Jacob Elordi and Cailee Spaeny star in the biographical drama which fans have a limited time to watch for free
Samantha King Content Editor
01:00, 05 Feb 2026
The film is based on an autobiography penned by Priscilla Presley(Image: A24/BBC)
A period drama viewers have called “absorbing” and “intoxicating” is currently available for free streaming – but fans keen to watch it only have a limited time to do so.
Director Sofia Coppola’s biopic Priscilla was made available on BBC iPlayer nearly a year ago, and there is now just one month left to watch it before it exits the platform.
The film is based on Priscilla Presley’s memoir, Elvis and Me, and charts her life with legendary rock star Elvis Presley behind closed doors, from their initial meeting to their turbulent marriage. Their relationship has long been a hotly-debated topic given Priscilla was just 14 when she met a then-24-year-old Elvis.
It stars Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla, who earned a Best Actress nod at the Golden Globes for the role, while Jacob Elordi portrays Elvis. BBC iPlayer’s synopsis reads: “Fourteen-year-old schoolgirl Priscilla Beaulieu is accustomed to the unsettled life of an army family.
“Invited to a party at Elvis Presley’s house as he carries out his military service in Germany, the shy teenager catches his eye and is gradually drawn into a strange and unhealthy co-dependent life.”
At time of writing, the film – released back in 2023 – enjoys an impressive 84 per cent critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes. Meanwhile audiences awarded it a lower 64 per cent score on average.
One reviewer gushed: “A tender, poignant drama and an excellent continuation of her muted but no less intoxicating style. It shows [Sofia] Coppola at her most understanding as she presents a complex, multi-faceted love story where two lovers drift apart.”
Another viewer said: “This was probably the most visually stunning movie I’ve seen,” as a third shared: “Great movie! Very engrossing – felt like I was right there with her every step of the way. The chemistry between the lead actors was mesmerizing.”
A fourth added: “A really we done biopic about Priscilla. Truly shows how even in a house full of people she was still lonely. Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi work really we as Elvis and Priscilla, especially with the height difference.”
However one more critical viewer said: “Truth be told, this film is little more than the story of a relationship between child and the childish. A rather tedious, and in parts, even a queasy watch, even for the Elvis fan.”
Priscilla is now streaming for free on BBC iPlayer.For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website.
The beloved snooker icon and BBC commentator has died at the age of 79, reports Wales Online.
Sharing the sad news at the close of Wednesday’s edition of the BBC programme (February 4), TV star JB announced: “Before we go we just wanted to take a moment to mention today’s news about the death of former UK snooker champion John Virgo at the age of 79.”
“Many of us also fondly remember him from his commentating work and his TV programmes like Big Break so of course our thoughts are with his family and his friends,” continued the star.
“Of course,” his co-host Alex Jones acknowledged as she sat beside him on the sofa.
Whilst the presenters paid tribute, a photograph of the late snooker legend appeared on screen.
It was revealed earlier in the day that Virgo had died, prompting a wave of sorrow from his fans and the snooker community.
A statement on the World Snooker Instagram account read: “Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79.
“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV.”
It was shared on the platform alongside a black and white photograph of Virgo with the dates 1946 to 2026.
Fans have been offering tributes on social media following the announcement.
“Aww he was great RIP,” one person wrote on X, which was formerly Twitter.
“To me John Virgo was like Eddie Butler was to rugby commentary, he was the voice of snooker,” remarked another person. Others hailed him as a “legend”.
One fan of the late snooker ace wrote on the platform: “I grew up watching the snooker decades ago and watching John Virgo was always brilliant. His skill as a player was immense but what a great character RIP.”
“Mr Virgo you were very much loved,” they added in the moving post.
This race marks the return of legendary American skier Lindsey Vonn, six years after her retirement from the sport.
Downhill is the 41-year-old’s speciality and she’s won a record 45 World Cup races in this event, plus her only Olympic gold medal in 2010.
We will have to see how much of an affect crashing in the final World Cup downhill before the Winter Olympics hinders Vonn’s bid.
Keep an eye out for her superbly-named compatriot Breezy Johnson, who is the 2025 world champion.
The host nation will be hopeful of at least one podium place, although World Cup champion Federica Brignone only returned to action in January, nine months after breaking multiple bones in her left leg and tearing her ACL during a giant slalom crash at the Italian Championships.
Bergamo native Sofia Goggia took downhill silver four years ago despite suffering a knee injury just 23 days before the event.
Cross country skiing: Men’s skiathlon (11:30-12:50)
It’s a fifth Winter Olympics for Britain’s Andrew Musgrave, whose best Olympic result is seventh in the skiathlon in 2018.
In this event, competitors complete 10km using the classical technique before changing skis and doing 10km using the freestyle technique.
Johannes Hosflot Klaebo is the world champion and this could be the first of a bobble-hatful of golds for the Norwegian at these Games.
Snowboard: Women’s big air qualification (18:30-20:45)
Britain’s Mia Brookes has every chance of becoming Britain’s youngest Winter Olympic medallist for 78 years.
The rider from Cheshire has just turned 19 but has already won back-to-back big air World Cup titles and comes to Italy fresh from winning medals in the X Games.
But she will face a stacked field, including Japan’s Kokomo Murase, Reira Iwabuchi and Mari Fukada, who formed a clean sweep of the medals at last year’s World Championships.
Austria’s Anna Gasser is aiming to win the event for the third Games in a row at the age of 34.
Maisie Hill, whose career was almost ended by a horrific training accident three years ago, will be Britain’s other representative.
