Lisa Vanderpump Shades Bravo For Being Cheap ... New Costar Bankrolls Party

THANKS FOR EVERYTHING
TMZ.com
UPDATE

7:22 AM PT -- A source at Bravo tells us the network rarely throws premiere parties and it's usually up to the production company to sponsor one. We're told Bravo did have a party for the show's first season ... but Lisa was simply making a joke Monday night.

Lisa Vanderpump just couldn't resist taking a swipe at Bravo for skipping out on the tab for a "Vanderpump Rules" party ... but fortunately, the newest cast member has deep pockets.

Check out this video from Monday night's bash at Hyde on Sunset, where the cast was celebrating the 8th season of "Vanderpump Rules" ... Lisa grabs the mic and puts the network on blast for refusing to foot the huge bill. Shots fired!!!

Our sources say Randall Emmett, who is joining the show this year -- along with his company Emmett Furla Films and 310 Nutrition -- stepped in and dropped about $50,000 to throw his new cast members a lavish party complete with tons of food and an open bar.

Randall's engaged to "Vanderpump Rules" star Lala Kent, and he just produced "The Irishman."

MAKIN' SOME NOISE
TMZ.com

Too Short even showed up for a short set thanks to David Weintraub Entertainment. ... we're told the two are super close.

Seems Randall's already endearing himself to the cast -- money and famous friends will do the trick. Lisa certainly likes him, a lot more than she likes those cheapskates at Bravo.

Originally published -- 12:30 AM PT

'Mob Wives' Star Drita D'Avanzo Husband Charged in Massive Weed Bust

"Mob Wives" star Drita D'Avanzo's husband just got swept up in a huge weed sting operation in New Jersey ... and he's facing two new drug charges.

Prosecutors in Jersey say they are charging Drita's hubby, Lee D'Avanzo, with fourth-degree conspiracy to possess marijuana and fourth-degree possession of marijuana in excess of 50 grams.

Lee is one of 24 people arrested as part of a yearlong investigation by the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office Narcotics and Criminal Enterprise Unit. The sting, dubbed "Operation on The Ropes," uncovered what prosecutors say was a scheme to secretly convert legit candy, like Nerds Rope and Sour Patch, into illegal THC-infused products.

Authorities in Jersey say they executed over a dozen search warrants, resulting in the seizure of 21,000 packages of candy infused with suspected THC, plus another 1,100 lbs. of suspected marijuana and over 6,000 flavored THC vape cartridges.

All told ... officials say the drugs carried a street value of $1.9 million.

This is Lee's second round of drug charges in the past two months. As we reported, Lee and Drita were busted last month on a slew of guns and drug charges after NYPD raided their Staten Island home.

In that raid, cops said they uncovered two loaded firearms, 22 Xanax pills, 120 pills of hydrocodone/acetaminophen and a large amount of ganja.

'Ink Master' Star Oliver Peck Leaving Show Over Blackface Pics

"Ink Master" star Oliver Peck is packing up his tools and saying goodbye to the show in the fallout after his blackface scandal ... TMZ has learned.

Peck says his exit is a mutual decision, telling us ... "After filming 13 great seasons of Ink Master, the producers and I have decided it’s best to part ways." He also acknowledged the blackface pics, saying, "The offensive photos of me which recently surfaced from many years ago can only be a distraction to the amazing show I have loved being a part of and its many talented artists."

He ended on a conciliatory note, saying ... "I want to thank the show’s cast, crew, contestants and awesome fans. It’s been a blast and an honor and I wish my friends and colleagues the very best in whatever the future holds." He's been on as a judge since 2012.

Peck's now ex-employers at Paramount Network also denounced the scandal, saying ... "We, like many others, were appalled when we saw the photos of Oliver. We were glad to see his apology and accept that he is taking full responsibility for the damaging impact of his actions."

'Bachelor' Peter Weber Kissing Victoria F in Hometown ... Despite 'WLM' Controversy

HOMETOWN HANGIN'
TMZ.com

'Bachelor' Nation might do a double-take at this -- one of the Victorias from this week's premiere went quite a ways with Peter Weber ... but probably not the one you thought.

The pilot stud was recently spotted hand-in-hand with contestant Victoria Fuller, who made her debut to the show during Monday night's episode kicking off the 24th season, to mixed reviews. Welp, it looks like she stayed in the game long enough for hometowns.

TMZ obtained video taken from this past October showing Peter walking along with the 25-year-old Medical Sales Rep and former model. We're told this was shot in Victoria's stomping grounds of Virginia Beach ... which means she was one of the last 4 girls.

Funny enough, a ton of fans seemed to think Victoria P would actually be one of the final four. It's possible she still is, but we know for sure VF went the distance herself.

