BBC

The Trinity Street house used as a filming location for Dorris’s home in the hit BBC series Gavin & Stacey is available to book via Sykes Cottages

This house is a national treasure in Wales, having featured in every series of the much-loved TV show Gavin and Stacey. Now, fans of the sitcom can experience it for themselves.

Affectionately known as the ‘Lush House’, guests can spend the night in the South Wales home that belonged to Gwen and later Dorris in the series. Located on Trinity Street in the heart of Barry, this iconic red-bricked terraced house served as a filming location for the show for many years.

It even became the central family home in the final episodes, making it particularly special for fans. Now, those eager to immerse themselves in the world of the show can book a minimum two-night stay.

Since its television debut, the house has undergone a bit of a makeover, with a fresh coat of paint and some modern updates for the comfort of its guests.

This slice of British TV history comes equipped with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay, all while knowing you’re in rooms once graced by TV royalty.

The property can accommodate up to five guests, making it perfect for a group getaway to the seaside, where you can explore other locations featured in Gavin and Stacey.

As for sleeping arrangements, there are two cosy bedrooms: one with a double bed, reminiscent of the one our favourite couple stayed in, and another featuring two twin beds in a bunk – ideal for children.

Downstairs in the communal living areas, guests can enjoy unlimited rewatches of their favourite episodes with a TV and Wi-Fi. Plus, an electric fire ensures the place stays cosy and warm, making it a perfect getaway for all seasons.

It’s worth noting that the property also features a dishwasher, saving you time on washing up, and a washing machine for those planning a longer stay. Additionally, there’s a quaint garden patio area for those moments when you fancy some fresh air.

Beyond the confines of the home, Barry has plenty to offer, and it’s all conveniently located right at your doorstep. With roadside parking available, it’s easy to jump in the car and explore the town, just like your favourite telly family.

You can take in the iconic Barry Island promenade, complete with arcades and fish and chip shops for a quintessential British seaside experience. Why not drop by the much-loved Marco’s Café or even try your luck at the slot machines where Nessa used to work, and where some of the show’s most hilarious scenes took place?

Aside from the Gavin and Stacey highlights, the area boasts a wealth of attractions for families, including the lively Barry Island Pleasure Park. For those who prefer the great outdoors, Porthkerry Country Park offers stunning woodland walks with breathtaking views of the Bristol Channel.

You can secure a minimum of two nights’ stay in the Lush House, with prices starting from approximately £472, though rates fluctuate during the summer months. Reservations can be made online through Sykes Cottages.

Mrs Brown’s Boys fans were left less than impressed as the BBC comedy returned for its second instalment on New Year’s Day

After the opening episode broadcast on Christmas Day, Mrs Brown’s Boys made its comeback with a second instalment on New Year’s Day, leaving audiences thoroughly unimpressed.

Reports suggest the 2025 Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas special failed to crack the top 10 most-watched programmes on Christmas Day, pulling in just 1.6 million viewers.

The 2024 Christmas Day special managed to secure 2.2 million viewers, according to BirminghamLive, representing a dramatic drop from the inaugural Christmas special in 2013, which commanded an audience of 11.5 million.

The plot summary for the second festive episode states: “Tensions are high as Agnes ( Brendan O’Carroll ) and the gang prepare for an incoming storm.

“Buster’s flying high as he nervously awaits his birthday parachute jump, Winnie receives a shock to the system, and a lost nun is in need of help,” reports the Express.

Within moments of the episode beginning, viewers flocked to social media to voice their opinions, with one posting on X: “GET MRS BROWN’S BOYS AXED.”

Another commented: “I swear every shot of Cathy in #MrsBrownsBoys is blurred slightly, even in HD. It’s like watching on VHS.”

A third chimed in: “As if I haven’t had to put up with enough torture today, me nans put Mrs Brown’s Boys on.

“Unfunny drivel,” declared someone else, whilst another simply wrote: “What a load of s****.”

One viewer remarked on X: “Three goalless draws on Match of the Day tonight, and yet it will still be more entertaining than the Mrs Brown’s Boys New Year’s Special.”

However, not all viewers agreed with the criticism. One fan defended the show, saying, “Still a staple of Christmas and New Year’s TV.”

Another chimed in, “The new year one is so much better than Christmas when it comes to the special effects. Keep making more and tell the haters … ‘that’s nice’.”

There was also some discontent about the Christmas Day episode, with fans taking to social media to air their grievances.

One disgruntled viewer remarked, “The BBC has just witnessed the biggest switch off in their history as they announce the Christmas special of #mrsbrownsboys.”

Another quipped: “The 1.6 million people who watched Mrs Browns Boys need to give their heads a wobble.”

Despite the complaints, many fans rallied behind the comedy, advising those who weren’t fans to simply “switch channels”.

One supporter retorted, “What’s with all the people whining about #MrsBrownsBoys? If you don’t like it, change the f***ing channel and move on. Stop ruining it for the people who enjoy it.”

The Mrs Brown’s Boys New Year Special is now available for viewing on BBC iPlayer.

**For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website**

Antiques Road Trip star Angus Ashworth has shared the items he would most like to find in his work, including rare Victoria Cross and Napoleonic War medals

Antiques Road Trip’s Angus Ashworth has disclosed his ultimate discovery – and it could command a staggering price. The seasoned antiques specialist and auctioneer, a familiar face on BBC’s Antiques Road Trip and his own programme, The Yorkshire Auction House, has encountered countless valuable treasures throughout his career.

However, he’s opened up about specific pieces he’s particularly keen to stumble upon. “I love military history, so my dream find would be a Victoria Cross or an Army Gold Medal from the Napoleonic Wars,” he revealed. “That’s the holy grail for me.”

When discussing potential values, the expert estimated between £60,000 and £80,000 for an Army Gold Cross medal. Angus also presents Yorkshire Heritage Hero, which follows him exploring Yorkshire’s magnificent country estates, assisting families in discovering valuable pieces from their properties.

