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Now Christmas is over for another year, many people are making plans for the new year – including travel plans to destinations with great weather and activities to do

Christmas is done and dusted for another year with many people looking to make plans to make the most of 2026. Travel is a common goal, with escaping the gloomy winter weather and January blues a high priority for lots of people.

After the expense of Christmas, and the ongoing cost of living crisis, finding reasonably priced options for holidays or a spot of travelling can be quite tricky. Social media is rife with ideas, recommendations and tips from experienced and novice jet-setters alike.

One person turned to Reddit looking for a viable option for a trip with their girlfriend this month. The couple want to spend 30-35 days abroad, with a budget of around £2,600 to £3,000, excluding the cost of their flights.

That sum would purely be their spending money for “accommodation, food, transport, activities, etc”. They live in the Baltics, so would be flying out from either Lithuania, Latvia or Estonia and were “open to any destination – Asia, South America, Africa, Europe, islands, you name it”.

Their main requests were for “good weather (ideally warm/sunny in Jan); a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation; a destination that’s good value for money over a full month of travel;” as well as the option for “adventure”, including “hiking, wildlife, or just exploring new places”.

They asked guidance from people who’d done a similar trip or had “any suggestions on where to go”. And fellow Reddit users were keen to share their thoughts and recommendations.

One person said: “Two weeks in Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai). Five days in Bangkok. Two weeks on Islands in Southern Thailand (Koh Lipe, Koh Phanang)”.

Another agreed: “Can 100% recommend Koh Lipe. It is a small island so you’ll probably max out of things to do after about four days unless you’re happy just lazing by the beach all day.”

A third said: “It’ll be summer in the southern hemisphere if you’re looking for warm weather. New Zealand comes to mind as it sounds like you’re looking for nature – haven’t been there myself but the pics look incredible”.

But someone else replied: “That budget won’t get you far in NZ for that long sadly”.

Another suggested: “Tanzania and Zanzibar might suit you”.

To which, someone else shared: “I am leaving Zanzibar tomorrow after a week here. It has been great. The people are friendly and the beaches are great.

“Even the vendors on the beach are easygoing and fun to chat with. There is a good range of accommodation options too, and the food has been awesome. Asante sana.”

Another recommendation came for south east Asia: “Malaysia would be an excellent option. Accommodation, transport and food is very cheap and there’s lots to see.

“I’d visit Penang, Langkawi, Perhentian islands, Borneo, KL and Cameron Highlands. You’ll get to see lots of wildlife, hikes, history, beaches etc.”

And another said: “El Nido, in the Philippines would work, as would Da Nang in Vietnam or one of the kohs in Thailand. If you haven’t ever ‘done’ the ‘Banana Pancake Trail’, that’s really the first place that I would start. Start watching flights to BKK [Bangkok].”

Offering a different perspective, one person said: “Northern Turkey is fabulous with all its ancient sites from Roman and Greek eras especially on western side.

“The lodging and food is very inexpensive. The wine is excellent. Istanbul area is also great. Also greatly enjoyed Athens Greece with all its history. Food and drink was fabulous. Ate at one restaurant which gave us unlimited after dinner wine.”

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

Gogglebox stars Sue and Steve Sheehan have celebrated a special family milestone

Gogglebox stars Sue and Steve Sheehan have stunned fans with a snap of their rarely-seen daughter.

The married couple first joined the cast of the Channel 4 show back in 2019, and have since become fan favourites with their witty commentary from the comfort of their stunning South London home.

Steve, a retired black cab driver, and Sue, who is semi-retired, have been married for nearly 47 years. They have two daughters, Leah and Kate, as well as a grandson named Roman.

Sue and Steve took to Instagram on Saturday (December 27) to share a rare photo of their youngest daughter Kate as she celebrated her 40th birthday.

“Our 2nd born 40th birthday today. Happy Birthday my darling, celebrations later,” the caption read, alongside several photos of Kate over the years.

Sue later shared a throwback photo of their daughter when she was younger, as well as one of her 40th birthday cake.

“The beautiful retro cake made by @claires_cakes5 and the old holiday photo,” she wrote.

On Monday (December 29), the stars went on to share more photos of a celebratory dinner for their daughter, which took place at Boys Hall restaurant in Kent.

The caption read: “A good time was had by all @boys.hall sharing a special birthday with the family.”

Several Gogglebox fans have shared their well wishes in the comments section, with one person writing: “Beautiful young woman, happy happy birthday. Best wishes to your gorgeous daughter.”

Another added: “Happy birthday to your lovely girl,” while a third said: “What a beautiful girl happy birthday.”

A fourth fan echoed the sentiment, saying: “Stunning girl you have!” with another similarly sharing: “Your daughter is absolutely beautiful. You have every reason to be proud.”

The news comes after Sue announced that she had Bell’s Palsy, which causes temporary weakness or paralysis in the muscles on one side of the face.

After an extended break from Gogglebox, the star told viewers that she had to “relearn” a couple of things since the diagnosis, explaining: “One is to speak through the side of my mouth, and the other one is chewing. Chewing takes a long time.”

Steve then joked: “I have offered to chew your food for you, but you declined. I’ve gotta say, you haven’t lost the sharp side of your tongue though, have you?”

“No, it’s sharper than ever actually,” Sue quipped in response.

Gogglebox is available to stream on Channel 4

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

IT’S rare for an X Factor star to still be around 16 years after losing what was once the biggest show on TV but Stacey Solomon played the long game – going on to become one of the busiest women in entertainment.

This year in particular has been huge for Stacey – having launched her own reality show and landing a spot judging on BGT – but insiders tell us the 36-year-old is struggling behind the scenes as she wades against the vicious turning tide.

The Sun has been told that mum-of-five Stacey is in panic mode as the negativity increases, desperate to get people back on side. 

A source revealed: “The bottom line is Stacey is no longer relatable. 

“People think she flaunts her wealth and moans all the time – now Stacey’s being advised to rein it in and shut her mouth or risk ruining everything she’s worked so hard for.

“The plan is for Stacey to go back to basics and remember who her audience is. No more bragging about expensive holidays and keeping in mind not everybody is in her position”

Stace cashed in on her relatable ‘ditzy’ personality and – instead of chasing a record deal – turned her attention to social media and the fast cash that comes with being an influencer. 

