R. Kelly Hasn't Contacted Fam Since 2017 ... Despite Claim He's Trying
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EXCLUSIVE
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7:45 AM PT-- Kelly directly addressed his failure to pay child support during his CBS interview ... and is blaming his ex-wife, Drea. He claims her "lies" about his abuse are the very reason he can't make money to pay her.
R. Kelly's lying through his teeth when he says he's trying to have a relationship with his children, because he's had a chance to for years and ignored it.
Sources close to the situation are calling BS on some of Kelly's antics with CBS News ... particularly the part of about "trying to have a relationship with my kids." We're told the singer hasn't even tried to reach out to his 3 children with his ex-wife, Drea Kelly, since 2017.
As we reported ... the singer went ballistic during his interview with Gayle King, and at one point screamed he was only trying to repair ties with his kids and didn't care about his career.
Our sources say that's all for show -- after all, we're told he changed his number and never gave it to Drea.
Speaking of Drea ... she maintains she's open to Kelly reconnecting with their children, who are adults now -- which is somewhat surprising, considering how she ripped into him in the "Surviving R. Kelly" docuseries.
Kelly's daughter, Buku Abi, also says she and her siblings have been estranged from their father for years. Although, she called him a "monster" ... Kelly, ironically, chalks that up to brainwashing from Drea.
Either way, Kelly has definitely come up short with his kids when it comes to child support ... which is why he was arrested again Wednesday. As we reported, he'll need to fork over more than $161k to Drea to be released.
We're told when he appeared before the judge, his legal team pitched a payment plan option ... but it didn't fly.
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Jack Osbourne Officially Divorced
Jack Osbourne is officially a single man again -- a judge just greenlit his divorce from Lisa Stelly.
According to court docs, obtained by TMZ, Jack and Lisa's divorce case is now closed ... the judge signed off Tuesday on their agreement. It's been nearly a year since Lisa initially filed for divorce from Jack -- and there's been a lot that's happened between them since then.
Jack allegedly punched Lisa's new boyfriend, Michael Gabel, when he tried intervening in an argument Jack and Lisa were having a few months after she took their split to court. A battery report was taken, but Michael refused to press charges against Jack.
Sources familiar with the situation told us at the time that Jack thought he and Lisa were on track to repair their relationship, and the new BF showing up threw him. Jack was spotted back at the house a few days after the attack and he left without incident that time.
Based on what we've seen from Lisa and Jack in the recent past, things should be just fine now as they continue to co-parent. They have 3 young kids together.
We broke the story ... Jack and Lisa settled their divorce back in the summer, with Jack agreeing to pay her a sizable cash payout and significant child support. They're going to share joint custody of the kids.
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R. Kelly New Allegations Surface ... On the Heels of Arrest
7:27 PM PT -- It's turning out to be a long day for Kelly. Chief James Craig of the Detroit PD just confirmed to TMZ that roughly a month ago they got information from Chicago PD about an alleged victim, "who made allegations of a criminal sexual conduct incident against R. Kelly."
He states the incident potentially occurred in Detroit back in 2001 -- when the alleged victim was 13. They are currently working on following up with her and her attorney.
2:19 PM PT -- R. Kelly has just been led away in handcuffs.
JUST IN: Cook County Sheriff's Office: R. Kelly taken into custody at a hearing over unpaid child support; he will be be transferred to county jail - @NBCChicago pic.twitter.com/Q2YNAMVnYc
@NBCNews
2:03 PM PT -- The Cook County Sheriff's Office tells TMZ ... R. Kelly's headed to jail for failure to pay child support. He'll need to cough up the full amount of dough to be released.
1:35 PM PT -- Deputies just escorted R. Kelly out of the courtroom, and he's been arrested. No official word from court, but it would appear he didn't cough up the $161k.
11:52 AM PT -- R. Kelly just showed up to court in a black sprinter van accompanied by his legal team. We're told the child support hearing is set to begin any minute now.
Right now....R.Kelly arrives for child support court-@cbschicago pic.twitter.com/naX2cqWXPw
@DeidraCBS2
R. Kelly's dangerously close to heading right back to Cook County jail for failing to pay more than $160k in child support.
