ROBERT KRAFT’s owner’s box at Gillette Stadium is becoming New England’s “most exclusive club,” according to ESPN’s Chris Connelly. It may not have a “velvet rope, but on game day, it’s a by-invitation-only gathering of the A-list in movies, media (and) music.” Through the years, the Patriots owner has “welcomed everyone from DAN AYKROYD to DAVID BECKHAM, HENRY KISSINGER to TIGER WOODS.” Singer STEVEN TYLER, who often appears in the box, said, “I’ve been there, and there’s been everybody from DAN BROWN to DONALD TRUMP to PAMELA ANDERSON to JOHNNY DEPP. These are the kind of people you meet in there.” Connelly noted the food also is top of the line. Tyler said, “He’ll have everything from cotton candy to sauerbraten brought in from Germany.” Actor MARK WAHLBERG: “You would think you’re in France with the wine. … Everything’s good. Bob just does everything top notch.” Trump: “It’s always an honor to be invited by Bob to watch the game. He’s a great owner. … Being in the owner’s box with Bob is really a special experience.” Following the taped report, ESPN’s Keyshawn Johnson talked about being in the suite last year for a game, which he said delivered an “awkward” moment. Johnson: “Last year, they played the San Francisco 49ers. In the third quarter, it was 31-3. I have eaten all this man's food. Drank up his wine. 31-3? Went to the closet to get my coat. … How can I get out of here without him noticing?” ESPN’s Chris Berman noted he was in the box a few years ago during a Thursday night game and said, “The sushi up there is pretty good” (“Sunday NFL Countdown,” ESPN, 10/13).
FRIENDS IN HIGH PLACES: In N.Y., Bob Raissman writes ESPN's "gratuitous feature" on Kraft's box shows the net "knows how to cozy up to an owner." Raissman: "Needless to say Steve Fainaru and Mark Fainaru-Wada, authors of 'League of Denial,' were not seen rubbing elbows ... with the likes of Steven Tyler, OZZY OSBOURNE and Pamela Anderson" (N.Y. DAILY NEWS, 10/14).