Figure skating: Team (20:55)
The team figure skating competition concludes with the men’s free skate.
The USA won gold after the Russian team was demoted in Beijing in a protracted saga that delayed the medal ceremony by over two years.
The USA are the reigning World Team Trophy champions and won three of the four individual events at last year’s World Championships but Japan and Georgia will be pushing them hard.
Snooker legend and BBC commentator John Virgo has died aged 79. Virgo enjoyed an 18-year professional career, but is perhaps best known for presenting popular snooker TV show Big Break alongside comedian Jim Davidson from 1991 to 2002.
BBC’s The Night Manager has aired its second series finale with Tom Hiddleston – and it was packed full of twists and turns
Tom Hiddleston in The Night Manager which has reached its second season climax(Image: BBC)
After six weeks of gripping drama, the second series of The Night Manager reached its explosive finale on Sunday, February 1, leaving viewers captivated as revelation after revelation unfolded.
Eight years following the thrilling season one conclusion which drew over 10 million UK viewers, Tom Hiddleston returned last month to portray former British intelligence operative, Jonathan Pine.
Drawing on the characters conceived by John le Carré, the inaugural series of the BBC’s The Night Manager followed Pine working as a hotel night manager before being enlisted by intelligence officer Angela Burr (Olivia Colman) to penetrate the inner sanctum of international arms dealer Richard Roper (Hugh Laurie).
Those watching the second series discovered Pine living under the alias Alex Goodwin – now a junior MI6 officer managing a modest surveillance unit in London – his existence reassuringly mundane.
Then one evening, a chance glimpse of a former Roper mercenary triggered a call to action and thrust Pine into a brutal confrontation with a fresh adversary: Colombian businessman Teddy Dos Santos (Diego Calva) – who turned out to be Roper’s son, reports Wales Online.
And whilst Roper’s ‘death’ had been established in a flashback, a subsequent twist disclosed he was, in reality, very much alive, paving the way for the duo’s spine-chilling reunion. After weeks of gripping drama, the final episode saw Teddy betray his father – attempting to sabotage the plan to destabilise Colombia.
During nail-biting scenes, despite Pine’s efforts to intercept the plane carrying the weapon, he realised that Roper had switched the aircraft.
As the episode drew to a close, Roper gained the advantage and killed his own son Teddy before escaping the country and reuniting with younger son Danny in the UK. Meanwhile, Pine was offered 50 million dollars to vanish, leave Roper alone, and begin a new life while Angela Burr was murdered in cold blood – all laying the groundwork perfectly for a third series.
Viewers flocked to social media platform X to share their reactions to the shocking finale.
One commented: “The Night Manager had one of drama’s great finishes. It really was one you’ll never forget. The cliffhanger of hangers.”
A second said: “This show is bloody insanely GOOOODDD.” A third posted: “WHAT AN ENDING WHAT A SHOW WHAT A CAST just don’t leave it another 10 years.”
Another added: “Always a twist.” And a fourth said: “Richard Roper is some guy.”
One fan posted: “Well that was splendid viewing and left nicely open for s3.” And another added: “I just hope it doesn’t take another 10 years for season 3.”
However, others were unhappy with the conclusion especially the killing off of Angela. One said: “Well the ending of #TheNightManager was a disappointment especially killing off Angela. Bit flat if I’m honest plus having subtitles that are unreadable is pointless, i just zoned out when they were on the screen.”
Meanwhile, it’s now been confirmed what will be taking over The Night Manager’s coveted Sunday 9pm slot in the coming weeks. Lord of the Flies will debut on Sunday, 8 February.
William Golding’s Nobel Prize-winning novel from 1983 has been adapted for television by screenwriter Jack Thorne, known for his work on Adolescence, His Dark Materials, Help, and Enola Holmes.
An ensemble cast of over 30 young actors, many making their professional debuts, is led by Winston Sawyers as Ralph, Lox Pratt as Jack, David McKenna as Piggy and Ike Talbut as Simon. They’re joined by fellow shipwrecked boys Thomas Connor as Roger, Noah and Cassius Flemming as twins Sam and Eric, Cornelius Brandreth as Maurice and Tom Page-Turner as Bill.
The Night Manager is available to watch on BBC iPlayer
**For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website**
Madeline Duggan starred as EastEnders’ mischievous teenager Lauren Branning for four years, but the 31-year-old actress has come a long way since her days in Albert Square
16:02, 01 Feb 2026Updated 16:02, 01 Feb 2026
She starred in EastEnders’ iconic Christmas episode(Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)
Madeline Duggan looks worlds away from the chaos-creating character who brought to life one of EastEnders‘ biggest moments.
The actress, who originally played Lauren Branning in the BBC soap, looked completely different from her Walford days as she glammed up for a selfie. Madeline, 31, starred as Max Branning’s eldest daughter from 2006 until 2010, with Jacqueline Jossa then taking on the role.
Lauren famously exposed her dad, Max’s, affair with her daughter-in-law, Stacey’s, in the epic 2007 Christmas special, with her shocked family watching a videotape that revealed the sordid secret. Madeline looks nearly unrecognisable from her time on the soap, after leaving more than 15 years ago.
She is all grown up and she is quick to keep fans up to date with what’s going on in her life. Sitting in a black robe, she showed off her stylish cut after showing off some jet-setting holidays in 2025.
In her latest selfie, she wrote: “Dareee l say… I’m really enjoying the Kylie skin tint & Rhodes blush, but this now means I wanna try the Khy B10k foundation.” She quickly followed that up with another Instagram Story, a ‘well-deserved’ Pina Colada.