A Loose Women gig ensured she was always in the headlines while online posts sharing her tips and tricks for keeping a house going soon turned into something much more lucrative, releasing books and launching prime time BBC show Sort Your Life Out. 

She also signed with the BBC for the fly-on-the-wall series Stacey & Joe, which gave viewers a regularly uncomfortable insight into the ups-and-downs of her marriage to Joe Swash.

It has all helped determined Stacey, 36, build up an estimated net worth of £7.3million and live a comfortable life in a £1.3million Essex mansion she calls Pickle Cottage with Joe and her children. 

But nobody likes a show-off and Stacey’s girl-next-door mask has been slowly slipping for some time now, with fans turning on her for “flaunting her wealth”. 

Earlier this year she was branded “smug” after bragging about her latest family holiday to Turkey, which set her back a staggering £30,000 a WEEK. 

Not exactly the kind of holiday that most of Stacey’s followers – who ironically helped pay for the OTT break – can aspire to. 

And even Stacey’s crafting is becoming increasingly out of budget for the average person. 

Stacey shares Rex, six, Rose, four, and two-year-old Belle with Joe, 43. 

She is also mum to Zachary, 17, and Leighton, 13, from previous relationships. 

Creative Stacey left fans’ noses out of joint when she showed off homemade decorations for Belle’s birthday, revealing an incredible display of pink and red roses. 

Someone wrote: “Looks amazing….effective and dreamy..however I think the cost of flowers would be quite high for a lot of people… x.”

And another added: “Very expensive for the lay folk x.”

In another move which drew criticism, viewers of on Stacey & Joe were quick to notice her enthusiasm for plugging her private side-hustles – including fashion, homeware and perfume brands.

The repeated appearances of Stacey’s products, some seemingly laid out for the cameras, drew accusations that the show was breaching strict BBC rules against ‘talent’ promoting products on-screen.

PANIC MODE 

Stacey is someone who’s undoubtedly used to a bit of backlash here and there – a thick skin is required to survive in her industry. 

In May the ‘loveable’ and ‘goofy’ Stacey bared her teeth when she had an almighty diva tantrum over not winning a Bafta. 

Sort Your Life Out was nominated in the Entertainment category but lost out to Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour. 

Stacey was furious – and didn’t hold back when she took to Instagram to share her thoughts. 

She said: “We didn’t win a Bafta. And I know I’m supposed to take it gracefully like a champ but, I’ll be honest, I’m devastated!

“I’m not handling it very well, I’m not taking it very gracefully – I’m devastated! I’m devastated for our whole team, like I’m so gutted for our team.”

And just months later she launched a blistering attack on the National Television Awards when Sort Your Life Out and her fly-on-the-wall Stacey & Joe were nominated in the same category.  

She told Magic Radio: “They’ve put Sort Your Life Out and Stacey & Joe in the same blummin’ category for some reason – we’re up against each other which is absolutely ludicrous.”

Our insider said: “Stacey’s been made aware the public aren’t fans of whinging – the Baftas meltdown was embarrassing and she came off as entitled.

“And the only thing she should’ve been was grateful when both of her shows were given nods at the NTAs.”

CAUSING TENSION

Stacey and ex-EastEnders star Joe tied the knot at Pickle Cottage in 2022 and the couple don’t shy away from airing their dirty laundry on their reality show. 

One scene on the most recent series showed them clashing after Joe allowed their kids to eat dinner on the sofa while Stacey was working away. 

During a tense phone call, a furious Joe branded his wife “out of order” before hanging up on her. 

Another episode saw Joe struggling with the chaotic school run while Stacey was on a luxury trip to Lake Como, Italy for a photoshoot. 

He didn’t hold back, confessing: “Stacey’s like the permanent teacher and I’m the substitute teacher that the kids just take advantage of.”

We’re told something else bubbling away is Stacey – who has six million Instagram followers to Joe’s two million – often left feeling like the backlash from the public is mainly aimed at her. 

A source said: “Things between her and Joe are tense at times because of the sudden unrelenting backlash.

“Stacey tells Joe she takes the brunt of the negativity and that he should be more understanding of the pressure she’s under.

“They love each other and their marriage is totally solid but when she wants to be Stacey can be cutting.

“On more than a few occasions a row has resulted in her telling him she’s sick of being the breadwinner – which is a real kick in the teeth for Joe.”

The couple now have the chance to take a break and reset over Christmas – although they are letting the cameras in to film a third series of their reality show.

And fans should expect a much more down-to-earth approach on the family show, with Stacey desperate to be seen as a relatable, hard-working mum once again.

WAG Rebekah Vardy has run into trouble with her booze brand less than a year after it was launched.

Vardy, 43, launched SKTL last December with former footballer and I’m A Celebrity campmate Dennis Wise, 58.

The £25 flavoured vodka — inspired by husband Jamie’s love of mixing Skittles sweets into the spirit — appears to still be on sale from the company’s website.

But disappointed fans told The Sun on Sunday they had waited months for bottles ordered in October that never arrived.

Eventually, they received an automated message saying their money would be refunded but were given no explanation for the delay or cancellation of the order.

When one customer tried to contact Sktl, they found the company’s main email address bounced back.

READ MORE ON REBEKAH VARDY

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Another customer said: “I’m furious, it took two months to find out they weren’t going to deliver.”

Pals of Rebekah — whose husband moved from Leicester to Serie A side Cremonese this summer — revealed the mother of five has paused work on the drink brand to settle into life in Italy.

The source said: “There’s no problem with the brand; and it’s still something Rebekah wants to push on with.

“But, just for the moment, she’s had to take a breath – so she can focus on Italy and organising the family moving out and then getting settled in there.

“Once that’s all sorted, vodka will be back as one of her focuses!”

ITV viewers took to social media to complain after watching Jamie Redknapp on the Christmas special of Ant & Dec’s Limitless Win on December 27

Viewers of ITV were left divided on Saturday night (December 27) as they settled in to watch the Christmas edition of Ant & Dec’s Limitless Win.

The festive episode saw two unsuspecting members of the audience receive a delightful shock when they were called up to take on the Limitless ladder alongside celebrity partners.

Throughout the programme, mother-of-two Brooke teamed up with Amanda Holden, but her journey ended prematurely after getting stuck on merely five questions.

