Family

What you want? Baby, Jennifer Hudson's got it ... especially if you're looking for someone to nail the role of Aretha Franklin!!!

Jennifer and Forest Whitaker were filming the upcoming biopic -- aptly titled "Respect" -- Friday in Manhattan's Washington Square Park. Props to the wardrobe and hair department too ... 'cause Jennifer's got the Queen of Soul down pat.

Forest is playing the role of Aretha's father, C.L. Franklin, a Baptist minister and civil rights activist also known as the man with the "Million-Dollar Voice."

As you know ... Jennifer was reportedly hand-picked for this role by Aretha before she died in 2018. Seeing the Oscar winner on set ... we gotta say, Franklin couldn't have chosen better.

We've already seen Jennifer as a young Aretha, kissing her onscreen husband, Marlon Wayans, in November ... and now we've got another look.

Bottom line ... Jennifer ain't gonna do you wrong when "Respect" hits theaters this summer.

Vanessa Bryant says Kobe's charity will have a new name -- the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation -- and she says it's all to honor Gianna Bryant.

"Because there is no #24 without #2, we have updated the Mamba Sports Foundation to now be called the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation," Vanessa said Thursday.

It's an amazing tribute ... especially because Vanessa says the foundation's goal of helping young people through sports "remains the same -- and stronger than ever."

If you're unfamiliar ... Kobe's charity has helped more than 10,000 kids as well as hundreds of veterans -- with the org saying they have over 1,000 volunteers lending a hand.

The charity has been flooded with donations since Kobe and Gigi tragically died in a helicopter crash on Jan. 26 -- and Vanessa says she's overwhelmed by the love.

"Thank you all for the outpouring of support and your kind donations to date as we carry forth Kobe and Gigi’s legacy," Vanessa said. "We hope to empower young athletes in a world they left us all to help shape."

A memorial for Kobe and Gigi has been set for Feb. 24 at Staples Center ... and we're told proceeds from the tickets will be donated to charity.

It's unclear which orgs will get the benefits ... but it seems safe to assume the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation will be one of the organizations to get money.

Michael Lohan's estranged wife, Kate Major, was arrested for DWI a day before Mike got busted for allegedly hurting her -- and one incident allegedly caused the other.

TMZ has learned Kate was arrested and booked for driving while intoxicated on Sunday out in the Hamptons. According to law enforcement, troopers got a complaint of reckless driving, and when they stopped Kate and interviewed her ... they suspected she'd been boozing.

We're told the officers detected an odor of alcohol on Kate's breath, and they claim she ended up blowing a 0.24 BAC. That's really high.

Our sources say Kate was taken in, booked for DWI and given a court date later this month.

Now, the timing here is interesting ... because about 24 hours later, Michael was also arrested. He was booked for allegedly choking Kate. The actual charges were criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and harassment. Kate told police Michael had attacked her.

He denied it and elaborated ... telling TMZ, Kate actually called cops and made up this lie to get back at him for snitching on her to cops. Michael claims, as he first told DailyMail, he actually called the police Sunday because he suspected Kate was drinking and driving.

Cut to Monday ... Michael says he showed up to his lawyer's office Monday -- to discuss Kate's arrest -- but instead, cops showed up and placed him under arrest.

Apparently, the plan was for Kate to check in with their lawyer after being released and get herself into rehab. Obviously, things took a left turn --  and now, Mike's got his own case to deal with. He says he's gonna present evidence to the DA and judge to clear his name.

Becky Lynch is giving advice to Dwayne Johnson's daughter, telling TMZ Sports ... Simone should NOT try to be the WWE's next "Rock"!!!

And, why? The Man says it'll only overshadow her hard work!!!

"I would like her to be seen as the athlete and performer she is, in her own right, and not have her constantly compared to her dad," Becky says.

Of course, the WWE just announced Simone Johnson is training to become the league's next superstar ... and a lot of people want her to reprise The People's Elbow as her signature move.

Becky tells us she can see a scenario where that would be appropriate for the younger Johnson ... but says Simone would be better off creating her own character and finishing move.

"I think it'll be good for her to try and make her own way," Becky says. "Don't rely on the past. Don't rely on what got other people over. Try to make something new for yourself."