After leaving EastEnders, Madeline landed roles in the TV show Rules of Love, before securing a role as the character Amy Chester in the acclaimed BBC crime drama Silent Witness.
A year later, the versatile actress starred in the British film Everyone’s Going to Die, cast as the character Laura in a storyline based on a couple embracing their past and moving on with their lives.
In 2017, she played a waitress in the Channel 4 drama Dates and also had a role in Sky Atlantic’s French detective series The Tunnel: Sabotage and Home Alone.
She also appeared in a number of other films during her eclectic career, including Between Us, Spoilt Eggs, and Maybe I’m Fine in 2019. Madeline has also appeared in two music videos, for the bands Feeder and Shaduno, with acting still high on her priority list. But it’s her role in the iconic Max/Stacey affair-reveal that she is best known for.
Arguably one of the most iconic moments in TV soap history, EastEnders viewers were glued to the screen as Max and Stacey’s sordid affair was finally revealed in front of Max’s wife Tanya and Stacey’s husband, Bradley.
After filming the pair on her video camera on Stacey’s wedding day, angry Lauren burned the footage onto a DVD before playing it to the entire family on Christmas Day.
Madeline revealed in April 2020 that she was working part-time in a doctor’s surgery because “being an out-of-work actress doesn’t pay”.
The film The Eagle Had Landed stars Michael Caine, Robert Duvall and Donald Sutherland, and is a hit with movie fans who praised it as ‘not your typical boring war movie’
Michael Caine stars in the war epic
A war film hailed by movie fans as ‘powerful’ and ‘wonderful’ is available to stream now on BBCiPlayer.
The film The Eagle Had Landed stars Michael Caine, Robert Duvall, Donald Sutherland and Jean Marsh, and has become a huge hit with movie fans.
Based on the 1975 novel The Eagle Has Landed by Jack Higgins, the movie follows a German intelligence officer Max Radl in 1943 as he plots to kidnap Winston Churchill during a visit to a small English village. Colonel Kurt Steiner leads a team of disguised paratroopers, aided by Irish agent Liam Devlin. The mission, initially successful, is jeopardised when a soldier’s uniform is revealed during a rescue act, bringing in American forces.
Released in 1977, the film might not have won over critics or earned any Academy Awards but it did earn the affection of fans who have praised it. The film ratings website Rotten Tomatoes is packed with positive reviews, all contributing to the film’s 71 percent rating.
One review said: “Its a brilliant lazy afternoon war film packed with actors you recognise and a wonderful performance from Larry Hagman.”
Another wrote: “Watched the film for the first time recently. It was better than I thought. Great cast and moves quickly.”
A third posted: “This is as much a thriller as a ‘war movie’. It has great characters, a wonderful soundtrack and has an authentic vibe throughout. Suspect negative reviews are from gamers. This film requires thought and attention to fully enjoy. The book is Higgins best and is a really enjoyable read.”
“A powerful beginning, great build-up, an interesting side-story to keep us interested and great finishing action sequences make for a World War II movie that is well worth seeing,” said a fourth.
A fifth added: “A neat little WWII spy thriller. Caine and Duvall are great, and Pleasence and Sutherland ham it up in an agreeable fashion.
“It’s not attempting to reinvent the genre, but it goes about its business with confidence (the steady hand of veteran director Sturges is felt in this regard), and it’s unique in that it presents the story (fairly exclusively) from the point-of-view of the ‘enemy.'”
Another highlighted the star cast as it said: “Michael Caine and Robert Duvall are two of my favorite actors of all time and yet somehow, Donald Sutherland totally steals the show. Awesome story out of the WW2 era. Not your typical boring war movie either.”
“Well made little war film based on the novel by Jack Higgins. Last film directed by Sturges is not as good as “The Great Escape” or “Magnificant Seven” but its not bad. Duval, Sutherland, Caine and Wiliams all do well while Hagman acts like he’s in a different movie entirely,” said another.
Another simply wrote: “One of the best action war movies.”
The Eagle Has Landed is now available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Surrounded by stunning Georgian architecture, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time, and it’s no wonder this city has been used as a filming location for Netflix’s Bridgerton
It’s certainly one of Britain’s most beautiful cities(Image: Joe Daniel Price via Getty Images )
Britain boasts countless cities, each with its own unique character, but one historic gem stands out as possibly England’s most stunning. Its streets exude a timeless charm and relaxed atmosphere, featuring an eclectic mix of independent boutiques and upmarket retailers, while food lovers will find themselves spoilt for choice.
Now, Bath in Somerset looks set to become an even bigger draw for tourists as visitors discover this enchanting city has served as the backdrop for some of Netflix’s most talked-about releases. The globally acclaimed series Bridgerton filmed scenes throughout this Georgian city – and with the latest series now available on Netflix, eagle-eyed fans might recognise some Bath landmarks.
The city also played host to the three-part Agatha Christie Netflix adaptation ‘Seven Dials’, featuring Mia McKenna Bruce, Helena Bonham Carter and Martin Freeman.
I paid a visit last year, though it wasn’t my first trip as I’m based in a nearby county – yet this magnificent place never fails to leave me awestruck. While it has an affluent feel, ordinary residents call Bath home, too.
The city appears pristine and secure, with no shortage of distinctive shops to peruse or purchase from. Magnificent residential areas such as the Royal Crescent in Bath harken back to the 1700s, serving as perfect filming locations for costume dramas, reports the Express.
