A former Strictly Come Dancing contestant has said they want to return to the BBC show
Anita Rani says she was “robbed” on Strictly(Image:
BBC
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Anita Rani, the Countryfile star and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant, has confessed she’ll “never get over” her time on the dance show. The 48 year old telly favourite took part in the BBC competition a decade ago, narrowly missing out on the final by just two weeks.
She was partnered with professional dancer Gleb Savchenko during her stint on the show, which saw The Wanted’s Jay McGuiness and his partner Aliona Vilani take home the coveted Glitterball Trophy.
Soap stars Georgia May Foote of Coronation Street and EastEnders‘ Kellie Bright were the runners-up that year. However, Anita is still convinced she was “robbed” of a place in the final alongside Aliona.
In a chat with The Sun’s TV Magazine, she revealed: “I wish I could do it again – I think they should bring back ‘the robbed’! I’ll never get over it, I should have got to the final.”
During the semi-final, Anita found herself in the dreaded dance-off against BBC presenter Katie Derham. Despite giving it her all, it was Katie and her partner Anton Du Beke who progressed to the grand finale, reports Wales Online.
Anita confessed that she used to turn down reality shows like Strictly, but has recently decided to say “yes” if the “offer arise”. Since then, she’s appeared on popular programmes such as Celebrity Gogglebox, The Chase, and Blankety Blank.
She even hinted that she’d consider joining the cast of Celebrity Traitors if the BBC decides to commission a second series. Meanwhile, Anita and her dad Bal are gearing up for their appearance on Celebrity Race Across the World.
She added: “I used to say no to other reality shows, but now I’m like: ‘If an offer arises, why not?’ The Traitors, I’m A Celeb… But I’ll tell you what me and Dad want to do next – Antiques Road Trip. Let’s put that out there!”.
Before taking part in the travel programme, Anita confessed she wanted her father to enjoy “an adventure”.
She told the BBC: “We get on, he makes me laugh and if I ever want help in making a decision, dad’s the person I call.
“Also, I want dad to have the experience. It’s about my dad having an adventure – he’s never had one before. I think we’re competitive, but I think we’re just really keen to have an amazing experience and give it our best shot.”
The Woman’s Hour presenter reveals she’s currently in a “new era” following the “confirmation” of her fresh romance with partner Alex Lavery.
This comes two years following her separation from spouse Bhupi Rehal. The former pair had been wed for 14 years before they ended their marriage.
Following their break-up, she revealed to Love Sunday Magazine: “‘Life is good, I’m in a good place. I’m focusing on myself and my own wants.
“It’s nice to be able to think about the second phase of my life. I’ve been calling it Chapter Two.”
BBC Breakfast returned once again on Saturday 1 November
BBC Breakfast host Naga Munchetty quipped ‘what’s going on this weekend’ during Saturday’s show(Image: BBC)
BBC Breakfast host Naga Munchetty quipped ‘what’s going on this weekend’ during Saturday’s show.
During the latest instalment, Naga, 50, and co-host Charlie Stayt reported on the world’s largest cake decorating show in Birmingham called Cake International.
Naga and Charlie, 63, were shown a series of creations from the event, which included a Jim Carrey inspired cake, a troll cake and some Halloween inspired creations.
However, Naga didn’t find the Halloween creations too appetising as she admitted: “I don’t want to eat that character’s teeth!”
To which Charlie responded: “It would be so wrong to slice into something created… they’re basically works of art, aren’t they? I do not know how they make those cakes like that!”
Naga then asked Charlie of the Halloween cake creation: “Would you eat the teeth or the eyeballs of that cake?”
To which Charlie admitted: “I think I’d choose to just leave it there and not touch it. I’d make a separate cake for eating and just have that one to look at.”
Yet weather presenter Louise Lear was quick to join in as she admitted over the creation: “I’d eat anything at the moment, I’m starving!”
To which a horrified Naga asked: “Would you eat the teeth on that one?” with Louise joking: “I haven’t had breakfast, anything, Naga, particularly if the icing is good!
“I mean, I’m one of those people. I’m a bit of a grazer, so I might just kind of, you know, have a little bit and then keep going back to it, yeah.
“But I’d have gone for the troll’s head straight away. Chopped it off. What does that say about me?”
To which an animated Naga joked: “Even more brutal. There’s no messing with you two. What’s going on this weekend?”
Cake International is the biggest cake decorating and baking event in the world.
It runs for three full days at National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham. It opened on Friday the 31st of October and ends on Sunday the 2nd of November.
BBC Breakfast continues every day at 6am on both BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
BELOVED actor Tchéky Karyo has died of cancer at the age of 72.
Karyo was best known for his starring role in the film Nikita, James Bond hit GoldenEye and in the popular BBC series The Missing.
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French actor Tchéky Karyo has died of cancer at the age of 72Credit: AFPKaryo was best known for his stand out performance as Julien Baptiste in the popular TV series The MissingCredit: PA:Press Association
His passing was announced by his wife, actress Valérie Keruzoré, and their two children.
They released a heartbreaking statement saying the French film star had “succumbed to cancer this Friday, October 31”.
At the time, the beloved actor said about the reprisal of the role: “I didn’t expect it, but it’s flattering. This has made me feel young again.”
The creators of Baptise had even teased another season of the mystery thriller earlier this summer.
Earlier on his career Karyo found global success on several top projects.
He played the handler Bob in Luc Besson’s assassin film Nikita in 1990.
Other major roles included Ridley Scott’s historical epic 1492: Conquest of Paradise and the James Bond film GoldenEye.
Born in Istanbul, Turkey, Kayro started out in French cinema in the 1980s.
His first major film role came in crime thriller La Balance in 1982.
His stellar performance even earned him a nomination for the César Award for Best Male Revelation.
One of his most recent roles came in 2023 when he joined forces with the BBC once again for the comedy thriller, Boat Story.
Kayro had 140 roles across his decorated career in both film and TV.
He was also a singer songwriter with two albums being released in 2006 and 2013.
One of his most recent roles came in 2023 when he joined forces with the BBC once again for the comedy thriller, Boat StoryCredit: PAKaryo poses during a photoshoot as part of the 54th Monte-Carlo Television Festival in MonacoCredit: AFP
Karen Hauer has hit back at the judges after her Argentine tango split the panel on last week’s heat of Strictly Come Dancing where she set an Argentine tango to an Usher track
Karen Hauer has hit back at the judges after her Argentine tango split the panel on last week’s Strictly (Image: BBC)
Karen Hauer has hit back at the judges after her Argentine tango split the panel on last week’s Strictly Come Dancing. The professional dancer, 43, crafted a routine set to Usher track Caught Up and it received a mixed reaction from Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke.
During an appearance with celebrity partner Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who is known for starring on BBC’s Gladiators, on Friday’s Halloween edition of It Takes Two, Karen was asked if she will be avoiding the dance from now on. She joked: “”Probably! That’s fine.”
She added: “No, do you know what? I absolutely loved that and it’s just a shame sometimes. If you want me to do an Argentine classical, then give me the music and I’ll do it. I got the assignment!”
“That was the assignment! Literally. I was just a bit like…we had a really beautiful balance. The judges have a really hard job to do, I just wish they liked it!”
During the live show, Craig claimed that the couple, who eventually received a combined score of 30 for their efforts. seemed to simply be ‘walking’ the routine. He said: “I felt like you were walking through it, standing, placing, standing, placing and not actually dancing step to step.