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He pinpoints critical repair needs and generates funding for restoration projects by unearthing and auctioning concealed treasures found within these historic residences.

The presenter observed: “No one has an ‘antiques sale’ anymore – these days it’s always a ‘country house sale’. People have really bought into the idea of this quintessentially British interior look. The public fascination provides potential to keep things above water.

“There’s a huge second-hand market for items such as dark furniture, lighting and table lamps, and soft furnishings – so curtains, cushions and rugs,” he added. “And there’s one place in particular worth checking: the garden shed.

“There can be real value in the garden and what’s in the shed – my day job is as an auctioneer, and I can see a huge interest and value in decorative pieces for the garden, from plant pots to benches.”

He also highlighted that 90s nostalgia items like games consoles and Harry Potter first editions are hot commodities among buyers looking to recapture their youth.

“You can even see it in the classic car world,” he added. “The market for people who dreamed of owning an MG has shrunk, while Ford Escorts are now far more desirable because that’s what people remember wanting.”

Last month, viewers of Antiques Roadshow watched in amazement as a man was adamant he wouldn’t sell his family heirloom, despite learning its eye-watering value.

As experts looked at a timepiece, horological expert Alastair Chandler hailed it “a real classic”. The Speedmaster watch belonged to the guest’s father, who only wore it on special occasions throughout his son’s childhood.

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It’s time to ring in the New Year and there’s no better place than celebrating with Jools Holland, Mirror man Mark Jefferies can now reveal the secrets behind the celebrations

It’s 8.47pm and I’ve only had two ­bottles of beer but I am on my feet singing and dancing along ­without a care in the world. Others are arm-in-arm or hugging and a few people look a bit teary. In this make-believe world I have entered, it’s New Year’s Eve, and it’s midnight.

I celebrated 2026 before all of you, thanks to Jools Holland and a magical night in a dazzling West London TV studio on December 10. Jools Holland’s Hootenanny is as much part of the festive calendar as soaps and the monarch’s Christmas Day speech. Tonight is the 33rd time Jools will bring in the new year for millions.

Comedian Peter Kay even wrote about it in his latest book, saying that his mum still thinks it is live. My big question before going to Versa Studios was how do they create the party atmosphere which, it turns out, is as authentic as it looks on TV.

Guests are offered drinks at a free bar (rare for the BBC) and take their seats. Later, they are given glasses of prosecco to help celebrate “midnight” – about 30 minutes after the music starts.

Jools asks us to be quiet when the artists sing and cheer as loud as possible at the end. “If you feel the urge to dance and physically move, that is marvellous. Everyone is looking very beautiful and we’ve some incredible musical guests.”

This year’s bill includes Rolling Stone guitarist Ronnie Wood, Olivia Dean, Craig David, Lulu, Jessie J, The Kooks, Heather Small, Imelda May and the 1st Battalion Scots Guards.

Executive Producer Alison Howe says the mix of musicians is important and there are several versions of the running order and set list, which change before the final version on the day.

The other key thing is people who go along let themselves believe it is New Year’s Eve. She says: “You kind of enter into a magical world where you forget about what’s happening outside the doors.”

The show is also a big deal for lots of the musicians. Kooks frontman Luke Pritchard says: “It’s quite nerve-racking but in the best way. Hootenanny’s not just another gig, it’s THE New Year’s show. Everyone’s watching, hopefully everyone’s in a good mood, and you’re part of this moment that only happens once. It’s a proper privilege to be fair.

“And knowing you’re the soundtrack to someone’s night, maybe the song they’re kissing to at midnight or dancing round the kitchen with their nan and that means a lot to me. It’s quite touching when you think about it.”

After posing for a photo with me, Jools is off and doesn’t stop for the next three hours, greeting and chatting to A-list stars. Once the recording starts, he is introducing music, playing it himself on the piano and with his band or interviewing famous faces in the crowd. The only help he gets is from whiteboards with names or directions on, so that he can navigate a giant circle of bands, singers and guests.

When the recording is over, Jools tells me: “It’s a bit like a swimming pool you just throw yourself in and it’s all right, really, once the water’s OK and you start swimming, you keep the momentum going.

“You’re trying to remember what you’re playing on piano. When that finishes, you think what happens now? That’s why they’ve got a board, so I can remember where I’ve got to go to for the next bit.”

The aim is to film it without any breaks or stops and, aside from a couple of brief moments when production requests a pause which is necessary, filming is non-stop. Jools explains: “You want the energy to keep going. So if we record it in one and then it’s like real. It was all just, bang, bang, bang.

“There’s a few little mistakes in there, but who cares? It is what it is.” A definite highlight is singing sensation Olivia Dean, who performs hits and joins Jools in a version of Natalie Cole’s 1975 debut hit This Will Be (An Everlasting Love).

He says: “Olivia Dean has gone ballistic this year. When she was on the show a couple of years ago she was playing clubs. Now she is selling out stadiums around the world, from Rio to Munich to London’s O2, and adding on nights.

“She’s a remarkable, ­unbelievable person. She likes doing stuff with us, or doing stuff for me, because she goes back to what she used to listen to when she was a kid, things like Carole King, and in this case, doing that Natalie Cole song.

“I thought it was great. The sort of thing someone might do at a Christmas party. When I was little my nan would have a Christmas party and all my uncles and aunts would sing their favourite songs, which were often the musical songs. And it’s a bit like that.”

Jools’ band is the other key element, playing with many of the artists, including new songs and cover versions they don’t usually perform when on the road.

They get a day’s rehearsal in the studios and then the other bands join them on the afternoon of the recording day, so everyone gets to soundcheck and practise their tracks.

Jools says: “There’s a lot for my band to learn, lots of music to learn, and lots of things to arrange for the horns. That’s the bit the general public doesn’t see.

“Listening to stuff in their hotel rooms, making notes, so when we go into rehearsal, and the first time it’s counted in and we play, it sounds all right. And I’m not just saying this, the band has never sounded better.”

Jools’ Annual Hootenanny, BBC2 and BBC iPlayer, tonight, 11.30pm.