Properties on Bath’s Royal Crescent have an average selling price of £585,000, as per Rightmove. However, if that’s a bit steep for you, there are plenty of stunning period holiday homes available for short stays while you explore these famous filming locations.
You can actually step foot inside No. 1 Royal Crescent, the fictional home of Bridgerton’s Featherington family. This curved street also served as the backdrop for many of the show’s most memorable scenes.
The Georgian property, No. 1 Royal Crescent, has been converted into a museum, adorned and furnished in the style of the late 1700s, allowing visitors to “step into the lives of the Featheringtons”.
With recent releases from Netflix and BBC, Bath is being tipped as the UK’s “next biggest tourism destination” for 2026. But the city has long been a popular spot for tourists, thanks to its historical landmarks, unique Roman Baths and connections to famed English author, Jane Austen.
To help fans plan the ultimate getaway and immerse themselves in the worlds of Bridgerton and Seven Dials, a UK holiday lodge provider has delved deep into the internet to uncover the Georgian city’s most iconic filming locations from both hit shows.
According to research by holidaylodges.co.uk, there are five must-visit filming locations in Bath.
At the city’s North Parade Buildings, you can follow in the footsteps of Martin Freeman and Mia McKenna Bruce. These honey-coloured old buildings form part of a Grade II listed Georgian terrace.
The leafy location sits near Bath Abbey, which also features in Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials.
The stunning North Parade Buildings can be seen during a sequence where ‘Bundle’ (portrayed by Bruce) tails Superintendent Battle (Freeman).
Meanwhile, Bath’s Great Pulteney Street serves as the setting for Seven Dials’ action-packed car chase sequence. This thoroughfare is frequently described as the city’s most impressive street, stretching towards the magnificent Pulteney Bridge.
This location also serves as an excellent starting point for enthusiasts keen to discover Bridgerton filming locations, with the Holbourne Museum and the Royal Crescent just a brief stroll away.
The cobblestoned Abbey Green square in the city appeared in both Seven Dials and Bridgerton, making it essential viewing for period drama enthusiasts. In Bridgerton, the Abbey Deli frontage in this location doubled as the ‘Modiste’ dress boutique.
Meanwhile, at The Holbourne Museum, guests can discover Lady Danbury’s rather grand home, wandering around the refined exterior and stunning grounds of the museum as though visiting Lady Danbury’s opulent residence in Bridgerton.
The finest accommodation options near Bath, for enthusiasts wanting to transform their screen-inspired visit into a rural retreat, features gorgeous lodging just 30 minutes’ drive from the city, according to holidaylodges.co.uk.
Midnight Moon, a chic, luxury timber-framed lodge boasting a peaceful setting and stunning outdoor area, serves as an ideal base for a restful and scenic retreat near these thrilling filming locations. Rates begin at £465 per night.
The Barn in Wiltshire presents another excellent choice for a peaceful rural escape close to Bath. Featuring French doors opening onto a private courtyard, this superb wooden-clad barn is well-suited for a family, small group or two couples, with prices starting from £171 per night.
The Night Manager season 2 star Indira Varma has shared some devastating news on social media
BBC The Night Manager star shares devastating news as co-stars send support(Image: BBC)
A Night Manager star has shared some devastating news, with her co-stars sending their support. 52-year-old actress Indira Varma is currently portraying villain Mayra Cavendish in the popular BBC spy thriller’s second series.
Just days before the eagerly awaited finale broadcasts, the star revealed some heartbreaking news following the death of her mother. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (January 28), Indira shared multiple photographs of her beloved mum throughout the years, accompanied by a moving tribute.
She wrote: “My dear eccentric Mama has gone at the age of 93. Everything she lived for was Art and adventure. She created for the love of doing not for recognition just for joy. My parents met in the 60s when mixed relationships were frowned upon.
“They didn’t care what other people thought. Life is to be lived with love and joy. Fear is the only thing that makes us hate. That’s it. I’m now an orphan. I miss their tempestuous interactions in a shared 3rd language and how they communicated through music, art, food, travel and Nature,” reports the Express.
Citing Nobel Peace Prize winner Rabindranath Tagore, Indira concluded: “I came to your shore as a stranger, I lived in your house as a guest, I leave your door as a friend, my earth.”
Several of Indira’s famous friends and co-stars flooded the comments with messages of support, including Grey’s Anatomy star Kevin McKidd, who wrote: “I’m so sorry for your loss Indira. Sending much love to you today.”
Ex-Coronation Street actress Millie Gibson commented: “So much love. Thinking of you,” whilst Ariana DeBose and Aimee Lou Wood posted multiple heart and dove emojis.
Countryfile presenter Anita Rani also wrote: “Sending you all my love darling. What a beautiful photo,” with Richard Armitage responding: “Sending my love and condolences to you and your family Indy. What an incredible life your mama had.”
Doctor Who boss Russell T Davies expressed similar sentiments, posting: “I’m so sorry, lots of love darling,” whilst Celebrity Traitors star Mark Bonnar said: “Oh Indira I’m so sorry – what an amazing photo.”
This news comes just days before The Night Manager’s highly anticipated second series finale. The continuation of the acclaimed spy drama sees undercover operative Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston) infiltrate the criminal enterprise of Colombian tycoon Teddy Dos Santos (Diego Calva).
Viewers subsequently discovered that Teddy was actually the son of series one antagonist Richard Roper (Hugh Laurie). Furthermore, the illegal weapons trafficker was shown to have staged his own death, aided by Indira’s character Mayra – head of the Secret Intelligence Service.