“And I wasn’t entirely fond of throwing all the groove stuff in there.”
But Harry was not afraid to hit back at the comments as they happened. He said: “I was given a task to do an Argentine tango to Usher. I took it on, I done it to the best of my ability and that’s all I can do.” The dance was all done as part of Icons week, and big music names like Dolly Parton, Spice Girls and Johnny Cash were also honoured, amongst a whole host of others.
Fans at home rushed to social media to defend Harry and Karen amid the negative feedback. One said: “Why have an Icons week, make the celebs dance to music that’s not really suited to the dance then criticise them for bringing a bit of the icon’s style into the dance? Bal and Harry especially.”
Another said: “what are they even talking about obviously an argentine tango to USHER is gna be a little different #Strictly” and a third added: “I dont get the “whyd you add groove/ bump n grind” comments… you gave the guy Usher to mimic?? with an argentine tango?? so like what was he supposed to do.”
Harry has already had a taste of Strictly before making his debut as a contestant on this year’s series. He appeared on last year’s Christmas special where he was partnered with professional dancer Nancy Xu.
The sports star bagged one of the highest scores in the episode but lost to RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Tayce, who had danced with Kai Widdrington.
Announcing his return for the new series, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey said: “After the Christmas Special, it was so nice I just had to do it twice! I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly family this series and I’m ready to give it all I’ve got.
“I’ll be bringing tons of energy to light up the dance floor. Let’s hope I’m as quick picking up the routines as I am on the track.”
The horror film is hands down considered to be one of the scariest movies of all time and it’s only available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer for 16 more days.
The movie is currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer
The legend of the Blair Witch is easily one of the scariest tales to do the rounds in modern memory — and it all stemmed from a harmless horror film.
The Blair Witch Project (1999), written, directed and edited by Eduardo Sánchez and Daniel Myrick, is hands down considered to be one of the scariest documentary-style horror movies of all time.
It not only introduced the ‘found footage’ genre to horror films — seen since then in blockbuster hits like the Paranormal Activity franchise — but it’s also one of the most successful independent films of all time, originally made on a budget of $35,000–$60,000, with the final cost rising to between $200,000 and $750,000 after marketing and post-production.
The pseudo-documentary centers around three students, played by Heather Donahue, Joshua Leonard, and Michael C. Williams, who set off on a hike into the Appalachian Mountains near Maryland’s Burkittsville to film a documentary about the Blair Witch — a local urban myth of the community.
Currently available to watch for free on BBCiPlayer for the next 16 days, the legend of the fictional Blair Witch was conceived by Sánchez and Myrick in 1993. The director-editor duo developed a 35-page screenplay in which the dialogue was to be improvised. Entering production in October of 1997, principal photography of The Blair Witch Project lasted all of eight days in total.
Close to 20 hours of footage was shot for the docu-film, which was then edited and whittled down to 82 minutes. The film first premiered at midnight on January 23, 1999 at the famed Sundance Film Festival and received rousing acclaim, following which its distribution rights were acquired for $1.1million.
It eventually received a theatrical release and went on to become a sleeper hit, grossing close to a whopping $250million at the global box-office. The Blair Witch Project is consistently listed as one of the scariest movies ever, and consistently ranks as the best found footage movie of all time on several prestigious lists. However, despite the movie’s success, the three main actors of the film reportedly lived in poverty till they sued the film studio that acquired its rights, eventually reaching a settlement worth $300,000 in 2000.
With a 86 per cent critics approval rating on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, the documentary-style film is widely critically lauded. One reviewer says of the film: “[The Blair Witch Project is] the most effective and unsettling horror movie in quite a long time. Just to clarify: after seeing this, you will not sleep well. Invest in a night-light.”
While another writes: “The Blair Witch Project” is the scariest movie I’ve ever seen. Not the goriest, the grossest, the weirdest, the eeriest, the sickest, the creepiest or the slimiest… Just flat out the scariest.”
A third critic has said: “No sequel or remake will ever match the power of what The Blair Witch Project managed to do a quarter of a century ago.”
While a fourth critic said: “I could tell you the story — give away every detail — and The Blair Witch Project would still freeze your blood.”
Viewers are equally impressed by the film, with one writing: “This movie is pure horror, it’s the scariest movie I have ever seen in my life, at the end, I was terrified. It all connects — the legend and the film. The Blair Witch Project is a masterpiece of pure terror, horror and suspense. Daniel Myrick is a genius!!”
Another audience review says: “Absolute classic, one of the most raw horror films out there.”
The Blair Witch Project is currently streaming for free on BBC iPlayer till November 16.
Celebrity Traitors viewers have taken to social media to point out that the show accidentally spoiled a huge detail about the final five mid-way through the penultimate episode
22:44, 30 Oct 2025Updated 22:55, 30 Oct 2025
Celebrity Traitors fans have spotted a massive editing error that gives away huge final detail
The final five of the Celebrity Traitors has been confirmed, with tonight’s penultimate episode revealing that Alan Carr, Cat Burns, Joe Marler, Nick Mohammed and David Olusoga have made it to next week’s finale. However, fans have spotted that the show already spoilt that detail mid-way through the episode.
Tonight’s episode saw the Traitors murder Celia Imrie in plain sight before the group banished Kate Garraway, leaving just five of them remaining. In between the exits, the final five plus Kate headed to their latest challenge, where they were tasked with dodging lasers to add money to the prize pot.
However, one eagle-eyed fan has spotted that the final five was actually spoiled in one shot mid-way through the episode. “Spoiler in the middle of episode 8,” they wrote on Reddit, alongside of a shot of Nick, Alan, Cat, Joe and David getting out of cars while back at the castle.
Just before, six of them had been seen travelling back in the classic black Celebrity Traitors cars – each of them wearing their own athleisure clothes. However, when the cars pull up outside the house, we see just the final five leaving the cars and they are all wearing long-sleeved green tops and black gilets.
It’s likely that the shot will have been taken from next week’s final episode – with the last five contestants taking part in one more challenge, which would explain the matching outfits and why only five of them are present.
During her exit, star Kate opened up about how life-changing Celebrity Traitors proved to be. She told her fellow castmates before leaving the show: “I’ve had a lot of years of being serious and very sad and you have all allowed me to play the most amazing game.
“But also you have allowed me to play and be silly and have fun. Every single one of you, I am going to take away an idea and a new kind of life.”
She then added: “I have and always have been totally myself. A Faithful.”
After the show, Kate said that she had “so much fun”. She added: “We were really into it and obviously we’re raising money for charity.
“Personally, I just felt genuinely lucky to be involved. Because, you know, it’s the first one. There’s been so much chat about it, and I never thought that I’d be included, so I was just like a wide-eyed kid in a candy shop for at least three days.”
Celebrity Traitors continues on Thursday at 9pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Question Time host Fiona Bruce was forced to apologise after making a huge blunder about Andrew during Thursday’s live broadcast, following the ex royal’s title removal
23:32, 30 Oct 2025Updated 01:38, 31 Oct 2025
Fiona Bruce apologised after making a blunder about Prince Andrew
The error occurred while the panel discussed the King’s decision to officially strip his brother of his remaining Royal privileges, prompting immediate corrections from guests and chuckles from the studio audience. She said: “I should remind everyone that Prince Andrew has, of course, always protested his innocence and denied the allegations.”
