The Amazing Johnathan Dead at 63 ... Of Congestive Heart Failure

Stand-up comedian and shock magician "The Amazing Johnathan" is dead after battling heart issues for years.

An assistant to Johnathan's wife tells TMZ ... Johnathan passed Tuesday night while at home "cuddling" with his wife of 11 years, Anastasia Synn. We're told a hospice nurse had been staying with him for the last 3 weeks, and confirmed he had passed.

The former Las Vegas headliner, whose real name was Johnathan Szeles, had been diagnosed with congestive heart failure in 2007, and it's been a very tough road. The assistant says, "We have thought we lost him so many times that we never thought it would actually happen."

Johnathan was reportedly making up to $3 million per year at the peak of his Vegas fame when he had a residency at Bally's casino. His gonzo act featured some astounding, and downright shocking, moves ... including putting a spike through his tongue and sucking on his dangling eyeball.

The Detroit native gained a more mainstream audience after appearing on Criss Angel's reality show, "Mindfreak."

During a 2014 appearance, he announced he'd been told he only had one year to live ... but he was still around 5 years later when he launched a comeback tour.

Anastasia's assistant says they will have memorials for Johnathan in Vegas, Michigan and in L.A. they will hold the "Los Angeles Broken wand ceremony at the Magic Castle."

Johnathan was 63.

RIP

Naomi Osaka Buys Nick Lachey's Mansion for $6 Mil ... Yes, it Has a Tennis Court

Naomi Osaka might be young, but she's making big girl purchases -- she just bought a new home in the L.A. area for $6.3 mil.

The 24-year-old phenom grabbed a whole lotta house for her money -- the spread has 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, game room and a media room.

Of course, the 6,855 sq. ft. home has some pretty cool features fit for a tennis superstar ... including, a fitness room, pool, and a basketball court that can be converted into a full-size tennis court.

Naomi bought the home from Nick Lachey from the boy band 98 Degrees. He and his wife, actress Vanessa Lachey, bought the San Fernando Valley mansion in 2020 for $5.1 mil.

Here's a fun fact ... Naomi's on a Nick streak, of sorts. Her last real estate score came in 2019, when she bought Nick Jonas' home in Beverly Hills for $6.9 million.

Looks like those tennis games and endorsements are really paying off big time.

And, just a little fair warning to Nick Cannon ... chances are Naomi's gonna be in the market for your crib, next.

LINDSEY PEARLMAN History of Depression ... 2 Suicide Notes Found

Lindsey Pearlman, the "Empire" and "General Hospital" actress who was found dead in her car Friday ... had a history of depression before committing suicide ... TMZ has learned.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... Lindsey called her husband, Vance Smith, the day before her body was found, saying she was intent on ending her life. Her husband contacted police in a frantic effort to find Lindsey. He never saw her alive again.

We're told Lindsey drove to the base of Runyon Canyon in Hollywood -- a popular hiking spot -- and swallowed enough pills to fatally overdose. A hiker came upon her car last Friday, saw her body inside and called police.

We've learned Lindsey left a suicide note at her home and also left a note in her car ... telling whoever found her to call 911.

Investigators learned Lindsey suffered from bouts of depression over the years, and it appears it just became too overwhelming.

After her body was found, Lindsey's sister posted the phone number of the National Suicide Hotline on social media and said, "Please know that you are never truly alone."

The Los Angeles County medical examiner's office says an autopsy was performed but they are requesting more tests and studies before determining an official cause of death, but our law enforcement sources say it's apparent it was a drug overdose.

If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK.

Kim Kardashian Fleet of Cars ... Over $100K in Custom Work!!!

Kim Kardashian recently flaunted her armada of cars, which isn't only impressive because they're super-expensive luxury rides -- it turns out she also dropped 6 figures just to customize them.

