Travis Scott Whips New Ride Multi-Million $$ Price Tag!!!

There's absolutely no question -- Travis Scott is getting on with his life -- selling out his Nike collab, hitting massive stages again ... and now whipping around in a $5.5 million ride.

We got photos of the rappers brand new Bugatti Veyron Chiron Super Sport Tuesday in Brentwood -- a vehicle with a starting price of around $3.5 million. We're told the one Travis received cost even more ... and considering there are only 30 made, calling it "rare" would be an understatement.

Travis also shared a photo from inside the whip while he sat in the driver's seat -- highlighting the blue interior.

Of course, Scott's still locked in litigation stemming from the 10 lives lost at Astroworld in November. While he's allowed to move on with his life, you gotta imagine the families behind the lawsuits will feel a certain kinda way about Travis' latest flashy purchase.

As we've told you ... Travis has maintained from the beginning he had no idea of how serious things were in the crowd while he performed and people were dying.

051522_travis_scott_kal MAY 2022
RETURNING TO THE STAGE
NBC

Travis will take the stage soon at his first major gig back since the tragedy when he headlines Day N Vegas Festival in Las Vegas in September. He'll then head to Sao Paolo to headline Primavera Sound in November.

Luenell Black Folks Still Not Over Nipsey Hussle's Death ... We 'Hate Eric Holder's Bitch Ass'

062122_its_tricky_luenell_kal
CONSTANTLY ON OUR MINDS
It's Tricky with Raquel Harper

Black folks are pissed off and deeply traumatized by Nipsey Hussle's murder, with a new wave of emotions coming back up during his alleged murderer's trial ... so says Luenell.

The comedy vet chatted with Raquel Harper Tuesday on the 'It's Tricky' podcast. Luenell says she lives near the area where Nipsey was shot, and to drive by the spot almost daily feels like some sort of post-traumatic stress.

She also addressed Nip's alleged killer, Eric Holder, who is currently on trial, saying, "The Black community don't hate nobody as much as they hate Eric Holder's bitch ass."

She also says there are a lot of people praying, if convicted, Holder's placed in general population. Luenell doesn't spell it out, but her insinuation's clear ... inmates are ready to get revenge.

040119_nip_kal 4/1/19
COLD-BLOODED

Holder's trial kicked off in L.A. last week, 3 years after Nipsey was killed, and we've already heard the grisly details from the day Holder allegedly pulled the trigger -- including his final words to Nipsey before the rapper died.

Luenell says she's at the point where she feels she needs to move away from Crenshaw, as the reminders throughout the neighborhood of what happened to Nip have become too much to handle.

She also sends her love to Lauren London, who has a son with Nipsey and was dating the rapper when he died. Luenell believes a part of Lauren died with Nipsey.

The full 'It's Tricky' episode is available now.

Priscilla Presley Austin Butler Plays a Perfect Elvis The Internet is Wrong!!!

062122-priscilla-presley-kal 6/21/22
JOB WELL DONE
TMZ.com

Priscilla Presley, the ex-wife of Elvis Presley, thinks Austin Butler did a stunning job playing the late performer ... and says the internet should pipe down on the scathing critiques.

We got Priscilla outside the Chinese Theater in Hollywood Tuesday -- she was amongst other members of the Presley family as they left their handprints in cement in front of the theater ahead of the new film's release.

Waiting for your permission to load TikTok Post.

She says AB is just fantastic in his depiction ... and thinks the people talkin' smack don't know Elvis the way she did. Priscilla says she felt just like she was watching her ex-husband up on the big screen ... even though Butler's gotten some harsh criticism online for the portrayal.

Users on TikTok tore the actor apart after the studios posted a scene, trying to get a viral challenge going --  but social media trolls said an impersonator from Vegas could've done a better job.

Priscilla and the rest of the fam aren't listening to the noise ... and think Austin should do the same.

Wiz Khalifa Lists L.A. Mansion ... But Isn't Moving Far

Wiz Khalifa's currently living large in a new spot not too far from his old one, which means he has an extra mansion on his hands ... but he's trying to change that.

