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Omegle: Shut Down After 14 Years

The Truth News — Thu, 09 May 2024 16:47:27 +0000

Omegle: Shut Down After 14 Years

ALTERNATIVES

https://www.omegle.fun/

The popular video chat site Omegle shut down in November 2023 after 14 years in operation. The site’s founder, Leif K-Brooks, cited growing legal and ethical concerns for minors’ safety as the reason for the closure. Omegle has been mentioned in more than 50 cases against child abusers, and in 2021 a woman sued the site for matching her with a sexual predator when she was 11 years old. K-Brooks also said that operating Omegle was no longer financially or psychologically sustainable, and that fighting to prevent its misuse was too much.

Omegle, which debuted in 2009, allowed users to anonymously chat with strangers and share ideas. However, some say that the site’s design made it easy for users to switch between conversations, making it a desirable location for new users to hang out.

After 14 years operating under the motto “Talk to strangers!” the popular video chat site, Omegle, has officially shut down, according to its founder, Leif K-Brooks.

In a farewell letter addressed “Dear Strangers,” Brooks cites the innocent ideal of what Omegle stood for, but also notes that “there can be no honest accounting of Omegle without acknowledging that some people misused it, including to commit unspeakably heinous crimes.”

The most recent of a long series of legal discourse, a young woman sued the website in 2021, accusing it of matching her in a chat when she was 11 years old with a man who sexually exploited her.

According to NPR, “The young woman, identified only as A.M., sought $22 million in damages in her lawsuit. Omegle was shut down days after the two sides agreed to settle the lawsuit.”

Founded in 2009, Omegle has been around for the adolescent years of many Seattle University students, and Gen Z youth across the world.

Karim Jooma, a second-year law student, opened up about his experience using the platform.

“Omegle was a staple for meeting strangers on the internet,” Jooma said.

Typical to many others, Jooma used Omegle for fun, whether it be during sleepovers or whilst on FaceTime with friends, commenting on the range of people you could meet on the site.

“It was one of those things used by a lot of people, but hardly if ever for its intended purpose,” Jooma noted. “It went from kids like me to old guys sitting there naked.”

Many students and former users weren’t shocked to hear of the current legal debacle surrounding the platform. Given the nature of what took place on the site, for many people, the shutdown wasn’t surprising.

Joseph Garcia, a junior at Albuquerque Academy, weighed in on the controversy surrounding the platform.

“I wasn’t very surprised, it’s a crazy place,” Garcia said. “It felt like it was going to happen sooner or later.”

Similar to Jooma, Garcia would often visit the site late at night when hanging out with friends, noting the danger of using Omegle alone.

Nonetheless, Garcia did make sure to point out he is sad about Omegle being gone. Aside from being fun and exhilarating, never knowing who was going to pop up next, Omegle was a place where people from across the world were able to connect.

“I think it was a good way to communicate with people from other places,” Garcia said. “One time, when I was taking French in school, I typed French into the category search so I was able to connect with people who spoke French and practice with them there.”

Unfortunately, this positive experience was not respected enough by a large number of Omegle’s users, many of whom abused the site for its anonymity—exposing themselves on camera, or requesting sex acts from others.

“There was an excitement around the platform, because it was something you were obviously not supposed to be looking at. Parents were unaware, teachers were unaware, and even politicians, it seemed, were largely unaware,” Tyrah Majors said, an adjunct professor in communication and media at Seattle U and anchor and reporter for the weekday morning newscasts on KOMO News.

Growing up, Major’s middle school years came at a time when kids were frequenting the site. Omegle was launched before mainstream social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat.

Popular almost instantly after launch, Omegle quickly reached millions of daily users, and remained in wide usage up until 2023 according to a recent New York Times article. Peaks came during the pandemic, when people sought relationships while in isolation.

Coupled with its scale, in the letter, Brooks notes that while the company had “implemented a number of improvements” to its services, including human and AI moderators, the standards that critics had set were “not humanly achievable.”

“I wish there were better restrictions back when I was a teen, and up to the day Omegle was shut down,” Majors commented. “There should be no spaces anywhere where such crimes are allowed to occur.”

The end of Omegle comes at a time when lawmakers and law enforcement agencies continue to examine the role of technology and social media in the lives of young people.

“I think that Omegle is an example that all eyes are on social media platforms and how they are affecting minors especially,” Majors said.

As Omegle shuts down, an opportunity to connect with strangers goes missing. Whether for better or for worse, this restriction is a clear sign more attention is being paid to the social media landscape all of us take for granted. source

Omegle, the anonymous video chat site, shuts down after 14 years

The website recently settled a lawsuit that alleged it connected a then-11-year-old girl with a sexual abuser.

Omegle, a website that connected strangers for video chats, has shut down after a lawsuit accused it of facilitating child abuse.

Founder Leif K-Brooks announced the closure Wednesday in a lengthy statement posted to the website that touched on what he saw as positives about the platform and the future of the internet. He wrote that Omegle had been used “to explore foreign cultures; to get advice about their lives from impartial third parties; and to help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.”

But he also noted the platform’s struggles with child predators.

“There can be no honest accounting of Omegle without acknowledging that some people misused it, including to commit unspeakably heinous crimes,” K-Brooks wrote.

Launched in 2009, the website initially gained traction with teens but remained a relatively fringe video-chatting platform, though clips of funny or strange interactions and pairings sometimes spread across the internet. Its cultural resonance ebbed and flowed, with a new burst of popularity on TikTok and YouTube in 2020.

Not long after its launch, Omegle gained a reputation as a platform that struggled to stop child sexual abuse. Omegle has been named in numerous Department of Justice publications announcing the sentencing of people convicted of sex crimes.

The website was sued in 2021 for allegedly having a “defectively designed product” and enabling sex trafficking after the service matched a girl, then 11, with a man who later sexually abused her.

Carrie Goldberg, whose firm represents the girl, said Omegle’s shutdown was a result of mediation between the platform and her client.

K-Brooks wrote that Omegle had “state-of-the-art AI” and a team of moderators working behind-the-scenes to combat misuse of the platform. He also wrote that the site “worked with law enforcement agencies, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, to help put evildoers in prison where they belong.”

