Austrian playboy is taking Carmen Electra to the ball

An Austrian playboy who keeps the Viennese in suspense each winter over his date to the lavish Opera Ball says he's taking former "Baywatch" star Carmen Electra this year.

Vienna businessman Richard Lugner confirmed Tuesday that Electra, who is married to former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Dave Navarro, will be his guest to the Feb. 23 ball, the most prestigious event on Vienna's society calendar.

Lugner's past dates have included another ex-"Baywatch" star, Pamela Anderson, actress Andie MacDowell, former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, singer-actress-model Grace Jones and the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson. Tickets to the annual ball cost about $265 and usually sell out months in advance. With extras such as gowns and tuxedos, flowers, limousines, champagne and lavish dinners, the night typically runs $1,225 or more.

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