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Celebrity Apprentice fans were left stunned after Lord Sugar announced the winners on Tuesday

The Celebrity Apprentice winners were announced on Tuesday (December 30), with fans claiming the results were “fixed”.

The first of two festive specials for BBC Children in Need aired on Monday (December 29), seeing 12 well-known personalities jet off to Lapland to craft their own Christmas gingerbread biscuits and devise marketing campaigns, complete with adverts and catchy jingles.

Team one comprised Tom Skinner, Matt Morsia, Shazia Mirza, Angela Scanlon, Sarah Hadland, and project manager JB Gill. The rival squad included Charlie Hedges, AJ Odudu, Jake Wood, Kadeena Cox, Eddie Kadi, and project manager Rob Rinder.

JB’s team dreamt up Gary the Penguin, an unusual creation combining bubblegum and white pepper flavours. Rob’s team countered with Jolly Mc Trouble, a gingerbread featuring vanilla and Christmas pudding notes, though their batch ended up slightly overdone, reports Wales Online.

Tonight’s episode saw both teams showcase their creations to a panel of industry retailers at a central London venue.

Matt, Shazia, and Tom stunned their fellow contestants when they revealed their promotional video, which prominently featured Tom screaming whilst dressed in a penguin outfit.

After completing market testing sessions with groups of youngsters, the teams began fine-tuning their crucial presentations. The celebrities also tapped into their personal networks to secure advance orders.

For the pitch, JB’s group brought in Rylan Clark alongside Gladiators stars Montell Douglas, Livi Sheldon and Matty Campbell – also known as Fire, Diamond and Bionic. In contrast, Rob secured video messages from several celebrity pals, including acting legends Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman.

When they returned to the boardroom, Lord Sugar praised Rob’s team for their compelling biscuit backstory and Jake’s carefully crafted advertisement. Yet in a surprising turn of events, JB’s team secured victory after attracting the highest number of orders.

Rob’s team managed to secure 355,500 units, whilst JB’s team racked up an impressive 452,000 orders. Despite this, viewers at home were left unimpressed by the outcome, taking to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their displeasure.

“Fix, how did they win with that crap?!” one viewer posted, whilst another questioned: “How the f*** did that team win with that diabolical advert.”

A third viewer expressed: “Shocked that the Gary The Penguin team won. They had the worse TV advert and their flavours were disgusting. Jolly Mc Trouble should have won.”

However, one viewer supported the winning team, commenting: “I’m pleased Gary the Penguin won as even though their ad was awful, the product made far more sense (and the jingle was catchy)!”

As the episode concluded, project manager Rob brought Kadeena and Jake back into the boardroom, where Lord Sugar ultimately decided to fire Rob.

The Celebrity Apprentice is available to stream on BBC iPlayer

For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new Everything Gossip website

Alan Carr, who won The Celebrity Traitors in November, was earlier this month as narrow as 3/1 to become a new face of Strictly Come Dancing following the exits of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman

Comedian Alan Carr is said to be out of the running to become the new Strictly Come Dancing host.

The presenter, who won The Celebrity Traitors last month, is understood to be on tour when Strictly airs in 2027. He had been tipped to replace either Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, whose last programme was last week’s Christmas special.

Broadcasters are reportedly “gutted” they have been unable to sign Carr, 49, whose popularity has soared since his The Celebrity Traitors win. However, it is understood the comedian cannot rearrange his 2027 tour, many dates of which have already been sold out.

A BBC source said: “Alan is out of the Golden Ten possible hosts and won’t be taking part in the tests the BBC are gutted. He was their favourite to take on one of the positions but he’s spoken with the BBC and basically he cannot move his tour. The dates which are scheduled for 2027 are not able to be rearranged and Alan has had to choose. The BBC understand his position but they are hugely disappointed.”

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The BBC is now believed to be interested in luring 37-year-old Rylan Clark, who used to present sister programme It Takes Two on BBC Two. Clark, a regular face on This Morning, is now 5/2 with some bookmakers to replace either Daly or Winkleman.

The source told The Sun: “They thought Alan would be such a great choice for the job. Rylan has now replaced Alan as one of their top choices, it will come down to how Rylan gets on in the chemistry tests.”

Alan, whose comedy chat show Alan Carr: Chatty Man ended in 2016 after seven years, has 90 dates scheduled for his UK and Ireland tour in 2027, including gigs in London, Cardiff, Belfast and Edinburgh. However, the second leg of the tour begins in September and runs right the way through to November, which clashes with Strictly.

At 3/1 last week, Alan was one of three names who were the frontrunners, with Bradley Walsh and Alex Jones also favourites. According to reports, contenders will be put through a series of partner-swap chemistry tests, with BBC executives keen to find the perfect on-screen pairing.

Speaking previously, an insider told The Sun: “Replacing Claudia and Tess is a mammoth task but the BBC have whittled down the talent to ten people.

“As well as Bradley, Alex and Alan, Rylan Clark, Rob Rinder, Zoe Ball, and Holly Willoughby will be at the chemistry day. Amanda Holden, Alison Hammond, and Angela Scanlon have made the cut too.”

Strictly’s head judge Shirley Ballas admits it will be ‘sad’ to film the BBC dance programme without Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as the hosts after their unexpected exit

Shirley Ballas has revealed her true thoughts on Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman quitting Strictly Come Dancing. The presenting duo announced in October that they would be departing the series this year after over two decades on the programme.

While they didn’t give any indication as to why they made the decision to step back, the pair simply told fans they were passing over the “baton” to new presenters. But for head judge Shirley, 65, she admits that it will be “sad” to return to the dance studio without the bubbly pair.

In a new interview, Wallasey-born Shirley has revealed she was “surprised” when she heard that they were stepping down after 11 years fronting the BBC show. Winkleman, 53, and Daly, 56, had fronted the series together since 2014, and their last appearance presenting the show together was during its pre-recorded festive episode, which aired on Christmas Day.

“Everyone was surprised,” Ballas said. She went on to tell Saga Magazine, for their January issue: “I share the changing room next to them, and they are full of giggles and laughter.