Jonathan and Richard, aka Gilberto Hanson, were at last reunited last week, with the MI6 operative hell-bent on dismantling Richard’s criminal enterprise. He subsequently won Teddy’s allegiance after exposing Richard’s intention to cast aside his illegitimate son upon achieving his objectives.
The official synopsis for the finale states: “Pine works with Teddy to bring down Gilberto Hanson’s Colombia coup from the inside. But Hanson has found a new ally of his own. It’s winner takes all.”
Can Jonathan finally defeat Richard for good? That remains to be seen. What we do know is that the drama will return for another series, following lead actor Tom’s confirmation of the show’s renewal earlier this week.
The final episode of The Night Manager season two will air on Sunday (February 1) at 9pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer
Radio 2 DJ Vernon Kay has spoken about meeting up with fellow Children in Need fundraisers has he spends more time looking back at his illustrious and eventful career
Vernon Kay has spoken about his Children in Need challenge(Image: ITV1)
BBC Radio 2’s Vernon Kay fought back tears after opening up about a difficult time and admitted that the pain of his latest challenge was worth it for the amount of money they raised for Children in Need.
Children in Need is the BBC’s annual fundraising extravaganza and part of their fundraising efforts sometimes sees celebrities taking on gruelling physical challenges.
Appearing on BBC Radio 2 at the end of his mammoth journey he told host Zoe Ball: “I’m absolutely exhausted, absolutely spent, physically, mentally. Is there anyone here who can replace a knee?”
Speaking about his work for Children in Need in 2026, Vernon talked about talking to fellow fundraisers Patrick McGuinness and Sarah Cox and how all three became emotional discussing what they’d done.
In 2025 Patrick completed a 300-mile cycling challenge for Children in Need whilst Sara Cox ran, jogged, and walked 135 miles over five days last year.
He told listeners: “I was with Patrick McGuinness and Sara Cox last night, yesterday afternoon, we were talking about Children In Need.
“Very emotional for all three of us I’ll be honest with you, every time each time one of us talked about what we’d done for children in need you could see us all welling up.
“But it’s not because of what we did but because of what you did, so once again thank you for that. The pain was worth it.”
This isn’t the first time Vernon has talked about important moments from his past as he recently looked back 29 years and shared a moment which he says changed his life.
The Bolton-born broadcaster said in a social media video discussing his modelling career and how it was getting scouted as a youngster that changed his life. His modelling work helped spark a career in broadcasting.
Following a stint as a magazine model Vernon, now 51, moved into presenting and went onto host shows such as T4, All Star Family Fortunes, and shows on BBC Radio 1 and Radio X.
Writing in a post on Instagram alongside a photo of himself, he said: “Dec96 Got scouted by @selectmodellondon @jameslnoel and it’s the day that changed my life! [heart emoji].
“Taking a look back at my modelling days….kind of a pivotal moment for me [crying laughing emojis]. This is the one picture people always throw at me but I don’t think it’s THAT bad. #BlueSteel.”
The BBC Breakfast presenter shared a major career announcement as he was supported by fans
BBC Breakfast presenter Ben Boulos announced his exit earlier this month (Image: BBC)
Former BBC Breakfast presenter Ben Boulos has announced his new TV role, weeks after his exit from the broadcaster.
Ben recently shared his final day on the red sofa, saying: “Just before we finish, just to share a bit of news about me. It’s my last appearance on Breakfast for the time being, I am off to take a new job elsewhere.
“But I will miss this place, I will miss this programme a lot.”
Becoming emotional, he continued: “I have had the most wonderful time on Breakfast.
“I just want to say thank you to the brilliant teams that we work with and above all thank you to everyone watching at home for letting me be a part of your mornings.
“It has been a real pleasure and a privilege.”
The presenter had appeared on Business Live, Talking Business, BBC World News and more over the last 16 years, and has now confirmed his new role.
Taking to Instagram, he shared: “Here it is… Very excited that I can now share news about my new job with you all – and delighted to be joining the brilliant team @cnbcinternational @cnbc in London where I’ll be an anchor on #SquawkBoxEurope alongside Karen & Steve, 5 mornings a week. More details on how you can watch and when, coming soon. Cannot wait to get started!”
Ben joins Karen Tso and Steve Sedgwick in early February, as Julianna Tatelbaum begins maternity leave, a press release announced.
It read: “Together, Ben, Karen and Steve will cover the most important market-moving and complex stories of the day.”
“I am delighted that Ben is joining the CNBC International team,” Head of TV News for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Leonie Kidd said.
“His specialist knowledge of global business and economics, combined with years of experience presenting to audiences across the UK and worldwide, will be an incredible asset. Ben’s ability to make complex financial stories clear and engaging is exactly what we need as we continue to grow our coverage and connect with new audiences.”
Ben was showered in support from his followers, with one writing: “Wishing you the very best in this new chapter!”
Another said: “Congratulations! This is very exciting news! Good luck on the new adventure. Least you are used to those morning alarms!”
“Just wonderful. Well done,” a third wrote, as another said: “How exciting. You’ll be fabulous I’m sure.”
Ben had previously teased his new role on social media, saying: “After 16 years of working at the BBC I will be leaving at the end of this week. My last shift will be presenting BBC Breakfast on Sunday 11 January.
“I’ve had the most wonderful decade and a half here, working with many brilliant people, a lot of that time spent working in that building there, but of course, those of you with long memories will remember that my BBC journey started in Chelmsford at BBC Breakfast, then onto Look East, Five Live, before coming here to work at BBC World News, BBC News Channel, World Service Radio, and then of course Breakfast up in Salford, where I’ve been working for most of the last three years.
