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STRICTLY Come Dancing has seen some iconic pairings during its two decades on screen.

Tonight, the class of 2025 will learn who their pro-partners are on the pre-recorded launch show.

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But many will be hoping their Strictly partnerships don’t go the way of these past duos, who didn’t exactly see eye-to-eye, to put it politely.

Here’s a recap of some of the worst Strictly pairings ever.

Fiona Phillips and Brendan Cole

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Former GMTV host Fiona took part in the third series of Strictly back in 2005.

She wasn’t a natural on the dancefloor, and she has claimed pro-partner Brendan Cole made his feelings on that very clear.

In her book, Remember When: My Life With Alzheimer’s, Fiona – who is battling the disease – wrote: “He could also be seen looking at my dancing and saying, ‘Pathetic, it’s not good enough!’

“Then I’m begging him to ‘stop shouting’ and worrying that I look completely ridiculous. There’s a clip where I say to the cameraman that Brendan is looking at me like he’s stepped in something.

“I really don’t remember much of that time now – maybe I blocked it out because all I recall is the sense that it was incredibly traumatic.”

She added that she was on ‘the brink of tears’ most of the time and quickly regretted her decision to sign up.

Johnny Ball and Aliona Vilani

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Legendary TV presenter Johnny, 87, was part of the 2012 series, where he was paired with the previous years winner, Aliona.

Aliona left the early stages of the 10th series due to an injury and Johnny was paired with Iveta Lukošiūtė instead.

Johnny ended up being the first to be booted off the show, but five years later, in 2017, Johnny launched an astonishing attack on his Strictly dance partners, accusing them of fixing it so he got booted off first.

He told The Sun on Sunday: “Aliona fell on a flat floor in flat shoes and said she had broken her leg.

“The next day she flew to the South of France for a pre-arranged weekend with her boyfriend.”

The star was then paired with Iveta – and he claimed that she devised a routine that was too difficult for him.

He said: “When I was knocked out she said, ‘That’s funny, my contract ends on Tuesday’.”

Aliona later took to X to deny his claims, saying: “I am aware that Johnny Ball has made allegations regarding my fractured ankle during 2012 SCD, which I strongly deny.

“I have instructed solicitors and am taking legal action in relation to his allegations.

“It’s therefore not appropriate to comment further at this time.”

Fern Britton and Artem Chigvintsev

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Former This Morning host Fern, 68, has spoken on a number of occasions about her experience on Strictly.

Fern was paired with Artem, 43, in series 10 in 2012 and was the fifth celebrity to be eliminated.

While her run on Strictly wasn’t long, it was tough, with Fern previously telling The Times: “He would look at my feet and just kick me or shove me.”

Artem denied Fern’s claims of him ‘kicking or shoving her’ during tense rehearsals.

He told the Daily Express: “I believe I treated Fern with respect and genuine care and these claims about me are the opposite of everything I believe in and the person I am.

“I cannot imagine what has prompted such statements which come as a shock to me.”

She added in her book, Fern Britton The Older I Get, how her confidence was knocked straightaway with Artem.

Describing the rehearsals as “challenging”, Fern added: “As the weeks went on, I found it increasingly hard to gather up my self-confidence and there were days I was crying before I even got into the rehearsal room.”

Lynda Bellingham and Darren Bennett

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The late actress and Loose Women star Lynda Bellingham signed up for Strictly in 2009.

She was paired with series two champ Darren Bennett, but the duo were voted out on the fourth week.

Following her death in 2014 from cancer, her husband Michael Pattemore claimed in a book that Lynda had “hated” her time on Strictly.

He wrote: “There were two things about Strictly she didn’t like. One was her body image. She always thought she looked fat. I kept saying she didn’t.

“She picked this ruched gold dress and she said it made her look 20 times bigger than what she was.

“And the other thing, she said her partner Darren Bennett was such a miserable git. There was no laughter, no fun.

“All the way through rehearsals she didn’t mind training hard, but it was solid dance. He was just hard work.

“If Lynda had had a partner like Anton du Beke or someone, now they would have had some fun together.”

Danny John-Jules and Amy Dowden

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Back in 2018, Red Dwarf star Danny was paired with pro dancer Amy Dowden.

While the pair produced some great routines, rumours of behind-the-scenes tension were rife.

The Sun revealed at the time that Danny, 65, had received a final warning by show bosses for “bullying” partner Amy.

The actor had reportedly left Amy in tears during training — at one point angrily telling her: “I’m the star, not you.”

When they were voted off in week eight, Danny opted not to take part in their exit interview on spin-off show It Takes Two, leaving Amy to do it on her own.

Strictly Come Dancing starts tonight at 6.20pm on BBC One.

EASTENDERS legend Rita Simons has married her “best friend” in a stunning rural wedding.

The BBC One show alum, 48, only revealed the pair had got engaged back in January, with a sweet Instagram upload.

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Now Rita, who is best-known for playing EastEnders‘ Roxy Mitchell, has tied the knot with Ben Harlow in the same year.

The actress took to her social media grid to reveal the happy news as well as a handful of snapshots showing her stunning boho bridal look.

Rita opted for an off the shoulder flowing cream dress adorned with a floral print for the ceremony in Carlisle, Cumbria.

She styled her blonde hair into waves and a half-up style with fresh make-up.

Her new groom Ben opted for a handsome beige suit and crisp white shirt.

The lovebirds shared images showing them enjoying a kiss while in front of a lake as well as holding hands when strolling through a park.

Rita also gave a snapshot of the ceremony, too, with the pair looking blissfully in love as they read their vows in a wood-floored barn.

She then hopped onto the stage with Blue’s Duncan James during the wedding reception to mark their special night.

In her emotional caption, the soap star wrote: “Well this happened yesterday!

“I married my best friend @benjyharlow. Just a little teaser before I have the good stuff from @the.event.editor content creator.”

She added: “I can’t even put into words how special our day was…mostly because we have the most incredible bunch of humans who love us unconditionally and who were prepared to travel to @hiddenriverbarn from all over the world to share our day.

“We love you all. You know who you are …sorry there’s gonna be a ton of pics to follow!

“The stars of the day were (apart from my babies @jaimee_silv @maiya.sammy ) @therocketscollective who rocked SO hard for the entire day and night! (Videos incoming!)”

She then told of All Rise singer Duncan’s role in the special day and added: “Thank you my darling @mrduncanjames for giving me away, I love you forever.”

EastEnders stars who QUIT

MICHELLE Collins has seen her second EastEnders stint boost her bank balance. Yet what stars have quit this year?

The Sun exclusively reported how Michelle, 62, was down to £20,000 in her company accounts when she agreed to a shock back-from-the-dead return to Albert Square last year.

