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An England fan has opened up to BBC Breakfast about the devastating moment he witnessed England’s loss against Argentina.

An England fan has revealed what the atmosphere in the stadium was like on Wednesday evening.

The nation has been left heartbroken after World Cup dreams were shattered in a dramatic semi-final game.

Despite Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute goal, Argentina fought back with two goals in the final minutes, taking Lionel Messi to his third World Cup final.

Appearing on BBC Breakfast on Thursday, July 16, an England fan spoke to presenters Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt about witnessing the devastating loss in the stadium.

Andy Payne travelled across the United States to watch every match with his wife Kirsty, and admitted she was left “destroyed”.

He said: “This is my third World Cup semi-final, and Kirsty’s second, and to say the least, we’re used to this disappointment. We came so close today, I thought we were going to do it.

“We’ve had a fantastic trip, England have played brilliantly well. Thomas Tuchel might get a lot of criticism for today but everything done so far has been great.

“We just couldn’t do it today, every single time England just don’t quite get there but that’s life.”

He went on: “As always with England, there’s tension. Frankly, what Tuchel has done is put his best team out, the best players he had who weren’t injured of the 11 went out. And this is the first time he didn’t change things early, it was late, it was getting on.

“When we saw the goal, my view and other people in the ground were the same, was this is a goal that is decided on one goal. We thought we’ve got one goal, we might get two, we’ve got them, we’ve done this.

“And unfortunately, I think Tuchel looked at his team and went, ‘well how am I going to improve this team?’ because the players that weren’t on the field either weren’t the best players or were injured.”

Talking about the atmosphere in Atlanta Stadium, Andy agreed it was “the most extraordinary place to be”.

He went on: “For me, it was the best atmosphere bar one. The Azteca where we beat Mexico, but listen, I’ve seen England play Argentina now in 1986… I was there, we were outnumbered that day. 1998, I was there, we were hugely outnumbered by Argentinians.

“Today we were hugely outnumbered, the atmosphere was unbelievable. Every single England fan who was there was behind the team.

“None of the England fans who were in that ground boo’ed the players. We were disappointed, of course, we lost the game from 1-nil up with six, seven minutes to play.

“We fell short, and that’s England really, isn’t it? But all the people around me were as disappointed as I was, but we’ve had a good tournament and the team spirit was unbelievable.

“And we gave those boys a good send-off at the end. They came to us and they saluted us and we saluted them.

“It’s not a matter of life or death, it’s a game of football.”

BBC Breakfast airs daily from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer.

England’s football team were playing Argentina on Wednesday night in the World Cup semi-finals.

World Cup viewers were quick to spot the familiar face in the crowd during the latest match.

Tensions were at an all-time high on Wednesday night (July 15) as BBC viewers saw the England football team try to earn a spot in the World Cup final as they went head-to-head with Argentina.

As the game began, the camera panned to the live audience who were watching the match unfold in Atlanta. However, BBC viewers were quick to notice a famous face in the crowd who was there to support the England squad.

Taking to X, one person said: “WAS THAT LOUIS TOMLINSON IN THE AUDIENCE. IT WAAASSSSS AAAAA.” Another wrote: “Louis Tomlinson is there. Oh my god.” Someone else commented: “LOUIS TOMLINSON SPOTTED AT THE #WorldCup”

A third shared: “Louis Tomlinson blessing our screens at the England game tonight was everything I needed.” While a fourth person wrote: “I’m already satisfied with the match cause I saw Louis Tomlinson in the crowd #WorldCup #England.”

The former One Direction star wasn’t the only famous face who was spotted in the crowd, either, as Rolling Stones legend Mick Jagger was also there to support the team.

Elsewhere during the game, Argentina fans have caused outrage with viewers as they were heard booing during England’s national anthem before kick-off began, although the Three Lions supporters retaliated with boos of their own.

Recently, Thomas Tuchel came under fire for his comments made after the 2-1 match against Norway, as he made critiques on the technical side of England’s performance.

When an interviewer asked Jude Bellingham what he thought of his manager’s remarks, he replied: “Yeah, well… whatever. Whatever. It’s difficult out there. It’s a tough shift.”

Discussing the comments, Thomas Tuchel told The Guardian there is no issues between them as he said: “Our comments come from the same place – from being competitive and having the edge when competition is on.

“He [Bellingham] was just confronted with a critique of my side. I [also] called him a world-class player. I said he had world-class actions again to decide the match. I said the mentality is outstanding of this team. All of that was not part of the question.

“I would maybe also bite back when I come from 120 minutes, score two goals and give literally everything that is in my body. It’s just a very normal reaction for a player of his mindset. So no problem.”

The World Cup final airs on Sunday, July 19, on BBC One from 8pm

The BBC has launched a new crime drama by the creator of Unforgotten starring John Simm alongside some other famous names

BBC viewers wasted no time sharing their reactions to the broadcaster’s latest crime drama.

Written by Chris Lang, the celebrated creator behind Unforgotten, Innocent, The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe, I, Jack Wright is a compelling whodunnit starring Nikki-Amuka Bird, John Simm, Daniel Rigby, Ruby Ashbourne-Serkis, Zoë Tapper, Percelle Ascott, Harry Lloyd and Liz Kingsman.

A synopsis reads: “I, Jack Wright, is a propulsive whodunnit with family secrets at its core. The apparent death by suicide of high-powered businessman Jack Wright (played by Trevor Eve) sends shockwaves through his family, leaving a mystery that pits greed, loyalty and suspicion against one another.

“As his many wives and children fight over the remains of his estate, a dogged police detective investigates – and uncovers the shocking truth about this well-heeled clan.”

Within minutes of the opening episode airing on BBC One on Sunday, July 12, viewers were sharing their thoughts on social media, reports Wales Online.

And it appears many were caught off guard when legendary actor Eve’s character met his demise almost immediately after the opening credits finished.

One viewer remarked: “Eddie Shoestring didn’t last long in this,” referencing Eve’s ’80s private detective TV drama Shoestring.

Another added: “Looked at the cast for #IJackWright and thought ooh, nice! Then one of my favourite actors character was dead in the first 5 minutes! Hopefully there’ll be some flashback scenes.”

Yet despite Jack Wright’s swift demise, audiences appeared to embrace the whodunit, with one viewer remarking: “It’s a bit like Cluedo.”

Another enthused: “ooh blimey! Binge time!”

The drama was filmed across London, particularly Holborn and Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Paris, and Hertfordshire. The Wright family’s main home, Marston House, was shot at the Mansion House North Mymms Park.

I, Jack Wright first debuted in April 2025 on UandAlibi before being acquired by the BBC. This means not only will the first series be repeated by the broadcaster, but they’ve also secured the second series, which is presently in production.

The inaugural series consists of six episodes altogether. The first episode premiered on BBC One on Sunday, 12 July, as part of a double bill.

Those who relished the opening two instalments won’t have long to wait, as episodes three and four will be shown on Monday, 13 July. Episodes five and six are scheduled to air on Sunday, 19 July.

I, Jack Wright airs on BBC One and BBC iPlayer

Sherlock’s co-creator and co-writer has hinted at a potential fifth series of the BBC drama

With hit detective drama Sherlock now nearing a decade-long hiatus, bosses have offered an update.