“However, it is time for a change, a new challenge, a new year. I’m leaving to go and take up a very exciting opportunity elsewhere.
“All I will say at the moment is that I will still be in broadcasting, I will still be presenting on television, but I will share more details about it with you soon.
For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website
“But in the meantime, I just wanted to say, thank you for the messages and comments of support and encouragement over the past years, and a thank you for taking an interest and following me on here and I cannot wait to share the next chapter of my journey with you.”
He captioned the clip: “New year, new start, new challenge. A big change for me in 2026 and exciting times ahead!”
BBC Breakfast airs from 6am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Alan Sugar’s iconic boardroom has seen some hugely talented business folk walk through his doors, whereas some The Apprentice hopefuls have been less successful…
22:35, 29 Jan 2026Updated 22:35, 29 Jan 2026
The Apprentice is back, and now there are 18 hopefuls left fighting it out for £250,000.(Image: Ray Burminston/PA Wire)
Both outgoing candidates on The Apprentice insisted tonight Lord Sugar was wrong to fire them – with one businesswoman taking weeks to get over his decision.
To mark series 20 of The Apprentice, Lord Sugar sent his 20 candidates to Hong Kong, one of the world ’s most vibrant trading hubs, tasked with securing nine items at knock down prices. But both the male and female teams struggled with the unknown geography, tight deadlines and business basics.
After setting up the boardroom outside of London for the first time he sent Nikki Jetha and Georgina Newton packing, as their female team only bought two items, with half the team also almost two hours late to the finish line which led to further penalties.
Looking back, actress and events manager Georgina, 31, said: “I didn’t deserve to be fired. I think in the first episode, I probably contributed more than anybody on my team, and I think for the show, the person that contributes the least should go home. I thought I had a few more weeks, at least, left in me. I was devastated. I spent two weeks feeling sorry for myself but then I picked myself back up, put myself back together and then cracked on ready for the next thing. But I was really sad.”
However, it was not all bad news as Georgina got to travel long-haul for the first time in her life and insisted she had learned a great deal. She added: “I’ve been performing in theatre all of my life. I’ve always played a character, and I think for a lot of my life, I’ve hidden behind being somebody else, and being in this process, it’s the first time I’ve ever done anything just as Georgie. And I think what I realise the most from this is that I am enough just as I am. I can hold my own. I’m enough, and I think that’s a really lovely takeaway.”
Niki, who was project manager for the task and amongst those arriving late, insisted she should not have been fired because she led on the challenge for the unorganised female team. The 33-year-old said: “I did not get to show more of myself and what I’m capable of, but I definitely don’t feel defeated. You know, I stepped forward, I took a risk and I own the outcome.
“I was brave enough to stand up and take on a challenge during the first task. It was, you know, unfamiliar territory. Not knowing the process, let alone the country, and not having the internet and things like that. But I did the best I could do under the pressure, with limited information, and I’d rather be fired for stepping up than staying safe in the background. There’s a saying that ships are safest in the harbour, but that’s not what they’re built for.”
Laying into some of her teammates but refusing the name people she added: “There were some people who weren’t team players, and they didn’t contribute. You know, they spent more time complaining and moaning, as opposed to giving ideas and working out how we can push forward.”
Georgina now has a job selling items for brands on TikTok and hopes to land a job on a shopping channel whilst Niki is back at her old job and raising a family.
She concluded: “I’m doing exactly what I do best. I’m a mortgage advisor, I’m still advising my clients, growing my business and building my brand, but ultimately, I’m still a mum, family-focused, but I’m definitely not slowing down, and this is not the last you have seen of me.”
* The Apprentice continues on BBC1 and BBCiPlayer on Thursdays at 21.00.
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They’ve spent the last four summers in searing heat but next year they won’t be needing to pack a bikini or trunks
17:32, 29 Jan 2026Updated 17:32, 29 Jan 2026
Next time around they’ll need to pack anoraks rather than swimwear… as they head north(Image: BBC)
Amanda Holden and Alan Carr will return with a fifth series of their hit BBC1 property renovation show next year – but this time it will have a very different feel.
Because while the shows have so far been set under the hot Mediterranean sun in Italy, Spain and Greece – the next one is going to be a lot chillier. For the first time, the pair will be taking their lump hammers and hard hats and heading to Scandinavia.
Alan told the Mirror: “The producers are looking at Sweden or Norway for the next one. I think maybe it will be an eco-house up there. It will probably be an igloo or something, knowing them.” He said that moving the popular programme to a different landscape within a Nordic country was a very good idea. “I think there’s only so many times you can sort of look at a tile in the heat and go, ‘You need this…’” he laughed.
“And actually, I’m never going to be like Handy Andy, but I do know how to use a drill now – so it just feels like I do need another challenge. It will be something very different. We’re excited. And it will be so nice to not be working in the searing heat.”
The series kicked off with The Italian Job, which filmed in the summer of 2022 in 40 degree temperatures. It was similarly sweaty in Tuscany the following year, and again in Andalusia for The Spanish Job in 2024. And there was no respite from the heat of high summer during filming on The Greek Job, currently entertaining 4million viewers every week, which was filmed in Corfu last summer.
But the temperature in the north of Norway during July can be just 10 degrees, and while further south it tends to be around 20 degrees – the same as the average Swedish temperature – the experience is guaranteed to be far fresher for them next time around.
In the show, which always airs on BBC1 from January, the pals don boiler suits and grab power tools to renovate and decorate a dilapidated property which is then sold off, with all profits going to the BBC charity Children in Need.