Sources connected to the embattled singer tell us Kelly hasn't covered the $161,633 he owes to his ex-wife, Drea Kelly, and his deadline is today ... Wednesday at 10 AM Central Time. If Kelly doesn't settle up with the court by then, he can be hauled off to jail.
Ironically, Kelly ranted and sobbed to CBS about wanting a relationship with his kids. That interview was taped Tuesday, and we're told he had not paid at that point.
TMZ broke the story ... Kelly actually owes Drea nearly $200k, all told, and he's known since last month he had to pay the minimum amount of $161k by March 6.
Additionally, the D.A. could charge him criminally for failure to pay the support. Any amount over $20k is a felony.
We've reached out to Kelly's attorney, but no word back.
Originally Published -- 6:40 AM PT
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Paris Jackson Still Believes Michael's Innocent Despite 'Leaving Neverland'
Paris Jackson isn't swayed by the allegations levied against her father in "Leaving Neverland" -- and firmly believes Michael Jackson was not a child molester.
Sources close to Paris tell TMZ ... she hasn't seen the explosive new documentary, and contrary to reports, she was not offered the chance to see it before it premiered at Sundance.
We're also told she's not the least bit torn or conflicted about its content -- Wade Robson and James Safechuck's graphic description of their alleged molestation at Jackson's hands.
Reaction to the project has been intense and passionate -- on both sides -- with even the almost universally beloved Oprah catching flak for her interview with the accusers.
The Jackson family as a whole has been outspoken about their anger over the documentary -- and Tito's son, Taj Jackson, told us he thinks Robson's making it all up for revenge.
Interestingly, Paris' mom, Debbie Rowe, is also avoiding it. Our sources say she doesn't see a point in watching 'Neverland' because Michael's been dead for years.
Fair to say, Michael's family is taking a united stance.
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Luke Perry's Son Pulls Out Of Wrestling Show ... After Dad's Death
Luke Perry's son is dropping out of a wrestling show he was scheduled to be a part of next week ... after his father died following a massive stroke.
Jack Perry -- who wrestles under the name "Jungle Boy" -- is pulling out of Bar Wrestling's March 13 show in Los Angeles ... according to an announcement from the organization.
Bar Wrestling says Jack won't be getting in the ring next week at the Bootleg Theater ... saying "our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family at this time."
It's unclear why Jack is dropping out of the event ... but it's safe to assume his father's death is playing a role in his decision.
We broke the story ... Luke died Monday after being unable to recover from a massive stroke. He was 52.
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Luke Perry Daughter Breaks Silence on Death ... Thanks Supporters for the Love
Luke Perry's daughter has broken her silence on her father's passing by thanking everyone and, understandably ... admitting she's at a loss about what to do next.
Sophie Perry shared a sweet photo with her dad on Instagram Tuesday, in which the 2 are smiling while standing in a pasture with some horses. She also touched on the tragic week that befell her family.
She says ... "A lot has happened in this past week for me. Everything is happening so fast. I made it back from Malawi just in time to be here with my family."
Sophie adds she's received an overwhelming amount of love, support and heartfelt messages, and while she can't respond to all of them ... she wants everyone to know she's extremely grateful.
As for dealing with her dad's death, Luke's daughter says she's not sure how to handle the situation because ... "it’s something you aren’t ever given a lesson on how to handle, especially when it’s all happening in the public eye."
We broke the story ... Perry died Monday after being unable to recover from a massive stroke he suffered last week. He was 52.
RIP
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Oprah Target of Ruthless, Hateful Messages From Michael Jackson Fans
Oprah Winfrey is getting inundated with hate-filled messages from Michael Jackson fans ahead of her big interview with his accusers from "Leaving Neverland."
Oprah's interview with Jackson accusers Wade Robson and James Safechuck is set to air Monday night on HBO after Part 2 of "Leaving Neverland." Excerpts have already been released ... and, clearly, the content is pissing off MJ's most passionate followers.