Co-creator and co-writer Steven Moffat has teased the possibility of a fifth series of the immensely popular BBC programme.

The modern-day adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic literary works starred Benedict Cumberbatch as the legendary detective, with Martin Freeman as his faithful sidekick Dr John Watson.

After four three-episode series, plus a one-off special – The Abominable Bride – in 2016, the show entered a break in 2017 following the transmission of The Final Problem, leaving its fate up in the air.

Steven, who co-created and co-wrote the show with Mark Gatiss, has expressed hope about bringing the team back together, and has a definite plan should that wish materialise.

“If I can persuade everybody else, of course I’d revisit it,” he disclosed during an appearance on the Half the Picture podcast, reports Digital Spy. “Can you ever say that you’ve run out of Sherlock Holmes stories? There are 60 originals. We’ve done, what is it, 13 or 14?”.

“There’s loads more you could do with Sherlock. I’d quite like to revisit it simply because they would now – our two leads – be the normal age for Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson,” he explained.

“We were conscious that we were doing the beginning of the story… So I’d quite like to see them as their more middle-aged, settled versions.. I don’t think it’s used up,” the writer remarked, who also co-created and co-wrote the BBC’s Dracula alongside Gatiss, reports the Express.

Steven also cast his mind back over his “extraordinary” stint with the beloved detective drama, which overlapped with his time as showrunner on the BBC’s iconic science fiction series Doctor Who.

He described it as a “manic time”, admitting he never “stopped working”.

“I loved that show. I look at it now and I watch it, and I think all of it is excellent,” he said of Sherlock. “I just think it’s really well made, beautifully acted, and dare I say it, [a] beautifully written show. I think it’s cracking. And I’m massively proud of it. And I miss it.”

While Moffat is clearly eager to return to the world of 221B Baker Street, a comeback looks unlikely any time soon, as Gatiss confirmed in June 2025 that Cumberbatch and Freeman “didn’t want to do any more” episodes (via RadioTimes).

Sherlock aired on BBC One and streams on BBC iPlayer.

EastEnders legend Letitia Dean found love with Holby City star before they parted ways

EastEnders legend Letitia Dean was once married to a television star before their “upsetting” divorce.

Fans of the BBC soap will be delighted as Letitia has reprised her role as Sharon Watts and returned to Walford on Thursday (July 9). She is one of the show’s long-running characters, having appeared in the first episode, which aired in February 1985, as the adoptive daughter of Angie (Anita Dobson) and Den Watts (Leslie Grantham).

From that scandalous affair with the Mitchell brothers during the 90s, to plotting Ian Beale’s (Adam Woodyatt) murder, suffering the loss of her son Denny, and covering up Keanu Taylor’s death, there is nothing Sharon hasn’t been involved in.

Away from the drama of Albert Square, we take a peek at Letitia’s real life, including her marriage to a Holby City star.

Letitia’s rise to fame

Born in Hertfordshire, Letitia and her brother Stephen joined The Sylvia Mitchell School of Dance as children before joining the esteemed Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts at 10 years old. In her early teens, she became a professional performer and landed roles on hit shows including Brookside and Grange Hill.

The 58-year-old soap star, from Potters Bar, orginally played Sharon from 1985 until 1995, and reprised the role from 2001 to 2006. She then made an epic comeback to Walford in 2012.

Appearing alongside co-star Adam Woodyatt on the EastEnders spin-off show Secrets from the Square in 2020, Letitia revealed she lied to producers to get her role as Sharon Watts.

Letitia admitted: “I don’t really remember the audition that much. I know there were quite a few recalls. They were looking far and wide”, but there was one major problem.

The biggest requirement to land a role in the show was that the producers were looking for real Cockneys – people from East London who have a Cockney accent, so Letitia lied and said she was from the area.

Letitia continued: “We had to be born ‘within the sound of Bow bells'”, before adding: “I told a porky!”.

She added: “I said my parents had to go and work away, and I was staying with somebody in ‘the sound of Bow bells’. I do remember getting the job and getting the call. I remember that quite clearly. It was just so exciting.”

Is Letitia Dean married?

Letitia tends not to talk much about her relationships and generally keeps her private life out of the public eye.

However, in 2001, she hit the headlines when it was revealed she was engaged to actor and businessman Jason Pethers, who is perhaps best known for portraying Rob Greening in Holby City.

The couple got engaged after a few months of knowing each other and tied the knot at All Saints’ Church in Marylebone in 2002.

While there were many of her EastEnders castmates at the wedding, Susan Tully, who played Michelle Fowler, acted as her bridesmaid.

But it wasn’t meant to be for the TV stars as they split in 2007. The marriage reportedly ended due to a difference in their plans for starting a family.

Talking about their tough separation during another chat with the Mirror at the time, Letitia admitted that she and Jason are ‘in a good place’, despite having parted ways.

She revealed: “I do not regret one minute of my time with Jay. I was in love – desperately in love – and I can’t reiterate enough how thankful I am that I did get married to that man.”

Letitia added: “As a couple you can, hopefully, go down the same path together as long as you share the same desires and dreams. Unfortunately, many of us fork off in different directions.

“This is the first time I’ve ever talked about what happened, but I’m quite practical about this now. I’ve got nothing but good things to say about Jason. But sometimes you just grow out of each other, maybe.

“I did think that by waiting until a bit later in life for marriage, I would know more, and it would last. But none of us can predict. Of course, I didn’t want this to happen, and neither did he, but it did and though it’s upsetting, you just have to get on with it. You have to be strong.”

At the time, Jason’s mum, Joan, said the couple decided to split because Letitia wanted children, while her husband preferred to wait before having them, the Daily Mirror reported.

She said, “They both wanted children, but Jason wanted to wait until he could afford it. She had a lot more money than him. I think, like any man, he wanted to look after his wife.

“They were happy. It was no dramatic thing – they haven’t found someone else. I guess they just fell out of love for the time being.”

Since their separation, Letitia has yet to go public with another romance.

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer

The BBC has confirmed that David Mitchell’s comedy-drama Ludwig will return for a third series, even before its eagerly awaited second season premieres

The BBC has announced that David Mitchell’s popular comedy-drama Ludwig will be back for a third series.

Even before its highly anticipated second season launches later this year. The detective programme, which is ideal for fans of Death In Paradise, has become the broadcaster’s most successful scripted show since 2024, leading executives to commission another run for both BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Made by Big Talk Studios, in partnership with That Mitchell and Webb Company, the series is also a co-production with Germany’s ZDF. The programme’s first series proved an enormous ratings triumph, becoming the BBC’s most successful comedy debut since at least 2018, reports the Express.

Its initial run drew 9.5 million viewers within its first 28 days, while the opening episode has steadily grown its audience, achieving an impressive 11.8 million viewers in total.

Created and penned by Mark Brotherhood, the six-part mystery features David Mitchell as the unconventional puzzle-enthusiast detective Ludwig, with Anna Maxwell Martin portraying Lucy Betts-Taylor, the wife of the missing James Betts-Taylor. Both performers are confirmed to return to their roles when the series comes back.

