by Angie Barron

Created on: January 23, 2009   Last Updated: March 31, 2009

You thought they were dead, but the cats came back the very next day. Well, maybe not quite that quickly. These cats needed a little time to figure out how to best launch into their second, third and in some cases fourth lives. 2008 was a good year for the forgotten. Let's face it, the red carpet didn't get that way from fabric dye. That is the blood of the fallen my friends, and Hollywood isn't always pretty. It's all about timing sometimes. When a star looses it's luster and fades into the background some calculated plans must be made. With the help of their publicists these stars did it just right.

Britney spears hit the bottom hard and we were there for every painful moment. Some may blame the paparazzi for much of the mess, but this young star seems to be dusting herself off and getting right back on her glittery pink horse. As her family shows some much needed support and begins to take more responsibility for Britney's welfare, we start to see a change emerging. The dysfunction level is dropping and the Britney we saw on "How I met Your Mother" looks suspiciously like a normal and happy human being. Good for you Brit, and not a moment too soon.

The smash hit "Dancing with the Stars" is paving the way for some notable career rejuvenations as well. Good for Mr. Mario Lopez, better for Cloris Leachmen. This senior hottie entertained us all with her quick steps and quicker wit. This woman should be honored for her commitment to difficult and physically demanding routines and even more so for her sense of humor about it all. Way to go Cloris, you're my hero.

Scientologist and mommy hater Tom Cruise has had a lot of explaining to do lately. After a few apologies Tom seems to be back on track, or getting there. Ok Tom we'll give you another chance but no more shenanigans! Maybe we should all shell out a few bucks and see Valkyrie...come on guys he said he was sorry.

Robert Downey Jr is always a crowd favorite. With a speckled past filled with police run-ins and drug related hullabaloo, it's no wonder he's one of our most lovable celebrities. Robert showed his iron (well, steal to be precise) side in "Iron Man" in 2008 and also lent his acting chops to "Tropic Thunder" alongside Jack Black and Ben Stiller. Mr. Downey's unapologetic wit will always give him a special place in the hearts of his fans, and I believe he will come back again and again...and again.

We can't forget the object of Tom Cruise's former rage Brooke Sheilds now can we. The end of HBO's hit show "Sex and the City" left many woman hungry for a new obsession. As rumors of the movie version began to fly women everywhere were counting the days. But wait? What is this? A new show? Just as good, maybe even better?....no it can't be! But it was, and Brook Shields is a part of it. I'm talking about NBC's "Lipstick Jungle". The concept is much like "Sex and the City" only a bit more "mature", say critics. Good job Brooke, and your hair looks fabulous.

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