Shad Gaspard Moving Memorial at Venice Beach
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Former WWE star Shad Gaspard was honored Friday during a sunset memorial at the site where he tragically died.
Shad's wife, Siliana, invited lots of friends and family, along with some of his many fans, to pay homage where the beloved star drowned last weekend, after heroically directing lifeguards to help his 10-year-old son out of the churning waters of Venice Beach. Shad's body was found 3 days later.
Shad was universally liked ... a genuinely good man who died a hero.
RIP
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Hana Kimura Wrestler, 'Terrace House' Star ... Dead At 22
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Japanese pro wrestler Hana Kimura -- a featured member of Netflix's hit show, "Terrace House" -- has died at age 22.
Stardom Wrestling confirmed Kimura's death on Friday ... saying "We are very sorry to report that our Hana Kimura has passed away."
"Please be respectful and allow some time for things to process, and keep your thoughts and prayers with her family and friends."
"We appreciate your support during this difficult time."
Kimura made her debut at Wrestle-1 and won her first title at the JWP Junior plate in 2016 ... and officially joined Stardom in 2019.
Kimura was famously a leader of the Tokyo Cyber Squad ... a fan favorite among Japanese wrestling fans.
Tokyo Cyber Squad! pic.twitter.com/KJhlgSnvXR
— We Are Stardom (@we_are_stardom) April 21, 2019 @we_are_stardom
Hana was a beloved character on "Terrace House" ... with many attaching themselves to her hopeless romantic character.
#RIP
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Jerry Sloan Legendary NBA Coach Dead at 78
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NBA Hall of Fame Coach Jerry Sloan -- who was a member of the Utah Jazz organization for more than 30 years -- has died.
Sloan died early Friday due to complications from Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia. The Jazz released a statement, saying, "Jerry Sloan will always be synonymous with the Utah Jazz. He will forever be a part of the Utah Jazz organization and we join his family, friends and fans in mourning his loss. We are so thankful for what he accomplished here in Utah and the decades of dedication, loyalty and tenacity he brought to our franchise."
Sloan was the head coach of the Jazz for 23 years with 1,223 wins, 20 trips to the playoffs and two NBA Finals appearances ... in which Sloan's teams lost to Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls.
Sloan's post-game presser after Michael Jordan's "Flu Game" was recently featured on ESPN's "The Last Dance" ... the coach claimed he didn't even know MJ was sick.
The team statement continues, "Like Stockton and Malone as players, Jerry Sloan epitomized the organization. He will be greatly missed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Tammy, the entire Sloan family and all who knew and loved him.”
Sloan worked for the Jazz organization for 34 years as either head coach, assistant, scout or senior basketball adviser.
Sloan was 78.
RIP
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Ahmaud Arbery Videographer William Bryan Confined Victim ... Charged with False Imprisonment, Murder
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7:20 AM PT -- Authorities say Bryan was cutting off Arbery while Travis and Gregory McMichael were chasing Ahmaud.
According to new docs, Bryan "did attempt to confine and detain Ahmaud Arbery without legal authority, by attempting to confine ..." adding, Bryan was "utilizing his vehicle on multiple occasions during the above time frame, with the intention of confining and detaining Arbery."
So, the felony is false imprisonment, and if such a felony results in someone's murder, that person can be charged with felony murder.
5:40 AM PT -- 5/22 -- TMZ has just obtained Roddie's mug shot.
3:21 PM PT -- Attorneys for Ahmaud's parents -- S. Lee Merritt, Benjamin Crump and L. Chris Stewart -- tell TMZ ... the family is relieved Bryan has been taken into custody.
The legal team says ... "We called for his arrest from the very beginning of this process. His involvement in the murder of Mr. Arbery was obvious to us, to many around the country and after their thorough investigation, it was clear to the GBI as well."
The lawyers say the family's "thankful for the diligence of the GBI and the way in which they tirelessly pursued the evidence in this case."
William "Roddie" Bryan, the man who recorded the video of Ahmaud Arbery's killing, is now the third suspect to be arrested for the young man's murder.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation just announced the arrest, saying Bryan's been hit with charges of felony murder and criminal attempt to commit false imprisonment.
The GBI says the charges stem from the February 23 incident that resulted in Arbery's death. Bryan will be booked into the Glynn County Jail.
As we reported ... Roddie claimed he was simply a witness to the slaying and had zero involvement with what went down between Arbery and the 2 men previously arrested for his murder -- Gregory and Travis McMichael.
