USC Women's Rowing Ad ... Taking Major Jab at Lori's Daughters???

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Someone at USC wants you to think that Lori Loughlin and her daughters were NOT a one-off, but actually the status quo in that ya need NO experience for the women's rowing team.

A laminated poster promoting the D1 ladies crew team is literally hanging in the women's locker room inside USC's Lyon Rec Center right now, which has a pretty eyebrow-raising slogan ... "Join USC's Women's Rowing ... No experience? No problem."

There's even an email to contact the official asst. coach for questions, and the USC women's rowing social media handle is attached as well. Hmm ... interesting.

As you know ... Lori and her husband, Mossimo Giannulli, have both been indicted and charged for allegedly paying hundreds of thousands in bribes to get their daughters -- Olivia Jade and Isabella -- into USC via the crew team ... even though they weren't rowers.

For the record ... Lori and Mossimo have pled not guilty to the initial conspiracy charges, as well as the additional money laundering charges that were filed when they didn't follow Felicity Huffman's lead in copping a plea.

Either way -- it would appear this poster is an elaborate joke that someone went to some lengths to pull off, assuming it is, in fact, fake. We only say that because it looks pretty damn real ... and it's eerily similar to an official recruiting ad the rowing team ran in 2018.

So, here's the thing .... we'd like to give USC the benefit of the doubt and assume this is a fake, 'cause if it wasn't ... it'd be incredibly tone-deaf and, frankly, dumb all things considered.

Just in case though, we've reached out to USC for official comment to see if they green-lit this. So far, no word back.

Blake Griffin Drake, I Hope You Didn't Kill Arya

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ARYA'S GOT MOVES

Blake Griffin sure hopes Drake didn't seal Arya Stark's fate on "Game of Thrones" by shouting her out at the Billboard Music Awards ... him and everyone else, tbh.

We got the Pistons star outside of the Maxfield clothing store in WeHo Friday afternoon and asked him about Drizzy showing love to Maisie Williams' 'GOT' character Wednesday night when he mentioned her during his acceptance speech for the Top Billboard 200 Album.

ICYMI ... Drake made sure to plug Arya for "putting in that work last week" during Sunday's episode when she killed the Night King with some fancy dagger moves -- basically saving every living person in Westeros from eternal death in the process.

BTW, this is a spoiler -- and you should've seen it by now. If you haven't, well, here it is ... ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Anyway ... Blake really, REALLY hopes the Drake curse doesn't kick in here for everyone's sake. Like he says, "I think we all need a little bit of Arya." Considering Champagne Papi's track record with supporting losing teams ... here's praying Blake's right.

BG explains why the character is a perfect role model for everyone at home, including the manliest of men. Check it out ... he's got his final Iron Throne pick locked in too.

Alex Trebek Pancreatic Cancer Survivors are Like 'Jeopardy' James

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Alex Trebek -- the awesome host of "Jeopardy" -- sees similarities between "Jeopardy" James Holzhauer and the effort to beat pancreatic cancer ... both have amassed money way beyond expectations.

Trebek, who was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer 2 months ago, was the keynote speaker Saturday morning at the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network walk at the L.A. Zoo.

Alex mentioned a previous speaker named Angie, a 22-year cancer survivor. The best host in the biz modestly noted his fight is only 62-days long, but if he ties Angie, he'll be the ripe old age of 100!!!

In case you don't know, Alex is one of the most charitable people in Hollywood ... google it and you'll be super impressed. He's undergoing chemo and openly talks of his struggle and the depression associated with it, but he wasn't about to miss this event.

He was mum on seemingly unbeatable "Jeopardy" champ James Holzhauer, whose 22-day earnings total nearly $1.7 million and is poised to beat Ken Jennings' record. Except to compare James' feat to that of the cancer fundraising efforts.

Alex is an amazing man and we are rooting for him in a big way!!!

Kaley Cuoco I'm Movin' On ... From 'Big Bang' To My Home

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Kaley Cuoco is moving on, not just from "The Big Bang Theory" ... she's also unloading her awesome estate.

Our real estate sources say she's just listed her $6.9 million home in the super-exclusive Mulholland Park estates in Tarzana.

As for Kaley's 7 bedroom home, listed by Keller Williams agent Stephanie Vitacco, it's 8,000 square feet, customized to the 9's, has a library, an amazing outdoor entertaining area, and a pretty awesome backyard with a pool.

'Big Bang' -- pretty much the most popular comedy during its run -- is wrapping after 12 seasons. The show wraps May 16. Kaley, who plays Penny, says, "It's broken my heart. I am so sad that it's ending. For the record, I would have done 20 more years."

