ITV

X FACTOR star Chico may have exceeded the drink-drive limit because he took cough medicine before being breathalysed, a court has heard.

The 54-year-old singer – who donned a fur coat and cowboy hat to court – pleaded not guilty to drink-driving in Southgate, London, on December 13.

Chico – whose real name is Yousseph Slimani – appeared in the 2005 series of the TV talent show and later released a number one single, It’s Chico Time.

He is accused of driving a Vauxhall Astra with 40 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, Willesden Magistrates’ Court heard on Tuesday.

The legal limit of alcohol for driving in England is 35 microgrammes per 100 millilitres.

Chico had consumed cough medicine before giving the reading and that could have impacted its accuracy, Sarah King, defending, said.

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Slimani pleaded not guilty and was given bail until his trial on April 9.

Welsh-born Chico found fame after reaching the quarter finals of the X Factor in 2005.

Simon Cowell famously walked out of his initial X Factor audition after fellow judges Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne voted him through.

In 2006, Chico had a number one hit on the British charts titled It’s Chico Time, which became his signature catchphrase.

In 2008, he appeared on the reality TV show CelebAir alongside socialite Tamara Beckwith and singer Lisa Maffia.

In 2010, Slimani recorded a single in support of the English Football Team for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, aptly called “It’s England Time”, a play on “It’s Chico Time”.

He also competed in ITV’s 2012 series of Dancing on Ice.

In 2018, he was rushed to hospital after suffering a stroke.

Recently, he launched his own fitness app called Block Fit which includes workout classes based around his hits.

Chico married singer Daniyela Rakic, sister of Wimbledon Champion Nenad Zimonjić, and the couple have two children.

KYM Marsh teases a return to pop isn’t just Hear’Say as she approaches 25 years in showbiz.

The actress and presenter, 49, posed in a burgundy dress for the February 2026 issue of Prima, which is on sale now, and told the magazine the group could put on a surprise performance.

She said: “I always laugh and say ‘never say never’ about a Hear’Say reunion.

“We might pop up somewhere, just for a one-off performance down the line, to surprise everyone.

“But I think we are all just doing our own thing. We all still chat, which is nice.”

The group, also featuring Myleene Klass, 47, Danny Foster, 46, Suzanne Shaw, 44, and Noel Sullivan, 45, were put together on the talent show Popstars and in March 2001, their single Pure And Simple became, at the time, the fastest-selling debut single in the UK.

BEST GIFT

Kym Marsh’s daughter gives birth as ex-Corrie star becomes a four-time grandma

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Real reason Kym Marsh QUIT Corrie job – & now earns DOUBLE her soap salary

On appearing on the ITV show, she said: “It’s the reason I’m sitting here today, so I’m very fortunate to have had that experience.

“There were so many things that happened at that time that you’d never get away with today. There’s that famous scene where Nigel Lythgoe called me fat.

“I’ve never been anywhere near massively overweight, but even if I was, how dare you? It really upset me. I felt humiliated and ashamed, and insecure about myself.”

Kym announced that her daughter Emilie Cunliffe gave birth to her second child on Christmas Day.

The star took to Instagram to share the amazing news that made her a grandmother for the fourth time.

Penned under a snap of Emilie’s son Teddy, 6, and Emilie’s husband’s daughter Polly, 9, Kym said: “Well what a wonderful Christmas gift this is!!

“Welcome to the world Bobby Saint Mykola Hoszowskyj!!! He’s so beautiful!”

Kym then took a moment to gush about her daughter’s strength, and wish fans and followers alike the best for the holidays.

“So so proud of my girl @listentoemilie she is a warrior!!”

Emmerdale star Danny Miller marked Christmas with a special photo showing three generations of his family

Emmerdale legend Danny Miller has delighted fans after sharing a photo alongside his lookalike father, Vince.

Danny, 34, first graced the ITV soap as Aaron Dingle in 2008, but after a five-year stint, he left the soap to pursue other opportunities, including a regular role in the crime drama Scott and Bailey.

However, in 2014, he made the decision to return to Emmerdale, only to take another break seven years later. During this time, he joined the line-up on I’m A Celebrity and was crowned the winner.

In 2023, it was confirmed that Danny would reprise his role as Aaron once again. Away from the dramatic scenes of the Yorkshire Dales, actor Danny Miller enjoys a more tranquil family life.

In the celebrity circuit, Danny isn’t the only one grabbing headlines, as he comes from a lineage of stardom with his dad, Vince Miller, hailed as an entertainment titan.

Warmly referred to as the ‘king of compere’, Vince, who is also a comedian and singer, has carved his niche as the face of the VIP scene at Manchester United, interestingly enough, through Danny’s unwavering support for arch-rivals Liverpool FC.

At 91, Vince can look back on a dazzling showbiz stint that lasted 65 years, during which he mingled with luminaries like Johnny Mathis and Shirley Bassey and even gave a heartfelt eulogy at comedian Bernard Manning’s funeral.

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

A defining juncture came when Vince decided to hang up his microphone. Speaking to the Manchester Evening News at 82, Vince declared: “I have no regrets about it. The time is now to retire while you’re on top. You don’t want people saying ‘not him again’.”

Taking to Instagram, dad-of-three Danny shared a photo alongside his dad Vince as they celebrated Christmas as a family.

In one photo, Danny can be seen with his arm around Vince as they sit in front of a Christmas tree. In another sweet snap, Danny poses alongside two of his children and his dad, all striking a smile for the camera.

Danny sweetly captioned the post: “Christmas complete. Three generations of The Miller boys.”

Fans and friends of the soap star have flooded the comments section with their well-wishes, with Emmerdale’s Billy Fletcher star Jay Kontzle writing: “Beautiful mate, merry Christmas.”

A second person wrote: “Aww, precious time, lovely to see your dad smiling and happy”, while a third chimed in: “Heart melting.”

“This is so precious, you look so much like your dad Danny”, pointed out one fan as another echoed: “Danny you have the same smile as your Dad. You can see the pride in his face, and you’re still his little boy.”

Emmerdale airs weekdays on ITV and ITVX

Coronation Street star Jack P Shepherd has been flooded with support from fans and friends

Coronation Street star Jack P Shepherd has received an outpouring of support from fans following a joint marriage update with his wife.

The 37-year-old actor, who first appeared on our screens in the ITV soap at the tender age of 12, is best known for his role as David Platt, the mischievous son of Martin Platt, portrayed by Sean Wilson, and Gail, played by Helen Worth.

Over the years, David’s character has been central to numerous dramatic storylines, including pushing his mum down the stairs in a near-fatal incident, seeking revenge on villain Richard Hillman, and a heart-wrenching suicide plot.

However, off-screen, Jack’s life is a far cry from his turbulent character, as he enjoys marital bliss with his wife, Hanni Treweek.

The couple tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in Manchester earlier this year, surrounded by their nearest and dearest. The wedding came a year after Jack romantically popped the question to Hanni during a dreamy safari holiday, reports the Daily Star.

