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A dull yellow light peeks through a brooding sky looming over rolling Southern California hills. The oil painting “Approaching Storm” captures the kind of picturesque scene that would get fine artist Paul Grimm work in early Hollywood. Known for his plein air landscapes and masterful depictions of clouds, he turned to studio work to make money during the Great Depression.
He is one of many artists on display at a new UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art exhibition about set painters whose work would go uncredited or overlooked.
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“They weren’t making their living selling their paintings, but they were making their living working for the studios,” said museum director Kathryn Kanjo. “The artist would lose their individual credit and recognition, to be at the service of what was needed by the studio.”
Elsewhere in the “Staging California in Early Hollywood” exhibition, hangs an 18-by-25-foot painted backing for “The Sound of Music” (1965), a project led by the then-art director of 20th Century Pictures’ special effects department, Emil J. Kosa Jr. He’d be the only one to get credit at the time, not the five other contributing artists, including celebrated plein air artist Arthur Grover Rider, who are also noted in the museum description.
“In general, at the studios, they systematized the production design, so that it was fast,” Kanjo said, describing the rigid process as militaristic. “Five artists at a time work day after day to get these things done.”
It’s the museum’s first exhibition since UC Irvine acquired the Orange County Museum of Art last September, building a 9,000-piece collection dating back to the 19th century.
The exhibition, with about 50 pieces, is the first since Kanjo’s appointment in December. It’s a love letter to the film industry’s anonymous and little-known artists, whose works were vital to movies.
The exhibition opens with Paul Grimm’s Untitled, 1974, left, and “Approaching Storm,” 1974, right, which capture the essence of the Southern California landscape.
(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)
Take two of the most prolific set artists of the mid-20th century: Warren Newcombe and George Gibson. Newcombe was a Massachusetts-born, well-educated artist who started working on sets as early as 1920. He’d eventually join the MGM art department, where he perfected a visual effect technique called “matte painting.” For a time, it was simply referred to as the “Newcombe shot.”
Gibson was also at MGM around the same time. When the studio first hired the Scottish artist, he’d routinely miss shifts to paint plein air in Southern California. He and Newcombe would help craft “The Wizard of Oz” (1939), but when the credits rolled, both their names were missing.
Newcombe and Gibson would go on to be recognized and celebrated for their work. About a decade after “The Wizard of Oz,” Newcombe won two Oscars for special effects, for “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo” (1944) and “Green Dolphin Street” (1947).
“He was really instrumental in the professionalization of artists at MGM,” assistant curator Michaëla Mohrmann said of Gibson. “His insistence on color saturation is something that really informs his work for ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ and it’s really that movie that cements his reputation as one of the masters of scenic art.”
Meanwhile, artists like Arthur Beaumont hardly got their due. Raised by a military family in England, the California transplant was particularly captivated by naval vessels. By 1933, he had painted maritime art for most of the U.S. Naval fleet. As a result of his work, he was commissioned as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy and recognized as its fleet’s official artist.
He also began producing promotional materials and storyboards for Paramount Studios’ naval films as early as 1935, first for a movie titled “Mutiny on the Bounty.” In 1942, he would do the same for “Wake Island” in the midst of World War II. His work was later etched into metal plates and used to mass-produce publicity prints.
Museum director Kathryn Kanjo stands between Arthur Grover Rider’s “Ortega Highway” (1974), left, and Emil J. Kosa Jr.’s “How Marvelous Thy Works” (1928).
(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)
“They were participating [in the military and war] in different functions and not always credited for that kind of work,” Mohrmann said. “I think there was an act of generosity [during wartime] in general — everyone was really patriotic.”
The exhibition also features a silent film titled “The Life and Death of 9413: a Hollywood Extra,” a 1928 short highlighting the plight of a background actor known as “9413.”
“It’s all like him being shoveled around and underappreciated and not even given a name, right?” Kanjo said. “Everybody thought it was funny because it was kind of meta, but it was pointing out real issues.”
Beyond giving credit where credit’s due, the exhibition aims to uplift background art.
“Back then as well as now, people question the artistic merits of these works because they were made for films that were for profit,” Mohrmann said. “When in reality there was a ton of talent and artistry and critical thinking.”
The 48-year-old has won over audiences with his approachable demeanour as he fronts the daily magazine programme alongside Helen Skelton and Michelle Ackerley.
However, the former Blue Peter host has now been reminded of the BBC’s editorial guidelines after he reportedly contravened broadcasting rules while on air.
Gethin is a longstanding ambassador for the Welsh heritage jewellery brand Clogau and has appeared in numerous promotional campaigns for the company. He even has a Clogau ‘wife’ – model Nikki Chislett, with whom he promoted last Christmas’s festive jewellery range while sporting a wedding band.
But The Mail on Sunday has now reported that Gethin has also been seen wearing various timepieces from Clogau while hosting Morning Live – which places him in breach of stringent BBC guidelines, reports Wales Online.
The corporation’s regulations stipulate that presenters ‘must not appear on-air wearing clothing or using products or services which they have been contracted to promote’.
BBC Studios told The Mirror: “We have clear guidelines around presenters’ commercial activities while working with the BBC, and Gethin has been reminded of these guidelines.”
According to The Mail on Sunday, throughout the past eight months Gethin has sported numerous Clogau watches on Morning Live, including a £550 model featuring a stainless-steel case and black bezel. Another timepiece, priced at £420, features a polished stainless-steel case with gold plating and is accompanied by a black leather strap.
He has additionally been spotted sporting a stainless-steel watch displaying a textured black dial alongside contrasting silver-tone hands and numerals.
Gethin becomes the most recent personality to seemingly flout BBC regulations. Monty Don, 70, received a reprimand last month following his appearance in a £300 Barbour jacket while filming Gardeners’ World – having previously featured in an advertising campaign for the brand.
The Mirror revealed that the jacket features in promotional material for Barbour’s Way of Life campaign, which prompts fans to “shop the look” showcased by the television presenter.
At the time, the BBC stated: “We have clear guidelines around presenters’ commercial activities while working with the BBC, and Monty has been reminded of these guidelines.”
Morning Live is on BBC One weekdays at 9.30am and BBC iPlayer
LEE Andrews’ ex Alana Percival has signed up to a brand new dating show hosted by a shamed Celebs Go Dating star.
The wellbeing and fitness coach used to date self-styled businessman Lee, 43, before he sweptKatie Priceoff of her feet in awhirlwind romance.
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Lee Andrews’ ex Alana Percival has signed up to a brand new dating showCredit: InstagramLee popped the question to Alana in September 2025, in the exact same way he proposed to Katie PriceCredit: Instagram
Lee even popped the question to Alana in September 2025, in the exact same way as he proposed to Katie this January, with rose petals and bath robes a-plenty.
Alana has remained in the spotlight to slam her “lying” ex and express her fears for Katie, 48 – but it’s not put her off trying to find love again.
We can report how she has signed up for controversial broadcaster Nadia Essex‘s LoveTok – a social media dating show where members of the public apply to date a famous face via TikTok.
