ROCK legend Jon Bon Jovi is the next big name star to join CBeebies Bedtime Story slot.
And he uses his stint to share a loving message about his new granddaughter.
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Jon Bon Jovi is the next big name star to join CBeebies Bedtime Story slotCredit: BBC/Guy LevyThe rock legend uses his stint to share a loving message about his new granddaughterCredit: BBC/Guy Levy
The Bon Jovi singer said: “Some of my favourite things in life are music and being a grandad – or as I like to say,‘papa’ – and going on adventures.
“When my grandchildren are a little older, I can’t wait to take them on amazing adventures.
“Music has played a part in all of my kids’ childhoods and I’m looking forward to watching my children become parents and seeing our grandchildren become part of our lives.
“It’s not about what I’m going to teach my grandchildren, but what they’re going to teach me!”
The TV storytelling gig has welcomed everyone from Harry Styles to Idris Elba to the bedtime armchair.
Jon has chosen to read his friend Paul McCartney’s book Hey Grandude! tomorrow night (Friday 7 November) at 6.50pm on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer.
He added: “I picked Hey Grandude! because it’s written by the great Paul McCartney, singer, songwriter, storyteller.
“He’s someone I’ve always admired and looked up to, not just for his music but for his parenting and grandparenting skills. He’s a dear friend and someone we all admire.”
Jon will also feature in an episode of the CBeebies Parenting Helpline podcast, out November 27 on the CBeebies Parenting website and BBC Sounds.
He will pose a question about when (and when not) to give parenting advice to your own children.
BELOVED actor Tchéky Karyo has died of cancer at the age of 72.
Karyo was best known for his starring role in the film Nikita, James Bond hit GoldenEye and in the popular BBC series The Missing.
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French actor Tchéky Karyo has died of cancer at the age of 72Credit: AFPKaryo was best known for his stand out performance as Julien Baptiste in the popular TV series The MissingCredit: PA:Press Association
His passing was announced by his wife, actress Valérie Keruzoré, and their two children.
They released a heartbreaking statement saying the French film star had “succumbed to cancer this Friday, October 31”.
At the time, the beloved actor said about the reprisal of the role: “I didn’t expect it, but it’s flattering. This has made me feel young again.”
The creators of Baptise had even teased another season of the mystery thriller earlier this summer.
Earlier on his career Karyo found global success on several top projects.
He played the handler Bob in Luc Besson’s assassin film Nikita in 1990.
Other major roles included Ridley Scott’s historical epic 1492: Conquest of Paradise and the James Bond film GoldenEye.
Born in Istanbul, Turkey, Kayro started out in French cinema in the 1980s.
His first major film role came in crime thriller La Balance in 1982.
His stellar performance even earned him a nomination for the César Award for Best Male Revelation.
One of his most recent roles came in 2023 when he joined forces with the BBC once again for the comedy thriller, Boat Story.
Kayro had 140 roles across his decorated career in both film and TV.
He was also a singer songwriter with two albums being released in 2006 and 2013.
One of his most recent roles came in 2023 when he joined forces with the BBC once again for the comedy thriller, Boat StoryCredit: PAKaryo poses during a photoshoot as part of the 54th Monte-Carlo Television Festival in MonacoCredit: AFP
FORMER Corrie actress Michelle Keegan is being courted for her first Hollywood film role.
US screen star Reese Witherspoon is keen for the 38-year-old to play the lead in a big-budget movie adaptation of her new novel.
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Michelle Keegan is being courted for her first Hollywood film roleCredit: GettyHollywood A-lister Reese Witherspoon is keen for Michelle to play the lead in her upcoming filmCredit: Refer to sourceEx-soap star Michelle became a global success thanks to mystery drama Fool Me OnceCredit: Getty
Oscar-winner Reese, 49, wrote crime thriller Gone Before Goodbye with American author Harlan Coben, who was behind Michelle’s Netflix hit show Fool Me Once.
Harlan introduced the women to each other at the launch of the book at the London Literature Festival, held at the capital’s Festival Hall last weekend.
A source said: “Harlan has been singing Michelle’s praises to Reese and she was keen to meet her. They got on really well and it was clear Reese was really taken with Michelle.
“The plan is to turn the book into a film and Michelle is their first choice to take on the role of the lead character, Maggie McCabe.
“She is a combat surgeon and Michelle previously played an Army medic in Our Girl on the BBC, so it’s a role they know she could take on with style.
“It’s early days but Harlan and Reese think Michelle is tailor-made for this role and would love her to come on board when the time is right.”
Ex-soap star Michelle became a global success after the mystery drama Fool Me Once was released last year.
The series became one of Netflix’s most watched TV shows of 2024 — with more than 107 million people streaming it worldwide in the first 90 days.
Best-selling author Harlan said of his leading lady: “I think what Michelle has, besides tremendous talent and all the other stuff, is a genuine authenticity.
“I think the audience, loves her, people want to follow her life, because they sense that there’s a kindness and a gentleness.
“And that’s really her, she’s truly authentic.”
Speaking last year, 63-year-old Harlan insisted he would be keen to work with her again and reckoned: “If we could get Michelle, we’d love to get Michelle.”
Fans of Michelle, from Stockport — who has a daughter with Heart FM DJ husband Mark Wright — will next see her on screen in ITV crime drama The Blame.
She plays Detective Inspector Emma Crane in the six-parter, which is an adaptation of Charlotte Langley’s 2023 debut novel of the same name.
Michelle is also known for her roles in the Sky One comedy drama Brassic and BBC drama Ten Pound Poms, about Brits who migrated to Australia in the 1950s.
Michelle is also known for her role in the Sky One comedy drama BrassicCredit: Sky UK LimitedReese wrote crime thriller Gone Before Goodbye with American author Harlan Coben
Hard-of-hearing BBC viewers were baffled as Pulp belted out Spike IslandCredit: InstagramThe song was wrongly subtitled with lines from Agatha Christie’s Miss MarpleCredit: Alamy
Hard-of-hearing viewers were baffled as the frontman belted out Spike Island at the Mercury Prize awards ceremony on Thursday night.
Subtitles as he prowled the stage included, “Oooh then… Then the secretary girl came up with Heather Babcock”.
He also appeared to sing, “Dr Haydock, I would be very distressed if I thought you believed”, as well as “On and on she went” and “Honestly, she did go on so!”
Jarvis, 62, later posted snaps online, and wrote: “It appears our performance was accompanied by…… the subtitles to an episode of Miss Marple!”