In contrast, former soldier Nigel was matched with footballing icon Jamie Redknapp, and their partnership proved far more successful. Their performance was so impressive that the pair managed to nail three questions in a row with perfect accuracy.

Among the challenges they tackled was: “How many holes does a standard golf course have?” to which they correctly responded 18.

They also encountered the question: “How many mm wide is a standard Lindt Lindor chocolate truffle?” For this particular challenge, the duo opted to use their advantage card, submitting one response whilst Ant and Dec provided another, with the system removing whichever answer was furthest from the truth, reports the Express.

Jamie and Nigel put forward 32 as their response, whilst the presenting pair underestimated with 28, which turned out to be spot on.

Their third perfectly accurate answer came when asked “How many stripes does Where’s Wally have on his T-shirt?” correctly identifying the number as 10.

However, after the tense scenes aired, viewers took to social media in droves to voice their frustrations over the perceived ease of the show’s questions, with many labelling it a “fix”.

One disgruntled viewer wrote: “P*** easy questions, such a fix” while another echoed the sentiment, saying: “Come on chaps, they have got through with the equivalent of asking what comes after C in the alphabet.”

A third chimed in: “The golf course question was a bit of a gimmie,” and a fourth jested: “Three exact answers in a row! Woahhhhh! [laughing emoji]”.

Meanwhile, another fan quipped: “Happy Christmas, the next question is… what is your house number? [cry-laughing emoji].”

After achieving an impressive hat trick, the amy vet decided to cash out with an impressive £30,000 in the bank, which left the guest almost in tears. He couldn’t help but thank Jamie for his help throughout the nail-biting game, as they walked out arm in arm.

The festive special arrives just weeks before the new series returns next month, as part of a double recommission announced earlier this year. Since launching in 2022, Limitless Win has given away over an astonishing £3.5million and has been streamed 13million times, reaching over 25 million viewers.

Ant & Dec’s Limitless Win is on ITV1 and ITVX

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

EXCLUSIVE: Death in Paradise star Don Gilet has teased the return of a familiar face in Sunday night’s Christmas special

Don Gilet, known for his role as Mervin Wilson in the BBC series Death in Paradise, has hinted at the reappearance of a well-known character in the upcoming Christmas special. In an exclusive chat with Reach PLC and other media outlets, Don gave a sneak peek into what viewers can anticipate from the festive episode airing this Sunday.

Without revealing too much, Don hinted that fans should brace themselves for the return of a familiar face – a speculation some fans believe they’ve already figured out.

He revealed, “It’s a very interesting thing to think about that one of the characters, who is the beating heart of this whole thing that has been there from the beginning, the thought that, from a character perspective, they may not be there anymore, and what hole that leaves.

“Because I suppose, in terms of family, they are the closest thing, and then to think, Mervin is back to feeling like an orphan again, just when he’s starting to embrace what Saint Marie has to offer.”

Speaking on the UK crossover in the holiday episode, Don added, “I think it’s great to see what the UK looks like at the very same time as Mervin is solving crimes in the beautiful sunshine,” reports the Express.

This revelation follows Don Warrington’s surprise cameo in Beyond Paradise’s Christmas special last weekend. Warrington, who portrays Commissioner Selwyn Pattison in Death in Paradise, was seen reuniting with Humphrey Goodman (played by Kris Marshall) and Martha Lloyd (portrayed by Sally Bretton) as the pair finally tied the knot.

The episode concluded with Selwyn receiving a phone call from Mervin, hinting at the Commissioner’s appearance in the upcoming festive episode.

Fans took to a Facebook fan page to share their theories and excitement. One viewer exclaimed, “What a surprise ending and lead into DIP Christmas special.”

Another chimed in, “Should be interesting, looking forward to it.”

A third fan added, “Loved the crossover with Selwyn involved.”

Yet another commented, “Intriguing about the Commissioner’s phone message, and hopefully we will find out in the DIP Christmas special.”

The synopsis for the Christmas episode teases: “The office Christmas party of a lifetime takes a dark turn when four co-workers wake up to find a stranger dead in the pool of their Caribbean villa.

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

“Stranded in Saint Marie, the team enlists the help of a familiar face to solve the case. Meanwhile, Mervin anxiously awaits news from his newly discovered brother, which hinders him from fully embracing the Christmas festivities of Saint Marie. Can Mervin resolve his family situation and get into the festive spirit – for the sake of his team and the island?”

Death in Paradise is set to air on Sunday at 8.30pm on BBC One.

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

Netflix treated Bridgerton fans to the season four trailer on Christmas Day but viewers have noticed a major flaw

The trailer for Bridgerton Season 4 has finally dropped but fans are furious about two characters ‘missing’ from the teaser.

The beloved period drama is set to return to screens on January 29th with four episodes, with another four instalments set to release on February 26th.

Netflix unveiled a two-minute teaser for the upcoming season on Christmas Day, and it focuses on Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) and Sophie Baek’s (Yerin Ha) romance.

Based on Julia Quinn’s third book in the series, An Offer from a Gentleman, the trailer reveals the couple’s Cinderella-style meeting at the Bridgertons’ masquerade ball.

Sophie is shown working as a maid and envying members of high society who get to attend endless parties. So she disguises herself as a ‘lady’ and attends the ball.

However, she must return home at midnight.

Benedict bumps into her and asks for a dance and later tells her: “You are perhaps the most intriguing person I’ve ever met.”

But the couple are separated when Sophie runs home, leaving only her glove behind. Benedict then goes on a mission to find the owner of the glove, hoping he can spark a real connection with her.

Throughout the trailer, viewers see various members of the Bridgerton family including Colin (Luke Newton) and Francesca (Hannah Dodd). However, fans are furious that Anthony (Jonathan Bailey) and his wife Kate (Simone Ashley) are excluded from the teaser.

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Taking to X, formerly Twitter, one penned: “Clearly we understand Kathony [Kate and Anthony] had their season… but it truly doesn’t make sense that the VISCOUNT and VISCOUNTESS Bridgerton, the literal HEADS of the household are nowhere to be seen Imao.”

Someone else chimed in with: “Are you aware large parts of this season are at the home of the Viscount and Viscountess? Where are they?”

