A good week for ...
John Galliano
The British fashion designer whose career imploded after a videotaped anti-Semitic rant was found guilty, but given a suspended fine of Euro6,000 (HK$64,600) by a French tribunal in connection with two separate bar clashes in Paris. The court did not give Galliano prison time. Presiding judge Anne-Marie Sauteraud said the magistrates' clemency was in part due to the designer's apologies to the court and the plaintiffs. The fashion industry is waiting to see whether Galliano will manage to rehabilitate his image and make a comeback.
Eddie Murphy
His once meteoric career seemed destined for the scrap heap after a string of flops, but the one-time golden boy of comedy was thrown a lifeline with the chance to host next year's 84th annual Academy Awards. In the tradition of Bob Hope, Billy Crystal and Steve Martin, Oscar is returning to its comedic roots with Murphy as host. The last comic to host the show alone was Jon Stewart in 2008. A singing, dancing Hugh Jackman took over in 2009, and in recent years, pairs of actors have helmed the event.
Liang Wengen
The chairman of mainland heavy machinery maker Sany Heavy Industry was named China's richest man by both Forbes China and the Hurun Rich List last week. The 55-year-old from Hunan topped the annual wealth rankings - Forbes put his fortune at HK$72.5 billion and Hurun at HK$85.3 billion. Second-richest on the Forbes list was Wahaha Group boss Zong Qinghou and Baidu chairman Li Yanhong was third. Liang is set to add to his wealth when he lists Sany's assets on the Hong Kong exchange.