Bryan said after his video leaked online that he was fearful for his life and was receiving death threats. The GBI said Bryan and his video were under investigation, and he was initially named in the police report for allegedly trying to block Ahmaud during the chase while he was jogging. Bryan denied any involvement, though.
As we told you ... Arbery's family and legal team strongly believed Bryan was involved in the incident, along with the McMichaels, and wants him to face justice.
Originally Published -- 3/21 3:06 PM PT
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'Ink Master' Star Daniel Silva Devastated By Corey La Barrie's Death ... Attorney Confident He's Not Guilty of Murder
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"Ink Master" star Daniel Silva is reeling from the fatal car crash that killed his friend, YouTube star Corey La Barrie ... according to his attorney, who's confident Daniel will beat a murder charge.
Sources close to Daniel tell TMZ ... Silva had been working hard all day leading up to the deadly crash, and showed up to Corey's birthday party totally sober. We're also told Daniel was only at the party for 2 hours, but was seen drinking White Claw hard seltzer.
We broke the story ... Daniel was arrested and charged with 2nd-degree murder after wrecking a black McLaren sports car earlier this month. Corey, his passenger in the car, died from injuries suffered in the crash. They had just left Corey's 25th birthday party.
Daniel's attorney, Mike Cavalluzzi, tells TMZ ... "This is a horrible tragedy and our hearts go out to Corey's family and friends. We are reviewing all of the evidence and will reserve comment for a later time. For now, it is most important that everyone involved is given time and space to grieve."
Remember ... our law enforcement sources say witnesses claim Silva allegedly tried to flee the scene but was stopped by bystanders. Witnesses also say Daniel was drinking before getting in the driver's seat, but he has NOT been charged with DUI.
We're told Cavalluzzi believes prosecutors will not be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt Daniel was driving drunk. He says the crash was nothing more than a horrible accident.
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Triple H Remembers Shad ... 'Great Human Being, Everyone Loved Him'
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"Shad was one of those guys that everybody loved."
That's Triple H telling TMZ Sports why the death of former WWE superstar Shad Gaspard is such a huge loss ... explaining, "He was just a great human being."
Of course, Shad began his relationship with WWE in 2002 when he tried out for the "Tough Enough 2" reality show.
He busted his ass and earned a WWE contract in 2005 -- eventually making the big stage in early 2006.
He ultimately parted ways with WWE in 2010 but Triple H says they had a good relationship ... and even chatted just a few months ago.
"Just the greatest guy," Triple H said ... "So nice."
The WWE exec also said the fact he died while trying to save his 10-year-old son "tells you everything you need to know about the guy."
Gaspard was declared missing on May 17 after he was caught in a riptide during a swim with his son in Marina del Rey.
Rescuers were able to pull his son out of the water, but they were unable to save Shad. His body was found on May 20.
Triple H says WWE honored Shad on Wednesday's 'NXT' show -- but he believes there will be another tribute on "Friday Night Smackdown."
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Shad Gaspard Wife Praises WWE Star ... 'He'll Always Be Our Superhero'
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7:50 AM PT -- 5/21 -- Shad Gaspard's wife, Siliana, just issued an emotional statement on the passing of her husband ... calling him "our protector, our warrior."
"Aryeh, myself and the Gaspard and Chittick families would like to take this time to thank everyone for their prayers and support, as we mourn the terrible loss of our beloved Shad," Siliana said.
"Shad was our whole world and we were his. There are not enough words to describe what he means to all of us. He was our heart, our soul, our protector, our warrior. He was a bright force of nature, who brought joy to many through his joyous and gracious nature."
"The outpouring of love from Shad’s friends, colleagues and fans has meant more to us than you can even imagine. We’d like to once again thank the lifeguards, coastguard, divers, fire and police departments for their efforts."
"Shad was and will always be our real life super hero."
3:19 PM PT -- 5/20 -- Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is grieving the loss of his fellow WWE Superstar ... calling Shad a "great guy" and saying "this is a tough one to process."
"My deepest condolences and love to Shad Gaspard’s wife, son and family," Johnson said on Instagram.
"Shad drowned in the ocean, but not before instructing lifeguards to save his 10yr old son first. That’s the love of a father."
"Love and light to Shad’s family. And your warrior spirit lives on through your son."
The L.A. County Coroner has identified the body found on L.A.'s Venice Beach as ex-WWE superstar Shad Gaspard ... TMZ Sports has learned.