Well, the 33-year-old now has new territory to conquer, both in show biz and real estate.

Trina Braxton Niece's Death Led to Profound Realization

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ALWAYS TIME TO FORGIVE

Trina Braxton's family has had a lot of heartbreak lately, but she says the passing of her 24-year-old niece really struck a chord and made her realize something very important -- life's too short.

We got Trina at LAX Friday afternoon, and she talked about the tragic death of Lauren Braxton -- her older brother Michael Conrad Braxton Jr.'s daughter -- along with other hardships she and her family have had to endure.

As you may know, Trina lost her ex-husband to cancer in December, and recently dealt with the death of her aunt, as well. Trina says it's been trying, but everyone is holding up and supporting one another.

Regarding Lauren's death, Trina says the grieving process has opened her eyes to what truly matters in this world ... and it's not petty drama or holding onto grudges.

Trina also provides a beautiful acronym she says she keeps in mind during the difficult time after a loved one dies ... check it out.

We broke the story ... Lauren died last week in Maryland, and her father says it was related to a heart condition.

She was 24. RIP.

Soledad O'Brien 'Surviving R Kelly: The Impact' Connects Victims

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Soledad O'Brien, host of Saturday night's Lifetime follow-up to "Surviving R. Kelly," says this docuseries has been groundbreaking for victims who never had a voice.

We got Soledad Friday at LAX ... on the eve her show, "Surviving R. Kelly: The Impact," which not only follows up with the alleged victims but also the defense strategies of the embattled singer.

She says one of the values of her docuseries and others is that victims who had no previous connection are able to find each other and mobilize.

BTW ... more than 26 million people have seen the original series. Soledad's show airs on Lifetime Saturday at 10 PM ET.

'Teen Mom' Dropped By Pet Treat Advertiser ... After Dog Shooting

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"Teen Mom 2" just suffered another casualty -- this time in the form of an advertiser -- Greenies pet treats has cut ties with the MTV show.

In a statement Friday, Greenies announced, "We have zero tolerance for animal cruelty and we can now confirm that as a result of this incident, our ads will no longer run during Teen Mom programming."

Greenies joins a mountain of companies who have pulled the plug on their relationship with "Teen Mom." Chipotle, Dove Chocolates, TWIX and Persil ProClean are among some of the brands who have also cut ties.

TMZ broke the story ... "Teen Mom 2" star Jenelle Evans' husband, David Eason, is under investigation for animal cruelty after he allegedly pummeled and then shot his family dog. Both the local Animal Control and Sheriff's Department is working on the investigation.

We reached out to MTV for comment ... so far, no word back.

Canelo Alvarez LeBron Would Dominate as Boxer

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AN ABSOLUTE HONOR

If the whole "basketball God" thing never happened for LeBron James, he could've earned his way as a real-deal professional boxer ... and if you don't believe it, just ask Canelo Alvarez!!!

TMZ Sports spoke with the boxing superstar about partnering with King James for a docuseries leading up to his big fight with Daniel Jacobs ... and he says it's an incredible honor to work together.

So, how would Bron have fared if he took his talents to the ring instead of the court?

"He has the height, the body, the physique. But, an athlete of this level -- like ourselves -- I think we can do other sports fairly well."

Just for fun, here's the tale of the tape pitting LeBron James against heavyweight champ Deontay Wilder ...

We also had to flip the question on Canelo to ask what sport he'd like to dominate if he didn't become a boxer ... and you'll want to hear what he says!!!

As for the fight with Jacobs on DAZN this weekend, Canelo says he's feeling good leading up to the huge event on Saturday.

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MAY THE BEST FIGHTER WIN

Dina Manzo Arrest Made in 2017 Home Invasion

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Former 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' star Dina Manzo and her husband are finally close to getting justice -- a man's been arrested for their violent home invasion.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... James Mainello, a 51-year-old male from New Jersey is in police custody and is facing multiple charges for his role in the May 2017 incident. We're told DNA evidence was key in nailing the suspect ... who cops believe was one of the 2 alleged burglars.

As we reported ... Dina and David Cantin were attacked as soon as they walked in the front door of their home. The suspects struck Dina in the face and head and bludgeoned David with a baseball bat.

The couple was then zip-tied while the perps ransacked the house ... making off with cash and jewelry.

Mainello's been hit with multiple robbery charges, a burglary charge, multiple assault charges, a theft charge and several others.

Dina and David's lawyer, Andrew Brettler, tells us everyone is extremely grateful to the New Jersey law enforcement authorities, "whose diligent investigation over the last two years culminated in today’s arrest."