“They also showed me the way from when I joined until now, so it will be a sad day when they go.” Shirley, who admits she had no TV experience when she joined the show, made her debut as head judge in September 2017. But while Shirley has appeared on nine seasons of the show, she almost quit the year after she joined.

“I didn’t know if I wanted the job back because of the intrusion, people selling stories, the constant criticism,” she explained. But it was her son, fellow dancer Mark, who encouraged Shirley to stay on the show. He told his mother that the programme would give her a platform to shout about causes she’s passionate about.

But while Shirley was shocked about Tess and Claudia’s decision to exit, the stars of this years series found out when the pair made a public announcement. “We’d just finished on Lorraine, and we just looked at our phones and we saw it on social media,” actor Lewis Cope said.

He added: “We were so shocked. And then we were told later, it had to be that way, and they couldn’t really give anyone a heads up.” This, however, hasn’t stopped several celebs being linked to the job. These include Zoe Ball, who previously hosted It Takes Two, former professional dancer Janette Manrara and Roman Kemp.

However, Chief Content Officer for the BBC, Kate Phillips, has been sifting through dozens of names. She said on the Rest Is Entertainment podcast that her emails had been “inundated” with people sharing their interest.

“We have had so many people who are keen to be considered, which is great,” she said. This year, it wasn’t just Tess and Claudia’s unexpected exit which saw a major change to Strictly, the casting vote in the dance off also rotated between Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood and Anton du Beke.

“They called me about the idea and I loved it,” she said of the new decision. Shirley added: “It’s onerous; quite often there’s just a hair’s breadth in it, so it makes sense to share it. And when I spoke to Craig [Revel Horwood], he said, ‘Darling I’ve been waiting 21 years to send somebody home.’ It made his day.”

The full interview is available in Saga Magazine’s January issue.

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Thomas Frake beat an array of talent, including Natalie Coleman and Brin Pirathapan, to the title of Champion of Champions 2025 in the programme’s Christmas edition

Chef Thomas Frake was last night crowned MasterChef’s Champion of Champions 2025 in its festive special.

Frake, who won MasterChef in 2020, took home the winning title after outcooking three former champions – 2013’s Natalie Coleman, 2023’s Chariya Khattiyot and 2024 winner Brin Pirathapan – on the BBC One cooking competition special, MasterChef Festive Extravaganza: Champion of Champions.

The chef, who runs a village pub called The Silks in Marlborough, Wiltshire, said: “This feels amazing. I’m grateful more than anything.

“MasterChef is what got me onto this journey in the first place. To come along five years later and be validated that my food was worthy again of another trophy is incredibly special. The first trophy will stay at home, this trophy is going straight to my pub.”

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Taking on two demanding challenges, the returning champions had to first deliver an end of the year showstopper for the judges and critic Tom Parker Bowles.

Next they had to prove just how far they have come since they first appeared on MasterChef as amateur chefs, tasked with creating two of the best courses they have ever cooked.

Frake’s final winning menu consisted of a main course inspired by a dish he cooked for Dent in 2020, a roast venison marinated in treacle, served with a venison and pear barley stew, wild garlic puree, charred shallot, bubble and squeak, and a venison and port sauce.

For dessert he made a brioche bread and butter pudding, coated in panko breadcrumbs, topped with butterscotch raisins, in a Pedro Ximenez sherry sauce, served with a brown butter ice cream.

During the judges’ deliberations over all their cooking that day, John Torode, who was a judge on the festive special alongside Grace Dent, said: “I need to be truthful, that was probably the best food I’ve ever eaten in the history of MasterChef. That was extraordinary.”

He later added: “Thomas’ love of great British food and what he likes to call pub grub is so infectious that it’s only when you eat his food that you understand what sort of cook he’s become since he’s left the competition.”

Meanwhile, Dent described Frake as a “fascinating chef”. She added: “He cooks crowd-pleasers absolutely beautifully with loads of finesse and that’s why Thomas is our champion of champions.”

Torode’s appearance, which was filmed earlier this year before he was sacked, marked his final time on MasterChef. The presenter’s contract was not renewed following an allegation of using racist language which was upheld as part of a report into claims of misconduct on the show.

The Australian chef will be replaced by Irish chef Anna Haugh from the show’s next series, MasterChef: The Professionals. MasterChef Festive Extravaganza: Champion of Champions is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

Former EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick cut a glum figure as he shared a new year message with his followers months after being axed from the long-running BBC soap

It’s been a year to forget for Jamie Borthwick, and now the actor has shared a sad Christmas message. Months after being let go by EastEnders producers, Jamie, 31, has uploaded a sombre looking image and message.

He had played the part of Jay on the BBC soap since 2006. However, following a fallout amid Strictly chaos, Jamie found himself suspended by the soap. Three months later, he was axed, losing his role in September this year.

Now, in a rare social media update, Jamie has tried to look on the positive side of things – even if his picture appears to portray a different message. Taking to Instagram, he shared a picture of himself looking glum while wearing a paper Christmas hat.

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The black-and-white image was accompanied with the words: “Wishing everybody a very merry Christmas and let’s hope for a slightly better 2026 for us all xx.” He added a peering face emoji and an emoji of a face giggling.

Jamie has largely remained off social media since his axing from the long-running soap. He had been suspended following footage being revealed in which he used a severely derogatory term.

He was heard using the offensive term for people with disabilities to describe Blackpool residents while filming Strictly in the seaside town. The BBC said at the time that his language, caught in a clip on a phone, was “entirely unacceptable and in no way reflects the values or standards we hold and expect”.

At the time, BBC Studios, which makes the soap, said: “We can confirm that Jamie Borthwick will not be returning to EastEnders. We do not comment on individual matters.”

Disability charity Scope said that Jamie should reflect on what he had said and urged him to educate himself. It added: “We hope he takes the opportunity to get to know the reality of disabled people’s lives.”

