‘Spartacus: Blood and Sand’ star Andy Whitfield has died

The 39-year-old star – who played the Thracian slave in the TV series – lost his battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma disease at the age of 39, 18 months after being diagnosed with the cancer.

His wife Vashti issued a statement yesterday (11.09.11) explaining he died on a “sunny Sydney morning” in the “arms of his loving wife”.

The announcement said: “On a beautiful sunny Sydney spring morning, surrounded by his family, in the arms of his loving wife, our beautiful young warrior Andy Whitfield lost his 18 month battle with lymphoma cancer.

“He passed peacefully surrounded by love. Thank you to all his fans whose love and support have help carry him to this point. He will be remembered as the inspiring, courageous and gentle man, father and husband he was.”

Chris Albrecht, president and CEO of Andy’s TV network Starz, released a statement describing him as an “inspiration to us all” and praising him for his “courage, strength and grace” during his battle with cancer.

The statement said: “We were fortunate to have worked with Andy in ‘Spartacus’ and came to know that the man who played a champion on-screen was also a champion in his own life.

“Andy was an inspiration to all of us as he faced this very personal battle with courage, strength and grace.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. He will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and fans.”

The Welsh actor was preparing to shoot the second series when he was diagnosed with cancer, and while waiting for his expected recovery the network produced prequel ‘Spartacus: Gods of the Arena’, which Andy had a voiceover role on.

In January, Starz announced Liam McIntyre would take Andy’s role on ‘Spartacus…’ after his condition started to worsen.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Russell Armstrong — Distraught Over Divorce, ‘Tremendous Financial Problems’

“Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Russell Armstrong was at his wits end over his impending divorce from Taylor in the days leading to his death — and he was inundated with debt.

Russell’s lawyer Ronald Richards tells TMZ, Russell had been staying at a friend’s house on Mulholland Drive in L.A. — the same house where authorities found his body hanging last night.

Richards tells us, “I feel bad because his credit cards weren’t working … He had tremendous financial problems.”

Richards adds, “He was also extremely bummed out about the divorce with Taylor. As far as a will, even if he does have a will, they don’t have any assets, so I’m not sure what there would be left to leave. I am extremely saddened … I had no idea he was depressed.”

As we previously reported, Russell — an investor who made his money in the 90s during the dot com boom — filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2005, claiming he had less than $50,000 in assets … and debt somewhere between $1 and $10 million.

News Source: TMZ

Amy Winehouse’s ashes will be mixed with her beloved grandmother’s

The ‘Back to Black’ singer is due to be cremated today (26.07.11) in accordance with Jewish custom, and her family will fulfil her wish that her ashes are put with those of her grandmother, Cynthia, who died in 2006 from lung cancer.

The funeral – which was given permission to take place after the inquest into her death was opened and immediately adjourned at London’s St Pancras Coroner’s Court yesterday (25.07.11) following her passing on Saturday (23.07.11) – is thought to be taking place at Golders Green Crematorium in north London at 3pm.

A family friend said: “We all hope Amy can finally find some peace.”

After visiting Amy’s home to see tributes left by fans yesterday, her father Mitch, and mother, Janis – who split when she was nine – discussed the funeral options.

Amy idolised her grandmother, a jazz singer who dated saxophone player Ronnie Scott, and the tattoo of a woman in a red shirt on the top of her right arm was said to depict her. She also had her name tattooed on the same arm.

Meanwhile, Amy’s ex-husband Blake Fielder-Civil will not be attending the funeral, after he was not granted compassionate leave from Armley Jail in Yorkshire, Northern England, where he is serving a 32-month sentence on charges of burglary and firearms offences.

Mitch has also said to have warned Blake to stay away from the service and from him and the rest of the family.

A source told The Sun newspaper: “Mitch thinks it would be a complete insult for him to be there and if he really loved Amy, he wouldn’t cause anymore heartache by showing up.

“There is no way back for him with Blake. He absolutely hates his guts.

“He will always believe Blake is responsible for getting his daughter hooked on Class A drugs which marked the beginning of her self-destruction.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Amy Winehouse’s boyfriend Reg Traviss has been going through “hell” since her death on Saturday (23.07.11)

The director – who joined the late singer’s parents Mitch and Janis and brother Alex outside her house in Camden, north London, yesterday (24.07.11) to visit shrines created by fans – admits he has lost his “darling” who he has described as a “beautiful” person.