Joining the happy couple at their celebration were several of Jack’s Coronation Street co-stars, including Lucy Fallon, Alan Halsall, Tina O’Brien, and, notably, his former on-screen mum Helen Worth. Celebrity Big Brother co-star Chris Hughes was also among the showbiz friends in attendance.

This Christmas marked the first festive season that Jack and Hanni have enjoyed as husband and wife, and they took to social media to share snippets of their celebrations.

In one photograph, Jack and Hanni are captured wearing stunning outfits as they stand before a Christmas tree. Another image shows Hanni displaying her glittering wedding bands.

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

Hanni wrote alongside the post: “Our first Christmas as Mr and Mrs Shepherd. We hope you all had a magical one.”

Admirers and pals of the newlyweds flooded the comments section with congratulations, with one person commenting, “Beautiful photos, beautiful couple.”

Another declared: “Power couple (flame emoji)”, whilst a third added: “Looks amazing.”

“Happy Xmas Mr and Mrs Shepherd”, one follower gushed, while someone else said: “You both look lush.”

Jack has marked 25 years portraying David Platt on Coronation Street. Presently, on the ITV drama, David and his wife, Shona (Julia Goulding), are awaiting their first child together, though they’ve recently faced a devastating choice.

During a standard appointment, Shona and David learned their unborn daughter faces complications, as a scan showed a mass/tumour on the baby’s neck, necessitating risky surgery or termination.

Shona remains resolute about having her baby, and the pair are proceeding with the pregnancy. Nevertheless, further dramatic tension awaits the couple as Corrie links up with Emmerdale.

In a preview for the special episode, broadcasting on January 5, Shona and expectant Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins) from the Dales are shown in distress following a car crash. Will Shona and David emerge unscathed?

Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday on ITV and ITVX

Following claims that he “corpses deliberately” on The Chase, a long-time friend has revealed what Bradley Walsh is really like when the cameras stop rolling

A friend and colleague of Bradley Walsh has revealed what it’s been like working alongside The Chase presenter for over four decades. The 64-year-old host has been at the helm of the ITV quiz programme since its launch in 2009.

Never one to take things too seriously, Bradley regularly has a laugh with the chasers and contestants and has been known to be left in hysterics over amusing questions and responses.

One of his most unforgettable moments occurred when he couldn’t contain his laughter over a query about German skier Fanny Chmelar.

After some viewers accused him of faking his reactions, Bradley set the record straight, insisting he doesn’t know what’s coming next.

“I don’t pre-read them, I do it as it is, I literally play the game,” he explained. “If I get a reaction, then it’s much better.”

During an appearance on Laura Hamilton’s Mile Fly Club podcast, he added: “I’ll read what’s on the autocue and half the time, I don’t realise what I’ve said,” reports the Express.

Discussing the infamous Fanny Chmelar incident, Bradley went on to say: “And people, still today, think I’m corpsing deliberately but I’m not, that’s actually me laughing, I had no idea that was [coming] up.”

Backing his long-time friend, Joe Pasquale said The Chase host is the same person on and off screen.

“Bradley is what you see, he does what he says on the tin, what you see is what you get with Brad,” the comedian revealed.

“We’ve been mates for 40 years, myself, Brian [Conley] and Shane [Richie], we all started off together, which is what’s great about The Prat Pack tour.”

Beyond their joint touring, Joe also recently caught Bradley off guard when he turned up as the fresh quizmaster on Beat The Chasers.

Joe joined the panel for a special one-off episode, adopting the moniker Maverick.

Prior to unveiling his true self, Joe was given strict instructions to keep his identity under wraps from the Chasers, audiences, and particularly Bradley.

Speaking about the measures he took to remain disguised, he revealed: “I’d been on the road with Bradley all year, we’ve known each other for 40 years but literally just before filming we had been on the road together. He knows me inside out, he knows my body movements.

“I had to be really calm because I talk really fast and I’m very physical, the producer said, ‘Don’t move, just keep really still and talk very slowly so he doesn’t suss it’s you.’ So it was quite hard for me.”

Thankfully, the comedian succeeded in concealing his identity from Bradley, leaving the presenter “genuinely surprised” by his reveal.

When questioned whether the host was miffed by his deception, he quipped: “He’s never furious with me, he’s like my big brother.”

Joe is appearing in Swansea Grand’s Aladdin until 4 January 2026. The Chase: Celebrity Christmas Special broadcasts tonight at 5.35pm on ITV.

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

Red Eye season 2 premieres on 1st January 2026, with Jing Lusi and Lesley Sharp returning alongside new lead Martin Compston for the gripping thriller

ITV is starting the year with a bang, bringing back its popular original thriller Red Eye. Creator Peter A Dowling and director Kieron Moore are teaming up again for a fresh story that once more puts DC Hana Li (Jing Lusi) and MI5 director-general Madeline Delaney (Lesley Sharp) in serious jeopardy.

The first series centred on the spine-chilling events on an extradition flight to China, where an alleged murderer was embroiled in a complicated international conspiracy.

This latest chapter builds on those global political tensions, splitting time between a besieged US Embassy in London and a rigged flight back to the English capital.

If you’re excited to tune into Red Eye season 2 on ITV1 and ITVX, read on for everything you need to know about the show’s return.

Red Eye season 2 release date

Red Eye season 2 is set to premiere on ITV1 at 9pm on Thursday, 1st January 2026 (New Year’s Day). All six episodes will also be available on ITVX from that date, allowing fans to binge-watch ahead.

Red Eye season 2 cast: New and returning

Red Eye season 2 welcomes back Jing Lusi as DC Hana Li, who spent the first series untangling a complex conspiracy on a dangerous flight to China.

Lesley Sharp is back in action as Madeline Delaney, now the director general of MI5, who finds herself in a precarious situation on an overseas flight in season 2, mirroring Hana’s ordeal from the first series.

Other familiar faces include Jemma Moore (Lockwood & Co.) reprising her role as Hana’s sister Jess, a fearless journalist, and Robert Gilbert (Bergerac) returning as her boss, Superintendent Simon O’Brian. Notably missing is Richard Armitage as Dr Matthew Nolan, with Line of Duty’s Martin Compston stepping in to fill his shoes as Lusi’s male co-lead, playing US Embassy security chief Clay Brody.

In summary, here’s an overview of the Red Eye season 2 cast:

• Jing Lusi as Detective Hana Li
• Lesley Sharp as Madeline Delaney
• Martin Compston as Clay Brody
• Jemma Moore as Jess Li
• Robert Gilbert as Supt. Simon O’Brien
• Cash Holland as Ruth Banks
• Jonathan Aris as John Tennant
• Steph Lacey as Megan Campbell
• Nicholas Rowe as DSEC Alex Peterson
• Trevor White as US Ambassador Ronald Tillman
• Isaura Barbe-Brown as DCM Cece Redding
• Danusia Samal as Captain Sarah Wright
• Guy Williams as Air Marshal John Johnson

Red Eye season 2 plot: What is it about?

