Brookside icon Tinhead is returning to the famous close for a one-off episode twinned with Hollyoaks, and actor Philip Olivier has opened up about the character’s nickname.
Angie Quinn Screen Time Reporter
15:43, 22 Oct 2025
Philip Olivier is returning as Timothy ‘Tinhead’ O’Leary (Image: Lime Pictured)
Brookside legend Tinhead is making a comeback to the renowned close for a special one-off episode alongside Hollyoaks.
Both beloved Channel 4 dramas were created by Grange Hill mastermind Sir Philip Redmond, with Brookside subsequently inspiring the development of Chester-set Hollyoaks.
To celebrate Hollyoaks’ 30th anniversary, the shows are joining forces for a landmark crossover episode, with Philip Olivier returning to his memorable role as Tinhead.
Tim “Tinhead” O’Leary made his debut in 1996 as the offspring of Carmel and Tommy O’Leary, portraying a wayward pupil at Brookside Comprehensive High School.
Throughout his storyline, Tinhead formed an intricate relationship with beloved character Sinbad, portrayed by Michael Starke, who served as a mentor figure for the rebellious youngster, reports the Manchester Evening News.
However, Tinhead was compelled to transform his ways following a devastating incident that nearly claimed his sister Melanie’s life.
His future seemed promising when romance blossomed with Emily, portrayed by Jennifer Ellison, and the couple wed in 2001.
Yet marital happiness wasn’t destined for the pair.
Following further involvement in unlawful activities, Emily perished during a burglary in 2002, leaving Tinhead bereaved at a young age.
Philip Olivier, 45, last appeared as Tinhead in November 2003 when Brookside broadcast its concluding episode.
However, over two decades later, he’s reprising his role as Timothy O’Leary, alongside Suzanne Collins as Nikki Shadwick, for a special Hollyoaks and Brookside episode.
How did Tinhead earn his nickname?
Despite the character’s actual name being Timothy, soap fans will recognise him by his unusual moniker.
Ahead of the rebooted episode, Olivier shed light on how his character acquired the nickname, revealing it was purely coincidental.
The actor shared: “There was a pretty rough school in my area with a really hard kid who everyone knew as Tinhead. This was before I got the part. The name was spray-painted on the side of a building near the school.
“I know a lot of Brookside writers used to live round that area so they must’ve drove past and remembered the name. People thought I’d suggested it but it was a coincidence.”
Olivier also disclosed that he had initially auditioned for a different role in the show before landing the part of the teenage troublemaker.
He elaborated: “Originally, I went up to play the character of Danny Simpson, then ended up playing the kid that bullied him at school.
“I auditioned for Danny then got a call a month later about this character called ‘Tinhead’.”
The Brookside and Hollyoaks crossover episode airs on Wednesday (October 22) at 7pm on E4.
New laws signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom aim to make the artificial intelligence and social media landscape in California safer, especially for minors.
Senate Bill 243, sponsored by state Sen. Steve Padilla (D-Chula Vista) will require AI companies to incorporate guardrails that prevent so-called “companion” chatbots from talking to users of any age about suicide or self-harm. It also requires that all AI systems alert minors using the chatbots that they are not human every three hours. The systems also are barred from promoting any sexually explicit conduct to users who are minors.
The law, to be enacted on Jan. 1, follows several lawsuits filed against developers in which families allege their children committed suicide after being influenced by an AI chatbot companion.
In the same vein, Newsom signed Assembly Bill 316, which removes a civil legal defense that some AI developers have been using to make the case that they are not responsible for any harm caused by their products. They have argued that their AI products act autonomously — and so there is no legal case to blame the developers.
In a bill analysis meant for legislators, Assemblymember Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento) wrote that this change will force developers to vet their product better and ensure that they can be held to account if their product does cause harm to its users.
Another bill, AB 621, increases civil penalties for AI developers who knowingly create nonconsensual “deepfake” AI pornography. The maximum penalties go from $30,000 to $50,000, and from $150,000 to $250,000 in cases where the courts determine that the actions were done with malice.
The author of the bill, Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda), has pointed out how this technology has been used to harm minors. “In one recent instance,” she noted in an analysis supporting the proposed legislation, “five students were expelled from a Beverly Hills Middle School after creating and sharing AI generated nude photos of their classmates.”
Another AI bill, Sen. Scott Wiener’s (D-San Francisco) SB 53, was signed into law by Newsom in late September. It will require large AI companies to publicly disclose certain safety and security protocols and report to the state on critical safety incidents. It also creates a public AI computing cluster — CalCompute — that will provide resources to startups and researchers developing large AI systems.
Bauer-Kahan also was the author of AB 56, which will require social media companies to place a warning label on their platforms for minors starting in 2027. The warning label must tell children and teens that social media is associated with mental health issues and may not be safe.
“People across the nation — including myself — have become increasingly concerned with Big Tech’s failure to protect children who interact with its products. Today, California makes clear that we will not sit and wait for companies to decide to prioritize children’s well-being over their profits,” Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta, who sponsored the bill, said in a news release. “By adding warning labels to social media platforms, AB 56 gives California a new tool to protect our children.”
