Coldplay, Tequila & Fireworks Jen's Wild, Wild 5oth

Her friends are going all out to surprise her

After a tumultuous year that saw the devastating end of her second marriage to Justin Theroux, Jennifer Aniston would have been excused for approaching her 50th birthday next week with feelings of trepidation.

But the much-loved star – who found fame on hit sitcom Friends back in the ’90s – is determined to celebrate the February 11 milestone in style. And while she might be unlucky-in-love, she’s certainly lucked in on the friend front, with her best pal, talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres, planning the party of a lifetime.

A source reveals, “Ellen joked on her show about throwing Jen a party, but she was absolutely serious. She and her wife Portia de Rossi have invited all Jen’s loved ones to a huge celebration at their Beverly Hills mansion, and they’re going all-out to make it the most exquisite and lavish bash.

“After such a tough year, they’re determined that she has the best night ever and will be surrounded by people who adore her.”

The source says Ellen, 61, has used her A-list pulling power to secure Jennifer’s favourite bands to play, including The Crash Kings and Coldplay, while LA’s best cocktail mixologists have been drafted in to create a tequila bar. Dinner will be a six-course affair, followed by fireworks.