NCAA Basketball Tournament New Women's Weight Room Revealed ... Still Pretty Crappy

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The NCAA delivered on filling in the women's weight room ahead of the start of the big tournament in San Antonio -- but even this isn't quite enough by comparison to the men.

The "upgraded" weight room was revealed Saturday on ESPN's College GameDay show, where correspondent Holly Rowe showed off the new digs. Yes, there are more weights and equipment scattered about ... but it still feels pretty hollow compared to Indianapolis.

Here's another weird thing ... Rowe goes out of her way to point out that the area that Ducks forward Sedona Prince filmed in her now-viral video isn't technically meant to house weights or be a training room, per se -- but rather, a place for players to confer and "loosen up."

Rowe says she'd been told the carpeted space Prince panned across is actually the compliment area to the practice court -- and yet, even that has been littered with more dumbbells, racks and row machines ... albeit sparingly. Rowe then showed off what she described as the actual weight room -- implying that Prince mighta been misinformed.

She says the space Prince was in was always meant to be a complement space next to the court, despite the fact there was a meager set of dumbbells in the middle of the floor to begin with. Weird way to spin it.

The "real" weigh room, as it's now being described, looks super slapped together and about as makeshift as can be -- and doesn't seem much different than where Prince filmed. All these rooms look like conference rooms, so who the hell knows. That said, there is a bit more equipment here ... but again, it's not nearly as robust as the men's facility at all.

It's interesting ... Rowe seems to be saying the actual weight room she's showing off was there all along, but she does say the NCAA upgraded that space too. So the question then becomes ... what's the truth??? In our eyes, it seems the weight room(s) -- whether it was the one Prince thought she was in or the one Rowe's showing now -- both sucked.

The NCAA admitted as much, saying they did, indeed, fall short in providing equitable equipment/space to the men's and women's teams ... and that they'd try to fix it ASAP.

This appears to be a quick Band-Aid fix -- unclear if they plan to bring in even more stuff as the tournament kicks off Sunday. Either way ... this was a complete blunder on the org's part.

Better luck next year ...

Stanley the Giraffe Seized as Evidence at Malibu Wine ... Owners Face Charges

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Stanley the Giraffe -- the crown jewel of Malibu Wine Safaris -- now sits in his pen as Exhibit A ... because authorities claim his owners are breaking the law by having him there.

ABC7 reports the CEO of MWS, Dakota Semler, and her pops, Ron, have been charged in connection to an investigation that allegedly revealed Stanley -- and perhaps other wild animals roaming around -- have been flying under the radar without the necessary paperwork to warrant their stay. The place is packed with animals you might see at a zoo.

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They were reportedly informed by the Dept. of Fish and Wildlife that the Semlers never got the necessary licenses to house such exotic creatures -- like giraffes, zebras, etc. -- and as such, they've been accused of falsifying records to obtain permits to that effect.

As a result, Dakota -- who owns/runs the place -- has reportedly been charged with maintaining an animal facility or a wild animal without a license. Her dad -- who apparently owns Stanley himself -- has reportedly been charged with providing false info on his application for Stanley's restricted species permit with the CDFW. Both pled not guilty.

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As for Stanley, Fish and Wildlife say he was "seized in place" -- meaning they're not taking him to any station for booking or processing ... ya know, 'cause he's like 18 feet tall. And as to the question of how the hell this didn't come to law enforcement's attention earlier -- they're claiming they relied on the word of the Semlers when they filled out their docs.

Here's the kicker ... ABC7 suggests that Malibu Wine Safaris might've been newly put under a microscope because of pissed-off would-be customers -- several of whom apparently complained about not getting refunded during the pandemic ... or not refunded fast enough.

So, because they upset their loyal base -- ABC7 says it started digging in, which might've triggered the investigation and subsequent charges. Oh, the irony ...

As you may or may not know ... Stanley is a fan fave at the sprawling attraction at Saddlerock Ranch -- tons of celebs have stopped by over the years and posed for selfies with Stan, who's always happy to nibble on someone's hair ... preferably some celery or lettuce.

Of course, he also cameo'd in 'The Hangover Part III' ... riding passenger with Alan.

Deshaun Watson Claims He Sought Masseuses on IG After COVID Blocked His Usual Therapist

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Deshaun Watson insists the only reason he contacted massage therapists over social media is because his usual masseuse couldn't work on him due to the COVID pandemic.

Multiple sources connected to Watson tell us ... the NFL superstar is still adamant he did NOT sexually assault any of the women making claims against him.

He's obviously been following the story ... but strongly disputes the claims made by attorney Tony Buzbee, who claims to be talking with 22 women who say they were violated by Watson.

Most of the women who have filed lawsuits claim Watson first contacted them on Instagram to set up a massage -- which they found surprising considering Watson is a pro athlete who should have tons of resources at his disposal to find established therapists.