The couple adds ... "Thank you to everyone who has expressed concern for our well-being. We’ve had such a great support system."

Hayden Panettiere Boyfriend Arrested for Domestic Violence

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Hayden Panettiere's boyfriend got hauled off to jail after their night out on the town turned violent at home ... TMZ has learned.

Sources close to the situation tell us ... the "Nashville" star and her BF, Brian Hickerson, were out drinking together in Hollywood Wednesday night before heading back to their pad. We're told the couple had an argument that turned physical and, at some point, cops were called ... it's unclear by whom.

Police showed up around 2 AM Thursday, and our sources say they noticed redness and marks on Hayden's body. After interviewing both of them, we're told they determined Hickerson allegedly started the fight, and arrested him.

Law enforcement sources tell us he was booked for felony domestic violence. He was released later Thursday after posting a $50k bond.

This isn't the first time Hickerson has been involved in a domestic dispute, but last time it was with his father.

We broke the story ... Brian and his dad, David, got into an altercation at a home in South Carolina in October. According to the police report, cops responded to a call for assault and battery, and when they showed up Hayden answered the door in an apparent drunk and frantic state.

About a month later, Hayden and Brian were spotted at a Hollywood hot spot ... and he caused a scene with a faux proposal.

The couple's been dating since sometime last summer, presumably around the time Hickerson "saved" Panettiere from swarming paparazzi.

We reached out to Hayden ... no word back, so far.

Jenelle Evans' Husband David Eason Threatens Photog in Dog Killing

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David Eason, Jenelle Evans husband, who allegedly killed their family dog with a shotgun, made it clear to a photog in court Friday ... stay clear of him, or else.

Eason was in a North Carolina courtroom because he owed $5,187 in back child support. He had a deadline of Friday to pay up or possibly be held in contempt and go to jail. He showed up empty-handed, but the judge gave him a reprieve ... to come up with the money in the next few hours.

Eason left court, and a photog/reporter for WSFX tried asking him about killing his dog, but he wasn't having it and warned, "Don't get in my face, bro. I promise you don't want to do that."

Eason came back a short time later and paid the money.

He owed the money to Olivia Leedham, the mother of his 5-year-old son. Leedham claimed back in 2013, when she was 8 months pregnant he shoved her and also left her in the middle of the road when she was 7 months pregnant.

As for the dog ... we're told he was irate after the French Bulldog nipped at his daughter after she got in the dog's face ... beat the animal, and then shot it to death.

Law enforcement tells us ... Eason is now under criminal investigation for animal cruelty.

'Storage Wars' Star Barry Weiss Difficult Road Ahead After Motorcycle Crash

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Barry Weiss is being put through the wringer following his nasty motorcycle accident, and he has more obstacles ahead on his road to recovery.

Sources close to the "Storage Wars" star tell TMZ ... he's had to undergo multiple surgeries since the crash last week -- one on his back and one on his femur. We're told more procedures will follow.

Despite the difficulties, our sources say Barry's in stable condition and alert ... and he's eager to get out of a hospital bed and go home.

We've also obtained a 911 call of the incident from the driver of the car that was hit by Barry's chopper. She tells the operator she got hit from behind, and someone was tending to him on the street.

We broke the story ... Barry and his friend were riding bikes last Wednesday in the Los Feliz area of L.A. when a car allegedly pulled out in front of them from a parking space. Barry and his friend both slammed into the back of it and went down, but Weiss got the worst of it.

We're told drugs or alcohol were not a factor in the accident.

Get well soon, Barry!!!

Tamra Judge Crotch-ing It Like It's Hot in Miami!!!

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Tamra Judge wasn't wearing apple bottom jeans or boots with the fur ... but the club was most definitely looking at her, 'cause her crotch was exposed.

The "Real Housewives of Orange County" star hit up E11EVEN Miami earlier this week to celebrate Vicki Gunvalson's engagement and Shannon Beador's recent divorce. We're told the entire cast tore it up for the double celebration.

But, ya gotta check out the vid ... Tamra got on stage and twerked her ass off to Flo Rida's "Low," maybe a little too much 'cause Shannon had to step in and pull down her dress to avoid exposing her crotch.

Oops.

We've got pics too ... Vicki and Shannon wore "Bride to Be" and "Just Divorced" sashes to commemorate the occasion. We're told they all showed up late Tuesday night around midnight and left the club around 4 AM. They posted up at a VIP table and guzzled vodka and champagne.

BTW ... cameras were rolling for the show, so get ready to see this in an upcoming episode.

