Guy Ritchie is a "fake and a phony", say friends of Madonna. The "RocknRolla" director - who raises three children with his estranged wife - reportedly used the 50-year-old singer for her money, insisting she buy a 1,200 hundred-acre estate and transport him around the world on private jets to conquer his fear of flying.

A source close to Madonna, who announced last week she and Guy are divorcing after nearly eight years of marriage, told gossip website PerezHilton.com: "Guy Ritchie is a fake and a phony. Guy is not a macho man. Not an English lad. Not a gentleman. Not spiritual. He's just a money-hungry gold digger that doesn't want to earn his way."

Gwyneth Paltrow has pledged to support Madonna following the singer's split from husband Guy Ritchie.

Madonna, 50, has been keeping in touch with Gwyneth through a series of long distance phone calls while she is on her 'Sticky and Sweet' world tour.

Guy Ritchie shunned a lavish spread for his 40th birthday celebrations in favor of pies.

The "RocknRolla" director was treated to the traditional British treats with a variety of luxury fillings, including smoked haddock and egg and chicken, leek and tarragon, from his friends.

Madonna has been forced to postpone her 50th birthday celebrations after twisting her ankle.

The "4 Minutes" singer - who reaches the milestone age on Saturday - was set to throw a lavish party at her country estate in Wiltshire, England, but has now postponed the festivities after suffering an injury during rehearsals for her forthcoming world tour.