JACK HELPS OUT A FRIEND

JACK NICHOLSON conjured up some much-needed Christmas cheer for an old artist buddy he's been tight with since the Sixties. The guy's plagued by health and financial problems, yet refuses to accept charity even from pals, so Jack arranged for a private exhibition to market his paintings, then showed up after a screening of his new flick, "The Bucket List," with co-star MORGAN FREEMAN and director ROB REINER. The good-sized crowd was mingling and socializing, but not one painting had sold until Jack, sipping his wine, pointed at a large piece in the $5,000 range and roared: "I'll take that one!" Moments later, Morgan raised a finger. "And I'll take that one." Next up was - you guessed it! - Rob Reiner. Suddenly, wallets were leaping out of pockets, and Jack's impromptu art bazaar racked up a five-figure sale. (Oh, did I mention the guy was really grateful for his buddy-boy's help?)