Her character, Cindy Beale, was presumed dead off-camera in 1998.

Yet what about the 2024 exits?

Earlier this summer, loyal soap fans appeared to note how Stevie Mitchell had “quit” the long-running series.

It came after Alan Ford enjoyed just six-months on-screen.

Bobby Beale actor Clay Milner Russell also left this year after five years in Walford.

Fans also feared Martin Fowler actor James Bye would “quit out of boredom” over recent storylines.

Additionally, a host of stars have quit the BBC soap for Hollywood fame.

One of the most successful stars to come from the BBC One soap is Rob Kazinsky.

He played Stacey Slater’s brother Sean Slater from 2006 to 2009, he has starred in Hollywood blockbusters Pacific Rim and Captain Marvel.

Ben Hardy, who quit EastEnders as Bobby Beale almost a decade ago, went on to break Hollywood the following year, when he starred as Archangel in X-Men: Apocalypse.

Since then, he has played Roger Taylor in Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody, and he starred in Michael Bay’s Netflix movie 6 Underground.

Michelle Ryan played Zoe Slater until 2005.

She starred as the lead in short-lived American series Bionic Woman from 2007 to 2008.

HAPPY ENGAGEMENT

The pair’s wedding comes just nine months after their engagement.

In the Instagram picture back in January, Rita can be seen showing off her engagement ring as she poses for the camera, while Ben beams for the camera as he sits beside her.

Captioning the post, Rita wrote: “… so this happened!”

The actress then added two sparkling ring emojis and an excited face.”

Rita and theatre actor Ben first met in 2017 when they both starred in the touring production of hit musical Legally Blonde.

They started dating a couple of years later after Rita split with her first husband of 14 years, Theo Silveston.

The former couple had met in 2004 and welcomed twin daughters together before they separated in 2018.

Their divorce was finalised in 2020.

Rita joined EastEnders as Roxy in 2007 and became a fan favourite before she was brutally killed off alongside on-screen sister Ronnie in a tragic New Year storyline in 2017.

She went on to appear on I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here in 2018 before joining Hollyoaks last year as Marie Fielding.

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TRAITORS star Freddie Fraser shocks fans with ‘cheating’ vid hours after Yasmin and Jamie split.

The BBC mystery game competitor has been caught up in the midst of controversy after the former Love island couple called it quits.

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At the National Television Awards, we exclusively revealed how Yasmin was cosying up to Freddie.

She even whispered in the ear of The Traitors star to escape prying eyes, saying: “We need to go somewhere private, no one can see.”

Meanwhile Jamie lamented her disappearance, and as our exclusive video shows.

He was heard telling pals she had “f**ked off” – appearing to admit that the TV couple were on the rocks.

Now Freddie has caused a stir with his latest TikTok video where he flaunted his sleek black wide leg suit and double breasted jacket he wore to the event.

But in a more pointed nod, the song he used as the backing track was Rihanna‘s 2007 hit track, Breakin’ Dishes.

In an even more cheeky move, the lyrics of the song are: “Is he cheatin’?

“Man, I don’t know. I’m lookin’ ’round for somethin’ else to throw.”

Given the recent news, fans could not help but see the irony of the track as they took to the comments section with a flurry of speculation.

One user exclaimed: “The song seems fitting.”

A second fan took note of the lyrics as they simply commented with their spin on the quote, writing: “Is she cheating…..cause her man don’t know”!!”

“[Crying with laughter emoji] song choice,” said a third follower.

While a fourth stated: “The song choice is wildddd after the reports today [bold eyes emoji]”

As someone else claimed: “Sings really fitting well rn [two skull emojis].”

LOVE ISLAND VOTING PERCENTAGES

TONI and Cach won the Love Island 2025 final – yet what were the exact voting percentages?

Las Vegas waitress Toni Laites and professional dancer Cach Mercer went head-to-head with OG islanders Shakira Khan and Harry Cooksley in a nail-biting finale.

However, Toni and Cach were triumphant and won the summer series after surviving a love triangle just two weeks before the final.

A results table shared on Love Island’s Instagram account this afternoon showed Toni and Cach were the runaway winners on the night, taking over a third of the votes, with 33.5% of viewers backing them for the crown.

However, Shakira and Harry drew a sizeable 26.2% of the votes, and Yas and Jamie were not far behind taking 22% on the nose.

Aesthetics practitioner Angel, 26, only made her debut on July 17, but managed to secure an impressive 18.3% of the overall voting audience with Casa Amor boy Ty.

While a sixth remarked: “The song choice is crazy if I’m being honest”

And a seventh added: “The song choice [crying with laughter emoji],” alongside a GIF of Sharon Osbourne bursting into hysterics on The X Factor.

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STRICTLY Come Dancing star Thomas Skinner has revealed that he had terrifying death threats after meeting up with the vice-president of the United States JD Vance.

The American politician reached out to him after seeing his social media posts saying he admired his positive attitude for life.

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And he invited him to the barbecue of the summer at 18th-century Dean Manor near Chipping Norton in the Cotswolds.

But afterwards The Apprentice star and market stall holder proudly posted a photo of them together on social media – and received a shocking backlash.

In an exclusive interview he admits: “Since I posted that picture I’ve had loads of death threats. People saying they want me dead, saying I am this political figure that I’m actually not. I actually really ain’t. I couldn’t tell you what’s going on in the world right now.

“Now the left seems to be attacking me every day on social media. The right seems to see me as this figurehead and it’s all been a bit much for me, if I’m honest with you.

“I was getting death threats and people calling me controversial. I was thinking, what have I ever done? What have I ever said that’s controversial? When you actually go through my tweets, apart from saying that knife crime is bad in London, yeah?

“I’m not this political figurehead that people believe that’s got my hand.

“I’ve had loads of death threats over the years, you know.

“I didn’t see it as anything more than a barbecue, if I’m honest with you. But I’ve been turned into this political figure that I’m actually not.”

But the East Londoner does admit he was nervous after accepting the invite along with Cambridge academic James Orr and Tory MP Danny Kruger.

He said: “I was very nervous about it, I didn’t know what to wear. When I arrived he literally was like, ‘Why have you got a suit on?’

“He was actually a normal bloke. We spoke about English cheese being so much better than American cheese, West Ham United and how they call football ‘soccer’.”

Fry-up fan Thomas was blown away by the food, laid on by the local pub, describing it as “the b******s.”

He said: “There was a pub in the town, and Jay wanted to go to a traditional English pub, but he knew by going to this pub it would obviously have to shut, because I’ve never seen so many security guys in my life… a proper entourage… he didn’t want it to affect the locals.