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) collects reports of suspected child sexual abuse material from tech platforms.

Child sexual abuse and the online sharing of child sexual abuse material has become a sweeping issue that has affected nearly every social media platform. In 2022, Omegle filed over 608,000 reports to NCMEC, while Instagram submitted more than 5 million and Facebook submitted over 21 million.

In his statement, K-Brooks said that a war was being waged “against the Internet” under the banner of child safety.

“Virtually every online communication service has been subject to the same kinds of attack as Omegle; and while some of them are much larger companies with much greater resources, they all have their breaking point somewhere,” he wrote.

The website had declined in relevance amid the rise of other chat platforms like Discord but saw a surge of popularity in 2020, with many TikTok users posting videos of them using the platform. As of Thursday, videos with the Omegle hashtag have been viewed on TikTok 11.4 billion times. Some creators on TikTok and YouTube had specialized in Omegle “prank” content.

The closure announcement sparked some to recall fond memories of the platform. X users posted their favorite memes spawned from the chat site, including infamous burns and awkward moments.

Still, viral reactions to Omegle’s shutdown largely focused on the platform’s notoriety for connecting minors with adults. Matt Bernstein, a progressive politics influencer who has over 400,000 followers on X, posted: “rip omegle, thoughts and prayers to all the 35 year old men i talked to when i was 14.” source

Omegle shut down: Video chat website closed after abuse claims

Popular live video chat website Omegle is shutting down after 14 years following user claims of abuse.

The service, which randomly placed users in online chats with strangers, grew in popularity with children and young people during the Covid pandemic.

But the site has been mentioned in more than 50 cases against paedophiles in the last couple of years.

Founder Leif Brooks said that operating the website was “no longer sustainable, financially nor psychologically”.

“There can be no honest accounting of Omegle without acknowledging that some people misused it, including to commit unspeakably heinous crimes,” he said.

“As much as I wish circumstances were different, the stress and expense of this fight – coupled with the existing stress and expense of operating Omegle, and fighting its misuse – are simply too much.

“Frankly, I don’t want to have a heart attack in my 30s.”

Omegle’s closure announcement included an image of its logo on a gravestone.

What is Omegle?

Mr Brooks launched Omegle in 2009 at the age of 18. He described it as “the idea of ‘meeting new people’ distilled down to almost its platonic ideal”, and built on what he saw as “the intrinsic safety benefits of the internet, users were anonymous to each other by default”.

The website had around 73 million visitors a month, according to analysts at website watchers Semrush, mostly from India, the US, the UK, Mexico and Australia.

For some teenagers it was seen as a rite of passage to be matched with a stranger in a live video chat where anything could happen.

Indeed, as news of its closure spread, young people who have grown up with Omegle being a wild part of the internet have been sharing stories and memories of the site on social media.

However, Omegle has also been the subject of controversy, and many are also posting horrible stories of the sorts of sexual and predatory behaviour they experienced on the platform.

In a landmark case a young American is suing the website, accusing it of randomly pairing her with a paedophile.

The account user was a minor when the incident took place and the lawsuit against Omegle was filed 10 years later in November 2021.

Omegle’s legal team argued in court that the website was not to blame for what happened, and denied that it was a haven for predators.

The case is ongoing.

Omegle’s creator Leif Brooks declines to talk to the BBC

Reclusive owner Mr Brooks and his fans argue that the shutdown of Omegle is a symptom of internet freedoms being taken away and the end of an era.

But in many ways Omegle was a strange relic of a former way the internet worked.

The site itself was glitchy and ugly, with an offensive joke about the Chinese president on its landing page.

Moderation was extremely light-touch at a time when politicians and society are asking for more from internet companies.

For instance, this week, in the UK Ofcom issued its first guidance for tech platforms to comply with the Online Safety Act and the communications regulator singled out online grooming.

Two people with knowledge of the inner workings of Omegle say that there wasn’t any human moderation despite Mr Brooks’ claims.

The entire company was seemingly run solely by him, with no other registered employees.

It was operated from his lakeside house in Florida and when he was asleep or offline, no complaints were acted upon.

Earlier this year, the BBC found that Omegle has been mentioned in dozens of cases against paedophiles in countries including the UK, US and Australia.

Video-sharing platform TikTok banned sharing links to Omegle, after a BBC investigation in 2021 found what appeared to be children exposing themselves to strangers on the website.

Mr Brooks never publicly answered his critics or posted to social media, despite the trend of tech bosses being held to account in parliamentary hearings.

Other sites like it will no doubt rise to fill the void, but the demise of Omegle shows that times have changed since the 18-year-old programmer launched his experimental social platform.

Imagery of young children carrying out sexual acts on camera has risen more than tenfold since the pandemic lockdowns, according to the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF).

In 2022, the IWF logged more than 63,000 webpages showing the material compared to 5,000 before the pandemic.

Cyber reporter Joe Tidy speaks exclusively with child abuse survivor “Alice” and her legal team, as they prepare a case that could have major consequences for social media companies. Then he tracks down Omegle’s elusive creator, Leif Brooks. source

WORDS FROM THE INVENTOR HIMESELF

“Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron’s cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.” — C.S. Lewis

“In the beginning the Universe was created. This has made a lot of people very angry and been widely regarded as a bad move.” — Douglas Adams

Dear strangers,

From the moment I discovered the Internet at a young age, it has been a magical place to me. Growing up in a small town, relatively isolated from the larger world, it was a revelation how much more there was to discover – how many interesting people and ideas the world had to offer.

As a young teenager, I couldn’t just waltz onto a college campus and tell a student: “Let’s debate moral philosophy!” I couldn’t walk up to a professor and say: “Tell me something interesting about microeconomics!” But online, I was able to meet those people, and have those conversations. I was also an avid Wikipedia editor; I contributed to open source software projects; and I often helped answer computer programming questions posed by people many years older than me.

In short, the Internet opened the door to a much larger, more diverse, and more vibrant world than I would have otherwise been able to experience; and enabled me to be an active participant in, and contributor to, that world. All of this helped me to learn, and to grow into a more well-rounded person.