The star, who had played funeral home manager Jay Brown, was spotted after the decision looking downcast and unshaven. It is understood he was only told about the bosses’ decision days before news broke.

He had reportedly been set to return to set to recommence filming after the suspension. However, he was instead shown the door. with the BBC saying: “We are very clear on our expectations that inappropriate behaviour and language will not be tolerated.”

In June, Jamie said: “I am deeply sorry for any offence and upset my words and actions have caused. It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning.

“That is on me completely. Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong.”

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The Big Night of Musicals Christmas special aired on BBC One on Saturday night (December 27) with viewers spotting a vital detail

Big Night of Musicals viewers were left scratching their heads after spotting a glaring detail during the festive BBC programme.

On Saturday night (December 27), Jason Manford presented what was billed as the Christmas compilation of this year’s finest stage musicals.

The show featured performances from the casts of Matilda, Mary Poppins, and Wicked, alongside numbers from cherished films such as Back to the Future, and tributes to music legends like Tina Turner.

However, within minutes of the broadcast beginning, sharp-eyed fans noticed a dead giveaway that this wasn’t actually a fresh compilation but rather a repeat.

Flocking to X – previously Twitter – numerous viewers highlighted that several audience members could be seen wearing face masks throughout the performances, reports the Express.

It wasn’t long before astute watchers realised this television round-up contained footage filmed during the coronavirus pandemic.

One viewer wrote: “When was the Tina Turner bit filmed if people are in masks?” whilst another questioned: “Erm… I’ve seen this exact performance before? ? ? Is this a repeat?”

A third viewer confirmed their suspicions, stating: “YUP… This entire this was a repeat.”

Nevertheless, despite the programme being a rerun from a previous year, many fans still relished the musical spectacular and flocked to social media to heap praise upon it.

One enthusiastic viewer wrote: “Loving Big Night of Musicals with @JasonManford, great that the schools and colleges have been shown too, not just established productions. I’m looking forward to next month even more now [musical notes emoji].”

Another fan concurred: “Really enjoying watching #BigNightOfMusicals on @BBCOne with @JasonManford,” while a third chimed in: “That was brilliant @JasonManford [green heart emoji]. Only problem is now I want to book to see Wicked, Matilda, and Mary Poppins again [crying emoji, laughing emoji].”

The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals is gearing up for its fifth dazzling instalment next month, featuring showstopping performances from West End smashes including Wicked, Miss Saigon, Jesus Christ Superstar and many more.

The show will once again be hosted by Jason Manford and will take place at Manchester’s AO Arena on 26 January 2026. Speaking about the upcoming extravaganza, Manford enthused: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be hosting The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals for the fifth year running.

“The 2026 line-up is phenomenal; some of the biggest shows in the world are coming together for one night only, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it. This event is also a huge thank you to National Lottery players whose support keeps theatre alive and accessible.

“Without their contributions, so many productions, training programmes, and venue restorations simply wouldn’t be possible.”

For those unable to attend the event, the fifth instalment will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in Spring 2026.

Big Night of Musicals is available on BBC iPlayer

EastEnders fans rejoiced as the Witches of Walford reunited in explosive scenes that played out in the BBC soap’s famous pub on Christmas Day as various truths were outed

EastEnders fans rejoiced as the Witches of Walford reunited in explosive scenes that aired on Christmas Day. The BBC soap aired its festive special on Thursday evening, and it was revealed exactly who had been tormenting Zoe Slater with threatening letters over the past few months.

Zoe made a much-anticipated comeback to the serial earlier this year, and it emerged later that she had twins almost 20 years ago. At the time, it was believed that the little girl had died and she had given her son away for adoption. Having been searching for her son for months, Zoe finally believed her son was about to turn up on Christmas Day, but it was all a wicked plot set up by a mysterious figure.

Earlier in the day, Zoe got into an altercation with Antony Trueman, the biological father of her children, at the top of the stairs in the Queen Vic which ended with her knocked out cold. In a surprise twist though, it was revealed that Zoe had woken up relatively unharmed and Anthony was dead.

READ MORE: EastEnders’ Jasmine’s link to Cindy ‘explained’ as Chrissie’s secret family ‘revealed’READ MORE: EastEnders’ Tracy-Ann Oberman breaks silence on ‘obsession’ amid Zoe stalker hell

After Kat discovered them, she cleared out the pub and they were greeted by Chrissie Watts, who was last seen in 2024 driving away from the square following a long spell in prison for the murder of her husband Den. Chrissie, who had broken into the pub and fired up a karaoke microphone, said: “Ladies. Both of you. What a treat! Zoe pleaded: “Where’s my son?” as Chrissie confirmed: “He’s not coming I’m afraid…”

She added: “Torturing? With a few harmless games? I thought it was time we’d have a little reunion. It’s been so long. You’re not a drippy little girl anymore. Life has really toughened you up.” Zoe demanded to know why Chrissie was back on the scene, but she wouldn’t say anything without having a drink first.

It was then that Jasmine Fisher stepped into the pub and Chrissie confirmed that they knew each other. Zoe worked out that Jasmine was her daughter, even though she thought she had died several years ago. Jasmine said: “Only because you couldn’t be bothered to stick around the hospital long enough to hear me cry.” Through tears, Zoe pleased: “They took you away! You weren’t breathing,” but Jasmin continued: “Maybe I should be flattered because at least you didn’t just abandon me like you did my brother.”

“We’ve known each other a while, haven’t we, Jas? I was back in London seeing my parole officers. They can’t get enough of me, I’m a popular girl. Anyway, I bring up my phone, and there’s a picture of my old pal Zoe. You’d been through the wars. I thought it was a sign and decided to bring flowers. But when I got there, they wouldn’t let anyone near you and that’s when I bumped into this lovely one.”

“We both hate you. We wanted to teach you a lesson.” Jasmine raged that Zoe had never tried to find her once she knew she was alive but Kat reasoned: “We only found out today!” Chrissie twisted the knife further and brought up the fact that Zoe had slept with her husband Den several years ago.