Red Eye season 2 once again divides its attention between another endangered flight and events unfolding on the ground, but this time around, Hana Li is grounded while Madeline Delaney is trapped thousands of feet in the air.

The synopsis reads: “Inside the US Embassy, the celebrations for a newly appointed US Ambassador to London are shattered when a call, threatening to blow a British plane out of the sky if anyone leaves, triggers an immediate embassy lockdown, trapping guests and staff inside.

“And that’s when the murders begin, landing Hana Li, as a British cop, in a political and jurisdictional nightmare. Compelled to join forces with the Head of Embassy Security, Clay Brody, played by Martin Compston, a former colleague who once screwed her over, Hana has to see her way past her distrust of him and focus on the investigation.

“Because this time it’s personal: The plane that will be blown up is a government jet, and Director General Madeline Delaney is onboard.”

Red Eye season 1 is available to stream on ITVX. Season 2 premieres on New Year’s Day 2026.

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

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**

Jamie Redknapp shared how dating pop star Louise Redknapp contributed to backlash as he reflected on the early days of his football career

Jamie Redknapp said dating Louise Redknapp contributed to him “getting a lot of stick” at the height of his football career. In 1991, the sportsman signed for Liverpool FC and made his debut in a UEFA Cup match that year aged just 18.

During his 11 years at the club, Jamie, 52, and several of his teammates were dubbed The Spice Boys because of their youth and high-profile lifestyles.

As part of this period, Liverpool won the Football League Cup (also known as the Coca-Cola Cup) in 1995 and it was around this time that Jamie met Louise, who was a member of Eternal.

Reflecting on his heyday, the father-of-two said he was determined to prove he had “the mental strength” to succeed after many doubted his abilities.

Jamie gained further attention at the time when press discovered he was dating singer Louise.

Speaking on the Making A Scene podcast, he reflected: “We won the Coca-Cola final which was the lead cup at the time. We had a very young team hence why we were called The Spice Boys.”

Avoiding naming his now ex-wife, he went on to explain to hosts David Walliams and Matt Lucas: “We got a lot of stick because I was dating a popstar, David James was modelling for Armani, John Barnes was just John Barnes, Jason McAteer [was there].”

Jamie and Louise, who share two sons, Charley, 21, and Beau, 17, were married for 20 years.

The former couple split in 2017, with the singer reportedly citing “unreasonable behaviour” in divorce proceedings at the time.

Fast forward several years and the pair have since moved on with new relationships.

Jamie was the first to do so, finding love with Swedish model Frida Andersson. The couple later married in 2021 while she was pregnant with their son Raphael, who is now four.

Before meeting Jamie, she was married to American hedge fund manager Jonathan Lourie, with whom she has four children.

Speaking recently on The Romesh Ranganathan Show, the football pundit made a rare admission about moving on from Louise and the impact it had on their children.

When it came to telling his eldest son that Frida was pregnant, he recalled: “It didn’t go down that well with Charley, I’ve got to be honest.

“I went to pick him up at school and tell him Frida was pregnant [and] it went down like a lead balloon, if I’m honest.”

He added: “I got it, I totally understood it because his world had been turned upside down — you’re married, everything feels straightforward, and then you meet someone else and you get married again.”

As for Louise, she began dating businessman Drew Michael in 2023. The mother-of-two regularly shares updates about their relationship on social media, including attending Glastonbury Festival together last year.

Jamie appears on Ant and Dec’s Limitless Win tonight at 8pm on ITV. For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new Everything Gossip website.

Coronation Street’s Debbie Webster actress Sue Devaney has teased all about the big soap wedding, Carl Webster’s comeuppance and the explosive Corriedale episode

As Coronation Street‘s Debbie Webster continues to adapt to living with young onset vascular dementia, one thing she’s determined to see go ahead is her extravagant wedding to Ronnie Bailey.

But actress Sue Devaney, who has played the fan favourite since 1984, warns there’s plenty of tension as the big day arrives thanks to Debbie’s warring siblings Kevin [Michael Le Vell] and Carl [played by Jonathan Howard].

Sue, 58, says Debbie won’t let their feud spoil the wedding of her dreams though. The hotel owner hasn’t had much luck with men in Weatherfield, dumped by tearaway Dazz in the 80s, before her scheming ex Ray Crosby brought trouble to her door in 2020, a year on from her return to the Cobbles.

But Debbie has finally found the one in Ronnie amid the devastation of her diagnosis. “She’s never found true love until now,” admits Sue. “I think because Ronnie said to her, ‘I’m not going anywhere, you might be poorly, you might have dementia, but I’m sticking by your side,’ she just sees that as true love.”

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Sue originally joined the soap as a teenager in 1984 and bowed out a year later, before becoming a key character after her return in 2019. She’s proven a hit with fans ever since, and so her character’s sad health news came as a blow. Sue and show bosses have promised there’s plenty more to see from Debbie before her eventual heartbreaking exit.

As the soap continues to highlight the condition and what it’s like to live with dementia, Debbie’s wedding sees a performance from the dementia choir in an emotional touch. “I was over the moon because it was so beautiful,” shares Sue. “When they started singing, I had a little tear. It was fabulous. They sounded amazing.”

Sue even got to have her say when it came to Debbie’s amazing wedding look, sharing her inspiration behind the dress. She admits: “I said I just want to look like a Joan Collins from Rochdale. They delivered brilliantly. I wanted that shape, you know, because I like the feathers and that kind of 50s shape with big shoes and a big feather headdress.”

The day is not without its drama, as attention falls on Carl who has been targeting Debbie, even using her diagnosis against her as he plots to flee with her money. With plenty of secrets set to come out, it’s on Kevin and his ex Abi [Sally Carman-Duttine] to expose the truth. “In Debbie’s eyes, Carl can’t do anything wrong, because she loves her brother,” Sue confesses. “I think there’s going to be a lot of tension around the wedding where Abi is watching out for Carl because she doesn’t trust him.

“I think Debbie is letting him get away with little bits. She’s not that far down the line that she doesn’t see things. Love is blind, isn’t it?” Sue reveals the events of the wedding will lead into dramatic scenes as Coronation Street collides with Emmerdale in a special crossover episode, dubbed Corriedale.

“She doesn’t want Carl to leave,” Sue explains. “She doesn’t want Carl to leave the wedding. Also he’s drunk, so she doesn’t want him to drive off. She jumps in the car thinking, ‘Well, you can’t go anywhere if I’m in the car.’ And he thinks, ‘Well, I’m going somewhere,’ and carries on driving far too fast.”

It seems Debbie and Carl could be caught up in the big crash stunt too in something unexpected, possibly, to fans. As Sue shares all about filming for the episode, she appears to confirm Debbie and Carl will be in Carl’s car, after fans had speculated it could be her wedding party bus caught up in the drama. She also addressed some stunt work.

