Celebrity Death

Jim Seals -- one-half of the 70s hitmaking duo Seals and Crofts -- is dead after battling multiple health issues ... according to his family.

Jim's sister-in-law, Flo Seals, tells TMZ ... he died Monday evening at his home outside Nashville. She says Jim had several health issues, primarily with his kidneys and lungs, and had just gotten home from the hospital.

Flo says there was a nurse at the house, because they were going to begin hospice care for Jim. He was only home for a few hours before he passed away -- but his family was by his side.

Seals and Crofts are best known for their soft/yacht rock smash "Summer Breeze," but Jim and his musical partner Darrell "Dash" Crofts reeled off a huge string of hits in the 70s.

They also charted with classics like "Diamond Girl" and "Get Closer." They first split up in 1980, but reunited several times in later years, primarily to do live shows as yacht rock became a phenomenon.

They recorded their final album, "Traces," in 2004.

Jimmy's brother, Eddie Seals, tells us ... he was a good person and he was very close to his family. Eddie says, his music was the most important thing he gave to the world and that will be remembered forever.

Jim Seals was 80.

Popular Atlanta rapper Trouble was murdered over the weekend ... prompting his accused killer Jamichael Jones to turn himself in after his own mother talked him into it.

Rockdale County Sheriff's Officers say they connected with Jones on the phone and they set up an arrest point in the parking lot of Clayton County hospital. The 33-year-old was denied bond and faces charges of murder, aggravated assault and home invasion.

Trouble, whose real name is Mariel Semonte Orr, was found at the Lake St. James Apartments Sunday morning suffering from a gunshot wound -- he was then transported to the hospital where he died.

According to investigators, Trouble was visiting a woman at the Conyers apartment complex when he was shot once in the chest. Police are describing it as a "domestic situation," as Trouble and Jones did not know one another but the woman and Jones have prior history.

Trouble was a beloved, standout figure in the hip hop community, stemming from his 2011 debut mixtape "December 17th" and his outspoken presence on social media that often offered jewels of wisdom.

Upon his death, he was mourned by dozens of fellow rappers including Gucci Mane, T.I., Boosie Badazz and Drake, who he collaborated with in 2018 when he signed to Mike WiLL Made-It's "EarDrummers" label imprint.

Trouble was 34.

Alec John Such, the original bassist for Bon Jovi, knew something was wrong in the hours leading up to his death, asking a friend for help in the middle of the night, TMZ has learned.

It was around 2:15 AM Saturday when Alec woke up at his South Carolina home to use the bathroom. On his way back to bed, Alec called out to a friend who was staying with him, the friend helped Alec get back into bed and then left the room, when the friend came back later to check on John, he was dead ... according to Tamara Willard, Chief Deputy Coroner for Horry County.

We're told EMS was called to the scene and performed life-saving measures but couldn't revive Alec. It's believed he died of natural causes ... no accident or foul play is suspected.

As we've reported, Jon Bon Jovi announced the tragic news Sunday ... saying he was heartbroken about Such's passing. As Jon noted, Alec was largely responsible for Bon Jovi coming together in the first place and introducing everyone from the very beginning.

Alec played with the band from 1983 through 1994, including their heyday. And, of course ... he contributed to many of their big hits. He ended up leaving BJ in the '90s, but rejoined them for their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Alec John Such — the original bassist for Bon Jovi — has died.

Jon made the announcement Sunday, writing … “He was an original. As a founding member of Bon Jovi, Alec was integral to the formation of the band.”

He adds that Alec was also, by and largely responsible for Bon Jovi coming together in the first place — mentioning how he was friends with Tico Torres and Richie Sambora at the time and introduced everyone.

JBJ says the memories bring a smile to his face and a "tear to my eye." No details about the circumstances of his death were released.

As Jon noted, Alec was there since the beginning — he played with Bon Jovi from 1983 through 1994, including their heyday. He contributed to hits like "Livin' On a Prayer," "You Give Love a Bad Name," "Wanted Dead or Alive," "Bad Medicine," and "Keep the Faith," among many others.