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

While a third agreed: “The absurdity of this production writing Kate and Anthony out of Part 1 yet being too cheap to relocate the Bridgertons to a new residence so you have everyone & their mothers hosting balls and living it up at K & A’s house while the viscount & viscountess are nowhere to be seen.”

Yet another unimpressed viewer wrote: “Another Polin [Penelope and Colin] scene in carriage but ZERO seconds of Kanthony,” and a final viewer quipped: “Kate and Anthony going on their eighth honeymoon so that others can live in their house (masterminds behind this show).”

Bailey and Ashley will be in the new season, but it’s unclear how much screen time they will each have. If season three is anything to go by, they may only appear in a few episodes.

Bridgerton season four part one premieres on Thursday, January 29 on Netflix

The film, based on a true story, is based on a daring mission to the moon

We all know the story of the first moon landing when Neil Armstrong became the first man to set foot on its surface but almost as dramatic is the story of three astronauts who almost lost their lives on the USA’s third attempt to stand on the surface.

The Apollo 13 mission in 1969 saw Jim Lovell, Jack Swigert and Fred Haise take off from earth on course for the moon. However, the mission almost ended in disaster and this 1995 blockbuster directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks and Lovell, Kevin Bacon as Swigert and Bill Paxton as Haise is being shown on ITV tonight.

After an unexpected explosion in space, NASA is running out of time to find a way to bring the three astronauts back to earth safely. The film was a huge commercial success when it was released, going on to become the third most successful film of 1995, behind Die Hard With A Vengance and Toy Story, which also starred Hanks.

Apollo 13 also went on to be nominated for nine Academy Awards and picked up two Oscars for Best Sound and Best Film Editing. It was also five BAFTAs and four Golden Globes.

It won over critics with an impressive 94 percent approval rating on the movie review aggregator site, Rotten Tomatoes. One critic described to film as Ron Howard’s “finest work”. They added: “In his finest directorial work, Ron Howard embraces everything that the astronauts of Apollo 13 aspired to be and ended up as. Unforgettable.”

Another said: “Director Ron Howard, who has built a career on easygoing, reassuring movies from Night Shift to The Paper, finally achieves true drama.” A third added: “For Apollo 13, the 1970 space mission, everything went wrong. But for Apollo 13, the movie, everything goes right. Director Ron Howard, who has a history of blowing hot and cold, is so far into his hot mode in this movie that he’s dang near on fire.”

Fans also couldn’t get enough of the movie. One wrote: “A phenomenal epic odyssey of the daring odds of the Apollo 13 crew trying to return back home against all odds after their space shuttle malfunctions. The cast is great, with Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton, and Ed Harris all giving great performances.”

Another added: “Brilliant masterpiece!! It’s very gripping from start to finish!” While a third said: “All-time classic. An American masterpiece.”

Apollo 13 is on ITV4 at 6.35pm on Boxing Day, December 26.

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

Netflix’s mega-hit Stranger Things first hit our screens back in 2016 and now, its fifth and final season is underway with the last ever episode dropping on December 31

Stranger Things’ final season is well underway, a decade after the residents of Hawkins first hit our screens and became a global phenomenon. The Netflix series begins in the small fictional Indiana town in November of 1983, with a cast of beloved characters played by talented actors at varying levels of their careers – and one casting choice has been lauded by fans.

The children at the front of the show were complete unknowns when they first donned 80s gear, accessories and dialogue, hooking viewers with nostalgia and intrigue back in 2016. They were joined by screen icons though, with Winona Ryder as Joyce Byers drawing in many viewers.

Ryder’s performance as the perpetually stressed, chain-smoking mother who refuses to listen to authorities when her son, Will, goes missing in the very first episode added a sense of heart and strength to the show.

The actor’s star power also helped attract viewers to the first season. Ryder shot to fame in a string of quirky, misfit-type roles in the 80s and early 90s, before taking on more dramatic and period roles too.

She’s been critically acclaimed for her acting prowess and has even bagged two Academy Award nominations.

Stranger Things fans have praised the casting choice, with one taking to Reddit to declare: “Winona Ryder being cast as Joyce Byers is one of the greatest casting decisions of all time. I couldn’t picture anybody else in this role.”

In the comments section, people were keen to share their thoughts. One Reddit user said: “I just rewatched season 1 a couple weeks ago and I was just blown away. I think her acting in that season is amazing!

“You see things differently during a re-watch and her acting really struck me and I don’t think I fully appreciated the first time around.”

Another asked: “Where is her Emmy for this role?!”

A third shared: “Winona is my favourite actress. People forget she was HUGE in the late 80s and 90s. I had been hoping for her to have a comeback for years and years and she is wonderful as Joyce Byers.”

A fourth said: “It was so smart to cast her because I didn’t know anything about the show. Just that this new show was coming out on Netflix and Winona Ryder was gonna be in it and I will watch anything with Winona and then it became one of my favourite shows ever.”

Someone else said: “Such a great comeback role for her.”

Another said: “I’ve always been a huge fan.”

One fan shared: “IMO [in my opinion] Season 1 NO ONE could top her acting. Millie was #2 for me…”

Reflecting on other casting choices, another said: “They also did great with casting her boys. They genuinely look like they could be related to her.”

And another added: “The casting of the whole show is brilliant and also is the yardstick for child actors as far as I’m concerned.

“A lot of movies or shows prioritise looks over the actual acting talent of the kids, but these kids can act.”

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 .

Are you a true fan of the fan-favourite sitcom set to make a striking comeback this Christmas or just another Scrappy Doo? Take the 30-question quiz below to find out!

It wouldn’t be Christmas Day without a fun family quiz, and this Gavin and Stacey game will really put your sitcom knowledge to the test. Whether you’re competitive or just having a bit of fun, it’s a good way to get the family together today.

Penned by Ruth Jones and James Corden – who portray the love-hate relationship of Nessa Jenkins and Neil ‘Smithy’ Smith – the popular show returned to our screens last Christmas after five years since the suspenseful ending where Nessa proposed to Smithy on one knee.

So how well-versed are you in the popular telly show? Put your knowledge to the test with our ultimate Gavin and Stacey quiz….

Christmas is three days away, and you’re running out of time to get a gift for the Angels fan in your life. How about a Dodgers cap?

If ever a winter posed a loyalty test, this one could. The Dodgers spent $69 million on Edwin Díaz, the best closer available in free agency, and another $2 million in championship parade costs. The Angels spent $2 million on a closer who put up an 8.23 earned-run average last season.