Subtitles as he prowled the stage included, ‘Oooh then… Then the secretary girl came up with Heather Babcock’Credit: InstagramSinger Jarvis Cocker also appeared to sing, ‘Dr Haydock, I would be very distressed if I thought you believed’Credit: InstagramFans lapped it up, with some saying they could be real Pulp lyricsCredit: Instagram
A BBC star’s nepo daughter has revealed her addiction battle on her new single.
The singer has opened up for the first time about struggling with addiction, ADHD andsubstance abuse.
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A BBC star’s nepo daughter has revealed he addiction battle on a new singleCredit: instagramLine of Duty star Adrian Dunbar’s daughter, Madeleine Dunbar, 37, whose artist’s name is Minx has explored her past in her new music video.Credit: instagram
Line of Duty starAdrian Dunbar‘s daughter, Madeleine Dunbar, 37, whose artist’s name is Minx has explored her past in her new music video.
The artist took to Instagram with an image of herself spread across a lime satin bedspread with beer cans rolled into her hair as curlers
In the image she is surrounded by lines of fake white powder, pill packets and bottles.
The artist said: “My name is Madeline Dunbar, My artist name is Minx.
“Messy, Messy ADHD Queen and I am writing songs about it.
The camera then flips to Madeline’s cat and she jokes: “Oh that’s my cat Tony. I think he thinks I’m relapsing.
“Don’t worry baby boy we are not going back there. That is just my ADHD medication crushed up on a golden plate.”
Madeline then bursts into laughter and adds: “Anyways if any of this stuff resonates with you in the right place.
“I’m about to release a track called Dopamine on the 1st November.
“I think you’re gonna f**k with it.”
The singer describes her music as “high-energy pop rap with hip hop, house and Latin influences”, drawing inspiration from Madonna, Lady Gaga, Janelle Monae and Rosalia.
Lyrics from the song include: “And every time I think that I’m in control / You serve another cocktail of chemicals / And it’s nice, but I wonder”
In an earlier post the singer wrote: “Fully clean and sober writing songs about addiction is cathartic but sitting in front of my favourite vices (albeit fake substitutes) was a bit triggering.
“It also made me feel a great sadness for the person I once was and the people still suffering.
“This track is a foray into the desperation felt by anyone suffering with adhd or addiction or like me, both!
“The frenzied need to feel better to feel different to feel normal.
“The futile necessity of instant gratification because that low dopamine is REAL and makes you feel so f***ing empty and unenthused.
“If you or a loved one are struggling speak out and seek help. It can be done, we do recover.”
Adrian is wed to his Australian actress wife Anna Nygh, after they got married in 1986 – as well as Madeline he also has a stepson with Anna.
Madeline has said her music is influenced by Madonna and Lady GagaCredit: instagramThe singer has opened up for the first time about her addictions and ADHDCredit: instagramHer father is best known for his role as Superintendent Ted Hastings, the head of an anti-corruption squad in Line of DutyCredit: PA
EAGLE-EYED Strictly fans have been left baffled after spotting a live show shake up.
Tonight’s show was the Musicals Week special with Wicked star Cynthia Erivo acting as a guest mentor.
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Eagle-eyed Strictly fans have been left baffled after spotting a live show shake up
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Karen Carney was supposed to perform fourth during Musicals WeekCredit: PA
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The running order was shared online ahead of the show
Before the show started, pro dancer Julian Caillon shared a blurry picture of the running order.
But as the show got underway, Strictly viewers noticed that Karen Carney was moved from the fourth slot in the line up.
The former footballer was dancing a Cha Cha Cha to She’s a Lady from Miss Congeniality with her pro partner Carlos Gu.
She was supposed to perform after YouTube star George Clarke, but he was followed by Drag Race star La Voix instead.
The eagle-eyed viewers immediately took to X to question the change, with one writing: “I wonder why they changed order with Karen and Carlos and they weren’t in Clauditorium.
“Maybe some wardrobe problem.”
Another added: “why did we skip karen and carlos in the running order.”
In the end, Karen and Carlos performed seventh and scored 25 points.
STRICTLY viewers have spotted a last minute wardrobe change as George Clarke danced his first Couple’s Choice – but did you see it?
Podcaster and social media personalityGeorge, 25, is competing on the show alongside new pro partner,Alexis Warr, 25.
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Strictly viewers have spotted a last minute wardrobe change as George Clarke danced his first Couple’s Choice – but did you see it?
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Viewers noticed that he had removed his blue wig before taking to the dance floorCredit: x/@Imogen_Alanah
George and Alexis took the floor tonight with their couple’s choice accompanied by Soda Pop from K-Pop Demon Hunters.
The lively hip-hop dance thrilled the audience but viewers spotted a last minute costume change.
Taking to social media one wrote: “Thank GOD the wig changed.”
Another added: “WHYD THEY GET RID OF THE WIG.”
While a third exclaimed: “Not George taking that ugly blue wig off.”
“The fact he said NO WIG for the show,” added another.
Wicked actress Cynthia Erivo praised the dancers and declared: “I am so proud of you because earlier I felt you were not taking yourself as seriously as you could.”
Shirley Ballas agreed and said: “You were flying like an angel.”
However, Anton Du Bekestated: “You came alive…but I thought it lacked a bit of edge.”
Strictly Come Dancing fans brand huge judge shake-up ‘awkward’ as they beg BBC to make last-minute decision
But Oti Mabuse added: “You’re doing a beautiful job and keep going.”
When the scores came in George and Alexis received 6 points from Criag, 8 from Oti, 9 from Shirley and 8 from Anton giving them a respectable total of 31 points.
Cheers rose from the audience and the adorable pair looked very happy with their scores.
Cynthia has spent the week working with the celebrities and their partners to help them with their performance and offering up her advice during their training.
However, when the live show kicked off, hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman confirmed that despite the huge hype surrounding Cynthia being on the panel, the actress was barred from scoring the couples.
As she wasn’t allowed a paddle to mark the pairs, Cynthia found herself sitting awkwardly among the judging panel as the other four judges offered up their scores.
It left fans at home begging the BBC to let Cynthia have a paddle last-minute after branding her inclusion on the panel “awkward”.
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The judges were conflicted about the standard of the dance
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However, the couple were very happy with the judges overall score of 31 points
VICKY Pattison’s next Strictly performance is hanging in the balance, as she revealed she has been battling a “mystery bug”, hours before the next live show.