“So he asked the pub if they would kindly – he paid them a lot of money – bring some of their staff to cook at the place, and they did, they actually left this beautiful pub in the Cotswolds, they’d come round to the garden, and they cooked this fantastic spread, it was steaks, kebabs, halloumi, honestly it was unreal.  Everyone was really friendly.”

He didn’t take pictures, he says, because he didn’t want to “disturb his privacy”.

Joking, he adds: “When Trump comes he might invite me to a BBQ too.”

NO REGRETS

Despite the furore online Thomas insists he doesn’t regret posting the picture. He said: “I don’t regret it, I am a normal bloke and it was an amazing opportunity.

“Put yourself in my shoes. What would you do?  You’re a normal person.  And, I’ve been given this opportunity to sit with the Vice President of the most powerful country in the world, the United States of America. To me that was, “Wow’.

“And I would have gone, whether it was the leader of France, Germany, I think to sit there and learn, and experience that, whether you agree with him politically or not, it wasn’t about that for me, it was literally to say, ‘I’ve sat there and met the Vice President of the United States of America’.”

Yesterday, dad of three Thomas told how he had cheated on his wife – but bitterly regrets his mistake.

Sinead has been by his side since they got together nearly a decade ago.

Thomas began working part time as a market trader at 13 after being expelled from school. He found several businesses before starring on The Apprentice in 2019 after Sinead encouraged him to apply.

Since then he has appeared on Celebrity MasterChef, 8 Out of 10 Cats, and Michael McIntyre‘s Big Show.

But he is also known for his motivational videos on social media where he shares his love of kebabs and pints.

It was his conservative political views that led to US Vice President JD Vance actually getting in touch with him.

SPREADS POSITIVITY

He says he loves spreading positivity.

He said: “Even when JD Vance sent me a DM, he was like, ‘Look I love your energy, keep it up, I love seeing the high energy and the positivity you spread’.

“Which is literally all I do, all I do is share videos of me having a roast dinner, and do a morning video to say, ‘Have a good day’,  because I know what it’s like to wake up and feel like you can’t do this. I’ve been there, and that’s why I won’t ever give up spreading the positivity.”

Throughout the ups and down in his life Sinead – who he dubs Super sensible Sinéad – has been at his side throughout.

He admits the past few weeks have been tough and he has struggled with the public scrutiny.

He said: “It does affect you. I’ve always put on this brave face. But it’s alright to be vulnerable and be down and be upset. There are times I’ve felt low.”

CLOSE PALS WITH RYLAN CLARK

His close pal Rylan Clark also faced backlash recently over his views on migrant hotels which sparked over 700 Ofcom complaints.

Thomas said: “Rylan has been a friend of mine since I was a teenager. I love him. He’s a family friend, he comes to our family events. I go round to his and I bring him round to ours.

“He’s a top guy. And the thing that I just worry about is nowadays, whether someone’s got a different opinion to you, or you say something that might be slightly incorrect or you don’t agree with, everyone should be allowed to have their opinion, and everyone should be allowed to express it and argue it and talk about it.

“But if your opinion is different to someone else’s, people shouldn’t be able to attack you and ram it down your throat, and I think that’s wrong, if I’m honest with you.

“Poor old Rylan got a bashing, and obviously I know what it feels like, because I’ve had a bashing in the last couple of years.”

What Rylan said was: “How come if I turn up at Heathrow Airport and I’ve left my passport in Spain, I’ve got to stand at that airport and won’t be let in? But if I arrive on a boat from Calais, I get taken to a four-star hotel?

“I find it absolutely insane that all these people are risking their lives coming across the Channel like they are. But when they get here, it seems, ‘Welcome, come on in’.”

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He later said he was angry at being “put in a box” over his opinions and called for more intelligent debate. Rylan posted on X: “You can be pro immigration and against illegal routes. You can support trans people and have the utmost respect for women.

“You can be heterosexual and still support gay rights. Stop with this putting everyone in a box exercise and maybe have conversations instead of shouting on Twitter.”

Thomas says the pressure that he and other celebrities receive due to fame can be hard to deal with.

And key to helping keep his mental health stable is the group of friends from the market that he still meets every Friday for “a pint”.

He said: “I think that’s so important, they think it’s funny I’m going on Strictly.

“Every Friday, and I’ve done this for years, you know, since I started out, no matter what, me and my group of little pals have a pint on a Friday afternoon.

“Some of us could be skint on our arse, some of us could be flying, we’re all having the same beer, in the same circle, talking the same thing, and we always, we always talk about what’s been a bad week, sad week, a happy week, a good week, a great week, and we all support each other, and I think that’s so important.”

And his biggest fan – his mum couldn’t be prouder.

Both his parents still work and are real “grafters” – which is where he says he gets his work ethic from.

His mum works in a call centre – but until this week hadn’t revealed who her famous son was, because she says they “never asked”.

He said: “She’s one of the people, when your boiler goes, she’ll ring up, my mum’s the one that you abuse on the phone saying, ‘My boilers gone,” she’s got one of the hardest jobs in the world. bless her.

“When she asked for the day off she said her son was on Strictly. They said, ‘What who’s your son? What do you mean?’ She showed them a picture of me.”

Her son is still a market trader with his own stall selling mattresses and pillows. He survives on just five hours sleep a night and even when rehearsing for the BBC show he says he will set up his stall first.

He still loves his work and feels proud to be helping Britain’s High Street.

Thomas said: “I’m going to try and set up at 6am. Markets help the shops, but then the shops are suffering, the high street’s dying.”

One thing that isn’t dying is his fan base.

Thomas confesses that he has been inundated with direct messages from celebrities on social media offering support for the new dance show.

He said: “I’ve had hundreds of messages, footballers, TV stars, all sorts.

“But I don’t think it’s fair to say who, because they’ve said that to me confidentially, and I respect that.

“People like my energy and the positivity I spread, which is literally all I do.”

Thomas has experienced financial highs and lows, and even homelessness.

He said: “I know what it’s like to have a few quid in my pocket, when everything’s going well, and your business is flying, and you’ve got everyone around you.

“But I also know what it’s like to be on your a***, not having anywhere to live, and not knowing how you’re going to pay your next bill. I’ve been at both spectrums.

“It’s taught me to be strong, and taught me to try and help other people, because life can be so hard.”

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ITV viewers were left less than impressed by the latest You Bet On Tour episode – and promptly called out Oti Mabuse’s victory.

The game show – which is a re-boot of the 80’s series – initially saw Holly Willoughby, 44, teaming up with Stephen Mulhern to front it as it arrived on the broadcaster.

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Yet the new spin-off – which sees Stephen going solo after Holly quit ahead of a full series commission – features a host of famous faces instead.

It sees ordinary people across the UK take on a host of huge challenges in an attempt to win £5K.