Moreover, as a survivor of childhood rape, I was acutely aware that any time I interacted with someone in the physical world, I was risking my physical body. The Internet gave me a refuge from that fear. I was under no illusion that only good people used the Internet; but I knew that, if I said “no” to someone online, they couldn’t physically reach through the screen and hold a weapon to my head, or worse. I saw the miles of copper wires and fiber-optic cables between me and other people as a kind of shield – one that empowered me to be less isolated than my trauma and fear would have otherwise allowed.

I launched Omegle when I was 18 years old, and still living with my parents. It was meant to build on the things I loved about the Internet, while introducing a form of social spontaneity that I felt didn’t exist elsewhere. If the Internet is a manifestation of the “global village”, Omegle was meant to be a way of strolling down a street in that village, striking up conversations with the people you ran into along the way.

The premise was rather straightforward: when you used Omegle, it would randomly place you in a chat with someone else. These chats could be as long or as short as you chose. If you didn’t want to talk to a particular person, for whatever reason, you could simply end the chat and – if desired – move onto another chat with someone else. It was the idea of “meeting new people” distilled down to almost its platonic ideal.

Building on what I saw as the intrinsic safety benefits of the Internet, users were anonymous to each other by default. This made chats more self-contained, and made it less likely that a malicious person would be able to track someone else down off-site after their chat ended.

I didn’t really know what to expect when I launched Omegle. Would anyone even care about some Web site that an 18 year old kid made in his bedroom in his parents’ house in Vermont, with no marketing budget? But it became popular almost instantly after launch, and grew organically from there, reaching millions of daily users. I believe this had something to do with meeting new people being a basic human need, and with Omegle being among the best ways to fulfill that need. As the saying goes: “If you build a better mousetrap, the world will beat a path to your door.”

Over the years, people have used Omegle to explore foreign cultures; to get advice about their lives from impartial third parties; and to help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation. I’ve even heard stories of soulmates meeting on Omegle, and getting married. Those are only some of the highlights.

Unfortunately, there are also lowlights. Virtually every tool can be used for good or for evil, and that is especially true of communication tools, due to their innate flexibility. The telephone can be used to wish your grandmother “happy birthday”, but it can also be used to call in a bomb threat. There can be no honest accounting of Omegle without acknowledging that some people misused it, including to commit unspeakably heinous crimes.

I believe in a responsibility to be a “good Samaritan”, and to implement reasonable measures to fight crime and other misuse. That is exactly what Omegle did. In addition to the basic safety feature of anonymity, there was a great deal of moderation behind the scenes, including state-of-the-art AI operating in concert with a wonderful team of human moderators. Omegle punched above its weight in content moderation, and I’m proud of what we accomplished.

Omegle’s moderation even had a positive impact beyond the site. Omegle worked with law enforcement agencies, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, to help put evildoers in prison where they belong. There are “people” rotting behind bars right now thanks in part to evidence that Omegle proactively collected against them, and tipped the authorities off to.

All that said, the fight against crime isn’t one that can ever truly be won. It’s a never-ending battle that must be fought and re-fought every day; and even if you do the very best job it is possible for you to do, you may make a sizable dent, but you won’t “win” in any absolute sense of that word. That’s heartbreaking, but it’s also a basic lesson of criminology, and one that I think the vast majority of people understand on some level. Even superheroes, the fictional characters that our culture imbues with special powers as a form of wish fulfillment in the fight against crime, don’t succeed at eliminating crime altogether.

In recent years, it seems like the whole world has become more ornery. Maybe that has something to do with the pandemic, or with political disagreements. Whatever the reason, people have become faster to attack, and slower to recognize each other’s shared humanity. One aspect of this has been a constant barrage of attacks on communication services, Omegle included, based on the behavior of a malicious subset of users.

To an extent, it is reasonable to question the policies and practices of any place where crime has occurred. I have always welcomed constructive feedback; and indeed, Omegle implemented a number of improvements based on such feedback over the years. However, the recent attacks have felt anything but constructive. The only way to please these people is to stop offering the service. Sometimes they say so, explicitly and avowedly; other times, it can be inferred from their act of setting standards that are not humanly achievable. Either way, the net result is the same.

Omegle is the direct target of these attacks, but their ultimate victim is you: all of you out there who have used, or would have used, Omegle to improve your lives, and the lives of others. When they say Omegle shouldn’t exist, they are really saying that you shouldn’t be allowed to use it; that you shouldn’t be allowed to meet random new people online. That idea is anathema to the ideals I cherish – specifically, to the bedrock principle of a free society that, when restrictions are imposed to prevent crime, the burden of those restrictions must not be targeted at innocent victims or potential victims of crime.

Consider the idea that society ought to force women to dress modestly in order to prevent rape. One counter-argument is that rapists don’t really target women based on their clothing; but a more powerful counter-argument is that, irrespective of what rapists do, women’s rights should remain intact. If society robs women of their rights to bodily autonomy and self-expression based on the actions of rapists – even if it does so with the best intentions in the world – then society is practically doing the work of rapists for them.

Fear can be a valuable tool, guiding us away from danger. However, fear can also be a mental cage that keeps us from all of the things that make life worth living. Individuals and families must be allowed to strike the right balance for themselves, based on their own unique circumstances and needs. A world of mandatory fear is a world ruled by fear – a dark place indeed.

I’ve done my best to weather the attacks, with the interests of Omegle’s users – and the broader principle – in mind. If something as simple as meeting random new people is forbidden, what’s next? That is far and away removed from anything that could be considered a reasonable compromise of the principle I outlined. Analogies are a limited tool, but a physical-world analogy might be shutting down Central Park because crime occurs there – or perhaps more provocatively, destroying the universe because it contains evil. A healthy, free society cannot endure when we are collectively afraid of each other to this extent.

Unfortunately, what is right doesn’t always prevail. As much as I wish circumstances were different, the stress and expense of this fight – coupled with the existing stress and expense of operating Omegle, and fighting its misuse – are simply too much. Operating Omegle is no longer sustainable, financially nor psychologically. Frankly, I don’t want to have a heart attack in my 30s.