Former Geordie Shore star Vicky, 37, has revealed she has been battling an illness this week whilst trying to rehearse for tomorrow night’s show.
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Vicky Pattison revealed she is battling a ‘mystery bug’Credit: Instagram
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The star shared the news on Instagram todayCredit: Instagram
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Vicky has been wowing on the Strictly dance floorCredit: Instagram
Vicky, who is partnered on this series with pro Kai Widdrington, took to Instagram to reveal her plight.
The star shared two pics of herself – one looking glam, the other looking a bit exhausted.
Vicky wrote next to the snaps: “Can we just take a moment for my glam team, stylist and the strictly angels who helped turn me from this feral little rat who looks like they live under a bridge and demands riddles to cross into THIS???!!
“Lads it’s been a WEEK… strictly rehearsals, mystery bug, VT’s, Erc away, my clothing collection launch… and I just don’t want anyone thinking I look too glam to give a damn all the time..
“I just thought it was important to show you all both sides of the coin… she LOVES to be a glam girly don’t get me wrong but there’s a hell of a lot of the time I look more like an exhausted little troll.”
The reality star wowed on the dancefloor last weekend, but was shown looking very anxious before she performed.
Vicky told us: “Everybody knows I’m super nervous about this entire process, I’m just a gobby girl from the north east doing her best.
“The dancing, the being out my comfort zone, learning something new, being judged by the public is also terrifying.
“But the one element that made me feel really excited and I had no reservations about at all was definitely being Strictlyfied.
Vicky Pattison breaks down in tears as she reveals secret battle ahead of Strictly Come Dancing debut
“I’m sorry but the tan, the hair, the glam! I’ve been preparing for this for like 25 years.
“Like, I didn’t even have to change my fake tan routine at all — this girl was ready.”
Vicky also admitted that people constantly underestimate her and in the 14 years since she shot to fame on MTV series Geordie Shore, has always been a bit of an underdog.
It was something the popular star also faced when she was a contestant on ITV’s I’m a Celebrity a decade ago.
She said: “Winning the jungle was the best moment of my life, maybe tied with the day that I got married to Ercan.
“Everybody just wanted us out initially. Obviously I was in there and in me bubble and I’m actually really grateful for that, you know.
“But I learned afterwards everyone was like: ‘Get her out. We don’t want her in here. Reality TV scum blah, blah, blah.’
CELEBRITY Traitors fans have been left in disbelief, as Alan Carr gave away a huge clue that he’s a traitor.
The first ever all star edition of the BBC programme kicked off last night as fans saw Claudia Winkleman chose her THREE celebrity traitors to play the game.
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Celebrity Traitors fans have been left in disbelief, as Alan Carr gave away a huge clue that he’s a traitorCredit: BBC
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Viewers of the show have had their doubts about Alan’s ability as a traitorCredit: BBC
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Jonathan said he might have to have a word with Alan after the winkCredit: BBC
Comedian Alan alongside TV presenter Jonathan Ross and singer and Brit nominee Cat Burns were chosen to be the devilish three to cause mayhem in the game.
This sentiment was highlighted even more during Thursday evening’s episode, as Alan winked at Jonathan after committing the first murder.
After wondering around in a mild panic, he eventually headed into the kitchen with his friend Paloma Faith and actress Ruth Codd.
Read More on Celeb Traitors
He committed the deadly act before heading down to the fire outside with other celebrities and winking at Jonathan to let him know he had fulfilled the brief.
He also said in another very telling move: “It’s done,” while subtly trying to let Jonathan know that he’d committed the murder.
Fans took to X to share their shock at Alan’s wink and ‘it’s done’ statement.
One person penned: “Oh wow, Alan has to be the worst traitor to have ever existed.”
Another questioned: “Did he really just wink at Jonathan?” while a third said: “Absolutely howling. As if Alan just winked at Jonathan in front of everyone.”
Celebrity Traitors fans left shocked by Alan Carr’s first victim as he commits murder in plain sight
A fourth person penned: “Oh Alan, talk about making it obvious.”
And someone else quipped: “I’m in disbelief at Alan as a traitor so far. He’s making Linda look like James Bond.”
Later in the turret, Jonathan and Cat asked him who he had chosen, and Alan revealed he had been forced to pick his friend Paloma.
The Traitors viewers were shocked that Alan had betrayed his pal, with one writing on X: “Noooooo Alan! Not Paloma!”
Another added: “Paloma girl. You was GOT.”
A third commented: “I cannot believe Paloma Faith is going to be dead by the end of the day…”
After committing the murder, all the celebrities turned up to breakfast, before Claudia arrived and told them to get ready for a funeral.
The celebrities than joined the procession before arriving at three coffins.
They were then given clues to work out which three celebrities the Traitors had put in the coffins.
It ended up being Lucy Beaumont, Paloma and Niko Omilana.
Claudia then walked the line and dramatically closed the lid on Paloma, leaving the remaining celebrities absolutely gobsmacked.
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Paloma Faith became the show’s first victimCredit: BBC
DAME PATRICIA ROUTLEDGE created a monster, and we loved her for it.
The actress, who has died aged 96, turned Hyacinth Bucket – pronounced “Bouquet” – into one of the most memorable TV characters of all time.
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Dame Patricia Routledge with Keeping Up Appearances co-star Clive SwiftCredit: Shutterstock
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The actress passed away aged 96Credit: Alamy
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The star portrayed one of the most memorable TV characters of all timeCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
Decades on from Nineties sitcom Keeping Up Appearances the pearl-wearing snob, with her candlelight suppers and white slimline telephone, is still as embedded in the national psyche as a character from Charles Dickens.
In Patricia’s own words: “She was grotesque.”
But the actress, like viewers, could not help but admire her: “She was always getting it wrong and slipping on the banana skin, and then coming back and flying the flag.”
By the time the sitcom first hit screens, Patricia had been acting for nearly 40 years, in roles from Coronation Street to Broadway musicals, with co-stars from Sidney Poitier to Jerry Lewis.
She was also a favourite of writer Alan Bennett, who wrote his first great TV monologue especially for her in 1982.
Its success led to the landmark series Talking Heads, in which she also starred.
Alan said in 1998: “She has an enormous amount of zest and brio and she puts a lot of air into the language, so it lifts dialogue which might otherwise seem quite banal.”