A revolving celebrity panel then place their bets on which team they think will succeed.

On Saturday, Oti Mabuse came out top – yet viewers weren’t convinced.

The drama was started after the final challenge, which saw rowing team Cool Runnings bet that they could complete their 2000 metre challenge quicker than the Olympic Rowers squad.

Strictly champ Oti was pitted against McFly singer Danny Jones and former Olympian Greg Rutherford.

Both Danny and Oti backed red team Cool Runnings – who ultimately came out on top – with the dancer then being crowned the overall celebrity champion of the episode

The outcome sparked an outcry on social media, with one fan posting on X: “Absolute fix #youbet.”

Another wrote: “100% fix.”

One bluntly branded the episode: “Absolutely s**t!!!!!!!!”

Another surmised: “THIS is fucking abysmal.”

The Sun has gone to ITV for comment.

ALL CHANGE

Earlier this summer, the full line-up for You Bet On Tour came to light.

Stephen Mulhern’s career so far

The presenter is a mainstay on various ITV shows, but how did he become one of Britain’s most well-known faces?

Stephen first gained an interest in magic and tricks from his father who taught him as a kid.

After performing at Butlins, he became the youngest member of the Magic Circle and even made an appearance on Blue Peter in a piece about Harry Houdini.

His career started in Children’s TV when he presenter the show Finger Tips in 2001.

After four years, he launched Tricky TV on CITV in 2005, which he presented until 2010.

During this time, he was handpicked by bosses to front the ITV2 spin-off for Britain’s Got Talent.

He presented Britain’s Got More Talent until the cancelation of the companion in 2019.

But it’s not all bad news for Stephen who is known for his duties on a number of quiz shows.

In for a Penny, a format originally launched on Ant & Dec‘s Saturday Night Takeaway was launched the same year.

Before, he was chosen by bosses to host Catchphrase in 2013 and has been fronting the show ever since.

Other huge shows he presented for ITV included Big Star’s Little Star, Rolling In It and the reboot of Deal Or No Deal.

He also made regular appearances on This Morning in ‘The Hub’ segment between 2011 and 2014. 

After the Philip Schofield scandal rocked ITV, he was chosen to reunite with his former CITV co-star Holly Willoughby as the host of Dancing on Ice.

It was revealed how Big Brother hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best will appear on the series as will soap star brothers – Ryan and Adam Thomas.

BGT judge Alesha Dixon is also on the bill with BBC Radio 2’s Zoe Ball and Rylan Clark also expected to appear.

Comedian Eddie Kadi, Loose Women favourite Judi Love, Olympian Greg Rutherford and comedians Johnny Vegas and Josh Widdicombe will also play their part.

The series comprises of six full-length episodes as well as an additional Christmas special which was filmed in Cambridgeshire.

The festive episode will air in December and filmed at Kimbolton Castle.

That episode will feature This Morning’s Alison Hammond, comedian Rob Beckett and actor Nick Mohammad.

Meanwhile, speaking about the series, host Stephen said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that You Bet! is back – and this time we’re hitting the road!

“Each week I’ll be joined by a top celeb panel, as our challengers take on some brilliantly bonkers and amazing challenges.

“With the title of You Bet Champion on the line, it’s going to be unbelievable from the start.”

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EX-I’m A Celebrity winner Vicky Pattison is finding Strictly rehearsals difficult and admits: “I’d take kangaroo balls over glitter balls any day. I’m really done in.”

The 2015 jungle queen added: “I’m not a dancer or an athlete at all.

“I’m struggling with that.

“But, more than anything, the nerves are just getting the better of me already.

“I’m getting frustrated and finding it hard to pick it up.

“I’m worried about being rubbish, going out first and falling over.

“When I went in the jungle I felt, ‘I can do this, I’m ready’.

“This is the opposite — I’m living on my nerves.”

Vicky says she understood why Pete Wicks smoked so much in the last series.

She said: “I swear to God now I don’t have enough fingers to hold all the fags I want. I am so nervous.”

Vicky credited her husband, TV presenter Ercan Ramadan, for being “supportive, kind and excited”.

She added: “I wish I could be more like him. Nothing fazes him.

“He takes things head on. That’s why we work so well. I am neurotic, I am nervous and a million miles per hour.”

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LOVE Island winner Jess Harding has caused a stir after being spotted cosying up to a mystery man, now unmasked as BBC Three presenter James Blake.

The pair were seen getting cosy at the NTAs after party at London’s O2 Arena, sparking whispers of a new romance.

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Eyewitnesses say the two looked “hot together” and “couldn’t stop laughing and flirting”.

One told The Sun: “From what I could gather, there was definitely a little bit of flirting going on.”

“There was a lot of giggling, a bit of charm, and they looked like they were having a good night for sure.”

Another source told The Sun: “They were introduced at the NTAs after-party and didn’t stop talking for the rest of the night.

“She was being pulled away by her Love Island friends who wanted her to have fun with them, but she kept going back to be with James.

“At the end of the night they exchanged contact details so it looks as though there could be a date on the cards.”

Onlookers say the Love Island bombshell and the BBC star were glued to each other for “nearly an hour”.

Meanwhile, Jess’ pals, some of whom were Love Island co-stars, were seen partying on the dancefloor.

“There was quite a lot of eye contact,” the insider said.

“It seemed flirtatious to me.

“They were definitely enjoying themselves.”

Harding, 24, who won Love Island last year, has enjoyed her singledom after splitting with her ex Ben.

Blake, 32, is a fast-rising broadcaster, fronting BBC Three docs like Hunting the Catfish Crime Gang and Hunting the Online Sex Predators.

The Belfast-born star even scooped the RTS Breakthrough Talent gong in 2024, making him one of the BBC’s most exciting new names.

Jess has been embracing single life lately after splitting with her ex.

We told how she had called it quits with her boyfriend Ben back in July of this year.

Harding won ITV2 show Love Island back in 2023 with her then-boyfriend Sammy Root.

They clinched a shock victory but did not last and split just months after leaving Majorca together.

The Sun has contacted a representative for Jess Harding for comment.

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JON Richardson’s future on Waterloo Road has been confirmed after Jason Manford quit the show after just one series.

The comedy star announced he was joining the show after an April Fools prank claiming he was retiring from comedy to become a teacher.

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He soon announced that was he was actually joining the cast of the school-set drama.

And now The Sun can exclusively reveal that he won’t be a one-series wonder like Jason who bowed out after his first year.

A source said: “There were worries by some that after Jason’s one series stint that Jon would follow suit but that’s not the case.

“He’ll be sticking around for the foreseeable and is really enjoying acting now.”

The star will play the school’s new media studies teacher, Darius Donovan. 

