Big Boy Honored To Be Part Of Tupac's WOF ... I Knew Him IRL!!!

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Big Boy says emceeing Tupac Shakur's Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony is a full-circle moment for him, considering he spent time with the hip hop icon when he was alive and thriving.

TMZ Hip Hop caught up with the radio legend right after the event let out Wednesday, telling us he was floored when they called him to lead the charge. BB set the alley-oop for Tupac's sister Sekyiwa Shakur's touching and tearful address to the jam-packed crowd.

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FULFILLING HIS DREAM

With over 30 years in radio, BB says he was able to hit the road on tour with Tupac and was able to support once he got on-air.

He's so indebted to him, we couldn't get him to pick a winner between Pac's classic albums "Me Against the World" and "All Eyez on Me" ... but he's urging fans who disliked the 'All Eyez' film to give it another chance!!!

We also ran into Nipsey Hussle's good friend Herman “Cowboy” Douglas, who thinks it's a fitting honor that Pac's star landed so close to Nipsey's — not the other way around.

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TWO LEGENDARY STARS

Cowboy thinks Nipsey's impact in Los Angeles ranks greater than Pac's, bias be damned.

One thing's for sure ... the West Coast has no shortage of rap legends!!!

NFL Star Justin Simmons Gets Custom Cleats Honoring Late Dad Sweet Gift From Teammate

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Broncos defensive back P.J. Locke is one helluva teammate ... 'cause TMZ Sports has learned he gifted Justin Simmons some custom cleats to help the star honor his late dad.

If you weren't aware, Simmons tragically lost his father in April ... and he said he was absolutely heartbroken over the passing, writing on his social media page that the two were super close.

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We're told Locke, one of Simmons' best buds on the Broncos, immediately looked for a way to cheer up the 29-year-old after hearing the devastating news ... and hit up local Denver artist Breanna Berry about possibly making some tribute spikes for Simmons.

Turns out, Berry was all-in on the idea, and got to work right away.

The cleat artist spent five hours painstakingly designing the shoes ... putting a portrait of Simmons' dad, Victor, on one of them ... while wrapping them both in Broncos blue and orange colors.

She also made sure to paint on the cleats the phrases "I love you" ... and, "Any man can be a father but it takes some special to be a dad" -- a line that Simmons wrote in his emotional Instagram post to his father in April.

The finished product came out great ... and we're told Simmons was able to get his hands on them earlier this week.

Simmons -- a former third-round pick out of Boston College -- tied for the most interceptions in the league last season with six ... and with the new cleats possibly on his feet this year, it's probably safe to expect an even better performance in 2023.

Amazing Jungle Survival 4 Kids Found Alive After 40 Days in Amazon!!!

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Hollywood needs to look no further than this real-life drama -- 4 young siblings, including a baby, are alive after 40 days in Colombia's jungle ... and that's after they survived a plane crash!

The extensive search and rescue mission, conducted by Colombian authorities for more than a month, came to a joyous conclusion when soldiers found the kids -- ages 13, 9, 4, and 11 months -- alive, but in "weak" condition. Combat medics are treating them, and they're all expected to recover.

Dramatic images of the rescue show the soldiers posing for photos with the children, who were swaddled in thermal blankets. The rescuers used winch line to load the youngsters into a helicopter, which whisked them to safety.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro held a news conference to commend the children on their survival skills, calling their saga historic.

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AMAZING AMAZON RESCUE

This saga all started in the wee hours of May 1, when a small plane carrying six passengers and a pilot crashed after engine failure. Two weeks later, a team of searchers discovered the plane wreckage and bodies of the 3 adults who were on board, but the kids were MIA.

The Colombian army with the help of dogs and Indigenous tribe volunteers continued their hunt for the children ... hoping they'd found a way to stay alive. During the search, soldiers dropped boxes of food from helicopters into the forest, which might have allowed the kids to sustain themselves for so long.

Police have yet to release any details on how they managed to survive -- but it's gonna be one hell of a tale.