The battle for Omegle has been lost, but the war against the Internet rages on. Virtually every online communication service has been subject to the same kinds of attack as Omegle; and while some of them are much larger companies with much greater resources, they all have their breaking point somewhere. I worry that, unless the tide turns soon, the Internet I fell in love with may cease to exist, and in its place, we will have something closer to a souped-up version of TV – focused largely on passive consumption, with much less opportunity for active participation and genuine human connection. If that sounds like a bad idea to you, please consider donating to the Electronic Frontier Foundation, an organization that fights for your rights online.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who used Omegle for positive purposes, and to everyone who contributed to the site’s success in any way. I’m so sorry I couldn’t keep fighting for you.

I thank A.M. for opening my eyes to the human cost of Omegle.

Sincerely,
Leif K-Brooks
Founder, Omegle.com LLC

‘Night Court’ actor Richard Moll dead at 80

The Truth News — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 08:21:10 +0000

‘Night Court’ actor Richard Moll dead at 80

Richard Moll portrayed Bull Shannon on ‘Night Court’ from 1984 until 1992

Richard Moll, the actor best known for the role of bailiff Bull Shannon in “Night Court,” has died He was 80.

A representative for Moll confirmed to Fox News Digital that the actor passed away earlier this week at his home in Big Bear Lake in California. A cause of death was not revealed.

“The Studio Talent Group mourns the passing of our longtime acting client, the indomitable Richard Moll. A gifted actor and humanitarian he was a caring, loving father with an unmistakably unique persona,” the statement read.

“Immensely talented, sometimes misunderstood… He was literally and figuratively a larger-than-life character. He was a wonderful member of the Studio Talent Group family.”

Moll portrayed Bull Shannon on the hit television series “Night Court” from 1984 until 1992. He starred alongside Harry Anderson and John Larroquette.

His character formed a close friendship with the court’s other bailiff, Roz Russell, played by Marsha Warfield. Bull was known for his catchphrase, “Ohh-kay,” and a dim but sweet worldview.

Richard Moll died Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, at his home in Big Bear Lake, California. (AP Images)

However, the towering 6-foot 8-inch tall actor did not join the reboot of “Night Court.” The original “Night Court” finale ended with his character being abducted by aliens who needed someone tall to reach the things on their highest shelves.

Moll moved to Los Angeles in 1968 to pursue his acting career in Hollywood. The veteran actor’s remarkable accomplishments spanned nearly sixty years.

Pictured: (top l-r) Richard Moll as Nostradamus “Bull” Shannon, Harry Anderson as Judge Harold “Harry” T. Stone, Charles Robinson as Macintosh “Mac” Robinson, (bottom l-r) Marsha Warfield as Rosalind ‘Roz’ Russell, Markie Post as Christine Sullivan, John Larroquette as Daniel R. “Dan” Fielding. (Getty Images)

He got to play a cannibal in a Hertz commercial opposite Don Adams and then Joseph Smith in a 1977 biopic about Brigham Young before landing parts in episodes of “Welcome Back, Kotter” and “The Rockford Files.”

In 1979, Moll was cast as a gangster in the two-part “Happy Days” episode “Fonzie’s Funeral,” which led to appearances on two other Garry Marshall-created shows, “Laverne & Shirley” and “Mork & Mindy.”

Moll was additionally featured on a two-part episode of “The Facts of Life” in 1987 and recurred as “The Drifter” on the 1999-2002 Nickelodeon comedy “100 Deeds for Eddie McDowd.”

He contributed his trademark gravelly voice to various video games and comic book projects like “Batman: The Animated Series” as Harvey Dent and appeared in horror films including “Ghost Shark” in 2013 and “Slay Belles” in 2018.

He voiced Scorpion in the 1990s’ “Spider-Man: The Animated Series” and had minor parts in 1994’s “The Flintstones,” the Arnold Schwarzenegger comedy “Jingle All the Way” and “Scary Movie 2.”

When Moll wasn’t on television and movie sets, he was an avid bird watcher and loved nature.

Moll is survived by his children, Chloe and Mason Moll; ex-wife, Susan Moll; and stepchildren Cassandra Card and Morgan Ostling. source

‘Friends’ star Matthew Perry dead at 54

The Truth News — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 07:53:23 +0000

‘Friends’ star Matthew Perry dead at 54

The actor died after an apparent drowning in a hot tub, law enforcement sources told Fox News Digital

“Friends” star Matthew Perry has died, Fox News Digital has confirmed. He was 54.

Law enforcement sources said the actor was found dead in a hot tub at a house in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles on Saturday. The authorities stated he appeared to have died due to drowning.

According to TMZ, emergency personnel first responded to a call reporting cardiac arrest at the house. No drugs were found on the scene and no foul play is suspected, per the outlet.

According to a report by the Los Angeles Times, law enforcement sources said that authorities responded to Perry’s house at 4 p.m. and found him unresponsive.

The source would not provide a cause of death, per the outlet.

The LA Times reported that the Los Angeles Police Department’s robbery-homicide detectives are investigating Perry’s death.

The actor’s final social media post was shared five days ago. Perry uploaded an image of himself wearing headphones in a hot tub at night to Instagram.

“Oh, so warm water swirling around makes you feel good? I’m Mattman,” he wrote in the caption.

Perry was born on Aug. 19, 1969, in Williamstown, Massachusetts, to parents Suzanne Marie and John Bennett Perry. He was raised in Canada and spent many years of his childhood there before moving to Los Angeles.

The actor was best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom “Friends.” He starred alongside Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer in the show, which ran for 10 seasons from 1994 to 2004.

He also took on leading roles in a number of movies, including “Fools Rush In,” “17 Again, “The Whole Nine Yards,” “Three to Tango,” “Almost Heroes,” “The Kid,” and “Getting In.” After “Friends” concluded, Perry starred in television shows such as “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,” “Mr. Sunshine,” “Go On” and “The Odd Couple.”

Matthew Perry was only 24 when he was cast in “Friends.” (Mike Pont/WireImage)

The actor also made appearances in the TV series “Charles in Charge,” “Boys Will Be Boys,” “Silver Spoons,” “Growing Pains,” “Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Caroline in the City,” “Home Free,” “Ally McBeal,” “The West Wing,” “Scrubs,” “The Good Wife” and “Cougar Town.”