The BBC blurb teases: “With tons of charm, this new teacher knows how to put on a good show, and viewers can expect his arrival to stir things up at Waterloo Road.”

Last year Jon and ex-wife Lucy Beaumont announced their split.

Jon and Lucy tied the knot in 2015 after two years of dating.

The two share one daughter Elsie Louise, eight.

In April last year they announced that they had gone their separate ways.

A statement shared by PA news agency said: “After 9 years of marriage, we would like to announce that we have separated.

“We have jointly and amicably made the difficult decision to divorce and go our separate ways.

“As our only priority is managing this difficult transition for our daughter, we would ask that our privacy is respected at this sensitive time to protect her well-being.

“We will be making no further comment.”

Waterloo Road will return to BBC One and iPlayer on Tuesday September 23.

A DRAGONS’ Den investment winner was caught with cocaine when nicked for punching a restaurant manager over “poor quality service”.

Ross Mendham, 41, struck Connor Humpleby when he intervened in an exchange between the ex-bodybuilder and staff.

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Police were arresting Mendham at The Ivy Norwich Brasserie.

A small plastic bag of white powder then fell to the floor, the city’s JPs were told.

Mendham, of Cringleford, Norfolk, admitted possessing cocaine and assault.

He was fined £373 plus £282 costs.

Read more on Dragons’ Den

He was on BBC’s Dragons’ Den in 2013.

He received £60,000 for instant noodle and pasta venture Barenaked Foods.

He is facing trial next year for allegedly punching his heavily pregnant partner in the face.

He denies assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

DAVINA McCall’s dating show has proven life-changing for one bride after it unlocked a hidden disorder. 

Gorgeous Millie Thompson, 30, has been diagnosed with autism and ADHD after taking part on Stranded on Honeymoon Island having realised her OCD was so intense she considered smuggling in a pair of socks. 

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One of the DJ and model’s quirks was she cannot bear to be barefoot, so she thought about sewing a secret set into her wedding dress. 

The BBC show sees singles marooned on a deserted beach in only their wedding attire. 

Millie told The Sun: “Coming back from the show, I ended up getting tested for ADHD and autism and I found out I have both. 

“I have learnt so much about myself, someone described it as being ‘neuro spicy’ and I love that for me.

“It’s lifechanging really.

“I always knew things like I couldn’t be without a pair of socks, I always have to be wearing a pair, but being on the show made everything clear. 

“This sounds crazy but I was contemplating sewing some socks into the boob bit of my wedding dress, I was like ‘can I smuggle in some socks?!’ but then I was like, no they’ll be disgusting. 

“Now I know that’s why I am how I am. 

“I’ve changed so much from it but in such a good, positive way and everyone has noticed.”

Millie was so conscious of being without her comforts, she had her wedding dress custom made with the experience in mind. 

She included a bodysuit she could wear like a onesie, and a skirt she could detach and use as a mosquito net. 

Millie, from Cheshire, added: “I am such a girly girl, I was combing my hair extensions with a fork. 

“But the experience makes you strip everything back and I thought I’d struggle because I’m so OCD but I actually coped really well.”

Viewers saw her struggle with the show’s dramatic jump into the sea that kicks off their stranded experience. 

“With Love Island there’s other couples and you can escape, but there’s nothing like Stranded for this, you’ve just got each other.”

Millie Thompson

After meeting at the altar, the couples then take a boat out to their deserted beach and then plummet into the sea ahead of a swim to land. 

But poor Millie can’t swim and she had to fit a life vest over her gorgeous wedding dress. 

She said: “That was a massive thing for me because I literally will not get in the water, I can put my feet in but that’s it, so to have to do that was massive.”

But she reckons being out of her comfort zone kickstarted a connection with her groom Jordan in a way that could never happen on Love Island.

While she can’t give away what happens on her journey, Milile added: “You are on a beach with absolutely nothing, you are relying on each other for everything.

“With Love Island there’s other couples and you can escape, but there’s nothing like Stranded for this, you’ve just got each other.”

Stranded on Honeymoon Island continues on BBC One tonight at 9pm, then returns next week on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. 

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The first episodes are already available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

FORMER Prem stars who lost tens of millions in failed investments are demanding justice.

TV pundit Danny Murphy, 48, said he was a victim of “financial abuse” — turning to booze, drugs and gambling after losing about £5million.

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He was among up to 200 players who invested with Kingsbridge Asset Management in the 1990s and 2000s.

It attracted up to £417million before failed ventures led to loss of homes and bankruptcy.

Investors were deemed to be “victims of crime” in a police investigation but are still being chased for millions in tax.

Murphy is one of 11 stars, including ex-Arsenal ace Michael Thomas, calling for more protection from tax charges.

David McKee and Kevin McMenamin, who ran Kingsbridge, denied wrongdoing on BBC’s Panorama last night.

Murphy said he feels “shame” over his involvement.

“It’s the shame, embarrassment and guilt of getting yourself in a position that you think you’re better than,” he said.

“I’ve lost four – maybe five – million, roughly.

“The financial abuse I’ve suffered has caused me monumental problems in my life.”

He added: “The financial abuse in football and the dark side of football, is something that has gone under the radar for too long.”

LOCK, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels star Jason Flemyng has been banned from driving after being caught speeding — at 24mph.

The 58-year-old was pinged in a 20mph zone in his Kia Sorento.

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It was the fourth time Flemyng had been caught speeding in the past year.

He already had 12 points on his licence but had not been banned because of a justice system administrative error.

The actor admitted speeding near his home in Clapham, South West London, on December 5.

He was banned for six months and fined £775.

He told Lavender Hill JPs: “I don’t want to waste the court’s time. I accept what has happened.”

Asked whether he wanted to claim exceptional hardship, the actor, wearing a black suit, said: “Well, my work and what I do for a living, and my charity work, all depend on me driving.

“Maybe I should have thought about that before I drove 24mph in a 20mph zone.”

Flemyng played Tom in Guy Ritchie’s Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and has appeared in Snatch and From Hell with Johnny Depp.

In 2009, the actor joined the cast of the ITV science fiction cult drama series Primeval during its third series, as maverick ex-policeman Danny Quinn and he reprised the role in 2011.

He has been married to actress and producer Elly Fairman since 2007, best known for Blitz, and has also starred in BBC drama series Casualty.

DOC Martin is the latest TV classic hit by trigger warnings — with viewers warned the medical show ­contains “medical procedures”.

The ITV comedy-drama, starring Martin Clunes, features the notice on its ITVX streaming service.

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In one scene, Clunes’ Dr Martin Ellingham is asked to remove a mole from a patient’s face.

The removal is shown from behind, with no blood seen.

But bosses warned the show “contains a mild medical procedure”.

Another episode tells viewers they could see “one scene of moderate peril” after a man gets injured.