'Breaking Bad' Mike Batayeh Dead at 52

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Actor and comedian, Mike Batayeh, who "Breaking Bad" fans came to know as the manager at Gustavo's infamous laundromat has died ... TMZ has learned.

Mike's family tells us Batayeh died June 1 in his sleep of a heart attack while home in Michigan. His sister Diane says his death was very sudden, as he didn't have a history of heart issues.

A family statement about his passing reads, "He will be greatly missed by those who loved him and his great ability to bring laughter and joy to so many."

Mike appeared on 3 episodes from 2011 to 2012 on the award-winning AMC hit as Dennis Markowski, the manager of Lavandería Brillante industrial laundromat.

The laundromat, owned by Gustavo Fring served as a disguise for the meth lab where Bryan Cranston's Walter White and Aaron Paul's Jesse Pinkman turned out tons of product.

Apart from his work on "Breaking Bad," Mike was a successful comedian, traveling the globe and did voicework as well as made appearances on "The Bernie Mac Show," "Boy Meets World" and "CSI: Miami."

Mike is survived by 5 sisters, and tons of nephews and nieces ... we're told everyone is devastated.

He was only 52.

RIP

DMX Tributes 🕊 Swizz Beatz Unearths 1st Apollo Set ... Son Plays 'RR Anthem' On Piano!!!

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DMX's loved ones are feeling his presence this week, and feeling compelled to keep his musical legacy alive!!!

On Friday, Swizz Beatz proved he was coming around to loving X's signature song, "Ruff Ryders' Anthem" again ... by sharing rare footage of the late rap megastar's first-ever show inside Harlem's famed Apollo Theater!!!

Swizz has openly admitted "Ruff Ryders' Anthem" brings him to tears more than any other DMX song.

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In the footage, dated sometime in 1998, a nimble and energetic X rips through "Ruff Ryders' Anthem," his "It's Dark & Hell is Hot" intro ... and is supported in the background by Ruff Ryders' founders Joaquin and Darin Dean, Swizz and Murder Inc. CEO Irv Gotti.

Not to be outdone, X's six-year-old son Exodus flexed his inherited musical talent and played the opening to "Ruff Ryders' Anthem" on his piano.

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Swizz crafted the beat 24 years ago and it's still crossing generational lines!!!

Takeoff's Mom Files Wrongful Death Suit Against Houston Venue Where He Was Shot & Killed

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UPDATE

8:29 AM PT -- Drew Findling, the attorney representing Takeoff's mother, tells TMZ ... "Along with Atlanta attorneys Pete Law and Mike Moran (as Georgia attorneys we will be filing the requisite paperwork to be admitted pro hac vice in this case) and Houston attorney Ron Estefan, it is our honor to represent Ms. Titania Davenport in bringing this necessary lawsuit."

UPDATE

"With great specifics, the petition lays out the reasons for the filing of this lawsuit. Kirshnik was a gentle soul, whose loving nature and incredible musical talents made him not only beloved by his family and friends, but by his fans throughout the world. He is sorely missed, and we are committed to vigorously fighting on behalf of his memory and his loving mother."

Takeoff's mother Titania Davenport has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Houston venue where the Migos rapper was shot and killed on November 1.

According to the court docs, obtained by TMZ Hip Hop, Davenport claims the companies behind 810 Billiards & Bowling failed to take appropriate security measures to protect guests at the venue ... including her son, Takeoff.

The suit, filed Wednesday in Harris County, Texas also cites the lack of security prechecks while knowing Takeoff's celebrity would draw a huge crowd.

Patrick Xavier Clark, the man police say fired the fatal shot that killed the 28-year-old, isn't named in the suit ... but Davenport alleges 810 should have known there was a risk of violence based on past incidents on the premises and the crime in the surrounding area.

Takeoff had a huge memorial service inside State Farm Arena in his hometown Atlanta and the suit is seeking over a million dollars in damages to cover his funeral expenses, mental anguish, and more.

Rolling Stone was the first to report on Takeoff's mother's lawsuit.

Originally Published -- Friday, June 9 8:35 AM PT

Shark Attack Authorities Capture & Kill Shark Responsible for Killing Man

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Authorities believe they've captured the tiger shark responsible for attacking and killing a Russian man in Egypt.