He said: “The last three days have been hell. We have suffered a terrible untimely loss and want peace.

“I can’t describe what I am going through and I want to thank so much all of the people who have paid their respects and who are mourning the loss of Amy, such a beautiful, brilliant person and my dear love.

“I have lost my darling who I loved very much.”

The 35-year-old filmmaker added the ‘Rehab’ hitmaker, who he had been dating on and off for two years, had been making improvements to her alcohol and drug-fuelled lifestyle and had started exercising regularly before her shock passing at the age of just 27 at the weekend.

He is convinced her death is a tragic “accident” as she was planning to go to a wedding on Sunday (24.07.11).

He added in an interview with The Sun newspaper: “She has been so full of life and so upbeat recently, exercising everyday and doing yoga. This terrible thing that happened is like an accident.”

Discussing the wedding, he added: “Amy kept trying to decide what to wear. She had laid out dresses to make up her mind, she was really looking forward to it.”

Amy’s funeral is set to take place today (26.07.11) with only close friends and family invited.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Amy Winehouse’s family have been left “bereft” by her death

The ‘Rehab’ singer was found dead at her home in Camden, North London yesterday (23.07.11) after a suspected alcohol and drugs overdose and a statement today from her loved ones reveals the heartbreak they are battling.

The statement said: “Our family has been left bereft by the loss of Amy, a wonderful daughter, sister and niece. She leaves a gaping hole in our lives. We are coming together to remember her and we would appreciate some privacy and space at this terrible time.”

Amy’s family are not the only people struggling to cope with her loss. At his gig with The Faces in Hurtwood, Surrey, South East England last night, Absolute Radio DJ Ronnie Wood dedicated his performance of ‘I Would Rather Go Blind’ to the tragic 27-year-old singer.

He said: “It is a very sad loss, of a very good friend, I spent great times with, she was such a beautiful singer, it is such a waste.”

Queen’s Roger Taylor was in the crowd to watch the show and as he took to the stage he said “Tonight is about Amy, we lost a very special girl and we are going to pay tribute to her”.

Amy is survived by her father Mitch, mother Janis and brother Alex.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Amy Winehouse has died

The 27-year-old British singer – who had a history of drug addiction and heavy drinking -was found dead at her North London home this afternoon (23.07.11) at 3.54pmfrom a suspected drink and drugs overdose according to police sources. No other details have been released.

The sad news comes hours after a statement on Amy’s official website claiming the singer – who was booed during a shambolic European comeback performance last month – was taking a break from performing in order to get help and “return to her best”.

It said: “Amy Winehouse is withdrawing from all scheduled performances. Everyone involved wishes to do everything they can to help her return to her best and she will be given as long as it takes for this to happen.”

Before her ill fated comeback Amy had spent one week in London’s renowned rehab facility The Priory in order to get ready for the tour and planned to continue treatment as an outpatient.

She had reportedly stunned onlookers when she bought a small bottle of vodka from a shop in Southgate, north London, on her way rehab last month.

A source said: “She seemed out of it. She was stumbling about, slurring her words.

“I was shocked to see her buy vodka so early in the day, and even more shocked to see her knock it straight back.”

Source: BANG Showbiz

Bruce Springsteen has paid tribute to saxophonist Clarence Clemons, who died aged 69 yesterday (18.06.11)

The ‘Born to Run’ hitmaker said the musician – who appeared in Bruce’s E Street Band –would leave an “immeasurable” gap in his life and thanked him for the opportunity to work alongside him for the last 40 years.

In a statement on his website, Bruce said: “It is with overwhelming sadness that we inform our friends and fans that at 7pm tonight, Saturday, June 18, our beloved friend and bandmate, Clarence Clemons passed away.

“The cause was complications from his stroke of last Sunday, June 12. Clarence lived a wonderful life. He carried within him a love of people that made them love him.

“He loved the saxophone, loved our fans and gave everything he had every night he stepped on stage. His loss is immeasurable and we are honoured and thankful to have known him and had the opportunity to stand beside him for nearly 40 years.”

Despite suffering ill health in recent years, Clarence continued to be in the public eye, most recently appearing with Lady Gaga on the season finale of ‘American Idol’ and in the video for her latest single ‘The Edge of Glory’.