And a series three instalment warns of “scenes of injury which some viewers may find upsetting”.

In series six, people are alerted to “bloody scenes of a medical nature”.

Tory MP Sir Alec Shelbrooke said: “The clue’s in the name — it’s a show about a doctor.

“It’s another example of trigger warnings stepping over the line.”

We have told how TV favourites Rising Damp, Father Ted, Midsomer Murders and Michael Palin’s Around The World in 80 Days were also hit with warnings.

ITV was approached for comment.

A FORMER Strictly Come Dancing star revealed signing up for the show was a ‘big mistake’ – having quit due to health struggles.

Comedian and actor Robert Webb was part of the BBC show’s 2021 line-up, partnered with Dianne Buswell.

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The 52-year-old pulled out of Strictly after three dances, on health grounds.

Previously, the comedian had undergone open heart surgery back in 2019.

Speaking to The Times, Robert reflected that he’d accepted the Strictly offer as “these opportunities don’t come along very often.”

He said: “They don’t happen to everyone.

“And I’d just nearly died, so I thought, “This is no time to be sitting on the edges; why don’t you contribute and participate?”

“It all sounded like a good idea at the time.”

Robert added: “It all added up to a big mistake.”

Although he was in “quite good shape” on paper, the star struggled with Strictly’s intense schedule.

He explained: “That schedule is a law unto itself, and I just wasn’t anywhere close to being able to do that.

“I don’t even know if I could now. I don’t think it’d be a very good idea.”

Robert said in a statement at the time of his exit: “I’m extremely sorry to have to announce that I’m withdrawing from Strictly Come Dancing due to ill health.

“Two years ago I had open heart surgery and although I believed I was fit enough to take on Strictly and its demanding schedule, it became clear that I had bitten off way more than I could chew for this stage in my recovery.

“I had begun to feel symptoms that led me to seek an urgent consultation with my heart specialist, and it was her view that it would be better for the sake of my health to step back from the show.”

Actress Rose Ayling-Ellis – then starring in EastEnders – went on to win that year’s series.

Robert is best known for working with David Mitchell as comedy duo Mitchell and Webb,

Earlier this year, The Sun told how the duo are reuniting for a new sketch comedy series.

Joining them are Ghosts actor Kiell Smith-Bynoe, as well as comedians Lara Ricote, Stevie Martin and Kystral Evans.

Strictly Come Dancing airs on BBC One and iPlayer.

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BBC star Michael Ball has been supported by fans after revealing the heartbreaking news that his mum has died. 

The star took to X to share a post of his mum, Ruth Parry Ball, to announce her passing. 

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She looked in great spirits in the throwback photo, in an all white outfit with a wide brimmed hat on. 

Ruth died at the age of 91, and Michael penned to his followers: “Ruth Parry Ball1934-2025x” 

Fans flooded the comments with their condolences, as one person wrote: “Awww Michael I’m so so sorry.  Your heart must be broken.  I honestly know how you feel.  My Mum died on Tuesday and the tears has not stopped.” 

A second person said: “Michael I’m sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family.” 

A third commented: “What a beautiful photo. So sorry for your loss.” 

And someone else said: “So sorry to see this. God bless her and all who love her and will miss her.”

Michael shared a close bond with his mum, and would often post photos of her on social media. 

Last year, he spoke about how they’d celebrated her 90th birthday with a post of them all doing a zipline. 

He said: “We celebrated my dear mum’s 90th birthday this past weekend with a trip to Wales with the whole family. What did we get up to, I hear you ask – well we took a 90 year old on the fastest zipline in the world of course! Mx” 

Michael and his dear mum could be seen smiling away as they got ready to take the zipline on. 

The star has an English father, and his mum Ruth was Welsh.

Michael’s dad is Tony Ball, who was awarded an MBE for services to the industry. 

Meanwhile, Michael was appointed an OBE in 2015 for his services to musical theatre.

As a teenager Ball joined a youth theatre, then studied at Guildford School of Acting.

His first role was in Godspell in Aberystwyth, but he got his first major break in The Pirate of Penzance in Manchester.

He later went on to play Raoul in The Phantom Of The Opera before going on to represent the UK in the 1992 Eurovision Song Contest – where he finished in second place with the song One Step Out Of Time.

More recently, Michael has taken stage roles in shows like Hairspray and Sweeney Todd.

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BBC viewers will be able to watch Premier League highlights this season more than two hours before Match of the Day.

The iconic Beeb highlights programme is set to return to screens this Saturday.

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Play The Sun Dream Team ahead of the 2025/26 season

Mark Chapman will host the first show of the post-Gary Lineker era.

In addition to Lineker’s departure following 26 years in the hotseat, the BBC will be making other changes to its Premier League output.

Match of the Day will continue to provide fans with all the match action plus high-profile punditry.

But fans will be able to watch just the highlights on BBC iPlayer from 8pm.

Despite all the goals and major incidents being available earlier, Beeb chiefs believe that MOTD will still be able to pull in a major viewership.

A BBC press release confirmed: “Published live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app, match highlights from every fixture will drop at 8pm, putting all the biggest moments at fans’ fingertips ahead of the expert analysis and in-depth discussion on the main show.

“It’s a game-changing way to stay connected and fully immersed in the action.”

Chapman, 51, is set to be the first of Match of the Day’s new three rotating presenters to sit in the hotseat.

BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK

The experienced broadcaster will rotate with Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan throughout the season.

Cates, 49, is set to continue her prominent role with Sky Sports alongside her new MOTD duties.

Per the Telegraph, Match of the Day has managed to pull in a 3.5 million average audience over recent seasons.

That is despite plenty of live TV games, streaming and goals being available on social media.

Despite Lineker’s exit, his right-hand men Alan Shearer and Micah Richards will continue as pundit regulars on Match of the Day.

While, as SunSport revealed last month, Wayne Rooney will join the team on a regular basis.

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STRICTLY Come Dancing could be embroiled in a new ‘fix’ row after Dani Dyer claimed she was a ‘qualified dancer’.

Dani Dyer was the second celebrity contestant confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2025, with the announcment being made on The One Show earlier this week.

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Dani, 29, shot to fame when she won Love Island in 2018 – with her new reality stint very different to the dating show.

The daughter of EastEnders actor Danny Dyer will waltz her way around the ballroom in September when she joins the cast of the hit series.

But now it has been revealed that in an unearthed passage from her autobiography, Dani boasted about being a “qualified dancer”.

She said in her 2019 book that she would put “qualified dancer” under the list of qualifications on her CV.

Writing in her book, which came out six years ago, Dani wrote about how she went to theatre school at weekends from the age of 2 to 14.