We've just learned the Taylor Gang general is putting his former pad in Encino up for $4,495,000 -- which is $1 million more than he originally paid for the crib back in January 2019.

Seems like a steal of a deal for the next buyer ... the super-smart home features 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling glass doors and custom fireplaces. On the more exotic end of amenities, it's got a home movie theater, a waterfall, pool and a spa.

Alan Taylor of Compass and Brian Capossela with Cap Equity hold the listing.

Wiz is currently resting his head just a few miles up the street in a newly built $7.6 mansion.

The upgraded spot has a lot of the same features as his old place ... but he's added an extra guesthouse and a gym. We know how much Wiz loves his workouts.

He'll only have a limited amount of time to get moved in ... his Vinyl Verse Tour with Logic begins on July 27.

Hailey Bieber New Skincare Line Sued By Same-Name Company ... You Stole Our Name

UPDATE

11:37 AM PT -- A source connected to Hailey's brand tells us she owns the trademark for skincare, and the other Rhode holds the trademark for clothing. The source also points to the fact Hailey's legal name is Hailey Rhode Bieber.

Hailey Bieber and her new skincare line are being dragged to court already ... they're getting sued for trademark infringement by a fashion line of the same name.

According to legal docs obtained by TMZ, clothing company Rhode NYC claims Hailey and her business, Rhode, taken from her middle name, could easily wash away all the hard work they've put into their brand.

They say Hailey and co. previously tried to acquire the "RHODE" trademark but owners Purna Khatau and Phoebe Vickers refused to give it up. Rhode NYC, founded in 2013, claims the "Rhode" logo looks very similar to the one they have.

They believe Hailey's celebrity status is the reason her company is already taking off ... not to mention her famous husband Justin Bieber has also promoted the company to his 243 million Instagram followers.

The owners say they've already faced issues online ... people have been tagging Hailey's company by mistake instead of theirs, which they think shows there is clearly consumer confusion.

They are asking the judge to force Hailey's company to stop using the Rhode name and come up with something else to avoid further confusion and harm to their brand.

Delonte West Says He's Okay After Panhandling Video ... 'I'm In Between Jobs'

062122_delonte_west-kal
FEELING THANKFUL
The Image Direct

Delonte West says there's nothing to worry about after video of him panhandling in the streets went viral last week ... insisting he's doing okay, and is actively looking for a job.

Remember, we broke the news in February that the former NBA guard -- who's publicly battled mental health and addiction issues -- was back on the right track, training to make the Big 3.

But, last week, a fan shared video on social media showing West, looking disheveled, panhandling in the streets of Virginia ... and it caught many off guard.

So, when Image Direct caught up with the 38-year-old this week, they asked Delonte if he was doing okay, and why he was on the streets asking for money.

"It is what it is," West said.

"I got children. I'm in between jobs. People can help me as much as they can, but you know, as a man I gotta do what I gotta do for my babies."

031222_delonte_west_kal_v2
STILL GOT IT
@thebig3/Twitter

As for the Big 3, West says there were so many talented players there he understands why he didn't make the cut ... but he's thankful for the chance.

"I was excited to have the opportunity," West said, "I'll be there next season. I'll be there rooting guys on."

Despite a bunch of tough breaks, the 8-year NBA vet seemingly isn't letting some difficult times discourage him ... saying he'll keep working hard and hopes to be a part of an NBA coaching staff soon.

"I'm always involved in the game I love. Last year, I was scouting for the Dallas Mavericks and the previous three years, I was an NBA scout for the Boston Celtics."

032122_delonte_west_kal 3/21/22
BACK IN ACTION
YouTube/DONOVAN THE ENTERTAINER

West added, "I was actually looking forward to being a head coach or assistant coach in the NBA this season but like I said, it's a business that have a lot of people involved and wanna stay involved."

"Prayerfully, luckily I'll be up for discussion this upcoming season."

We're rooting for you, Delonte!

Twista My Gun Safety Camp Combats Violence

062122_twista_kal
FOCUSING ON THE POSITIVES
TMZ.com

Twista knows gun violence is a huge issue in his hometown, and he believes educating the public about proper firearm usage can go a long way toward making the country safer.

