Zlatan Ibrahimovic Surprises Rescued Thai Soccer Players ... 'Best Team In The World'

Published | Updated

Wanna know what Ellen DeGeneres did when she learned the rescued Thai soccer players were HUGE fans of Zlatan Ibrahimovic???

SHE BROUGHT HIM OUT ON STAGE TO MEET THEM!!!

The famous soccer team -- aka The Wild Boars -- has been in LA for the past week ... taking on all the sights and sounds of Hollywood ... and stopped by 'Ellen' for a sit-down interview (airs Monday).

That's when Ellen decided to give them a surprise ... their favorite soccer player in the flesh -- and dude couldn't have been nicer.

"I thought I was brave, but these kids, this team is more braver than me," Zlatan said.

The praise from the soccer legend didn't stop there ... "They show their collective teamwork and had patience, faith and believe in other hands also, so this is probably the best team in the world."

Zlatan also brought out gifts for the boys ... t-shirts, balls, jerseys AND L.A. Galaxy tickets ... and said, "We can make exchange, you get my shirt I get your shirt."

How cool is that?!?!

La La Anthony Still 'Figuring Out' Things w/ Melo ... After '17 Separation

Published | Updated

Don't stick a fork in La La and Carmelo Anthony just yet ... 'cause the actress says the couple is trying to figure things out after separating in 2017.

We broke the story ... La La and the NBA superstar started living separately after going through a rough patch last year -- but neither side ever filed divorce papers.

When asked about their status on Saturday, La La revealed it's not totally over for the couple of 15 years ... and their focus is on their 11-year-old son.

“We’re good. I mean ... we’ve been together for a really long time, so we’re figuring out how to make it work for what is best for Kiyan and what is best for us," she told People.

The two have hung out in public several times over the past year -- most recently teaming up to support the family of a 15-year-old boy who was murdered in New York.

There are also reports the couple was packin' on some heavy PDA at an event over the weekend ... so that's a good sign for their marriage.

Prince Harry & Meghan One in the Oven! Odds Say Victoria for Name

Published | Updated

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ain't much for wasting time -- they're already expecting their first royal baby.

Kensington Palace announced Monday morning Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, is pregnant and said she's due sometime next spring ... which would be right around Mom and Dad's one-year anniversary.

As for baby names, according to Ladbrokes, the favorites are as follows ...

-Victoria 8/1

-Albert/Arthur/Philip 10/1

-Alice 12/1

Chances of the baby getting Meghan's mom's name, Doria, are 50/1 and Samantha (Meghan's sister) are 100/1.

Meghan and Harry tied the knot in May of this year. We know, everyone's doing some quick math (don't forget to carry the one) ... and, no ... it was NOT a shotgun wedding.

They just had a very busy first couple of months of marriage ... in bed.

For what it's worth, when their child arrives, he or she could be a future king or queen -- although it's really unlikely. Meghan and Harry's kid will be 7th in line to the U.K. throne.

Congrats!

'BiP' Star Jenna Cooper 'Cheating' Texts Were Fabricated

Published | Updated

"Bachelor in Paradise" star Jenna Cooper is not a lying cheater out for fame ... this according to a forensic report.

Jenna had the forensic company digitally scrub her iPhone, iPad and iCloud backup for alleged text messages she sent saying she only got engaged to fellow 'BiP' contestant Jordan Kimball on the show to build Hollywood connections. The alleged texts -- sent to another man -- also said Jordan didn't mean anything to her and she had an off-camera boyfriend.

Screenshots of the texts first surfaced in August after the 'BiP' finale ... but Jenna's been on the warpath to clear her name, even going so far as to hire the forensic company.

Jenna's rep, Steve Honig, tells TMZ ... "A comprehensive forensic examination of Jenna’s devices by an independent third-party expert has definitively confirmed none of the text messages in question came from Jenna's phone."

Jenna's been trying to get Jordan to admit the texts are fake and accused him of dramatically changing his demeanor toward her when the cameras stopped rolling. She claims Jordan "let it be known there was only room for one celebrity in the relationship."

Kanye West Back on Twitter ... Preaching About 'Mind Control'

Published | Updated

Kanye West took a break from family time in Africa to get in touch with the world via social media once again, and his purpose was to speak out against mind control ... and oddly, social media.