Alana will join Love Island alum Jack Fincham on the series and took to Instagram to reveal her new telly role.
She has said she has ‘healed’ from her experience with LeeCredit: Click News and MediaLoveTok is fronted by shamed CGD expert Nadia EssexCredit: Not known clear with picture desk
She said: “I am joining LoveTok because I have spent some time healing.
“I went over to Thailand for a little while, I’ve healed and as we could say, I’ve found myself”.
Uploading the news to her Instagram page, Nadia gushed: “I am Sooooooo excited for you to see her and get to know her for her.
“Away from the drama and the toxic ex I can’t wait for you all to see that Alana is an incredible woman who is ready to find love she deserves.
Alana told how she had ‘found herself’ on a trip to ThailandCredit: InstagramLove Island alum Jack Fincham has also signed upCredit: Louis Wood
“I take my job of holding her heart really seriously so I will do my best not to let her down.
“Alana’s week launches on Monday July 6th so tune in at 8:30pm to watch me matchmake her with real people in real live stream dates.
“@lovetokuk launches officially this Monday at 8:30pm so tune in then”.
Failed actor is just another title to add toLee’s questionable CV, after he claimed to have once worked as the Director of Philanthropy at The Prince’s Trust (now The King’s Trust)
Lee also shared images – since proven to be AI – of him working with Elon Musk and Kim Kardashian
It’s been revealed shameless Lee told former girlfriends that he had studied at Cambridge University, and has a PhD in biotechnology science
But The Sun has seen a response from the university explaining it could not find a record of Lee being registered as a student with a date of birth they had provided
His LinkedIn profile says Lee has been a Member of the Board of Advisors to the Labour Party since 2015
Lee was also mocked for repeating theexact same wedding proposalon Katie – that he did for another woman just four months ago.
After she was found to be misusing social media, a TV source said at the time: “Nadia has been suspended from the show until further notice and won’t be appearing on the rest of the series.
“Bosses have made the decision following an investigation into Nadia’s use of social media.
“She was found to be setting up fake accounts to troll certain users – which is something that won’t be tolerated.”
Meanwhile, Lee’s former relationship with Alana has been under the radar of late.
Lee connected with Alana on Facebook in March last year and she explained how he “love bombed” her with cash transfers, Louis Vuitton bags and Cartier jewellery.
Speaking about Katie to The Sun earlier this year, Alana expressed: “I just worry for her welfare.
“I worry he’ll maybe end up getting her arrested or a flight ban. He obviously has no remorse toward anyone.”
In her exclusive interview, Alana added: “Katie should run for the hills. Lee is a liar, a narcissist and I think he’s a manipulator.
“Once I tried to leave him, he told me had a heart condition and was living on borrowed time.
“Lee doesn’t know what’s fact and what’s fiction.
“It’s worrying because I think he believes his own lies.”
Also in the exclusive chat, Alana said Lee showered her with gifts, and she recognises the significance of Katie and Andrews’ matching 11:11 handtattoos.
A popular BBC crime drama filmed at breathtaking locations across Scotland is preparing for series 2 following its breakout 2025 debut
Filming has wrapped on a second season of BBC crime drama An t-Eilean/The Island(Image: BBC)
Filming has wrapped on the second series of a BBC crime drama set in Scotland.
An t-Eilean (The Island) is a Scottish-Gaelic drama that became one of the broadcaster’s most notable successes following its debut in 2025.
Praised for its atmospheric storytelling, breathtaking scenery and celebration of Scottish heritage, the series swiftly built a devoted following and earned widespread acclaim from viewers, who described it as “intriguing” and “compelling”.
Production on the new four-part series concluded this month, with cast and crew heading back to some of the same remote locations that helped shape the show’s distinctive character, reported Digital Spy.
Filming for the second series — which is anticipated to air in either late 2026 or early 2027 — took place across the Isles of Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides, where dramatic coastlines, rugged moorland and isolated communities serve as the backdrop for a gripping new mystery.
If you can’t wait to catch the new storylines, the first series — starring Sorcha Groundsell as Detective Sergeant Kat Crichton — is available to stream now on BBCiPlayer, reports Glasgow Live.
Among the notable locations featured in the crime drama previously was Amhuinnsuidhe Castle, a Victorian estate nestled on Harris. The property served as the residence of the powerful Maclean family and may well feature once more as the storyline returns to the islands.
The village of Breasclete, which also featured prominently in the opening series, has likewise been utilised for filming the latest episodes.
An t-Eilean attracted widespread attention when it initially premiered in January 2025 as the BBC’s most costly Gaelic-language drama to date. On the IMDb website one fan highlighted the “compelling plot, good acting, stunning scenery” while another hailed the “beautiful scenery to match an intriguing series”.
The ambitious production was broadly regarded as a watershed moment for Gaelic television and received acclaim for introducing Scotland’s native language to a wider viewership.
Lead actress Sorcha told The Hollywood Reporter: “It is really an inspiring time and a necessary time to take ownership of our language and our culture and celebrate it for what it is, which is a source of incredible joy to so many people.”
Sorcha also acknowledged that performing in Gaelic on screen posed distinct difficulties, despite having acquired the language during childhood. “A lot of us were feeling some pressure about our levels of fluency,” she said.
“If anything, that makes it all the more important to participate in a show like this, because, if we maintain this feeling that our Gaelic is never good enough to use, no one will ever have a chance to use Gaelic.”
An t-Eilean/The Island series one is available to watch on BBC iPlayer
Melanie Sykes has showed off her completely bald head after opening up on her alopecia battleCredit: instagram/msmelaniesykesMel showed off her bald patches and hair loss just days agoCredit: instagram/msmelaniesykes
But taking to Instagramthis morning, Mel showed that she had no hair left at all.
The telly star flashed a smile in the selfie that she simply captioned as: “Loss + Gain = Life.”
Her brave new post comes amid Mel’s honesty about her recent health issues and the impact to has taken on her.
She previously explained how the autoimmune condition has progressed over time and had left her with noticeable bald patches across her head.
The star has been open about her dealing with hair loss for the past yearCredit: instagram/msmelaniesykesThe condition previously left Mel in ‘so much pain’Credit: GettyMel had previously been wearing head scarves in her recent postsCredit: instagram/msmelaniesykesShe has been open with her followers about her recent battleCredit: Not known clear with picture desk
Mel first opened up about facing life with alopecia last year.
She said: “I’ve got an autoimmune condition, I am losing my hair, I keep having crazy inflammation all over and I am working on healing.
“In the last three months, I’ve done a meditation teacher training course.
“I was too ill to finish it like. The last two days of it I couldn’t do.
“It’s meditation teacher training, I don’t necessarily want to teach, but I can do…
What is alopecia and what causes it?
About two per cent of the population will experience alopecia at some point in their lifetime, with around one in every 4,000 developing the condition each year.
It can start at any age but is most common in early adulthood and can lead to a lack of all hair including eyelashes and eyebrows, nasal hair and public hair.