The Chicago rap veteran joined "TMZ Live" Tuesday to discuss his firearm education course, "The Gun Camp," where he trains civilians to be smarter with weapons.

In the wake of the Buffalo and Ulvade mass shootings -- not to mention the continued spree of shootings in the Chi -- gun control and reform are once again front-burner debate topics ... but Twista's firmly embracing the "blame people, not guns" theory.

Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.

He repeated the oft-used line about it being the person behind the gun who ultimately makes fatal decisions.

As for the AR-15 -- which, according to polls, most Americans support banning -- Twista says there are many misconceptions about the rifle frequently used in mass shootings. He's optimistic that if people open up to the notion there can be positive ways to use firearms -- such as organized competitions -- they'll get past what he calls "negative vibes" portrayed in the news.

Of course, when the news is reporting, not portraying, a school shooting that takes the lives of 19 children ... it's hard to focus on anything uplifting.

Still, Twista says most of the response in Chicago to his Gun Camp has been positive, and he's leaning on the idea that law-abiding, safety-minded gun owners are a good thing for all communities.

And, therein lies the debate.

Rob Gronkowski I'm Retiring ... Again

UPDATE

12:44 PM PT -- Tom Brady just weighed in on his BFF's retirement ... writing in a sweet note on Gronk's Instagram page, "Love you as a man, teammate and friend. One of a kind in every way❤️"

UPDATE

He later added in a lengthier post on his own IG page, "Having Gronk in your locker room was every NFL players dream. I'm proud of all that we've accomplished together, and even more excited for all you have ahead of you.

UPDATE

Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.

UPDATE

The Buccaneers also wished Gronk a goodbye in a statement Tuesday afternoon, calling the tight end "a true professional who left it all on the field for us the past two seasons and helped establish a championship culture in our building."

Rob Gronkowski is once again hanging up his cleats ... the legendary tight end has just retired from football for the second time in his career.

The Tampa Bay star announced the news Tuesday ... this after he initially came out of retirement to play with Tom Brady and the Bucs in 2020.

In his two seasons with TB12 in Florida since, he won another Super Bowl ring ... and caught 100 more passes for 1,425 yards and 13 TDs.

"I want to thank the whole entire first class Buccaneers organization for an amazing ride, trusting me to come back to play and help build a championship team," Gronk said in a lengthy retirement post on his Instagram page.

Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.

"I will now be going back into my retirement home, walking away from football again with my head held high knowing I gave it everything I had, good or bad, every time I stepped out on the field."

Gronk first called it quits following the 2018 season ... saying after a 9-year stint with Brady and the New England Patriots, his body didn't feel well enough to keep going.

Gronk had toyed with the idea of coming back for a third season in Tampa Bay this offseason, telling TMZ Sports he was staying "in shape" just in case he got the itch to play again. But, apparently, that itch never came ... and he seemed sure of his decision in his announcement Tuesday.

042722-rob-gronkowski-kal 4/29/22
FOCUSED ON PARTYIN'
TMZSports.com

"From retirement, back to football and winning another championship and now back to chilling out," Gronk said, "thank you to all."

What's interesting ... Gronk's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said there is at least a small chance this isn't the end of Rob's historic career ... telling ESPN's Adam Schefter, "It would not surprise me if Tom Brady calls him during the season to come back and Rob answers the call. This is just my opinion but I wouldn't be surprised if Rob comes back during the season or next season."

But, for now, it seems the 33-year-old is really done.

See ya in five years in Canton!

Originally Published -- 11:30 AM PT

Elon Musk Ex-Wife Backs Daughter's Last Name Change ... 'Very Proud of You!!!'

Elon Musk's ex-wife is squarely in the corner of their daughter, saying she's proud of the 18-year-old ... amid her now very public rift with her father.

Justine Wilson, a novelist who was married to Elon from 2000 to 2008, weighed in on Vivian's legal filing to have her gender identity changed to female, and to change her full name ... including dropping her dad's famous last name.