Expressing his delight at the third series commission, actor David Mitchell told the BBC: “I am delighted that Ludwig will be returning to solve more of Mark Brotherhood’s brilliant mysteries. I can’t wait to get started and have renewed the subscription on my denouement-learning app.”

Meanwhile, Kenton Allen, Executive Producer and CEO of Big Talk Studios, said: “Ludwig has become one of those rare shows that genuinely cuts through – critically, commercially and internationally. We’re hugely grateful to the BBC, ZDF and ITV Studios for the confidence they’ve shown in greenlighting a third season ahead of the launch of series two.”

He went on to say: “What Mark Brotherhood has created is brilliantly original, hugely entertaining and deceptively distinctive in the way it blends smart comedy with a richly satisfying detective engine. At the heart of that success is the remarkable partnership between David Mitchell and Anna Maxwell Martin, brought to life by an exceptional creative team.

“In a crowded global market, for audiences to have embraced Ludwig on this scale feels incredibly special. There’s clearly nothing puzzling about that.”

Jon Petrie, BBC Director of Comedy Commissioning, added: “Ludwig is exactly the kind of smart, distinctive, audience-pleasing show we love at BBC Comedy. Sharp writing, a compelling story, big laughs and, naturally, a generous helping of puzzles. The team at Big Talk have crafted something truly distinctive and much-loved, and we’re excited to see what mysteries Ludwig tackles next.”

Ludwig is produced by Big Talk Studios in collaboration with That Mitchell and Webb Company for the BBC. The third series, comprising six hour-long episodes, will once again be penned by creator Mark Brotherhood, with Chris Foggin returning to helm the show as lead director.

Ludwig series one is currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

The Blue Peter presenter was a familiar face on our TV screens in the 90s and early 2000s

A Blue Peter icon has carved out an entirely new career path away from kids’ TV.

Katy Hill shot to fame in the late 90s across some of the biggest TV and radio programmes around.

She fronted much-loved children’s show CBBC Blue Peter from 1995 to 2000 and spent five years taking on incredible stunts, including flying with the RAF’s Red Arrows team, a feat no civilian had achieved before.

Riding high on her success and widespread popularity, she moved across to BBC One’s Live and Kicking until 2001. The star then presented Top of the Pops, Football Fever, BBC’s Holiday and her very own weekend show on Capital FM.

Katy was also a regular contributor to glossy publications such as Cosmopolitan Hair and Beauty, Hello! and Closer.

In 2004, she claimed second place on Channel 4’s The Games. As her career progressed, she hosted programmes for Heart Radio, penned weekly blogs and stepped in as a stand-in presenter on ITV’s Daybreak.

During an appearance on Good Morning Britain last year, Katy shared her lifelong passion for presenting, saying: “I wanted to present that show since I was five.

“It was because this was the ’70s, right, you guys know this? There had been no girl power. That was the place I saw girls jumping out of planes, flying fast jets and fast cars. Generally, it’s pretty cool. I was like: ‘That’s the job for me!'”

However, nowadays, Katy, 55, is far less visible on our television screens, having transitioned into life coaching after establishing her own business.

Describing herself as an ‘Internationally Certified Success and Confidence Coach’, she regularly shares motivational content across social media. Katy also runs her own newsletter, The Limitless List, which delivers inspiring quotes and uplifting messages.

Alongside her television work, she now provides programmes, live groups and one-to-one coaching sessions to support her members.

Katy’s Instagram bio reads: “The shy kid who refused to play small and spent 30 years on TV! Now empowering women like YOU to UNLOCK your CONFIDENCE and CLAIM the SUCCESS you deserve!”

Katy is happily married to Trey Farley, her former co-presenter on Live and Kicking. The couple have been blissfully married for over two decades and share two children, daughter Kaya and son Akira.

In July 2023, Katy and Trey celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary, with the former television presenter sharing a touching tribute to her husband on social media.

She posted photographs from their wedding day and wrote: “20 Years of US! 20 Years of Mr and Mrs Farley! What a ride we’re on @rocaflix … nobody else I’d rather be doing LIFE with! Happy 20 babe! Let’s make more amazing memories! X (Ours was the Hans Zimmer version – obvs!)”

Prior to marrying Trey, Katy was previously wed to her childhood sweetheart, Andrew Frampton. They tied the knot in 1999 but separated in 2001.

EXCLUSIVE: Former Hollyoaks star Emma Rigby says she’d like to ‘sit down’ with Andrews and discover what she is willing to admit to, 30 years after the crime

The actress who plays Tracie Andrews in a new drama about the 1996 “road rage” killing of her fiancé Lee Harvey has revealed her desire to interview the convicted murderer about what really happened.

Emma Rigby, best known for her role as Hannah Ashworth in Hollyoaks, said: “I would love to make a documentary following a sit down between the two of us. I have so many questions for her. She has never told the truth on camera, it would be interesting to see what story she would tell now.”

Emma, who also starred in BBC1’s Prisoners’ Wives, was seven years old at the time of Lee’s death and knew nothing about the case before being approached for the role. To prepare, she watched many documentaries and read the book Pure Evil by Lee’s mother Maureen., played in the drama by The Witcher’s Jo Marriott.

An “avid consumer of true crime”, Emma she found Andrews’ psychology to be “fascinating” – but struggled to find one iota of sympathy for her. “The most chilling moments are when we used transcripts of what Tracie actually said,” she explained. “Her tone is terrifying and her lack of remorse is extremely sad. Tracie is the very definition of chilling. Her behaviour is shockingly unbelievable.”

The 90-minute drama, Suspect: The Road Rage Killer, will show how Tracie, then 27, was so desperate to find fame as a model, that she enjoyed being centre of attention at the press conference – even though she would quickly expose herself as a suspect rather than a witness.

“Tracie has many facets, her wanting to be on camera was one of them,” Emma says. “It was important to show how Tracie’s demise was essentially giving the camera too much.”

She said that playing her meant getting right into her head, where she found no redeeming features. “I can believe that in her way she loved Lee, and relate to a toxic situation masquerading as an all-consuming love, but this does not extend to sympathy for her actions,” Emma said. “The more I consumed, the more horrified I became. Each new detail that emerged was more shocking than the last, it makes for a gripping drama.”

Thirty years ago, Andrews was found covered in blood next to the body of her fiance Lee on a dark country lane near to their home in Alvechurch, Worcestershire. She was later found to have stabbed him in the neck and chest 42 times during an argument as they drove home from a local pub. The crime was pre-meditated, as she had hidden a knife inside her boot.

Having murdered the man she was due to marry, Andrews concocted a story about a road rage incident and said that Lee had been killed by a man in another car with “starey eyes”. But this unravelled when she contradicted statements she’d already made at the televised press conference.

The actress has struggled to understand how Andrews can have launched such a frenzied attack on bus-driver Lee, 25, who she claimed to adore. “I can believe that in her way she loved Lee, and relate to a toxic situation masquerading as an all-consuming love, but this does not extend to sympathy for her actions,” Emma said.

After being given a life sentence for murder, Andrews served the minimum 14 years before being released in 2011. Now living under the name Jenna Stephens in a southern coastal town, she married bouncer and dad-of-two Phil Goldsworthy in 2017. Two years after she was jailed Andrews, who had a history of violent attacks on her partner, admitted to killing Lee, but insisted it was done in self-defence.