Todd Chrisley Jenelle Evans & Daughter at Risk ... David Eason's 'Unstable'

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Todd Chrisley is urging Jenelle Evans to get herself and her daughter the hell away from David Eason in the wake of him killing the family dog ... because he's convinced the guy will snap again.

We got the star of "Chrisley Knows Best" Thursday at LAX, and he went off on Jenelle's husband. Todd has some extra sympathy in this situation because he also owns a French bulldog named, Lilo. Not surprisingly, he called the slaying disgusting ... and insists Eason needs professional help.

Todd says his Frenchie is also around kids -- primarily his 6-year-old granddaughter, Chloe -- and suggests better parenting might have prevented the heinous act in Jenelle's home.

As we've reported ... Eason shot and killed Jenelle's French bulldog, Nugget, because it nipped at their daughter, Ensley.

Animal control wants to know exactly what happened to Nugget and where the body is -- but Todd firmly believes there's enough evidence that Eason poses a great danger to his family. He suggests Jenelle get out while the getting's good.

Jenelle Evans & David Eason Investigation Underway for Animal Cruelty ... In Dog Shooting Case

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1:30 PM PT -- The Columbus County Sheriff's Office just told TMZ they, along with the Columbus County Animal Control, have "initiated a joint investigation into allegations of animal cruelty. The investigation is ongoing."

1:11 PM PT -- A source close to Jenelle tells us right after Nugget nipped at his daughter, David brought the dog outside and continuously slammed him against their back deck ... from there, he took Nugget into a wooded area and shot him.

12:07 PM PT -- Law enforcement sources tell us Animal Control officers just went to Jenelle's home to do their check. We're told officers were able to drive onto the property through an open gate, but there was a grey pit bull on the porch and several "No Trespassing" signs.

Our source says the Animal Control officers -- fearing for their safety -- left the property and alerted the Sheriff's Department who, we're told, will now attempt to complete the visit.

We're told officers want to determine if Nugget is alive and whose name is on ownership papers for the dog ... from there, they'll be able to determine next steps.

Animal Control wants Jenelle Evans and David Eason to answer some questions about the death of their family dog, but that might be easier said than done ... based on David's history with unwanted visitors.

TMZ's learned that following the news that Jenelle's husband shot and killed her French Bulldog, Nugget -- for nipping their daughter, Ensley -- North Carolina's animal welfare hotline was flooded with calls about the incident.

We're told the Attorney General's Office received 138 complaints and referred them to Animal Control after review, and also informed the Columbus County Sheriff.

Sources connected to the case tell us Animal Control is sending an officer to the 'Teen Mom' couple's house Thursday with a mission -- confirm the dog is dead, and verify Jenelle and David have possession of the dog's corpse.

It's unclear what, if any, legal action could be taken after that -- but it likely won't be an easy visit for Animal Control. Eason reacted aggressively when authorities showed up at his home in December.

As we reported, he posted a series of gun-crazed videos after he said Secret Service drove up on his property to question him about some threatening social media posts. He said he wasn't afraid to shoot future trespassers ... and showed off his stockpile of ammo.

David's alarming behavior reached a new level Wednesday, when he practically admitted on Instagram to killing Nugget. Jenelle later confirmed it, claiming David dragged the dog into the woods and shot him.

Up to this point, David's gotten away with it. The Columbus Co. Sheriff's Dept. made it clear the only way they'll take action is if Jenelle files a police report. We were told they don't rely on "sensationalized" social media reports. We'll see if a report from Animal Control will change their mind.

Originally Published -- 8:41 AM PT

Tom Brady Bro Dinner with Kimmel and Damon ... Who's Got the Bill???

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Tom Brady, Matt Damon and Jimmy Kimmel bro'd down over some sushi in Beverly Hills ... they're super rich and super famous ... so, question is, who footed the bill???

The power trio hit the town after shooting a bit for "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on Wednesday ... getting a table at Yazawa Japanese BBQ.

Of course, Brady's been all over La La Land this week ... he was spotted throwin' the pigskin with some UCLA players earlier in the day before joining the stars for dinner.

So ... who pays the tab?! Let's break it down:

Kimmel -- Jimmy just had Brady and Damon on his show ... so a few sushi rolls as a thank you for coming on his show ain't out of the question.

Damon -- the actor's a HUGE Pats and TB12 fan ... so a congrats on winning a 6th SUPER BOWL dinner is definitely not out of the question.

Then there's Brady ... the dude's made more than $212 MILLION in his career -- and that's just his football salary -- and uhh, we might have our winner.

Regardless of who whipped out the wallet ... that's one helluva power table.