Now this is some serious rich people s**t, but sources tell TMZ ... the 3 whips Kim showed off during her Vogue video interview -- her Lambo, Rolls-Royce and Maybach -- went into the shop because she wanted them to match the color of her home!!!

Yep, she dropped north of $100k to paint all of them "ghost grey" ... to accessorize her mansion.

Our sources tell us the custom paint job was done by Platinum Motorsports in L.A., and we're told the color is a very specific Rolls-Royce grey. Sorry, you're not likely to find that in your local body shop.

Each whip took about a month to get done, because it's not just a simple spray painting. We're told the guys at Platinum have to take apart each car piece by piece in order to apply the color.

If you're curious which of KK's vehicles took the longest to work on ... we're told it was the Lamborghini Urus, because it has an intricate body kit toward the front. And, yes, our sources say Kim was very involved in the process along the way ... she knew exactly what she wanted.

One last thing ... Platinum's been doing business with Kim for a while now, and we're told they're getting customers calling in and asking for the "Kim K."

Best billboard money can buy.

Slim Jxmmi Battery Case Dropped Victim Recants Assault Claim

Rapper Slim Jxmmi's battery case has been dropped ... after the alleged victim recanted her allegations ... TMZ has learned.

According to new legal documents -- obtained by TMZ -- prosecutors in Florida say they do not have a good faith basis to file any battery charges against the rapper. Prosecutors say Slim's girlfriend backtracked on her initial battery claim, quickly saying it wasn't true.

You'll recall ... law enforcement sources told us Slim was arrested late January in Miami-Dade County, FL after his girlfriend called the cops, claiming he was upset with her and allegedly ripped hair extensions from her scalp.

But, according to the docs, not long after his arrest, Slim's GF took back her statement, saying he never put a hand on her.

Prosecutors say because the alleged victim recanted and would no longer cooperate, there was a "credibility concern" that would make it difficult to prove any case against Slim ... so they decided not to file charges.

Zac Stacy Hit With Five Charges ... Over Alleged August Attack On Ex

More trouble for ex-NFL running back Zac Stacy ... TMZ Sports has learned he's been hit with five more criminal charges, these stemming from an alleged August attack on his ex.

According to court records, Stacy was hit with three misdemeanor domestic violence battery charges last week, as well as two misdemeanor criminal mischief charges.

In court documents, officials say the charges stem from an Aug. 16, 2021 incident with his ex-girlfriend, Kristin Evans -- the same woman Stacy was seen on video brutalizing in November 2021.

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HORRIFYING ABUSE

Officials did not specifically spell out the allegations against Stacy in the docs ... but Evans previously claimed in a restraining order application in Florida that the former football player had flown into a violent rage over rent money back in August.

"He physically assaulted me several times because he wanted the money back he gave me for our rent," Evans wrote in the application.

"He punched my legs, slapped me, picked me up by my arms, and threw me into my window, which broke. I had glass in my feet that I removed myself."

Evans provided TMZ Sports photos of the injuries she says she suffered in the alleged attack ... showing large bruises and cuts on her body.

Stacy is due for a hearing on the new charges in Orange County, Fla. court next month.

As we reported, Stacy had been previously charged with felony battery charges stemming from the November incident. Court records show he pleaded not guilty in that case on Tuesday. He's due for a hearing in that case in May.

Pockets in 'Hook' 'Memba Him?!

Chicago-born child actor Isaiah Robinson was only 8 years old when he took on the role of the little lost boy Pockets -- who spots the Pan inside of Peter and delivers the classic line "Oh, there you are Peter" -- in Steven Spielberg's 1991 fantasy film "Hook."

Isaiah Robinson shared the big screen with an impressive list of actors including Dante Basco as Rufio, Julia Roberts as the fast-fluttering, Tinker Bell, Dustin Hoffman as the kid-stealing, Captain Hook ... and of course Robin Williams as the lost boy leader turned lawyer, Peter Banning ... a.k.a. Peter Pan.

Guess what he looks like now!