Emma, 36, said it was shocking how little remorse Andrews showed over what she had done. “The key element is Tracie’s apathy – which is offset by her complete conviction to come out on top, whatever the cost.”

The actress said she’d loved getting her teeth into the meaty role, and hopes it will lead to more challenging parts being offered to her. “I hope it will reveal a whole new dimension to what I can do,” she said. “Tracie is my first onscreen role playing a real person and is someone many people are familiar with, due to the iconic press conference. I wanted to give a raw and very real performance,” she explained. “As an actor I had the most enjoyable time playing Tracie; I really loved the grit.”

– Under Suspicion: Tracie Andrews – Lover, Liar, Killer, Channel 5, Monday 13 July, 9pm

Wimbledon was rocked by a stunning upset on Saturday as defending champion Iga Świątek was knocked out in the third round

There were tears on Centre Court as one Champion was knocked out of the tennis competition.

Wimbledon entered its sixth day of intense action on Saturday (July 4) as competitors battled to secure their place in the fourth round. The compelling order of play featured Emma Navarro (USA) going up against Marta Kostyuk (UKR) on Court Two, while Arthur Fery flew the flag for Great Britain on Court 18 against Belgium’s Zizou Bergs, amongst numerous other fixtures.

Yet it was Centre Court that left spectators utterly stunned as the Philippines’ Alexandra Eala squared off against Poland’s Iga Świątek. Presently sitting third in the global women’s singles rankings, Świątek, 25, is a six-time Grand Slam winner and was competing to retain her title.

Świątek secured her maiden Wimbledon crown last summer when she delivered a devastating 6-0, 6-0 final triumph over Amanda Anisimova. However, she has now been eliminated from this year’s tournament.

Throughout the gripping third-round encounter with 29th seed Eala, Świątek surrendered the opening set in an extraordinary tie-break, 21-19, before collapsing in the second set, going down 7-6 (11-9) 6-2.

While BBC One was broadcasting the Arthur Fery fixture, presenter Clare Balding broke in to confirm that Eala has created history as the first Filipino player to advance to the fourth round of a major championship, reports the Express.

Speaking live from the BBC studios at Wimbledon, in London, Clare announced: “Let us bring you up to date with a major shock. The defending champion, Iga Świątek, is out of Wimbledon, and Alex Eala is the first player from the Philippines ever to reach the fourth round here.

“A huge result, she is immensely popular all around the world, and gets really big crowds following her. Eala is only 21, and this is a massive moment for her, and indeed for the Philippines.”

Having clinched her winning point, Eala collapsed to the ground before swiftly rising to her feet to pay tribute to her opponent, Świątek.

Visibly overcome with emotion during her on-court interview, Eala reflected on her childhood, when such an achievement could only have been the stuff of dreams.

“I’m really emotional. For someone like Iga, who has won so many Grand Slams, or maybe like Serena or Venus, this achievement may seem small but for someone who grew up in the Philippines it is huge,” she said as the crowd cheered.

“I went to train with my brother and my grandfather every day after school with my ruffled socks, light-up shoes, and chubby cheeks, so to younger me, this is everything. But, obviously, just because I’m emotional does not mean I’m satisfied, so next round let’s go!”

All the latest action from Wimbledon is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

BBC viewers paid tribute to Dame Penelope Keith, following her death aged 86, as the broadcaster aired a special episode of The Good Life.

BBC viewers have been left “heartbroken” as they paid tribute to an iconic actress.

In a change to scheduled programming, the broadcaster made the decision to honour Dame Penelope Keith with a classic episode of The Good Life on Monday, June 29.

Dame Penelope, star of the 1970s British sitcom, died aged 86, with her family releasing a statement.

They said she “died peacefully whilst living with cancer at her home in Surrey”.

As fans mourned the To the Manor Born actress and friends paid tribute, the BBC confirmed the Margo Leadbetter actress would be remembered with the episode airing on BBC Two.

From the third series of The Good Life, it followed war breaking out between the Goods and the Leadbetters, “proving there is nothing like a good fight over the fence to cement relationships”.

Jon Petrie, Director of BBC Comedy said: “All of us at BBC Comedy are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dame Penelope Keith. She was one of the defining figures of British television comedy.

“Her iconic performance as Margo in The Good Life remains one of the nation’s most beloved sitcom roles and continues to delight audiences today.

“We send our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and all of those who had the privilege of working with her.”

Watching the repeat episode, one person wrote on X: “Just watched #TheGoodLife on bbc as a tribute to Penelope Keith. Still very good!”

Another said: “Lovely to watch #thegoodlife. it brings back memories of when I was a kid. RIP Penelope Keith.”

A third wrote: “Genuinely had something in my eye as soon as the theme tune came on #TheGoodLife #DamePenelopeKeith Thank you BBC2.”

Someone else said: “I’m indulging in some pre-dinner #TheGoodLife on #BBCTwo in honour of #PenelopeKeith RIP.”

Paying their respects, one person said: “I am shocked and now, heartbroken. … Absolutely love this lady. I’ve watched #TheGoodLife so many times, over the years and it just becomes even more funny each time I watch it – seeing/hearing something that I’ve missed previously… I think another “binge-watch” of “The Good Life” is now due. In honour of the beloved #DamePenelopeKeith.”

Someone else wrote: “Pleasing to see BBC 2 scheduling an episode of The Good Life at 7 this evening, by way of tribute to the wonderfully talented Penelope Keith. Hopefully there will be more in the coming weeks. A Penelope Keith night on BBC 4?”

The statement from Dame Penelope’s family read: “We are deeply saddened to announce that Dame Penelope Keith died peacefully whilst living with cancer at her home in Surrey where she had lived for more than 50 years.

“The family is grateful for the care and support she received throughout her treatments, and ask that their privacy be respected at this time.”

The Good Life is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

The presenter has returned to leading Wimbledon coverage alongside Clare Balding on the BBC

Wimbledon has returned to BBC screens, with a whole host of familiar faces fronting the BBC ’s coverage.

Once again joining Clare Balding in leading commentary, Isa Guha will be presenting, having made her Wimbledon debut on the BBC in 2022.

The following year, it was confirmed The Celebrity Traitors star Clare would be replacing Sue Barker as the BBC’s face of Wimbledon, with Isa praising Sue, saying: “She’s got an incredible warmth. When you watch her on television she feels like a friend.

“She was someone I certainly watched when I was younger, never imagined that I’d even be in her company so to be sat there with her and see how she goes about her business, her offering me advice and so forth, it was a little bit surreal but at the same time we’re just watching her in awe because she’s been the face of the BBC for such a long time and we absolutely respect and admire everything she’s done for sports broadcasting as a female.

“It was just an incredible time last year. The ability to be there with Sue, see how she operates, the doyenne of sports broadcasting, and to be in Clare Balding’s company and all these legends. It was a pretty amazing experience.”

Inside Isa Guha’s career

Born in Buckinghamshire in 1985 to parents who emigrated from Calcutta, India, to the UK in the 1970s, Isa is a former England cricketer.

She fit her sporting career around her academics, graduating with a degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from UCL, and later gaining an MPhil in neuroscience.

