American Idol judge Paula Abdul is taking the credit for inspiring modern pop stars including Rihanna and Beyonce.

The singer rose to fame in the 1980s, selling over 23 million records worldwide and topping the American charts six times before taking a musical hiatus in 2000.

She subsequently relaunched her career as a judge on the hit TV talent show and returned to the pop charts in 2008.

Movie star Shia LaBeouf hit the streets of Glendale, California on Thursday with a brown paper bag over his head.

The actor was keen to avoid the paparazzi and so tried to go incognito as he stepped out to visit a local liquor store near his home.

But the ruse simply drew more attention.

The cautious star also wrapped a plastic bag around his wrist - to stop a cast on his hand getting wet in a rain storm.