In 2021, all the main cast members of “Friends” returned to the beloved sitcom’s original soundstage for the HBO special, “Friends: The Reunion.”

Though it was the first time they had all appeared on-screen together since the show wrapped up in 2004, Perry said their off-screen friendships have remained strong over the years.

In November 2022, Perry released his memoir “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” where he wrote about his time of “Friends” and his long battle with drug and alcohol addiction. (David M. Benett/Getty Images)

“It’s a group that really is close and tight-knit and loves each other,” he told People magazine last October.

In November 2022, Perry released his memoir “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing” where he wrote about his time on “Friends” and his long battle with drug and alcohol addiction.

Matthew Perry said in a 2022 interview that he’d been sober since 2021. (Getty Images)

At one extremely low point, Perry said, he was taking 55 Vicodin pills a day and weighed 128 pounds. He revealed he did 15 stints in rehab and underwent 14 surgeries for addiction-related medical issues.

In an October 2022 interview with the New York Times, Perry said he had been sober since early 2021. source

Matthew Perry’s cause of death listed as deferred: What that means

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office has completed its autopsy of “Friends” actor Matthew Perry, who was found dead at his home Saturday.

Perry was found dead at his home in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles Saturday, after an apparent drowning, according to FOX News. According to TMZ, emergency personnel first responded to a call reporting cardiac arrest at the house.

Perry detailed his lengthy history of drug and alcohol abuse, including during his time on iconic ’90s sitcom, but TMZ reported that no drugs or alcohol were found at the home.

The LA County Medical Examiner listed Perry’s cause of death as “deferred” Sunday, which according to the office means that an autopsy has been completed, but an official cause of death has yet to be determined. That determination could hang on impending test results like, for example, a toxicology report.

Perry appeared in every episode during “Friends'” 10-season run from 1994-2004, making him one of Hollywood’s most recognizable actors, starring opposite Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow and David Schwimmer.

Friends and family shared heartfelt messages about Perry on social media. In a statement to People Magazine, Perry’s family said, “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother. Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend. You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love.”

Warner Bros. Television group called Perry “an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family.”

According to People, Perry is survived by his father, actor John Bennett Perry, his mother, journalist Suzanne Morrison, his stepfather, “Dateline” correspondent Keith Morrison, and five siblings — Caitlin Morrison, Emily Morrison, Will Morrison, Madeline Morrison and Maria Perry. source

‘Three’s Company’ star Suzanne Somers died following a battle with breast cancer

The Truth News — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 03:35:36 +0000

Actress Suzanne Somers dead at 76

‘Three’s Company’ star Suzanne Somers died following a battle with breast cancer

Suzanne Somers died on Sunday from breast cancer. She was 76.

The “Three’s Company” actress “passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of October 15th,” Somers representative confirmed in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.

“She survived an aggressive form of breast cancer for over 23 years.”

Her representatives added, “Suzanne was surrounded by her loving husband Alan, her son Bruce, and her immediate family. Her family was gathered to celebrate her 77th birthday on October 16th.”

“Instead, they will celebrate her extraordinary life, and want to thank her millions of fans and followers who loved her dearly,” Somers rep said. “A private family burial will take place this week, with a memorial to follow next month.”

SUZANNE SOMERS REVEALS BREAST CANCER RETURNED: ‘THIS IS FAMILIAR BATTLEGROUND’

Somers was diagnosed with cancer twice before. She suffered skin cancer in her 30s and breast cancer in her 50s.

In July, the “Step by Step” star revealed to Fox News Digital that her breast cancer had returned.

“I have been living with cancer for decades now, using the best of alternative and conventional medicine to keep it at bay. Every time that little f—– pops up, I continue to bat it back,” she said.

Suzanne Somers began modeling before finding her passion as an actress. (Ron Galella)

Somers was known for her role as “Chrissy” in “Three’s Company” with John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt. (Getty Images)

“As one of millions of cancer patients, we do our best not to let this insidious disease control us. I find bliss in each day. My husband has been by my side every step of the way, and my family has been so supportive. Thank you for the outpouring of love and good wishes.”

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Somers added, “It’s a recurrence of my breast cancer,” she added. “Like any cancer patient, when you get that dreaded, ‘It’s back,’ you get a pit in your stomach. Then I put on my battle gear and go to war. This is familiar battleground for me, and I’m very tough.”

Born in Northern California, Somers first found major success in 1977 playing “Chrissy Snow,” the bubbly blonde roommate to Jack Tripper (John Ritter) and Janet Wood (Joyce DeWitt) on the sitcom “Three’s Company.”

Somers was also known as the spokesperson for the Thighmaster, and had her own Las Vegas review. (Harry Langdon)

Suzanne Somers earned a coveted Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 2003. (Steve Granitz)

She became a breakout star and landed the role of ThighMaster’s spokesperson, before becoming an out-right owner of the product with her husband Alan Hamel.

The at-home exercise device designed to tone legs reportedly earned Somers $300 million since its inception.

She stopped counting how many ThighMasters she sold “after 10 million.” In 1992, she became one of the Home Shopping Network’s top-selling brands. Somers is also the author of 27 books, including 14 New York Times bestsellers. Her name can be found on everything from jewelry to protein formula.

Suzanne Somers Dies: ‘Three’s Company’ Actress And Personal Fitness Guru Was 76

From left: Suzanne Somers in 1978, 2020 and 1988

Suzanne Somers, best known for her ditsy comedy turn in the hit television series Three’s Company, has died. She was 76.

“Suzanne Somers passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of October 15th. She survived an aggressive form of breast cancer for over 23 years,” Somers’ longtime publicist R. Couri Hay wrote in a statement to People shared on behalf of the actress’ family.

“Suzanne was surrounded by her loving husband Alan, her son Bruce, and her immediate family,” the statement continued. “Her family was gathered to celebrate her 77th birthday on October 16th. Instead, they will celebrate her extraordinary life, and want to thank her millions of fans and followers who loved her dearly.”

Somers first cultural impression was as the blonde beauty in a white Thunderbird in George Lucas’ ‘60s hit comedy-drama, American Graffiti (1973).

Her big break came in 1977, when she was cast as one of the two female leads in the third pilot for Three’s Company.

