When we first started out on our illustrious celebrity gossip-writing career, we expected to chart the occasional break-up, pregnancy rumour or wardrobe malfunction. But the past few months have seen our stories peppered with hospital dashes, knifepoint raids and prison sentences. Heavens to Betsy!

So we can't help wondering whether someone's put a curse on our favourite celebrities - and it seems several of the stars themselves are thinking the same thing. Check out the litany of woes suffered by seven big names since the year began - and decide for yourselves...

By Jane Murphy
Pictures: Big Pictures, Wenn, PA, Rex Features