At the same time, Isa played world class cricket, later recalling to The Telegraph that “a phase” led her to studying.

“I went through a phase after we won the World Cup of ‘what am I going to do with my life?’” she said.

“I would spend three or four days a week training in the morning and then going to university. It took seven years [attempting to do a PhD] and I wanted to quit after the second year because it was just too much.”

She played in the 2005 South Africa World Cup and the 2009 Australia World Cup, and made history as the first South Asian woman to represent England after making her international cricketing debut at the age of 17.

In 2009, Isa was named the ICC number one ranked bowler in the world.

She announced her retirement from international cricket in 2012, and has since moved onto presenting and commentary.

Isa joined ITV Sport in 2012, co-presenting cricket coverage, and later moved on to work for Sky Sports and Fox.

In 2020, she became the lead presenter of the BBC’s test match and ODI highlights show.

Who is Isa Guha’s husband?

Isa married her long-term partner, musician Richard Thomas, in 2018.

Hailing from Cornwall, the singer was a member of acoustic-led, alternative rock band Brothers and Bones.

After ten years together, the band broke up at the end of 2020, having opened tours for the likes of Ben Howard and Bastille.

In September 2018, Isa took to X to share pictures from her gorgeous wedding in Cornwall, writing: “It’s been a challenging year but with this incredible human by my side I know I can get through anything. So lucky to have him in my life – these two pics pretty much sum up our amazing day, with so many of our best friends and family.”

She also previously spoke about the difficult time it had been for her family, after her mother received a cancer diagnosis not long before the wedding.

Speaking of her wedding, she told The Telegraph in a 2019 interview: “We got her out of hospital and did a small, intimate ceremony, then the following week in Cornwall, Ebony [Rainford-Brent – Guha’s former teammate] was on FaceTime to her throughout the whole wedding. She did get to see us get married.”

Praising her husband for his support, particularly after her mother’s death in January 2019, she added to the publication: “He was just incredible. I am super lucky to have him in my life. He was just amazing, the last six months or so.”

Wimbledon airs on BBC One, BBC Two and iPlayer.

Death in Paradise fans instantly recognised the star behind drug lord Miranda Priestly.

Death in Paradise fans were swift to work out where they’d seen drug lord Miranda Priestly before.

Death in Paradise returned tonight, Sunday, June 28, on BBC One for a classic instalment of everyone’s beloved cosy crime drama.

This time round, DS Florence Cassell (portrayed by Josephine Jobert) assumes an undercover position as the nanny for Miranda Priestly (Victoria Ekanoye), a formidable drug lord.

It fell to Florence in this two-part special to penetrate Miranda’s drug operation, but BBC audiences couldn’t help being distracted by the star playing this week’s antagonist.

Who is Victoria Ekanoye?

Death in Paradise welcomed actress Victoria Ekanoye to play Miranda Priestly in the two-part special which originally broadcast three years ago.

Before her guest appearance in Death in Paradise, Ekanoye enjoyed a two-year spell in none other than ITV’s Coronation Street as Angie Appleton.

Internationally, Ekanoye is perhaps best recognised for portraying Rachel, the devoted confidante and aide to Elizabeth Hurley’s Queen Helena in The Royals.

Some of her other most prominent screen roles have included Girl Taken, The Turkish Detective, Doctors and The Worst Witch.

However, before she shifted her focus to television, Ekanoye launched her career in musical theatre, performing in the West End’s The Lion King as Queen Sarabi and Nala.

She has also tried her hand at singing, appearing in the 2019 series of The X Factor: Celebrity, where she competed in the “Over 31s” category.

The 44 year old was represented by judge Nicole Scherzinger and finished in 11th place.

Ekanoye has a number of exciting projects in the works, including the forthcoming BBC drama The Split Up, which serves as a spin-off of the hugely popular legal series The Split.

Furthermore, the actress is set to appear in a romantic drama called As Bad as Me, as well as An English Christmas Wish, which is anticipated to land later this year.

Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Two Weeks in August’s cast is led by none other than a Call the Midwife legend.

Two Weeks in August is drawing to a close, but the BBC has already revealed what’s stepping in to fill the gap.

Call the Midwife star Jessica Raine heads up the cast of black comedy Two Weeks in August, an eight-part series following a group of old friends who reunite for a well-deserved holiday in Greece.

However, a stolen kiss triggers a “chain reaction of infidelity, breakdowns, and escalating chaos”.

The final two 45-minute episodes air tonight, Saturday, June 27, on BBC One, with the complete boxset also available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

Ahead of its BBC One broadcast, it has now been confirmed that not one but two programmes will be stepping into its coveted Saturday primetime slot next week.

The first of the two shows taking over from Two Weeks in August on Saturday, July 4, at the slightly earlier time of 8.30pm, is The Weakest Link.

With comedian Romesh Ranganathan assuming hosting duties from the iconic Anne Robinson, celebrity contestants will include JLS star JB Gill, actress Helen Flanagan and singer Toyah Willcox.

The Weakest Link will run for 45 minutes before BBC News and Weather, paving the way for the second replacement programme at 9.30pm.

Rounding off the evening, football enthusiasts will be treated to Match of the Day Live: Fifa World Cup 2026, as the BBC broadcasts coverage of the second round-of-16 match at the Philadelphia Stadium in the US.

The official description reads: “Lionel Messi made his 1,000th career appearance and scored a 789th career goal as he inspired Argentina to a 2-1 victory over Australia at this stage in Qatar in 2022.

“Julian Alvarez capitalised on an error by Aussie goalkeeper Mathew Ryan to double Argentina’s lead in the second-half, but the Socceroos halved the deficit when Craig Goodwin’s strike took a huge deflection off Enzo Fernández with a little under 15 minutes left, and if not for the excellence of Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez could have found a late equalizer.”

Match of the Day’s broadcast will run for three hours, with the special edition due to wrap up at 12.30am.

Two Weeks in August is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

Fans have branded the series the ‘best thing since toast’ and it’ll now be available to UK viewers.

Fans of BBC’s ‘masterpiece’ series Ghosts are about to get a new series to sink their teeth into.

The beloved sitcom starring Charlotte Ritchie and Kiell Smith-Bynoe ran from 2019 to 2023, leaving fans devastated at its axe.

But now, three years later, the Australian version will be landing on the BBC. The broadcaster has announced it has acquired the rights to the comedy series, which premiered last year.

The synopsis for the adaptation teases: “Young couple Kate and Sean inherit Ramshead Manor after the timely death of Kate’s great-uncle.

“Heading out to the country to inspect the dilapidated property, they debate whether to uproot their city lives and turn Ramshead into a boutique hotel. Unbeknownst to them, the manor is also home to an eclectic group of Ghosts…”

The cast includes Tamala as Kate and Rowan Witt as Sean, alongside Mandy McElhinney, Brent Hill, Ines English, Michelle Brasier, George Zhao and Jackson Tozer.

The eight-part series will land on BBC iPlayer and BBC Three soon, with Nick Lee, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition, saying: “It’s a fresh and very fun spin of the wheel for this beloved BBC format. Fans will really enjoy the world this new ghoulish gang create.”