Somers was the epitome of the “dumb blonde” on the show as Chrissy Snow. She joined with Joyce DeWitt and John Ritter in the improbable sitcom about three roommates that captured the fancy of TV audiences, rising to No. 3 in the national ratings in its 1977-78 debut season. The racy show for its time kept in the Nielsen Top 5 through the beginning of the 1980 season, when Somers exited the show over a business conflict. She made brief cameos that season and was completely written off the show after that season, replaced by other characters.

From there, Somers tried a Vegas act, and then was the star of the syndicated sitcom She’s the Sheriff. In 1991, she again gained some momentum when she was cast opposite Patrick Duffy in Step by Step, a traditional sitcom about blended families. It lasted eight seasons on ABC, then jumped to CBS for a final season in 1997-1998.

But acting had taken a backseat for Somers, who built up a multimillion dollar fitness empire takes to TV informercials for the ThighMaster, which was shortly joined by the ButtMaster. She and husband Alan Hamel amassed a fortune estimated in the hundreds of millions of dollars from the toning products. There followed two dozen books on wellness, weight loss and sex, with Home Shopping Network appearances and her own website fueling even more money.

Show business still played a small role. She was the cohost of Candid Camera in 1997, and host of the Lifetime talk show The Suzanne Show in 2012. She was also on Dancing with the Stars in 2015.

Her resume includes the 1988 memoir, Keeping Secrets, later turned into an ABC TV movie. She did a sequel novel as well, and then a one-woman Broadway show, The Blonde in the Thunderbird.

Her film and TV resume includes a small part in the Steve McQueen action vehicle Bullitt (1968), TV roles on The Rockford Files, Starsky & Hutch, The Love Boat and One Day at a Time. Her movie work included Clint Eastwood’s second Dirty Harry film, Magnum Force (1973) and Billy Jack Goes to Washington (1977).She is survived by her husband and son. source

Keith Jefferson, Acclaimed American Actor Dead At 53

The Truth News — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 00:21:08 +0000

Keith Jefferson, Acclaimed American Actor Dead At 53

Keith Jefferson, an actor who appeared in Django Unchained, The Hateful Eight and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood has reportedly died at the age of 53. Jefferson was reportedly battling cancer, but a cause of death has not yet been revealed.

E! News reports on his death…

Jefferson surely provided a lot of entertainment for people around the world, and it is a tragedy that we lost him at such a young age. Our prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. source

Remembering Keith Jefferson from ‘Django Unchained’ – What Made Him Special?

Keith Jefferson, widely known for his role in Quentin Tarantino’s “Django Unchained,” tragically passed away on October 6, 2023, at 7:37 p.m. He was 53. The film industry, friends, and fans alike are mourning the loss of this talented actor.

Summary of Keith Jefferson Django Unchained
Keith Jefferson’s Career and Impact
Jamie Foxx’s Tribute
Keith Jefferson’s Battle with Cancer
Legacy and Other Notable Roles
Don Johnson’s Role in “Django Unchained”
Conclusion

Throughout his career, Keith Jefferson collaborated with some of the biggest names in Hollywood. His roles spanned from “Django Unchained” to other influential films, leaving an indelible mark in cinematic history.

Summary of Keith Jefferson Django Unchained

Highlights	Details
Age at Passing	53
Notable Film	Django Unchained (2012)
Role in Django Unchained	Pudgy Ralph
Other Notable Films	Hateful Eight, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Co-stars	Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, Samuel L. Jackson
Television Appearance	The Last Free Man (with Angela Lansbury)
Health Battle	Announced cancer diagnosis in August

Keith Jefferson’s Career and Impact

Keith Jefferson’s contributions to the film industry are vast. Notably, he portrayed “Pudgy Ralph” in “Django Unchained” (2012), sharing the screen with Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Samuel L. Jackson. His roles in Quentin Tarantino’s other films showcased his versatile acting talent.

His career achievements went beyond just movies. His reach in the entertainment industry was widespread, and his roles were often memorable.

Jamie Foxx’s Tribute

Jamie Foxx, a co-star and friend, paid a touching tribute to Keith Jefferson. Their bond, both on and off the screen, was evident. Working together in “Django Unchained” allowed them to form a close relationship, and Foxx’s heartfelt words highlight the loss deeply felt by many.

Keith Jefferson’s Battle with Cancer

In August, Keith Jefferson had publicly announced his cancer diagnosis. This battle with illness undoubtedly affected both his personal life and professional career. His strength and determination during this time were commendable, adding to the legacy he leaves behind.

Legacy and Other Notable Roles

Apart from his roles in Tarantino’s films, Keith Jefferson’s legacy in Hollywood is rich. He appeared in “The Hateful Eight” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” He also showcased his talent in the television movie “The Last Free Man,” where he starred alongside legendary Angela Lansbury.

Don Johnson’s Role in “Django Unchained”

Another noteworthy casting in “Django Unchained” was Don Johnson. He played “Spencer Bennett,” a plantation owner. Johnson’s role added depth to the film and highlighted the star-studded cast that made “Django Unchained” memorable.

Conclusion

Keith Jefferson’s sudden passing is a tremendous loss to the film world. His contributions to cinema, especially in “Django Unchained,” will forever be remembered. The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a truly talented actor.

FAQs

Q: What was Keith Jefferson’s notable role?
A: Keith Jefferson is best known for his role as “Pudgy Ralph” in “Django Unchained.”

Q: When did Keith Jefferson pass away?
A: He passed away on October 6, 2023, at 7:37 p.m.

source

Dick Butkus Dies: Feared NFL Legend Who Had Busy Acting Career Was 80

The Truth News — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 02:29:25 +0000

Dick Butkus Dies: Feared NFL Legend Who Had Busy Acting Career Was 80

Dick Butkus, a Hall of Famer who was among the greatest, most respected and most feared players in NFL history and also had a long acting career in TV, film and commercials, died overnight in his sleep at his Malibu home. He was 80.

His family confirmed the news on social media.

After back-to-back All-America seasons at the University of Illinois, Butkus was picked No. 3 overall by his hometown Chicago Bears in 1965. A fearsome force on the field and rather gentle giant off of it, he spent his entire injury-shortened nine-season career with the club, redefining the linebacker position in the process.