“It was called O’Farrell’s Stage School and I was a really good little dancer,” she said.

Dani added: “I’m not a bad singer but it was the dance stuff I loved more – jazz, tap, ballet, modern. I’d get home and prance around the house.”

Elsewhere in the book she writes up a mock CV where she states her qualifications include: “Qualified dancer and pretty good at singing (especially Dua Lipa or Ariana Grande at the top of her voice while cleaning the kitchen).”

‘I’D BE HAPPY TO BE WHISKED AROUND’

She also spoke about Strictly in her book, saying how she would jump at the chance of being asked to compete on the hit reality dancing competition.

“If Strictly Come Dancing want to give me a call I’d also be happy to be whisked around the dance floor,” she penned at the time.

At the time of her book coming out, Dani was all loved up with then-beau Jack Fincham, and she said of Strictly: “The only thing I’d be worried about would be the curse.”

In her book from several years ago, Dani also swooned about her bond with Shirley Ballas.

Bonding with her on a trek for Comic Relief, Dani said she was “just the most graceful, lovely person”.

But despite admitting her prior dance experience, fans are still excited to see Dani storm the ballroom.

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Reacting to the news of Dani being confirmed for the series, one person on X said: “Woooo I love Dani!!!”

“Whoop I love Dani! She’ll be awesome,” penned a second.

The Sun has contacted Strictly for comment but they did not immediately respond.

SHOWBIZ BACKGROUND SCRUTINY

Dani is not the only star in Strictly history to have had their background in the world of showbiz scrutinised.

Tasha Ghouri, also from Love Island, had her background in dance.

The star who appeared on the series last year faced a backlash for being a trained dancer and branded the show a “fix” because they signed her up.

Actress Sarah Hadland and JLS’ JB Gill were also accused of having advantages on the show because of their backgrounds and prior careers.

But despite all of their experience, nor Tasha, Sarah or JB won the show.

STRICTLY 2025 LINE UP SO FAR

Gladiator Nitro‘s signing for Strictly was shortly followed by the announcement of three more contestants – Love Island star Dani, Doctor Who actress Alex Kingston and former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink were then revealed.

EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal, who plays the role of Suki Panesar in the hit soap, was then confirmed on Tuesday morning.

With YouTuber George Clarke unveiled on Tuesday afternoon on BBC Radio 1.

Model Ellie Goldstein, who has Down syndrome, was then the seventh celebrity revealed to be waltzing their way onto the dance floor next month, in the groundbreaking signing.

RuPaul‘s Drag Race UK star La Voix was then the next confirmed star to be announced.

And former England rugby union player and captain Chris Robshaw has also been confirmed this week.

THE Repair Shop viewers have demanded the BBC show be axed – after ex-host Jay Blades’ rape arrest.

The Sun reported Blades, 55, has been charged with two counts of rape.

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On Tuesday (August 5), the show returned to its usual 8pm slot, although Blades was not featured.

Writing online, fans have called for The Repair Shop to be axed after nearly a decade on air.

One penned: “Could never see the point of him being in the Repair Shop he never restored anything but worn a new leather apron the show is better without him now.” 

Another added: “Surely you must take the Repair shop off now if the presenter is accused of physical rape.”

A third queried: “Will the BBC be pulling repeats of The Repair Shop now?”

Police confirmed the allegations against the dad of three from Shropshire.

He fronted the hit BBC show for seven years before stepping back last year.

King Charles appeared alongside him on a special episode in 2022.

West Mercia Police confirmed charges against the dad of three, with a magistrates’ court date set for next Wednesday.

A spokesperson said: “Jason Blades, 55, of Claverley in Shropshire, has been charged with two counts of rape.

“He is due to appear at Telford magistrates’ court on 13 August 2025.”

The TV star is currently awaiting trial on a separate charge of controlling and coercive behaviour against estranged wife Lisa-Marie Zbozen, which he has denied.

He was arrested in May 2024 – on the same day fitness instructor Lisa announced her decision to end their 18-month marriage.

In September, Blades was charged.

His actions allegedly caused Lisa “to fear, on at least two occasions, that violence will be used against her”.

The presenter pleaded not guilty to the charge — which relates to the ­period between January 1, 2023 and September 12, 2024 — at a court hearing last October.

As well as fronting The Repair Shop since 2017, Blades also hosted BBC shows including Money For Nothing and Jay Blades’ Home Fix.

NAGA Munchetty “went ballistic” at intern for getting her porridge wrong insiders claim as the host is hit by a bullying probe.

The insider previously worked with Naga, 50, on BBC Breakfast and revealed the host is an “absolute nightmare” and would “kick off about the smallest of issues”.

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A source has claimed that under-fire BBC presenter Naga Munchetty has a reputation for going “ballistic” at junior staff.

They also revealed that she humiliated an intern who didn’t make her porridge perfectly.

An insider told the Mail: “She has a reputation for going at young members of staff and making them out to be fools.

“She would kick off about the smallest of issues, including one time she went ballistic over her breakfast not being prepared exactly how she likes it by an intern.”

This included the occasion where Munchetty refused to eat porridge delivered to her by an intern during an ad break as it was too hot for her to eat in the time she had.

“The guy walked off the set utterly humiliated and went back to chuck it away before trying again in time for the next ad break, it was pretty brutal to watch,” the insider added.

A BBC spokesperson said: “While we do not comment on individual cases, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values. 

“We have robust processes in place and would encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us so they can be addressed.” 

It comes as the BBC is set to launch an investigation into Munchetty following a string of complaints.

The Breakfast host has been placed “under review” while bosses consider escalating matters to a formal investigation. 

A source said bosses had heard from a number of aggrieved colleagues, logging concerns over her “hard” and “bullying” behaviour on BBC Breakfast and her Radio 5 Live show. 

She had also been hauled in by bosses over allegations she made an off-air sex jibe at 5 Live. 

The source said: “Following the amount of people who have come forward to share their experiences with Naga, the BBC has officially moved to place the complaints under review.

“The review is to ascertain whether a full-on investigation is required and that could come in weeks.” 

The Sun previously reported Munchetty faced complaints on 5 Live including a bullying claim and the use of crude, sexual language. 

Bosses were forced to apologise on her behalf after a tense interview with Spice Girl Geri Horner in 2023. 

Munchetty began work on BBC Breakfast in 2014 and covers Thursday to Saturday alongside Stayt, as well as presenting a Radio 5 programme three times a week. 

She is the BBC’s 10th highest earner, on around £355,000. 

We reported since the bullying row had erupted on BBC Breakfast, her team had approached LBC radio to seek out new opportunities. 

FOR a housewife who started out charging ten pence for after-school drama lessons, Sylvia Young had an incredible ability to spot raw talent.