Videos popped up late Thursday showing the massive animal brought to shore by heavy-duty nets ... with several boats used in the effort.

A statement from the Ministry of Environment confirmed they caught the shark, though beaches are to remain closed until Sunday to make sure nothing similar happens.

The Ministry noted the shark stayed in the area following the attack, near the surface of the water ... though it's unclear how long it took to capture and kill.

As we reported, terrifying video of the attack hit the internet from the Egyptian Red Sea resort of Hurghada. In it, you can see a man, now identified as 23-year-old Vladimir Popov screaming and fighting for his life as the shark continues to attack.

Helpless onlookers could only watch as Popov was thrown about by the shark, at one point completely bringing his legs above the water in a handstand position. Finally, it appears the shark grabbed him by the upper torso before Popov disappeared under the surface.

Bill Murray and Kelis Reportedly Dating After Chillin' at Her Shows

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Bill Murray and Kelis are apparently Hollywood's newest couple ... at least according to a new report that says the two are dating.

The veteran actor and "Milkshake" singer recently started hitting it off -- according to the US Sun -- which reports they've been hanging out a lot together, both in the United States and across the pond.

While it may sound like an unlikely pairing at first glance, 72-year-old Bill recently took in a couple of 43-year-old Kelis' shows in London ... posing for a backstage photo together after at least one of the gigs.

Not only that, they were reportedly also seen at the same London hotel, and have been getting close since linking up stateside.

There is a common bond between them, though it's not exactly cheery ... Kelis' second husband died in March 2022 and Bill's estranged wife died in 2021, and that's one of the things they reportedly bonded over.

It doesn't sound like Bill and Kelis are putting labels on their situation ... the outlet cited a friend as saying, "Whatever it is that has brought them together, and however unlikely it seems, they are both single and are having fun despite the fairly big age gap."

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BILL CAME TO THE YARD

We reached out to reps for both Bill and Kelis ... so far no word back.

Shark Attack Horrifying Video Shows Man's Final Moments Brutal Attack Off Egyptian Coast

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A shocking video captured the last moments of a man swimming in Egypt's Red Sea as a vicious shark attack unfolded in front of horrified onlookers.

The clip, which we're not showing because it's just that graphic, began circulating online Thursday from the resort city of Hurghada. You can see a man treading water, as a shark continues to attack him ... biting him several times. At one point, the shark pulls the man upside down, forcing both of his legs above the surface in a headstand formation.

The woman recording can do nothing but gasp, as the man screams out in pain for help.

Finally, in what appears to be one final strike ... the shark pounces on the man's upper torso and takes him under the surface.

A statement from Egypt's Ministry of Environment stated it's believed the attack was from a tiger shark, and the man died from his injuries.

As a result of the attack, a massive stretch of the beach has been closed until at least Sunday.

Karel 'Twisten' Asenbrener Esports Star Dead At 19 ... After 'Good Night' Tweet

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Esports star Karel Asenbrener -- famously known as "Twisten" -- died at 19 years old on Tuesday ... shortly after he posted a chilling tweet that read nothing more than "Good night."

Twisten's gaming org, Team Vitality, made the heartbreaking announcement on Wednesday ... saying its "deeply saddened" by the "devastating loss" of its star.

"Our first thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends in this difficult time," the French esports team wrote in a statement. "Rest in peace Karel."

One of the organization's coaches, Harry "Gorilla" Mepham, said in a tweet that Asenbrener had died by suicide.

"Words can not describe the grief or emptiness i’m feeling right now," Mepham said. "I loved him and forever will."

In its announcement of Asenbrener's passing, Team Vitality also shared a tweet encouraging anyone struggling with mental health to reach out for help.

Asenbrener had previously opened up about a battle with depression back in February ... but the "Valorant" player said he had gotten into a better place after spending time at a mental health hospital.

"After that I had a new fresh start and was able to thankfully get my s*** together," Asenbrener wrote.