Active from 1965-73, Butkus was named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team for both the 1960s and ’70s and was selected for the All-Time NFL Team in 2000. A six-time All-NFL selection and two-time Defensive Player of the Year, he played in eight consecutive Pro Bowls and was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979 after retiring with 1,020 career tackles, 22 interceptions and 25 fumble recoveries.

He also was a color analyst for Bears radio and appeared on CBS‘ pregame show The NFL Today in the late 1980s.

“Dick was the ultimate Bear, and one of the greatest players in NFL history. He was Chicago’s son,” Bears chairman George H. McCaskey said in a statement. “He exuded what our great city is about and, not conicidentally, what George Halas looked for in a player: toughness, smarts, instincts, passion and leadership. He refused to accept anything less than the best from himself, or from his teammates. … His contributions to the game he loved will live forever.”

Butkus later coached the Chicago Enforcers of the original XFL in 2001.

“There’s only one thing I’ve ever wanted to do: Play pro football,” he told the Hall of Fame. “Everyone seems to be made for something, and I’ve always felt that playing football was the thing I was supposed to do. I love the game.”

Butkus was also active in philanthropy, with the NFL’s Dick Butkus Award and his foundation honoring achievement on the field and service to the community among high school, college and NFL linebackers. He also spearheaded the “I Play Clean” campaign that helped raise awareness about the dangers of steroid use among high school athletes.

https://youtu.be/7-AJNnXVqiU?si=vPNHsqlwJmOG0DKf

Born on December 9, 1942, in the Windy City, Butkus also has a long career onscreen that began during his playing days. He played himself in the memorable, multi-Emmy-winning 1971 telefilm Brian’s Song and later began to land guest spots on such TV series as McMillan & Wife, Police Story and Emergency!

By the mid-1970s, Butkus was appearing alongside other athletes and in several popular and enduring Miller Lite TV commercials — watch one of most famous ones below. With his hulking frame and winning smile, he continued to land roles through the 1970s and beyond on such popular TV shows as The Six Million Dollar Man, The Rockford Files, Wonder Woman, Taxi, Vega$, Magnum P.I., MacGyver, Simon & Simon, Matlock, Growing Pains, Kate & Allie and The Love Boat.

In 1984, Butkus was cast opposite his fellow Lite beer ads alum Bubba Smith in the ABC drama Blue Thunder, playing a cop who backed up the crew of the titular souped-up chopper. The series, which was based on the hit Roy Scheider movie, also starred a pre-SNL Dana Carvey and James Farentino. It lasted only 11 episodes.

Butkus would landed a second series-regular role in 1987 on the NBC sitcom My Two Dads, playing an ex-football player who ran a restaurant in the building where leads Paul Reiser and Greg Evigan lived. The show made the primetime Top 20 in its 1987-88 rookie year, and he stayed with the series for its first two seasons.

Butkus went on to co-star in the ’90s NBC Saturday morning series Hang Time, starting with its fourth season in 1998. Playing the coach of a high school basketball team, he appeared in more than 50 episodes over its final two seasons, wrapping in 2000.

He also played himself in episodes of the 2000s series The Bernie Mac Show, Inside Schwartz and I Didn’t Do It.

In 2005 he was featured in the ESPN docuseries Bound for Glory, coaching a losing high school football team in suburban Pittsburgh.

Dick Butkus and Peter Boyle in ‘Johnny Dangerously’

Butkus also made several big-screen appearances, including Disney’s 1976 football romp Gus; opposite Bill Cosby, Raquel Welch and Harvey Keitel that same year in Mother, Jugs & Speed; with Michael Keaton in Johnny Dangerously (1984); Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990); and Oliver Stone’s 1999 pro football movie Any Given Sunday.

Charming and outgoing, Butkus also appeared on talk shows, game shows, pro wrestling events, celebrity roasts and myriad football-themed documentaries. He also was referenced often in Saturday Night Live‘spopular “Da Bears” sketches of the early 1990s.

Butkus is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of more than 60 years, Helen; and their family. source

David McCallum, ‘NCIS’ actor, dead at 90

The Truth News — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 19:59:20 +0000

David McCallum, ‘NCIS’ actor, dead at 90

David McCallum, who portrayed a medical examiner on “NCIS,” died on Monday. He was 90.

McCallum’s representative confirmed his death to Fox News Digital. He died of natural causes at New York Presbyterian Hospital.

“David was a gifted actor and author, and beloved by many around the world. He led an incredible life, and his legacy will forever live on through his family and the countless hours on film and television that will never go away,” CBS said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.

David is survived by his wife of 56 years, Katherine McCallum, his sons Paul McCallum, Valentine McCallum and Peter McCallum, his daughter Sophie McCallum and his eight grandchildren. source

Nashawn Breedlove, ‘8 Mile’ actor and rapper, dies: report

The Truth News — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 19:55:57 +0000

Nashawn Breedlove, ‘8 Mile’ actor and rapper, dies: report

Actor and rapper Nashawn Breedlove, who faced off against Eminem in a rap battle on the movie “8 Mile,” has died. He was 46 years old.

According to TMZ, who first confirmed the news, he died in his sleep at his home in New Jersey Sunday. The cause of death is currently unknown.

On Tuesday, Breedlove’s mother also confirmed his death on Facebook, writing, “Nashawn’s departure from this world has left an immense void in my life, one that words cannot fully express. I can’t put into words the pain and hurt that I feel. He was not just my son; he was a remarkable man whose character and strength inspired all who crossed his path.”

She thanked the public for their support and prayers.

Rapper Mickey Factz also took to Instagram to pay tribute to Breedlove, posting the battle from “8 Mile” and writing, “RIP to one of the few emcee’s to beat Eminem… Lotto from 8 Mile. Who’s friends lovingly called him, OX. You will be missed for your tenacity and aggressiveness.”

Breedlove was primarily known for playing Lotto in the 2002 movie “8 Mile,” which is loosely based on Eminem’s life. Before starring in the movie, Breedlove rapped under his stage name OX. He was featured on the soundtrack for the 2001 film “The Wash,” alongside Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. source

Nashawn Breedlove, a performer best known for appearing in a rap battle against Eminem in the 2002 movie “8 Mile,” has died at age 46.