She tweeted a convo she recently had with one of her children, and while Vivian has a twin brother, Griffin, the timing makes it pretty clear this was a chat with Vivian.

Justine says her 18-year-old said, "I can't believe I'm as normal-seeming as I am," after having what she calls a "weird childhood." Justine replied, "I'm very proud of you," to which Vivian said, "I'm proud of myself!"

The proud mother's tweet dropped right after the story broke about Vivian's desire to change her name to Vivian Jenna Wilson. What's interesting about Justine's very public support is that Vivian's made it clear she's got beef with Elon.

In the docs she says, "I no longer live with or wish to be related to my biological father in any way, shape or form."

Neither Elon nor Vivian previously said anything publicly about their relationship or her transition ... but back in December 2020, Elon tweeted he supports the transgender community, but added ... "All these pronouns are an esthetic nightmare."

While Justine hasn't said anything directly about Elon yet, there's little doubt who she's backing in the daddy-daughter feud.

'X Factor' Star Tom Mann Fiancee Dies Suddenly on Wedding Day ... Simon Cowell Offers Condolences to Family

UPDATE

11:02 AM PT -- Simon Cowell, who served as a judge during Tom's time on the show, just released an emotional statement about Dani's death, telling TMZ, "As a father myself, I simply cannot imagine the heartbreak Tom and his family are going through and will be personally reaching out to him. From my family to his, we extend our deepest condolences and all of our love during this tragic time."

"The X Factor" star Tom Mann suffered a horrible tragedy over the weekend ... his fiancee died just hours before their wedding.

Dani Hampson, a 34-year-old publicist, had no apparent health issues and the cause of her death has not been revealed.

She had posted pics of her and Tom, along with their 8-month-old son Bowie, just days before she died.

Tom and Dani were actually supposed to get married Sept. 25, 2020, but the pandemic got in the way. At the time she posted, "I can't wait to marry you, but the world has other plans."

Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.

Dani also had posted a video of Tom -- a member of the group Stereo Kicks -- singing Elton John and Dua Lipa's song, "Cold Heart."

She used the song to wish Bowie, "Happy 6 months my darling boy." She wrote, "I played this song almost every day of my 3rd trimester, it was in my labour playlist & it was number 1 the day Bowie was born… determined for it to be "our song" & for it always remind us of life's good bits."

Tom announced Dani's death Monday, calling her the "brightest light in any room," adding he will miss her forever. He told his followers, "I can't believe I am writing these words but my darling Dani - my best friend, my everything and more, the love of my life - passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning, 18th June. On what was supposed to be the happiest day of our lives ended in irreversible heartbreak."

He went on to say, "I am completely broken trying to process this and I honestly don't know where to go from here, but I do know I need to use any strength I can muster for our little boy."

Tom auditioned as a solo singer for 'X Factor' back in 2014, but producers created the group, Stereo Kicks, of which he was a member.

Dani was 34.

RIP

Originally Published -- 6:40 AM PT

Kim & Kanye Communicating & Co-Parenting ... Even Breaking Bread!!!

The deafening silence between Kim Kardashian and Kanye West is slowly becoming audible ... because we've learned the couple is communicating again and even able to attend events together with their kids.

As we reported, both mom and dad attended North's basketball game over the weekend ... and while they didn't sit shoulder to shoulder, we're told Kim and Kanye drove to and from the game together with North in the car.

The co-parenting didn't stop with North -- sources close to both say Kim and Kanye also attended a family lunch Saturday, following a dance recital for Chicago.

When we say it was a family lunch, we mean it ... Kris, Grandma MJ, Kylie, Travis Scott, Khloe and Tristan all grubbed out at Sagebrush Cantina in Calabasas.

We posted photos of the lunch, but Kim and Kanye were nowhere to be seen, even though we now know they were present.

While we're told the relationship's still obviously a work-in-progress. They're able to communicate on issues involving their 4 kids, but that's about it. We're told any talk of dating just doesn't happen.

Kim wished Kanye a Happy Father's Day Sunday, sharing sweet words about her ex-hubby with photos of Ye in dad mode. Kanye also spent Father's Day at the family home with Kim and the kids.