After leaving Keeping Up Appearances, Patricia had a second smash-hit with Hetty Wainthropp Investigates, and in 1996 was voted the nation’s favourite actress of all time.
But Patricia managed to keep her private life out of the spotlight.
She never married or had children, and for years refused to discuss her relationships except to say: “I do know what it is to have loved and suffered.”
Only Fools & Horses legend Patrick Murray had died aged 68
Eventually, she revealed she had had three great love affairs, including one with a married man, which tormented her as a devout Christian.
She also admitted: “I didn’t make a decision not to be married and not to be a mother -– life just turned out like that because my involvement with acting was so total.
“Now I think it’s a pity I didn’t have children. But I’m not sure you can have a career and a family and do both satisfactorily. I always knew, deep down, that everything has a cost.”
But whenever she was asked how to become a success, she had the same answer: “I say, I can give you a tip. It’s called risk. And if you’re prepared to risk everything, then you can do anything.”
The icon as Hyacinth BucketCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
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The 90’s sitcom ran for five yearsCredit: Alamy
Katherine Patricia Routledge was born on February 17, 1929, in Birkenhead, Wirral, and grew up in a house behind father Isaac’s “high-class gentlemen’s outfitters” shop.
The family was theatre-mad and Patricia acted in school plays but never saw it as her future: “I always intended to be a go-ahead headmistress in a red sports car who had romances all over Europe in the holidays.”
With that in mind, she studied English at the University of Liverpool but spent so much time in the student drama club that older brother Graham urged her to audition for the Liverpool Playhouse.
She said: “He was the one who said, ‘That’s what you ought to do.’” In 1952, aged 23, she made her professional debut with the company as Hippolyta in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Just two years later she was in the West End, showing off her roof-raising contralto singing voice in musical comedy The Duenna.
By early 1961 she was so well known on stage stage that the makers of Coronation Street, which had begun a couple of months earlier, pounced: “They created a character for me – Sylvia Snape. She had a little cafe.”
Their idea was for the no-nonsense proprietor to become one of the cobbles’ stalwarts, but after just three episodes Patricia quit.
She recalled: “I just knew inside that I needed to have other adventures.”
That included belting out satirical songs on That Was The Week It Was, as well as her big-screen debut in 1967’s To Sir with Love.
She played a teacher who offers support to Sidney Poitier’s character, and years later recalled the actor’s generosity: “I just had one scene alone with him, and he gave it to me.”
Patricia had less happy memories of working with Jerry Lewis in 1968’s Don’t Raise the Bridge, Lower the River: “An absolute nightmare. And I’m afraid I didn’t find him funny at all.”
BROADWAY DEBUT
That year Patricia also took Broadway by storm, with the New York Times critic describing her performance in Darling of the Day as “the most spectacular, most scrumptious, most embraceable musical comedy debut since Beatrice Lillie and Gertrude Lawrence came to the country.”
It landed her a Tony Award, presented by Groucho Marx.
Back at home, Alan Bennett had been a long-time fan and so when he wrote his first ground-breaking TV monologue, he wrote it for her.
Initially, Patricia turned him down: the piece was 47 minutes of just one character speaking directly to the camera.
Patricia recalled: “I said it wouldn’t work – people would switch off in their thousands.”
But Alan told her: “If you don’t do it, nobody will. I’ve written it for you.”
A Woman of No Importance screened on BBC2 in November 1982, with Patricia as Miss Schofield, who bubbled away about office gossip and the goings on at a hospital where, it slowly dawned on viewers, she was dying.
It was a sensation, and won Patricia a British Press Guild award for best actress. She later said of the writer: “He turns cliche into poetry. “He sees a world in a grain of sand – the sympathy, the humanity.”
Its success led to 1988’s beloved Talking Heads series of six monologues, with Patricia in A Lady of Letters as a lonely busybody who finally finds friendship when she is sent to prison.
She said: “It’s about salvation, about learning to love at a tremendous cost. Oh, it was a joyous thing to do.”
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Dame Patricia received a Tony Award for her stage performancesCredit: Getty – Contributor
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The legend was awarded and MBE in 2004Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
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The icon was born on February 17, 1929 in Tranmere in Birkenhead, CheshireCredit: Rex Features
A second series was made in 1998, with Patricia’s monologue this time about a shop assistant who ends up in the thrall of her chiropodist.
In 2004 she admitted she found that part “very kinky”: “I didn’t really enjoy it. I didn’t understand it, deep down.”
Alan said later: “Patricia has a very strong moral streak and very strong views, and I think if a part doesn’t conform with those she’s very dubious about it.”
In between all this, she showed off her comedy brilliance again in Victoria Wood’s series As Seen on TV, playing an overconfident recurring character called Kitty who came out with lines like: “I’m something of a celebrity having walked the entire length of the Pennine Way in slingbacks, to publicise mental health.”
But when sitcom writer Roy Clarke, already famous for Last of the Summer Wine, presented the BBC with scripts for a new series about a suburban social climber, he did not have a lead actress in mind.
He recalled in 2004: “People do assume I must have written Keeping Up Appearances for Patricia Routledge, but I didn’t.”
It was director and producer Harold Snoad who Roy credited for “that perfect bit of casting”.
Harold said: “I wanted the character of Hyacinth to be a sort of stately galleon. I didn’t want somebody lightweight, either in size or vocal terms.”
Patricia said of the character: “She leapt from the page.”
GLOBAL HIT
The first series began on BBC1 in October 1990; soon 13million people a week were tuning in, including superfan the Queen Mum.
Nobody could have delivered lines like her (“I hope that’s a first-class stamp. I object to having second-class stamps thrust through my letterbox”) but she also brought a bursting energy to the role that was unmatchable.
The late Clive Swift, who played Hyacinth’s long-suffering husband Richard, said in 1998: “I can’t think of an another actress who could have brought the physical clowning to the part, which isn’t there particularly in the script.”
It was a global hit, but in 1995 after five series Patricia announced she would not do any more, despite the BBC’s pleas: “There were other adventures to have.”
They included, at the time, a new relationship.
Speaking to The Sun in 1996 she opened up about her private life for the first time, admitting: “A corner of my heart is taken. I’ve got a sneaking feeling that I might have almost everything in the end.
“He’s someone I’ve known for years and years. He’s in theatrical management but we hadn’t seen each other for a long time and then we met again.
“Life is full of the most wonderful surprises.”