Alopecia areata causes patches of baldness about the size of a large coin.
“Alopecia” is the medical term for hair loss and “areata” means that it occurs in small, random areas. There are various classifications, including:
Alopecia areata totalis: Total hair loss on the scalp
Alopecia areata universalis: Total hair loss on your scalp and all body hair
The causes of alopecia areata are not fully understood but the loss of hair is because of inflammation around the hair follicles.
The cause of the inflammation is unknown but it is believed that the immune system, which normally protects the body from infections and other diseases, misfires and attacks the hair follicles.
Therefore, it is understood to be an autoimmune condition, says Alopecia UK.
Genetics may be behind the condition, but there are other things thought to trigger it, including a virus, iron deficiency or stress. Studies are not conclusive.
For women, sometimes birth can trigger postpartum alopecia.
In most cases of alopecia areata, hair will grow back in a few months to a year. At first, hair may grow back fine and white, but over time it should thicken and regain its normal colour.
There is no cure for the condition, only treatments that are not guaranteed to work.
People with alopecia may need to take extra precautions, including protecting their skin and eyes when outside and preventing stress.
“Mostly I’ve been living a very, very very spiritual existence.
“I’m two-thirds bald, really. Every time I say I’m bald I laugh, I don’t know why… Thank god I can laugh.”
Last month, Melanie revealed that her hair had been coming out “really quickly”, after losing hair for more than a year.
She explained to fans how she has been trying on wigs, with her now ditching head scarves because she is keen to “get some hair”.
Sources claim the cheeky chaps have joined the new series, set in Canada, that will air as part of the celebration to mark 25 years of I’m A Celebrity…
Keith and Brian have reportedly signed up for a new show(Image: PA)
Brian McFadden and Keith Duffy have reportedly become the first stars lined up for ITV’s brand new I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! spin-off.
The Westlife singer, 46, and Boyzone star, 51, are said to have agreed to take part in The Wild Frontier, a new version of the hit reality show which is expected to begin filming in Canada later this year.
Unlike the Australian series, the spin-off will see celebrities competing in pairs, with friends, relatives and couples taking on Bushtucker-style trials together before facing elimination as a duo.
The show is reportedly due to air in 2027, as part of celebrations marking 25 years of I’m A Celebrity – which first hit our screens in August, 2002.
According to The Sun, the long-time friends have signed lucrative deals to appear in the series, with a source claiming: “Bosses are delighted that Keith and Brian will be taking part, they’ll each bring a lot of fun and mischief to the camp.”
The insider added that producers are excited by the new format, claiming it is expected to get viewers talking as famous duos battle it out together.
Rather than competing individually, contestants will reportedly tackle challenges as pairs, working together to win food and survive eliminations before one winning duo is crowned.
The Sun also reports that casting teams are hoping to secure a mix of celebrity friends, couples and famous faces alongside their non-famous relatives or partners.
Filming is expected to take place in Canada’s Callaghan Valley, near Whistler Olympic Park, replacing the Australian jungle for the special spin-off series.
The area is known for its rugged wilderness and is home to wildlife including grizzly bears, black bears and mountain lions, providing a dramatically different backdrop for the celebrity survival show.
Brian already has a link to the I’m A Celebrity franchise through his former wife Kerry Katona, who was crowned Queen of the Jungle in 2004.
Meanwhile, the main I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! series will continue to be filmed in Australia as normal later this year.
The Mirror has contacted ITV, Brian McFadden, and Keith Duffy for comment.
Fans are hailing the film as a ‘masterpiece’ and calling it their favourite movie of the year
The film comes from legendary director Edgar Wright(Image: Courtesy of Paramount Plus)
A gripping thriller based on a popular novel has finally landed on streaming and viewers are calling it a ‘masterpiece’.
The action-packed movie, adapted from a novel by Stephen King, hit cinemas last year and is tailor-made for fans of nail-biting franchises such as Mission: Impossible or Fast and Furious.
Its IMDb synopsis reads: “A man joins a game show in which contestants, allowed to flee anywhere in the world, are pursued by ‘hunters’ hired to kill them.”
The film was helmed by legendary director Edgar Wright, celebrated for cult favourites such as Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and Baby Driver.
The Running Man is the most recent 2025 adaptation of King’s iconic novel, with Glen Powell taking on the lead role of Ben Richards – a part previously made famous by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1987 original.
The supporting cast boasts an impressive line-up including Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones and Martin Herlihy, reports the Express.
The film currently holds a 61% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes alongside a 6.4 rating on IMDb, with legions of fans applauding this fresh take on the dystopian tale.
Now available on Paramount Plus, the streaming platform has teased: “The Running Man is a fun, unhinged deadly game show where contestants must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins, with every move broadcast to a bloodthirsty public and each day bringing a greater cash reward.”
Over on IMDb, one enthusiast awarded the film a perfect 10/10, declaring: “Let me put it this way. I saw it at a matinee this afternoon and now I’m going back with my husband. I’m not a Glen Powell fan but I do live Edgar Wright movies and this one delivers. Don’t go see it if you want to relax!
“I read the Stephen King novel years and years ago and saw the Arnold Schwarzenegger movie years ago as well, so i can’t tell you how it compares, but this one stands on its own as the best action movie of the year… and maybe the decade…so far.”
A second viewer hailed the film as a ‘masterpiece of literary adaptation’, remarking: “Hands down the best adaptation of King’s work. You can literally watch the movie and turn pages. Powell’s Richards jumps out of the book.
“The ending got the Hollywood treatment, but still accomplished the same goal. I waited 34 years for a faithful version of this, and now we have it. The casting feels like they all read the novel.”
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Telly fans can get seven days of free access to Paramount+ shows like Tulsa King and Dexter: Original Sin by signing up for a free trial via Amazon Prime’s Paramount+ channel.
Another cinema-goer commented: “One of the best movies of the year. After being trailer after trailer at the cinema for what seems the whole year, I was fearing this would be a total flop.
“I need not have worried because this is an action packed, well scripted remake of the original. Everyone is cast perfectly and all performances are great. It keeps you guessing throughout the movie and the twists and turns keep it going. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Well worth a visit.”
One further viewer chipped in: “It was perfect. Edgar Wright nailed I.T. on this expensive movie. The action, everything. A lot better than the 1987. It follows the book. Glen Powell did a great Job on playing the character Ben Richards.”
They even drew comparisons to other beloved action franchises, adding: “This film feels like a big mix of Fast and Furious and Mission: Impossible. I love the chase scenes.”
Over on Rotten Tomatoes, one enthusiastic viewer gushed: “Excellent film! Glen Powell did great with his character, Ben Richards.”
“Fresh! Intensely gripping all the way through. Great acting on all parts,” another remarked, while a further viewer noted: “Loved this. Im 100% certain that Stephen King will be so happy with this version of his brilliant book. Great all round really enjoyable watch.”
Not everybody was won over, however, with one person writing: “A real disappointment, falling flat both as social commentary and as an action movie.”