Coldly, she added: “I pay for my crimes. And now you’re gonna pay for yours. But your punishment is gonna be in here. You’ve got a lovely little girl and you’re never gonna get to know her.”

Kat told Jasmine: “Look at her, she has really suffered, she has spent her whole life regretting this and yes, she makes bad decisions but she’s not a bad person. This here, Chrissie, she’s the evil one.” There was then another twist for fans as Sam Mitchell made her grand return to the soap by stepping out from behind the bar.

She said: “It’s not often that I side with Kat Slater. But she’s right. Chrissie Watts is evil.” Fans of the long-running BBC soap, which celebrated its 40th anniversary earlier this year, will know that Chrissie, Sam and Zoe formed the trio known as The Witches of Walford during their 2000s heyday.

At the time, an iconic storyline saw Chrissie instigating a revenge plot against her husband Den, and persuading Sam and Zoe to go along with her before she tried to frame them for Den’s murder.

Chrissie said: “The three of us. Back again. Who’s gonna turn up next? The ghost of Den?” Sam then asked Chrissie if she was related to Jasmine, and even though Zoe protested that she was the mother, Chrissie cut in to say: “She could’ve been mine! She’s the same age as the baby I lost in prison.”

Kat then demanded the three of them leave but Zoe, now in tears, tried to make her long-lost daughter see that Chrissie had simply goaded her into another revenge plot. Sam then brought up Chrissie’s manipulative ways to try to make Jasmin see sense.

Outside, Jasmine tried to get rid of Chrissie and insisted that she would be “better off” alone. Chrissie then warned Jasmine against mentioning her name to any law authorities, and walked back out of Albert Square. Jasmin and Zoe had a heart-to-heart, and when the police did arrive, Zoe stopped Kat from trying to cover for her and handed herself in as her mother wept.

Fans were quick to react to the reunion, with one fan writing on X: “Hahaha chrissie appearing like that in the Vic,” and a second added: “Kat, meet one of your first grandchildren!”

Another said: “This is vintage” and a fourth added: “Sam, Zoe and Chrissie in the same room in 20 years [crying emoji],” whilst another dramatically exclaimed: “THIS IS A HUGE SHOWDOWN!”

EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

We’ve built five quizzes to celebrate five BBC shows – but only those with the biggest football trivia brains can beat them all.

So, is your knowledge the Strongest Link or is it more Pointless?

With the exception of our Mastermind quiz, which has used past questions on the show, all these quizzes have been written by the BBC Sport team and are just inspired by the relevant BBC quiz.

The quizzes get harder as you go – good luck with our Only Connect finale. It’s time to put yourself to the test!

Former EastEnders star Liam Hatch has addressed the backlash he faced when he was cast as a schoolboy in the legendary BBC soap opera, despite nearing the age of 30

An EastEnders star has opened up about the backlash they faced over their controversial casting. Liam Hatch, 29, was cast as school bully Logan in the BBC soap opera last year, and fans were left quite bewildered.

Despite playing a Year 12 schoolboy, who intimidated Amy Mitchel and Denzel Danes, Liam’s character was ten years older than the typical Year 12 students in England, who are between 16 and 17 in the UK. Introduced by Kate Oates and Chris Clenshaw, Liam’s character appeared in just one episode and attracted a fair amount of criticism on social media.

Many viewers were shocked to discover his Instagram page, which boasts topless gym snaps and his annual birthday snap, which sees him posing nude as the camera takes a picture from behind. Now, the actor has spoken in depth about the backlash he faced.

“The grief I had from it, from Twitter – I sell mortgages, I’m 41, the oldest man alive,” he said. Liam joked: “I don’t look that old!” He went on to explain that he wasn’t 16 when he took on the role, saying: “I was 26.”

Speaking about the response he received from friends and family, the athlete and actor added on the Rokman Podcast: “All my friends and family were like ‘Are you okay? People are taking the p**s out of you. Your age, looks.’ I was like ‘Oh God, I’m not that bad. I’m sure I SPF every day. I look good.

“My dad was loving it, he was like ‘He’s on The Sun!’ I think I’m the only man to be on Page 3 of The Sun topless!” He continued: “I always say to everyone, if your name is coming out of other people’s mouths, you’ve done something, and it doesn’t matter how good or bad it is, it’s happening.”

At the time of Liam’s episode airing, fans were quick to share their thoughts on social media. One said: “Why is this 44-year-old man walking around in a school uniform and picking fights with the local kids?” A second penned: “Almost certain that this schoolboy sold me my mortgage.”

Shortly after the criticism, Liam explained that the comment about being 44 had stuck with him. Speaking to The Guardian, Liam said: “I was looking in the mirror, thinking ‘surely I can’t be looking 44 – that’s five years younger than my dad!'”

Liam, who works as a personal trainer when he’s not preparing for his latest HYROX challenge, said that some of his clients believed he was around the age of 23.

He added to the outlet: “A few of my friends asked if I was OK. But I’m in the performance and fitness industries, I know you’re going to get critics. As long as the performance is showing you are that character, that’s what’s important to an actor. You’re not looking at the appearance but the emotion.”

Liam also explained that while he played a younger character, times had completely changed since he was around the same age as a Year 12 student. He explained that he tried to modernise himself, including his posture and body language as the current generation of teens “have more suave” when they walk and talk.

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BBC One’s new Christmas drama Stuffed has been branded “iconic” by fans

A hidden treasure of a comedy on the BBC, hailed as “brilliant” by viewers, is set to air tonight.

Stuffed, starring Guz Khan and Morgana Robinson, is a comedy-drama that follows a family embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Lapland.

Khan portrays Arslan Farooqi, who, after receiving an unexpected £8,000 Christmas bonus at work, decides to take his multi-faith family on this festive adventure.

Joined by his wife Hannah (played by Robinson), his two daughters, and brother-in-law Jamie, they trade Coventry for the enchantment of Christmas in Lapland.

However, their holiday soon descends into chaos when Arslan discovers that his bonus was given in error and needs to be returned, reports Wales Online.