Next year the Dodgers will try to become the first National League team to win three consecutive World Series. The Angels will try to end baseball’s longest postseason drought at 11 years, still without much of a plan beyond rushing first-round draft picks to the major leagues while treading the financial waters until Anthony Rendon’s contract runs out.

On Sunday they missed out on Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, who signed with the 102-loss Chicago White Sox. Of the Angels’ five acquisitions this winter, three did not play in the majors last season, and not because they are up-and-coming prospects.

If you’re an Angels fan and you’re sick and tired of this, should you reconsider your loyalty?

Jim Bowden believes you should.

Bowden, formerly the general manager of the Cincinnati Reds and Washington Nationals, serves as a baseball insider on several media platforms. On “Foul Territory” last week he suggested fans of small-market teams have an option that might be more constructive than getting angry.

In Pittsburgh, for instance, the owner would rather complain about the lack of a salary cap than spend enough money to build a winner around generational pitcher Paul Skenes.

“You don’t have to be a Pirate fan,” Bowden said. “You can retire as a Pirate fan, or trade yourself to the Dodgers.

“If you want to see your team win, right now the Dodgers have got the best chance to win a World Series again. As a fan, you can root for any team you want.

“You don’t have to root for the team in your home city. You can see the Dodgers play in your home city. They’ll come into Pittsburgh and beat you.

“If it bothers you that much, just become a Dodger fan. It’s fine.”

Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto celebrates with teammates, coaches and owners after the Dodgers’ World Series victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Nov. 1.

(Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

The Angels no longer operate as a large-market team, and their circumstances could get even more dire in the near future.

On Sunday, Sports Business Journal reported that the parent company of FanDuel Sports Network is in jeopardy of shutting down if it cannot complete a sale to streaming service DAZN. The Angels would not disappear from your screens and streams, but it likely would mean the Angels would take a big cut in local broadcast revenue for a second consecutive year.

The Dodgers’ bandwagon shows no sign of slowing. The Dodgers set a franchise attendance record last season. They offer stadium tours in English, Spanish and Japanese. They launched a fan club in Japan.

So, as a frustrated Angels fan, you could hop on that bandwagon. Or you could try another large-market team — say, the New York Mets.

Mets owner Steve Cohen is worth $23 billion, according to Forbes. When Cohen bought the Mets in 2020, he said this: “If I don’t win a World Series in the next three to five years — I’d like to make it sooner — I would consider that slightly disappointing.”

The Mets still have not won a World Series since 1986. On Friday he took to social media to criticize “the usual idiots misinterpreting a Post article on Mets payroll.”

On Sunday, given the Mets’ losses of Díaz and beloved slugger Pete Alonso in free agency, New York Post columnist Mike Vaccaro shot back, comparing Cohen to greatly unloved former owner Fred Wilpon in this adaptation of a Christmas carol: “Steve’s beginning to look a lot like Wilpon/Mets fans say ‘Hell, no!’/What’s the point in being so rich/And a ruthless sonofabitch/If you don’t spend dough?”

The concept of fan free agency — essentially what Bowden suggested — is not new. Every now and then some disgruntled fan will publicly disown his favorite team, then invite rival teams to suggest why he should support them. If you’re creative enough, rival teams will send you some free swag.

That level of desperation is what many Dodgers fans felt a decade and a half ago, when former owner Frank McCourt needed a loan to cover payroll, hired a Russian physicist who channeled positive energy toward the team and “diagnosed the disconnects” among baseball operations personnel, and disparaged as “un-American” the league’s refusal to approve a television contract that he said would have provided the revenue to keep the Dodgers out of bankruptcy court.

Fans wearing Shohei Ohtani Dodgers jerseys wait to enter Angel Stadium before a game between the Angels and Dodgers on Aug. 12.

(Luke Hales / Getty Images)

In 2011, the year McCourt took the team into bankruptcy, the Angels outdrew the Dodgers for the only time. The Dodgers fans did not bail on their team. They waited for better days.

That is where Angels fans are now — and, for that matter, where Pirates fans are too. Bowden’s suggestion that unhappy Pirates fans exhausted by the perennial futility try the Dodgers did not go over well in Pittsburgh. At the Pirates’ fan site Rum Bunter, Emma Lingan wrote: “Fandom isn’t a streaming subscription you cancel when the content gets bad.”

This year’s World Series was the best and most dramatic I ever covered. But the one that was the most fun was the 2002 World Series: the underdog Angels, the Disney team no one projected for a happy ending, rampaging through October and toppling giants. As The Times’ headline on the Game 7 victory put it: “Fantasyland!”

If you were there in 1982 and 1986, when the Angels had six chances to win one game to clinch their first World Series appearance — and lost all six — then you could have a greater appreciation of 2002. And, if you were there for McCourt bankruptcy, you can have a greater appreciation of Guggenheim majesty.

So get that Angels fan in your life an Angels cap. That fan will be able to wear that cap proudly one of these years, and all the tears will make the cap fit that much more snugly.

Princess Kate and her daughter Princess Charlotte shared a touching moment at the royals’ carol concert, Together At Christmas, that had fans in tears, as Louis stole the show

The Princess of Wales and her daughter, Charlotte, delighted fans by sharing a. beautiful moment together at the royal carol service. The concert was filmed at the beginning of December but aired on ITV on Christmas Eve.

Opening the concert, Catherine and Charlotte took to the piano together for a song. As a voiceover from the Princess spoke about the meaning of Christmas, a pre-recorded duet with her daughter played.

The mother and daughter played Holm Sound, a 2020 piece of music by Erland Cooper. It was written for the composer’s mother, Charlotte. Cooper hails from the Orkney Islands, and his work is inspired by nature and connection, themes which, according to ITV, are of deep importance to The Princess of Wales.

READ MORE: Kate Middleton surprise as she duets with Princess Charlotte at carol concertREAD MORE: Kate Middleton gets surprise nod from King Charles in his 2025 Christmas speech

“Omg! It’s The Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte on the piano!” one fan wrote online. Another added: “Aaaw, a mother daughter duet from the Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte. How lovely.”

A third said: “The Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte! So beautiful.” Another added: “Princess Charlotte and our beautiful Princess of Wales playing piano together. What a beautiful vision and spoken words – Together at Christmas. Wow.”