Another disgruntled viewer complained: “The first one was way better. Loved the satire and Richard Dawson, who was a game show host in real life, as the host in the original. Tired of remakes with all the social commentary without improving the whole movie.”
The Running Man is available to stream on Paramount Plus now.
The Netflix crime drama has been hailed as “perfect” and “the best series ever”
Crooks returned to Netflix for Season 2 in 2026(Image: NETFLIX)
Fans of crime dramas on the hunt for their next binge-worthy series should give this Netflix show a go.
Crooks follows the chaotic exploits of Charly (played by Frederick Lau), a man desperately trying to rescue his kidnapped family after his murky past comes back to haunt him, reports the Express.
Charly is forced, alongside getaway driver Joseph (Christoph Krutzler), to attempt the theft of a priceless gold coin.
When the heist unravels spectacularly, Charly and Joseph find themselves hurtling across the Continent in a bid to save his family, coming up against organised crime outfits from Berlin to Vienna to Marseilles. Netflix described Crooks as “an adventurous and action-packed road trip across three national borders begins”.
The series has earned widespread acclaim on IMDb, with one viewer awarding it a perfect 10/10 review, declaring: “The Story is Perfect.”
They concluded: “I haven’t had such an intense series experience in a long time. For me, it’s easily one of the best series I’ve ever watched.”
A second reviewer gave Crooks 9/10, calling it an “excellent series” that “keeps you engaged”.
They added: “The series captivates with its compelling narrative, keeping viewers glued to their screens.”
While a third viewer hailed Crooks a “fantastic series” in their own 9/10 review, explaining: “Brilliant show – elements of Dogs of Berlin with a Guy Ritchie edge.
“Very well done and hits the mark of a gangland action drama, but with an under thread of a real friendship story with a very human touch.”
A fourth viewer titled their review: “Entertaining thriller with action and suspense.”
They elaborated: “Crooks is a good crime, action show which lulls you into binge watching all eight episodes without much thought. Thoroughly enjoyable!”.
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Sky is giving away a free Netflix subscription with its new Sky Stream TV bundles, including the £15 Essential TV plan.
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.
Crooks initially arrived back in 2024, with Season 2 recently dropping on Netflix this April.
Season 2 unfolds in Thailand as Crooks expands internationally.
This time around, Charly finds himself compelled to steal the same gold coin from the government, which is threatening to jail him and his family for a crime he didn’t commit.
MOLLY-MAE Hague has shared some sweet new snaps of baby Midas, and they look absolutely adorable.
The reality TV stunner and her beau Tommy Fury welcomed their second child together four weeks ago.
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Molly-Mae Hague shared some sweet new snaps of baby MidasCredit: Intagram / mollymaeThe star marked the one month mark, saying it’s been four weeks as a family of fourCredit: Intagram / mollymae
Now marking the milestone of four weeks as a family of four, Molly-Mae took to her Instagram story to share a series of unseen baby photos.
In the first snap Tommy is cradling tiny Midas in his arms and laughing with glee.
The couple’s daughter Bambi, 3, is sitting playfully on Tommy’s leg and looking up at him as he laughs.
Over the top of the photo Molly-Mae penned: “One month as a crazy family of four,” followed by emojis of a laughing face, white heart and a family.
Molly-Mae also posted a throwback snap to the day she gave birth to her sonCredit: Intagram / mollymaeThe star shared snaps of her baby’s nursery as well, which she had been updating her followers on while renovatingCredit: Intagram / mollymae
A second snap shows Midas being held outside on some patio furniture.
The little one is swaddled up in a white blanket, sleepily keeping his eyes open.
Above his head, Molly-Mae gushed yet again: “4 weeks of you.”
A final snap shows Molly-Mae holding Midas while still in a hospital bed.
Tommy is looking down at his son with his hands held up to his face in disbelief and joy.
Molly-Mae said of the moment: “One of the best moments of my life. Will never get over it.”
COUNTRY legend Alan Jackson is preparing to take the stage one final time – but behind his emotional farewell has been a grueling 15-year battle with a degenerative nerve disease that has changed his life.
The music icon was diagnosed with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease in 2011, but kept it private for a decade before publicly revealing the condition in 2021.
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Alan Jackson first opened up about his health and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease diagnosis when he revealed his diagnosis on the TODAY show in 2021Credit: NBCAlan Jackson performs at Shoreline Amphitheater on July 21, 1991 in Mountain View, CaliforniaCredit: Getty
The hereditary disorder causes nerve damage, mostly in the arms and legs, leading to muscle weakness, loss of sensation, balance problems, and difficulty walking.
Behind Alan’s final curtain call is a brutal health battle that has quietly followed him for more than 15 years.
“It’s been affecting me for years,” he said in 2021 while first revealing the diagnosis on the Today Show.
“And it’s getting more and more obvious. I know I’m not going to be able to tour like I have.”
Alan, 67, also revealed the diagnosis runs in his family, explaining: “I have this neuropathy and neurological disease. It’s genetic that I inherited from my daddy.”
The disease affects balance, coordination, and muscle control – making even simple movement more difficult as it progresses.
For a performer known for commanding massive stages and playing live instruments, the condition has made touring especially challenging.
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Alan has opened up about his struggles, saying: “I know I’m stumbling around on stage. And now I’m having a little trouble balancing, even in front of the microphone.”
Over the years, Alan has continued performing despite worsening symptoms, though he acknowledged the disease has forced him to adjust.
“I don’t feel comfortable,” he said of performing while navigating the disorder. “It’s going to disable me eventually.”
While Charcot-Marie-Tooth does not always directly impact life expectancy, there is no cure, according to the Mayo Clinic.
What is Charcot–Marie–Tooth Disease?
Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (often shortened to CMT) is a group of inherited disorders that damage the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord that control movement and sensation. The condition causes the nerves to send weaker signals to muscles, which can lead to muscle weakness, shrinking of muscles, and loss of feeling, especially in the feet, legs, hands, and arms.
Early warning signs can include:
Frequent tripping or clumsiness
Difficulty balancing
Foot deformities such as high arches or hammertoes
Weakness in the legs or hands
Numbness or tingling
A diagnosis usually comes after a neurological exam, family history review, nerve conduction studies, genetic testing, and sometimes electromyography (EMG).
There is no cure for CMT, and the condition is progressive – meaning symptoms can worsen over time. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining mobility through physical therapy, occupational therapy, braces, orthopedic devices, pain management, and in some cases surgery.
The disease is not typically fatal and most people live a normal lifespan, but it can significantly impact mobility, independence, and quality of life as it advances. Because it is genetic, family members may also carry or develop the condition, which is how Alan Jackson said he inherited it from his father.
CMT is one of the most common inherited neurological disorders, affecting about 1 in 2,500 people worldwide.
Symptoms often begin in adolescence or early adulthood, but some people, like Alan Jackson, may not be diagnosed until later in life when symptoms become more noticeable.
Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms through physical therapy, braces, pain management, and mobility support.