Matthew Goodwin and other panellists quickly jumped in to correct her, emphasising “it’s just Andrew” before she raised her hands and admitted: “Of course, it’s Andrew. Forgive me, force of habit,” reports the Express.
She continued: “Andrew Mountbatten Windsor has always denied the allegations against him and the King has said are deemed necessary notwithstanding the fact that he has continued to deny the allegations against him.”
The blunder came just hours after Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles had officially removed Andrew’s titles and honours, completing the final stage in his brother’s withdrawal from Royal duties.
In a statement, the Palace revealed a formal notice had been issued to Andrew requiring him to give up his lease at the Royal Lodge in Windsor, where he has resided for over two decades. The monarch’s decision comes after growing calls to remove the Duke from the property following continued public outrage over his connections to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and claims made by Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre, which Andrew steadfastly refutes.
Officials confirmed the 64 year old will relocate to accommodation on the Sandringham Estate, with his future housing costs met privately by the King. The Palace stated that “Their Majesties’ thoughts and utmost sympathies remain with the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.
“Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease and he will move to alternative private accommodation.”
Meanwhile, Fiona was compelled to intervene and halt a heated clash between writer Matthew Goodwin and Labour’s Lisa Nandy.
The duo clashed during a heated debate about illegal immigration and crime, with Goodwin contending that increasing migration figures had led to “shocking cases” of violence nationwide and asserting the system was “broken and in urgent need of reform.”
Nandy immediately fired back, labelling his remarks “outrageous” and claiming he was “trying to create distrust, division and fear.” The row rapidly escalated, prompting Bruce to intervene with raised hands, calling out over the commotion: “Matt, wait one second – both of you wait one second! If you talk at the same time, no one can hear anything.”
BBC Springwatch presenter Chris Packham has shared a health update with fans after visiting hospital this week
Packham leads children’s march to Buckingham Palace to ask royals to rewild land
Beloved Springwatch host Chris Packham has opened up about a worrying health scare that saw him rushed to Southampton hospital after spotting an alarming symptom, which led to an invasive procedure to obtain a biopsy.
The BBC naturalist admitted the medical emergency required immediate investigation, telling supporters he’d anticipated the experience would be “a bit unpleasant and uncomfortable”.
He underwent both a gastroscopy and colonoscopy following the discovery of a polyp, and revealed the ordeal proved far less daunting than he’d feared.
The wildlife campaigner updated his numerous Instagram followers from the hospital café as he documented the journey online.
He admitted: “I got to watch it all… it was better than everything I saw on Netflix last night.”
A gastroscopy, alternatively termed an upper endoscopy, involves a physician using an extended, bendable tube equipped with a camera to inspect the upper digestive tract, encompassing the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
A colonoscopy, meanwhile, is a diagnostic examination of the large intestine’s lining utilising an elongated, flexible tube fitted with a camera, known as a colonoscope.
The procedure is carried out to explore symptoms such as stomach pain or bleeding, to check for bowel cancer, or to keep track of pre-existing health issues.
Chris verified that doctors had extracted a small polyp and that he’s currently awaiting the biopsy findings, reports the Express.
Despite facing uncertainty, he stayed positive and took the opportunity to commend the team caring for him. “I just want to say a massive thank you to all of the staff and volunteers working at this hospital and, of course, to the NHS,” he said.
“Whatever happens going forward, we’ve got to protect our NHS.”
However, the wildlife presenter’s hospital experience took an unexpected turn when he encountered one of the hospital’s cuddliest guests, Tinker the poodle. The adorable dog was visiting alongside charity volunteer Carmella, collecting donations for the Muscle Help Foundation.
The organisation delivers life-transforming “Muscle Dream Experiences” for youngsters living with muscular dystrophy. Chris was deeply touched by their cause and promised to promote their donation link, encouraging anyone able to contribute even a modest sum to support them.
“I know it’s tough times,” he said, “but anything you can afford would be most welcome.”
He remarked that the duo had been given a “fantastic welcome” at the hospital, before adding with humour: “What a place – sensational. And finishing off with a poodle… that’s what you call service!”.
This marks Chris ‘most recent health disclosure, with the broadcaster being remarkably candid about his wellbeing on social media, discussing extensively his experiences living with Asperger’s Syndrome, which he was diagnosed with aged 40 following years of feeling unlike others around him.
People were quick to comment on the post with one person saying: “Great sharing your experience of undergoing a colonoscopy Chris! Super important for men to make sure they get checked out if ever concerned!”
Someone else wrote: “Sending so much love and so pleased all went well and it’s over.” As another added: “I hope all goes well for you…take care of yourself you have spent your life dedicating to others.”
The Faithfuls have finally banished a Traitor, as Jonathan Ross was voted out – but the twists aren’t over as the Celebrity Traitors finale draws near
Celebrity Traitors reveal mega double plot twist in semi-final
The Celebrity Traitors has been packed with twists and turns so far, and though the show is nearing its end, those plot twists are far from over. A dramatic double twist has already been revealed for the penultimate episode.
The hit BBC series is set to conclude on 6 November. Ahead of that episode, Claudia Winkleman revealed two twists that would shake things up for the celebs. It comes just after the Faithfuls finally managed to nab a Traitor and sent Jonathan Ross home.
As the Faithfuls celebrated their victory, Claudia rained on their parade by revealing that, at the next roundtable, banished players would not tell the remaining group if they were Faithful or a Traitor. “After tomorrow, the banished players will not reveal their true identity,” Claudia warned.
This is not the only twist. Claudia also revealed to the remaining Traitors, Alan Carr and Cat Burns, that they had to murder in plain sight that evening. In letters read by each deceitful player, Claudia said: “Traitors, tonight there will be no secret meeting in the turret. Instead you must murder in plain sight at tonight’s dinner.
“To do this one Traitor must toast the player you want to murder while saying the words ‘Parting is such sweet sorrow’ followed by their name. You must do this before the night is over.”
Alan has already killed in plain sight, having murdered his friend Paloma Faith by touching her face after touching a ‘poisoned’ plant. In a quiet discussion, Cat and Alan agreed that he would be the one to kill again, as Cat wasn’t very convincing when she tried to say it.
Cat suggested that Alan pretend to quote recently banished Stephen Fry whilst delivering the phrase, which is from Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet.
In an aside, Alan joked that he always had to do the Traitors “dirty work”. He said: “I have to do all the dirty work for these traitors. I’m surprised they don’t have me up in that turret with a hoover doing some light dusting. Why is it always me?”
The episode also saw Jonathan Ross head home. He was the first Traitor caught on the show and was voted out by six people, including both Cat and Alan. In fact, all bar two people voted for Jonathan, with the outliers being him and David Olusoga. David voted for Nick Mohammed.
Jonathan’s exit speech, dubbed “ridiculous” by Joe Marler, kept the other Faithfuls on their toes. He said: “I’ve got no idea what everyone is doing wrong.
“I cannot believe you’ve done it again. I can’t believe I’m standing here for no good reason so I don’t want to be rude but you’re idiots. But I am not judging because it’s fiendish.
“I’m not blaming the players, I’m blaming the game. I am now and have always been throughout the game completely faithful… to the Traitors!”
FORMER Corrie actress Michelle Keegan is being courted for her first Hollywood film role.