She says: “There was one scene where Carl had to drive off really fast and they had a dummy for me, you know, with the hair and feathers in the hair and everything. And I said to our director, ‘Can I not speed off with the stunt guy?’ and he said, ‘Yeah, go on then.’ He let me do it! It felt like doing a little movie or something.”

It’s safe to say that there will be big consequences in the fallout to Christmas and the start of 2026 too. “It’s not going to be plain sailing,” warns Sue. “There’s going to be some massive reveals, things that we didn’t know about Debbie, and quite a bit of reflection.”

Sue’s also hoping for more scenes with Debbie’s female pals, including Christina Boyd and Glenda Suttleworth, expressing the importance of women supporting women. Sue says: “I think that those friendships and those bonds that you have with another woman is something that has to be highlighted, because you don’t see it that often in soap. I think they should do an episode just with women.”

While it’s been a busy time for the actress, she’s planned a relaxing time off over the Christmas period with her husband Jim O’Farrell, whom she married in a private ceremony last year. “I’m going to be away for three weeks,” Sue teases. “Me and my husband are going to relax in the sunshine. Stepping off that plane, hiring a car, going island hopping. And not a script in sight. I’ll tell you what else is not in sight: phone is off.”

Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITV X. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

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‘.

RYAN Thomas has admitted he almost dumped fiancé Lucy Mecklenburgh after “self sabotaging” during the early stages of their relationship.

The pair are engaged and share two children now but the former Coronation Street star has revealed it all nearly didn’t happen.

The two first met on The Island with Bear Grylls before coming back to the UK and going on proper dates.

On the latest episode of his podcast with his brothers Adam and Scott, The Thomas Bros, the trio were joined by Lucy and Adam’s wife Caroline.

Talk soon turned to Ryan and Lucy’s relationship as they recalled what happened right at the beginning of their blossoming romance.

Love Island star Scott began: “Ryan asked you to be his girlfriend…”

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Lucy added: “On our first date yeah,” as Ryan jumped in: “But wait wait we’d been on an island for a month.”

Scott interjected: “No no wait but how did it… this is cringing me out.”

Lucy continued: “Well we’ve known each other for like two months, we’d been on the island for a month together.”

“Did you not say ‘Are we official?’, Scott asked as Ryan said: “I would never say that I’m old school.”

Former TOWIE star Lucy then dropped: “It gets worse. He later on told me he was meeting me, because I was working in Manchester, meeting me to say “No, no I’m not interested.’

Ryan interrupted to say: ‘I was just a bit like… ugh I dunno I just found it a bit unattractive that someone actually liked me and once I got them I was like “No it’s not for me.”‘

“Then when I went to meet her…”, he added, as Lucy said: “It’s mad isn’t it.”

Clarifying what he was intending to do, Scott exclaimed: “So you were going to break it off and then you saw her.”

Ryan divulged: “And she looked incredible. And she was like super cool and we had this kiss in the car, yeah in Adam’s car.

“I don’t know why you had your shoes off… but your foot were on the dashboard. And I went ‘Yeah I’m in.’”

The couple got engaged back in June 2019 while on holiday in Italy together.

They welcomed son Roman into the world in March 2020 before having daughter Lilah Rae two years later.

Ryan is also dad to singer and Waterloo Road star, Scarlett Thomas, who he shares with ex Tina O’Brien.

The Celebrity Big Brother star previously opened up about Lucy walking out on him during a big date night.

Speaking on the podcast, he expressed: “We got to the hotel, lovely room, went for dinner in this beautiful new restaurant overlooking the whole of Manchester.

‘It just slowly, I just started to feel it bubbling.

“And every time a conversation come up, it was a debate, right, rather than conversation it was like, you just felt the energy was all off.

“I thought she’s gone to the toilet, 10 minutes has passed, 15 minutes has passed, half an hour passed!

“And I was still sat there. So I text her and said ‘long toilet break’.

“I rang her, and it went boom down, I rang her again, and it went down, and then I was like okay, so she’s not coming back.”

The Princess of Wales personally requested compoer Erland Cooper to watch her and Princess Charlotte perform his piece, Holm Sound, at Windsor Castle for tonight’s Together At Christmas on ITV

The composer behind the piece of music played by the Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte has spoken of his pride of witnessing their “incredible bond”. Kate was joined by her 10-year-old daughter for a special performance to launch her Together at Christmas carol concert broadcast on ITV1 this evening.

She personally requested Erland Cooper to accompany them at Windsor Castle earlier this month as they performed his piece Holm Sound. The award winning composer and producer, from Orkney in Scotland, cited as “one of the most unique, consistently engaging composers of his generation”, is renowned for taking inspiration for his melodic work from nature and connection.

READ MORE: Kate Middleton teases exciting mystery guest in exciting carol concert surpriseREAD MORE: Kate Middleton gets surprise nod from King Charles in his 2025 Christmas speech

Speaking of his shared passion for the natural world with the princess, who has credited immersing herself in nature as a marker in her recovery from cancer treatment last year, Erland said: “It was such a treat, such a lovely, warm and inviting day to be present with Their Royal Highnesses. It completely took me by surprise. I’m used to rambling around the ruins and brochs of the Orkney Islands, but to go to Windsor Castle itself was a slightly different architectural wonder.”

Erland, 43, wrote his classical piece in 2020 at the height of the coronavirus pandemic, taking inspiration from the wild environment of the Orkney islands. The Princess of Wales, who has played the piano since the age of 10, first wrote to Erland to express her love of his music and thank him for his dedication to promoting the beauty of the natural world through his craft.

Through their exchange of messages, the future queen revealed how she had enjoyed teaching Charlotte his compositions at home, creating a special bond between them. As she planned to create a special moment as part of her fifth annual Together at Christmas carol concert, celebrating hundreds of community heroes at Westminster Abbey, the princess requested to play one of her favourite pieces with her daughter as part of the television on ITV1 on Christmas Eve.

“I’m always in the head and hearts and back gardens of others. I often think, in this case, this little piece of music sort of landed on her shoulder like a bird,” Erland said. “And when you write a piece of music and you share it with the world, you’re sort of letting that out, and you’re letting it go, and you have no idea how far and wide it might fly. So it’s always a great surprise when people write to me or call me, and this was, you know, one of those great surprises. I didn’t expect it at all.”

Describing the moment as “a wonderful bit of serendipity” after originally composing the piece for his mother, Charlotte, Erland said: “We had a very warm, creative conversation earlier in the year, which was lovely, and then it culminated with an invitation to Windsor Castle. The princess asked ‘Would it be okay if we perform this piece of music that we so enjoy together?’

“It was such a lovely request so I said absolutely no problem at all. I was invited to witness this incredible bond between mother and daughter performing together and for that I am so grateful. And there’s a wonderful bit of serendipity as the piece was composed and dedicated to my mum, also called Charlotte, they didn’t know about, that it’s about motherhood, and how family plays such an important role and such a key part to all of this.