Earlier this week, Gaga asked her fans to make “get will videos” for the saxophone player following his stroke.

She wrote on twitter: “Little monsters, my very close friend +musician on The Edge of Glory, Clarence Clemons is very sick. Can we all make some get well videos?”
Clarence was married five times and fathered four sons.

Source: BANG Showbiz

PETA — Knut’s Death Could Have Been Avoided

The tragic passing of Knut, everyone’s favorite German polar bear, could have been prevented … maybe … this according to PETA.

Knut passed away in his habitat this morning of still-to-be determined causes at the age of 4. A rep for PETA tells TMZ they contacted to Berlin Zoo months ago to alert them to the fact that Knut was being “terrorized” by three female polar bears — including his own mother!

The rep tells us, “PETA Germany repeatedly asked zoo authorities to move Knut away from the three females to a different location. His premature death could possibly have been avoided. Polar bears don’t belong in captivity.”

A necropsy is planned for Monday to determine the cause of death.

News Source: TMZ

‘Last Comic Standing’ Finalist Dies

Comedian Mike DeStefano — one of the 5 finalists on last season’s “Last Comic Standing” — died last night … TMZ has confirmed.

DeStefano was a former heroin addict who had been clean for 11 years. According to the NBC website, he frequently performed at prisons and rehab centers for free.

According to reports, DeStefano died after suffering a massive heart attack last night.

His rep released a statement saying, “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of a dear friend, a true gentleman, a great comic, and a fierce warrior, Mike DeStefano.”

The statement continues …

“Mike had a lot of wisdom to share with the world from his own life lessons and he always did it with laughter and a smile.

It’s hard to think that there won’t be any more “hey sweetheart” calls, because Mike always made my day with his mix of kindness and warmth AND profanity filled rants against the wrongs of the world. He was the genuine article. We love you and will miss you, Mike.”

News Source: TMZ

Peter Fonda 911 Call — ‘I Don’t Think He’s Alive’

TMZ has obtained the 911 call made last week when Peter Fonda found a dead body in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles.

Peter Fonda 911

As we first reported, Fonda was driving down Sunset Blvd. on Wednesday when he stopped to check out a car that was stopped on the side of the road … and found a man inside who had committed suicide.

News Source: TMZ

‘This Is It’ Producer: I Didn’t Cause Michael’s Death

The producer/director of Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” tour is scoffing at Katherine Jackson’s wrongful death suit in which he’s named as a defendant, because he had nothing to do with the drugs or treatment that caused the singer’s death.

Kenny Ortega just filed legal docs — obtained by TMZ — asking the court to remove him as a defendant in Katherine’s suit, claiming, “Kenneth Ortega is not alleged to be involved in the medical treatment or administration of drugs that allegedly caused Michael Jackson’s death.”

Ortega’s lawyer adds … Kenny never had a contract with Dr. Conrad Murray or with Michael Jackson, nor has he had any official affiliation with AEG.

Ortega’s lawyer says, “The naming of Kenneth Ortega as a defendant in this action, without any basis, without any substantive charging allegations against him, is a gross error.”

News Source: TMZ

Pete Postlethwaite has died aged 65

The British actor – who last year appeared in blockbuster movies ‘Inception’ and ‘The Town’ – passed away yesterday (02.01.11) after a long battle with cancer at a hospital in Shropshire, England, his friend, journalist Andrew Richardson confirmed.

He had continued working despite receiving treatment for testicular cancer in 1991, and his family have requested privacy.

Legendary director Steven Spielberg – who worked with Pete on ‘The Lost World: Jurassic Park’ – has previously called the star the “best actor in the world”, something he later joked about.

Commenting on the accolade, Pete said: “I’m sure what Spielberg actually said was, ‘the thing about Pete is that he thinks he’s the best actor in the world’.”

Pete – who was nominated for an Oscar for his role in 1993 movie ‘Name of the Father’ – is survived by his wife of seven years Jacqui and two children William and Lily.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Leslie Nielsen has died at the age of 84

The comedy actor – best known for his role in movies ‘Airplane!’ and the ‘Naked Gun’ series – died in his sleep yesterday as a result of complications from pneumonia yesterday (28.11.10) in Ford Lauderdale, Florida.