While he departed from the band in the '90s, Such rejoined them for their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

He was 70.

Metro Boomin is in the throes of a horrific family tragedy -- he's lost his mother at the hands of her husband, who took his own life thereafter ... TMZ has learned.

The producer -- who's cranked out hits for Future, Young Thug, Gucci Mane, Migos, Travis Scott, Drake, Kanye West and 21 Savage, just to name a few -- received the tragic news this weekend after his mother's body was discovered by cops just outside of the Atlanta area.

Sources connected to the investigation tell TMZ ... MB's mom, Leslie Joanne Wayne, appears to have been murdered by her spouse -- not Metro's father -- who then killed himself. We're told this happened Friday night, but further details are hazy.

An autopsy will be conducted for an official cause of death. Metro's rep confirms Leslie died this weekend -- adding that he and his family request privacy during this difficult time.

Leslie raised Boomin and his 3 siblings in St. Louis. Word is, she was one of the first people to notice her son's musical talents ... and encouraged him to pursue his passion through adolescence and early adulthood. She'd even drive him from STL to Atlanta so he could collaborate with artists he was connecting with, all in hopes of getting his career started.

She and her boy were incredibly close -- even when Metro achieved international stardom, she was always at the forefront of his mind.

Pro golfer Bart Bryant -- a 3-time PGA Tour winner -- was tragically killed in a car crash on Tuesday. He was 59 years old.

Tour commissioner Jay Monahan confirmed the sad news in a statement on Wednesday ... saying, "The PGA TOUR is saddened by the tragic passing of Bart Bryant and our hearts go out to his family and friends during this difficult time."

Bryant went pro in 1986 ... but his career was troubled with injuries. He won his first PGA Tour in 2004 ... making him the oldest first-time winner at the Valero Texas Open in 9 years.

The Texas native then went on to win two more tournaments in 2005 ... the Memorial Tournament and the Tour Championship, the latter being a big win over Tiger Woods.

Bryant also won the Dicks Sporting Goods Open in 2013 and 2018.

Bryant's older brother, Brad, is also a former PGA Tour winner.

"The Bryants have been a part of the PGA TOUR family for over four decades," Monahan said.

"We are grateful for the impact and legacy he made on our organization and countless communities. Bart will be dearly missed."

Bryant is survived by his wife Donna, his two daughters, stepchildren and his brother. His first wife, Cathy, passed in 2017.

RIP

John Madden is receiving yet another huge honor following his death ... EA Sports just revealed the Hall of Famer will grace the covers of the "Madden 23" video game this year.

The game -- the most popular football one ever made -- will feature three different versions ... and officials at EA Sports say all three covers will honor various points of Madden's life.

The "All Madden Edition" artwork was released by the video game giant on Wednesday ... showing a young Madden smiling with a football in his hand.

The covers will mark the first time the former Raiders coach and legendary broadcaster has been the main art on the front of the game since 2000.

In his place the past 22 years, the game's biggest stars -- including Patrick Mahomes, Tom Brady, Lamar Jackson and Rob Gronkowski -- have graced the covers of the game.

In addition to announcing the cover art, EA Sports also revealed Wednesday it's dedicating a field at its headquarters in Northern California to the legend who died in December.

Madden is expected to be honored in several other ways in this year's game -- EA Sports officials are slated to announce more features in the coming days and weeks.

The fitness world is mourning the loss of Paul Poloczek, Polish professional bodybuilder, who passed away at the age of 37, according to his partner, Katherin DeNev.

Katherin shared the sad news in a social media post, saying ..."Bodybuilding was your life. You are not forgotten, you live on in our hearts. We will love you forever."

"I love you, baby," she added.

The cause of Paul's death has not yet been revealed.

Poloczek was last seen at the NPC Worldwide Championships in Germany on May 28, according to Generation Iron.