“The Princess and I both have a sort of shared love of music that celebrates the natural world and its rejuvenation and the wonder that you know that comes from it. There’s so much joy and warmth and creativity and ideas surrounding those themes.”

Erland, whose work combines field recordings with traditional orchestration and electronic elements, is renowned for burying the only copy of his first classical album as part of the “return to the natural earth” process. In 2021, after deleting all digital copies of his composition, he planted the master tape in peaty soil in Orkney, along with a “cheap violin”, the original score in a biscuit tin and a note to return to sender if it was ever found.

Erland posted clues on his website, but said if no-one found it he would dig it up himself and release the music in 2024, no matter how much the recording had changed. The score was discovered by two fans who found the soggy spool of magnetic tape buried in Stromness and returned it to him.

The record, titled Carve the Runes Then Be Content With Silence, later became a number one classical album, in collaboration with nature, topping the UK official charts in 2024.

Erland added: “I merely tap into the energy of the natural world, and I’m very grateful for it. It is a constant source of inspiration. It’s the life blood of my work. The idea behind my first piece was to compose, decompose, and then recompose. The finished piece would be a collaboration with Mother Nature. We all have this incredible connection to the natural world and I find it so warming that the Princess of Wales has found solace and such comfort in nature.”

On witnessing Kate and Charlotte sharing the stage together for their joint performance, he said: “It was just lovely. I think I was there for a little bit of encouragement. I mean, imagine anybody performing a piece of music in front of a film crew, and then the person who wrote it. Princess Charlotte played beautifully, she really has a wonderful way of playing the lighter notes just beautifully. So we were able to celebrate in that together.

“It’s certainly one of my favorite winter solstice moments. To walk into the Castle, to be greeted by a Steinway grand piano, and then to have a really poignant recital and performance. It was a very special, sort of quiet moment. There’s a power in reaching out to people, and that’s what they did here.”

Emmerdale’s Kerry Wyatt actress Laura Norton has revealed all about her character’s shock wedding to village legend Eric Pollard, amid a separate wedding being planned on the ITV soap

Emmerdale‘s Laura Norton as revealed all about the shock wedding twist on Wednesday.

In an unexpected turn of events, fans saw her character Kerry Wyatt tie the knot with none other than Eric Pollard. Just as Jacob Gallagher and Sarah Sudden prepared for their own secret wedding, they rumbled the truth.

In a major plot twist is was announced the pair had wed, leaving Jacob horrified. Speaking about the scenes, actress Laura has revealed all behind the decision for Eric and Kerry to marry.

With the wedding coming about as a means of keeping Jacob’s inheritance safe, amid Eric’s concerns about his finances, Laura addressed whether there was more to it. She shared: “Kerry however dysfunctional and chaotic she is, is a girl with a heart who makes true friendships. She is loyal and does genuinely care and about and love people and when she came into the village, Eric and Val had adopted Amy.

READ MORE: Soap spoilers for next week: Multiple exits ‘sealed’, wedding drama and flashforwardREAD MORE: EastEnders legend Pam St Clement admits struggle with emotional return

“And they did a really fantastic job and she was well cared for and Amy was very happy. They thought Kerry was such a mess and a car crash but they were kind and they took her in as well because they loved Amy. But now Amy’s gone. I feel like this is some sort of misplaced guilt a little bit. I think she genuinely does care about Eric.

“They’re both loveable rogues, they’ve both got a really similar default, but I feel like it’s a full circle moment where it is like you looked after my daughter and I know that my daughter would want me to do this for you.”

Laura hasn’t ruled out love for Kerry and recent flame Jai Sharma though, while she hinted that for now it wouldn’t go anywhere. Laura said: “Kerry and Eric are a mad combination but it works and they’re doing it for all the right reasons.

“But her and Jai have hated each other for years. She worked under him at the factory, and they were always bickering and they come from two completely different worlds and now she works up at the depot and it is the same sort of dynamic.

“But there was this moment when they both got to look at each other in a different way, it was a massive surprise to both of them and for the fans, I had quite a lot of messages on social media with people just saying, I don’t know why, but that really works. She brings out a nice side of Jai. A softer side.

“I think that’s why he’s attracted to her as he’s been very doom and gloom and everything she does is a joke and then when she realises he had stuff going on with his son, everything she did was like jokes, but she genuinely, tried to help and suggested things to him and I think it changed his attitude towards her.. she’s not so bad, but she’s also like really funny. I think as to what will happen in the future, watch this space as yeah.

“Who knows? But it did surprisingly work well.” Laura enjoyed the twist too. She shared: “That period of filming was the most fun I had filming in ages, because obviously last year we did all of the limo stuff and I had to say goodbye to a few of the girls in the show that I loved, it was really a bitter sweet.

“Obviously, it was an amazing piece of television, but this recent stuff was just great back to old school Kerry and now she is partnered with somebody who is so.. it’s like a duo that you shouldn’t put together, but for some reason it just works. They are in a situation that is so ridiculous, it’s all so incredibly funny. So, yeah, I’ve loved it for several different reasons.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

Salfordian comedian Jason Manford was forced to defend himself when Royal Variety Performance viewers went in on him after he hosted the annual televised charity event

Jason Manford got defensive on social media when Royal Variety Performance viewers slated him on social media after it was aired on Sunday. Salford native Jason, 44, hosted the annual charity event, which saw the Prince and Princess of Wales enjoy the show.

But Jason Manford appeared to divide opinion with his jokes about class, opening the show with a quip about his kids being middle class, after he was brought up as a working class lad. Kicking off proceedings on the ITV show, Jason stated: “I’ve created monsters,” before explaining his kids refused warm ‘smashed avocado’, joking that it was actually mushy peas from the chippy.

Although his comedy seemed to go down well with the royals, even getting a chuckle from the Prince of Wales, viewers at home were more critical of the comedian. One viewer commented on social media: “Can’t believe Jason Manford is rehashing all this stuff about his brother and class. Been doing it for years #royalvariety.” Another added: “Nice enough bloke but he ain’t that funny. #RoyalVarietyPerformance.”

A third viewer wrote: “You complete ****hole! 99% of Uk can’t stand u!!” But Jason wasn’t accepting any negativity, replying to the unhinged comment: “Merry Christmas mate.” Not letting go, the viewer added: “You jumped up halibut! You’re a pauper in most eyes!” Jason responded: “And a Happy New Year xx”

Another viewer – who also had no profile picture – commented: “It would be better if he did not shout so much.” On one, Jason added: “It’s a a big room sweetie.”

Someone else commented that they thought Jason is being eyed up for the Strictly job, to which Jason joked: “Funnily no one has called, unless it’s a surprise to me too.” Oblivious, another viewer replied: “No one will either.” Jason got shirty, hitting back: “That was the joke f*** face.”

When another fan commented that Jason was “smashing it”, a disgruntled viewer replied: “We must be watching different shows,” to which Jason said: “Maybe you’re just not in the mood.”

