Maggie Smith Gone, But Not Forgotten ... 'Harry Potter' Fans Tribute Late Legend

Maggie Smith may be gone, but she'll live on forever in the Wizarding World ... 'cause "Harry Potter" fans have been tributing her ever since her death was announced yesterday.

The legendary actress -- who played Professor McGonagall is seven of the eight films -- inspired several "Harry Potter" related tributes with one of the largest taking place outside Hogwarts ... the replica at Universal Orlando, that is.

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FOR PROFESSOR MCGONAGALL
X / @anniesupdate

Check out the clip ... a group of fans congregated outside the castle -- which houses a popular ride in the theme park -- wands raised to the sky. It's an homage to the sixth 'HP' movie after Professor Dumbledore dies to ward off the darkness ... led by Maggie, of course.

Johnny Depp Bringing Back the Captain For Kids ... Dresses Up As Jack Sparrow, Visits Hospital

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BACK AS JACK
Gina Deuters

Captain Jack Sparrow's back ... not in "Pirates of the Caribbean 6" necessarily -- but, Johnny Depp's resurrected the character to cheer up some kids going through a rough time.

The actor stopped by a children's hospital in San Sebastián, Spain ... dressed as his loveable pirate Captain Jack -- complete with the eyeliner, dreads and his slightly drunken walk.

Check out the video ... JD's got a cheerful hello for the doctors working hard at the locale -- appearing to drop the character later on to have a meaningful convo with some of the medical staff on-site.

Scottie Pippen Shooting Doc On Game 5 Basketball ... From Historic '91 NBA Finals!

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MORE THAN JUST A BALL
TMZSports.com

Scottie Pippen is jumping into the documentary game -- the NBA legend tells us he's linking up with a top filmmaker, and they're creating a series chronicling the 1990-1991 Chicago Bulls, focusing on the actual game ball from the title-clinching game!

"We're looking to do a documentary on this basketball because we think that there's a lot of stories to be told," Pippen told Babcock on the TMZ Sports TV show (airs nightly on FS1).

"I think that ball really was a start of a dynasty and almost, I want to say, the end of a great dynasty in the Los Angeles Lakers, who we've known for many years in the '80s as 'Showtime,'" Scottie said, explaining the significance of the basketball.

What's The Big Frigin' Difference?!

Hayden Panettiere is making her big return to acting and she's here to stump you with some minor changes. Examine the two photos and see if you've got what it takes to track 'em down ... Nothing's a shoe-in with these sneaky switcharoos!

Making a stop by the "Drew Barrymore Show" earlier this week, the 35-year-old mama showed off a fresh new blond 'do while promoting her newest movie "Amber Alert". She dressed perfectly for a fall day in NYC, but some things just aren't buttoning up properly ...

HINT: There are THREE differences in the above Hayden Panettiere photos!**

Vivica A. Fox 'Lost Holliday' Only Getting Love ... Jussie Smollett's Making Career Comeback!!!

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START OF THE COMEBACK
TMZ.com

Vivica A. Fox says her nephew Jussie Smollett has his career back on track ... claiming fans love the new movie they worked on together -- fully separating art from the artist.

We caught up with the actress at LAX on Friday ... and, we had to ask her about how audiences were receiving her new flick, "The Lost Holliday" -- and, whether opinions about Smollett have contributed to criticism of the movie.

VAF points out "The Lost Holliday" has played in theaters all over the world ... from London to New York to Los Angeles -- and, so far, she says it's only received positive reviews.

Barbara Leigh-Hunt Dead at 88 ... Known for Alfred Hitchcock's 'Frenzy'

Barbara Leigh-Hunt, a legendary actress of the stage and screen, has died ... her family has confirmed.

The British star, who was best known for appearing in Alfred Hitchcock's 1972 thriller, "Frenzy," died peacefully in her home in Warwickshire, England on Monday, Sept. 16.

She leaves behind a 7-decade-long acting legacy, which includes one of Hitchcock's most controversial movie scenes.

Maggie Smith Dead at 89 ... 'Downton Abbey,' McGonagall From 'Potter'

Maggie Smith -- a legendary actress who worked professionally for more than 70 years -- has died ... according to a statement from her family.

Her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, released a statement ... saying Smith passed away in the hospital peacefully early Friday morning. They did not give a cause of death.

Smith's family thanked the staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and support during their mother's final days ... and asked for privacy during this trying time.

George Clooney Hyping Up Wife Amal At Charity Event!!!

George and Amal Clooney hit their 10-year wedding milestone this month, and the actor's still in full swoon mode ... laying it on thick with compliments and support at their charity bash.

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The actor was all about the wife goals at the Clooney Foundation for Justice's The Albies in NYC Thursday ... giving props to Amal for always being on the right side of history and making it clear he was extremely proud to be in the same room with her.