Ghosts: Australia has already been hailed “excellent” by fans, with one calling it “the best thing since toast”. They went on: “With just enough familiarity to make one feel at home, but sprinkled with unique elements and spirit unlike any series seen before, Ghosts Australia is a must-watch.”

Another called the characters “magnificent”, while someone else wrote: “I’m so impressed with this adaptation! I binged the entire series in one night. The performances are outstanding, the production is stellar, and the writing is sharp, clever, and full of heart.”

Someone else said: “Call me biased because I’m Australian, but this feels like peak cinema chaotic, unforgettable masterpiece that somehow changes your life, steals your milk, borrows your sanity, and still leaves you grinning like it did you a favour in the end. Honestly, nothing else even comes close to this madness.”

The original UK sitcom Ghosts came to an end after five seasons, leaving fans heartbroken.

In a statement shared at the time, the Ghosts team said: “After five incredible years haunting the halls of Button House, we have decided that the time is right to let our beloved sitcom Ghosts rest in peace.

“We have just wrapped filming on our fifth and final series and we can’t wait to share it with you all later this year.

“We could never have imagined the reception the show has enjoyed, or the fun we have had making it, and we would like to thank our amazing cast and crew as well as everyone at BBC Comedy, BBC1 and Monumental Television for their tireless support.”

A highly-demanded feature film is now set to air, The Possession of Button House, with the cast and actors set to return.

“We never planned to come back,” the show’s creators said.

“But when we had the idea for this story, we all got so excited that we couldn’t resist returning to our haunted home for one more adventure.

“We can’t wait to be together and to welcome some brilliant new faces, to tell this soul-stirring tale of life and death.”

Ghosts is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

The Other Bennet Sister is returning for a three-part special this Christmas, with Ella Bruccoleri reprising her role.

Star of The Other Bennet Sister Ella Bruccoleri has revealed her fears for the hit period drama to return.

The Call the Midwife actress played Mary Bennet the BBC series, the over-looked middle sister of Pride and Prejudice.

Based on Janice Hadlow’s novel, The Other Bennet Sister followed Mary living a different life to her sisters, as she left Longbourn behind and travelled to London with her aunt and uncle.

After being forgotten in the original Jane Austen novel, this time, she stepped into her own story on her journey of self-discovery.

The Other Bennet Sister captured hearts of fans and proved to be the biggest launch of a new drama in the UK in a year, and is now set to return with a three-part Christmas special following its success.

However, just before the BBC confirmed its return, Ella admitted her nerves over the possibility of a second season.

She told Variety: “When something has felt really perfect and is being received in a lovely way, I’m a bit scared of touching it again.”

Following the season finale, which saw Mary receive her happy ending and getting married, she revealed her plans for her character.

Ella told the publication: “I can see them having this beautiful, equitable, quite progressive relationship for the time, where they both make decisions equally, and prioritize each other’s happiness. And I can see Mary continuing with her governessing.”

She continued: “It felt really important to me that Mary wanted to pass something on that she’d learned being a young woman, so I think she would want to pass that on in some way. I could see them being happy together and living a kind of bohemian London life.”

The Other Bennet Sister is now set for its return this Christmas, with the BBC having teased: “The final episode of the series saw Mary agreeing to wed Tom Hayward, but fans will be keen to know what challenges the future holds for the happy couple…”

In the announcement, Jane Tranter, Executive Producer and CEO of Bad Wolf, said: “We always hoped audiences would fall in love with Mary Bennet’s story, but the response to The Other Bennet Sister has exceeded even our most optimistic expectations.

“These Christmas specials give us the chance to spend a little more time with characters audiences have taken to their hearts, and to explore what happens after the wedding bells fade and real life begins.

“Returning to the world of Mary Bennet with our brilliant partners at the BBC and BritBox feels like the perfect way to celebrate the success of the series and give viewers a treat this Christmas.”

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama also said: “It’s been incredibly exciting to see Mary Bennet cause such a sensation in 2026, and we could not be happier to announce this new three-part Christmas gift to her millions of fans.

“Marriage was just the beginning for the no-longer-so-overlooked Bennet sister, and it’s a joy to be working with Sarah, Janice and the Bad Wolf team to let viewers discover what comes next.”

Jess O’Riordan, Commissioning Executive of BritBox North America, added: “We know how much audiences have fallen in love with Mary Bennet, and we’re thrilled that her story isn’t over yet.

“We are so pleased Mary’s story will continue for three more chapters and to welcome audiences back into the world of The Other Bennet Sister this holiday season.”

The Other Bennet Sister is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

The One Show presenters Alex Jones and Roman Kemp addressed an expletive on the programme.

The One Show presenter Roman Kemp issued an apology after a guest swore live on air.

The programme returned on Thursday, June 25, with Roman joining Alex Jones on the sofa.

They welcomed guests Kate Humble, Ben Fogle and Martin Clunes to the show, before it was thrown into chaos.

The Doc Martin star had been talking about the US version of the beloved programme emerging, starring Josh Charles in the leading role.

As a preview clip of it aired, Martin was asked about Josh’s spin on playing the grumpy doctor.

He replied: “He’s completely done his own thing, much nicer than me, less awkward and abrasive… he’s warm and better-looking.”

Martin then responded to a moment he just saw from the preview, adding: “I was just looking at that bit… they wouldn’t let me call the dog the son of a b***h, which I thought was funny.”

As the studio erupted into laughter, Roman rushed to apologise, saying: “I have to apologise quickly.”

Alex jokingly chastised Martin, adding: “You’ve been on a hundred times!”

Martin then turned to Ben, arguing: “He’s a vet… it’s a female dog!”

Continuing about the programme, Martin went on to address the future of the show, saying: “They’re going again, they’re doing another series.”

The Good Wife actor Josh will be starring in Best Medicine, with Sky previously teasing: “A US remake of UK television favourite Doc Martin, Best Medicine is a heartwarming new comedy-drama about a physician who moves to a small coastal town in the hopes of a quiet life.

“Dr Martin Best packs up his surgical career in Boston, Massachusetts and heads to start a new life as a physician in the coastal fishing town of Port Wenn in Maine. His aunt, a local lobster merchant, is nearby, and his new private practice is perfect for a simple life. Or so he thinks.

“Soon he’s introduced to Port Wenn’s community, filled with quirky but loving characters with no end of ailments for him to figure out and diagnose. However, as someone who is quite introverted and likes to keep himself to himself, he struggles with the adjustment.

“He’s also got a huge blood phobia – which doesn’t help his abilities as a doctor who may need to tend to wounds from time to time.

“But behind his brusque attitude and no-nonsense approach to a bedside manner, Dr Martin hides his own personal pain that he is hiding from the world which explains why he is the way he is. Will this little town bring him out of his shell?”

The One Show airs weeknights from 7pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

EastEnders Elaine Peacock star Harriet isn’t the only member of her family to star on the BBC soap

EastEnders star Harriet Thorpe is the sister of a well-known television actress.

As fans of the BBC soap will know, Harriet arrived in Walford as Elaine Peacock in May 2023 to reunite with her daughter Linda Carter (Kellie Bright).

The former Queen Vic landlord was soon revealed to be in a relationship with George Knight (Colin Salmon), Cindy Beale’s (Michelle Collins) former husband. Over the past three years, Elaine has gotten divorced, opened up her own Bed and Breakfast, and enjoyed a romance with Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt).