Phil Mickelson My Saudi Comments Were Out Of Context ... But 'I Am Deeply Sorry'

UPDATE

3:34 PM PT -- One of Mickelson's biggest sponsors, accounting giant KPMG, announced it has "mutually agreed" to part ways with the golfer following the controversy.

UPDATE

"We wish him the best," KPMG officials said in a statement.

Phil Mickelson says the insensitive comments he made recently about a new Saudi golf league were taken "out of context and without my consent" ... but the golf star is still issuing a mea culpa nonetheless.

Phil broke it all down in a lengthy statement on his social media page Tuesday ... just days after he admitted to supporting the formation of a new Saudi golf league, despite what he called the country's "horrible record of human rights."

"We know they killed (Washington Post reporter and U.S. resident Jamal) Khashoggi and have a horrible record on human rights," Mickelson said, according to The Fire Pit Collective.

"They execute people over there for being gay. Knowing all of this, why would I even consider it? Because this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to shape how the PGA Tour operates."

Phil went on to say that he believed the new Saudi league -- which was reportedly trying to sway top American golfers with millions of dollars in cash -- could force big and necessary changes on the PGA Tour.

While Phil said Tuesday the comments were "off record" and out of context -- he admitted that the words were offensive and regrettable regardless.

"It was reckless, I offended people, and I am deeply sorry for my choice of words," Mickelson said in his statement. "I'm beyond disappointed and will make every effort to self-reflect and learn from this."

He continued, "My intent was never to hurt anyone and I’m so sorry to the people I have negatively impacted. This has always been about supporting the players and the game and I appreciate all the people who have given me the benefit of the doubt."

Phil then hinted he could take a step away from the game for a while following the controversy ... saying he "desperately" needs "some time away."

We should note ... Phil's worked hard to change the game over the years, including a revamp of the US Ryder Cup system and helped to create the Player Impact Program ... a monumental moment for player pay.

Earthquake New Special's a Game Changer!!! All Thanks to Dave Chappelle

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THANKS TO DAVE
TMZ.com

Stand-up comedian Earthquake has the biggest platform of his more than 30-year career, and he's giving Dave Chappelle all the props for giving him the big break.

Earthquake joined us Tuesday on "TMZ Live" to talk more about his upcoming special, "Legendary" ... the first of Dave's 4-part series, "Chappelle's Home Team." He told us, he's flattered Dave "reached back" to give comedians like himself such a huge opportunity to reach a wider audience.

Of course, Dave sparked lots of controversy for Netflix last year after his special, "The Closer," pissed off LGBTQ+ groups and some employees at the streaming service.

Rather than shying away, Netflix is capitalizing on its relationship with Dave ... and Earthquake and other comedians are benefitting. Earthquake says it all started with a surprising call -- which he thought was a prank -- from Netflix execs.

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DAVE'S ANNOUNCEMENT
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Chappelle won't be doing any stand-up specials this time around, but he is executive producing all of them and recording intros for the comedians. BTW, Earthquake gave us some insider intel about the other comedians who will be featured.

His special drops Feb. 28, or as Chappelle puts it ... "Tune in the last day of Black History Month so we can make one last day of history.”

Knicks Mitchell Robinson My Dad Is Missing ... 'Come Home Pops'

Mitchell Robinson's dad is missing ... and the New York Knicks center is asking everyone for help finding him.

Robinson -- who was drafted in the second round by the Knicks in 2018 -- expressed concern on social media ... saying his dad, Mitchell Robinson Jr., has been MIA since Feb 13.

"My dad is missing if you have info on his whereabouts please contact 850-436-9620," the number for the Escambia County Sheriff's Dept., Mitchell wrote.

Days later, Robinson once again took to social media ... pleading with the public to help him locate his father.

"Don't know a place the devil will hide you ... Come home pops," Robinson wrote on his Instagram story.