George hyped up Amal ... saying he'd support her in anything, anytime. He explained the night was about shining some of the limelight on unsung heroes fighting for justice.

'Happy Gilmore' Gator Nemesis ... Open To Role In Sequel!!!

If there's a scene in the new "Happy Gilmore" script that requires a gator to snap at a golfer's arm ... the handler for the reptile that played the part in the OG flick tells TMZ Sports it's down to reprise the role.

The alligator -- nicknamed "Morris" -- has been enjoying the sweet life at the Colorado Gators Reptile Park in Mosca ever since it gained fame for stealing Adam Sandler's golf ball in the 1996 "Happy Gilmore" movie ... but its owner, Jay Young, says it's willing to come out of retirement for the highly anticipated sequel.

Young, though, says Sandler and Co. would have to jump through some hoops to make it all work out ... as the 70ish-year-old, 500-pound beast simply can't be transported these days.

Catherine Zeta-Jones I'm In My Birthday Suit For Michael ... Ran Out of Gift Ideas!!!

Catherine Zeta-Jones is out of gift ideas for Michael Douglas after a quarter-century of sharing a birthday ... so Michael's present this year is seeing his wife in her birthday suit!!!

The actress posted a nude as part of a birthday tribute to Michael on social media, joking she didn't know what else to give him after 25 trips around the sun together.

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Catherine, who looks amazing by the way, says the tasteful nude is gift option number two ... with golf balls being option one "of course."

Austin Butler Teams Up With Bad Bunny On Movie Set ... Filming Gritty Scenes

Austin Butler's back in action on set, filming scenes for his new movie "Caught Stealing" -- and he's got some star-studded company, teaming up with none other than Bad Bunny.

The rapper was almost unrecognizable in a dark red hairdo and matching beard as the cameras rolled in NYC Wednesday, and Oscar nominee Austin was splattered with fake blood -- so you can bet your bottom dollar they’re diving deep into the gritty crime thriller.

Looks like they got a lot of action in the can during the evening shoot for Darren Aronofsky's upcoming film. At one point, Austin and Bunny were locked in an intense scene, cruising around in a car ... in another scene, Zoë Kravitz joined Austin in a bar setting.

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Lady Gaga Quinning At Life At London's 'Joker' Premiere ... Wacky Outfit Changes!!!

Lady Gaga was channeling full Harley Quinn vibes ... dripping in wackiness as she strutted out of the after-party for the London premiere of "Joker: Folie à Deux."

Exiting London's Nomad Hotel, the star rocked a bodysuit covered with bleeding faces stitched together, and of course, she paired it with matching stockings and towering baby blue platforms -- because when does Gaga ever do low-key?

Gaga rolled up to the after-party with her fiancé, Michael Polansky in a striped blue and beige dress, quirky checkered tights ... and, another pair of platform heels.

Why So Serious? Joker & Harley Quinn Shirts, Merch & More!

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Joaquin Phoenix's Clown Prince of Crime is back in theaters this October with "Joker: Folie à Deux" -- and he's got backup this time from Lady Gaga's Harley Quinn.

The celebrate the movie's release, we've pulled together some of the best merch for DC's most troublesome twosome ... who have had their faces slapped on everything from t-shirts and sweaters to neon lights, purses and more.

Order now and show your Joker or Harley pride when the movie opens October 4.

Put on a Happy Face T-Shirt

Put on a Happy Face ... or this t-shirt reminding you to do just that.

Featuring Phoenix's made-up mug from the first movie, this shirt puts Arthur Fleck's face front and center. The Unisex Ultra Cotton tee comes in six different colors, including Joker green, purple, black and navy.

"Really good quality and fit perfect," read one 5-start review. "Good conversation starter as well.. ... first time I wore it several people discussed parts of the movie with me at work and in the grocery store."

Joker & Harley T-Shirt

Celebrate the Joker and Harley's twisted love story with this shirt highlighting them both.

With cartoon versions of the pair in a heart surrounded by the words, "You're the Joker to my Harley Quinn," this tee is also perfect for couples looking to show off their love for each other ... and the DC characters.

"Love this shirt," wrote one happy customer, who added that, "like Harley Quinn and Joker," the top  "fits perfect."

Joker & Harley Hoodie

With that fall weather creeping in, show your supervillain support with this Joker and Harley sweatshirt.

This "100% authentic, officially licensed Batman hoodie" is unisex, with the couple's faces above the pocket. Not feeling this dark heather gray version? It also comes in navy blue and royal blue.

The pullover comes with a classic fit and twill-taped neck, which will keep you warm if that movie theater AC is blasting.

Joker Neon Light

Light up your life with this Joker neon light.