Ye returned to Twitter Saturday afternoon after going dark last week, and live streamed himself from Africa, talking to the camera while constantly rubbing his forehead ... appearing to be deep in thought and focused on his words.

But ... as he even admits ... he also seems sleep deprived.

Kanye captioned his vid "Mind control," and started off by railing at social media and discussing how he's hurt by people trying to tell him what to do. He says it feels like they are trying to touch his brain ... and he hates it.

He adds to his social media bashing by saying it told us all Hillary Clinton was going to win the presidency, and claims social media falsely wants you to believe people don't like him when in fact ... "Everybody loves Ye!!"

There's more -- a lot more -- including Kanye declaring "I am the best living recording artist," boasting about his IQ and assuring us all he's not crazy ... he just needs some sleep.

Get some sleep, Kanye.

Prince Estate Hey Trump, Stop Playing 'Purple Rain' ... Or Else!!!

Published | Updated

Prince's estate is sick of President Trump playing The Purple One's music at his rallies and is demanding he stop STAT.

The late singer's half-brother, Omarr Baker, just said on behalf of the estate ... "The Prince Estate has never given permission to President Trump or the White House to use Prince's song and have requested that they cease all use immediately."

Trump played "Purple Rain" at his rally last week in South Haven, Mississippi. It's frequently played at his rallies ... and it's not the first time 45's been told to knock it off. Steven Tyler's lawyer fired off cease and desist letters after Trump played several of his songs, including "Livin' on the Edge."

The Rolling Stones also fired off a letter during the 2016 campaign after Trump used "Start Me Up" to get the crowd revved up.

We've reached out to the White House ... so far, no word back.

Kevin Love Shaves His Beard ... Nicked Myself Twice!!

Published | Updated

Who is this 6th grader and what has he done with Kevin Love?!

That clean-shaven dude you're lookin' at is actually the Cleveland Cavaliers superstar (seriously, we promise it's him) ... and he showed off a VERY youthful look on Friday.

Before you freak, it's only temporary -- Love says he was shooting a commercial with teammate Channing Frye and he had to lose his signature facial hair for the role.

Love has rocked some sort of facial hair throughout his NBA career ... and says it's been about 6 or 7 years since he's taken a razor to his face.

Naturally, the All-Star was a bit rusty -- he says he nicked his face TWICE shedding the scruff.

But don't worry, Cavs fans ... K. Love says he'll return his face to its natural furry state in a couple of weeks.

Charles Barkley Free Ballin' ... Since 2008

Published | Updated

EWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!!!

Here's Charles Barkley admitting he hasn't worn a pair of undies since 2008 ... AND NOT REGRETTING IT AT ALL!!!

"I've been 10 years without underwear," Chuck shamelessly said to Jimmy Fallon on Thursday's episode of the 'Tonight Show.'

"And, I feel good about it, Jimmy," he exclaimed!

The question was raised by Barkley's pal and "Inside the NBA" cohost Shaquille O'Neal -- who wanted to confirm a rumor he heard about Chuck's fashion choices below the waist.

The Round Mound of Rebound wasn't shy -- and explained:

"I thought they were unnecessary for space in the house. So, I gathered all my drawers together and had a big ole bonfire."

FYI ... Chuck's packin' a 6-foot-6, 252-pound (ish) frame into those underwear-less pants ... AND the dude lives in freakin' ARIZONA!!!!

EWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!

Mr. Rogers Movie Set Emmy Winner Dies After Fall From Balcony

Published | Updated

A crew member on the set of Tom Hanks' upcoming Mr. Rogers movie died after suffering a heart attack and falling off a balcony.

James Emswiller, who won an Emmy in 2015, was taking a smoke break when the coronary struck as he stood on the second-story balcony.

Hanks was on set Thursday night in Lebanon, PA when Emswiller fell ... during the filming of "You Are My Friend," the Fred Rogers biopic.

James was alone on the deck when other crew members heard what sounded like someone falling from the balcony.

After James hit the ground, a nurse on set tried assisting ... apparently to no avail. By the time EMTs arrived, Emswiller was in full cardiac arrest.

James was taken to UPMC Mercy Hospital and was pronounced dead 3 hours later.

Emswiller won an Emmy for Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Limited Series for HBO production of "Bessie."

James was 61.