The BBC’s synopsis teases: “Things go downhill fast when Arslan finds out the bonus was a mistake, and to make matters worse, they have already spent every penny of it.

“What ensues is one man’s quest to salvage a Christmas he doesn’t believe in, while ideally not losing his job, his family, and everything he has ever worked for. And surprise, surprise, it doesn’t go too smoothly.”

For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website

The film can be streamed on BBC iPlayer and will also be broadcast on BBC One tonight at 9pm.

One enthusiastic fan recommended: “If you’ve not watched it yet, try Stuffed on the iPlayer. Brilliant new addition to the Christmas film list. Guz Khan is brilliant.”

Another viewer gushed: “Absolutely loved Stuffed on BBC iPlayer with my fav man @GuzKhanOfficial, him and Morgana are a dream team working together.”

Another viewer chimed in: “Loved it, hope some more will follow!” while a fourth echoed: “We need a regular series for this! Loved it made me laugh throughout.”

One enthusiastic fan declared: “This is iconic on tv I didn’t know what to watch during the Christmas holidays, same old home alone and polar express but this… is perhaps the best drama I’ve seen.”

Guz had previously shared his apprehensions about Stuffed’s release with The Guardian, saying: “You never know when you make something. I never thought we’d ever be in this kind of slot. There’s lots of things that come along with doing a Christmas special.”

He continued: “A lot of the work I get asked to do is like: ‘Come in and do your thing.’ I just did season two of The Gentlemen, and it was such a fun week. There’s no rules. You can go absolutely crazy.

“But this was a little bit different. You have to follow some guidelines. And so it was a really good challenge for me. Where I’d usually express myself with dialogue, I had to try and get the same feeling with an expression.”

Stuffed airs on BBC One tonight at 9pm and is available to watch on iPlayer.

Thomas Skinner was said to be ‘suing’ the BBC over his early exit from Strictly and has claimed that the BBC ‘rigged’ the votes to orchestrate his elimination from the dance competition

Thomas Skinner has hit back at press attention of his rumoured feud with the BBC in furious statement made on Good Morning Britain. Ahead of the Strictly Come Dancing live final on 20 December, it was reported that Skinner was ‘suing’ the BBC as he believed they had ‘rigged’ the votes to ensure he would be eliminated first, which the BBC strongly denied. The broadcaster made clear that they had not received any legal paperwork and Skinner did not confirm that he was suing.

However, after refusing to appear in the live final, Skinner posted a statement to X where he said he “received an anonymous email claiming to be from a BBC exec with stats, saying I’d received far more votes than it appeared and it wasn’t right”. Following the statement, The Mirror exclusively revealed that Skinner’s voting figures may not be as high as he believes.

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A source pointed to an independent exit poll of 125,000 viewers as “clear evidence of his unpopularity.” It showed how Skinner attracted just 1805 votes, which was the lowest of any contestant on the BBC programme. The source claimed: “The poll – which is larger than an exit poll for a general election – comprehensively shows that Skinner was the least popular contestant by a long way. There is no conspiracy. These are the cold, hard facts.”

Hitting back at the article in a statement shared on Good Morning Britain, Skinner said he was “struggling to understand” why his words on X were getting so much attention. He said: “I don’t hate the BBC – they gave me my big break on The Apprentice. I had discussions with my representatives on Wednesday evening which I believed to be private and confidential and I spoke openly with them in confidence.

“I was obviously gutted when I received the email on the evening I left the show, and at first I didn’t believe it was true. When I raised this in conversation, I was advised by the BBC to seek legal advice. I’ve had a difficult year with the press attention I didn’t seek, and I’m honestly struggling to understand why this continues to escalate. “

Similarly, when approached by The Mirror, Skinner said he did not believe the low voting figures were accurate but refused to reveal how he was able to verify the “anonymous email” his information came from.

He said: “Regarding the anonymous email and verification process, I don’t wish to comment further at this time or release anything publicly. As for the voting figures, I know for a fact that the information you have is not accurate. That said, it doesn’t materially matter to me now, and I’m not looking to contest this publicly.”

Despite “not looking to contest this publicly”, Skinner made a lengthy public statement on X where he insisted his elimination was “unfair” and that a BBC exec had told him that the broadcaster was angry over his friendship with JD Vance.

He wrote: “On the night I left the show, I received an anonymous email claiming to be from a BBC exec with stats, saying I’d received far more votes than it appeared and it wasn’t right. I’ve since had the email independently verified.”

“That same email mentioned the BBC was very angry an nervous simply because I had met JD Vance (USA VICE PRESIDENT). Let me be clear, I’m not a political bloke. Never have been. I just love my country and am patriotic. I’ve been made out by the press to be this political figure. If anyone was to get an opportunity like what I did, they would have taken it. I still think it is mad that a man like me who sells mattresses out of a van can call someone that senior in the world ’s politics a friend now.”

“I have asked to see the official voting figures to back up the ones I was sent in the email but was told they couldn’t be shown to me. And have never been shown in the history of the show. I have spoke about the email I had received to senior people and the BBC welfare team, who btw I genuinely respect. And they was the ones who advised me to get legal advice because of how unfair it all was. (This was not my idea).”

However, a BBC spokesperson said Skinner never shared the email he referenced. They told the Mirror: “”In response to Tom’s latest statement, the BBC said: “Strictly Come Dancing’s public vote is independently overseen and verified to ensure complete accuracy every week. Any claims to the contrary are entirely without foundation. Unfortunately, despite requests for it, Mr Skinner is yet to share the email he references with anyone from the BBC so we are unable to comment on it.”

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THE Muppet Show is making a 50th birthday comeback — with pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter joining as a special guest. 

Disney has revealed Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and the gang are back for a one-off special, more than four decades after the curtain came down on the beloved original series.

The show will stream on Disney+ from February 4, promising fans “music, comedy and a whole lot of chaos” from the original Muppet Theatre.

In a teaser clip, Kermit’s green arm can be seen turning on the lights of an old studio, before placing down a mug with his name on it.