The advice didn't stop there ... Becky also said Simone needs to outwork EVERYBODY -- saying her famous father's shadow is going to create a huge spotlight on her from Day 1.

As for if Becky thinks Simone has the chops to cut it ... The Man says of course -- and tells us she's looking forward to their championship matchup in five years!!

Dwyane Wade's oldest son, Zaire, is making it crystal clear he will always have his sibling's back ... posting an emotional message to Zaya after coming out as transgender.

The NBA legend appeared on 'The Ellen Show' Tuesday and revealed his 12-year-old identified as female ... and shared how his family is supporting her.

18-year-old Zaire is now speaking out on the announcement ... saying "I have been blessed to have my best friend, Zaya with me for 12 years."

"We did everything together...we fought, we played, we laughed and we cried. But the one thing we never did was leave each other behind... "

Zaire continued ... "I’ve told you that I would lay my life down to make sure you are ten toes down and happy on this earth."

"I don’t care what they think Z, you are my best friend and I love you kid, and if it means anything, just know there’s no love lost on this side."

Zaire's always been supportive of Zaya ... and even went with her to the Miami Pride parade last year.

As for Zaya, she spoke out against those who may disagree with her announcement ... saying "What's the point of being on this earth if you're gonna try to be someone you're not? It's like you're not even living as yourself, which is like the dumbest concept to me."

Zaya is speaking out on the announcement ... giving advice to those who may be going through similar situations.

"What's the point of being on this earth if you're gonna try to be someone you're not? It's like you're not even living as yourself, which is like the dumbest concept to me.

"It's just like, be true and don't really care what the stereotypical way of being you is."

She added, "Even through hard times, you gotta push through. It's worth it when you reach that point of yourself."

Gabrielle Union posted the video of Zaya talking about the announcement, saying "She's compassionate, loving, whip smart and we are so proud of her. It’s Ok to listen to, love & respect your children exactly as they are. Love and light good people."

NBA legend Dwyane Wade just revealed his 12-year-old now identifies as female ... saying his child asked him and his wife, Gabrielle Union, to call her Zaya.

"Zion, born as a boy, came home and said, 'Hey, so, I want to talk to you guys. I think going forward I'm ready to live my truth." Wade said on "The Ellen Show."

"And, I want to be referenced as she and her. I would love for you guys to call me Zaya.'"

Wade discussed his support for Zaya and the LGBTQ+ community in a powerful interview with Ellen DeGeneres ... saying he and Gabrielle couldn't be more proud of her.

“We take our roles and responsibilities as parents very seriously. So, when our child comes home with a question ... it’s our job as parents to listen to that to give them the best information that we can, the best feedback that we can, and that doesn’t change now that sexuality [and gender] is involved.”

Wade has been incredibly outspoken about his support for Zaya ... and clapped back at people criticizing her in a family photo back on Thanksgiving.

"Stupidity is a part of this world we live in — so I get it. But, here's the thing — I've been chosen to lead my family, not y'all," Wade said at the time.

"So we will continue to be us and support each other with pride, love & a smile!"

In fact, Union and Zaire Wade took Zaya to the Miami Pride parade back in 2019.

Wade went on to explain, “I looked at her and said you are a leader ... It’s our opportunity to allow you to be a voice. Right now, it’s through us because she’s 12 years old, but eventually, it will be through her.”

Kanye West may not like this ... Kim Kardashian says she doesn't think she can handle any more children because they wouldn't get the attention they deserve.

Kim makes the revelation on Laura Wasser's 'All's Fair' podcast ... telling the Disso Queen she's open to having more babies with Kanye but has some serious doubts about doing so.

As you know ... Kanye recently said he wants 7 kids, despite his wife saying she's ready to throw in the towel after becoming a mother of 4.

Kim says she's already got her hands full with Saint, North, Chicago and Psalm ... and she's worried about not being able to pay enough attention to all the little ones if the family expands.

While Kim admits having more kids would be nice, she says her age and her desire to become a lawyer are two major roadblocks.

It's funny ... Kim says she still hounds Kris Jenner on the daily, and that's another reason why she's got some reservations.

Laura's podcast is available on iHeartRadio today. Her website -- Itsovereasy.com -- is also available for people who are getting divorced and don't want to break the bank or wage war.

Three victims in the Kobe Bryant helicopter crash were honored with a special memorial service at Angel Stadium.