The body was first seen on the beach by a citizen who called cops around 1:30 AM Wednesday ... according to our law enforcement sources. We're told officers responded and recovered the body right near Venice Pier.
A short time later, several people (we're told family members and close friends) gathered at the beach.
They were hugging, talking and crying. At one point, some of the people waded into the water.
The L.A. Fire Department held a news conference Wednesday morning, saying the body matches the description of Shad ... a 6'6" black male over 240 lbs.
UPDATE: officials confirm description of pro wrestler Shad Gaspard matches that of the body discovered after washing up on shore in Venice Beach. @FOXLA @GDLA @LACoLifeguards 💔 pic.twitter.com/1EGKkglcNf
— Mario Ramirez (@MarioFOXLA) May 20, 2020 @MarioFOXLA
As we first reported, he went missing on Sunday afternoon when a group of swimmers, including Shad and his son, Aryeh, got caught in a rip current south of the Pier.
Shad heroically told lifeguards to focus on getting his 10-year-old son to shore safely, but when they returned he'd gone under.
Police and Coast Guard boats and divers searched the rough water for nearly 2 days before suspending their efforts.
Shad loved hanging out at the beach, and less than 2 weeks ago he'd posted a heartwarming vid walking through the sand and surf with Aryeh. Shad wrote, "Love the life I built for my self and my family."
He was one-half of the popular WWE tag team, Cryme Time, along with his partner, JTG.
He was also a regular at the legendary Gold's Gym in Venice, and as we learned firsthand ... a truly great guy.
Shad is survived by his wife Siliana and their son.
He was 39.
RIP
Originally Published -- 5/20 6:38 AM PT
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Little Richard Rock 'n' Roll Legend Laid to Rest
Little Richard's family, friends and former band members gathered for the icon's graveside funeral -- a surprisingly low-key and private service for the legendary showman.
Little Richard, or Richard Wayne Penniman to those close to him, was buried Wednesday at the Oakwood University Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Huntsville, Alabama.
The trailblazing rock 'n' roll star's niece, opera singer Brandie Sutton, sang during his service. Dr. Carlton P. Byrd delivered a eulogy, and Richard's family spokesman David Person gave some closing remarks before he was laid to rest.
As we reported ... Little Richard died earlier this month at his Tennessee home, surrounded by his brother, sister and son. His bass guitarist, Charles Glenn, told us Richard had been sick for a couple months before he passed.
The singer, of course, is known for his enormous influence over the rock 'n' roll genre, with insanely popular hits like "Tutti-Frutti" and "Long Tall Sally." The Beatles have credited him as an inspiration, and Richard paved the way for acts like James Brown, The Rolling Stones and even Michael Jackson further down the road.
As for his connection to Huntsville, he attended Oakwood University and studied theology on campus after he'd already become a rising music star. He also recorded many of his hits in Alabama.
Little Richard was 87.
RIP
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'Ink Master' Star Daniel Silva Charged with Murder For Corey La Barrie's Death
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"Ink Master" star Daniel Silva is officially facing a murder charge for the fatal car crash that killed his friend, YouTube star Corey La Barrie ... TMZ has learned.
According to new legal docs ... the L.A. County D.A.'s Office says Silva "did unlawfully, and with malice aforethought" murder La Barrie. He's been hit with one felony count of second degree murder.
We broke the story ... Silva was arrested for murder after wrecking a black McLaren sports car earlier this month after leaving a party with La Barrie. We're told they were celebrating Corey's birthday ... he'd just turned 25.
Silva allegedly tried to flee, but was stopped by witnesses ... according to law enforcement sources. Photos from the scene show Silva being taken away on a stretcher and we're told he suffered a broken hip.
Witnesses said Silva was drinking before getting behind the wheel ... however, he has not been charged with DUI. La Barrie -- who was in the passenger seat -- died from his injuries at the hospital.
A bail amount of $2 million has been recommended for the "Ink Master" star.
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MLB's Starling Marte Wife Dies From Heart Attack ... 'Indescribable Pain'
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Tragic news ... MLB superstar Starling Marte says his wife died from a heart attack Monday.
"Today I go through the great pain of making public the unfortunate death of my wife Noelia," Marte wrote on social media. "It is a moment of indescribable pain."
Noelia was at a hospital awaiting surgery for a broken ankle when she suffered the heart attack, this according to MLB Network's Jon Heyman.
Other details surrounding the death were not released.
31-year-old Starling and Noelia had been married for several years ... and the couple had three children together, including two sons and a daughter.