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In 2017 she was made a dame for services to the theatre and charityCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
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Patricia was once voted Britain’s favourite actressCredit: Alamy
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Patricia as Laura Partridge, during a photocall for the production of 1950s comedy ‘The Solid Gold Cadillac’ at The Garrick TheatreCredit: PA:Press Association
Patricia moved to Chichester, West Sussex, in 1999 to be closer to this new love, whose identity was never revealed, and lived there for the rest of her life.
She also told The Sun: “I had my heart broken when I was young. It was a grand passion, but it was complicated because he was married and, of course, I felt very guilty.
“I would gladly have lived with him and I wanted his children. But I couldn’t do it because I thought it would kill my parents.”
Her second great passion came in the late Eighties, when she least expected it: “Out of the blue this enchanting person appeared.
“He was a theatre director – a very funny and delightful man. But he had a heart condition, which I didn’t know about for a while.
“One day I went to rehearsal and was told he’d died in the night. This dear man was no more. I was just so hurt, so sore with the pain of loss.”
‘ILLUMINATING LIFE’
Work was always a refuge. In 1996 she was back on screen in Hetty Wainthropp Investigates as pensioner-turned-crime fighter, who was a down-to-earth, proud working-class opposite of Hyacinth.
Patricia later said of that character: “I loved her.”
It was another hit and the actress never forgave the BBC for axing the programme after four series without telling the cast: “No word ever came – how rude.”
Hetty was her last major TV role; afterwards she focused on theatre. Her final role was in Oscar Wilde’s play An Ideal Husband in 2014 in her adopted hometown of Chichester, where she worshipped at the cathedral each week.
In 2017 she was made a dame for services to the theatre and charity.
On getting the news, she said: “I started to laugh, and then I started to cry. It was extraordinary.”
But Patricia believed her profession was important.
She once said: “It sounds a bit high-faluting, but I think acting is the physicalisation of the imagination.
“If the word becomes flesh, then you are illuminating life for other people.”
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Patricia never married and leaves behind no childrenCredit: Shutterstock
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Mary Millar, Patricia and Judy CornwellCredit: Getty
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She surprised diners after being spotted at a restaurant more than 30 years after her hit show endedCredit: michaelnewtonyoung / instagram
Channel 4 is making a documentary on the Dunblane massacre to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the tragedy next yearCredit: Tom Kidd
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The BBC has also announced it will be doing its own programme, which will also mark three decades since 16 pupils and a teacher were killed by a gunman at the schoolCredit: Derek Ironside
But I can reveal the Channel 4 one will have special meaning for its creators.
A TV insider said: “It is being made by production company Candour whose founder, Anna Hall, grew up in the Scottish town that was hit by the tragedy on March 13, 1996.
“So it will be imbued with real poignancy and, of course, it will be handled with extreme sensitivity.”
Chief Creative Officer Anna’s first ever film was about the tragedy — Dunblane: Remembering our Children premiered on ITV on the first anniversary of the shootings in 1997.
The programme was nominated for numerous awards including the RTS Best Single Documentary, an Emmy and a Prix Italia.
Now she and the rest of the Candour team — who also made the recent C4 documentary about the death of Jay Slater — are taking another look at the events of that dark day.
The massacre, which also left 15 people injured, remains the deadliest mass shooting in British history and led to a change in the law prohibiting the possession of most handguns in the UK.
Shooting
Last week the BBC announced it had commissioned a one-off hour-long documentary called Dunblane: The Shooting that Changed Britain.
Made by IWC Media it also looks at what happened in Dunblane, as well as the effect it had on the law.
Channel 4 have yet to confirm the commissioning of its documentary, though it is expected to be filmed this autumn, ready for broadcast in March.
Lorraine Kelly reveals Dunblane massacre was worst day of 40 year career
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Queen Elizabeth places a floral bouquet in front of Dunblane Primary SchoolCredit: Reuters
Vigil for third series
THE third series of BBC thriller Vigil sees Rose Leslie and Suranne Jones joined by newcomers Jeppe Beck Laursen, Tornike Gogrichiani and Steven Miller.
DCI Silva and DI Longacre head to an Arctic research station, where a special forces operative has been killed.
Top Bill in Caddy Craic
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Bill Murray is heading to Ireland for a new BBC travelogueCredit: Getty
The six-parter will see Ghostbusters and Caddyshack legend Bill and celeb pals tour the Emerald Isle’s top golf courses.
Insiders say the show’s about life, chance encounters and the joy of going off course.
Bill said: “I started out caddying, and golf was the best education I ever received.
“Ireland feels like the right place to put all that to work.
“They’ve got this wonderful word there, ‘craic,’ which means fun, but it means a lot of other things.
“A lot of good things.
“And this show will be about us finding it.”
Off Course (working title) is on BBC Two later this year.
Gemma future secured
HOLLYOAKS actress Gemma Bissix has signed a new contract to stay on the E4 soap after her explosive comeback as Clare Devine.
Incorrect rumours claimed she had quit but a source told me: “Gemma recently finished filming her first stint back as Clare – but she will be back after a short break.”
DIANNE Buswell took to the Strictly floor for the first time tonight after hitting back at a troll who said her dancing while pregnant on the show made them ‘uncomfortable’.
The Strictly pro announced the happy news she is expecting her first baby with partner Joe Sugg earlier this month.
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Dianne Buswell took to the Strictly dance floor for the first time since hitting back at a troll
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The pregnant pro danced a foxtrot with her partner Stefan Dennis
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The couple danced to the Neighbours theme tune
Her pregnancy hasn’t stopped Dianne taking part in the 2025 series, where she has been paired with Neighbours legend Stefan Dennis.
Tonight, the duo danced their first routine in the Strictly studio, a foxtrot to the Neighbours theme tune.
The couple scored one of the better scores of the night with 22, and Dianne then received a ’10-second baby shower’ from her Strictly family.
Neil Jones – dressed as a stork – brought on some gifts for her.
Dianne replied: “I love you all so much and thank you for being so supportive.”
While the majority of people have been supportive, some trolls have taken aim at Dianne for dancing while pregnant.
The message said: “I don’t want to see her dance being pregnant, it’s already feeling uncomfortable and she’s only starting to show. It’s really not appropriate.”
Shocked by the remark, Strictly favourite Dianne hit back: “I can’t believe in 2025 things like this are still being said.”
But while one troll tried to bring her down, another fan rushed to lift her up.