But, our sources tell us ... Watson didn't just find these women out of the blue -- insisting when his usual therapist was stopped by the COVID pandemic, he reached out to various friends, teammates and associates to get recommendations.

We're told once Watson made contact ... he put an emphasis on privacy and spelled out the areas he wanted the massage to make sure the masseuse was comfortable and to ensure things stayed professional.

Our sources tell us ... Watson insists he never crossed the line with any of the women and still strongly believes they're being led by a money-hungry attorney who's looking for a payout.

There's more ... Deshaun -- who signed a 4-year, $156 million contract extension in 2020 -- obviously has the means to pay the women off if he wanted to, but he doesn't want to give them a cent because he's adamant he didn't do anything wrong.

Of course, Buzbee said during a news conference on Friday that he has personally vetted all of the accusers he represents ... and insists he's moving forward with their cases to hold Watson accountable, not to squeeze him for money.

Bottom line ... both sides are dug in and are looking forward to their day in court.

Chris Harrison Lawyers Up Over 'Bachelor' Thorny Conflict

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Chris Harrison knows the temperature in the room, because he's now lawyered up in the wake of his uncertain future as host of "The Bachelor."

Harrison hired celeb attorney Bryan Freedman, who knows a thing or 2 about celebs who got their walking papers.  He repped Gabrielle Union in her blowup with "America's Got Talent." As we reported, Union complained of racism and a hostile work environment after she was fired as a judge. The case settled.

As for Harrison, he stepped away from his longtime hosting duties last month after defending Rachael Kirkonnell in an interview with Rachel Lindsay.

Producers haven't said what they plan to do with Chris, although they've hired Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe as co-hosts of the upcoming season of "The Bachelorette."

Hiring a lawyer is a sign Chris is clearly worried he might get permanently sacked from the show.  It sends a signal to producers he's not going down without a fight, although again ... so far no decision's been made as much as we can tell.  Producers have been mum on Harrison's future.

Kourtney and Travis Bite Me, Whip Me, F*** Me!!! AKA Date Night in the 'Bu

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Kourtney Kardashian has some very specific, and graphic, sexual demands for her BF Travis Barker -- or she's a huge fan of 80s punk rock. Or both. 🤷🏽‍♂️

Travis and Kourtney hit up Nobu in Malibu at around 10 PM Friday ... rolling up in Travis's Rolls, and Kourt's fashion choice might say a lot about how she rolls, so to speak.

Yeah, take a closer look at her graphic (double entendre intended) tee -- it says "Beat me, bite me, suck me, f**k me" ... and there are a couple more lines we can't even write out.

We know what you're thinking ... So, that's what she's into!

Not exactly. Those are actually pretty famous (in punk rock circles) lyrics from a song called "Love Me" by The Queers -- and they make for eye-catching fashion too.

Travis and Kourtney have been dating for at least several months that we know of, although Kourtney confirmed it just last month when she posted a pic of their interlocking hands. Based on the shirt she picked for date night, we'd say they're verrry comfortable.

ICYMI ... they've been super close for years -- 15 to be exact. They met back in the day, when Travis was dating Paris Hilton. Memba that?

Kourtney and Travis have spent lots of time together, as have their kids.  She was a key player when Travis bought a house near hers in Calabasas country and helped him renovate it. It's a case of friendship simmering for a long time to a romantic boil.

One thing we know for sure -- they dig sushi. Nobu aside, they were also spotted at Matsuhisa in Bev Hills, where the cost of a meal requires extreme wealth.

Nicki Minaj Dad's Wife Files $150 Million Lawsuit In Alleged Hit-and-Run Death

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UPDATE

8:49 AM PT -- Polevich's attorney, Marc Craig Gann, tells TMZ...

UPDATE

"My client empathizes with the family. The question of whether there was negligence and degrees of negligence will be determined by the court. The $150 million amount seems to be over the top."

The wife of Nicki Minaj's dad has filed a $150 million lawsuit over his death.

The lawsuit, filed by civil rights lawyer Ben Crump, alleges Charles Polevich drove recklessly back in February and was inattentive when he fatally struck Robert Maraj, who was walking on a street in Long Island.  Police say after striking the 64-year-old, Polevich walked over to him, asked if he was okay and then fled the scene ... later concealing his Volvo in a garage at his residence.

Crump tweeted this after filing the lawsuit ... "Charles Polevich was not only irresponsible & negligent in hitting Maraj, but was more concerned about running away and hiding than seeking help." He went on ... "Polevich's behavior was criminal, cowardly, and immoral. We will hold him responsible for his reckless actions that led to Rober Maraj's death!"

Polevich was charged with 2 felonies -- leaving the scene of an accident that led to death and tampering with or suppressing physical evidence.

Polevich pled not guilty and is free on a $250,000 bond.