His agent John S. Kelly confirmed the star’s passing in a statement which also paid tribute to his lengthy career.

He said: “We are saddened by the passing of beloved actor Leslie Nielson, probably best remembered as Lt. Frank Drebin in ‘The Naked Gun’ series of pictures, but who enjoyed a more than 60-year career in motion pictures and television.”

His nephew Doug told radio station CJOB the actor was a “very caring” man who he would miss “greatly”

He said: “He just fell asleep and passed away. He was a truly nice man. A very caring, naturally funny guy in day-to-day life, not just because someone wrote something on paper for me.

“He was a very tender-hearted man. He was one of my best friends and I loved him dearly. I’ll miss him greatly.”

Canadian-born Leslie appeared in a number of big movies before his break into comedy, including sci-fi epic ‘Forbidden Planet’ and ‘The Poseidon Adventure’ in 1972.

He was married four times and is survived by his last wife Barbaree Earl and two children from his second marriage to Alisande Ullman, Maura and Thea.

Source: BANG Showbiz

Body Found at Playboy Mansion

A body was found this afternoon on the grounds of the Playboy Mansion … TMZ has learned.

Sources tell us the body of a man was found in the backyard near a fence.

Someone at the mansion tells TMZ there was a hole in the fence and the theory is the man was trying to get through the fence — possibly to attend a charity event last night. We do not know how the man died.

The L.A. County Coroner has already picked up the body.

Source: TMZ

Tom Bosley is Dead

Tom Bosley — who famously played Mr. Cunningham on “Happy Days” — has died at his home in Palm Springs … TMZ has learned.

Family members tell us Bosley had been battling a staff infection.

He was 83 years old.

Source: TMZ

‘Gossip Girl’ Dad’s New Love

“Gossip Girl” star Matthew Settle’s divorce from actress-model Naama Nativ took an emotional toll on the actor—“It’s tough,” he said in April, of the February split — but those feelings are a thing of the past, as he now settles into a new relationship, with fashionista Leyla Vassighy, and TooFab’s got the exclusive details about their lovey-dovey courtship!

“He’s been so happy, since he’s been with her,” the source tells TooFab of the couple, who’ve managed to fly under the radar of gossip hounds, despite stepping out together since July. “They met through a friend a while ago, but they were friends first. They’re super cute together, and are very lovey-dovey.” And even though Settle turned 41 last month, and Vassighy is in her twenties, the age difference means nothing to them, adds the source.

As for Vassighy, who works for fashion designer Brunello Cucinelli in New York, “She’s a lot cooler than his ex,” says the source. “She’s a real down-to-earth girl, and he’s a real down-to-earth guy. They’re both New Yorkers, and like to go out on the town together, to parties, clubs and restaurants.”

And even though this is Settle’s first relationship since his divorce, the source is adamant that their love is for real: “This isn’t just a rebound relationship. He really likes her. It’s serious.”

Source:  Too Fab

The Beaver ‘Saddened’ by Death of Barbara Billingsley

Jerry Mathers, who played The Beaver on “Leave It to Beaver” just gave this statement to TMZ on the passing of Barbara Billingsley:

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend and lifetime mentor Barbara Billingsley. She will live in the hearts of her fans as a wonderful actress and be remembered by her friends as a gracious lady. Barbara was a patient advisor and teacher. She helped me along this challenging journey through life by showing me the importance of manners, and respect for others. She will be deeply missed by all of her family, friends, fans and most especially by me.”

As for Jerry, he also tells TMZ he’s “excited to be getting married in January at the Waterfront Hilton in Huntington Beach.”

Source: TMZ

Dennis Hopper Widow Files Behemoth Claim

Dennis Hopper’s widow, Victoria Hopper, has just filed a $45 million creditor’s claim against the estate.

As for how Victoria gets $45 mil, there are pages of claims, which include hundreds of thousands of dollars in lawyer’s fees, costs of raising their 7-year-old child and a cut of the property Dennis owned.

Victoria also claims she suffered a loss of income while she was married to Dennis, to the tune of $2.26 million.

Victoria also wants a cool $10 million for defamation of character during the heated divorce battle.

And there are expenses for the horse, of course of course, to the tune of $4,000.

It all adds up.