US screen star Reese Witherspoon is keen for the 38-year-old to play the lead in a big-budget movie adaptation of her new novel.
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Michelle Keegan is being courted for her first Hollywood film roleCredit: GettyHollywood A-lister Reese Witherspoon is keen for Michelle to play the lead in her upcoming filmCredit: Refer to sourceEx-soap star Michelle became a global success thanks to mystery drama Fool Me OnceCredit: Getty
Oscar-winner Reese, 49, wrote crime thriller Gone Before Goodbye with American author Harlan Coben, who was behind Michelle’s Netflix hit show Fool Me Once.
Harlan introduced the women to each other at the launch of the book at the London Literature Festival, held at the capital’s Festival Hall last weekend.
A source said: “Harlan has been singing Michelle’s praises to Reese and she was keen to meet her. They got on really well and it was clear Reese was really taken with Michelle.
“The plan is to turn the book into a film and Michelle is their first choice to take on the role of the lead character, Maggie McCabe.
“She is a combat surgeon and Michelle previously played an Army medic in Our Girl on the BBC, so it’s a role they know she could take on with style.
“It’s early days but Harlan and Reese think Michelle is tailor-made for this role and would love her to come on board when the time is right.”
Ex-soap star Michelle became a global success after the mystery drama Fool Me Once was released last year.
The series became one of Netflix’s most watched TV shows of 2024 — with more than 107 million people streaming it worldwide in the first 90 days.
Best-selling author Harlan said of his leading lady: “I think what Michelle has, besides tremendous talent and all the other stuff, is a genuine authenticity.
“I think the audience, loves her, people want to follow her life, because they sense that there’s a kindness and a gentleness.
“And that’s really her, she’s truly authentic.”
Speaking last year, 63-year-old Harlan insisted he would be keen to work with her again and reckoned: “If we could get Michelle, we’d love to get Michelle.”
Fans of Michelle, from Stockport — who has a daughter with Heart FM DJ husband Mark Wright — will next see her on screen in ITV crime drama The Blame.
She plays Detective Inspector Emma Crane in the six-parter, which is an adaptation of Charlotte Langley’s 2023 debut novel of the same name.
Michelle is also known for her roles in the Sky One comedy drama Brassic and BBC drama Ten Pound Poms, about Brits who migrated to Australia in the 1950s.
Michelle is also known for her role in the Sky One comedy drama BrassicCredit: Sky UK LimitedReese wrote crime thriller Gone Before Goodbye with American author Harlan Coben
GLADIATORS fans will soon get the chance to live out the show in real life thanks to a new experience.
Birmingham will be getting The Gladiators Experience at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), full of classic challenges seen on the popular TV show.
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A Gladiators experience is opening in Birmingham next yearCredit: BBC
In total, the experience will sprawl across 10,000sqm and offer a gladiator ‘training facility’ as well as behind-the-scene insights.
Challenges include The Wall, Eliminator, Hang Tough, Duel and Travelator.
While little details have been revealed about what the different features look like, fans can expect the real-life challenges to be similar to the ones on the show.
For example, in Duel, contenders and gladiators face off on raised platforms, by trying to knock each other off.
Then for The Wall, two contenders race to climb a large wall, whilst being chased by two gladiators.
For the Hang Tough challenge, contenders must swing on a trapeze as gladiators try to drag them down.
Visitors will then also be able to see behind the scenes of the TV show in the Vault.
And if they want to develop their skills further, they can head to the Gladiator Training Facility.
There will also be a shop where fans can purchase exclusive merchandise.
The experience will be open to all ages and expected to launch in May 2026.
Ticket prices and when they will go on sale are yet to be announced.
The show originally launched back in the 90s and is currently in its third revival.
On the show, contenders compete against gladiators in a series of challenges to earn points.
The show finishes after a final race called The Eliminator, where the contender with the most points gets a head start.
The winner is then the first person to complete the obstacle course.
Visitors will be able to take part in a number of challenges seen on the TV showCredit: PA
Dom Bird, senior vice president at MGM Alternative Television said: “Now, fans young and old will get one step closer to walking in the footsteps of their heroes, as we announce our brand new Gladiators Experience.
“Based at the NEC Birmingham, everyone finally has the chance to test their skills on the iconic games – from Duel and Hang Tough, to The Wall, and of course the legendary Travelator.
Celebrity Traitors star Jonathan Ross has landed himself in hot water with show bosses after spilling behind the scenes secrets but is hasn’t stopped him revealing more
Jonathan Ross has been issued a warning for revealing show secrets (Image: BBC)
He has been working alongside Cat Burns and Alan Carr, killing off the Faithfuls while trying to remain undetected. Jonathan has so far been successful in keeping his true identity under wraps.
However, he has now revealed he actually let slip he was a Traitor in a moment that didn’t make the final edit. In a shocking confession, Jonathan revealed: “It’s nerve-wracking watching it for me.
“The round tables, of course, because a lot of stuff is edited out and I’m not allowed to talk about the stuff that’s edited out, which I can understand why.
“When I started talking about it last week, they sent us all a kind of list saying, ‘Just to remind you, these are the things in your contracts you’re not allowed to talk about.’
“So I’ll skirt around it as much as possible and not break any rules. But there’s a fairly comprehensive list, and most of it I can see is to protect the integrity of the game as a viewing experience for people, so it makes perfect sense.”
Jonathan confessed he didn’t think he played the fame well, while Clare Balding was approaching it “cleverly”. He added: “She – I think – had figured me out quite clearly and more so than actually appeared on the screen.
“On the Uncloaked episode where she sees it’s my name, she goes ‘oh I was going to go for him last night’ – because I’d actually said something to her the night before which I think made her think it was me.
“And that wasn’t in the show because it didn’t lead to the roundtable but I think she was fairly confident it was me.” He added on his podcast with daughter Honey: “So you can imagine how delighted I was when she put Charlotte’s name down.
“She was doing it smart, because she knew she didn’t have enough people to support my claim yet and ‘if I say him and he is a Traitor, he may well murder me, so I’ll do this and then maybe keep me closer and get rid of me the next time’.”
Despite Jonahtan’s slip up with Clare, he has remained undetected by his fellow co-stars. On spin-off, Uncloacked, Stephen Fry was convinced Cat, Joe and David were the Traitors, but he got the shock of his life when he found out the truth.
“Jonathan?! FFS!” he said. “Oh he played a blinder, we knew he was a superfan, but he convinced me he wanted to be Faithful!”
“Alan?! What will Paloma say? Wow does he want to end the relationship?! Alan Carr, I don’t believe it! Two big dogs, and one small Cat!”
EastEnders fans are worried about Letitia Dean after her character Sharon Watts was written out during Tuesday night’s episode just weeks after making a much-anticipated comeback
EastEnders fans worried for Sharon star EastEnders fans worried for Sharon star Letitia Dean as exit confirmed as exit confirmed(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)
EastEnders fans are worried about Letitia Dean after her character Sharon Watts was written out during Tuesday night’s episode. The actress, 57, has been on the BBC soap on a sporadic basis since 1985 and whilst her latest stint has lasted more than 14 years in total, the star has only appeared in a handful of episodes this year, prompting some viewers to worry about her well-being in real life.
Towards the end of last month, Sharon headed back to Walford after spending some time in America visiting her sister Michelle and missed the much-anticipated return of Zoe Slater during her time away. Once she had got home, she was shocked to learn that Zoe had given birth to her twins during her time away from Albert Square, and agreed to help her son down when she told Sharon that her late husband Dennis was the father, which was a lie.