One emotional fan particularly loved Catherine’s speech: “What a gorgeous opening, well spoken and incredibly thoughtful. 1st speech I’ve wanted to listen to this festive season. Found myself quite tearful.”

The Royal Family teased Kate and Charlotte’s musical moment before the concert. They posted a teaser of Kate on the piano to Instagram with the caption: “A special duet…” Fans were excited, and many remembered when the princess accompanied Tom Walker on the piano in 2021.

The Princess has been playing the piano since she was a child. Her second public performance came in 2023 when she appeared in a segment of the Eurovision Song Contest’s opening sequence. She has passed on her love of the piano to her daughter.

During the concert, fans also pointed out how lovely it was to see the whole of Kate and Prince William’s family together. “Beautiful images of the Prince & Princess of Wales & their three gorgeous children. What a wonderful example of family unity & love.”

William and Kate have two sons, as well as Charlotte. George is their eldest, and Louis is their youngest. The younger son is known for his tendency to steal the show at big events, with his outgoing and often silly nature.

In 2023, Louis made many smile as he provided some hilarity to the service. During one song, he leaned over and blew out his sister’s candle. Charlotte was left giggling at her brother’s behaviour, as were many fans.

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Fans of the show have been given a ‘Christmas Eve gift’ from the streaming service

Netflix has given fans of its beloved romcom Emily in Paris an early Christmas present just days after the release of the eagerly-awaited fifth season.

In a post to its official social media accounts, Netflix shared a video featuring Lucien Laviscount, who plays Alfie Peterson on the show, dressed in a brown trench coat and holding a number of large white placards while standing in a road. It captioned the clip: “Lucien Laviscount has a Christmas Eve gift for you.”

In a nod to classic Christmas film Love Actually’s placard scene, the star then looks directly into the camera as he reveals what each card says, with every single one bearing a handwritten message.

“Hey beautiful. Can you stop scrolling for a second?” the first reads, as Lucien waves to viewers before revealing a second that says: “Please read everything I’m about to show you in a British accent.”

“The holidays bring lots of feelings. This is your sign to exhale,” reads the third. The message continues: “You are my favorite gift this year. Your smile sparkles brighter than the Eiffel Tower and your lips are made to be under a mistletoe.”

The subsequent cards continue: “Aside from your beauty you are an incredible soul, an incredible mother/daughter/sister/best friend. Your optimism is infectious. It even makes me blush.

“I am proud of you and love how you show up for yourself. You deserve all the love that you abundantly give. happy holidays, I love you.”

Fans were quick to react to the surprise clip, with one commenting: “This is such a charming holiday surprise and definitely the best reason to stop scrolling today.”

A second fan agreed, adding: “A very on-brand Christmas Eve surprise from Lucien Laviscount, consider this gift happily received,” while a third gushed: “Cheers, Lucien – feeling the holiday warmth now.”

Despite being Emily Cooper’s (Lily Collins) love interest in past seasons of Emily in Paris, Alfie was shown pursuing a connection with her best friend Mindy Chen (Ashley Park) in the latest series which released on December 18.

However, Mindy’s reluctance to go public with their situationship causes the duo to go their separate ways. The synopsis for Season 5 reads: “Now the head of Agence Grateau Rome, Emily faces professional and romantic challenges as she adapts to life in a new city. But just as everything falls into place, a work idea backfires, and the fallout cascades into heartbreak and career setbacks.”

Emily in Paris Season 5 is now streaming on Netflix

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.

Strictly viewers have spotted a very tense moment between professional stars Nancy Xu and Carlos Gu, who are said to have had a falling out last year

Strictly Come Dancing fans have spotted a tense moment between two stars – when Nancy Xu appeared to be annoyed moments before Carlos Gu and Karen Carney were announced as this year’s winners. Nancy, 34, has reportedly been locked in a feud with Carlos, 32, since last year amid claims that the pair had fallen out.

But there was one sign this weekend that appeared to back the speculation. As Karen and Carlos spoke to host Claudia Winkleman, there appeared to be tension brewing in the studio. Elated by their performance ahead of taking home the Glitterball Trophy, Carlos and Karen were both extremely emotional.

Carlos told Claudia that Karen had unlocked his inner “team player” throughout their time on the show. He said: “I came to Strictly after competing live.

“I was self-centred, I was me, me, me. It’s no wonder I didn’t get a partner last year because I’m not grateful.” But Nancy, who this year didn’t have a famous partner, didn’t look impressed as she wrapped her arm around Johannes Radebe.

As the moment aired on screens, fans instantly took to social media to share their thoughts with one writing: “Could Nancy even attempt to hide her dislike for Carlos?” A second penned: “If you don’t like him then stay out of camera shot and keep your feelings to yourself.”

“Nancy so not bothered by Carlos’s tears,” said a third. A fourth typed: “‘No wonder I didn’t get a partner last year.’ Bit of a dig at Nancy, Luba and Neil. For context, Nancy and Carlos were BFFs until a big fallout last year, I think it was.”

However, after Karen and Carlos were announced as the winners, Nancy appeared to offer an olive branch. Sharing a snap of this year’s stars on Instagram, she said: “Congratulations for all the final couples! And Well‑deserved Winner @kazcarney and Carlos. Thank you for all the tears and laughing Strictly 2025.”

But she failed to tag Carlos in the post, which didn’t go unnoticed. One follower said in the comments: “Brilliant series! Shame there seems to be a bad atmosphere between you and Carlos. I guess, in my ideal world, I want you all to be BFFs.” “Now Nancy is not tagging Carlos in her post for Karen. They clearly had a big fallout,” commented another.

Meanwhile, a third said: “Gutted Nancy and Carlos are no longer friends. I hope the final has made them patch things up.” Carlos and Nancy met as children and instantly became close friends. At one point, he said she was his “favourite sister,” while Nancy also called Carlos her “baby brother.”

However, last year the pair unfollowed one another on social media. It was also reported that they would avoid speaking to one another backstage on the BBC One dancing competition. Meanwhile, Nancy was said to be extremely disappointed this year after not getting matched with a celebrity.

It was claimed she was “absolutely incensed” having performed well during the Christmas special, which aired almost a year ago to the day.

The Mirror has approached Nancy’s spokesperson for comment.

