The Kentucky Derby was heavy on Hollywood.

        Long before the derby horses padded from the paddock, the rich and famous paraded before the news media, chatting up their latest films or record deals.

PHOTO GALLERY

Anne Heche with Cincinnati native Coley Laffoon

        Hollywood's hottest derby-goers included Anne Heche, Courtney Cox Arquette and David Arquette, Melissa Joan Hart, Bo Derek and football greats Peyton Manning and Warren Moon.

        Country music legend Crystal Gayle discussed a record she wants to do with her sister. The Kentucky native said she was embarrassed that 2001 was her first Derby. Her famous long hair flowing down her back, she opted to go hatless, she said, because she has too much hair.

        Warren Moon, retired quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, said it was his first time at the big race.

        “It's something I've always wanted to do,” he said. “But I've always had a mini-camp that weekend.”

        He likes basketball coach Rick Pitino, so his pick for the big race was the new University of Louisville coach's horse, A.P. Valentine.

        Anne Heche, who wore tinted glasses and a black and white striped dress, made her way to the betting window with Cincinnati native Coley Laffoon. Mr. Laffoon was the cameraman who allegedly stole Ms. Heche away from Ellen DeGeneres during the comedienne's tour last summer.

        Of the derby, Ms. Heche said, “It's awesome. It's just the most incredible thing.”

        As far as the big race goes, the starlet was undecided late in the afternoon. “We don't know yet. We just got here.”

        Singer Meat Loaf, on the other hand, had his favorite pony picked before he set foot on Churchill Downs, though he thought his invitation was to a dinner party of about 40.

        “I think I'm going to bet on Millennium Wind,” he said. “The guy riding next to me on the plane was the jockey.” Laffit Pincay Jr. rode the Kentucky-bred horse.

        The actor who plays Uncle Junior on the HBO hit series The Sopranos swore he doesn't have a fix in on the races.

        “I've been here since Wednesday,” said Dominic Chianese.

        “The first day I won two out of three races, and yesterday I lost five of six, basically giving back all of my winnings. But I've been showered with love since I've been here. I'll definitely be back next year.”

        The Associated Press contributed.
       

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