In a clip from the interview taped Wednesday, Oprah says "Leaving Neverland" transcends Michael ... and speaks to a larger societal issue regarding sexual abuse. She doesn't say whether she believes Robson and Safechuck -- both of whom have previously testified MJ never molested them.
The interview alone has still been enough to trigger this kind of Internet hate.
One user posted, "If karma is real after @Oprah is laid to rest, which I hope is many years from now, ppl will come out of the woodwork to lie on, betray and besmirch her name the way it is being done to Michael Jackson. And ppl she once let into her inner circle will lead the way."
Another tweet reads, "@Oprah you're disgusting... a cheap mercenary.. karma will punish you.. #MJInnocent @michaeljackson we will fight for you."
There's another clip Oprah released that actually asks a hard question of both Wade and James -- why did they keep associating with Michael if he had, in fact, abused them? On its face, the question shows Oprah's objectivity ... but that seems to be lost on rabid MJ fans.
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Rob Kardashian & Blac Chyna We Can Work It Out!!! Talking Again About Dream
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EXCLUSIVE
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Rob Kardashian and Blac Chyna weren't faking it when they exchanged Twitter pleasantries -- the two are actively communicating and repairing their relationship ... for Dream's sake.
Sources close to the former couple say they underwent at least 7 mediation sessions together to iron out a deal for custody of Dream, and they've continued to be in direct contact about their daughter's care. Translation: for the first time in a LONG time Rob and Chyna are cordial.
We're told the goal is for Rob and Chyna to make face-to-face handoffs of Dream. Of course, they'll still have nannies standing by to assist sometimes.
As for the physical custody of Dream -- Rob will have her for the majority, but they'll be splitting holidays equally and finding ways to accommodate both parents' schedules.
We're told they came to an understanding, during mediation, that neither would bring a new significant other around Dream unless it was a long term, healthy relationship.
As we reported, Rob was previously forking over $20K per month in child support, but that number has been reduced.
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Damon Dash I'll Face Music on Child Support Warrants ... But I Can Prove I Paid!!!
Damon Dash says he's turning himself in to deal with outstanding warrants for failure to pay child support -- but tells us his exes are lying, and he's got proof.
The rap mogul tells TMZ ... he'll surrender to authorities in NYC nearly 3 years after a family court judge first signed a warrant for his arrest. Damon's accused of owing nearly $400k in support to Cindy Morales, mother of his son, Lucky -- and to his ex-wife, Rachel Roy, with whom he has daughters Ava and Tallulah.
Dame says the warrants are BS because he's given both women more than enough dough -- including $150k he gave Cindy for a home. He also claims Rachel draws her payments directly from his share of Rachel Roy Collection ... the clothing company they co-own.
As for why he's finally dealing with this -- Dash says the warrants prevent him from traveling back to NY, and he's just missing too many important events ... like family funerals.
He says he's even willing to sit in jail but definitely won't cop to any allegations he's not taking care of his 3 kids.
BTW, the child support isn't the only issue he's hot about -- Dame claims Rachel's pressing him to hand her majority ownership of their company. Watch the clip ... she might not want to hold her breath.
Offset Cardi's Helping Him Become Better Man ... Baby Mama Says
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EXCLUSIVE
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Offset is becoming a better father and a better man, and it's all thanks to Cardi B ... so says one of the rapper's baby mamas.
Shya L'amour, the mother of Offset's oldest daughter, Kalea, tells us she's noticed tremendous growth from Offset over the last few years ... and she's giving Cardi all the credit.
It's quite the change in tune from Shya, who made headlines this week when she lashed out at Offset over some lyrics in his new album, "Father Of 4."
As you know ... Shya was PISSED when she heard how Offset portrayed their relationship in one of his new songs -- claiming he didn't know if he was Kalea's father.
Offset raps ... "Kalea, you my first, first daughter. I missed the first years of your life, I'm sorry. Tell the truth, I ain't really know if I was your father. Tell the truth, I really don't even know your mama."
Shya, who's also in the music biz, tells us she just wanted to share her side of things ... because Offset's lyrics hurt her.
It's all water under the bridge now ... because Shya says Offset's developing a strong relationship with their daughter, and Cardi's embracing Kalea as well.