"On behalf of my family," the Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder wrote, "I am grateful for the expressions of esteem and solidarity in this difficult time."
Marte's former team, the Pittsburgh Pirates, shared their condolences on Twitter ... writing, "The entire Pirates family extend our deepest condolences to Starling Marte and family during this terrible time. Our hearts are truly saddened by this news."
The D-Backs added, "We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Noelia Marte. Starling and his family are part of the D-backs’ family and we will do all we can to support him and their children during this incredibly difficult time."
Marte was traded from Pittsburgh to Arizona this offseason ... and was expected to compete for MVP votes in his first year with the Diamondbacks before the coronavirus pandemic suspended play.
#RIP
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Sean Reed Shooting Cop Shoulda Been Fired for 'Closed Casket' Jab ... So Says Reed Family
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The punishment doesn't fit the crime. That's what Sean Reed's family's saying about the cop who got suspended for his "closed casket" joke ... saying he deserved to be fired.
You'll recall the Indianapolis detective got suspended and reassigned after he was heard saying, "I think it's going to be a closed casket, homie" moments after Reed was fatally shot during an incident Reed streamed live on Facebook.
Well, the Reed family's furious over what they essentially say is a slap on the wrist. Sean's uncle, Tyrell Reed, tells TMZ ... he doesn't think the cop received a harsh enough punishment. In fact, Tyrell tells us, "I feel like [the detective] shouldn't be on the force or allowed to be a police officer."
What's more ... Tyrell says the detective's true colors came out with his distasteful joke, because he had no clue Reed's camera was still streaming live. Tyrell adds, "He thought he was doing things in the dark. Now, those words leave a mark on our family forever. I probably don't think his fellow officers appreciated the comment either."
Tyrell says the Reeds have been shaken to their core with the crack made by the detective, whose identity has not been disclosed because of safety concerns. For what it's worth ... Tyrell says things have slowly gotten better over the last few days, thanks to the overwhelming support the family's been receiving from friends and others in the community.
As we first reported ... Tyrell told us it's a terrible enough situation to have one of your family members shot and killed with a camera filming it ... even worse when a cop makes a quip that will be seared into their memories forever.
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'Twilight' Actor Gregory Tyree Boyce Dead at 30
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5:46 PM PT -- Gregory’s fam tells TMZ ... "We as family of Gregory Boyce are very saddened by our loss. He was a dad, son, grandson, brother, uncle, and friend. He was the light of all our lives and we are very saddened by his death."
The statement continues ... "The Gregory we knew was intimate with the world and a good person. He was a very respectful and responsible man. He always put others first. The family would like to ask for our privacy as we mourn our losses and thank you for your well wishes.”
4:38 PM PT -- Law enforcement sources tell us both Gregory and his girlfriend were found dead in their apartment. An unknown white powdery substance was allegedly also found at the scene.
Gregory Tyree Boyce -- one of the guys who was vying for Kristen Stewart's heart and attention in the first 'Twilight' movie has died ... TMZ has confirmed.
Boyce passed away last Wednesday in Las Vegas. An official cause of death is pending.
His mother, Lisa Wayne, confirmed the news on social media, writing ... "My baby boy, Greg Boyce was the best chef....oh man. He was in the process of starting a wing business, West Wings. He created the flavors to his perfection and named them after west coast rappers. Snoop Dog, Kendrick Lamar, Roddy Ricch, The Game, etc." She continued, "He had flavors like, Tequila Lime Agave...those were my favorite. A Hennessy Maple flavor, oh man, just so damn good. I can say that my son was my favorite chef. He was on to something great and that was his passion."
Waiting for your permission to load the Facebook Post.
She went on to remember in a lengthy, loving tribute, throwing up a logo for the business he had started.
As far as acting, Greg had only starred in two projects -- one was "Twilight" back in 2008, in which he played Tyler Crowley, and the other credit is for a short called "Apocalypse." In "Twilight," he's most memorable as the dude who almost hit Bella (Stewart) with his van.
At the last second, Robert Pattinson's character, Edward, jumps in the way and blocks the van with lightning speed and strength, leaving a huge indent on the vehicle.
Gregory was 30.
RIP
Originally published -- 3:53 PM PT
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Marc Maron IDK If I Should Say This ... Emotional Eulogy To Lynn Shelton
Marc Maron got super emotional remembering his late lover and creative partner, Lynn Shelton ... delivering a gut-wrenching eulogy through a cascade of tears.