Away from EastEnders, the 69-year-old actress has starred in a number of other popular shows, and is famed for playing Carole Parkinson in the 1990s show The Brittas Empire.

She also worked with Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders many times over the years, from starring in eight episodes of their programme French and Saunders between 1987 and 2003 to portraying the recurring role of Fleur in Absolutely Fabulous from 1992 until 2012.

Harriet has held roles in Alexei Sayle’s Stuff, A Bit of Fry & Laurie, Casualty, Material Girl, Endeavour, Midsomer Murders, The Madame Blanc Mysteries, and The Bill.

Away from the small screen, Harriet has appeared in several films, including Calendar Girls, and has worked extensively on stage, with her acting in productions at the Royal National Theatre and in London’s West End.

Harriet previously opened up about her childhood and her relocation abroad with her family.

Appearing on Loose Women in 2024, Harriet discussed all things EastEnders and revealed that she has a famous sister who is an actress.

Talking about her childhood, where her family’s move to Los Angeles, Harriet said: “My sister and I, who is also an actress, Matilda Thorpe, we were little children at a normal state primary school. Do you remember the food? It was all sort of grey? Memories!

“Suddenly I was in Beverly Hills and we went to school and they had an ice cream machine. They had pizza and chocolate milk!”

Who is Harriet Thorpe’s famous sister?

Harriet’s sister, Matilda Thorpe, has certainly followed in her sibling’s footsteps and also has an impressive acting career.

Matilda is best known for her role as Mandy Mosgrove in Desmond’s from 1989 to 1994, before landing the roles of Mother in How to Be a Little Sod and Mandy in Porkpie.

More recent roles include Claire Glass in Sick Note, Nina in One Life, and Auntie Melody in Back to Black, a biographical film about Amy Winehouse.

However, in a coincidence, Matilda’s early career saw her land a role in EastEnders years before her sister Harriet’s debut. Matilda played Rachel Ford on the BBC One soap back in 1998.

Family life

Harriet and Matilda are the daughters of novelist Gillian Freeman, who penned The Leather Boys, and Edward Thorpe, an actor, novelist and the ballet critic of the Evening Standard.

Harriet welcomed two children, a son and a daughter, with her husband, Howard Baker, whom she reportedly married in 1989.

Her son, Jack Thorpe-Baker, previously acted and starred in The Brittas Empire, Life is Sweet, and Ballet Shoes, which also starred Emma Watson.

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer

The now-influencer appeared on BBC’s Song Marry Avoid when she was just 19-years-old

A woman who appeared on a popular BBC show says she had no choice but to turn down some major opportunities.

Sophie Bow received a dramatic ‘makeunder’ on BBC’s Snog Marry Avoid, which featured the sassy robotic style guru POD (Personal Overhaul Device).

Rather than being given a makeover, those who appeared on the show were given a ‘makeunder’ as they were persuaded less is more.

The show was a huge hit with fans in the late 00s with singer Jenny Frost followed by comedian and Strictly Come Dancing star Ellie Taylor as the host. The BBC Three show aired from 2008 until its sixth and final series in December 2013.

Sophie was just 19 when she first appeared on our TV screens, when she encountered POD as a teenager who loved lots of fake tan, heavy makeup and eye-catching outfits covered in sequins and glitter.

At the time, viewers fell in love with the teen and show bosses were keen to get her back on our TV screens for other projects.

Now 33, she has become a popular social media content creator but revealed that she was forced to turn down a number of TV opportunities because of her anxiety.

Looking back on her journey since appearing on Snog Marry Avoid, she took to TikTok and gave fans an update on her life today.

She started off by saying: “I would say appearing on telly back in the day definitely helped my career.

“Back then it was a very popular show but it disappeared off the face of the earth and no one knows why or where it went but it would be so good if they brought it back.”

She revealed: “After being on that show, I did actually get casted for the first ever Love Island but I was in a relationship. I’ve always been in a relationship so I never went on the show. “

However her relationship wasn’t the only thing holding her back as she explained: “But there have been so many opportunities that I actually did miss out on – throughout my life because I do have anxiety – I suffer badly with anxiety.

“I don’t really know what triggered it but I do get quite back anxiety. Even to this day I get asked on brand trips or anything outside my comfort zone, if I’m not going with somebody I can’t.”

The influencer added: “I really need to push myself to do more. I have a little boy and he is the best thing ever so I did take a little break from social media for a little while but then I did go back into social media.

“I did lose quite a lot of following from having the break then I started a TikTok account and here I am.”

Jennie Bond was BBC Royal Correspondent for 14 years and struck up a friendship with Lady Diana.

Jennie Bond’s illustrious journalism career stretches back over five decades, during which she has covered a vast array of remarkable stories.

In 1989, she took on the role of Royal Correspondent for the BBC, a position she held for 14 years before stepping down in 2003 to dedicate more time to her family and pursue freelance work.

During her time as a royal reporter, however, she forged a close friendship with Lady Diana, which she discussed with Raj Bisram during her appearance on Celebrity Antiques Road Trip. A repeat of that episode aired this evening (June 20) on BBC Two.

The BBC antiques expert quizzed her on just how close their relationship was, to which she responded: “I was a journalist that she got along with and shared confidences with.

“You know, ‘There were three of us in this marriage,’ all this sort of stuff.”

“Then, at the end, annoyingly, she’d say, ‘Of course, Jennie, this is just between you and me and these four walls.’ I’d think, ‘Ugh!’ So I kept it that way.”

Raj then asked which interview throughout Jennie’s career had left the greatest impression on her, reports Devon Live.

She answered: “I suppose, when I challenged her in Angola on the land mine mission, when she was trying to get an international ban on land mines.

“I said, ‘Ma’am, you’ve been accused of being a loose cannon,’ and she was very shocked and said, ‘I’m just trying to be a humanitarian. That’s it.'”.

“That was pretty momentous. It made an awful lot of news.”

At the time, Lady Diana was described as a ‘loose cannon’ by a junior government Cabinet minister who condemned her position on landmines.

The tense exchange, which took place in 1997, was captured in a documentary of the time, showing Lady Diana’s response to Jennie’s pointed question.

She said: “I’m only trying to highlight a problem that’s going on all around the world. That’s all.”

She was subsequently filmed climbing into a waiting car, visibly moved by Jennie’s remark, as she told the camera team: “I might really burst into tears now. Who said I’m a loose cannon?”

Celebrity Antiques Road Trip is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

Julia Donaldson and the BBC have a long festive association with hits including The Gruffalo, Zog and last year’s The Scarecrows’ Wedding

Children’s Author Julia Donaldson and the BBC have announced which of her stories they will be turning into an animation for Christmas 2026.

A half hour special of The Baddies is being made by production company Magic Light Pictures. It will feature all-star voice cast, with returning favourite Rob Brydon voicing Ghost, Alison Steadman as Witch, Hammed Animashaun as Troll, Robyn Cara as Girl, Francesca Mills as Mouse alongside Sheridan Smith as the Narrator.

