'Seinfeld' Actor Richard Herd Dead at 87 ... Played Mr. Wilhelm

Richard Herd -- who played George Costanza's Yankees boss on "Seinfeld" -- has died.

The veteran actor -- who's possibly best remembered as Mr. Wilhelm on the hit sitcom -- passed away Tuesday at his home in L.A. due to complications from cancer.

Herd only appeared on 11 episodes of "Seinfeld," but his time was memorable (and hilarious). He portrayed a (fake) New York Yankees executive who supervised George when he was the assistant to the traveling secretary, and would often give GC complicated tasks he'd fumble his way through completing (or not completing, more often).

Mr. Wilhelm eventually stole George's dream gig of scouting for the Mets ... a great farewell to his character.

Richard had many, many roles besides "Seinfeld," though -- he acted in huge films like "All the President's Men," "Get Out," "The China Syndrome," and "Planes, Trains and Automobiles."

On TV, he also appeared on "Simon & Simon," "Murder, She Wrote," "Quantum Leap," "SeaQuest 2032," "Dallas" and "Hart to Hart."

He's survived by his wife, Patricia, and his three children.

Richard was 87. RIP

Two-Faced Kitten 'Biscuits & Gravy' Janus Cat Dies ... 4 Days After Birth

A two-faced kitten who was born in Oregon this past week has died just four days later ... despite a hard-fought battle to pull through.

The rare feline phenom -- which is often referred to as a Janus cat -- was part of a litter of six kittens that popped out in Albany on Wednesday, and the owner, Kyla King, noticed one of them had two mugs on one giant head. She named the kitty Biscuits and Gravy.

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Kyla and her family documented B&G's development over the next few days, showing off their attempts to feed the kitten -- which proved incredibly difficult, on account of it being able to feed itself out of both faces -- as well as it playing and napping with its siblings.

The owners say Biscuit (its short name) was actually able to eat pretty decently, but he simply wouldn't grow ... and had trouble carrying its head, which was too big for its body.

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In the end, the cat died of natural causes -- with Kyla writing ... "This photo was taken about an hour before Biscuits died. Kyla gave up 3 1/2 days of her life to put all of her efforts into saving him. He was born with the longest of odds and by living nearly 4 days, he beat those odds."

She added, "We thank all of you who have been so kind, prayed, and wished the best for Biscuits and Gravy. So many of you care and wanted to follow his progress, and said some very nice things to and about us. We will never forget your kindness!"

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It's not uncommon for Janus cats like these to have short lifespans -- they simply have too many internal complications for prolonged good health. One exception though ... 15-year-old Frank and Louie, AKA Frankenlouie. He toughed it out for a long time, and died in 2014.

RIP

John Cena Possibly Secret Donor ... To Shad Gaspard's GoFundMe

Someone donated $40,000 to the family of the late WWE star Shad Gaspard ... and it's looking like the secret donor is none other than John Cena.

The family created a GoFundMe account for funeral and other expenses ... this after Shad tragically died last weekend off the Venice Beach shore. Lifeguards swam out to rescue Shad but he implored them to get his 10-year-old son first. They did, but when they came back Shad was gone -- swept out to sea. His body was found 3 days later.

Someone pledged a whopping $40,000. As for who, the person's identity was recorded as "CTC RIP."

Now the clues ...  CTC -- Cryme Tyme Cenation -- was a wrestling tag team comprised of Cena, Shad and JTG back in 2008. Cryme Tyme had existed before, but Cena joined -- though only for a short time. He suffered an injured early on and ended up dropping out, leaving Shad and JTG to continue their insanely popular tag team.

We're also told John and was extremely close to Shad and had commented to various people last week he wanted to do something for the family.

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Now check out the photo John just posted ... a car with the letter CTC emblazoned on the smashed whip. It looks like Cena and Shad are spray painting the car. The pic is clearly from a match ... you see fans all around.

BTW ... the amount raised so far is north of $100,000. Other wrestlers, including Chris Jericho, Tony Khan, Cody and Brandi Rhodes have contributed money.

Carl Crawford Breaks Silence on Double Drowning At His Houston Home

Carl Crawford is ready to talk about the double drowning that occurred at his home -- and his first words are ones of regret and remorse for the victims.

The former Dodger star turned record label executive took to social media this weekend to reflect on the fatal accident that took place at his crib in Houston a week ago, saying ... "My Hearts Heavy. The tragic events that occurred at my home will be with me forever. I'm at a loss for words I've struggled all week to manage my emotions and I keep thinking of the families of those who've passed and their grief, I know they have it the hardest."

He continued, "They are the first and last thing I think of these days. Please keep them in your prayers, I know they will always be in mine." He captioned his post with prayer hands.

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TMZ broke the story ... Crawford's home became the site of two drownings after a woman and child both fell into his pool and, ultimately, died. Carl tried resuscitating them himself, but was unsuccessful. Paramedics eventually arrived and transported the two victims, who were unresponsive.

The boy was no more than 5 years old, but the woman he was with was not his mother -- he was simply in her care for the day. Carl was hosting a small gathering that weekend.

RIP

Shad Gaspard Moving Memorial at Venice Beach

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

Hana Kimura Wrestler, 'Terrace House' Star ... Dead At 22

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.

Hana was a beloved character on "Terrace House" ... with many attaching themselves to her hopeless romantic character.

#RIP

Jerry Sloan Legendary NBA Coach Dead at 78

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

Ahmaud Arbery Videographer William Bryan Confined Victim ... Charged with False Imprisonment, Murder

UPDATE

7:20 AM PT -- Authorities say Bryan was cutting off Arbery while Travis and Gregory McMichael were chasing Ahmaud.

UPDATE

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."

UPDATE

So, the felony is false imprisonment, and if such a felony results in someone's murder, that person can be charged with felony murder.

UPDATE

5:40 AM PT -- 5/22 -- TMZ has just obtained Roddie's mug shot.

UPDATE

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.

UPDATE

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."

UPDATE

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.

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IN COLD BLOOD

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.

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TERRIFYING REPERCUSSIONS
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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

'Ink Master' Star Daniel Silva Devastated By Corey La Barrie's Death ... Attorney Confident He's Not Guilty of Murder

"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.

Triple H Remembers Shad ... 'Great Human Being, Everyone Loved Him'

ABSOLUTELY TRAGIC
TMZSports.com

"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."

Shad Gaspard Wife Praises WWE Star ... 'He'll Always Be Our Superhero'

UPDATE

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."

UPDATE

"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.

UPDATE

"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."

UPDATE

"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."

UPDATE

"Shad was and will always be our real life super hero."

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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."

UPDATE

"My deepest condolences and love to Shad Gaspard’s wife, son and family," Johnson said on Instagram.

UPDATE

"Shad drowned in the ocean, but not before instructing lifeguards to save his 10yr old son first. That’s the love of a father."

UPDATE

"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.

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.

BEACH BONDING

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

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.

PAYING RESPECTS
Atlanta Pictures / MEGA

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

'Ink Master' Star Daniel Silva Charged with Murder For Corey La Barrie's Death

"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.

MLB's Starling Marte Wife Dies From Heart Attack ... 'Indescribable Pain'

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

Sean Reed Shooting Cop Shoulda Been Fired for 'Closed Casket' Jab ... So Says Reed Family

5/6/2020
SHOTS FIRED

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.

BAD TASTE

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."

I WANT JUSTICE
TMZ.com

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.

'Twilight' Actor Gregory Tyree Boyce Dead at 30

UPDATE

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."

UPDATE

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.”

UPDATE

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."

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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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