Still, Alan said he has refused to let the diagnosis define him, pushing through multiple tours and live shows while accepting that the end of his road on stage would come in the nearer future.
Now, the singer is set for his final full-length concert, Last Call: One More for the Road – The Finale, on June 27 at Nissan Stadium.
The massive send-off will bring Alan back to Nashville – the city where his career first took off – and feature an all-star lineup including Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, George Strait, Carrie Underwood, Lainey Wilson, Little Big Town, Thomas Rhett, Jake Owen, Jon Pardi, and Lee Ann Womack.
Alan Jackson’s final concert ever will include a superstar lineup of his friends for Last Call: One More For The RoadCredit: Instagram / officialalanjacksonAlan Jackson performs onstage at The 56th Annual CMA Awards at Bridgestone Arena on November 09, 2022 in Nashville, TennesseeCredit: Getty
The sold-out show will begin in the early evening and rock on all night, with more than 50,000 fans expected in attendance.
And for those who can’t make it in person, the historic farewell will be filmed for an NBC primetime special titled Alan Jackson: The Last Show, before streaming the following day on Peacock.
For the country crooner, it’s a full-circle moment – and the closing chapter of one of music’s most enduring careers.
The Georgia native has sold more than 75 million records worldwide, with a staggering 35 Number 1 hits and 50 Top 10 singles to his name.
Alan Jackson performs live on stage during the 2015 Country Music Awards festivalCredit: AlamyAlan poses with his wife, Denise, and their daughtersCredit: Facebook / Alan Jackson
He’s won two Grammy Awards, 16 CMA Awards, 17 ACM Awards, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2017.
The singer is also a member of the Grand Ole Opry and has long been praised for helping preserve traditional country music through hits like Chattahoochee, Livin’ on Love, Remember When, and Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning).
Alan has long credited his family as the backbone of his decades-long career.
He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Denise Jackson, since 1979 after the pair met as teenagers in their hometown of Newnan, Georgia.
Denise famously helped launch his music career after running into country legend Glen Campbell on a flight and passing along Alan’s demo – a moment that helped change their lives forever.
Together, Alan and Denise share three daughters: Mattie Jackson Smith, Alexandra Jane Bradshaw, and Dani Grace Jackson.
RYLAN has apologised after being forced to pull out of his BBC Radio Two show.
The 37-year-old was due to be on air today, but failed to make it home from Nice, France.
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Rylan forced to pull out of his BBC Radio 2 show after being stranded abroad – as he details desperate attempt to get homeCredit: InstagramHe hosts a weekly show on BBC Radio 2Credit: Instagram
The radio host had to be replaced at the eleventh hour after being stranded abroad.
Calling into Emma Willis‘ show to explain his predicament, Rylan said: “I decided to go away with my partner and a couple of my friends to Nice for a few days and just enjoy the sun.
“I didn’t have work this week, I’d managed to clear my diary and I was like, that’s amazing.
“I was flying back very early this morning, so I went to the airport and it was like, ‘no’.
“At one point I was going to get on an eight-hour train, which still would have made me late for work, but would have got me home today.
“In the end I thought, ‘you know what, you’ve done well for yourself, I’m just going to stay another day’.
“What can I do? I’m not going to be able to make the show today so I thought I can either really stress myself out about this and sweat my foundation off my forehead or I’m just going to have to swallow it and deal with it and go, ‘what a shame, there’s worse places to be’.”
Rylan was replaced by Mark Goodier, with a BBC rep confirming on social media: “Rylan got stranded somewhere Nice…”
Rylan replied in the comments, writing: “So unprofessional.”
He also went on his Instagram, telling fans: “Soz about today’s show.
“I blame everyone but myself.
“Genuinely had it all sussed out and then flights all cancelled.
“Thanks Mark for stepping in you legend. Gonna have a rosé and think of you all.”
Mark stepped up to the hotseat for Rylan to host the film and TV quiz Couch Potatoes and discovered how listeners’ holiday dilemmas turned into a feel-good success story.
Rylan will be back next week to host his three-hour show Rylan On Saturday which airs weekly at 3pm.
Rylan explained why he was missing from his BBC Radio 2 showCredit: InstagramHis radio two colleague Emma Willis didn’t look impressedCredit: Instagram
Sir Rod Stewart’s Glastonbury 2025 performance was rebroadcast on the BBC on Saturday night
The BBC has aired a repeat of Rod’s Glastonbury performance(Image: Getty)
Singer Sir Rod Stewart left BBC viewers distracted just minutes into his performance.
Sir Rod’s Glastonbury performance, originally broadcast in 2025, was reshown on Saturday evening. In a repeat episode of Rod Stewart at Glastonbury, audiences watched the rock legend once more commanding the Pyramid Stage on the festival’s closing day at Worthy Farm in 2025.
One delighted viewer commented on X at the time: “80 years old. Just feel good throughout. What a star,” while another declared, “Rod Stewart still looks great at the age of 80. He’s still got it.”
Another admirer gushed: “All those eyes on Rod. He looks fabulous for his age.”
One supporter commented, “He deserves that crowd after all these years,” as another enthused, “Sir Rod Stewart… phenomenal! 80 years old and had us all in rapture. Best there is,” the Express reports.
Someone else continued, ” Wait – Rod Stewart 80, Ronnie Wood – 76, Lulu 76, thanks and massive respect for you all. Shows age is a number, but talent…. ageless.”
Back in 2025, Rod shared his enthusiasm ahead of Glastonbury and told Radio Times, “I’m really looking forward to it. And it is a different gig, it’s like when you’re playing a cup final, you’re trying to treat it like another game. But, of course, it’s not. It’s special. It’ll be glamorous, it’ll be sexy.
“And we’ve got a little orchestra coming on to play with us. And we may have some bagpipes.”
More recently, Rod has been forced to withdraw from several performances due to health issues. This week, Rod was also spotted with an oxygen tank, prompting worry amongst fans.
His wife, Penny Lancaster, said during an appearance on Loose Women that it “looked a lot scarier than it really was”. She told her co-stars, “He had to cancel a couple of shows prior to that because of a respiratory infection.
“He was recovering and well enough to perform. But he wasn’t aware that Salt Lake City, where he was performing, was way above sea level. So the altitude levels, just for your regular person, is a challenge. If you’re not acclimatised, like sportsmen would arrive before an event, a week before to acclimatise.”
She added, “Rod just flew in on the day of the show, wasn’t aware of this particular altitude. So he was already down on his juice because of recovering from his respiratory infection. And then he was also down another 17% of oxygen because of the altitude. So when he’s on stage, and of course, his two-hour show involves him running around, he doesn’t sit still for a minute, it suddenly hit him.
“But there are oxygen tanks at these particular shows for that reason, because even the young ones, if they’ve had a late night out before a show, they can suffer, and they do.”
Rod Stewart at Glastonbury 2025 is available to watch on BBCiPlayer.
AN iconic British singer is set to perform at the World Cup Final’s halftime show.
The musician, 52, has been booked to sing ahead of the game on the pitch at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, on Sunday, July 19.