But for every critic, there was praise for Jason’s hosting skills. One viewer posted: “You’re brilliant on Royal Variety! Definitely need to host again next year!” Others realised they’d caught feelings, with one typing: “How good does @JasonManford look!!! I mean DAMMN the crush I have on him wasn’t on the bingo card for 2025 #RoyalVarietyPerformance”

The event, which was recorded in November at the Royal Albert Hall, but aired on Sunday, raises funds for the Royal Variety Charity. The organisation supports entertainers and their families facing hardship and poverty.

For this year’s show, Westlife performed World Of Our Own ahead of their huge tour in their matching black suits and bowties. It was followed by a special performance from the Live Aid musical ‘Just For One Day’ followed, with Sir Bob Geldof and Midge Ure making an appearance to tell the story.

Stephen Fry appeared as Lady Bracknell from The Importance of Being Earnest, while Jessie J performed an emotional version of her track I’ll Never Know Why. Elsewhere, Britain’s Got Talent winner Harry Moulding performed an trick with the help of members of the audience, while Strictly’s Johannes Radebe led a performance from musical Kinky Boots.

Impressionists followed, with impressions of political leaders including Sir Keir Starmer, Donald Trump and Boris Johnson, while Jason went on to take part in a panto section. The show concluded with a Les Misérables performance, which saw 400 performers, including Michael Ball, Matt Lucas, Katy Secombe, Bradley Jaden and Killian Donnelly, mark the show’s 40th anniversary.

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READ MORE: World’s most popular ‘so feminine and elegant’ fragrance hits rare sale weeks before Christmas

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.

Royal Variety Performance viewers were left stunned to see Westlife on stage at the ITV special, claiming the Irish boyband hadn’t aged a day

Royal Variety Performance viewers were left gobsmacked to see Westlife take the stage, insisting they hadn’t aged a day.

The ITV spectacular made its return this evening, with presenter Jason Manford welcoming an array of acts including Jessie J, Paddington The Musical and Sir Stephen Fry.

During the early stages of the programme, Irish boyband Westlife delivered a medley of their biggest anthems, sending fans into raptures.

One gushed: “Westlife haven’t aged in 25 years,” whilst another declared: “The gorgeous Westlife fellas!”

A third person raved: “Westlife still the finest boy group,” while someone else exclaimed: “3 ‘Benjamin Buttons’ right there! Looking incredible boys! ! !”, reports Wales Online.

Another spectator remarked: “Well those Westlife lads are looking and sounding as good as they always did.”

Yet another agreed: “These boys from Westlife literally look the same.”

The performance saw Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan take to the stage. The Irish band formed in 1998, consisting of the three bandmates as well as Mark Feehily.

Brian McFadden was also a member of the band before he left to pursue a solo career in 2004. Westlife disbanded in 2012, but later reunited in 2018.

Mark has not joined the band in recent performances, with the group launching an upcoming world tour and releasing four songs this year.

He recently shared the health setbacks he’s faced, including a pneumonia diagnosis in 2022.

In June, Mark’s absence from Westlife’s shows was announced as part of their anniversary plans. The band said in a statement: “Sadly, Mark will be unable to join the celebrations. We hope he can join us back on stage when he is ready and able. He sends his love and positivity to you all as always.

“The four of us can’t quite believe its been 25 years. We could only have dreamt of the continued love and loyalty you have consistently shown us around the world.

“We are so lucky to have all of you with us and we can’t wait to celebrate together! Happy 25th To Us All! Love, Kian, Mark, Nicky and Shane x.”

Last year, Mark had announced a temporary departure from the band, ahead of their first American tour.

He said: “Hello and much love to you all! It’s Mark here.. Most of you are aware that I have had some health challenges over the past while.

“It actually all started 3.5 years ago in August 2020 when I had surgery. Within a few days of this surgery I was in severe pain and was rushed into A&E.

“I eventually ended that awful day in ICU (Intensive Care Unit) where I was informed that due to a complication with the surgery, I had developed severe ‘Sepsis‘, a life-threatening infection that would require immediate emergency surgery to rectify the problem and basically save my life.”

He went on: “It was physically and mentally a very difficult time, not to mention traumatic having to spend so long in ICU.

“In late 2021, I became very ill in Newcastle before a concert and ended up back in A&E, this time being told I had pneumonia. I was told I had to go straight home to recover and regrettably miss the rest of the concerts that December.”

He continued by explaining other surgeries he required, saying he “tried my best to soldier on” for fans, but “the physical demands of the concerts and extensive travel were proving too much for me”.

After developing a “incisional hernia” and requiring his fourth major surgery, Mark confirmed his temporary hiatus from the band, saying: “It is with the upmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring until a time ote: that I have had the chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual.

“Believe me, I wish things could be different! I would like to thank you so very much for your support and understanding of me and my health over the past few years.”

The Royal Variety Performance is airing on ITV1.

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

Emmerdale fans have a lot to look forward to on the ITV soap this Christmas – and this is when they can tune in as all the drama unfolds over the festive period

Emmerdale fans are looking forward to tuning in on Christmas Day – and it’s looking like quite a dramatic time during the festive time on the farm. Viewers of the long-running ITV soap, which first aired in 1972, would expect nothing less from the programme but it’s already been quite the year for the residents of the Yorkshire-based village.

This Christmas, there’s concern for Robron as a threat looms for newly reunited Aaron Dingle and Robert Sugden. When news of a possible return is shared not everyone is immediately happy about it, sparking a new feud. Ross Barton is blindsided when he finds out Aaron and Robert are planning to bring Robert’s son Seb back into their lives. Ross was Seb’s stepfather and helped raise him, until Seb’s mother Rebecca White sadly passed away.

What’s more, someone will be showing lurking in the shadows with intent and their reign of terror is only just getting started. When the trees outside his flat are set alight, Aaron once again blames Ross, only for Robert to uncover who the real culprit is. Will he be able to stop them? As Christmas Day arrives Aaron is puzzled when Robert heads off on a mystery errand. Soon there’s serious concern when he doesn’t return – so what has happened to Robert?

READ MORE: Emmerdale Christmas spoilers: Return sealed, escape plan and Robert ‘missing’READ MORE: Emmerdale fans ‘rumble’ who is set to expose Celia after shock confrontation

What time is Emmerdale on Christmas Day? What happens?

But when exactly will fans be able to catch all the Yuletide drama? Traditionally, the soap airs weeknights at 7:30pm in a half-hour slot, often just before Coronation Street. Eager fans can also watch the latest instalment from 7am on the day of broadcast by logging onto ITVX.

However, on Thursday 25th December, the festive special of Emmerdale will air at the significantly earlier time of 6:15pm. Prior to that, the programme will hit screens at 6:55pm on Christmas Eve and once the big day is all over, the soap air again at 6:30pm on Boxing Day.

Emmerdale will then resume its ordinary slot in the days after Christmas, and conclude the festive period with an hour-long special on New Year’s Day.