John Altobelli, his wife, Keri, and their daughter, Alyssa, were remembered at a public memorial Monday ... just two weeks after Kobe Bryant's helicopter crashed, killing 8 passengers plus the pilot.

The service included speakers close to the Altobellis. There was also a video tribute.

The Costa Mesa Fire Department rolled out its fire trucks and hung a massive American flag to honor the victims. There's also a sign in front of Angel Stadium that reads "Celebrating the Lives of John, Keri and Alyssa" with the entire family pictured.

Not far from the main entrance is also a huge collage of the Altobellis.

Altobelli, of course, had deep roots in Orange County. He was entering his 28th season as Orange Coast College's baseball coach. The Pirates were coming off an incredibly successful season ... after capturing their fourth state title.

Alyssa and Gianna Bryant were teammates at the Mamba Sports Academy. She was only 14 and Gianna 13, respectively. You'll recall, Gianna had her No. 2 jersey retirement ceremony at her private school last week.

The Altobellis have 2 surviving children -- a 29-year-old son, and a 16-year-old daughter.

Greek Freak Jr. is here!!!

Giannis Antetokounmpo and his longtime girlfriend, Mariah Riddlesprigger, have welcomed their baby boy ... and his name is Liam Charles Antetokounmpo!!

The Milwaukee Bucks superstar posted the announcement on Twitter Monday afternoon ... saying their baby is "in the house."

The Alphabet also shared a glimpse of his son -- but with a baby emoji covering his face.

Of course, Giannis and Mariah -- a former Rice University volleyball player -- have been together for years ... and this is their first child together.

As for Giannis' on-the-court business ... the dude is crushing it this season after winning the MVP trophy in 2019. He's currently averaging 30 points and 13.5 rebounds a game.

So, yeah ... this year has been good to Giannis.

"My brain refuses to accept that both Kobe and Gigi are gone."

Vanessa Bryant just opened up about how she's dealing with the tragic losses of her husband and 13-year-old daughter ... and it's emotional.

"I can’t process both at the same time," Vanessa said. "It's like I'm trying to process Kobe being gone but my body refuses to accept my Gigi will never come back to me."

"It feels wrong," she added. "Why should I be able to wake up another day when my baby girl isn’t being able to have that opportunity?! I’m so mad. She had so much life to live."

Vanessa says one of the things keeping her going so strong throughout this insanely difficult time is the example she feels she needs to set for her three daughters.

"Mad I'm not with Kobe and Gigi but thankful I'm here with Natalia, Bianka and Capri," Vanessa said. "I know what I'm feeling is normal. It's part of the grieving process. I just wanted to share in case there’s anyone out there that’s experienced a loss like this."

"God I wish they were here and this nightmare would be over. Praying for all of the victims of this horrible tragedy. Please continue to pray for all."

As we previously reported, Kobe and Gianna Bryant -- along with seven others -- passed away in a helicopter crash on Jan. 26.

Kobe Bryant's youngest daughter is already learning to stand up on her own two feet -- and her mom, Vanessa, is right there capturing every adorable moment of it on camera.

7-month-old Capri Kobe is the star of Vanessa's most recent IG post, impressively attempting to get up from the floor with the help of her aunt -- Kobe's sister, Sharia Washington. It's so freakin' cute, honestly ... the joy both Vanessa and Capri share is a sight to behold.

VB captioned the video, "My Koko Bean. She looks just like my Gigi. ☀️💗auntie Ri-Ri. #7months." You hear Vanessa cheer the kid on as she gets up twice in a row from a seated position ... the baby loves the encouragement, giggling and eager to try it again.

As tragic as the loss of Kobe and Gigi must be on the Bryant family right now, it's great to see Vanessa in good spirits. She's been fairly open on social media thus far, capturing Gigi's jersey retirement as well as capturing the Lakers' tribute in Staples Center.

The Rock shared the moving eulogy he delivered for his father's funeral.

Rocky "Soulman" Johnson died last month, and Rock wanted his fans to know what his dad meant to him.  He said, “Man, I wish I had … I wish I had one more shot. I wish I had one more shot to say goodbye … to say I love you, to say thank you, but I have a feeling he’s watching. He’s listening.”