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A music legend has been revealed as a performer at the Word Cup Final’s halftime showCredit: Getty ImagesRobbie Williams shall take to the stageCredit: Getty
Robbie Williams will belt out his FIFAfootball anthem Desire with Italian pop star Laura Pausini, 52.
The singer is largely known from his time in Take ThatCredit: GettyRobbie also sang the Official FIFA Club World Cup anthem Desire prior to kick off in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025Credit: Getty
Earlier this month Noel Gallagher revealed he wasn’t too impressed with the line-up so far.
Asked on Talksport for his thoughts about performers booked he said: “I don’t like the razzmatazz of football.
“It’s been functioning perfectly for hundreds of years.
“They’re not really football people who are performing anyway, are they?”
Robbie began his music career in 1990 at the tender of of 16 years old.
The teen joined the hugely successful group Take That before dabbling in releasing solo music five years later.
HARRY Style’s ex girlfriend Nadine Leopold has just revealed that she’s pregnant with her first child.
The stunning Victoria’s Secret model, 32, took to Instagram to announce the amazing news with a series of black and white photos.
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Harry Styles’ ex Nadine Leopold has revealed that she’s pregnantCredit: InstagramNadine and the singer dated between 2014 and 2015Credit: Getty
In the post Nadine compiled four snaps together showing her blossoming belly from different angles.
She cradles her bump and holds up a pregnancy test next to it in one picture, meanwhile others show her with her hands on her lower back to really flaunt the change in her figure.
Penned alongside the photos, Nadine said in the post’s caption: “The best is yet to come…” followed by emojis of a baby’s bottle and a white heart.
Fans of the star flooded the comment’s section with congratulatory messages.
LOOKING cool is no sweat for Kylie Jenner — thanks to her latest cosmetics creation.
The US beauty mogul posed in a see-through slip dress to help promote a powder which claims to be sweat and humidity-proof.
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Kylie Jenner posed in a see-through slip dress to help promote a powder which claims to be sweat and humidity-proofCredit: Instagram Kylie CosmeticsThe model has provided the AI assistant’s voice for a pair of smart glassesCredit: Meta
It is the latest launch from her Kylie Cosmetics range, which has helped the 28-year-old rake in a £500million fortune.
Meanwhile Kylie, who is dating Oscar-nominated actor Timothée Chalamet, has provided the AI assistant’s voice for a pair of smart glasses.
She also helped design the £359 oval Starfire Kylie Edition shades for tech giant Meta.
Wearers can take photos and videos, make and answer phone calls, listen to music and interact with a virtual assistant voiced by Kylie.
Kylie also helped design the £359 oval Starfire Kylie Edition shades for tech giant MetaCredit: MetaThe new hi-tech specs come in 26 different styles and eight colour options
They include selections of Meta Adventurer (rectangular) and Meta Fury (squared) spectacles, as well as Meta Glasses by Kylie (with a slim oval shape).
They’re all “smart glasses”, which means they have built-in cameras, microphones, and an AI assistant – but not a display.
Fifa World Cup 2026 fans were quick to take to social media to share their reactions to tonight’s coverage.
Hayley Anderson and Hayley Anderson Screen Time TV Reporter
21:29, 27 Jun 2026
ITV’s Fifa World Cup 2026 host Laura Woods. (Image: ITV)
Football fans voiced the same complaint minutes into tonight’s World Cup match on ITV.
Ahead of this evening’s match against Panama, England was sent through to the last 32 following matches against Croatia and then Ghana earlier this week.
So England fans were on a high prior to tonight’s game, which kicks off at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey at 10pm UK time and 5pm US time.
However, just minutes into the coverage ahead of this evening’s match, viewers couldn’t stop themselves from flocking to X as two unexpected faces popped up on their screens.
Presenter Laura Woods welcomed none other than ITV legends Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly as they joined her at the channel’s stunning New York studio.
She asked about their opinion on tonight’s match, as well as about their own memories of previous World Cups but not everyone was happy to see the I’m A Celebrity hosts.
In fact, many commented that they were ‘switching off’ ITV’s coverage following their appearance.
“Ant and Dec FFS, I’ll switch back on at 9.55,” someone said on X (Twitter).
A second echoed: “Ant and Dec appeared. I switched to Five Live”, with someone else adding: “Ant & Dec being ‘interviewed’ during the World Cup may be the strangest thing I’ve seen during this whole event.”
Taking to X, a fan exclaimed: “Surely they could have got better than ant and dec for the World Cup, so annoying!”
Meanwhile, someone else asked: “No football people available tonight?”, as a fellow viewer sarcastically commented: “I was just saying to myself ‘We really don’t see Ant and Dec on the tellybox enough'”.
However, one fan defended the award-winning ITV duo, arguing: “Ant and Dec are much better than Neville and carragher.”
The last time England took centre stage was against Ghana which ended 0-0 at the Gillette Stadium in Boston.
Meanwhile, even though Scotland beat Haiti 1-0 in their first match of the World Cup 2026, they have since lost to both Morocco and Brazil.
The Fifa World Cup is available to watch on ITV and ITVX.
It seems “Love Island USA” producers pulled one bombshell aside for a chat, one that has led to her firing from the hit reality dating series.
Contestant Alannah Keyser’s time in Fiji has officially come to an end as she faces backlash for apparently using a racial slur in a video and social media comments that recently resurfaced on social media. “Love Island USA” streamer Peacock confirmed to The Times on Friday that Keyser, a film student at USC from Miami, will no longer appear on the series. She is the second contestant Peacock dismissed this season over a racial slur scandal.
Keyser made her “Love Island USA” debut last week as one of the six women hopeful to strike up a connection with the male contestants in Casa Amor, testing the men’s relationship with their partners back in the villa. Keyser appeared to pair up with contestant Zach Georgiou. In her debut episode, she informed Georgiou she had a brief romance with his older brother Charlie, a previous “Love Island USA” contestant.
“Love Island USA” parted ways with contestant Alannah Keyser after she used a racial slur in social media comments and posts.
(Ben Symons / Peacock)
She faced allegations of racism amid her first “Love Island USA” episode when a social media user surfaced screenshots of Keyser allegedly using the N-word on Snapchat and Instagram. A user on X (formerly Twitter) also published video of Keyser seemingly saying the slur as she sings along to Roddy Ricch’s “The Box” at a party. Some viewers — and other contestants on the series — also observed that Keyser interacted less with the Black men on the series in her debut episode.
A source familiar with “Love Island USA” production said the controversial video and posts only became public on social media after Keyser’s first episode and that the posts were not viewable during the series’ vetting process. Peacock confirmed Kesyer’s firing hours after the U.S. Sun reported her exit and minimized screen time. “Producers were disappointed and embarrassed that this has become another mishap,” a source told the outlet.
Keyser did not immediately respond to a request for comment via social media.