Now, in the clip, you see the pair walking their dog, whom we're told is hers and is named Buxton. Later, you see them embracing in a kiss after a live band plays at a bar called The Shack. Clearly, VF left her mark ... even though she comes with some controversy.

As soon as Monday's episode aired, old modeling photos of Victoria F circulated ... showin' her rocking gear for a White Lives Matter campaign on behalf of the White Marlin Marina.  Fact is ... this White Lives Matter is designed to bring awareness to conservation of marlins.

'Bachelor' Peter Weber I Just Gotta Fly

Buckle up
@adamglyn

'Bachelor' star Peter Weber vows not to get trapped by Hollywood's grip after his season airs ... cause flying's the only way he wants to be close to the stars.

Pilot Pete was out Monday morning on his way to "Good Morning America" when he was asked whether he was going to try and parlay his newfound fame into a career in Hollywood or keep piloting.

Pete's answer is pretty refreshing ... considering how MANY of the 'Bachelor' alums do everything they can to stay relevant. There's this guy, this guy and ESPECIALLY this guy.

The 'Bachelor's' 24th season kicks off Monday ... and Pete's already suggesting there might be some turbulence. Can't wait.

'RHOA' Star Cynthia Bailey Poses in Wedding Dress w/ Fiance ... Before Oct. Ceremony

Cynthia Bailey and her FOX Sports fiance are getting a taste of a dress and tux to come months before they officially say "I do" ... and the photo-op appears to be an official celebration of their engagement.

The 'RHOA' star was seen doing a photo shoot Sunday with Mike Hill outside the J.W. Marriott Essex House Hotel in NYC, where they were rocking pretty standard wedding attire ... especially, Cynthia who seemed to be wearing a bride's dress or something like it.

Some folks might think they've already tied the knot -- despite announcing their wedding ceremony for later this year in October -- but it's possible this is simply for a formal engagement photo spread ... assuming they didn't get ahead of their own plans.

Lisa Vanderpump Ferrari Rams Her Restaurant ... Hubby Says It Happens

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN
TMZ.com
UPDATE

4:04 PM PT -- Law enforcement sources now seem to be confirming what Ken told us ... that the guy was allegedly cut off in traffic, which caused him to lose control and slam into the restaurant.

UPDATE

3:26 PM PT -- TMZ just spoke with Lisa's husband, Ken Todd, after the car crash, and he was actually in pretty good spirits ... all things considered.

UPDATE

Ken tells us that he'd spoken to the driver -- the guy in the white shirt -- and apparently, the dude claimed he'd been cut off in traffic and accidentally swerved into their patio. We asked if he was pissed, and surprisingly ... Ken's not! He says these things happen ... c'est la vie.

UPDATE

Definitely a great attitude to have after such a shocking event. Not only that, but Ken says he's going to keep the restaurant open for the rest of the day and seal off the patio area as it gets worked on. He also tells us one lady got slightly cut up on her arm, but other than that ... no major injuries, thankfully.

UPDATE
AFTER THE CRASH
TMZ.com
UPDATE

Check out what he says when we ask how Lisa's taking the news ... sounds like she might be a bit more panicked than her hubby. As for the driver of the Ferrari, he was busy talking to cops, and later ... we saw him pull the vehicle out and drive off. It still worked!

UPDATE

We're working on identifying the guy, but it seems the matter's being handled by the appropriate parties.

UPDATE

2:38 PM PT -- We're being told by law enforcement officials familiar with the investigation that the accident doesn't appear to have damaged the structure of the building -- the wreck just tore through Lisa's restaurant patio. Cops also say drugs and booze don't appear to be a factor here.

UPDATE

2:28 PM PT -- Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... the Ferrari was apparently trying to make a left turn on one of the surrounding streets, but clearly ... he lost control. We're told one person thus far has been transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Lisa Vanderpump's restaurant got greeted with a sports car that came smashing through the front doors ... which left shattered glass and a chaotic scene behind.

The accident went down Sunday at the reality star's place of business in West Hollywood -- it's called Pump, and it's a restaurant, garden and a lounge. Somehow, a silver Ferrari jumped the curb and smashed through the patio seating area into the building itself.

Mama June & Geno Booted From Georgia Hotel ... Over Unpaid $2k Bill

Mama June and her boyfriend, Geno, are keeping their nomadic lifestyle alive and well -- 'cause they just got kicked out of one hotel ... and are on their way to another.

Sources tell TMZ ... MJ has been renting a couple different rooms for herself, Geno and some friends at the Residence Inn Marriott in McDonough, GA since around Thanksgiving time -- and recently, her tab started running up to the $2,000 mark ... which went unattended.