Considering where Kim and Kanye were just a few months ago -- their progress is game-changing -- Kim has always maintained she wants Kanye to be with their kids as much as possible, provided they work around the children's schedules.

Of course, there have been some significant bumps in the road -- but we haven't seen any social media attacks toward Kim or bf Pete Davidson since Ye was suspended from Instagram back in March.

Deshaun Watson 20 Lawsuits Against QB Settled ... Accusers' Attorney Says

The attorney representing the two dozen women accusing Deshaun Watson of sexual misconduct says all but four of the lawsuits against the NFL star have now been settled.

The accusers' lawyer, Tony Buzbee, just made the announcement ... saying in a statement, "Today I announce that all cases against Deshaun Watson, with the exception of four, have settled."

"We are working through the paperwork related to those settlements. Once we have done so, those particular cases will be dismissed."

Buzbee added, "The terms and amounts of the settlements are confidential. We won’t comment further on the settlements or those cases."

As we previously reported, 24 different female massage therapists -- all represented by Buzbee -- had accused Watson of wrongdoing in 24 separate lawsuits filed over the past 15 months in Harris County, Texas.

The women, according to the suits, alleged Watson was inappropriate with them during what was supposed to be professional massage sessions.

061422-deshaun-watson-kal 6/14/22
'I NEVER ASSAULTED ANYONE'
Cleveland Browns

Watson -- who was not arrested and not criminally charged over the allegations -- had denied all wrongdoing repeatedly ... reiterating just last week he "never assaulted any woman."

Watson has yet to comment on Buzbee's announcement.

Buzbee said Ashley Solis' lawsuit is one of the four against Watson that still remains unsettled. Solis was the first massage therapist to step forward in 2021 and accuse Watson of misconduct.

"Ashley Solis is one of the heroes of this story," Buzbee said. "Her case has not settled and thus her story and that of the other three brave women will continue. I look forward to trying these cases in due course, consistent with other docket obligations and the court’s schedule.”

Caleb Swanigan Dead At 25 ... Ex-Purdue Star, Former NBA 1st-Round Pick

Tragic news ... Caleb Swanigan -- the former Purdue star who was later picked in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft -- has died at 25 years old.

A spokesperson for the Allen County Coroner’s Office in Indiana tells TMZ Sports ... the ex-Boilermaker center died of natural causes.

In a statement released Tuesday morning, the Purdue men's basketball team said Swanigan passed on Monday night.

"Devastated," the school's team's account wrote in a tweet. "Our thoughts and prayers to Caleb Swanigan’s family and friends. The world lost a gentle soul last night. Love you Biggie."

Purdue head coach Matt Painter added in a statement, "Biggie had a positive influence in everyone's life. Was such a thoughtful person and gentle soul who had to overcome so much in his life. He will be greatly missed."

Before starring at Purdue, Swanigan compiled one of the greatest high school basketball careers ever in the history of the state of Indiana.

The 6-foot-9, 260-pound hooper was a five-star recruit, who earned McDonald's All-American honors after averaging 22.6 points and 13.7 rebounds per game in his senior season.

During his two years with the Boilermakers, Swanigan averaged 14.4 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. He was eventually taken by the Portland Trailblazers with the 26th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft.

Swanigan played in the NBA with the Trailblazers and the Sacramento Kings until 2020.

Damian Lillard, who played with Swanigan in Portland, paid homage to Swanigan in an Instagram post Tuesday ... writing, "Rest In Peace Big."

The Trailblazers added in a statement, "We are heartbroken by the passing of former Trail Blazers player Caleb Swanigan. Our thoughts and prayers are with Caleb’s family, friends and all who loved him. Rest In Peace, Biggie."

Off the court, Swanigan had a music career -- rapping under the name "Slyy5jackk." He released several songs including "Thoughts/THOTS" and "My Life" in 2021.

Swanigan had just put out a music video called "Acquired Taste" in April ... and according to the rapper's IG, a new project was coming soon.

#RIP

Stephen Colbert My Staff IS Guilty ... Of Puppetry in D.C., Not Insurrection!!!

