in 2005 without them. Nipper became joint custody.
Nicole and Keith married in June, 2006, according to PEOPLE. The two puppies pictured were soon added to the household. But four months after the wedding, Nicole staged an intervention for Urban, who went to rehab. The puppies came back to the Aaron. He knew I missed having Nipper full time, and called me to come take a look. It was love – doggie style – at first sight.
I surprised Tom with Daisy that Christmas when he flew into the Burbank Airport with Nipper. The two dogs became fast friends, and grew up mostly together before Tom and I split in 2007. Daisy went back to Chicago and stayed with him for a long life that spanned some 13 years. Nipper lived to be nearly that old, but the two rarely saw each other after the breakup.
The photo of Kidman and her puppies was given to me by Aaron, and I’ve had it tucked away in a chest drawer full of memories. When I read about Kidman coming to the Film Festival, I thought about trying to show her the photo and let her know what a good life that dog had. She probably wouldn’t remember, but I do…and the now the story is told.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Palm Springs International Film Festival
The Palm Springs International Film Festival 2025 is underway from January 2–13 at multiple theaters across the valley. The festival features over 160 films from more than 70 countries; it’s a fantastic way to experience a diverse range of films from around the world, connect with filmmakers and stars, and immerse yourself in the year’s top offerings! Browse the Festival’s Film/Event Finder to filter by LGBTQ, Gay, and Lesbian titles (and many more). [Get tickets].
The super-glam Palm Springs International Film Awards takes place on Friday, January 3 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. This star-studded event will honor outstanding achievements in film, with awards going to actors such as Ariana Grande, Adrien Brody, Timothée Chalamet, Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini and Angelina Jolie, among others. More info
For special live coverage of red carpet arrivals at the film awards, tune to News Channel 3 between 5–6:30 pm for updates and a full half-hour special “Live from the Red Carpet” airing from 5:30–6 pm on Friday, January 3. Learn more
Aaron Tveit
Aaron Tveit performs at the McCallum Theatre on Saturday, January 4 at 8 pm. Tveit, the Tony Award-winning star of Moulin Rouge! The Musical on Broadway, is known for his exceptional talent in theatre, television, and film, gained widespread recognition for originating roles on Broadway, such as Gabe in Next to Normal and Frank Abagnale Jr. in Catch Me If You Can. His film credits include playing Enjolras in the movie adaptation of Les Misérables and Danny Zuko in Grease Live! Get tickets
RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17 Watch Party
Get ready for an electrifying night as RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17 premieres on Friday, January 3! Head to one eleven bar at 7:30 pm for a fabulous watch party hosted by the incomparable Norma Lee High. The excitement continues every Friday throughout the season, so don’t miss a single episode and join the fun with fellow fans in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Vanity’s DollHaus follows at 9 pm. More info
Palm Springs Vintage Market
The Palm Springs Vintage Market continues its grand return to downtown Palm Springs in its twelfth season this Sunday, January 5 from 7 am–2 pm. As Southern California’s premier destination for vintage finds and retro treasures, this vibrant market attracts locals, visitors, and design aficionados. Open the first Sunday of the month from October through May, the market’s new location is adjacent to the downtown casino. More info
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Friday, January 3
Country Dance Fridays: American Kids Line Dance with Kyle Young | 7 pm at Step by Step
LOOKING AHEAD
DBA’s $25 for 2025 Celebration
Celebrate the New Year with the Desert Business Association’s $25 for 2025 Celebration on Monday, January 6 from 5–8 pm at Boozehounds. For just $25, DBA members and guests can toast to 2025 while honoring the resilience, innovation, and leadership of LGBTQ+ and Allied businesses that uplift the community. Enjoy a delicious Boozehounds Taco Bar and some local entertainment as we foster economic inclusion and celebrate the future together. Get tickets