We're told on Saturday, the staff notified Mama June -- who's apparently been in and out, as we've seen her pop up elsewhere in the area -- it was time to pay up, but that she refused. Or rather, we're told she couldn't pay it off in full ... coming up shy a few hundred bucks.

Our sources say Mama June and co. were told they had to scram ... and, apparently, announced they were heading to another joint down the street. We're also told the rooms were a mess, but have since been cleaned. Unclear if there was as much damage as there was at the FairBridge Inn & Suites, where we're told they recently crashed at ... allegedly leaving a room in ruins after a fight.

Of course, this is just the latest chapter in Mama June's spiraling story since she first linked up with this guy, whom her family really, REALLY wants out of her life.

Doesn't look like she's ditching him just yet though. Until next time, we suppose ...

Nikki Bella I'm Marrying My 'DWTS' Partner!! After John Cena Breakup

Nikki Bella has found her forever dance partner ... 'cause the ex-WWE superstar and Artem Chigvintsev are getting HITCHED!!!

The couple broke the news on Friday, saying they got engaged a few months ago after a romantic trip to France ... but just now decided to take it public.

"I said yes in France in November!" Bella said on social media. "We have been trying to keep it a secret but really wanted to share our excitement for the New Year!"

Of course, Bella was famously engaged to John Cena ... and they were together for 6 years before a very public breakup in 2018.

Cena tried like hell to win Nikki back shortly after the fallout ... but she slammed the door on that relationship and began dating Chigvintsev in 2019.

Bella and the "Dancing with the Stars" pro were paired up on the show back in 2017 ... before they were eventually eliminated in the 7th show of the season.

Artem also posted about the engagement ... saying, "You are the best thing that has ever happened to me . So excited for what’s to come I love you more then anything and thank you for saying Yes."

As for Cena, don't feel too bad -- he's moved on too with Shay Shariatzadeh ... and they've been spotted making out with each other all over the place, including airports!

'RHOC' Star Kelly Dodd I Don't Get The Hate ... Over Photo With Trumps

WHAT'S THE PROBLEM?
TMZ.com

Kelly Dodd is unsure why folks on the Internet are so triggered by her photo with Donald Trump's sons ... saying all Americans need to embrace people with different views.

The 'Real Housewives of Orange County' star joined us on "TMZ Live" Thursday, defending her decision to snap a photo alongside Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump and questioning why it's got people in such a huff.

Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.

Kelly was in Florida for the wedding of Fox News personality Jesse Watters and Emma DiGiovine.

As you know ... Kelly's getting dragged on social media for rubbing elbows with the President's sons -- and DTJ's GF, Kimberly Guilfoyle, at a wedding in Florida.

Kelly tells us she didn't give much thought to taking a pic with Don Jr. and Eric -- she just thought it would be cool -- and adds she's been blindsided by the backlash.

Look, Kelly's not the first person to get slammed for associating with the Trumps or the GOP these days ... and she thinks the outrage is totally un-American, for a number of reasons.

It's a pretty interesting conversation ... and Kelly even borrows one of Trump's favorite lines to explain her position.

Teresa Giudice Joe Made Me Sign a Prenup ... I Added No-Cheating Clause

Teresa Giudice's marriage to Joe apparently got off on the wrong foot 20 years ago ... because she claims he forced her to sign a prenup.

"The Real Housewives of New Jersey" star made the revelation on Wednesday night's episode as she and her husband had a heated argument over the phone ... while Joe was in ICE custody.

Teresa shouted, "You made me sign a prenup, okay?" and later claimed in a confessional he asked her to sign it a week before they tied the knot ... much to her dismay. She said, "I just felt when you love someone, you don't do that."

Teresa went on to say she considered calling off the wedding over it, but decided instead to sign the prenup under one condition -- she made him add a clause stating if he ever cheated ... the prenup was off.

Bride and Prejudice' Micah Downey Dead at 26

The American star of the Australian reality show, "Bride and Prejudice," is dead.

26-year-old Micah Downey died suddenly Saturday -- it appears he died in the U.S. The cause of death has not been revealed.

Micah was engaged to Milly Johnson. The premise of the show is following couples planning on tying the knot when their families disapprove.

As for Micah and Milly, she's pregnant with their second child but said back in November they had broken up. There were reports -- unconfirmed -- that the relationship fell apart because of his alleged drug addiction.

Milly posted, "It is so sad & unbelievably surreal that i am making this post ... I am struggling to put into words how sad & heartbreaking this is. I just hope he is at peace wherever he is & that he will always be watching over his babies."