RIP

Khabib Breaks Bread with Chechen Dictator ... At Russian Fight Club

Published | Updated

Khabib Nurmagomedov rubbed elbows with another powerful political figure Thursday night -- Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov ... a man who's been accused of some pretty horrible stuff.

The two hung out at a Russian MMA gym -- described as a fight club -- where they posed for pics, ate some food and celebrated Khabib's victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 229.

Khabib commented about the meeting saying, "Thank you very much to Ramzan and all brotherly Chechnya."

"The way I am grateful to your support in words not to describe and praise to god who made us all brothers through our religion. And thank you very much for such a generous gift and most importantly respect shown to me."

Kadyrov is a HUGE fan of combat sports -- and recently kicked it with Floyd Mayweather.

This issue surrounding Kadyrov ... dude has a very controversial past -- littered with accusations of human rights violations from kidnapping to torture and murder. He's denied all wrongdoing.

But, what's undeniable ... Kadyrov says he doesn't want gay people in his country and has said on the record he'd ship them all to Canada if he could.

The U.S. State Dept. issued a warning in April 2017 saying it was "increasingly concerned" about the anti-LGBT movement in Chechnya -- after "numerous credible reports" indicating gay people were being detained, tortured and even killed based on their sexual orientation.

Kadyrov's father was appointed to lead Chechnya in 2000 by Vladimir Putin. And, when his dad died, Putin tapped Ramzan to take his place in 2007.

Of course, Khabib just met with Putin earlier this week.

Usain Bolt Scores 2 Goals in Pro Soccer Game ... Busts Out 'Shoot' Dance!

Published | Updated

Usain Bolt was Usain GOOOOOAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLTT in his Australian pro soccer game on Friday ... hittin' the back of the net TWICE ... and celebrating with the "shoot" dance!!

The 8-time Olympic gold medalist suited up for the Central Coast Mariners -- wearing a #95 jersey -- and he BALLED OUT in his second appearance for the club ... scoring 2 goals.

Of course, Bolt christened the goals with his signature "lightning bolt" pose for the first goal he scored, an hour into the match ... then followed up with the BlocBoy JB dance for his 2nd goal in the 69th minute.

BTW -- even though he's on a trial with the Mariners, Bolt is serious about this whole soccer thing ... and he's even told TMZ Sports he'd be down to join the MLS -- if they pay up.

The challenge for Bolt, he's gotta convince the old school soccer dudes he's for real -- because when we spoke with Alexi Lalas about Usain joining the MLS, he basically told us there's no shot.

But, if Bolt continues to torch defenses ... ya gotta think it's a matter of time before he gets a contract offer.

041618_alexi_lalas_kal
NOT SO FAST, HOT SHOT

Cardi B to Offset Let's End my 26th BDay with a Bang ... Literally, Okurrrr!!!

Published | Updated
101118_cardi_birthday_kal
IT'S MY CARDI BIRTHDAY!

Cardi B is a woman who knows EXACTLY what she wants ... and if she gets it, her new Lamborghini ain't the only thing she's gonna be riding for her birthday.

The "I Like It" rapper posted this hilarious video Thursday on Instagram to celebrate her 26th birthday. Cardi thanked fans for the good wishes, which she was in need after saying she ate some bad fish that, in her words, left her swollen and looking like Mrs. Puff from Spongebob SquarePants. #LMFAO

As we reported ... Offset gifted her a brand new Lamborghini, but there's one wish that's still unfulfilled.

Enter Offset.

Jim Brown Defends White House Visit With Kanye ... 'Trump Treated Us Beautifully'

Published | Updated

Jim Brown has ZERO regrets about the Oval Office meeting today with Donald Trump and Kanye West ... saying it was an incredible opportunity and he's thankful to 45.

West has made headlines today about his behavior during the sit-down ... which included a couple classic Kanye rants, a heap of Trump praising and even a hug between the two men.

Brown was there too -- mostly silent -- making some wonder if he regretted making the trip. But, when the NFL great left the White House he told throngs of media that couldn't be further from the truth.

"We had the opportunity to meet with the President of the United States which everybody doesn't have that privilege. With me, at 82 years old, the only thing I could talk about was how to help other people. So, it was very positive."

Brown went on behalf of his Amer-I-Can foundation which helps inner-city youth develop life skills -- and he told everyone Trump was very good to the whole delegation.