The Escambia County Sherriff's Office is aware of Robinson Jr.'s disappearance ... and reports that Robinson Jr. was actually last seen on Feb 11.

The sheriff's office is currently investigating the manner ... and shared a photo of Mitchell's dad, as well information surrounding his last whereabouts on its Facebook page.

Robinson has played in 53 games for the Knicks this season ... and has seen an increase in his productivity and efficiency across the board.

Robinson and the ESCO are urging anyone with information on his father's whereabouts to call 850-436-9620.

Procol Harum Singer Gary Brooker Dead at 76 ... Wrote '60s Classic, 'Whiter Shade of Pale'

Gary Brooker, the singer who put '60s British rock group Procol Harum on the map with an iconic hit of the 'Summer of Love,' is skipping the light fandango in heaven now.

Gary died Saturday after battling cancer according to a statement released by the band. They say their lead singer and pianist died peacefully at his home.

Procol Harum is best remembered for their 1967 hit, "A Whiter Shade of Pale" -- it was co-written by Gary, and became an anthem of the famous 'Summer of Love' in San Francisco.

The Hammond organ-heavy track is one of those '60s hits everyone kinda knows when ya hear it -- and the lyrics and their meaning have long been debated in rock history.

Just a sample:
"One of sixteen vestal virgins
Who were leaving for the coast
And although my eyes were open
They might have just as well've been closed"

Most critics and fans agree the haunting song is about a psychedelic or drunken sexual encounter. Let's face it ... there were lots of those back in '67 when Procol Harum formed!

The song's been covered by other artists countless times, and the OG single sold more than 10 million copies. The band broke up in 1977, but reunited in the '90s and continued to perform here and there until 2018.

Brooker's bandmates said, "The single defining constant of the band's 50-year career, Gary's voice and piano playing was legendary and he leaves behind a legacy that will last for generations. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him."

Gary was 76. RIP

Daniel Radcliffe Let's Get Weird!!!

Here's Daniel Radcliffe getting very much into character as Weird Al Yankovic ... talking to and getting tips from the legend himself!!!

Daniel's going all-in on the "weird" look for an upcoming biopic on the parody singer ... as you can see he's rocking a mustache, huge afro wig, checkerboard Vans, a Hawaiian shirt and some round wire-frame glasses.

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CHILLIN' ON SET
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Al was keeping a watchful eye from the sidelines as Daniel filmed some scenes Monday in Los Angeles for "WEIRD: The 'Weird Al' Yankovic Story" ... and in between takes Al and Daniel chopped it up on set.

It's likely Daniel was turning to Weird Al for some guidance on how to best play the role ... mannerisms, situations and whatnot ... and the pair really seemed to get along, even sharing a few laughs during some animated conversations.

Weird Al's certainly a larger-than-life character ... just check out his flowing locks and flashy button-down shirt ... but it seems Daniel is up to the task.

Prince Harry & Meghan Markle We Don't Beef with All the Royals ... We Had Real Beef with Princess Eugenie!!!

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got a taste of what they left behind in the U.K. ... because one of the royals made her way to the U.S. for a little chow and a little conversation.

Princess Eugenie and hubby Jack Brooksbank broke bread with Harry and Meghan in Santa Barbara over the weekend.

It seems Harry and Eugenie have a close connection ... closer than he has with some of the other royals, including his dad and his brother.

Harry took Eugenie to the Super Bowl the weekend before ... so it sure seems the 2 are pretty close.

They certainly have a U.K. connection ... Eugenie and Jack now live in Frogmore Cottage ... the same place Harry and Meghan lived before bolting England.

The dinner came on the heels of a grievance Harry had about the royals protecting his kids.  As we reported, Harry will not take Archie and Lilibet to the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in June because the fam refuses to provide security for the kids.

So, in a way, dinner with Eugenie is like the mountain coming to Muhammed.