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The drama has landed on Netflix and is currently on the streaming giant’s Top 10 chart.

A recent drama featuring one of Downton Abbey‘s most familiar faces has made its way to Netflix, and it’s certainly stirred up mixed feelings.

The suspenseful thriller, Captivated, also known as Too Good To Be True, hails from 2024 and currently holds a middling 5.6/10 rating on IMDb.

The plot centres around Rachel, a single mum and cleaner, who is offered an improved job by a wealthy businessman. However, as she becomes more entangled in his affairs, her suspicions about his intentions grow.

Allen Leech, fondly remembered for his portrayal of Tom Branson in Downton Abbey, stars as Elliott Fielding, while EastEnders legend Kara Tointon takes on the role of Rachel Connor.

Despite its initial airing on Channel 5 last year, the series has gained renewed interest after being added to Netflix UK, where it now ranks third on the streaming behemoth’s Top 10 chart.

While some viewers have clearly enjoyed the show, others have taken to IMDb to caution potential watchers “not to waste their time” on the thriller, reports the Express.

“An utter waste of time,” ane disgruntled viewer lamented, adding: “Just finished this series, of which all 4 episodes can be seen on My5. It gets steadily worse with each episode with a paper thin and entirely predictable plot.”

Another echoed the sentiment, advising: “Don’t waste your time like I did. I kept thinking it would get better. It absolutely does not.”

A third chimed in with their critique, branding it “predictable and unconvincing,” and describing it as “a disappointing crime miniseries”.

Another viewer chimed in: “As usual with this type of drama, this started off OK and went downhill rapidly. It is very predictable and some of it makes no sense at all.”

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This lets members watch live and on-demand TV content without a satellite dish or aerial and includes hit shows like Stranger Things and The Last of Us.

Yet not everyone shared such a dim view, with some fans finding merit in the programme, one describing it as “strangely entertaining”.

“I’ve read some scathing reviews about this show, and whilst I don’t think it’s great, I still think it’s watchable,” reasoned another viewer.

A third defended it as “not as bad as ratings suggest”, adding: “This is a little predictable but is easy to watch and does have a storyline.”

Another supporter urged: “Despite the low rating and some negative reviews it’s surprisingly good. So don’t be fooled.”

One enthusiastic fan encouraged patience: “The first episode was good just persevere with it as the series does get better. It’s little predictable but a good watch ! Too Good To Be true is intense and thrilling to watch!!”

Those curious to form their own opinion can stream Captivated on Netflix and Channel 5 in the UK, or BritBox in the US.

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

The radio host and her producer boyfriend kept their relationship on the down low but are now celebrating their happy news.

Congratulations are in order as Kemi Rodgers, host of I’m A Celebrity: Unpacked, has announced she is engaged after her boyfriend Thomas Hannett proposed during a trip to Australia.

The radio presenter, 30, shared the happy news with fans over the weekend, posting a series of photos to Instagram showing off her engagement ring. In one snap, Kemi beamed as she held up her hand, while another captured the couple enjoying their time abroad.

Kemi, who hosts Unpacked alongside Joel Dommett, was in Australia for the duration of the series, which started on 19 November and ended on 7 December with YouTube star Angryginge taking the crowd.

She captioned the post: “I said yes.” Friends and celebrity colleagues were quick to flood the comments with congratulatory messages. Coronation Street actor Colson Smith wrote: “Congratulations Kemi!”

Capital FM star and This Morning host Sian Welby reacted with excitement, posting: “OMGGGG INCREDIBLE.” Former X Factor contestant Sam Lavery added: “OMG YESSSSS.” While Capital FM presenter Jordan North also shared his delight, commenting: “OMG! Congratulations guys.”

Thomas, who is a senior producer at Capital, and Kemi’s engagement comes just weeks after she revealed that they had actually been dating for over a year. The couple only went public with their relationship in September, when they shared photos from a romantic trip to Paris.

At the time, Kemi explained they had chosen to keep things private before stepping into the spotlight together.

In a short video shared on her Instagram page, Kemi and Thomas could be seen in Paris having a drink at a low-key restaurant as they enjoyed the weather.

They used the famous TikTok audio featuring a person’s voice saying: “Are you happy to be in Paris?”, which Thomas lip-synced before Kemi, 30, said: “Oui.” In the caption, she wrote: “Wine drunk in paris and thought the best way to hard launch my boyfriend on the grid was with the iconic nicki minaj ‘oui’ video loooooool.”

She added: “Full bottle of sancerre in the sun truly is the key to my heart.”

Friends and fans were delighted by the launch and took to the comment section to congratulate the pair. One pal wrote: “The hard launch we’ve all been waiting for,” and another said: “Finally.”

Last year, Kemi joined Sam Thompson and Joel Dommett in hosting a I’m A Celebrity spin-off show called Unpacked, four years after companion show Extra Camp was axed.

Dianne Buswell made Strictly Come Dancing history this year as the first dancer to take to the ballroom and compete whilst pregnant, and the show’s tribute to her pregnancy left fans in tears

Strictly Come Dancing gave a special tribute to Dianne Buswell‘s pregnancy during the live final. The dancer, who competed with fellow Aussie Stefan Dennis this year, was the first to compete on the show whilst pregnant.

During the final, the eliminated couples all took to the dancefloor again for a big group dance. When Dianne and Stefan performed their part of the routine, Strictly first paid tribute to Stefan’s legendary run on the TV show Neighbours by framing the couple as though they were in the title credits for the soap.

As the tribute continued, fans noticed another little tribute to Dianne’s pregnancy. The words that came up on the screen read: “Starring Stefan, Dianne and Bump!”

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This tribute left fans in tears. One took to X to say: “‘And Bump’ is the moment I burst out crying, oh my God I’m such a wreck.” Another said: “Dianne and bump I’m sobbing!!”

Others used the moment to come to the dancer’s defence. “Can we give Dianne her own little trophy because that girl deserves it and more. The amount of hate, criticism and judgment she’s received the whole series just because she showed everyone you can still live out your passions even if you’re pregnant. What a woman.”

Throughout her time on the series this year, Dianne has faced heaps of scrutiny for continuing to dance, with many worried about how the cartwheels and running up and down stairs would affect the baby. The criticism came despite Dianne getting assurances from a doctor that dancing would be safe for the baby.