"This is the President of the United States. He allowed me to be invited to his territory, he treated us beautifully, and he shared some thoughts, and he will be open to talking when I get back to him. That's the best he could do for me."

Kanye at the White House Hello, I'm Here To Make America Great Again

Published | Updated

10:00 AM PT -- Kanye told Trump why he wants the 13th Amendment abolished. He says, among other things, 13 is an unlucky number. Trump seems amused at the end of the video.

9:55 AM PT -- Kanye told Trump this in the Oval ... "My dad and mom separated so there was not a lot of male energy in my home and also I'm married to a family where, you know, there's not a lot of male energy. It's beautiful, though."

Kanye Compares MAGA Hat to Superman's Cape
IT'S MY CAPE

Kanye told Trump he feels like Superman when he puts on his MAGA hat.

Check out Kanye's full rant.

Kanye West is in the house ... he just arrived at the White House for his meet and eat with President Trump.

Ye rolled up for the lunch meeting in a black SUV and, although we couldn't see him through the tinted windows, some of his team members got out at the security gate bearing gifts -- a few boxes of Yeezy swag.

Kanye and 45 are talking shop on a list of pressing issues. Officially, their agenda will include prison reform, American manufacturing, creating jobs and preventing gang violence in Ye's hometown of Chicago. Sources close to Kanye tell us he'll also discuss having people formerly incarcerated work in his factories and urge other big companies to follow suit.

However, based on President Trump's own words Thursday morning, we know what he's really interested in is his garnering support from African-American voters ahead of the midterm elections.

Adding to the spectacle ... Trump will reportedly invite reporters in for at least a portion of the lunch. Can you say PHOTO OP?

It's likely Kanye and Trump will also bring up Colin Kaepernick. When Ye was here at TMZ last week, he said he'd reached out to Kaep to try and get him to D.C. for a peace summit with POTUS.

Trump's having a bunch of his celeb pals over today -- Kid Rock and John Rich of Big & Rich were also there to witness him signing the Music Modernization Act into law.

However, the luncheon will only be attended by Kanye, NFL legend Jim Brown, Ivanka and Jared Kushner. On the menu -- Caprese salad and roasted chicken with potatoes and asparagus.

Delish ... what could go wrong?

Originally published 9:31 AM PT

Fyre Festival Organizer Gets 6 Years in Prison

Published | Updated

The fire is officially snuffed out on Billy McFarland's freedom -- the guy behind that disastrous Fyre Festival is going to federal prison for a long time.

Thursday morning in NYC, a federal judge sentenced McFarland to 6 years in prison. McFarland, who organized the infamous 2017 music festival in the Bahamas, pled guilty to 2 counts of wire fraud, based on the funds he received from investors in the doomed concert. Prosecutors said he raised more than $1 million.

042817_fyre_kal
MAKES COACHELLA LOOK LIKE THE FOUR SEASONS

Despite all that money, you'll remember Fyre Festival was an epic fail ... would-be concertgoers plunked down between $1,200 and $100,000 only to be forced to sleep in tents, or out on the beach, instead of the luxury accommodations Billy advertised. Insult to injury -- the food really sucked too.

In addition to his prison sentence, Billy previously agreed to forfeit more than $26 million in connection with the fraud. Once he's out of prison, he'll have 3 years of supervised release.

There's also a $100 million class action lawsuit against Billy and Ja Rule ... claiming they warned celebs not to attend -- knowing it would be a total disaster -- but hung all the regular folk out to dry.

We're guessing inmates won't count on Billy to organize a damn thing in prison.

President Trump Signs New Music Law ... Kanye Just Misses It

Published | Updated

President Trump was surrounded by a ton of music greats at the White House Thursday morning, as he signed a new law that will benefit many of them ... but Kanye West was not in on the fun.

POTUS signed the Music Modernization Act with John Rich, Kid Rock and several other artists standing by to make speeches about the new law, and also to witness the actual signing.

101118_john_rich_sam_moor_kal
SMILES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE AISLE

It all went down moments before Kanye's luncheon with 45 was scheduled to begin, so everyone expected Ye to join the other artists ... but he got to the White House juuuust a bit late.

As we told you ... Kanye is there now -- he didn't come empty-handed -- and the lunch meeting with the Prez, Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner and Jim Brown is set to begin.

Stand by for fireworks ... and photo ops.