There’s lots more for fans of Emmerdale to look forward to this Christmas, as evil mother-and-son duo Celia Daniels and Ray Walters are fearing the game is up and they may need to flee, amid their shocking drug schemes being exposed. But with Ray growing closer to Laurel Thomas, could he dare to dream of starting things afresh away from his evil mum?

Kim Tate’s recent near-death experience leaves her pushing people away, and soon Joe Tate is furious by a confession from Lydia Dingle. Joe returns to Home Farm to patch things up with Kim but she sends him packing.

But when she falls and hurts herself, she calls for help only for Lydia to arrive and help her. Kim immediately dismisses her, and she’s soon facing Christmas alone.

Wrapping up Christmas, there’s a public marriage proposal happens, Paddy is missing his father Bear as he remains on Celia’s farm, and Vanessa and Charity are strong-armed into spending Christmas Day together. When Vanessa gets drunk, Charity fears the beans will be spilled as a threat looms.

The entire festive schedule for the ITV soap is as follows: :

Monday December 22 – 7.30pm (30 minutes)Tuesday December 23 -7pm (30 minutes)Wednesday December 24 (Christmas Eve) – 6:55pm (30 minutes)Thursday December 25 (Christmas Day)- 6:15pm (One hour)Friday December 26 (Boxing Day) – 6:30pm (30 minutes) Monday December 29 – 7:30pm Tuesday December 30 – 7:30pmWednesday December 31 – 7:30pmThursday January 1 (New Year’s Day) 7pm (One hour)Friday January 2 – 7:30pm

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

Loose Women host Kaye Adams bid farewell to another co-star on Friday

Another Loose Women exit has been confirmed as host Kaye Adams made a sad announcement on Friday (December 19).

Friday’s instalment of the beloved ITV programme was fronted by Kaye, alongside panellists Denise Welch, Katie Piper and Jane Moore, as they discussed the day’s biggest talking points.

As the show drew to a close, Kaye revealed that producer Helen Stuart would be leaving the programme today.

“We also have to say a very, very fond farewell to our lovely producer, Helen, who is going off to pastures new. So, you take with us your love, Helen,” Kaye announced.

Jane and Denise chimed in with their farewells, saying: “Good luck, Helen!” reports the Express.

The departure follows closely after fellow Loose Women producer Eleanor Cotter said goodbye to the show following an 11-year stint, amid a series of changes at ITV.

Kaye broke the news on Wednesday (December 17), stating: “I might have a little cry today because our cherished producer Elle, it’s her last day after 11 years. So, we’re going to say we love you, Elle,” whilst Nadia Sawalha expressed: “We’re so sad.”

Later during the broadcast, Kaye acknowledged other departing crew members, including floor manager Katie Keates.

“I mentioned our lovely Elle, our producer, just before the break there and it’s a few last days today in the studio, of course, because we’re moving studios,” the presenter explained.

“Katie, our lovely floor manager, who’s looked after us. We’ve known her since she was a girl. And lots of our crew actually as well, so thank you very much to all of you. They’re an amazing bunch of people, they really are.”

This follows ITV’s announcement earlier this year of significant changes to its daytime line-up, affecting Loose Women, Lorraine, This Morning, and Good Morning Britain.

From January 2026, these programmes will move to a new central London location and operate under a restructured broadcasting timetable. The shake-up will see Loose Women revert to its previous 12.30pm to 1.30pm slot on a 30-week “seasonal basis”.

The programme will also be scrapping its live studio audience, meaning comedian Lee Peart will step down from his role as warm-up act – a position he’s occupied since 2017.

Before his exit, Lee made an on-screen appearance during today’s Loose Women, presenting the competition segment, which is typically fronted by Jeff Brazier.

Loose Women airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 12.30pm

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

Kelvin Fletcher and his wife Liz Fletcher shared a festive farm update just days before Christmas

Kelvin Fletcher has unveiled a “transformation” in an exciting farming update.

The former Emmerdale star and his wife Liz are known for their appearances on Fletchers’ Family Farm with their children Marnie, Milo, Maximus and Mateusz.

On Friday’s (December 19) episode of ITV’s Lorraine, the couple opened up on their festive plans for their 120-acre Peak District farm in a pre-recorded segment.

“Christmas is around the corner and we’ve got a lot to do. We have to decorate the entire farm for a magical Christmas at the farm,” Liz explained, with Kelvin adding: “It always starts with me and Liz bringing our ideas to life, so yeah, we’ve got quite a busy few weeks coming up.”

The couple began by reusing an old wooden pallet to make a welcoming Christmas sign. Kelvin chose black paint for the lettering, with the star jokingly admitting: “If it’s bad, I’m going to say the kids have done it!”

Liz then quipped: “I don’t think Meghan Markle will be getting you on her show, Kelvin.”

She added: “I’m supposed to be the creative one in the family, but it is really therapeutic to do and I can always tell Kelvin, although he’s like, ‘Yeah, you get on with that,’ he always wants to get involved. As you can see, he takes it quite seriously.

“When I met Kelvin, he was a proper lad’s lad. Drinking beers out with the rugby lads. Look at him now, taking painting a pallet really seriously.”

The pair then turned their attention to transforming the farm for an upcoming Christmas event, with “tonnes of decorations” being prepared to bring some festive cheer.

Kelvin said: “We’ve got a Christmas event coming up soon, so I think it’s going to be quite key for that. It’s a nice welcome notice. And then we’re going to transform the whole farm into a winter farm wonderland, if you like. There will be fairy lights galore and snowmen, it’ll feel very Christmassy.”

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

Liz added: “We got a tonne to decorate and it feels like we’ve not even started.”

Kelvin then went foraging for holly, before Liz created a stunning wreath for their front door using Christmas tree stems, baubles and other decorations. “I like to have a wreath that’s already made and go quite big with it, or you can start from scratch,” she said.

“My favourite thing about Christmas is it’s the only time that you’ll get your brothers, the wives, the cousins, the aunties all together. You’ll have tables at all different heights because you’re using all the emergency tables, all the emergency chairs. But you’re all there, and that’s what I love. I love seeing all the children together with their cousins, that’s what’s special.”

If you’d like to see more of the Fletchers over Christmas, you can stream an exciting festive special called Fletchers’ Country Workshop on ITVX, which sees Liz showcase her newfound passion for upcycling, crafting and interior design, just in time for Christmas Day.

Lorraine airs weekdays on ITV1 at 9am, while Fletchers’ Family Farm is available to stream on ITVX

Good Morning Britain host Adil Ray discussed a “serious situation” on Friday

A Good Morning Britain star warned “they could die” in a heartbreaking news update on Friday (December 19).

During the latest episode of the popular ITV breakfast show, presenters Adil Ray and Charlotte Hawkins brought viewers up to speed with breaking news from Britain and beyond.

They were accompanied in the studio by Sean Fletcher, who covered additional news items, whilst Laura Tobin delivered regular weather forecasts live from Nottingham.