Keyser is the fourth “Love Island USA” contestant in two years to face scrutiny for her past use of racial slurs. Earlier this month, Peacock pulled beauty technician Vasana Montgomery from its Season 8 lineup before the season started. Last year, contestant Cierra Ortega prematurely left the villa as she faced criticism for her past social media posts that included a slur for Chinese (and, more generally, Asian) people. A month before that, contestant Yulissa Escobar was dismissed by the season’s second episode amid social media outcry over her use of the N-word.
Those three contestants have since publicly apologized for their posts.
Appearing as the amoral daughter of Joan Crawford at only age 17, Blyth’s short film career saw her work with many top stars of Hollywood’s classic era.
For 45 years, in his novels, short stories and essays, James Ellroy has been creating the definitive under-history of his Los Angeles hometown, mapping in his work the subterranean currents of power, corruption, sex and lies that have shaped the polity of the city. Ellroy’s latest is another compelling entry in his ongoing project.
“Red Sheet” is a multilayered American epic that blurs fact and fiction, a deep dive into anti-Communist paranoia, from the corridors of City Hall to the dank precincts of the LAPD. The novel also marks the return of Fred Otash, a real-life Hollywood fixer whom the author has featured in previous novels, including his last book, “The Enchanters.” I recently talked to Ellroy about Otash, L.A. in the ‘60s and L.A. today.
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✍️ Author Chat
Freddie Otash has been something of a twisted muse for you. In “Red Sheet,” Otash is an LAPD detective trying to smoke out Communist sleeper cells in Kennedy-era L.A. He was, in fact, a real person, a notorious Hollywood fixer. How did you first become aware of him?
I had seen a documentary about his specious role in the cover-up caper surrounding Marilyn Monroe’s death. I’d been hearing about him for years, and then I created the Jack Vincennes character who worked for scandal magazines in my book “L.A. Confidential,” played by the scurrilous Kevin Spacey in the vastly overrated movie of the same name.
Did you ever meet him?
Years ago I met a producer named James B. Harris, who produced all the old Stanley Kubrick movies and had optioned one of my early books called “Blood on the Moon.” I asked him if he knew Freddie Otash, and he said everyone in Hollywood knew Freddie Otash. I was planning my novel “American Tabloid” and so I arranged to meet him. He was unpleasant and charmless and way past his prime. I spent some time with him in Miami, where he was living in a place called the Jockey Club, and I had to listen to him talk about his many conquests of the world’s most beautiful and desirable women. I didn’t believe a word of it.
But he did have useful stories, I’m assuming.
Otash I used for the character Pete Bondurant in “American Tabloid.” We entered into a deal whereby I would pay him 10% of what Knopf was paying me in exchange for him keeping his mouth shut. He has become that valuable literary artifact: the great detective.
“Red Sheet: A Novel” by James Ellroy
(Knopf)
Your book deals with a piece of legislation called the Rumford Act that would tear down the city’s racist racial housing covenants in 1963, but the act in ’62 had enemies in high places, namely Mayor Sam Yorty and his power base. You were 14 in L.A. in 1962. Did you feel this racial tension?
I remember vividly how the world was changing. I knew there was de facto segregation in housing. I remember Nixon’s pathetic campaign for governor in 1962. But I remember racial barriers breaking down, particularly in school. Just talking with Black kids in school, because why wouldn’t you? And I had been this dumb, bigoted kid.
What’s interesting about the characters in your book is that their ideological alliances are quite fluid, depending on the circumstances. Communists are married to John Birchers, who may be, in fact, red-diaper babies, and so on.
People are endlessly complex. Going back to Freddie Otash again. He knew Tom Bradley in the ‘40s, when Bradley was a cop. And Freddie becomes a bag man for the civil rights movement, and the Rumford Act in particular. He’s about the most unlikely guy you would expect to support civil rights. I wanted to show [how] complex human beings and their beliefs can be, and this book is a primer on that.
You are so closely associated with Los Angeles, and you lived here for most of your life. Why do you live in Denver now?
Helen Knode is my all-time life partner, who is also my second ex-wife. Ten years ago, we decided to get back together, but she was living in Colorado. She came up with the idea of me getting a loft in her building, and we would have the keys to each other’s places, and that’s why I did it. I like it in Denver, though it’s quite hot at the moment.
Do you miss L.A? What are you feeling about the city now?
I was just there on my book tour. I feel like it’s a complete dump. It’s just totally run-down. When I got off the airplane, I noticed a smog layer, so smog is back. I saw many young, odd-looking, overly adorned young people. I don’t know. … It’s a kid’s town now, to a certain extent.
This Q&A was edited for length and clarity.
📰 The Week(s) in Books
Country music performer Kenny Chesney sat down with Holly Gleason, the co-author of his new memoir, to talk about writing the book.
(Jill Trunnell)
Greg Sarris is the chairman of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria in Sonoma County. He’s also an acclaimed novelist whose his first book in 28 years, “The Last Human Bear,” is loosely based on the life and teachings of Pomo spiritual leader Mabel McKay, a constant lodestar for Sarris. “An American Indian woman is as richly complicated as anybody else. I wanted to show this rich and complicated character who’s negotiated a history that she’s showing you,” Sarris tells Maddie Connors.
In “Daughters of the Sun and Moon,” author Lisa See excavates the events surrounding the Chinese Massacre of 1871. In doing so, she also digs into her own Chinese heritage in L.A. “My great-grandfather’s fourth wife was 16 when he brought her here, and she was never let out,” See tells Emily St. Martin. “My mom used to say these women would all get together, and she used to describe it as birds twittering together, because they actually had this opportunity to be with each other, but on really very rare occasions.”
Fear not, literary Cassandras: Authors can still generate online heat, thanks to BookTok and other social media outlets. So much so that more books are being adapted into streaming content than ever before. “With the advent of BookTok, it allows you to have so much social chatter around these authors,” producer Bryan Unkeless tells Gary Goldstein. “They’re becoming new rock stars, in a way.”
Finally, Kenny Chesney sat down with Holly Gleason to discuss their collaboration on “Heart Life Music,” Chesney’s new memoir. “I didn’t know if there was a story there,” the country megastar tells Gleason. “Over time you wore me down, to make me pause and … reflect.”
📖 Bookstore Faves
The interior of Counterpoint Records & Books.
(David Jones)
In a city that has so often seen its old-school retail businesses turned into nail salons and real estate offices, Counterpoint Records & Books remains an outlier. Originally established in 1979 by John and Susan Polifronio, the store on Franklin Avenue has remained, even as many of its nearby store-mates have shuttered, offering a well-curated selection of secondhand books and records from every conceivable genre. I chatted with David Jones, who is one of the owners of the Franklin Avenue store, about Counterpoint’s enduring success.
Counterpoint is an Eastside institution, but businesses along your strip on Franklin have gone under while you have survived. What is the secret to your longevity?
Firstly, we are lucky enough to own the building we do business in, which has given us a lot of freedom to be able to pursue doing business our way. That didn’t happen until we were in business for almost 20 years, but now in our 47th year we feel lucky to be able to continue to provide a physical, in-person shopping experience. I think our success is tied to this. People are looking for an experience away from their screens, and I think we provide that without being anachronistic or nostalgic by keeping up with and stocking contemporary music, digital media and all types of books.
