Prince

Bangshowbiz:

Prince is set to have a secret hip replacement.

The Purple Rain singer, who released his first album in 1978 - is being forced to undergo the surgery at just 49-years-old after suffering excruciating pain as a result of years of blistering performances.

A source told Britain's News of the World newspaper: "For months, Prince, who always puts on the most energetic shows, has been complaining of pain every time he moves.

"He is totally crushed because he knows he will never be the same again."

The surgery will involve removing the ball and socket of Prince's damaged hip and replacing it with a titanium joint.

Private hospital

The diminutive star is allegedly booking into a private hospital and aides have reportedly cleared two months from his diary to allow him time to recover from the operation. Meanwhile, Prince put his health worries aside to host a special exclusive post-Oscar party on Sunday night.

A-list names reportedly invited to the extravagant bash at his new Los Angeles home included Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, Will Smith, Salma Hayek and Penelope Cruz.

Prince's post-Academy Awards bash didn't have to compete with the legendary Vanity Fair party to attract star guests.

The magazine decided to scrap its annual Oscar event in the wake of the crippling Hollywood writers' strike, which has now been resolved.