Dianne herself had to take to social media to hit back at trolls who said they “can’t watch a pregnant girl dance”. She shared a clip to her Instagram where she did a cartwheel and wrote over the top: “For all those people saying they can’t watch a pregnant girl dance! I just can’t help it when I hear the beat.”

She also shared a post to her Stories where she shared how much she hated the comments. Over a screenshot of a comment that said they were “uncomfortable” watching Dianne dance and that they felt the BBC had “made a mistake” by letting an “advanced maternal age mother” dance, Dianne wrote: “I have honestly had enough of comments like these.”

These were not the only times Dianne had to defend herself. After Stefan Dennis exited the show following an injury, one fan said they thought it was a set up to “keep her and baby safe”. A frustrated Dianne shared a statement on Instagram.

“I sound like a broken record but I’m seeing a bit of this floating around again! I know people say ignore it but actually why should I,” she said on her Instagram stories.

“I will speak up… I would love nothing more than to keep dancing this week next week the week after that so so on and so forth. In fact I have more energy this year than I did this time last year.”

She added: “Please respect Stefan who is extremely gutted to not be able to dance and stop presuming this was a set up! because believe me we would if we could!”

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Emily in Paris is back for even more drama, this time around though, one of its key stars was missing.

Emily in Paris season five has dropped but subscribers have been left scratching their heads over the whereabouts of Emily’s friend and rival, Camille deLalisse.

From the get-go of the Netflix rom-com drama, Camille deLalalisse (portrayed by Camille Razat) played a pivotal role, forming part of the love triangle with Emily ( Lily Collins ) and Gabriel (Lucas Bravo).

So when fans noticed that Camille was absent from all 10 new episodes, it sparked speculation about her fate and potential return.

Camille’s journey in Emily in Paris seemed to reach a natural end in season four after she called off her wedding to Gabriel, but her story wasn’t quite finished.

She soon found out she was pregnant, only to later discover it was a false positive. However, Camille kept this secret for a while, hoping to keep Gabriel in her life.

At the same time, Camille was navigating a budding relationship with artist Sofia, but due to lingering feelings for her ex-fiancé, things didn’t pan out.

Eventually, she revealed the truth, and the entire ordeal made Camille realise her desire for a family, leading her to announce plans to adopt a baby on her own.

Season four concluded with Camille moving into a new flat, complete with nursery space, leaving behind her tumultuous past with Emily and Gabriel.

While Camille was noticeably missing from season five, this doesn’t necessarily rule out her return in future series.

Taking to Instagram to discuss her departure from the programme, Razat revealed: “After an incredible journey, I’ve made the decision to step away from Emily in Paris.

“It has been a truly wonderful experience, one filled with growth, creativity, and unforgettable memories.

“I’m deeply grateful to @starmandarren and the entire team at @netflix and @paramountpics for their trust and for giving me the opportunity to bring Camille to life and leaving the door open for her return, as she will always be a part of Emily In Paris world.”

However, Razat has numerous other ventures lined up, revealing she’s wrapped filming on Nero The Assassin for Netflix and The Lost Station Girls for Disney+.

The 31-year-old also disclosed that she’s launched her own production company Tazar Production, which will concentrate on developing music videos and short films, though has already begun work on a feature film.

Wrapping up her Instagram message, Razat noted: “This character has meant a lot to me, and I feel that her storyline has naturally come to an end. It felt like the right moment to explore new horizons.

“I leave the show with nothing but love and admiration for the cast, crew, and fans who have supported us along the way. Thank you for the beautiful ride.”

Emily in Paris is available to stream on Netflix.

The final of 2025 Celebrity MasterChef marked the final show for outgoing judge John Torode

Celebrity MasterChef fans have pleaded with BBC bosses to retain John Torode on the programme as his final episode aired.

Following five weeks of intense culinary competition, the 20th series of the celebrity spin-off reached its conclusion tonight (Friday, December 19), with this year’s champion finally announced.

The finale saw RuPaul’s Drag Race star Ginger Johnson, rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones, and author-broadcaster Dawn O’Porter face their toughest challenge yet, as they were tasked with presenting their most impressive dishes.

Each competitor prepared a three-course menu aimed at demonstrating their culinary journey and winning over judges John and Grace Dent, who stepped in to replace Gregg Wallace on the current series following his departure amid an investigation into his conduct.

Ultimately, Ginger was named Celebrity MasterChef Champion 2025. Speaking about her victory, Ginger said: “I cannot believe this, I’m so shocked. I really thought I was going to come here and have a laugh. I can’t believe this is the end result of the competition. It’s absolutely crazy! I can’t wait to tell my mum and dad. I’ve actually learned a real-life skill!”, reports Wales Online.

John added: “With all the presentation, all the fun, the laughs, her food tastes delicious and she’s an extraordinary cook. For me, that’s why she is our champion.”

This series of the BBC hit competition marks the final appearance of John in his hosting role after he was removed following the outcome of an investigation into his conduct on the programme. At the time, John was accused of using a racist term off-camera during the programme’s production, prompting the BBC to intervene. The chef has consistently denied the allegation.

Grace is set to return in the next series, expected to air next winter, alongside Anna Haugh who will be filling John’s role.

As the current series concluded, viewers were quick to voice their opinions on the presenter reshuffle, with many insisting that the BBC should retain John on the show.

One viewer expressed: “John Torode’s eyes welled up with tears when tasting a great main Finals dish. Who can replace Torode? No one I can think off. Get him back, don’t let him go.”

Another commented: “Brilliant series of #CelebrityMasterchef Grace Dent fits very well but will be sad to no longer see John Torode at the helm.”

A third shared: “I think that’s been one of the best #celebritymasterchef series ever. All the chefs that got to finals week were great cooks and personalities. I didn’t mind who won. But more importantly Grace Dent has been a breath of fresh air. I thought she and John worked well together.”

Another stated: “Can I just say I thought Grace and John were a dream team as hosts and I don’t care if he did use a derogatory word whilst singing the lyrics of a rap song, he shouldn’t have been made to leave #CelebrityMasterchef.”

Meanwhile, one fan added: “Very wrong to get rid of John. Him and #GraceDent make a great pair on #celebritymasterchef . What a fantastic series this has been.”

You can catch up on Celebrity MasterChef on BBC iPlayer

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