The new project is likely to focus on using natural and sustainable materials to create a well-insulated and energy efficient home which respects the local landscape. It may involve solar panels or a green moss roof, plus plenty of timber.
The Italian properties featured on the series each cost just 1Euro to buy, then sold for £125k and £185k respectively. The Spanish house also made a tidy profit, having been bought for £55k and sold for over £200k. “That’s good, because the money goes to charity as well, so it’s really positive,” Alan said. One reason that the filming location needs to stay within Europe – rather than moving further afield – is so that Amanda, 54, can travel back and forth to present her Heart Radio breakfast show.
Alan and Amanda were both delighted when the production team chose Corfu for the current run, because it is a regular holiday destination for Amanda and her family, and Alan, 49, has even joined them there.
But when they arrived on the idyllic Ionian island ahead of filming, they were horrified by what they found. “It’s a dump,” Alan lamented about the house, while Amanda agreed it was “definitely the worst” they had encountered. Nevertheless, they soon set about turning it into a dream family escape, with their efforts on display in the final two episodes from Friday.
The pair believe that the secret of their success is that “we muck in and we encourage each other”. Alan has told how, after four years, he’s even started to have fun while knocking down walls. “I have got much better,” he said of his skills earlier this month. “I was thinking, the latter end of The Greek Job, I was actually enjoying it, and I’ve never, ever enjoyed DIY.”
They said that making the series had deepened their friendship and they now texted each other on a daily basis. “We are the same,” Amanda explained. “We laugh at the same stuff. The worst time was when he was filming The Traitors and I didn’t hear from him for three weeks. I knew he must have done quite well because he was gone for so long.” After seeing Alan’s triumph on The Celebrity Traitors, Amanda is now in talks to take part in the next series later this year.
So much has happened over the past seven days, including Australian Open grudge matches, X Games extremes and a manic marsupial.
About 14% of quizzers got full marks in last week’s edition. Will you make the grade this week?
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Monarch of the Glen debuted at the dawn of the new millennium, enchanting viewers with its warm-hearted comedy-drama format. The BBC programme chronicles young restaurateur Archie MacDonald (portrayed by Alastair Mackenzie) as he attempts to revitalise his childhood residence in the Scottish Highlands.
Archie found himself drawn back to Scotland from his hectic London restaurant career after discovering he’d inherited his family’s Highland titles and property, becoming the Laird of Glenbogle.
He subsequently made the difficult choice to abandon his metropolitan existence and begin anew whilst managing the crumbling estate, alongside its enormous debts and dealing with Glenbogle’s temperamental workforce.
Archie had the support of his partner Justine (Anna Wilson-Jones), whose decision to accompany him to Scotland meant she too relocated for their relationship. Throughout the series, viewers keenly followed Archie’s journey to determine whether he could ultimately transform the estate into a profitable venture, despite numerous challenges blocking his progress.
The series has garnered glowing praise on IMDb, with one viewer awarding it 10/10 in a review headlined “Excellent series, quirky, charming”. They wrote: “The writing is very consistently good, the characters appealing (their quirks and foibles make them even more so), and the scenery of the Scottish highlands is just lovely.”
Another highly-rated review declared: “Amazing, makes you fall in love with Scotland and its people.”
The reviewer expanded: “I love the values expressed through the show: honesty, faithfulness, character, faith, friendship, hard work, dependability, and above all forgiveness and reconciliation. I love how the themes are developed and I love the beautiful Scottish scenery.”
A third top-rated review hailed Monarch of the Glen as a “great series”, concluding: “Overall I’d give it 10/10 though for the drama/acting and of course Scottish scenery.”
Another fan declared: “The series, “Monarch of the Glen” is the best that telly has had to offer in a very long while.”
They continued: “The scenery is just as much the star of the show yet it is not used as an excuse for slack plot standards. Indeed it is part and parcel of the plot.”
The programme was loosely based on Sir Compton Mackenzie’s Highland Novels, though whilst the books were set during the 1930s and 1940s, the BBC adaptation took a more modern approach. Nevertheless, the programme takes its name from the opening novel in the series, The Monarch of the Glen, which references the renowned painting of the same title by Sir Edwin Henry Landseer.
Monarch of the Glen spanned seven series altogether and was filmed across numerous stunning locations, including the Cairngorms, Badenoch and Strathspey.
Meanwhile, Ardverikie House provided the main setting for the castle featured in the programme, with additional filming occurring around the south-east shore of Loch Laggan where the property is situated.
Alongside Mackenzie and Wilson-Jones, Monarch of the Glen boasted a stellar cast including beloved The Good Life actor Richard Briers, Emmy Award-winner Susan Hampshire, Human Traffic’s Lorraine Pilkington, Taggart’s Alexander Morton, Holby City’s Dawn Steele, fellow Holby City veteran Hamish Clark, and Downton Abbey creator-turned-performer Julian Fellowes.
Monarch of the Glen represents Fellowes’ most substantial acting role to this day, portraying Lord Kilwillie across 24 episodes.
Fellowes has previously appeared in productions such as Aristocrats, Sharpe, Our Friends in the North, and Kavanagh QC.
Monarch of the Glen is streaming on BBC iPlayer now
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The 2023 film follows childhood friends coming to terms with a devastating loss
The touching 2023 drama is now streaming for free on BBC iPlayer(Image: Haymarket Films )
A touching drama that kept viewers glued to their screens has landed on BBC iPlayer just in time for your midweek viewing.
First hitting screens in 2023, Kindling marked writer-director Connor O’Hara’s feature film debut.