Fans instantly took to social media to speculate on what was going on, given that the iconic character has only been seen nine times since her return.
One fan wrote: “I hope Letitia Dean’s alright. Before she came back it was said she had lots coming up and now she’s left again after only a month onscreen. Makes me think it was a last minute exit,” whilst another said: “I really hope Letitia Dean is ok she’s only just back and Sharon is gone again let’s no speculate about her real like person business but let’s hope she’s ok and back soon x”
A third said: “i hope letitia dean is ok… sharon’s exit around the time of matins death and her subsequent exit again now r really peculiar in terms of plot direction… not like being nosey or anything just hope she’s ok” (sic)
A fourth added: “What on EARTH is going on with Sharon Watts. She completed 9 episodes since coming back after a 5 month break and she’s gone again in another hastily written exit. Worried for her.” Sharing in the concern, another fan said: “I genuinely hand on heart really hope she’s okay! It’s so sad to not see her on screen.”
After one of the twins died, Zoe left the other behind and lied to Sharon about their father in the hopes that she would provide cash to help her track the child down. However, in tonight’s episode of EastEnders, Kat (Jessie Wallace) revealed the truth to Sharon’s sister Vicki, resulting in a furious clash.
Now, fans are convinced that there’s a much sadder reason behind Zoe’s cruel methods for finding her long-lost child, and that it could result in the recently returned character leaving the Square for good. Taking to X, some fans speculated that Zoe may be desperate to find the child as she’s secretly suffering with a life-limiting illness.
“I think there’s more to Zoe’s state of mind than meets the eye. I don’t think she can get out of this one #Eastenders,” one viewer wrote on social media.
Another replied: “Yeah imagine if Zoe has had some sort of secret diagnosis before returning to Walford. Not cancer but maybe some other health condition.
This may explain why she’s so eager to find her son after all these years because deep down she knows she may not have much time left #EastEnders.”
After watching Zoe look for a cat throughout the episode, another fan said: “You saw earlier in her scenes with the Cat and her reactions that something looked off with Zoe. #Eastenders.”
Others were bewildered with Zoe’s unhinged behaviour, with another writing: “Why is Zoe so obsessed with this cat??? # EastEnders.” A fifth said: “Zoe is a MESS #EastEnders.” Another tweeted: “Zoe is all types of messed up #EastEnders.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Celebrity Traitors stars Kate Garraway and Tom Daley have opened up about their experiences on the BBC show – as the Good Morning Britain star opens up about how healing it was for her
Tom Daley and Kate Garraway were two of the biggest names to sign up for the latest series(Image: ITV)
Celebrity Traitors has kept us on the edge of our seats for weeks with backstabbing, betrayal and Traitor like ways. However, it was quite the healing experience for Kate Garraway.
Kate tragically lost her husband Derek Draper following a lengthy health battle and was instantly launched into being a single mum to their beloved children Darcey and Billy. Whilst many would find Celebrity Traitors difficult and mentally draining, Kate actually found it therapeutic and said it really gave her time to slow down and think.
Speaking about the show, Kate said: “The process was fun, intense and eye-opening. It was a rollercoaster. It was also a wonderful time to do some thinking of my own.
“No phones, access to the internet or live TV were allowed, and my wonderful sister-in-law was with the kids. So I could distract myself from the worries of the past few years and immerse myself in game play but also take stock and let my mind wander and dream about the next chapter of my life.”
Kate is adamant to keep Derek a huge part of her and the kids’ life despite his tragic death. Speaking to Prima, Kate added: “As a family, we think about Derek and I think about him all the time.
“We’ve ended up with this strange conversation that takes place where Derek’s almost there. So, if Darcey is asking to do something or suggesting something, I’ll say, ‘What do you reckon Dad would think about that?’ And she’ll say, ‘Well, I think Dad would think this. But actually, I think he’s wrong because of this.’ I quite like that because it feels as though he’s still constantly involved.”
Olympic diver Tom Daley had a much shorter stint on the show but in the time off screen, he was able to focus on his other passion in life – knitting. He explained: “Yeah, any time I was in the hotel I was just knitting, knitting, knitting.
“You get your phone taken off you, you can’t talk to anyone, you’re just in your room, so I was very glad I had knitting because I think lots of people were bored. We wanted to do a knitting lesson in our downtime, but we never quite got around to it.”
His son Robbie is a huge fan of the show. He told Radio Times: “Robbie is a huge fan of The Traitors, and the boys spent some time on the Game of Wool set. Phoenix is only two! He’s definitely not into it [knitting] yet. He likes grabbing the wool, then running away with it and unravelling everything. Robbie, to be fair, has made a hat with a knitting loom machine and has crocheted a chain.”
The December 2025 issue of Prima is on sale today and Tom’s full interview is available in the new edition of Radio Times.
Explore amazing Cornish landscapes where you can walk in the footsteps of Poldark’s Ross and Demelza this autumn — and stay at a huge historic country house where the drama was filmed
BBC series Poldark, adapted from the novels by Winston Graham, took the nation’s breath away – and now you can follow Poldark’s footsteps(Image: BBC/Mammoth Screen/Mike Hogan)
The period drama Poldark, which aired on the BBC from 2015 to 2019, captivated us with its stunning locations and compelling storyline, and the series, which starred Aidan Turner as Ross Poldark, was watched by eight million viewers per episode.
One of the highlights of the show was the breath-taking filming locations, and now, the National Trust is inviting fans to explore these sites this autumn and winter, as Cornwall celebrates a special Poldark anniversary.
Next year (2026) will mark 80 years since the publication of the first original Poldark novel, Demelza, which continues to enchant readers to this day.
The first TV adaptation of Winston Graham’s novels aired 50 years ago, running from 1975 until 1977, and it’s been 10 years since the acclaimed remake graced our screens in 2015, reports Cornwall Live.
One review of the 2015 series sums up the enthusiasm people had for Poldark: “This is the most artistic, photogenic, captivating series ever made. Besides an outstanding, lovely cast, the excellent performance by the lighting men, cameramen, director, scenery experts, colour specialists, costume creators, music score, and quality scriptwriters is beyond all expectations.
“Their outstanding teamwork often makes me freeze the image in order to better appreciate the beauty and magic of the shots: outside and inside. Breathtaking scenery and, extremely cosy, authentic cottages, and overwhelming, rich mansions—even the flower bouquets—are mind-blowing.
“So grateful to the whole crew, they made a genuine masterpiece. A treasure to cherish forever!”
The show’s spectacular filming locations span from the wild Tin Coast and vast sandy shores to the “ancient and atmospheric” Godolphin estate, which served as Trenwith in the 1975 Poldark series.
These breathtaking spots have attracted devoted fans from across the globe. The medieval gardens and historic house at Godolphin represent just one of the numerous National Trust sites that played a crucial role in bringing the Poldark tale to life.
The enduring phenomenon of “Poldark tourism” continues to fund essential conservation efforts throughout Cornwall, and visitor numbers have played a vital role in safeguarding threatened wildlife and habitats across the county.
Autumn presents an ideal opportunity to explore the striking landscapes that sparked the beloved saga. The cooler months offer a wonderful opportunity to explore Poldark country, as visitor numbers remain lower than during the summer peak, allowing you to truly savour the tranquillity that Cornwall provides.