The show originally ran from 1976 to 1981, with a generation of kids singing along to the theme tune: “It’s time to play the music. It’s time to light the lights.”

The series became so popular that big name stars clamoured to be guests, including Sir Elton John, Johnny Cash, Diana Ross, John Cleese and Debbie Harry.

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It was broadcast in more than 100 countries and in 1978 Time magazine called the show “the most popular television entertainment now being produced on Earth”.

The series won a host of awards, including Emmy, Grammy and Bafta gongs.

Despite the lights going out on the main series, the Muppets Tonight talk show ran from 1996 to 1998.

Other short-lived TV projects followed, including a mockumentary series in 2015, the Muppets Now short form series in 2020 and The Muppets Mayhem musical comedy series in 2023.

A host of movies included The Great Muppet Caper in 1981 and The Muppet Christmas Carol in 1992.

The last film, Muppets Most Wanted, in 2014, starred British comedian Ricky Gervais.

Muppets creator Jim Henson died in 1990 and Disney bought the rights in 2004.

Sabrina, who has had four UK No1 singles and two UK No1 albums, is an executive producer for the new show, as is Canadian comedian and actor Seth Rogen, who was in the 2020 series.

Death in Paradise star Don Warrington has been happily married to actress Mary Maddocks for many years with the couple sharing two children together

Death in Paradise is set to grace our television screens once more with a Christmas Special in just a few days, promising “even more heart” according to the BBC.

The beloved Death in Paradise Christmas cast makes their way back to Saint Marie for another year of holiday celebrations, though what begins as the ultimate office party quickly descends into darkness.

Broadcasting on December 28 at 8.30pm on BBC One, the BBC reveals: “The office Christmas party of a lifetime takes a dark turn when four co-workers wake up with the hangover from hell to find a stranger shot dead in the pool of their villa.

“DI Mervin Wilson and the team identify the murder weapon, but they’re left baffled after discovering that it was locked in a drawer when the shooting took place… thousands of miles away from the crime scene.”

Running for approximately 90 minutes, the festive episode promises the return of beloved characters, reports the Express.

Earlier this year, the 14th series concluded, leaving fans anxious about Don Warrington’s character Commissioner Selwyn Patterson.

After 14 years on the programme, the actor became a viewer favourite, making his departure in March all the more heartbreaking for audiences.

During the final series of Death in Paradise, Selwyn decided to leave Saint Marie following the loss of his Commissioner role, turning down the opportunity to reclaim his position when it was offered back to him.

Nevertheless, fans must wait patiently to see whether the Commissioner will make his comeback… particularly given his recent appearance in the Christmas special of Beyond Paradise. But who exactly is Don Warrington and what’s his marital status?

Don Warrington is happily married and has been for quite some time. The Death in Paradise actor is currently married to Mary Maddocks, with the couple enjoying many years of marital bliss.

Don prefers to keep his personal life private and away from the public eye, with their exact wedding date remaining a mystery, but it’s clear that his family life continues to thrive away from the limelight.

His wife Mary has herself graced several iconic productions including ITV’s Coronation Street as well as Doctor Who and Midsomer Murders.

She has also directed numerous theatrical productions ranging from musicals to dramas, and even took centre stage in the hit musical The Rocky Horror Show.

Don and Mary are parents to two children, Jacob and Archie, both carving out their own paths in the entertainment industry.

As a playwright and comedian, Archie has contributed to the creation of the 2023 thriller Gassed Up as well as the TV series Intergalactic, receiving full backing from his parents.

It was previously reported that Archie paid tribute to his parents, stating: “Both my parents are actors. My mum, Mary Maddocks, is an actress: she was in The Rocky Horror Show when it was in the West End and my dad is Don Warrington.

“The main thing I get from both of them is they understand the art of performance and the need to perform.”

For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website

Death in Paradise Christmas special will air December 28 on BBC One.

To celebrate her last show with Strictly Come Dancing, the cast surprised host Claudia Winkleman with a touching tribute that left her screaming as she struggled to open the final vote

Claudia Winkleman was left screaming after she was surprised with a touching tribute from the Strictly Come Dancing cast. As she informed audiences that the final vote of the season was open, she was shocked to see several dancers had donned replicas of the blazer she was wearing and wigs that looked exactly like her hair.

The host, who announced in September that she would be leaving the show after over a decade, screamed “No way!” when she noticed that not only had the dancers dressed up like her, but notoriously grumpy judge Craig Revel Horwood had as well. He remained stony faced as he stared at the camera from behind the fringe, but Claudia still reacted with utter joy.

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Claudia kept covering her mouth, laughing and screaming as she realised what was going on. It was the most emotional she had been about her exit so far, as Claudia and Tess Daly, who is also leaving the show, both seemed to choose not to address their exit at the start of the show and instead focus on the dancers.

But this did not stop Claudia from making a statement with her final show. She herself had made a tribute to prior host of the show during the series by wearing a blazer with the words “Keep dancing” written on the back.

The words were the catchphrase of original host Bruce Forsyth. Claudia took over as a primary host for Bruce in 2014, co-hosting with Tess when he stepped down.

Elsewhere in the show, Claudia pretended she and Tess had decided to do a showdance. Though this was not an explicit joke about them leaving, when Tess turned down the opportunity to dance, Claudia jokingly said to the male dancers that had accompanied her to the dancefloor: “Apparently tonight is all about the finalists.”

It came as a surprise to many when Tess and Claudia announced that they would be stepping down from the show after over ten years on it. The pair made the announcement via Instagram.

In a joint statement, they said: “We have loved working as a duo and hosting Strictly has been an absolute dream. We were always going to leave together and now feels like the right time.

“We will have the greatest rest of this amazing series and we just want to say an enormous thank you to the BBC and to every single person who works on the show.”

Taking to Instagram again, Tess and Claudia made a low-key goodbye to the show via another post. In this one, they shared a series of images from backstage, including one that showed off Claudia’s blazer. They captioned the post: “You better believe we’re gonna keep dancing.”

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