The 85-year-old, who died on Wednesday, helped hone the skills of a who’s who of the ­British entertainment industry.

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Among those to have passed the audition to join her theatre school in London were singers Amy Winehouse, Leona Lewis, Dua Lipa, Rita Ora and three-quarters of All Saints.

Dua, who has won seven Brit awards and three Grammys, said that she did not know she could sing until a teacher at the Sylvia Young Theatre School told her how good she was.

Actors who attended her classes include Keeley Hawes, Doctor Who’s Matt Smith, Nicholas Hoult, who is in the latest Superman blockbuster, and Emmy-nominated Adolescence and Top Boy star Ashley Walters.

The school was also a conveyor belt for EastEnders stars, with Nick Berry, Letitia Dean, Adam Woodyatt and Dean Gaffney all passing through its doors.

Stage fright

But there were problems along the way. In 1998 one of the drama ­masters was arrested for indecent assault, and the company struggled to survive the Covid shutdown.

The pressures of fame also proved too much for some former pupils, including the late Winehouse and EastEnders’ original Mark Fowler, David Scarboro, who was found at the bottom of cliffs as Beachy Head in East Sussex in 1988.

Sylvia, though, was loved by her former pupils, many of whom paid tribute to the “backstage ­matriarch”.

Keeley Hawes wrote: “I wouldn’t have the career I have today without her help”.

And All Saints singer Nicole ­Appleton commented: “This is going to really affect us all who were lucky enough to be part of her amazing world growing up. What a time, the best memories.”

DJ Tony Blackburn added: “She was a very lovely lady who I had the privilege of knowing for many years. She will be sadly missed.”

Actress Sadie Frost commented online: “What a woman, what a family, what a legacy! Sending everyone so much love and support. She was always so lovely to me.”

And TV and radio presenter Kate Thornton said she “meant so much to so many”.

Sylvia did not boast about the ­success of her students and the school’s website does not mention its incredible roster of ex-pupils.

But it is hard to imagine a single drama teacher ever having as much impact as her. Sylvia’s two daughters, Alison and Frances Ruffelle, who are directors of the theatre school, said: “Our mum was a true visionary.

“She gave young people from all walks of life the chance to pursue their performing arts skills to the highest standard.

“Her rare ability to recognise raw talent and encourage all her students contributed to the richness of today’s theatre and music world, even ­winning herself an Olivier Award along the way.”

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Sylvia made it to the top of the British entertainment industry the hard way.

She was the eldest of nine children born to Abraham Bakal, a tailor’s presser, and housewife Sophie in London’s East End. Born in 1939 just after the outbreak of World War Two she remembered the air raid sirens during the Blitz of the capital.

She was evacuated to a village near Barnsley during the war, only returning home once it was over.

At the local library she was gripped by reading plays and would meet up with friends to perform them.

While still at school she joined a theatre group in North London, but her dreams of treading the boards in the West End were dashed by stage fright.

She said: “I used to lose my voice before every production. When I think about it, they were sort of panic attacks.”

Instead, she married telephone engineer Norman Ruffell in 1961 and stayed at home to look after their two daughters.

When Alison and Frances attended primary school, Sylvia started teaching drama to their fellow pupils. It cost just ten pence and the kids also got a cup of orange squash and a biscuit.

Word spread and when her ­students got the nickname the ­Young-uns, Sylvia decided to adopt the surname Young for business ­purposes.

The first Sylvia Young Theatre School was set up in 1981 in Drury Lane in the heart of London’s theatre district.

Two years later, it moved to a ­former church school in Marylebone in central London, where most of its famous pupils got their start.

Even though it is fee-paying, everyone has to pass an audition — and only one in 25 applicants are successful.

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It costs up to £7,000 per term for full-time students and only has places for 250 pupils aged ten to 16.

There are bursaries and fee reductions for pupils from less well-off backgrounds, plus a Saturday school and part-time classes.

Sylvia was always keen to avoid it being a school for rich kids.

When she took an assembly she would ask pupils, “What mustn’t we be?”, and they would shout back, “Stage school brats”.

Keeping kids level-headed when stardom beckoned was also important for the teacher.

She said: “I offer good training and like to keep the students as individual as possible.

“We develop a lot of confidence and communication skills. Of course they want immediate stardom, but they’re not expecting it. You don’t find notices up here about who’s doing what. It is actually played down tremendously.”

‘Baby Spice was lovely’

A need for discipline even applied to Sylvia’s daughter Frances, who she expelled from the school.

Frances clearly got over it, going on to have a career in musical theatre and representing the United Kingdom in the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, finishing tenth.

Those genes were strong, with Frances’ daughter, stage name Eliza Doolittle, having a Top Five hit with Pack Up in 2010.

The ever-rebellious Amy Winehouse, who died in 2011 aged 27 from accidental alcohol poisoning, claimed to have been kicked out, too.

She said: “I was just being a brat and being disruptive and so on. I loved it there, I didn’t have a problem, I just didn’t want to conform.

“And they didn’t like me wearing a nose piercing.”

But Sylvia did not want Amy to leave. She said: “She would upset the academic teachers, except the English teacher who thought she’d be a novelist. She seemed to be just loved. But she was naughty.”

Other singers were clearly inspired by their time at the school, which moved to new premises in Westminster in 2010.

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Dua Lipa, who went to the ­Saturday school from the age of nine, was asked to sing in front of other pupils shortly after joining.

She said, “I was terrified”, but that the vocal coach “was the first person to tell me I could sing”.

Talent scouts and casting agents would put up requests on the notice board at the school. One such ­posting led to Emma Bunton ­joining the Spice Girls.

Of Baby Spice, Sylvia said: “She got away with whatever she could. But she was a lovely, happy-go-lucky individual with a sweet ­singing voice.”

Groups were also formed by ­Sylvia’s ex-pupils.

All Saints singer Melanie Blatt became best friends with Nicole Appleton at Sylvia Young’s and brought her in when her band needed new singers in 1996.

But Melanie was not complimentary about the school, once saying: “I just found the whole thing really up its own arse.”

Casting agents did, however, hold the classes in very high regard.

The professionalism instilled in the students meant that producers from major British TV shows such as EastEnders and Grange Hill kept coming back for more.

Hundreds, if not thousands, of less well-known performers treading the boards of Britain’s stages also have the school’s ethos to thank for their success.

Those achievements were recognised in the 2005 Honours List when Sylvia was awarded an OBE for services to the arts.

Sir Cameron Mackintosh, who has produced shows including Les Miserables and Cats, said: “The show that provided the greatest showcase for the young actors she discovered and nurtured is undoubtedly Oliver! which has featured hundreds of her students over the years.

“Sylvia was a pioneer who became a caring but formidable children’s agent.”