Author Dame Julia Donaldson said: “The Baddies was enormous fun to write because I loved inventing these gloriously wicked characters and then thinking about what might happen when they finally meet someone brave enough to outwit them. Magic Light has done a brilliant job bringing the story to life and the cast have captured all the humour, silliness and spookiness perfectly.”

The Baddies is about the worst Baddies in the world – a troll and a ghost and a witch, who love nothing more than being bad and boasting about it. When a girl with a blue spotty hanky moves into a cottage nearby, the Baddies quarrel about all the nasty tricks they want to play on her.

Then a mouse sets a challenge for the Baddies to see who can steal the hanky. Soon they learn that they may have met their match in the little girl. The story is described as being “packed with mischief, humour and heart”, and is a celebration of courage, kindness and the power of standing up to bullies.

Narrator Sheridan Smith said: “I’ve always loved Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s stories, so it was such a joy to be part of bringing The Baddies to life. The film is funny, spooky and full of heart, and the animation is absolutely beautiful. I think families are going to have enormous fun watching these wonderful characters causing chaos this Christmas.”

The Baddies is adapted from the hugely successful picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

Previous adaptations include The Gruffalo, Zog and last year’s The Scarecrows’ Wedding which pulled in 8.7 million viewers across the festive period

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, said: “It’s with a mix of excitement and trepidation that we welcome The Baddies to BBC iPlayer and BBC One this Christmas. I’d like to assure everyone at home that we’ll be working very closely with Julia, Axel and the team at Magic Light to keep viewers safe from Ghost, Witch and Troll’s dastardly deeds.”

The aniamation will go out and Christmas Day on BBC1. Previous adaptions of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s works are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

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BBC Breakfast viewers were left in hysterics after a schoolgirl’s response to the social media ban.

A schoolgirl has gone viral for her response to a BBC presenter’s question about the social media ban.

Sir Keir Starmer announced on Monday, June 15, that under-16s will be banned from using social media to protect their health and safety.

He said the ban would give children more time, freedom and opportunities, adding: “That is all any parent wants. They want to know that Britain will be better for their children, that they will get a fair chance.”

If passed in parliament, the ban will come into force by spring 2027, the Prime Minister added.

Not everyone has been left thrilled with the announcement, including several children who will see their social media usage taken away.

One teen appeared on BBC Breakfast, and had a reaction that left viewers “howling”.

While presenters Jon Kay and Sally Nugent were in the studio, BBC journalist Fiona Lamdin broadcast live from a school in Tarleton, Lancashire.

She began: “I’m just outside Preston at Tarleton Academy, as I arrived this morning, I watched the pupils. These pupils are from year seven to year nine so aged 11-14.

“Like many schools across the country, they put their phone in a pouch which is then locked, a magnetic lock and they cannot then get to that throughout the whole school day.

“This school is completely phone-free. I have to say, we have asked with the permission of the head for the pupils to get their phones out this morning so we can get their screen time.”

Fiona then spoke to various students whose screen times from the weekend were several hours.

One child thought his would be between two and four hours, but actually had ten hours of screen time on one day, which, he said, was mostly spent on TikTok, “scrolling because I’m bored”.

“I’ll just have to adapt, maybe go read a book or go outside,” he admitted, if the changes were to come in force. “I’ll feel quite disappointed, because I’ve got nothing else to do throughout the day, so I’ll just have to do other things that will be fun.”

While he had given options of things he could do if he were to be banned from social media, another school child wasn’t so convinced.

Just hours later, BBC Breakfast returned to Fiona in Lancashire, after Sir Keir’s announcement, as she caught up with the children after the ban had been announced.

Most of the students revealed their disappointment, and schoolgirl Isabella shared: “I didn’t think it would actually happen, l kind of thought he would chicken out of it and give it more time or more consideration but he seems pretty sure of it and I’m not sure if I agree with him.”

She said she was most worried about not being able to contact her friends, adding that she mainly used social media to speak to her family.

After revealing her screen time over the weekend was nine hours, Isabella was asked by Fiona what she would now do with her spare time.

Isabella’s dead pan response followed: “Stare at a wall.”

Viewers were left in hysterics, re-sharing the clip on social media as one person captioned it: “This diva’s got the best reaction to the social media ban x.”

“Icon,” one person replied, as another said: “SCREAMING.” “HOWLING,” another wrote, while one person added: “Nahh she’s jokes.”

BBC Breakfast airs daily from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer.

Stacey Solomon and her Sort Your Life Out team left an East Sussex family in tears with a heartfelt tribute to their late grandmother

BBC Sort Your Life Out viewers were moved to tears by a heartwarming tribute to a beloved late family member.

Host Stacey Solomon and her dedicated team descended on a family in East Sussex to help transform their bursting-at-the-seams converted bungalow.

The household was headed up by single mum Nadine, who had called the property home since her teenage years, sharing it with her own mother.

Having brought up her four daughters there while also caring for her late mum, three generations of the Jamieson women had amassed mountains of DVDs, clothing and fine China for Stacey to work through.

Buried amongst the clutter, she uncovered 106 animal ornaments, 87 board games and over 1,000 pieces of Nadine’s China, reports Kent Live.

Reflecting on the belongings filling her home and how cluttered it had become, Nadine became emotional as she explained: “I’ve lived in this house since 1988 and it’s pretty much still in the condition it was in 1988.”

Her eldest daughter Merle chipped in: “It was a small crowded house but it wasn’t cluttered back then.”

Former NHS nurse Nadine tearfully continued: “Mum was the second parent. She was our rock and she was just our rock and made it so special for the girls.

“She started to need care in the last four years of her life, and I became full time carer. And that’s when I think it started to change.

“I didn’t have the time or energy to focus on the house because I had to focus on so many people.”

She added: “I need to have a home again and start living again.”

She heartbreakingly went on: “It’s a place I don’t want to be in. There’s no joy to come home to because you know what’s surrounding you.”

After the challenge of letting go of 40 years’ worth of possessions and memories, the family were left touched by a special tribute to Nadine’s mum.

Coming back home after Stacey and her team, including guest star Zoe Sugg, worked their magic, they saw a special memory of Nadine’s mum.

Nadine had earlier explained how her mum’s chair held its place of honour in the living room, with her old combs and hairbands still on it.

Instead of having the objects still there, Stacey, having transformed the living room to a brighter, emptier space, decided to embroider Nadine’s mum’s comb and headband and radio onto a little cushion.

She said: “I know how important Nan’s comb and headband and radio were to you, so instead of having them sat precariously on top of the chair, ready to fall at any minute, I thought, we could put it into the pillow, and then you could always look at her favourite things but keep her actual favourite things safe away.”

“It’s absolutely beautiful,” Nadine’s daughter Merle commented. Breaking down into tears as she saw the cushion, she added: “That is too much.”

“It’s making you emotional,” Stacey replied, as Nadine’s daughter Beth also wiped back tears.

After seeing the response the family had to their new home, Stacey shared: “I think that might have been one of my favourite reactions ever.

“Nadine has, for the last 20-something years, just been looking after everyone around her.

“She’s been raising her kids, looking after her mum, putting all of her energy into everybody else.

“And now finally, she can bring some of that energy back to her, and she just deserves this so much.”

Nadine emotionally added: “Dreams come true.”

Sort Your Life Out is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.