Joker fans looking to spice up their interior decorating should grab this LED sigh good for the bedroom, living room or man cave. It's a USB-powered device, that comes with a dimmable switch -- as well as a chain or screws for hanging.

"I love how vibrant the color is! Great addition to my sons room," said one satisfied customer ... while another added, "Nice features and works well. Looks good and having a dimmer is even better."

Arthur Fleck/Joker Costume

Want to dress as Arthur Fleck for his return to theaters? You're in luck with this Joker costume.

The polyester suit includes green shirt, orange vest and matching red pants and blazer ... though face paint and green hair coloring or wig will have to be purchased separately to complete the look.

"Really nice. Price was great!!!!! Fast shipping," exclaimed one 5-star review.

Harley Quinn Crossbody Bag

There's a ton of fun merch to show your love for Harley Quinn this year, starting with this crossbody bag inspired by her costume.

This premium vegan leather bag measures 8.0 x 6.0 x 2.5 inches, with space enough to hold your phone, wallet, keys and more while you watch the movie in the theater.

Officially licensed by DC comics, the red and black accessory from Buckle Down is a stylish way to support Harley this season.

Harley Quinn Mallet Bag

A more whimsical option is this Harley Quinn Mallet Bag.

Inspired by Harley's weapon of choice, the mallet purse comes in her signature red and black, with the word POW emblazoned on one end. The stylish accessory also also features a zipper closure and wrist strap.

"Love this bag so much!" exclaimed one customer, who pointed out the bag was out of stock at Spirit Halloween. "I was glad to find here. My phone fits perfectly and it could hold more items, which is impressive for a wristlet."

Harley Quinn Cardigan

Cuddle up in Harley Quinn with this cardigan sweater inspired by the femme fatale.

One half red, the other black, the button down features a giant playing card with Harley in her traditional harlequin clown getup on the back ... as well as additional, smaller cards down the sleeves. It also has heart-shaped buttons and her diamond design on the front.

"I absolutely adore this sweater. I'm a big Harley Quinn fan, especially this version from the 90's animated series," read one 5-star review. "It fits great, and it looks adorable."

Harley Quinn Blazer

Look just like Lady Gaga's version of the character in this Harley Quinn blazer from Hot Topic.

This new iteration is sure to be one of this year's hottest Halloween costumes and fans can get the jump on the look by grabbing this diamond-pattern jacket with ruffled sleeves now.

Finish off the look with some face paint, leather skirt and diamond tights to look just like Gaga!

Harley Quinn Dog Collar

Even your pooch -- or hyenas, if you're anything like Harley -- can get in on action with this Harley Quinn dog collar.

The officially licensed collar is made from high-density polyester and steel, with Hot Topic assuring buyers that it's "built to last."

Featuring a seatbelt button design and black and white diamond-inspired artwork, your little Puddin' will be the talk of the dog park.

All prices subject to change.

Sexy Salsa Dancer Javier In 'Along Came Polly' 'Memba Him?!

American actor Jsu Garcia was 40 years old when he played Javier -- the sexy salsa dancer -- playing opposite Jennifer Aniston and Ben Stiller in the classic rom-com film "Along Came Polly" back in 2004.

Hollywood greats, Ben Stiller played the risk assessment analyst and germaphobe with IBS, Reuben Feffer, Jennifer Aniston played the waitress, risk-taker and lover of salsa dancing with a pet ferret, Polly Prince and Debra Messing played Ben's wife who cheats on him on their honeymoon.

Other cast worthy mentions include Philip Seymour Hoffman and Hank Azaria and Alec Baldwin.

"Let it rain! Rain dance!"

Guess what he looks like now!

Frank Grillo No, I Wasn't 'Almost Fired' From Marvel!!! 'It Was a F***in' Joke'

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IT WAS A JOKE !!!
TMZ.com

Frank Grillo is clarifying his claim about his relationship with Marvel ... with the actor telling us he was not almost axed from the superhero studio.

ICYMI ... Grillo, who is best known for playing Brock Rumlow AKA Crossbones in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, said in a recent interview that he was nearly given the pink slip on 36 different occasions while working for the Disney-owned brand.

However, we caught up with the actor at LAX Airport and he made it clear his comments were taken far too literally ... defending he was just joking around about his big mouth.

Diddy Hangouts With Donald Trump ... Prince Harry, Prince William, Ashton, Spacey

Diddy’s sitting behind bars over serious allegations, and suddenly his network of friends is back in the spotlight.

As you can see, some celeb sightings with the disgraced rapper are no-brainers, but others might raise eyebrows -- like his hangouts with Prince Harry and Prince William. Oh, and let’s not forget he’s crossed paths with Donald Trump a few times too.

Now, Trump has always had a knack for hanging out with some eyebrow-raising characters ... so the MAGA crowd's probably not sweating those pics of him cozying up to Diddy.