And, he went on ... “I was on my way to work, the other day on Jan. 15 and I was just pulling into work and we were shooting that day and it was the very first day of production,” he said, going on to tell the story of how his wife Lauren called to tell him that “something’s going on with your dad.”

“Lauren was with our babies, she was with my mom and she said, ‘You know, I really can’t talk… I think you should call Cora though’, so of course I called Cora,”

Soulman passed away from a heart attack on January 15 at age 75. He started the National Wrestling Alliance in the '60s and joined the WWE in the '80s.

Rocky and Tony Atlas became the league's first African-American tag team champions as The Soul Patrol.

Lori Harvey had just one answer when asked if her man Future's been father-approved -- BOY, BYE!!! Yeah, she played it coy with our camera guy.

We got Lori out at LAX Friday morning and, of course, we had to ask if Steve Harvey's got a crazy screening process when it comes to her boyfriends. Lori admits Steve's very protective ... but is he over barring and going full CIA mode?

Well, Lori wouldn't let up but when our camera guy finally worked up the courage to ask about Future, Lori played it safe and bolted. Smart kid.

As we reported ... Future posted a picture up close and personal with Lori last month living it up in Jamaica. He rightfully noted, "Life is Good." They had been linked together in Nigeria but it became official on their Jamaica trip to celebrate her 23rd birthday.

Now ... asking her if Steve's approved of Future's a legit question considering Steve wrote a book for women on playing the dating game. Seems the jury's still out ... or is it?

Here's Beyonce and Blue Ivy looking like walking, talking advertisements for Queen Bey's new clothing line collab with Adidas.

Beyonce and Blue Ivy stepped out Thursday in some matching gear from the Adidas x Ivy Park activewear collection ... spending part of their day fabric shopping at Mood Fabrics in New York City, with NY Fashion Week in full swing.

As we've reported ... Beyonce's been hooking up her famous friends with HUGE care packages from the collection ... including Missy Elliott, Cardi B, Zendaya, Ellen DeGeneres, Hailey Bieber, Janelle Monáe and Kelly Rowland ... so you just knew it was only a matter of time before Blue Ivy got in on the action.

Seems like Beyonce and Jay-Z's daughter is really into the big shopping spree too.

As you know ... Beyonce went full thirst trap to promote the clothing line ... but mama's way more modest with Blue Ivy in tow.

Louis C.K. just called off 4 shows at the Houston Improv and is offering refunds to everyone who bought tickets ... or they can wait for him to reschedule.

TMZ's learned the comedian postponed the gigs -- starting tonight and going through Sunday -- due to an "unforeseen family emergency." Those who were planning on attending have been informed they can keep their tickets and exchange them for the rescheduled dates in May, or return them and get their money back.

According to the email sent to ticket holders, anyone who bought tix to Louis' postponed shows will also score a free ticket to see the replacement act this weekend -- comedian Joe Machi. Even those who chose to get a refund can take advantage of this offer.

It's unclear what family emergency C.K. is dealing with.

As we've reported ... Louis has been back on the stand-up circuit for the past several months, making a comeback of sorts after admitting in November 2017 to years of sexual misconduct and abusing his power in the comedy world.

His return has been met with a mix of criticism and support, but one thing he hasn't stopped doing is offending people.

Meghan and Harry want to keep the prying public at bay at their Canadian home, going to extreme measures to make it happen ... including cameras and tarps along the property.

TMZ has obtained photos of some new security features the Duke and Duchess of Sussex recently installed to ward off any curious peeping Toms who might wanna try to get a glimpse into their private life at their North Saanich villa on Vancouver Island.

The latest bells and whistles ... a giant tarp that's hanging in between trees, and at least one security camera along the beach, which we're told has a wandering lens. You might've also noticed the fence, the front gate cover and the Home Depot "No Trespassing" sign too.

Those have been there since they've moved in over the past couple of months, but we're told the camera and tree tarp are the most recent measures taken for privacy/security.

It's just another sign Meg and Har really don't want to be under the spotlight post-Megxit and will do just about anything to keep people away ... including pesky photogs. Remember, Meghan has already threatened to sue media outlets for using pics taken of her and Archie hiking the Canadian woods. She was out in public though, not on her own grounds.

Looks like they want to avoid a repeat situation at home. Cabin fever, anyone?