His mother, Patricia Breedlove, confirmed his death in a post on Facebook published Tuesday.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of my beloved son Nashawn Breedlove’s passing. Many of you knew him by his alias’ Lotto, ox’, a name that echoed his resilience and determination,” she wrote.

“Nashawn was a rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. No one could deny his talent,” continues the post.

Breedlove called her son “a remarkable man” whose “departure from this world has left an immense void in my life, one that words cannot fully express.”

It is not clear how Breedlove died, but his death drew tributes from other figures in the music industry.

“RIP to one of the few emcee’s to beat Eminem… Lotto from 8 Mile. Who’s friends lovingly called him, OX,” wrote rapper Mickey Factz in a post on Instagram, referring to the scene in the movie in which he competes in a rap battle against Eminem’s character.

“You will be missed for your tenacity and aggressiveness,” he added. source

Actor Angus Cloud died of accidental drug overdose: coroner

The Truth News — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 19:49:20 +0000

Actor Angus Cloud died of accidental drug overdose: coroner

OAKLAND, Calif. – Euphoria actor Angus Cloud died from a lethal combination of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, KTVU has learned.

Cloud, 25, suffered acute intoxication from the combination of drugs which also included benzodiazepine, according to the Alameda County Coroner on Thursday.

Shortly after his death, Cloud’s family said goodbye to the departed artist, describing him as a friend, brother, and son. He had also been a student at the Oakland School for the Arts alongside co-actor and friend, Zendaya.

“The only comfort we have is knowing Angus is now reunited with his dad, who was his best friend,” his family’s statement read. “Angus was open about his battle with mental health and we hope that his passing can be a reminder to others that they are not alone and should not fight this on their own in silence.”

TMZ first reported on the cause of death.

Cloud’s family wished for him to be remembered for his humor, laughter, and love for everyone.

The late actor rose to stardom with his role as Fezco “Fez” O’Neill in the acclaimed series “Euphoria,” a character he portrayed for two seasons. Despite his newfound fame, Cloud never forgot his Oakland roots and remained deeply connected to his hometown.

News of Cloud’s sudden passing sent shock waves throughout the Bay Area, prompting tributes from local politicians and sports teams alike.

Congresswoman Barbara Lee paid tribute to the young actor.

“I am saddened to hear of the death of Angus Cloud, a brilliant young actor & Oakland’s own. His immense talent touched the lives of countless people. His work & legacy will forever live on and make Oakland proud,” Lee said on Twitter.

San Francisco Supervisor Matt Haney described Cloud as genuine, authentic, and humble.

“He had such a bright future ahead of him,” he wrote. Adding, “An Oakland native. Rest in peace Angus Cloud.” source

ANGUS CLOUD Cause Of Death Revealed …COMBO OF FENTANYL, COCAINE & MORE

Angus Cloud died from a lethal combination of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and more in what’s being ruled an accidental overdose … TMZ has learned.

According to the Alameda County Coroner, the “Euphoria” star suffered acute intoxication from the combination of drugs which also included benzodiazepine.

TMZ broke the story, Angus died at his family home in Oakland July 31 — police and the fire dept. responded after his mother, Lisa, reported a “possible overdose,” saying he didn’t have a pulse.

A source close to the family told us Angus had been battling severe suicidal thoughts after burying his father in Ireland the week before. Angus was staying with his family, trying to work through overcoming his grief … though his mom denies her son was suicidal.

As we reported, Angus’ father, Conor, passed away in May after a short battle with cancer, which Lisa said “moved quickly which was devastating to all who loved him.”

Angus attended an album release party just a few days before his death … appearing to be in good spirits at the time while partying it up with a bunch of people.

@darinpaints

In the wake of his death, Angus’ friends came together to paint a mural in Oakland … which has since become a gathering place for people wanting to remember him.

The mural was even the site of a candlelight vigil … and the artwork captured the attention of Angus’ “Euphoria” costar Zendaya, who posted about it on social media.

Zendaya’s also been among the celebs sharing tributes to Angus … she says she will cherish every moment they shared.

We covered Angus’ death on a previous episode of The TMZ Podcast, available on all podcast platforms. source

Former Buccaneers Wide Receiver Mike Williams dead at 36: report

The Truth News — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 20:30:19 +0000

Former Buccaneers Wide Receiver Mike Williams dead at 36: report

Williams scored 26 touchdowns in 63 NFL games

Former NFL wide receiver Mike Williams reportedly died Tuesday at the age of 36.

Spectrum News in Buffalo reports that Williams was working at a construction site when he suffered injuries in an accident.

Williams, a Buffalo native, attended Syracuse University, and as a true freshman in 2006, he led the team with 461 receiving yards. He was an all-Big East selection the following season, but was suspended for the 2008 season for academic reasons.

Wide receiver Mike Williams of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on during a game against the St. Louis Rams at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, on Oct. 24, 2010. (Michael DeHoog/Sports Imagery/Getty Images)

In seven games in 2009, he caught 49 balls for 746 yards and seven touchdowns but quit the team due to a possible suspension after he violated team rules following a car accident.

Nonetheless, he was still a fourth-round selection by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2010 NFL Draft, and he impressed quickly.

In his rookie season, he led the team with 964 receiving yards, and his 65 receptions were one shy of tying the team lead. He also scored 11 times, the most on the team, and his impressive campaign was good for a second-place honor for Offensive Rookie of the Year behind St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Williams is seen during the game against the Detroit Lions at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, on Dec. 19, 2010. (Getty Images)

The Bucs signed him to an extension worth close to $40 million before the 2013 campaign, but he played in just six games that year and was then traded to his hometown Buffalo Bills, where he spent one season.

In 2015, Williams was supposed to be suspended for the first six games of the season, but he remained a free agent throughout the year.

Williams’ 20 touchdowns at Syracuse are tied for the second-most in school history, along with Pro Football Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison.

Mike Williams of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers runs with a catch against Thomas DeCoud of the Atlanta Falcons at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, on Dec. 5, 2010. (Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)

In his professional career, he totaled 223 receptions for 3,089 yards and 26 touchdowns.

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