Paul, originally a soccer player, fell in love with weightlifting as a teenager ... and ultimately decided he wanted to turn pro.

At 17, Poloczek won his first Junior Championship bodybuilding competition. From there, PP went on to win or place in several other competitions.

Then, in 2017, Paul earned his pro card after he placed first in the Arnold Classic Amateur bodybuilding competition ... a prestigious event for any bodybuilding competitor.

Shortly after, Paul took a break from the sport ... before returning in 2021 at the Europa Pro where he placed 16th.

Ray Liotta's legacy will surely live on in his hometown, where planning is underway to commemorate the late actor's career in Union Township, New Jersey ... cause the city is planning to honor him in a special way.

Ray grew up in Union Township, New Jersey ... he graduated high school there in 1973, and his iconic roles would make him one of the town's favorite sons. Current mayor Manuel Figueiredo tells TMZ, they are looking at a variety of options to honor Ray, but also giving the family time to grieve before making a final decision.

We're told, the city is considering naming one of its baseball fields after him, as a nod to his role in "Field of Dreams." The field they're looking at is used for youth sports in the area.

In case you didn't know, Ray was born in Newark, but raised in Union Township. His family actually has strong ties there -- his mom was the Township clerk, and his dad was a store owner and President of a local Democratic club.

Ray was inducted into the Union High School Hall of Fame in 1993, and that same year, he participated in the Township's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony.

As we've reported, Ray died in his sleep last week at the age of 67 ... while in the Dominican Republic filming a movie called "Dangerous Waters."

Jeff Gladney, Arizona Cardinals cornerback and former 1st round draft pick, died early Monday morning following a car accident in Dallas.

He was only 25 years old.

The details surrounding the fatal Memorial Day crash are not yet clear.

Gladney, born in Texas in 1996, was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings with the 31st overall pick in 2020 ... after starring at TCU.

The standout corner played in all 16 games for the Vikes in 2020 ... racking up 81 tackles (63 solo).

However, Jeff was cut by Minnesota in the summer of 2021 after being accused of assaulting his girlfriend. The case ultimately went to trial, and Gladney was found not guilty. But, because the trial took time, JG was forced to sit out the entire 2021 season.

After the not guilty verdict, he was free and clear to resume his very promising football career. In fact, the Cardinals just signed Jeff to a new contract in March 2022.

Gladney's agent released a statement, saying ... "We are asking prayers for the family and privacy at this most difficult time."

The NFL world is also mourning the passing. The Cardinals organization issued a statement addressing the tragic news.

"We are devastated to learn of Jeff Gladney's passing. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and all who are mourning this tremendous loss."

Jeff's former TCU teammate, Eagles WR Jalen Reagor, is grieving the loss of his close friend.

"Lost my Brother, my best friend, my right hand man… ain't too much more I can take man damn! R.I.P Jeff Gladney, brother watch over me please."

New Cardinals teammate J.J. Watt spoke on the tragedy, writing "Horrifying news to hear this morning. Just tragic. Rest In Peace Jeff."

The Vikings also issued a statement.

"We are saddened by the tragic death of former Viking Jeff Gladney. Our hearts go out to his family and friends, as well as the Arizona Cardinals organization and Jeff's current and former teammates and coaches who are mourning his life lost much too soon."

Rest in peace.

Master P is mourning the death of his daughter, Tytyana Miller.

The 52-year-old rapper took to social media Sunday night to announce his 29-year-old daughter had passed away.

"Our family is dealing with an overwhelming grief for the loss of my daughter Tytyana," Master P wrote on Instagram. "We respectfully request some privacy so that our family can grieve. We appreciate all of the prayers love and support."

He continued ... "Mental illness & substance abuse is a real issue that we can't be afraid to talk about. With God, we will get through this. #MyAngel."

Master P's son, and Tytyana's older brother, Romeo Miller also took to Instagram to mourn her death.

"Our family is dealing with an overwhelming grief for the loss of my little sister Tytyana. We respectfully request some privacy so that our family can grieve."