Since its first appearance in 1946, Winston Graham’s “love letter to Cornwall”, the Poldark saga, has won hearts across the globe, whisking readers and viewers away to 18th-century Cornwall.
The dramatic vistas of mining heritage locations and rugged coastal cliffs took centre stage in the narrative when the original television adaptation was broadcast in 1975, and once more in 2015 when the reimagined series introduced an entirely new generation to Ross and Demelza’s Cornwall.
Poldark transformed into a worldwide phenomenon, motivating thousands to journey to Cornwall and discover the scenery they had witnessed on their screens.
By 2019, approximately 14% of Cornwall’s visitors were believed to have made the trip in some capacity due to Poldark, and this enthusiasm delivered a tourism windfall to the county whilst raising crucial funds for the conservation and maintenance of Cornwall’s natural and historic locations.
A significant portion of this support has been reinvested into preserving these remarkable landscapes for generations to come, with efforts along the Tin Coast concentrating on protecting natural areas and wildlife habitats. At West Wheal Owles, better known to Poldark fans as Wheal Leisure, conservation efforts have been put in place to protect the endangered Cornish choughs.
This area is now off-limits to the public, creating a safe haven for this iconic bird species.
For those who are fans of the 1975 TV series of Poldark, Godolphin will be familiar as it was the home of Francis Poldark and the fictional grand house, Trenwith.
Back when Godolphin was still a private residence, it served as a filming location. The National Trust bought the estate in 2007 and began extensive and careful conservation work to preserve the house for future generations.
In 2006, Godolphin was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Since then, the estate has become renowned for its historic gardens and 500 acres of protected parkland — and the house is available as a holiday let for most of the year.
Autumn is the ideal time to explore Poldark country with its quieter paths, sweeping sea views, and a feeling of stepping back into history.
From rugged clifftop walks and mining heritage trails to exploring historic houses and gardens, Cornwall’s National Trust sites offer visitors a chance to experience the landscape that inspired a legend.
Timothy West died last November and now his wife Prunella Scales has tragically passed away. The pair spoke fondly of one another in their final ever interview
11:40, 28 Oct 2025Updated 11:40, 28 Oct 2025
Timothy West and Prunella Scales in a BBC Breakfast interview in 2023(Image: BBC)
Prunella Scales and Timothy West spoke of their deep love for another in their final interview together. The EastEnders actor revealed that he had spotted a potential sign of his wife Prunella’s dementia years before her diagnosis was confirmed.
In November, it was confirmed that Timothy – known for his roles in shows like EastEnders – had died at the age of 90. Prunella’s death was announced today, just months after her husband’s sad passing.
In what is believed to be one of his last interviews, conducted in 2023, Timothy opened up about his wife Prunella’s battle with dementia. The couple appeared on BBC Breakfast for an interview together, in what would be their last appearance on TV.
Prunella, who is most recognised for her role as Sybil Fawlty in the classic sitcom Fawlty Towers, received her dementia diagnosis in 2014. However, Timothy suggested that he first noticed signs of the condition as early as 2001.
Reflecting on the moment he first observed his wife’s decline, he shared: “I came to see a play that Pru was doing in Greenwich. I went to see the first night and it was good, much enjoyed by the audience, and then I went to see it again a bit later on and I thought ‘Pru’s not … it’s strange. She’s not totally with it.'”
Despite these early signs, her official dementia diagnosis didn’t come until over a decade later. Timothy recalled: “We went to see a specialist who just said ‘I’m sorry this is just something that happens to you when you get older’. It’s not going to get any easier but you can cope with it. We manage.”
Despite the tough landscape they found themselves in, Prunella said: “I have got to know him better and better and better.”
Timothy added: “I know that things are going to change a little bit, but it has been a long time and we have managed pretty well really. I don’t think we ever think ‘oh no.'”
Prunella then shared: “I have been asked to live the rest of my life with somebody I respect very much and agree with a lot of things and argue with about a lot of things quite happily.”
During a chat with the BBC, which was conducted prior to the launch of Timothy’s book, he was questioned about his wife Prunella’s vascular dementia diagnosis. He said that “somehow” they have “coped” over the years.
“Pru doesn’t really think about it,” he added. Timothy and Pru have been husband and wife since 1963. The couple have two sons together, actors Samuel West and Joseph West. Their family also includes Timothy’s daughter Juliet West from a previous marriage.
It was named the second best coastal town in the UK last year, and it’s easy to see why. With a two-mile long beach, a charming high street and great food, it’s the perfect spot for a day trip.
Nicola Roy Spare Time writer
04:12, 28 Oct 2025
A coastal suburb just a 15-minute journey from a major UK city should be the next addition to your autumn travel itinerary. Despite the crisp air, a seaside trip is always a fantastic way to shake off any stresses, and you can’t beat the stunning views across the water.
I recently had a day out in Portobello near Edinburgh on a sunny yet chilly day, and I’m kicking myself for not visiting sooner. With a bustling high street filled with independent retailers, delicious food, and excellent public transport connections, it’s an ideal spot if you’re looking to venture off the beaten track.
A mere 15-minute bus ride from the city centre dropped us right in the heart of the town, and it was immediately apparent that this place was something special.
Of course, our first port of call was a brisk walk along the seafront. The weather was very nice and bright bright, but cold, however it was quite invigorating after the hour-long train journey from Glasgow.
Portobello’s beach stretches two miles, boasting a Victorian-style promenade and views over the Firth of Forth. As it was a sunny Sunday morning, it was quite busy, with numerous families out for walks and dogs joyfully darting across the sand, reports the Express.
The first thing that struck me about the beach was its cleanliness. It’s evident that the locals of Portobello, or ‘Porty’ as it’s fondly referred to, take immense pride in their environment.
I regret not visiting during the summer months, as I can see this being a fantastic spot for sunbathing and maybe even taking a dip in the sea.
Last year, Portobello was named the UK’s second-best coastal town by JoJo Maman Bebe, and its beach bagged a Keep Scotland Beautiful award, which really proves its charm.
After a stroll along the beach, we worked up quite an appetite. The seafront at Portobello beach is lined with a variety of eateries and pubs, from massive pizza slices at Civerino’s to brunch and coffee at The Beach House.
Many of these places offer outdoor seating, allowing you to dine practically on the beach, which was lovely to see.
We decided to try Shrimp Wreck, a seafood joint with a small yet appetising menu. This street food stall gained fame after featuring on BBC’s My Million Pound Menu and is renowned for its fish finger sandwiches – it even made it to the finals of the Birds Eye Fish Finger Sandwich Awards in 2017.
Naturally, I opted for the dish that was all the rage. The battered flaky fish fillets, mushy peas and the best chips I’ve ever tasted, all in a soft roll, was probably the messiest thing I could have eaten, but I have no regrets.
Next, it was time to properly explore the high street where the bus had dropped us off. It’s tucked just behind the promenade, and while it wasn’t as bustling as the beach itself, there were still plenty of people milling about – and crucially, plenty of shops open too.
One of the highlights for me was The Portobello Bookshop, a delightful independent bookshop brimming with novels, cookbooks and so much more. The space was bright, cosy and inviting, and the kind of place that you could spend hours browsing and not get bored.
They also host events, such as Q+A’s with authors, so it’s worth checking out what’s on if you’re planning a visit there.