"It was hardest time for me as a person and as a professional esport athlete. But after that time I knew why I'm playing games and what my team means to me."

He added at the time, "Take care of yourself and if you're experiencing something like I did, dont be scared to reach out to your close friends, to your family or your team."

According to Escorenews, the Czech player last competed on May 25 ... and earned $10,000 in his gaming career.

RIP

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

'Power Rangers' Jason David Frank Karate School Sued By Landlord ... Over Months Of Unpaid Rent

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The late "Power Rangers" star Jason David Frank's karate school has allegedly fallen way behind in rent since his death ... and now the landlord is taking the school to court.

According to the docs, obtained by TMZ, Jason's Rising Sun Karate in Valencia, CA is getting sued by Valencia Marketplace, the shopping mall where the dojo's located. The suit claims Jason and co. are tenants under a couple of leases -- the original of which dates back to around 1998.

The problem, according to the docs, is that Rising Sun stopped paying rent around November and December 2022 -- you'll recall, Jason died on November 19, 2022. Valencia Marketplace says it served the company a written notice of its running balance that was owed back in March, but says the balance was never paid.

The shopping mall's now seeking a whopping $47,347 in unpaid rent from Rising Sun Karate.

TMZ broke the story, Jason died by suicide last year ... and we learned Jason's karate spot was leaving its doors open after his death, with co-founder Sam Sprague keeping his legacy alive by continuing to pass along his teachings.

DC Young Fly Breaks Silence on Jacky Oh!'s Death 'Greatest Mother I Know'

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DC Young Fly is breaking his silence on the death of his longtime partner, Jacky Oh!, calling her the greatest mother he's ever known ... and promising to tell their kids how amazing she was for the rest of their lives.

DC took to Instagram, posting a series of photos of their family, and writing, "I wasn’t in no rush to post this because I wanted it to be a dream so bad but every hour I’m reminded of realty so I wanna make sure I applaud you in the proper manner."

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He says, "You are the GREATEST MOTHER I KNOW your soul was beautiful Yu always wanted the best for others and I admired how our family love each other!!! Never had to worry about our kids loving each other cause you were on top of Dat!!!"

DC also shared some details of the couple's last convo, revealing he said he'd pray for her -- though it's not exactly clear why he felt the need to do so.

He continues, "LOVE YOU FOREVER jus know we goinn harder than ever and GOD is in control and he got us covered."

TMZ broke the story, Jacky died in Miami last week.

While her cause of death is currently unclear, online reports said she was in the city for some sort of "Mommy Makeover" cosmetic procedure.

We discussed Jacky's passing in a recent episode of The TMZ Podcast, available on all podcast platforms.

Adam DeVine Murder at My Neighbor's Party ... Wife and I Were Nearby!!!

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Adam DeVine has a horrifying story to tell about a poker party turning tragic in the Hollywood Hills -- a man was shot and killed, with Adam and his wife just across the street.

The "Pitch Perfect" star shared his experience during a live taping of the "This Is Important" podcast Wednesday night with his "Workaholics" costars Blake Anderson, Anders Holm, and Kyle Newacheck -- and it might not have been the best setting for such a serious tale.

Adam says he was chillin' on a balcony at home with his wife Chloe Bridges when the murder happened just across the way from him, leaving him in shock.

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THE SHOCKING STORY

Adam says he called it, too -- believing some "dastardly s***" was happening at the boujee poker party. Of course, the podcast hosts and crowd still found the ordeal a little funny, with Blake punching up the story with sound effects. Actually, it seems like the crowd thought Adam was doing a bit.

He didn't get into specifics about the crime, but KTLA reported 39-year-old Emil Lahaziel was gunned down just after 2 AM Wednesday morning at a Hollywood Hills poker party.

It's unclear if Adam actually witnessed the shooting ... if he did, he left that part out.

Investigators think Lahaziel was involved in an argument on the property's driveway when the suspect pulled out the gun and shot him ... but the suspect hasn't been found yet.

Christian Evangelist Pat Robertson Dead At 93

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Pat Robertson, the legendary Christian philanthropist and radio broadcaster who once ran for President, has died.