He went on ... "We appreciate all of the prayers, love, and support, and although this is sad times, I'm forever grateful for the memories I did have with my amazing sister. Love on your loved ones, life is short. The silver lining, I know she's in a way better place and finally at peace and free. God Bless. - RM"

The cause of death has not been revealed.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... paramedics got an emergency call around 2:30 AM Saturday and responded to a home in the San Fernando Valley. It appears she was pronounced dead on scene -- she was not taken to a hospital.

Tytyana is one of MP's middle children -- she's also one of 4 daughters.

She's been featured on the family's reality show, "Growing Up Hip Hop," and her struggles with substance abuse have been well-documented ... including a dramatic moment where Romeo and P were encouraging her to enter rehab.

As for Tytyana, she had pursued an acting career, and appeared in "A Mother's Choice."

Tytyana was 29.

George Shapiro -- one of the most famous talent managers, who repped stars from Jerry Seinfeld to Andy Kaufman, not to mention a mega TV producer in his own right -- has died.

The one-man band of showbiz passed away from natural causes Thursday at his home in Beverly Hills -- this according to Deadline. No other details of his death were released.

Shapiro cut his teeth in entertainment by working as a hungry talent agent -- surrounding himself with some of the biggest names in entertainment at the time ... including Elvis Presley and Carl Reiner, the latter of whom he went on to represent/manage personally.

Eventually, he started his own business -- and while he continued to manage certain talent, like Kaufman, most of his work seemed to focus on producing hit TV shows ... some of which include "The Steve Allen Show," "That Girl" and 'Gomer Pyle.'

He also packaged a number of specials for huge variety show hosts at the time, like Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore and Carol Channing. But, his biggest contribution to TV would come in the '90s. Of course, we're talking "Seinfeld," for which he served as an EP.

Jerry and George remained very close after the sitcom's epic run -- GS even went on to produce a number of standup specials for Jerry, and memorably appeared in the 2002 doc "Comedian" ... where Jerry tries his hand at comedy again in the wake of "Seinfeld."

As involved as he's been with Jerry over the years -- including continuing to produce for JS's recent projects, like "Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee" -- Shapiro was equally devoted to the late, great Kaufman ... going through the rollercoaster of his notoriety back in the day.

Their relationship was dramatized on film in 1999's 'Man on the Moon,' where Jim Carrey infamously went method to portray Kaufman, and with Danny DeVito playing George.

In short, Shapiro had worked with the best of the best ... and leaves behind a storied career. He's survived by his lifelong partner and mother of his children, Melody, his kids and his many grandchildren. He was 91.

Bo Hopkins -- famous from "American Graffiti" and other '70s cult classic films -- has died.

His wife, Sian, shared the sad news with THR Saturday ... saying BH had passed away a few weeks ago at a hospital in Van Nuys, CA after suffering a heart attack.

Hopkins had some legendary roles throughout his 7-decade career ... mostly carving out a rep as a supporting actor and a great on-screen villain/scoundrel, especially in 'AG' -- where he played Joe, the leader of the Pharaohs' greaser gang at the center of the flick.

'Graffiti' certainly helped put Hopkins on the map, but he'd already been making a name for himself in earlier films -- including a standout performance in "The Wild Bunch," where he played one of the zany outlaws looking to pull a big heist.

There were several other movies in which Hopkins left his mark -- including "Midnight Express," "The Getaway," "The Killer Elite," "The Nickel Ride," "The Only Way Home," "The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing," "Posse," "A Small Town in Texas" "Tentacles" and "White Lightning" -- just to name a few.

He also had a lot of TV roles as well -- having appeared in hit shows such as "Doc Elliot," "Hawaii Five-O," 'Mod Squad,' "Bonanza," "Gunsmoke,"  "Manhunter," "Barnaby Jones," "The Rockford Files," "Charlie's Angels," "The Fall Guy," "Dynasty," "Murder, She Wrote," and others.