Originally Published -- 6:32 AM PT

Stars and Scars You Be the Judge

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The rancor between Harry/Meghan and the Royals ain't going away anytime soon, and what really happened with Tiger's car crash? So we gotta ask ...

Bill Maher You Want Warnings on Classic Flicks??? Rosemary Denied Planned Parenthood Option

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Now that old movies have warnings at the beginning so viewers can brace themselves for what people dared to do and say back in the day, Bill Maher decided to do some of his own handiwork with warnings ... and it's f***ing hilarious!!!

Maher mused on 'Real Time' Friday night how Turner Classic Movies have such warnings regarding racism, sexism, etc, so he decided to lend a helping hand.

"Sleeping Beauty" -- WARNING: "A prince kisses an unconscious woman without consent."

"The Wizard of Oz" -- WARNING: "A powerful woman of color is murdered by a rural white girl."

"Rosemary's Baby" -- WARNING: "Fails to present Planned Parenthood as a viable option."

And, you gotta see the "Braveheart" warning.

'Real Time' is the best political show on TV, and Friday night was maybe his best show in a long time.

BTW ... some of the films with new Turner warnings -- "Breakfast at Tiffany's," "Psycho," "Gone with the Wind," "My Fair Lady," "Stagecoach," "The Jazz Singer" and "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers." Pretty much every movie that's at least 5 years old will probably end up with warning. And, the movies today will have warnings in 5 years.

Prince Harry Helps Kids Who Lost Parents to COVID ... I Know What It's Like

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Prince Harry has words for kids who lost a parent during the coronavirus pandemic, and he knows from where he speaks ... and it's emotional.

Harry penned the forward to a book -- "Hospital by the Hill" -- aimed at grieving children, and his words of empathy ring loud. As you know, Harry's mom, Princess Diana, was killed in 1997 when he was 12 years old. His mission -- showing the kids they're not alone in their struggle.

Harry wrote ... "When I was a young boy I lost my mum. At the time I didn't want to believe it or accept it, and it left a huge hole inside of me. I know how you feel, and I want to assure you that over time that hole will be filled with so much love and support. We all cope with loss in a different way, but when a parent goes to heaven, I was told their spirit, their love and the memories of them do not. They are always with you and you can hold onto them forever. I find this to be true."

He adds, "Now, I never met them, but I know this person was special to you, and they were someone incredibly kind, caring and loving because of where they chose to work. Helping others is one of the most important jobs anyone can ever do.

He goes on ... "You may feel alone, you may feel sad, you may feel angry, you may feel bad. This feeling will pass. And I will make a promise to you – you will feel better and stronger once you are ready to talk about how it makes you feel."

The book is being distributed free of charge to kids in the U.K. who have lost loved ones during the pandemic.

What's The Big Frigin' Difference?

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Don't let these two almost identical images of Natasha Lyonne have you starting to feel confused ... keep your focus and see if you can pick out the sneaky switches that have been made to this tricky pic!

The actress was recently seen in New York City on the set of her Netflix show "Russian Doll" ... and we have made a few changes to the original picture! Take a good look around both photos and see if you can figure out the differences between the two super similar snaps!

**HINT -- There are THREE differences in the above photographs!**

Joe Exotic My Life's Been Hell Since 'Tiger King' Premiere

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Joe Exotic says his life's been a living hell ever since Netflix unleashed him on the world ... and he's going scorched earth on Donald Trump, Carole Baskin, PETA, the feds and more!!!

Joe, through his attorney John M. Phillips of the Phillips & Hunt firm, tells TMZ ... "It has been a year of hell" since March 20, 2020, when Netflix premiered 'Tiger King' ... and he's not talking about the pandemic.

Exotic gripes the people for whom he opened his zoo and home -- "when their own families wouldn't help them" -- have turned their backs on him as he rots in prison. Joe doesn't name names, but says some of his ex-employees are out to "just collect money and talk s*** to get on TV" ... and he's pissed they're allegedly using his name "to profit off the hell I am living."

Joe's still claiming his innocence too ... he grouses the prosecutors and witnesses who helped put him behind bars lied under oath. Exotic's confident "the truth will come out ... come hell or high water, they will all answer to perjury at some point."

Donald Trump 4/8/20
EXOTIC PARDON

Trump and Don Jr. are also contributing to Joe's hell, and it sounds like he's still bitter over his failed attempt at a presidential pardon. Exotic says the Trumps "used me for advertisement and then left me here."

As we first told you, Joe's not giving up hope on a pardon from POTUS, and now he's lobbying the Biden Administration.

Joe tells us he has "more faith in President Biden and VP Harris to do the right thing, not just for me, but for the thousands serving long sentences for non-violent crimes such as conspiracy."

The way Joe sees it ... "I'm a political prisoner in America for an animal rights agenda" and he's lashing out at PETA for allegedly enforcing the Endangered Species Act on Jeff Lowe and his former zoo.