Cove is another must-visit if you’re a fan of a gift shop. This one was overflowing with all the trinkets you could ever want, from Jellycat toys to candles and shampoo bars, as well as lovely cards and mouth-watering chocolate bars too.
The high street of Portobello might not be the largest but it’s definitely one of the most charming I’ve seen. There are more food and drink places here, as well as pubs and even an Aldi, so you’re not going to run out of options quickly.
One spot we missed, which I’m eager to return for, is the swim centre. Nestled in Portobello, you’ll discover a genuine Victorian Turkish bath, one of only 11 in the UK, along with a gym and fitness studio, so this is definitely on my list for the next visit.
If you’ve never ventured to Portobello, it truly is the ideal location for a weekend getaway – even as the weather turns chillier. Its proximity to the lively city of Edinburgh makes it perfect if you’re seeking a break from urban life and fancy some time indulging in food, drink and relaxation by the water.
THE Nineties might have been ruled by boybands and girl-bands, but life at the top of pop could be tough.
And it was probably worse for the girls, as putting on extra pounds, dating the wrong guy or, heaven forbid, having a baby were hugely frowned upon by management teams.
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New BBC documentary Girlbands Forever delves into the girlband era, pictured the girls of All SaintsCredit: GettyAll Saints founding member Melanie Blatt informed managers that she and bandmate Nicole Appleton were pregnant, both were told to abort their babiesCredit: PA:Press Association
New BBC documentary Girlbands Forever, the follow-up to last year’s three-parter about boybands, delves into an era where record companies had less regard for duty of care, days off or mental health.
It features members of Atomic Kitten, Eternal, Sugababes, Mis-teeq and Little Mix, providing insight into what it was like being in an all-female group in the Nineties and early Noughties.
The dream was to replicate the success of the Spice Girls, the all-conquering icons who sparked the girlband explosion.
And record labels invested millions in a bid to find the next big thing.
But as the Spice Girls’ rivals All Saints found out, the pressure became unbearable.
So much so that when founding member Melanie Blatt informed managers that she and bandmate Nicole Appleton were pregnant, both were told to abort their babies.
The reason? They had just cracked America with No1 hit Never Ever and momentum could be lost.
Melanie, 50, explains: “I hadn’t been with my partner for very long, it was definitely a bit of a surprise It wasn’t people congratulating us. It was more like this look of dread and worry and the realisation that things are going to change.
“We flew to LA and at [airport] LAX our manager, he was behind us, was telling us to abort our babies.”
She added that her bosses told them they were “going to ruin everything” and “it was the end of the band”.
Melanie ended up having her baby with her partner, Stuart Zender, the bassist for band Jamiroquai.
‘Vomiting in toilets’
But Nicole, who fell pregnant with then boyfriend Robbie Williams, did not, which Melanie admits caused issues with their relationship.
She explains: “Nic and I had been best friends since we were 11. We took pregnancy tests in a hotel in Canada and spent that whole night discussing bringing our kids up together. It was one of the best nights ever.
“And it’s not really my place to talk about it, but unfortunately . . . it was a very uncomfortable situation because I kept mine, she didn’t. That was a really tricky part of my and our existence.”
All Saints, which consisted of Melanie, sisters Nicole and Natalie and main songwriter Shaznay Lewis, were always deemed a “cool version” of the Spice Girls and were far more rock ‘n’ roll.
Star Melanie opens up more on BBC show Girlbands ForeverCredit: SuppliedAll Saints’ Nicole Appleton with then-boyfriend Robbie Williams in 2004Credit: Michael Melia
Whereas Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton and Mel B found love with a footballer, an R&B singer and a dancer respectively, the All Saints girls dated rock stars, with Nicole marrying and having a son with Liam Gallagher.
Melanie says: “We were turning up to kids’ TV shows on a Saturday morning without having one wink of sleep. We looked fine, just a bit of vomiting in the toilets prior to CD:UK.”
After two albums, All Saints split in 2001, a disparity in earnings between Shaznay and the rest of the band being a major factor.
By the end of their existence as a group, Melanie says they “hated each other”.
She adds: “We’d fallen out, it was hell, it was ‘separate’ everything.
“It was just ridiculous but literally one of the proudest moments of being in that band was calling it quits because we didn’t stay for the money. We wanted to be done, we didn’t want to be with each other any more and we made that decision.
“We were in control. We were supposed to go on tour and we gave the money back and I’m so proud of that. That’s one of the only decisions we were all happy to make together, telling each other to f*** off.”
Girlbands Forever begins on Saturday at 9.20pm on BBC Two.
Little Mix
Little Mix were one of the first girl groups forced to contend with social mediaCredit: Neil HallBand member Perrie Edwards bore the brunt of online abuse due to her relationship with Zayn MalikCredit: Supplied
AS girlbands moved into the 2010s, life did not get any easier, with social media now to contend with.
She explains: “Social media was dark, especially back in the day.
“Me and the girls used to get a lot of stick. Things we would wear or how we would look, people would pick us apart.
“You’re hurting enough as it is, never mind everybody having an opinion on it. Everyone wants to know your business and everyone feels like they have ownership in that.
“You can’t escape it. So you may as well sing about it.”
Life in girlbands was relentless, so Little Mix lasting ten years was a monumental achievement.
But Perrie, below, admits she almost quit when she was at her lowest ebb ahead of a gig in Las Vegas.
She says: “I didn’t want to go, I was so exhausted. I tried getting out of the trip and when I got there, I started experiencing panic attacks.
“I didn’t know what was happening at the time, I’d never experienced a panic attack.
“I ended up in a hospital. I didn’t want to let the girls down. They had to do it without me and I hated it and I really resented myself for it.”
She adds: “When you’re in a group dynamic, even though you’re going through stuff individually, you can’t just be selfish so I kind of put a brave face on a lot of time.
“I didn’t want to let the team down.”
Eternal
Eternal had a No1 smash hit with I Wanna Be The Only One in 1997Credit: Rex‘People were always voicing concerns about my weight and about our weight as a band’, says founding member Kelle BryanCredit: Supplied
ETERNAL had a No1 smash hit with I Wanna Be The Only One in 1997, but their looks soon became a concern.
Founding member Kelle Bryan, 50, reveals: “People were always voicing concerns about my weight and about our weight as a band. Stylists would come along and say, ‘This doesn’t fit you, this doesn’t fit you’.
“We’re talking about an era where being a size zero was popular, so they sent us away to this place in the countryside where they were able to control what we ate.”
Atomic Kitten
Atomic Kitten’s Kerry Katona fell for Westlife singer Brian McFadden, but was ordered not to date him by managementCredit: Dave HoganKerry also had an unpleasant interaction with music mogul Louis WalshCredit: Supplied
WHILE on the 1999 Smash Hits Tour, Atomic Kitten’s Kerry Katona fell for Westlife singer Brian McFadden, but was ordered not to date him by management.
Kerry, 45, says: “They all went absolutely f*ing apes**t. I remember [Westlife manager] Louis Walsh saying, ‘I don’t like you, you’re trouble’.
Bandmate and best pal Natasha Hamilton, 43, adds: “It was definitely bad for the brand. Not from my point of view but from the label and management. They said girls can’t be seen with one of the boys in the biggest boyband in the UK because fan jealousy is a thing.”