Hopkins kept working well into the 2000s -- sometimes even doing voice acting, but for the most part, stuck with gun-slinging characters -- and his last job was in 2020's "Hillbilly Elegy" opposite Glenn Close and Amy Adams.

All in all, he's got over 130 acting credits under his belt ... and is regarded as one of the great supporting actors of his time.

Bo was 80.

Ray Liotta was as polite and courteous as ever when he posed with a fan in the Dominican Republic just days before he passed away -- but more importantly ... he looked fine.

TMZ has obtained a photo of Ray on Sunday, May 22 -- a mere 4 days before he suddenly died in the island nation -- and this woman who was fortunate enough to snap a selfie of the two of them says he was as kind and receptive as could be.

Alba tells us she was strolling through BlueMall in Santo Domingo when she caught a glance of Ray walking alongside a couple of handlers as he was headed into a pharmacy.

While RL was inside, Alba walked up to his associates and asked if she could approach ... and they gave her the thumbs up. Alba says Ray embraced her, and was super gracious ... even praising her on how well she spoke English, given she was a DR native.

Alba would go on to pop the question -- asking for a selfie, not his hand in marriage -- and Ray didn't hesitate to say yes! Once Alba was satisfied with her photo, Ray said farewell.

As we reported, Ray died in his sleep Thursday, as he was accompanied by his fiancée in the Dominican Republic filming a movie called "Dangerous Waters." Sources close to the situation tell us Ray was in good spirits and happy to be working ... and that there were no signs of health issues leading up to his death. That's backed by this photo -- he looks fairly vibrant.

Alec Baldwin and his actor siblings are sharing some sad news ... announcing the death of the famous family's matriarch.

Carol M. Baldwin, the mother to actors Alec, Daniel, William, and Stephen has died ... according to Alec and his brothers.

The Baldwin matriarch died Friday, though the cause of death is unclear. She was diagnosed with breast cancer way back in 1991, going on to raise millions of dollars for cancer research.

In a lengthy tribute posted on social media, Alec remembered his late mother, saying ... "My mother taught me about second acts. And third ones, too. She spent the last 25 years of her life as a fighter and a champion for the cause to which she devoted her life. We are all enormously proud of her accomplishments."

Carol was also the mother of two daughters, Elizabeth and Jane, and she met her future husband, Alec Jr., when they were attending Syracuse University in New York.

Alec's mom raised all 6 of her children herself, then got a job at a marketing research firm when her last child made it to their teenage years.

Carol is not only survived by her 6 kids, but also her 25 grandchildren, including Hailey Bieber, and 14 great-grandchildren.

She was 92.

John Calipari is mourning the loss of college hoops legend Reggie Warford -- the first Black basketball player to graduate from the University of Kentucky -- after he died on Thursday morning.

Cal called the former hooper his "brother" in an emotional tweet ... and added, "I know how much Reggie meant to Kentucky & how he inspired others."

"Reggie and I worked together at Pitt in the 80s and have remained friends," the Wildcats head coach said. "I'm going to miss my brother, may God bless you Reggie."

No cause of death has been revealed ... though the Kentucky icon battled various health issues in the waning years of his life -- requiring several transplants.

He was 67 years old.

Warford played at Kentucky from 1972-1976 and was the program's second-ever Black player. Tom Payne, who signed with the Wildcats in 1969, was the first.

Over the course of his four-year career, Warford played in 50 total games -- scoring 206 points.

Warford went on to graduate from UK with a degree in arts and sciences ... making him, at the time, the first Black four-year player to accomplish the feat.

Kentucky officials remembered the college standout on Thursday while emphasizing the "important role" he played in the landscape of Wildcat sports history.

"It is with great sadness we share the passing of Reggie Warford," the school said in a statement. "Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and teammates."

"Warford was an NIT Champion and the first Black men's basketball player to graduate from the University of Kentucky."

Reggie is survived by his wife, Marisa, and sons, Grant and Tyler.