Though he was a fresh face in the industry, O’Hara worked with an impressive cast including Sex Education’s George Somner and fellow Netflix actress Mia McKenna-Bruce (Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials).
The heartfelt drama follows a group of young men who return to their hometown for one last summer with their terminally ill friend, Sid (Somner).
Coming to terms with his mortality, Sid creates a plan to make the summer unforgettable. He gathers his friends and tasks each of them with finding an item that connects their group to either love, home, friends, family or location.
As a science nerd, Sid plans on burning every beloved item to immortalise his memory in the form of particles lingering in the atmosphere.
As you can expect, the film dives into heavy themes including grief and terminal illness. But it also explores uplifting topics such as the importance of friendship.
Although Kindling didn’t capture much attention upon its debut, fans who caught it were completely captivated.
Taking to Rotten Tomatoes, one viewer praised: “Very touching film with some fantastic performances by such a young cast! The filmmakers did a great job of handling such complex subject matter without it feeling heavy-handed. I hope more people see this film!”
Meanwhile an IMDb user dubbed it as “a classic in every way,” before adding: “Kindling kept me glued to the screen in a trance.”
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A third viewer shared their own glowing review: “Overall, Kindling is a touching and beautifully made film that will leave you feeling grateful for the people in your life. It is a celebration of life and friendship, and a reminder to cherish every moment we have. Highly recommended.”
While a Letterboxd user enthused: “One of those deeper films about real friendship, love and loss. This in many ways is about how loss affects the individuals, the friends, family members and an outsider. Thought provoking, sad, happy and very real. A film which needs to be watched more than once.”
However, someone else warned: “Be prepared to cry if you’re gonna watch this.”
Featured in an ensemble of 30 boys are Winston Sawyers as Ralph, Lox Pratt as Jack, David McKenna as Piggy, and Ike Talbut as Simon. Joining them are additional castaways, including Thomas Connor as Roger, Noah and Cassius Flemyng as twins Sam and Eric, Cornelius Brandreth as Maurice, and Tom Page-Turner as Bill.
The series, marking the first television adaptation of Lord of the Flies, chronicles the terrifying tale of schoolboys marooned on a tropical island without adult supervision following a catastrophic plane crash.
Whilst battling to stay alive and as hostilities mount, they turn against one another with deadly results, reports the Express.
In a bid to maintain order, they establish a hierarchy under Ralph’s leadership and Piggy’s cleverness.
Yet as Jack grows increasingly obsessed with hunting and competing for control, he lures the other boys away, leading to devastating outcomes.
The BBC production will stay true to the source material, positioned in the early 1950s on an unidentified Pacific island, though Thorne’s version will explore more profoundly the novel’s key themes: mankind’s nature, the erosion of innocence, and masculine boyhood.
Each of the four instalments bears the name of a protagonist central to the narrative – Ralph, Piggy, Simon, and Jack – presenting their individual viewpoints in their fight for survival.
In a spine-tingling first glimpse trailer, the lads start learning to survive independently on the island, scavenging for sustenance and seeking refuge.
As one declares, “We need to help each other, and we need to be good campmates,” another responds, “We’re going to hunt pigs and get meat for everybody.”
Their politeness descends into chaos as they clash with one another, with fires blazing ominously in the backdrop of certain sequences, whilst the youngsters resort to brutality and even killing.
The BBC revealed: “A classic reborn for television – Lord of the Flies is the story of a group of young schoolchildren who find themselves stranded on a tropical island with no adults, and where civilisation turns to violence and chaos.”
The riveting preview has already captivated audiences, with one commenting: “This looks incredible, I can’t wait!”
Another remarked: “Still traumatised from reading this,” whilst a third penned: “Looking forward to it.”
During a recent chat with The Times, Jack discussed the adaptation, revealing: “The world in which Golding was writing and the pain he was observing – I think we’re living in a very similar age now.”
“I find the ending of the book bleak and I find the journey of the book bleak, but I find the portrait of children not to be bleak,” he continued.
Lord of the Flies will be available to watch on BBC iPlayer from February 8.
The duo are part of a competitive team of journalists in a 1980s Australian newsroom, with Torv playing the channel’s first female newsreader, Helen Norville.
After fighting various barriers to make her way to the top, Helen gets paired up with producer Dale Jennings (Reid).
Viewers are then thrust into the duo’s personal and professional lives as they cover major historic events such as Halley’s Comet and the AIDS crisis.
Created by Michael Lucas, the workplace drama debuted in 2021 and aired for three seasons. Each instalment earned overwhelming praise from critics and casual viewers alike.
Rotten Tomatoes reviewers awarded the drama a perfect 100% score for its first two seasons, with no score available yet for the third instalment.
Torv and Reid were showered with praise following the release, with one IMDB user raving: “The biggest news to come from the Aussie drama ‘The Newsreader’ is that Sam Reid (Dale Jennings) is sensational.”
“I suggest that his career is about to take off epically. I could see him as the next James Bond!”
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Someone else agreed: “The Newsreader is a brilliantly acted and written drama series. I absolutely love TV shows that are based around historic events and this is the best example since Mad Men.”
While a third fan shared their detailed verdict: “I consider this show a bit of a hidden gem, especially because I discovered it completely by coincidence. It’s difficult to put into words what an intense viewing experience it is.
“The backdrop setting of a 80’s newsroom is so delicious it feels like it could have been written for me personally. The rise and decay of these characters, especially the two leads BRILLIANTLY portrayed by Anna Torv and Sam Reid, is extremely captivating.”