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Khloe Kardashian Tristan's to Blame, Not Jordyn For My Family Breakup
Khloe Kardashian's had a change of heart, because now she's saying Jordyn Woods should not be blamed for breaking up her family ... this is Tristan Thompson's doing.
Khloe just posted a series of tweets starting with, "This has been an awful week & I know everyone is sick of hearing about it all (as am I). I’m a rollercoaster of emotions & have said things I shouldn’t have."
She then adds this has been very painful because she was hurt by someone close to her who she loves and treats like a little sister -- Jordyn -- but ultimately ... this is all Tristan's fault.
It's interesting ... Khloe adds even though she was humiliated by Tristan cheating on her -- it wasn't as much of a shock this time around.
Now she says it's time for her to move on and count her blessings -- "my family, my health, & my beautiful baby True."
3/1/19
This is a near 180 from Friday when Khloe quickly called BS on Jordyn's story on "'Red Table Talk" and accused her of being a liar and home-wrecker. Jordyn admitted she shouldn't have gone to Thompson's house party, but claimed she didn't really cheat with him ... there was just a friendly goodbye kiss with zero passion.
Why are you lying @jordynwoods ?? If you’re going to try and save yourself by going public, INSTEAD OF CALLING ME PRIVATELY TO APOLOGIZE FIRST, at least be HONEST about your story. BTW, You ARE the reason my family broke up!
@khloekardashian
Khloe later said they were equally to blame.
Regardless of who's at fault ... Khloe's unfollowed both Tristan and Jordyn on social media.
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Kylie Jenner I'm Still With Travis ... At Least for Now
Kylie Jenner isn't going to make any drastic decisions to blow up her family -- at least not yet -- and she's willing to try and work things out with Travis Scott ... sources tell TMZ.
TMZ broke the story ... the couple got into a massive fight Wednesday after Travis flew home to surprise his baby mama and Stormi. We're told at some point during the visit, Kylie went through Travis' phone and discovered "evidence" he had been unfaithful.
Travis' reps tell us the rapper insists he did not cheat.
Our sources say Travis stayed at Kylie's home Wednesday and Thursday, and the couple tried working things out. We're told Kylie was extremely pissed at him, but she's trying to keep her emotions in check ... in no small part for the sake of their daughter.
Sources close to Travis say he plans to take the stage in NYC at Madison Square Garden Saturday night. You'll recall -- Scott canceled his show Thursday in Buffalo, claiming he was ill -- but we're told the fight with Kylie was the real reason for pulling the plug.
3/1/19
As for the situation with Kylie's best friend, Jordyn Woods ... Kylie's family is furious after her interview on "Red Table Talk," but Kylie hasn't ruled out a future reconciliation with her. Khloe, clearly, has a different opinion.
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Michael Jackson HBO Threatened Over Molestation Insinuation ... Leave Me Out of 'Leaving Neverland'!!!
Michael Jackson never molested a guy named Brett Barnes -- so says Barnes himself -- and he's getting ready to sue HBO for a documentary insinuating he was sexually abused by MJ.
The upcoming documentary, "Leaving Neverland," shows Brett, and he claims it implies Jackson molested him as a boy. As for why Barnes thinks this ... Wade Robson -- one of Jackson's well-known alleged victims -- claims in the doc, Barnes "replaced him." The film then shows Michael and Brett together on tour. Thus, the insinuation.
Barnes lawyered up and threatened HBO with a lawsuit, claiming the documentary puts him in a false light and subjects him to "hatred, contempt and ridicule." Presumably, the lawyer is saying MJ supporters will target Barnes as a result of the documentary.
Barnes testified at Jackson's criminal trial in 2005 -- along with Macaulay Culkin -- that he was never sexually abused by Jackson ... and he hasn't changed his account since. Brett also tweeted about the MJ allegations in January, calling them "lies."
Not only do we have to deal with these lies, but we’ve also got to deal with people perpetuating these lies. The fact that they fail to do the small amount of research it takes to prove these are lies, by choice or not, makes it even worse.