Source: TMZ

Chris Rock, Jon Stewart Attend Wake for Greg Giraldo

Greg Giraldo was just laid to rest in a private family ceremony in The Hamptons … but last night, tons of Giraldo’s famous friends — including Jon Stewart and Chris Rock — gathered for a wake in his honor.

Among the famous comics who paid their respects at Giraldo’s wake — Sarah Silverman, Jeff Ross, Bobby Kelly, Jim Norton and Colin Quinn.

And, despite the presence of so many comics — it wasn’t jokey at all … the mood was described as “very sad and emotional.”

We’re also told Colin Quinn delivered a very heartfelt speech about his friend.

As we previously reported, Greg passed away last week at the age of 44. Several of the comic’s close friends have set up a fund to support and educate his three young sons.

Source: TMZ

Gary Coleman’s Death Probe — Case Closed

No one murdered Gary Coleman … this according to investigators who finally closed the case into the actor’s untimely demise.

The decision to shut down the investigation comes just weeks after cops in Utah received and reviewed Coleman’s autopsy report — in which the coroner labeled Gary’s death an “accident.”

Indeed the autopsy concludes Coleman was in terrible shape before he died. A rep for the Santaquin Police tells us, “[Gary] was an accident waiting to happen. The last time I saw him he literally looked gray.”

FYI — no one was ever suspected of killing Gary … but his kinda-sorta wife Shannon Price did release an unsolicited statement denying any involvement in Coleman’s death.

Source: TMZ

Greg Giraldo — The Final Performance

TMZ has obtained footage from Greg Giraldo’s last stand-up gig — taken the night before the comic overdosed — in which Greg appeared to be his usual self … crackin’ jokes about sex, drugs and Tiger Woods.

After the performance at the Stress Factory in New Brunswick, NJ on September 24 — Greg took photos with several fans … all of whom told us he couldn’t have been nicer.

The following night, Greg was rushed to a local hospital from an overdose on pills. He passed away 5 days later.

Source: TMZ

Greg Giraldo Death — Family Pulled Life Support

Greg Giraldo had been in a coma for five days when his family ultimately made the decision to end the comedian’s life … TMZ has learned.

Sources close to the situation tell us Greg had remained in a coma since he overdosed last weekend in New Jersey.

We’re told doctors weren’t able to resuscitate him, and Greg’s family decided to take him off life support yesterday.

Source: TMZ

Greg Giraldo’s Would-Be Gig Becomes Memorial

TMZ has learned … the comedy club where Greg Giraldo was scheduled to perform this weekend is now putting together plans for a memorial instead, featuring a tribute to the late comedian’s life.

The manager at Governor’s Comedy Club in Levittown, NY tells TMZ, the memorial is scheduled for Friday at 10:30 PM … exactly when Greg was supposed to take the stage.

We’re told the club will be playing Greg’s DVDs on the televisions — there won’t be any admission fee … and all donations will go to Greg’s family.

The manager tells us, “We just want to commemorate his life.” As we previously reported, Greg passed away yesterday … five days after he was hospitalized for an overdose.

Source: TMZ

Katherine Jackson: ‘I Want Justice’

Katherine Jackson doesn’t think any judicial resolution with Dr. Conrad Murray or AEG that will bring her peace … but that doesn’t mean she’s not gonna fight the fight.

In another interview from the Michael Jackson Secret Vault, Katherine Jackson says, “I want justice done,” yet she explains that any victory will be hollow.

Source: TMZ

AEG — Don’t Blame Us for Dr. Murray!

AEG is finally lashing back at Katherine Jackson’s lawsuit over the death of her son Michael Jackson — claiming it had nothing to do with the hiring or supervision of Dr. Conrad Murray.

In a statement released through AEG’s lawyers — the company calls Katherine’s lawsuit “inaccurate, unsubstantiated and meritless” and then goes on to explain its relationship with Dr. Murray.

The statement continues … “Dr. Murray was Mr. Jackson’s longtime personal physician. AEG did not choose him, hire him or supervise him. That said, and in honor of our professional relationship with Mr. Jackson and his Estate, we will have no further public statements.”

It is true that Michael handpicked Dr. Murray — but Katherine claims that AEG was negligent because they didn’t check Murray’s credentials. Katherine also claims AEG pushed Michael way too hard during rehearsals.

Source: TMZ