Jon Stewart -- Retirement Trumps Covering the Donald (VIDEO)

Z STAFF

EXCLUSIVE

You’d think Jon Stewart would be licking his chops to get in on election season … to sound off about Donald Trump and the Republican candidates, but he tells us he’s got a wayyy better gig now.

We got the ex “Daily Show” host this morning in D.C. — he’s there supporting a bill for 9/11 first responders — and wondered if he wishes he’d stuck around through Nov. 2016.

Check out Stewart’s awesome answer … it proves some people really can walk away.

Side note: Props to Jon on the sweet retirement beard.

Leonard Maltin -- "Straight Outta Compton" is Oscar Worthy

Z STAFF

EXCLUSIVE

Famed film critic Leonard Maltin has high praise for “Straight Outta Compton” … and we’re talkin’ Oscars.

Maltin was leaving LAX Tuesday when our photog asked if the Dr. Dre flick will be a contender in 2016. 

Leonard’s a big deal in the movie biz … he’s a respected critic, so his opinion could have an impact.

Could it be … and will Jerry Heller get invited?

See also

• "Straight Outta Compton" Star Aldis Hodge — Wins Most Fiscally Responsible Actor Award (VIDEO)


• "Straight Outta Compton" Stars — We Were Starstruck By Terror Train Heroes


• Jerry Heller — I"ve Got Two Dates for "Straight Outta Compton" … My Lawyers! (VIDEO)

"League" Star Steve Rannazzisi -- I Lied About Escaping Twin Towers During 9/11

Z STAFF

breaking news

“The League” star Steve Rannazzisi has pulled a Brian Williams … he’s been lying for years about narrowly escaping from the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

Rannazzisi was forced to admit he made the whole story up after the New York Times put the heat on him. Rannazzisi now says, “I don’t know why I said this. This was inexcusable. I am truly, truly sorry.”

Rannazzisi’s tale was that he was working for Merrill Lynch on the 54th floor of the south tower when the first plane struck the north tower. He said he escaped before the second plane hit. He says it was a life-changing moment and decided to pursue his dream … a career in Hollywood. 

The comedian is featured in commercials for the restaurant chain Buffalo Wild Wings. The company told the Times they’re re-evaluating their relationship with him. As for “The League” … it’s a moot point — the show is in its last season. 

See also

• Devo Co-Founder — 9/11 Themed Wedding … Box Cutters Anyone?


• Sony Hackers Warn of 9/11 Attacks in Theaters Showing "The Interview"


• "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" — Studio Deletes Offensive 9/11 Tweet

James Harden -- Awesome Drunken Pledge to Make Adidas Amazing (VIDEO)

Z STAFF

EXCLUSIVE

James Harden is officially the greatest boozed up spokesman in sports history after making an amazing pitch for Adidas and disavowing Nike … while spilling out of a club at 2 AM. 

The Beard had his $ 200 million Adidas contract on the brain as he and his crew left 1 OAK Wednesday morning. Naturally, our photog asked if everything was cool with his new bosses … y’know, since James was spotted wearing Jordans the other night. 

Just watch — cause the video is awesome! As Harden jumps into his SUV he starts yelling, “I got $ 200 million!” … and then brags “Adidas is about to be amazing!”

There ya go Adidas … all the promotion you ever wanted and more.

Oh, and we checked Harden’s kicks last night. NO NIKES! Balenciagas, bro.

See also

• James Harden — Adidas Drops the Hammer … NO MORE AIR JORDANS!! (PHOTO)


• Khloe Kardashian & James Harden — Set Off HUGE Birthday Fireworks … City Officials PISSED! (VIDEO)


• Khloe Kardashian — Lamar Who?? Gets Cozy With James Harden For His BDay