Strictly’s Dianne Buswell expecting first baby with partner Joe Sugg as they reveal gender in sweet video
The flame-haired dancer proudly reposted a heartfelt message from a supporter who praised her for inspiring millions.
DANI Dyer has quit Strictly Come Dancing days before the live shows after injuring her ankle in training.
Dani’s exit dropped just as the cast was putting the final polish on their first live dances.
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She had taken part in the launch show — filmed ahead of transmission — where her partnership with Nikita was revealed to viewers.
The plan was to hit the floor this weekend, but the fracture means she won’t make it to that first Saturday night.
It’s a tough blow for Dani and for Nikita, who was ready to kick off the series with a crowd-pleasing ballroom number.
Here’s what happened and where things stand with a replacement.
Why has Dani Dyer pulled out of Strictly 2025?
Dani suffered a nasty ankle injury during rehearsals and has been forced to withdraw on medical advice.
She fell during a Friday training session, her foot ballooned over the weekend, and a hospital scan confirmed a fracture, leaving doctors with no choice but to bench her for the series.
The timing is brutal, coming just days before the first live show after she’d already filmed the pre-recorded launch where her pro partner was revealed.
Dani Dyer chokes back tears and says ‘I’m so heartbroken’ as she quits social media after pulling out of Strictly
In an emotional update to fans, Dani explained that continuing would risk exacerbating the injury.
She’d been gearing up for a fast ballroom routine in week one, but admitted taking to the floor with a fracture simply wasn’t possible.
The Love Island winner said she was gutted to walk away so close to the live shows after throwing herself into training.
What did Dani say about quitting?
The TV favourite struggled to hold back tears as she confirmed her exit, calling it “heartbreaking” to bow out before she’d had the chance to perform live.
She also thanked viewers for their support and said she’d be cheering the remaining couples on from the sofa while she focused on healing up.
Dani was particularly disappointed not to get her shot with pro partner Nikita Kuzmin after their pairing was unveiled on the launch show, saying she’d hoped to make her mark on the ballroom this year.
What has Nikita Kuzmin said — and could Dani return?
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Nikita broke his silence with a heartfelt message to fans and to Dani, praising her effort in the training room and saying he was proud of how hard she’d worked before the injury struck.
He admitted he was “gutted” to lose his celebrity partner so close to week one, and hinted he’d love the chance to dance with Dani in the future when she’s fit again.
In a further update, Nikita suggested the door isn’t closed on Dani appearing down the line in some capacity — whether that’s a studio visit later in the run or even a comeback in a future series once she’s fully recovered.
Is Dani Dyer being replaced?
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Love Island winner Amber Davies is replacing Dani DyerCredit: Splash
The BBChas confirmed Amber Davies is stepping into the Strictly 2025 line-up after Dani Dyer’s shock withdrawal with a fractured ankle.
Amber won Love Island in 2017 and has since established a successful stage career, starring in West End hits such as 9 to 5: The Musical and Pretty Woman: The Musical.
Thrown straight in at the deep end, Amber will make her Strictly debut in the first live show on Saturday, September 27.
She and Nikita are set to perform a Waltz as they bid to get their scores on the board and settle those first-night nerves.
What this means for week one
The live show will go ahead with a new name slotted into the line-up if producers can finalise the replacement in time.
The incoming celebrity will need to fast-track rehearsals to match the rest of the cast, and their debut dance is likely to be a classic ballroom routine that can be polished quickly in the studio.
Expect a supportive welcome from the judges and some leeway from viewers as the new pairing finds its footing under pressure.
When is Strictly 2025 on?
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The pre-recorded launch has already aired, revealing the celebrity-pro pairings and giving fans a first look at the glamour.
The live shows start this Saturday night on BBC One, with catch-up available on BBC iPlayer shortly after transmission.
Week one traditionally has no elimination, so viewers will get to see every couple — including the late replacement — take to the floor before the first vote opens the following week.
AN ICONIC Norwegian-style house featured in a TV show watched by millions – but do you recognise it?
Nestled in the picture postcard landscape of the Wye Valley in Hertfordshire, the wooden home appeared in a hit Netflix series.
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This iconic Norwegian house featured in a hit TV show on NetflixCredit: Knight Frank
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It can be found nestled on the slopes of the Wye Valley in HertfordshireCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
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The property featured in high school comedy drama Sex Education
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It features prominently throughout the popular series
The Edwardian building features in Netflix’s high school comedy drama, Sex Education, which first aired in 2019.
It features prominently throughout the series and fans may have recognised it as the home of high schooler Otis Milburn and his mum Jean, played by Gillian Anderson.
The Scandinavian inspired property has room for 10 people and is located near the Forest of Dean with cycle trails and a river nearby for canoeing and fishing.
Fans will recognise certain rooms in the house from many of the scenes between Otis and Jean.
Built in 1912, it was initially used as a fishing lodge and also featured in Extraordinary Escapes on Channel 4.
With five bedrooms over three floors, the property has breathtaking panoramic views of the valley.
And the main bedroom can be found at the top of the house, spanning the entire floor.
As you approach the Norwegian-inspired home, you are immediately struck by it’s distinctive exterior.
It’s comprised of red wooden slats and white detailing amidst the expansive greenery on the slopes overlooking the River Wye.
It has a winding drive lined with trees leading up to a garage.
JD Sports Shuts 13 Stores Amid Sales Slump: What’s Next for the High Street?
Viewers had the chance to own it in 2023 where it hit the market for an eye-watering £1.5 million.
It was renovated in 2002 that saw the conservatory dining room extended and a bespoke painted wood kitchen installed alongside a contemporary bathroom and shower rooms.
It was done in such a way that it blends effortlessly into the rest of the house.
Move outside and you’ll notice it’s beautiful gardens where there are steps that lead straight down to the river.
It also has a decked balcony where a Swedish hot back and stone pizza oven can be used as you take in the spectacular views.
The property’s 4.5 acres of land includes two greenhouses, a stone and tile outbuilding and an orchard.
It’s currently a private residence but fans used to be able to rent the whole house for £75 per person a night – but you can still admire its beauty from afar.
VICKY Pattison and Dani Dyer’s dad Danny have rallied around her after she was forced to quit Strictly Come Dancing due to injury.
Strictly contestant Vicky and actor Danny led the stars sharing messages of support on Instagram last night after the Love Islander broke the news of her exit.