062122-stephen-colbert-kal
CAPITOL CHAOS
CBS

Stephen Colbert totally gets why his staffers, including Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, now have rap sheets with Capitol Police ... but he's really amused they're being compared to the Jan. 6th insurrectionists.

Colbert dove into the big story around his office during Monday night's episode of 'The Late Show' ... explaining everything that led up to the big bust in Washington. As we reported, cops busted 9 of his staffers -- including Robert Smigel, who typically has his hand up Triumph's ass -- while they were recording bits Thursday evening in the hallways of Congressional offices.

Doesn't sound like SC holds any grudges ... as he put it, the CPD officers were just doing their jobs, and so were my staff -- and he even acknowledged the fact Capitol Police have to be a bit more on edge since Jan. 6, 2021.

But, he says the whole story went haywire for him when he started seeing headlines about Triumph pulling off a Capitol insurrection 2.0!

While laughing, but also genuinely shocked, he points out ... "An insurrection involves interrupting the lawful action of Congress and howling for the blood of elected leaders, all to prevent the peaceful transfer of power."

He added all Triumph and co. were doing was "First-degree puppetry!!! This was hijinks with intent to goof." Hilariously, he admits cops should ring them up on charges for "Misappropriation of an old Conan [O'Brien] bit."

The 'Late Show' staff had been shooting outside the offices of House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Rep. Lauren Boebert -- and cops say they didn't have proper ID to be there on their own.

Colbert hasn't revealed the footage yet -- maybe it's in police custody -- but you can bet he's gonna have a field day with it when the time's right.

Prince William Celebrates 40th Bday!!! Dad Leads Online Tributes

It's a special day for Prince William, and his father -- first in line to the throne -- is leading the charge to honor his oldest son, and future King of England, on hitting the ol' 4-0.

Prince Charles did that typical parent thing ... busting out old pics of himself with Will, from his birth, his adolescence and right up to current day -- and he wrote, "Wishing The Duke of Cambridge a very happy 40th birthday!"

Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.

Of course, the current monarch, Queen Elizabeth, also had some words and pics for her grandson ... but it might be the most royally royal birthday message ever.

The pics posted to Her Majesty's Family account are accompanied by said caption ... "Prince William Arthur Philip Louis is the elder son of The Prince of Wales and Diana, Princess of Wales. He was born at 9.03pm on 21 June 1982, at St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington, London."

Ya gotta read it with a British accent.

Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.

The IG post included more infant pics and moments the Queen and William have shared together.

Worth noting ... William's bro, Prince Harry, hasn't posted any birthday wishes yet. It's still early on the West Coast, but it'll be interesting to see if he does mention the milestone amid their rift.

Apparently, Prince William and Kate Middleton will reportedly celebrate "in style" with a joint 40th Bday party at Windsor Castle.

Her birthday was back in January but the celebrations were reportedly nixed due to COVID-19.

Interestingly, the Duke's birthday will not be marked this year by the flying of the Union Jack over government buildings. That honor is now reserved for the Queen and Prince Charles' birthdays.

"Succession." What are ya gonna do? Happy birthday anyway, William.

Pittsburgh Pirates Staffers Can't Corral Loose Squirrel On Field ... Hilarious Video

Three Pittsburgh Pirates staffers looked more like "The Three Stooges" on Monday night ... because they failed to corral a squirrel that had gotten loose in the outfield during a game -- and it was comical.

The little critter jetted out into left field during the second inning of the Buccos' game against the Chicago Cubs ... and a short time later, Pirates officials apparently thought it'd be good to send three guys out with a bucket, a towel and a net to get it away from players.

Turns out ... that was not a great idea.

Check out video from the game's broadcast, the trio hilariously tried everything they could to capture the squirrel -- but the animal juked them at every turn.

Eventually, the squirrel grew tired of making the guys look silly -- and bolted through a fence.

The scene was so hysterical, the MLB even had some fun with it ... tweeting out, "sandy cheeks wildin."

The Pirates, though, didn't let the failed efforts to capture the squirrel dampen their night ... they got a huge game from some star rookies, and beat the Cubs easily, 12-1.