She ended by writing, "A bad, bad dream ... I can't believe you're not here. Rest in Peace, Micah."

RIP

'Storage Wars' Darrell Sheets Retires The Biz, Finds Love at 61 She Really Floats His Boat

"Storage Wars" star Darrell Sheets is finally ready to settle down after getting out of the storage locker biz ... and he might've found his one true love when he least expected.

Darrell tells TMZ ... after recently retiring to Lake Havasu, he went to check out a boat for sale and that's when he met a woman named Patty Rich. Turns out, the boat was hers and they've been inseparable ever since.

Sounds like Patty is quite a catch ... Darrell tells us his she owns a string of vineyards and restaurants. Add in the boat and her classic blonde looks, and it's easy to see why Darrell fell head over heels.

Darrell says Patty wasn't starstruck when they first met, she actually had no idea he was a celeb. She's well aware of his TV fame now though, and Darrell says it's been great to have a companion now that he's in his 60s.

Retirement and Patty are treating Darrell well, but he says he would be open to going back to work on "Storage Wars" if the show ever gets started back up. Don't hold your breath -- we're told there are no current plans to bring back the series.

'My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding' Twins Made Suicide Pact After Cancer Diagnosis ... Says Family Member

UPDATE

7:11 AM PT -- 12/30 -- According to a report, the brothers created a suicide pact after Joe was diagnosed with cancer. The brother's cousin, Phoebe Charleen Smith, told the Telegraph, "Joey had cancer, and Billy told him "I'd never be able to live without you."

UPDATE

She continued, "Joey told the family he got the all-clear after chemo two months ago, but we don't know if that's true now."

Twin brothers who starred in TLC's "My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding" are dead after an apparent joint suicide.

The 32-year-old siblings, Bill and Joe Smith, were found hanging in a tree in Sevenoaks, England ... this according to law enforcement.

"Celebrity Big Brother" winner Paddy Doherty confirmed the news on Facebook, calling it a "terrible, terrible tragedy," adding, "I'm very sorry for their troubles from the bottom of my heart. May God look after them, may God have mercy on them, they are two angels, harmless, they were unbelievable."

THE TWINS IN THEIR PRIME
Channel 4 / Firecracker Films

Bill and Joe starred in the 3rd season of the hit show. When they started they were 24 years old and working as gardeners.

"My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding" followed the lives of and traditions of Irish traveler families for 3 seasons from 2011 to 2015.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths, but cops seem confident they were suicides.

Originally Published -- 7:07 AM PT 12/29

Mama June & Geno Allegedly Trashed Hotel Room ... Shattered Glass, Cops Called to Scene

Mama June and her boyfriend, Geno Doak, left a filthy, bloody mess behind at a Georgia hotel ... and the incontrovertible evidence consists of photos allegedly snapped after they left.

Sources with direct knowledge tell TMZ ... June and Geno have been bouncing around hotels south of Atlanta, and were shacked up at a FairBridge Inn & Suites a couple months back when they had a fiery argument and trashed their room.

We know cops were called to the hotel for a disturbance, but law enforcement tells us no report was filed and there were no arrests.

Based on the pics, their hotel room was completely wrecked after they split -- broken TV and lamp, garbage strewn about ... and a shattered mirror with what looks like a bloody handprint on it. Some $20 bills ripped to pieces for some reason also appear to have been left behind.

Our sources say, all in all, Mama and her man did $1,000 in damages. We've reached out to the hotel to see how the matter was settled, but we're told the place is under new management ... so nobody knows.

We also reached out to June ... no word back yet.

As you know ... the troubled reality TV star has been living outta hotels with Geno since unloading her Hampton, GA home for $100,000 cash earlier this year. When we last saw them together, they were hitting up a casino in North Carolina on Black Friday ... not looking particularly lucky.

Kris Jenner I Got a Big Surprise Afoot!!!

Kris Jenner may have cleverly blown the lid off the latest version of Yeezys.

KJ was tooling around St. Barts Thursday ... looking super chic in all black. Now, check out the kicks ... sure looks like the latest Yeezy prototype.

Kanye West was seen earlier this year wearing a similar design to Kris' shoes. We're told the newest version will go for around $220 a pop.

It's unclear if the male and female versions will be the same. Kris' shoes seem to be a low-ankle version of what Ye was wearing.

There have been 2 recent Yeezy releases -- 2 versions of Yeezy Boost 350 ... Yeezreel and Yecheil. They go for $200 but they're hot items and are being resold for north of $300.

The Yeezy franchise is expected to rake in $1.5 billion in sales in 2019. It's closing in on the Jordan sneakers, which pull in around $3 bil.

Not bad for a company a lot of people thought would go belly up.

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