Mis-Teeq
Mis-Teeq felt they were discriminated against and given fewer opportunitiesCredit: Alamy‘We weren’t invited to the same premieres. Some magazines wouldn’t consider us for the cover because they didn’t think three black girls would sell’, says Su-Elise NashCredit: Supplied
BEING an all-black group who rose up from the “underground scene” in 1999, Mis-Teeq felt they were discriminated against and given fewer opportunities.
Su-Elise Nash, 44, says: “We weren’t invited to the same premieres. Some magazines wouldn’t consider us for the cover because they didn’t think three black girls would sell.
“Our struggle to get there was definitely not as easy as it would have been if we had one white member or we’d all-white.”
Sugababes
When Sugababes founding member Mutya Buena gave birth to her first child aged 19, there was no let-upCredit: Dave HoganMutya quit the group in 2005 and was later diagnosed with post-natal depressionCredit: Getty
WHEN Sugababes founding member Mutya Buena gave birth to her first child aged 19 – while the band were working on their fourth album – there was no let-up.
Record label exec Darcus Beese says: “I remember standing in my kitchen trying to talk her down. I had no concept of post-natal depression. I would ask questions now like, ‘How’s your mental health?’.”
The Celebrity Traitors may appear like it is all fun and games on TV, but some of the participants have explained that they really did find it difficult to live under rules and deception for several weeks during filming
Jonathan Ross has admitted he struggled with constant lies while competing on The Celebrity Traitors(Image: BBC)
The makers of The Celebrity Traitors have confirmed mental health experts are on hand to support the contestants at all times after Jonathan Ross revealed he struggled while making the show. The star-filled version of the game show has been a ratings smash for the BBC.
But it seems lying to all those around you can play heavily on those taking part, both faithfuls and traitors alike. In a recent podcast, talk show host Jonathan, 64, admitted that he found it difficult to lie to the fellow stars in the first UK celebrity version of the show.
He was selected alongside comedian Alan Carr, 49, and singer Cat Burns, 25, as a traitor – and tasked with killing off fellow stars and working to manipulate the other contestants to wrongly guess who the traitors were. But speaking on his podcast, Jonathan remarked: “You’re on the defence this whole time” – and complained it was hard to be constantly lying.
Fans of the Traitors will note that a psychologist, Victoria Plant, and a psychotherapist and counsellor, Tanya Taylor-Wright, are listed as part of the crew. A source told The Sun that the mental health experts were on hand to support those taking part.
They said: “People may think it is just a telly show, but when you’re living the game 24/7, it takes a toll. It was made clear to the celebrities that help was on hand for them if they were struggling with the mind games.
“There is a duty of care in television now, so medical experts are employed on set, but it was of paramount importance on The Traitors because of the nature of the show.”
A spokesperson for The Traitors confirmed to The Mirror that the exact same measures are put in place for the civilian version of the show – and that showmakers take ensuring the care and safety of contestants is met at all times extremely seriously. This always includes making a psychotherapist and a psychologist available to the cast.
The spokesperson said: “Since the very first series in 2022, we have had a dedicated welfare team and psychological support on hand at all times who monitor and regularly speak to all of the players in private to ensure they feel comfortable throughout the entire process. Our priority is and will continue to be supporting the well-being of our cast, and this is the case before, during and after filming.”
So far, the traitors have managed to avoid being uncloaked as the 16 faithful contestants have either been picked off like sitting ducks or tricked into banishing their fellow faithfuls.
Viewers have been left in amusement as the traitors have expertly taken out the other stars while competing to win a prize of up to £100,000 for charity. Alan spilled the first blood when he marked singer Paloma Faith for death in plain sight when he completed a task which involved planting a black mark on her face.
Jonathan’s time could be running out, however, as the faithful contestants have speculated that either he or Stephen Fry could be a traitor, but they voted out the Blackadder actor at a round table.
West Horsley Place has been used as a filming location for several shows, such as Enola Holmes, Howards End, Vanity Fair and Ghosts, and one resident claims she’s being thrown out
Baschea has been asked to leave her home(Image: Tony Kershaw / SWNS)
BBC’s Ghosts was filmed at West Horsley Place in Surrey, which is where Baschea Walsh has been living for nearly 20 years. However, she has now claimed that she is being thrown out of her home so fans can rent it out instead.
The 71-year-old has said that she was told in July that she has until the middle of November to leave, so it can be turned into a short-term let. Baschea is gutted at having to move out and says the property will be aimed at watchers of Ghosts.
Ghosts is a show about a haunted house that was filmed at Grade I-listed West Horsley Place. The trust that manages the estate confirmed the mum-of-one has been asked to leave and that the property will be rented out.
However, it has been denied that it is specifically for TV fans. Baschea said: “They came to my house and said, ‘Your home is being turned into a holiday cottage, you have four months to go’. I was stunned as you can imagine. I am 71. I am going to be homeless.
“It is not about me, it is about the injustice of throwing a 71-year-old out. It is about anybody who is getting these section 21s out of nowhere because of greedy landlords.
“I was in shock for two months. For the first week, all I could eat was potatoes; I couldn’t even cook. I just felt completely lost. I didn’t know what to do. It came out of nowhere undeservedly in everyone’s opinion, and I really don’t know what is going to happen to me.”
West Horsley Place dates back to 15th century and was once owned by Henry VIII. It was last inherited by Bamber Gascoigne, who is the former host of University Challenge, who then decided to hand over the manor house and its assets to a charitable trust, which was aimed at restoring the building.
It has been used as a location for film and television productions, including Enola Holmes, Howards End, Vanity Fair and Ghosts, where the building was renamed Button House.
Baschea first moved into the house back in 2006 and said that it was instantly her dream home. She said: “This has been my life and absolutely the place for me to be. I fell in love with it the first time I came here. I knew this was the place I wanted to be. I had dreamt about it.
“It was just perfect for me. It was a really harmonious place to be, and we all got on with each other really well. It was a privilege to live here. Bamber and Christina said I could live here forever, and we never thought to put it in writing. We never thought they would sink so low.”
Baschea said that the Ghosts film crew were on set for five months every year for five years straight and that filming could be very disruptive.
She said: “It is disruptive when they film, especially at night with all the extra lights on really bright and the generators, extra mud, and people wandering around. But I embraced it because I wanted to support the house. It needed all sorts of things doing to it.
“Now I feel that I should have asked for a rent reduction for all the disruption, but I didn’t because I thought it was for the good of the house.”
Ghosts followed the adventures of a living couple sharing a house with a group of spirits, and it was a ratings hit for the BBC with 6.2 million people watching the final episode in 2023.
A friend of the pensioner has started a petition to stop her eviction from the home, which has received more than 2,000 signatures. Baschea said that she has started looking for a new home, but that she will not leave her cottage until a suitable replacement is found.
The West Horsley Trust said: “West Horsley Place Trust is an independent charity caring for a fragile heritage estate. To secure its future and continue our public mission, we are creating increased, diversified and sustainable income through carefully considered changes, including updating and converting two historic cottages into short-term lets.
“The cottages will allow people to stay on the estate to access and enjoy it, our heritage, our cultural activities and those of the wider region. The short-term lets will also support our wider business activities, such as weddings and events.
“We fully appreciate how significant an upheaval this is for the tenant. We have not taken the decision to end this tenancy lightly. We have provided an extended notice period and offered personalised support, including assistance in exploring alternative housing options.”