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Vicky Pattison has thrown her support behind pal Dani Dyer after her devastating early exit from Strictly Come DancingCredit: Instagram/vickypattison
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Vicky posted a string of photos from behind the scenes on the BBC showCredit: Instagram/vickypattison
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Danny also showed his support on his daughter’s postCredit: Instagram
Mum-of-three Dani was due to perform in her first live show on Saturday night with professional partner Nikita Kuzmin, but said: “I had a fall on Friday in rehearsals and landed funny.
“I thought I had rolled my foot but it swelled up badly over the weekend and after an MRI scan yesterday, it turns out I have fractured my ankle.”
Dani, 29, continued: “Apparently doing the Quickstep on a fracture is not advisable and the doctors have said I am not allowed to dance, so I’ve had to pull out of the show.
“To say I’m heartbroken is the biggest understatement.
“I am so going to miss dancing with Nikita but will of course be watching closely and cheering all the couples on.”
Her dad left a broken-heart emoji beneath her post, and Vicky replied, saying: “Absolutely devastated for you Dani.
“I’m going to miss you so much… Love you loads x”
The ex-Geordie Shore star added a string of photos of them together in a separate post on her Instagram grid.
She revealed they formed a close bond during their time together on the show.
Vicky said: “I am absolutely gutted for you!! I have loved every minute of our little @bbcstrictly journey together and I’m devastated this is the end..
Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood reveals his surprising ‘favourite’ star ahead of tomorrow’s launch
“But I know you’ll be back next year with your incredible energy, amazing dance skills and beautiful soul… AND YOU’LL SMASH IT!!!
“I’m already peanut butter and jealous of whatever lucky sod gets to be your dressing room buddy… because you’re the best roomie ever.
“Love you mate and wishing you a speedy recovery… this series won’t be the same without you…”
Dani replied: “Going to miss you, love you millions.”
Just days ago Dani shared her nerves ahead of the live shows.
She said last week: “I’m absolutely petrified about dancing live on Saturday nights.”
Speaking to The Sun about her upcoming Strictly adventure, she was asked if her famous dad Danny Dyer was going to watch – and if he would get emotional.
The mum-of-three revealed: “He’s going to. He will try and keep it together. Him and my mum are making a little date day of it.
“They’re coming on the launch show together. They’re really excited.”
Asked whether she could persuade The Football Factory star to do Strictly in the future, she said: “When it [Strictly] was announced, someone said Dani Dyer is doing it – they thought it was my dad. It’s not Danny Dyer – it’s the other one.
BRITISH actor James Norton has said he “worked hard” to perfect his Dublin accent for his upcoming series House Of Guinness.
Norton, 40, plays Sean Rafferty, foreman of the Guinness brewery, in the eight-part Netflix series from Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight.
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James Norton worked hard on his accentCredit: Getty
House Of Guinness brings to life the real scandals, power struggles and generational secrets of Ireland’s most famous family.
The series reimagines the fallout from Sir Benjamin Guinness’s death, set against the backdrop of 19th-century Dublin and New York.
The Happy Valley actor said he was adamant to get the accent right. Norton said: “I worked hard. I was aware that many actors have gotten it wrong, and the Irish are a proud bunch so if you get it wrong, you hear about it.
“I worked hard and had great guidance from my fellow cast members.” Norton, who recently starred in and co-produced historical drama series King & Conqueror for BBC One, said he learned a lot about 19th century Irish history from the Guinness show.
He said: “It’s always a privilege, and part of our job is being given the opportunity to explore periods of history we might not otherwise encounter.
“For me, it was a massive revelation. I hadn’t realised how influential the Guinness family was on Dublin’s architecture, or the extent of their welfare and philanthropic efforts, like the pensions and support they provided, which are portrayed in the show.
“They were also pioneers as a brand, becoming one of the first multinational drinks companies and dominating North America as the biggest beer brand of their time. It was both eye-opening and an incredibly thrilling journey to delve into all of that.”
The show explores the impact of Sir Benjamin’s will on the futures of his four adult children: Arthur, played by Derry Girls actor Anthony Boyle; Edward, portrayed by Enola Holmes star Louis Partridge; Anne, played by The Responder actress Emily Fairn; and Benjamin, portrayed by Normal People actor Fionn O’Shea.
Boyle, 31, whose character is homosexual, said he drew inspiration from Irish poet and writer Oscar Wilde for his role.
He said: “I looked a lot at Oscar Wilde, particularly because of the threat of someone finding out about your sexuality at that time and you could have resulted in 20 years of hard labour, which is essentially a death sentence, which is what Oscar Wilde was sentenced to.
“And reading a lot of his work, like the Ballad Of Reading Gaol.”
First look at Netflix’s House of Guinness
Boyle, who leads the series, said he is particularly proud that the programme showcases Irish culture.
“I’m really, really proud Irish culture is having such an amazing moment right now on the global stage and I feel really, really proud of having artists like Kneecap and Fontaines DC being on the soundtrack. It’s class.”
Knight, 66, who is writing the script for the next James Bond film, said the series’ ability to showcase Irish culture is like a “Christmas present”.
He said: “It’s not an effort to force it in, it’s already there. And then there’s that whole generation of Irish music, along with this incredible generation of young Irish actors.”
Knight added that the Guinness family provided an excellent stimulus for dramatic storytelling.
He said: “I was immediately surprised no one’s done this because the story is dynamite, the characters are so interesting and the dynamic of the family. It’s all there ready for you.
“There’s the reading of the will, which is a dramatic moment. Sir Benjamin Guinness leaves millions of pounds, along with land, lakes and castles. Yet his four children are all left unhappy with the terms. They must then go on and live their lives. It’s fantastic.”
House Of Guinness premieres on Netflix on Thursday.
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The star said he was inspired by Oscar WildeCredit: PA
Countryfile anchor Anita, 47, has now been seen with her new man as the pair attended a London Fashion Week show.
The couple looked smitten as they held hands and wandered through the streets of the capital city.
Anita wore a copper-coloured jumpsuit, which appeared to be loosely fitted and boasted of a plunging neckline.
She completed the look with a classic Burberry trench, some green pointed boots that had a stiletto heel, and a tan-coloured shoulder bag.
Anita wore her brunette bob in a sleek style which was straight and glossy.
Meanwhile, her hunky man could be seen in a pair of dark grey jeans, with a black top, a grey jacket and a pair of brown boots.
The smitten pair walked hand in hand as they smiled at one another, with them even bursting out in laughter in one snap.
Earlier this month, the couple were spotted running errands at homeware store B&Q.