Later in the programme, Adil and Charlotte examined the day’s pressing issues alongside regular panellists Salma Shah and Caroline Flint.

The discussion soon turned to the continuing Middle East conflict, with Adil identifying the eight Palestine Action campaigners who have been engaged in an indefinite hunger strike at HMP Bronzefield in Surrey, reports Wales Online.

The protest action commenced on November 2 and has been characterised as “the biggest coordinated prison hunger strike” in nearly four decades in Britain, according to campaign organisation Prisoners for Palestine, speaking at a press briefing on Thursday (December 18).

Over 800 medical professionals, legal specialists, and relatives have written to Justice Secretary David Lammy, calling on him to meet with their legal representatives to address the continuing demonstration.

“They have been arrested and charged because they were part of the Palestinian protests. Some of them have been on hunger strike for 47 days, it’s 48 now actually,” Adil stated.

“I’m too young to remember, but in 1981, IRA prisoners went on hunger strike. Some of them died within 46 days. It’s a serious situation.

“Should we be doing more in this case, Salma? Should the government be intervening? They’re saying the prisons have a system to deal with this. These could die. These prisoners are on remand, but they could die in prison.”

Salma responded: “It’s a difficult situation because nobody wants them to die, and they have decided to take a very drastic measure by going on a hunger strike.

“As I understand it, of the eight, there were six that were in critical condition; two of them have now stopped their hunger strike because they were in such a bad way.

“What we need to do is ensure that the medical support team that is in prison is allowed to try and convince them that this is not the right action going forward, because losing lives is not going to fundamentally change what they want to change.”

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice previously stated: “The Deputy Prime Minister has responded to and will continue to respond to correspondence on this issue, and is being kept informed of the situation. We continually assess prisoners’ wellbeing and will always take the appropriate action, including taking prisoners to hospital if they are assessed as needing treatment by a medical professional.”

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am

The former This Morning guest shared how Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan treated her off-camera, following a “disastrous” moment on the show

A former This Morning guest has revealed how her appearance on the show ended in disaster. Hosted by Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan at the time, podcast host Louise Boyce said she was invited onto the show as a teenager for a live haircut, though was mortified by the outcome.

Joined by Richard and Judy’s daughter Chloe Madeley on her podcast, she told her: “Your mum and dad, it [This Morning] was the first TV show that I went on when I was 15. And, I really want to find the footage, it must be in the archives somewhere, but I went on there to have my haircut, a live haircut.

“I was 15 years old, I was still at school and very aware of how I looked and the haircut was disastrous.”

Recalling her immediate reaction, she said she instantly knew it was “horrendous” but politely told the hairdresser she “really liked it” with a shaky voice.

“But, your mum and dad were so kind to me because they must’ve seen or felt that I was just like, ‘I hate what you’ve just [done to me’]’,” she continued on the No Parental Guidance podcast.

“‘You have just violated my hair live on TV, my first ever TV [experience]’. And they were so, your mum and dad, even off-camera they were like, ‘Hair grows, it’s okay’.”

In response, Chloe gushed: “I can’t say it enough how kind he is and how fair of a man he is and how unbelievably good his values and [morals] are. I get really angry when people go for him because I’m like, ‘You don’t know how good this person is’.”

The fitness guru continued by revealing she’d also picked up valuable lessons from her mum, especially regarding being “a calm” and “well adjusted” parent.

Richard and Judy presented the ITV programme from 1998 to 2001. When previously asked about their decision to leave the show, they said it felt like the right moment to move on and explore new ventures.

The duo went on to front their own programme, Richard and Judy, which was broadcast during early evening slots on Channel 4.

Richard remains a familiar presence on ITV as a presenter on Good Morning Britain, while Judy has stepped away from the public eye.

The former broadcaster was most recently spotted on television during their daughter’s ITV documentary, Chloe Madeley: A Family Affair.

However, after running for just one series, it didn’t return following Chloe’s split from rugby player James Haskell.

The pair, who are parents to two-year-old daughter Bodhi, announced their separation in 2023 after five years of marriage.

During her recent podcast chat, Chloe revealed that the former couple are still navigating a “stressful” divorce.

Providing an insight into her love life situation, she said she’s content with being single after having a disliking her experience on dating apps.

Emmerdale fans think they have worked out how it will all end for Celia and Ray ITV soap after a tense scene played out during Wednesday night’s episode of the Yorkshire-based serial

Emmerdale fans think they have worked out who will see to the end of Celia and Ray the ITV soap. The villainous farmer, who has been played by Jaye Griffiths over the last few months, has been carrying out a reign of terror across the Yorkshire village alongside Ray as she heads up a drug dealing operation and slavery ring.

Celia hasn’t acted alone, having recruited teenagers April Windsor and Dylan Penders into her evil scheme. But, mainly, she orchestrates the whole thing with her foster son Ray Walters, whom she took in off the streets several years ago.

The pair may have been a duo for decades, but after Celia scuppered Ray’s romance with Laurel Thomas in the latest episode of the ITV soap by making out he was something he was not, she had her foster son in tears during a tense seen that came at the end.

READ MORE: ‘Millions of fans have watched me in Emmerdale for 23 years but my kids refuse to tune in’READ MORE: Emmerdale star says Mary ‘could kill’ Celia as heartbreaking exit teased

After slapping him straight across the face, she said: “You think she’ll make you life easier? She won’t! You need someone to keep you real, someone who will stop you drifting off into these fantasies of yours.

“She doesn’t know you, she doesn’t want you the way you think she does because you are weak, Ray. You need someone to tell you when to speak, how to feel, how to exist. And aren’t you lucky that I am still here doing exactly that.”

Ray promptly burst into tears, and Celia coldly said: “Cry if you want to. But wipe your face before anyone sees you. They already pity you, let’s not confirm why.” Celia then left the room and Ray punched the wall in a fit of rage.

Fans of the soap will know that Celia is set to leave Emmerdale after a relatively short stay in the village but have been left puzzled how Ray and Celia have yet to be exposed.

One fan wrote on Reddit: “Ross, Mackenzie, Lewis and Robert all know that Ray is a drug dealer after he wanted Lewis’ weed. Surely one at least one of them would have seen Ray still sniffing around in the village or seen him with Laurel? What’s the likelihood of all 4 of them not seeing Ray still sniffing around in the village? I know Ross saw him a few months ago but that didn’t lead to anywhere apart from Ross warning him to stay away from the village.”

“Yeah one of them would have seen him at least once around the village, in the cafe or the pub. Just so happened that when he’s been in the cafe Nicola has just seen him,” a second added. A third penned: “Did Mackenzie and Lewis meet him? Ross did confront him and he played it off. The only one who could know is Robert but he may not know the range of Ray’s drug business, he’s also not part of Laurel’s social circle,” with another fan responding: “Yep they all met him. It was one of his first appearances in the village. Mackenzie was actually the one who brought Ray to the village.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays.

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