Bottom line for Joe ... everything traces back to "Carole Baskin getting my zoo and closing me down."

'Bling Empire' Star Kane Lim Asians Deserve Respect, Not Hate ... We're a Big Part of America

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THAT'S NOT A "BAD DAY"

"Bling Empire" star Kane Lim says Asian-Americans deserve respect, not hate and racism, because they've played key roles in making our nation what it is today.

We got Kane at the Waldorf Astoria in Bev Hills and asked him about the mass shooting in Atlanta, which killed 6 Asian women.

Kane isn't buying the shooter's version of the attack -- that he wasn't motivated by race, but by sex addiction. He calls that a big load of BS, and says it's on law enforcement to investigate and find the truth ... rather than accepting Robert Long's word.

The way Kane sees it, Asian-American people are pillars of our society and they deserve respect from everyone, including the police ... telling us why the Georgia sheriff's flip remark about the shooter saying he was having a "bad day" doesn't sit well with him.

Kane, who hails from Singapore, says he never encountered racism on this scale until he moved to the U.S. and he shares his own experience with racist attacks.

Bright Babes In Neon Swimsuits The Glowing Trend!

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Talk about making a statement ... These bold babes have shown up in their bright bikinis and are ready to make a splash by adding some eye-popping colors to their swimsuit styles!

Celebs like Lais Ribeiro, Chantel Jeffries, Corinne Olympios and a bunch more hotties have been heating things up with their sexy swimsuits in crazy colors ... And we're putting their hyper-color hot shots on display just for you!

Get a good look at the eye-catching images these ladies have been sharing by grabbing yourself a pair of sunglasses and scrolling through these pics of bright babes in neon swimsuits.

Pete Davidson Gets Protection From Fake Wife ... She's Charged with Felonies

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Pete Davidson just got court-ordered protection from the woman who falsely claimed they were married ... because she’s now been charged for allegedly showing up inside his NYC home.

According to new legal docs obtained by TMZ ... Pete was granted an order of protection against Michelle Mootreddy, who cops arrested Thursday at Pete's Staten Island crib. She's now been ordered to stay away from Pete and 3 other people who live in the home -- and she's barred from contacting them in any way and from showing up at the home or their jobs.

TMZ broke the story ... Mootreddy was nabbed by cops in Pete's house, with police saying she slipped inside through an open side door and took a seat at his kitchen table.

Mootreddy was arraigned Friday and is charged with burglary in the second and third degree, both felonies, as well as 2 misdemeanor counts of stalking, 2 misdemeanor counts of criminal trespass and harassment.

Remember, law enforcement says Mootreddy is the same person who blasted out a press release Tuesday falsely stating the 'SNL' star was launching a production company with her after they'd gotten married.

None of the above is true. Pete's reps told us he doesn't even know the woman.

Comedian Gary Owen Wife Files For Divorce

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Gary Owen's wife is waving the white flag on their marriage after nearly two decades together ... because we've learned she just filed for divorce.

The comedian's wife, Kenya Duke, filed divorce docs Friday in Los Angeles County Superior Court ... according to online records.

Gary and Kenya tied the knot way back in 2003 and they have two sons and a daughter together. It looks like the kids are all adults now ... the docs say they have no minor children.

Gary's famous for his stand-up comedy, and he's also appeared in several movies ... including "Daddy Day Care," "Think Like a Man" and "Ride Along," just to name a few.

It's unclear what led to the split.

CBS Studio Center Man Dies on Set ... Star Pays Tribute

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UPDATE

4:57 PM PT -- 'Conners' star Michael Fishman just posted to honor the crew member, Terrel Richmond, and shared today was the final day of shooting season 3. Fishman says they did it in "loving memory of a lovely man."

UPDATE

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A crew member died on the set of ABC's "The Conners" while the show was wrapping production ... TMZ has learned.

Law enforcement sources tell us the crew member was up on the catwalk on Stage 22 at the CBS Studio Center Thursday when he suffered some sort of medical emergency.

We're told studio medics were called, but were unable to resuscitate the man ... he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A source with knowledge tells us the show was on one of its final days of production at the CBS lot, our sources say the man was in his 50s or 60s.

"The Conners" started in 2018 with the remaining cast members from 'Roseanne' after the show was canceled following a racist tweet from the show's star, Roseanne Barr, about former Obama aide Valerie Jarrett, saying, "muslim brotherhood & planet of the apes."

A rep for Werner Entertainment tells us, "With heavy hearts we regret to confirm that a member of our technical crew suffered a fatal medical event today. He was a much loved member of The Conners and Roseanne families for over 25 years. As we remember our beloved colleague, we ask that you respect the privacy of his family and loved ones as they begin their grieving process."

RIP

Originally Published -- 5:54 AM PT