As the pair were papped at the start of September, Alex was seen with a tote bag slung over his shoulder and carrying some soil.
Strictly Come Dancing hit with fresh fix row just one week into show as star’s dance career is exposed
At the time, Anita walked closely alongside her man as they made their way to his car.
The pair were also all smiles in a selfie posted from the Green Man festival in August, with Anita and Alex seen posing with her pals.
Anita, who tagged Alex’s work account and also follows his personal page on Instagram, is clearly embracing her next life chapter.
Her man is in charge of an immersive sonic experience company called Frqncy Ldn.
The company “explores the effects of sound and mind on the body.”
He recently focused on the gong instrument, composing and writing the score for the instrument on new release, The White Edition.
Anita proved the supportive partner as she wrote underneath: “It’s a stunner.”
Meanwhile, Alex’s brand has also performed sound meditations as part of Glastonbury Festival’s wellness programme.
Previously, Anita and Alex were seen watching Lankum and Mogwai at South Facing Festival in Crystal Palace park.
At the time, a source told The Sun: “Anita and this bloke were clearly very close and more than just friends – she was wrapped around him in the VIP area then they walked off into the crowd together looking really happy.”
Joanna said: “There are always going to be predators in an environment like this when you’ve got young, beautiful girls who are desperate to get a job.
“It is so hard to get that job.”
“Most of the time the people who are giving you those jobs are older men and they know that you want the job and there’s a million girls out there trying to get the job.”
She continued: “You don’t ever go, ‘Oh God, I’m going to report this’, because in those days you kind of didn’t, you just got on with it, it was what happened at work.
“It wasn’t every single job I went into, but in lots of different jobs there would be one type of thing.”
Mum-of-four Joanna, who is promoting her memoir Lush!, does not name the perpetrator as she says: “The legal people said, ‘Be careful’.”
A BBC spokesperson told The Sun earlier this year: “What started as a six month project turned into more than a year of joyous TV chatter, and over 80 heart-warming episodes.
Watch as Joanna Page reveals she was in floods of tears filming final scenes
“Though they both loved making the series, Natalie Cassidy and Joanna Page have very busy schedules and on the 21st May, the final episode of Off the Telly will be released on BBC Sounds.
“Thank you to Nat and Jo for their warm recommendations and insider analysis, and to the whole team for keeping listeners in the loop with what to watch.
“We look forward to working with Nat and Jo again soon!”
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‘You’re a woman…and it’s so hard to get jobs anyway and you don’t want to make a fuss’, said the actressCredit: Rex
STRICTLY Come Dancing is already in a fix row midway through the launch show.
The complaints from fans come after one of the star’s YEARS of dance experience was revealed.
EmmerdaleactorLewis Cope isn’t just good at acting, because he is an experienced dancer too.
He previously competed in a dancing world championship final three times.
The soap hunk has been dancing since the age of 10-years-old and has appeared on TV before.
Reacting to Lewis’ prior dancing experience, one fan said: “I need lewis to stop pretending he’s not a trained dancer.”
“Another Billy Elliot ex-pro dancer. tut tut,” penned a second.
A third then wrote: “Just give lewis the trophy now. He looks the part without seeing him move.”
While a fourth said: “Lewis is such a natural mover. His theatre experience will really help him as well. He’s definitely making that final I can feel it.”
“How will Lewis Cope on the dancefloor? I reckon he’ll be just fine,” said a fifth.
A sixth then penned: “the way lewis is blatantly gonna win is p***ing me off.”
While a seventh said: “So lewis is a dancer.”
Lewis previously spent eight years in the dance group, Ruff Diamond who were runners up in Sky TV’s Got to Dance competition.
LA VOIX has made history by becoming the first drag artist to sign up for the main series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Here’s everything you need to know about the trailblazing performer, whom The Sun exclusively revealed would be part of the Strictly 2025 line-up.
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La Voix is the first drag artist to feature on a main series of StrictlyCredit: Instagram
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La Voix also made it to the semi-finals of BGTCredit: Rex
Who is La Voix?
La Voix, born Christopher Dennis, is a dynamic performer, presenter and vocalist.
She first rose to prominence in the entertainment world as a semi-finalist on Britain’s Got Talent in 2014.
La Voix later gained international acclaim through appearances on shows including Queen of the Universe and Queens For The Night.
In 2024, La Voix was a fan favourite and runner-up on the sixth series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, earning four RuPeter Badges for winning multiple challenges, including the Snatch Game and a musical Rusical performance.
Growing up in Stockton-on-Tees, La Voix moved to London aged 18 to study drama at Brunel University before training in musical theatre at the Urdang Academy.
Her career spans decades and includes performances worldwide on over 80 cruise ships and regular pantomime roles.
This is on top of La Voix’s live shows combining powerful vocals, comedy and celebrity impressions — she has the ability to channel legendary divas like Tina Turner, Cher and Judy Garland.
La Voix interviewed iconic personalities such as Dawn French and Joanna Lumley, and even performed for the Royal Family at its exclusive New Year’s Eve ball for two consecutive years.
The entertainer has also been involved in film, including a role in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 lineup IN FULL – including Game of Thrones star & famous YouTuber
La Voix’s participation in Strictly Come Dancing is historic as she is the first drag queen to compete in the main series of the show.
While drag performers have appeared in the program’s Christmas specials before, La Voix is breaking new ground by joining the main line-up.
Speaking with the BBC, La Voix said: “I’ve performed for royalty, RuPaul and Simon Cowell, but nothing fills me with more excitement, and quite a bit of terror, than the thought of dancing in front of millions on live Saturday night TV.
“Strictly is a national institution, and I can’t wait to get started.
“All that’s left to say is: good luck to my partner! Here’s hoping they can help me go from La Voix into La Danse.”
La Voix also told Radio 2’s Scott Mills: “I can’t dance, I’ve always said it’s not my thing.
“I’ve managed to get through 20 years of being on stage by standing in the centre and having dancers choreographed around me, now I can’t hide behind that any more.”
Who else is on Strictly this year?
The 2025 Strictly Come Dancing line-up includes a stacked cast of celebrities alongside La Voix:
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (Olympian and Gladiator)
Dani Dyer (TV personality)
Alex Kingston (Doctor Who actress)
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (former footballer)
Balvinder Sopal (actress from EastEnders)
Ellie Goldstein (model and the first contestant with Down syndrome on the full show)