Is your clientele mostly local? I’m guessing it’s a multigenerational clientele, given the store’s long history.
We definitely have a younger demographic these days, but we have a very intergenerational staff, and I think that attracts an all ages clientele. We meet folks daily from all over the world as a destination that people return to and tell their friends about. I think word-of-mouth is our greatest form of outreach. People say we feel special to them, as if they’ve stumbled onto a secret by shopping here. It’s something I love and am very proud of.
How have books maintained their staying power despite the countless distractions of daily life?
I think of it as one of life’s greatest luxuries. To be honest, I never thought too much about the staying power of books until the pandemic. During that time, people would come in and thank us for being open and a place they could come to escape what was happening. It was a real turning point for me. I started to think more about the importance of what we do and how much of an effect it has on people. I never took what we do for granted, but it gave me a sense of urgency that I didn’t quite have before.
Adapted from Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa’s 1958 novel of the same name, The Leopard is a lavish period drama set in 19th century Sicily, reports the Express.
The six-part Italian series charts the fortunes of the Prince of Salina and his aristocratic family during a turbulent era of great change.
The Leopard unfolds against the backdrop of the Risorgimento, or the unification of Italy, as various states across the Italian peninsula were brought together to form the Kingdom of Italy.
During this momentous period, widespread political and social upheaval, along with rebellions and revolutions, preceded the formation of the Kingdom of Italy.
A synopsis of the show from Netflix reads: “Based on what many consider to be one of the greatest Italian novels of all time, The Leopard is a dazzlingly sensuous epic, set against the backdrop of revolution in 1860s Sicily.
“At its heart is Don Fabrizio Corbera, the Prince of Salina, who leads a life surrounded by beauty and privilege. But as Italy moves towards unification and the old aristocratic order is threatened, he realizes that his family’s future is in jeopardy.
“New allegiances must be made, each one a threat to his principles. Eventually Don Fabrizio is faced with an impossible choice.
“He has the power to engineer a marriage, between the rich and beautiful Angelica and his nephew Tancredi, that could secure his family’s legacy, but doing so he would break his favorite daughter, Concetta’s heart.
“The series will be a modern exploration of timeless themes – power, love, and the cost of progress.”
The Leopard boasts an outstanding ensemble cast, including Everybody Loves Diamonds star Kim Rossi Stuart as Don Fabrizio Corbera, Prince of Salina, Benedetta Porcaroli from Netflix’s Baby as Concetta Corbera di Salina, Love & Gelato’s Saul Nanni as Tancredi Falconeri, and The Beautiful Summer star Deva Cassel as Angelica Sedara.
Further cast members include Astrid Meloni, Paolo Calabresi, Gaetano Bruno, Francesco Di Leva, Alessandro Sperduti, Jozef Gjura, and Romano Reggiani.
One viewer posted in their 10/10 review: “Cinematography is absolutely stunning. What a beautiful period piece ; costumes magical, This is a stunningly visually crafted masterpiece of a series.”
A second glowing review proclaimed it a “masterpiece”, with the critic stating: “This is an absolute must-see series! It could have actually been a cinema film, this is the perfection of its film making. An epic construction of story telling, acting, costumes, scenery and music offers an utter delight to watch.”
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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.
A third top-rated review described it as an “absolute masterpiece”, elaborating: “The journey is beautiful, poignant, and brutally honest.”
Yet another awarded it 10/10 and celebrated it as a “masterpiece”, writing: “I wish there were MORE series like this: based on literature, ravishingly beautiful and (99%) aesthetically accurate.”
They went on to draw a comparison with Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes’ other notable series, remarking: “The Gilded Age could learn a lesson from “The Leopard’s” creative team.”
The Leopard is available to stream on Netflix now.
Guests on Channel 4 programme Four in a Bed were horrified by what they found.
The guests were less than impressed (Image: Channel 4)
Welsh Four in a Bed contestants have voiced their frustration after receiving less than the full amount on the Channel 4 show after their guests were left horrified.
The married pair had hoped to offer their guests a taste of vintage Americana at their distinctive property, but faced criticism over cleanliness concerns.
Shortly after settling in for the night, Newquay hotel owners Oleg and Emma, Devon glampsite owners Mandy and Elly, and Devon country pub owners Steve and Mandy raised their objections.
They uncovered what appeared to be mould in the fridge, “minging” dirt, dead flies behind the sink, and even “dog hair in the fridge”. Guests also found dust and water along the windowsills, while the toilets had been left uncleaned, reports Wales Online.
Consequently, Stuart and Amy received poor scores for the cleanliness of Tin Can Retreat, prompting him to remark: “Dagger to the heart, that is.”
On payment day, Stuart and Amy faced their critics, and discovered they had been underpaid by all three other teams.
They first heard from Mandy and Elly, who complained about a smell from the diesel heater, leaving them “complaining of a headache and feeling nauseous”.
Stuart insisted the accommodation had been fitted with a carbon monoxide detector, defending: “I just have to disagree with you… I’m not wrong.”
They then heard from Steve and Mandy, after receiving a “massively disappointing” score of four for cleanliness from them.
“We did find a lot of uncleanliness, we opened up the fridge and there was lots of mould in the seal, and the window sills had a lot of dirt and mould in them,” Mandy explained. “In our bedroom, there was water, the whole place felt quite grubby.”
Emma stepped in to add: “Mandy said grubby but to me it was a little bit beyond that, it was not of a standard that I would be comfortable to ever charge people.”
She went on: “I lifted the lid on the toilet seat and there was lots of crusty residue, it’s not something that’s just been missed. There was actual dirt in lots and lots of places.”
Mother-daughter duo Mandy and Elly added: “For us unfortunately, much the same. There was quite a lot of dog hair left around, our fridge was mouldy in the seals and the side.”
Stuart replied: “That’s obviously very difficult for us to hear and we are quite shocked by it. We’re not a new business, we’ve been operating for over two years and this is new news coming to light. We need to go back and work out where it’s going wrong. We needed that reality check on the cleanliness.”
He later added to the camera: “This afternoon for us was hard to take but we’re going to go away now, collate all those comments and we’ll absolutely be implementing fixes for everything that was found.”
The couple discovered they had been underpaid a total of £74 by the three teams, due to the issues raised on payment day.
And though they accepted all three payments, they admitted the money they received from Steve and Mandy was “harsh”.
“We thought the £50 underpayment from Mandy and Steve was harsh,” Stuart admitted. “We offer great value for money, although there were some cleanliness issues, I don’t think they found anything major.”
Mandy meanwhile admitted she knew the result would come as a “shock” but insisted it was “justified”.
After the feedback, and a result which saw Stuart and Amy’s Tin Can Retreat come in last place, Stuart shared: “We’re gutted we came in fourth position, I think we knew it was coming.
“We’ve obviously got some issues we need to immediately address which we will do, and then let’s see what the future holds, maybe some more sites.”