@IAmBrettBarnes
"Leaving Neverland" does include Barnes' denial that Jackson did anything inappropriate, but only for a few seconds in writing on the screen. Brett's camp doesn't think that's nearly enough to "cure such a despicable allegation."
Barnes says he wants nothing to do with the film, does not give HBO his consent to use his image and likeness and wants all references to him axed ... or else.
We're told HBO replied to the letter, telling Barnes to pound sand. We're told a lawsuit now looms.
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Ex-NFL Coach Mike McCarthy Investigated Over 'Verbal Tirade' ... at High School Game
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Breaking News
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Ex-Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy is under fire after officials say they have video of the 55-year-old berating officials at his stepson's high school basketball game.
McCarthy was allegedly pissed off at the referees after his stepson's Notre Dame Academy lost to Pulaski High on Tuesday night ... and followed the refs as they left the court.
Officials say McCarthy went on a "verbal tirade" -- using inappropriate language to rip the refs.
Officials have filed an "abuse against contest officials" complaint against McCarthy and the school is investigating.
Footage captured by the school district shows a man -- identified as McCarthy -- following the refs and yelling at them.
Pulaski athletic director Janel Batten explained it this way -- "This parent chose to follow the officials and berate them, which is clearly unacceptable."
"Some things were said, some language was used that we don't want in our gym, unsportsmanlike language," she told WLUK.
McCarthy has reportedly been a regular at his stepson's basketball games this season.
McCarthy coached the Packers from 2006 to 2018 -- leading the Cheeseheads to a Super Bowl victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2011.
He was fired last year after reported tension between him and star quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
McCarthy was angling to coach the New York Jets -- but they went with Adam Gase instead.
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Kim Kardashian Help Me, YouTube ... Stop the 'Momo Challenge' Craze!!!
Kim Kardashian's put herself squarely in the middle of the modern-day ghost story known as the "Momo Challenge."
Kim is begging YouTube to help remove all "Momo Challenge" videos. If you haven't heard about it ... the videos contain a creepy figure popping up, instructing kids to kill themselves ... and intimidating them to keep the video secret from parents.
Kim posted a plea for YouTube to get on the stick and shut it down, but the video platform tells us they've seen no evidence the 'Momo' clips actually exist. At this point ... it's more urban myth than a real thing.
Kim reposted a bunch of messages from concerned parents who've heard about the "Momo" -- although we suspect none have seen it themselves.
YouTube tells us it hasn't received any evidence of videos showing or promoting the "Momo Challenge" on its platform. If it does exist, YouTube says it would be a clear violation of its policies ... and would, therefore, be removed immediately.
It's unclear if Kim and Kanye's kids have encountered 'Momo' themselves, but it's clear Kim wants to prevent anything bad from happening.
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R. Kelly Investigated for Criminal Failure to Pay Child Support
10:58 AM PT -- R. Kelly's attorney, Steven Greenberg, tells TMZ, "In 30 years of practicing criminal defense law, I have never seen anyone prosecuted for non-payment of child support. Maybe it happens, but I've never seen it done in Illinois."
10:25 AM PT -- Drea Kelly's management team tells TMZ, "We are aware that they are bringing criminal charges for non-payment of child support and we support any and all efforts that will make sure that his children are taken care of."
R. Kelly's freedom may be short-lived because we've learned prosecutors in Chicago are looking at charging him with the CRIME of failing to pay child support.
Sources connected to the case tell TMZ, the State's Attorney is investigating the over $160k he owes ex-wife Drea Kelly. We're told Drea has been in touch with prosecutors who are now looking to charge R. Kelly with the offense of failure to support. Any amount over $20k can be filed as a felony.
If he's charged, he can be immediately arrested and will land right back in jail.
As you know, the judge has ordered the singer to pay the $161,663 by March 6 or else he'll go back to jail. But, our sources say the State's Attorney does not want the singer out of custody and is now looking at accelerating things by filing a criminal case.
R. Kelly clearly had problems posting bond in the sex abuse case. He sat in jail for days until a friend posted the $100k.
Originally Published -- 10:10 AM PT