Junior Hockey Cops Investigating Player ... After Violent Ref Punch

Cops tell TMZ Sports they are investigating the junior hockey player who violently punched a referee during a game in Massachusetts on Sunday.

A spokesperson for the Foxborough Police Dept. confirmed on Tuesday that cops were called to the Foxborough Sports Center at around 2:22 PM on Sunday after a member of the South Shore Kings had unloaded a right hand into the face of a ref in the middle of a game.

Cops tell us they have yet to determine if there is a "criminal element" ... but did say they are aware of the video of the punch and are currently interviewing all of the involved parties.

"At this time no further information will be released," the spokesperson said, "as it is still under investigation."

As we previously reported, the United States Premier Hockey League hit the player with a lifetime ban from its league over the punch.

"The action taken today by a USPHL player is completely unacceptable in the USPHL," the league's commissioner said in a statement following the incident, "The USPHL has zero-tolerance for any player striking any official, at any time."

Ahmaud Arbery's Killers Federal Hate Crimes Verdict In ... Guilty On All Counts

The men who chased down and murdered Ahmaud Arbery committed a hate crime in the process of their fatal actions ... and they've all just been convicted of that offense.

The 12-jurors in the federal hate crime trial reached their decision Tuesday after a weeklong trial ... in which prosecutors argued the motivation behind the murder was hatred toward Arbery because of his race. As such Travis, Gregory McMichael and William 'Roddie' Bryan were all convicted.

All three men faced one count of interference of Arbery's civil rights, plus attempted kidnapping. The McMichaels were also charged with using, carrying and brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence.

Travis -- the one who actually shot and killed Arbery on the road -- was also hit with a count of using a firearm in relation to a violent crime. The feds alleged these acts were racially motivated ... hence, why the case fell within the purview of federal hate crime laws.

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IN COLD BLOOD

Prosecutors pointed to racist messages they claimed had been posted or exchanged by the defendants -- specifically zeroing in on Travis McMichael, who allegedly once said Black people needed to be made examples of in white vs. Black confrontations.

Prosecutors also claimed the men had used racially charged language -- be it in writing, or verbally -- at one point or another. In addition to this, the feds claim Bryan himself told cops he'd heard the McMichaels use a racist epithet to describe Ahmaud after he'd fallen to the ground.

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SENTENCED TO LIFE
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The men, meanwhile, insisted they weren't racist, and that the chase wasn't motivated by race.

Obviously, the jury didn't believe them.

As you know, the McMichaels and Bryan were all previously found guilty in state court ... and were each sentenced to life in prison. The McMichaels have no chance of ever getting out because they got life without the possibility of parole ... Bryan's sentence, however, didn't have that condition, so he could presumably be released one day, but the federal conviction -- which carries a potential life sentence -- makes his release unlikely.

Wendy Williams TV Show Officially Ends ... It's Sherri Shepherd's Show Now

"The Wendy Williams Show" is no more ... and it will become "Sherri."

Wendy has been dealing with serious health issues for months now. TMZ broke the story, the TV honchos that carry the show said Sherri Shepherd became the permanent guest host and they were monitoring Wendy's heath and, if it didn't get better, the change would become permanent.

Now, the show's producers said Tuesday, "This is also a bitter-sweet moment for us and our partners at Fox. We all have great love and affinity for Wendy, who grew into a true icon during her 12 incredible seasons as the solo host of a live, daily talk show dishing on 'Hot Topics' and interviewing celebrities."

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THE BIG ANNOUNCEMENT
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As for Sherri, she's tried and true ... appearing on "The View," "Dish Nation," and, of course, 'Wendy.'

We got Sherri out Monday night in New York and she was non-committal about the change, saying she was still just a temp.

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KEEPIN' IT MUM
TMZ.com

Wendy was down with Sherri as her temp replacement, although she was hoping to return, but apparently, her health struggles have not gotten better.

It's unclear if the name of the show will change immediately, but the official launch for Sherri's show will be in September.

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