According to a press release issued by the Christian Broadcasting Network ... Robertson passed away Thursday in his Virginia home as family gathered around him. His cause of death was not disclosed.

Robertson enjoyed a long illustrious career in TV, politics and religion. Decades ago, he first launched a small TV station and soon transformed himself into one of the most influential Christian commentators in the nation. He became known as both a religious leader and culture warrior.

Over the years, he founded the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), which was home to the immensely popular "The 700 Club." He also created the Christian Coalition, which was credited with helping bring American evangelicals to the modern Republican Party.

Robertson became a household name when he ran for the Republican presidential nomination in 1988, but lost to George H.W. Bush, who went on to become the commander in chief. Still, Robertson stayed close to politics, getting conservative Christians behind H.W.'s son, George W. Bush, and Donald Trump for their Presidential bids.

Robertson was 93.

Tupac Shakur Treach, Danny Boy Proud of His Hollywood 🌟 ... Share Classic Memories!!!

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NEVER OVER THE PAIN

Tupac Shakur would be pleased to know some of his running mates are among the hundreds of fans who turned out to see his Hollywood Walk of Fame Star cemented into history!!!

TMZ Hip Hop linked with Treach of Naughty By Nature and former Death Row singer Danny Boy ... who both recalled fond memories of the late rap megastar.

Treach and Tupac were often seen running together, and the "Hip Hop Hooray" rapper says he witnessed Pac accomplish more in 25 years than most people do in a lifetime!!!

We also picked Treach's brain about Pac's hypothetical reaction to seeing him play "Nino Brown" in the stage adaptation of "New Jack City" ... which brought a smirk across the New Jersey native's face.

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Treach, who was chilling with ex-Death Row artist K-Dubb at the ceremony, says Pac without a doubt used Nino to channel his unforgettable role as "Bishop" in the 1992 hip hop thriller "Juice" ... and would've loved to see his performance!!!

Danny Boy is currently eyeing his musical comeback and wishes he had some unreleased Pac vocals to add to his album, but does believe some unheard raps still exist.

He was joined by several Death Row producers such as LA Buck ... who also shared their love for Pac and cited an unforgettable studio session at Can-Am Studios as his most fond memory of the late legend.

Danny Boy says expect more celebrations this year, especially with Pac's birthday happening next week and Hip Hop's 50th anniversary approaching in August!!!

Sgt. Slaughter Emotional Over Iron Sheik's Death ... 'I Love You Forever'

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IT FUELED THE FIRE

"I love you, Sheik. I love you forever."

That's Sgt. Slaughter on the death of his rival turned stable partner, and most importantly close friend, The Iron Sheik ... who passed away at the age of 81 on Wednesday.

TMZ Sports talked to the WWE Hall of Famer about his friend's passing ... from Sheik's impact on the sport (and some of its biggest stars like Hulk Hogan) to how they met decades ago.

"I met [Sheik] when he was going through the training camp in Minnesota with Verne Gagne, along with Ric Flair," Slaughter explained, talking about his first interaction in the 1970s with the Iranian-born wrestler.

FYI, Gagne was a trainer and promoter who ran the Minneapolis-based American Wrestling Association (AWA).

Sgt. says he became fast friends with Sheik and the guys even worked together at his dad's roofing company.

The Iron Sheik was one of the greatest heels pro wrestling has ever seen and, although he was playing a character, fans take this seriously. We asked Slaughter if the hate ever got to Sheik.

"Never difficult [on Sheik]. It fueled the fire. It just fueled the fire," the HOF told us.

Slaughter also talked about Sheik's love for his family -- his wife and kids.

"He was a character. I was a character. But we both had families and we loved our families."

Tragically, Sheik lost one of his daughters in the early 2000s ... and despite missing his friend, Sgt. Slaughter, fighting back tears, says he's happy knowing he'll finally be reunited with his child.

"God bless him. He's finally gonna see his daughter that he lost. Love you Sheik. Love you forever."

We discussed The Iron Sheik's legacy in a recent episode of the Last Days Podcast, available on all podcast platforms.