The comic broke down crying Monday on his WTF podcast as he paid tribute to the famous writer and director who died suddenly Saturday from a blood disorder at age 54 .... describing Lynn's final days while choking back tears and openly grieving in front of millions of listeners.
Marc remembers Lynn as his partner, girlfriend, best friend and lover ... saying he never felt what he felt with her with anyone else, then looking back on all their good times -- cooking, laughing, playing Crazy Eights, traveling, writing.
MM then delves into her final days on this Earth ... explaining how their roller-coaster week went from fears of COVID-19 to negative tests, from strep throat treatments to blood tests, and then a sudden hallway collapse in the middle of the night leading to a frantic 911 call.
Marc touches on the last time he saw Lynn alive, and describes in great detail what her body endured in the hospital. He also sheds light on his final goodbye to the woman he called amazing and an inspiration to so many.
It's a very powerful and moving moment ... Marc explaining their relationship and why Lynn was beloved by all before rehashing the first time they ever met.
In the end, Marc offers one final reflection ... saying, "I don't even know if I should be out in public talking, but this is what I do."
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'Leave It To Beaver' Star Ken Osmond Dead at 76
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Ken Osmond -- famous for playing the smart-mouthed Eddie Haskell on the classic '50s family TV series "Leave It To Beaver" -- is dead ... TMZ has confirmed.
The actor died Monday at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by loved ones and family. His son, Eric, tells us, "He was an incredibly kind and wonderful father. He had his family gathered around him when he passed. He was loved and will be very missed."
Ken began his acting career when he was only 9 years old, but he got his big break in 1957 when he was cast as Eddie Haskell on 'Beaver' opposite Jerry Mathers, who played the title character.
The Haskell role was supposed to be a simple guest appearance, but Ken knocked it outta the park and his character became a series mainstay over 6 seasons and 234 episodes. As you know, Ken's portrayal of Eddie was iconic.
Osmond grew up in Glendale, CA and his first speaking role was in the movie "So Big." He also guest-starred on a ton of popular TV shows, including "Lassie," "Wagon Train, "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet," "The Loretta Young Show" and "Fury."
In 1970, Osmond joined the LAPD and was an officer until he retired in 1988. During one incident, he was shot at 5 times ... 4 of the bullets hit his bulletproof vest and the fifth ricocheted off his belt buckle.
Ken was typecast after 'Beaver,' but his other acting credits include appearances on "The Munsters" and "Petticoat Junction," plus feature films like "With Six You Get Eggroll" and "C'Mon Let's Live a Little."
Ken was 76.
RIP
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Ex-Dodger Carl Crawford Home Site of Double Drowning ... Woman And Boy Die
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Carl Crawford's home became the site of a double drowning Saturday when a woman and a boy she was watching landed in his pool ... TMZ has learned.
Sources connected to Carl tell us ... the ex-MLB star and current record label chief was hosting a small gathering of 6 people at his north Houston home. The guests included a woman and a young boy -- no more than 5 years old -- in her care for the day.
We're told, at one point while Carl was inside, the boy wandered off and fell into his swimming pool out back. The woman went in after him, but neither were able to exit the pool safely. Our sources say Carl tried reviving them the best he could on the spot, but was unsuccessful.
Paramedics arrived and tried life-saving measures themselves, but to no avail. We're told both have died.
The woman and boy were both unresponsive when taken by ambulance, per KHOU 11 ... which also captured some on-the-scene footage that appears to show Crawford talking to cops. For the record, gatherings of 10 or less are currently allowed in Houston under the stay-at-home order.
Originally published -- 6:28 PM PT
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'Scarface' Actor Geno Silva Dead at 72
Geno Silva, the "Scarface" actor who performed one of the greatest hits in a hit movie ... has died from complications related to dementia.
His "Scarface" role, where he played The Skull and forever silenced Tony Montana [for the youngins ... Al Pacino played him). It's one of the most memorable scenes in what may be the greatest movie ever made ... agree to disagree.
Geno did it all ... he starred on Broadway, movies and TV. Some of the TV credits -- "Miami Vice," "Star Trek: Enterprise and Alias," and "Key West."
As for his movie credits ... "Scarface" is definitely the most memorable, but there were many others. Geno was a true working actor.
Geno leaves behind a big family, including his wife, Pamela, daughter Lucia and 2 grandchildren. The Hollywood Reporter first reported the story.
The family asks that any donations be made to The Ass'n for Frontotemporal Dementia.
Geno was 72.
RIP