Other bills recently approved by Newsom look to challenge the Internet’s grip on young people and their mental health.
AB 1043, for example, will require app stores and device manufacturers to take age data from users in order to ensure that they are complying with age verification requirements. Many tech companies, including Google and Meta, approved of the bill, which was written by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland).
AB 772 will require grade K-12 schools in the state to develop a policy by mid-2027 on handling bullying and cyberbullying that happens off campus. “After-school bullying follows the pupil back to school and into the classroom, creating a hostile environment at school,” author and Assembly Speaker Pro Tem Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) wrote in a bill analysis.
Proponents at the Los Angeles County Office of Education wrote in an earlier analysis that because students these days are constantly connected to the internet, bullying does not stop when school lets out. In addition, social media and texting can broadcast instances of bullying to larger audiences than ever before, according to the analysis.
The California School Boards Assn. opposed AB 772, saying that it wasn’t appropriate for school officials to take responsibility for student actions outside of school. Newsom signed the bill last weekend and included it in a larger package of bills meant to protect children from the effects of social media.
“Emerging technology like chatbots and social media can inspire, educate, and connect — but without real guardrails, technology can also exploit, mislead and endanger our kids. We’ve seen some truly horrific and tragic examples of young people harmed by unregulated tech, and we won’t stand by while companies continue without necessary limits and accountability,” Newsom said in a news release Monday. “We can continue to lead in AI and technology, but we must do it responsibly — protecting our children every step of the way. Our children’s safety is not for sale.”
Netflix drama military drama Boots is based on the true story of gay Marine Greg Cope White
13:37, 09 Oct 2025Updated 13:42, 09 Oct 2025
Boots, a military drama on Netflix, follows the journey of gay teenager Cameron Cope (portrayed by Miles Heizer) as he enlists in the Marines corps alongside his best mate, despite the inherent dangers.
The series is set in the harsh environment of the 1990s US Marine Corps, a time when homosexuality was still outlawed in the military. It traces the lives of Cameron and Ray McAffey (played by Liam Oh), the offspring of a decorated Marine, as they become part of a diverse group of recruits.
Together, they form unexpected friendships and discover their true identities while being pushed to their limits.
Netflix commented: “With sharp wit and plenty of heart, Boots is about friendship, resilience, and finding your place in the world – even when that world seems determined to keep you in line or leave you behind.”
Greg Cope White, a former sergeant in the US Marine Corps, served as a writer and executive producer for the series.
He is an ardent advocate for LGBTQ+ and veteran rights, and has appeared in the PBS docuseries American Veteran and published work in the military journal Zero Dark Thirty.
Reflecting on his journey from his days in the Marine Corps, he posted on Instagram: “At 18, I illegally enlisted in the Marine Corps to find my place as a gay man in the masculine world.
“The book honours my lifelong best friend Dale, who got me through a chaotic childhood, and the Marines who took a chance on me and changed my life.
“And to send a message to others who are bullied: Bullies don’t matter. You do. Hold on.”
Greg completed six years of service with the Marines, achieving the rank of Sergeant, before relocating to New York City to pursue studies in acting and writing.
He eventually settled in Los Angeles, where he secured his breakthrough in writing through employment with Norman Lear.
The Pink Marine website details how joining the Marines represented Greg’s initial struggle, as he “has to cheat to pass the physical and then lie on the enlistment papers about his sexuality”.
The protagonists Cameron and Ray draw inspiration from Greg and his closest mate Dale, with the website outlining the dangers they both faced.
It states: “It’s insanely dangerous for both of them. But as fate would have it, the Few and the Proud turn out to be a bunch of oddballs and eccentrics – and a brotherhood is born.”
Stephen Graham was presented with the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for his role in Netflix’s Adolescence.
Hayley Anderson TV Reporter
17:02, 15 Sep 2025Updated 17:15, 15 Sep 2025
Stephen Graham couldn’t help but get emotional during his Emmy acceptance speech as he stated “this kind of thing doesn’t happen to a kid like me”.
Adolescence became an instant global success when it was dropped on Netflix earlier this year, telling the story of a teenage boy accused of fatally stabbing another child.
Graham portrayed Eddie, the father of said teenager Jamie Miller, portrayed by 15-year-old Owen Cooper who has become the youngest male actor to win an Emmy.
When the 52-year-old took to the stage himself to claim his award for Outstanding Lead Actor, he touched upon his past before becoming an actor.
Graham shared: “This kind of thing doesn’t happen to a kid like me. I’m just a mixed race kid from a block of flats in a place called Kirkby.
“So for me, to be here today, in front of my peers and to be acknowledged by you is the utmost humbling thing I could ever imagine in my life, and it shows you that any dream is possible.”
Stephen and Owen Cooper as Eddie and Jamie Miller in Netflix’s Adolescence(Image: NETFLIX)
While Graham was born in Kirby, Lancashire, he has both Jamaican and Swedish heritage on his father’s side.
His biological grandfather was part of the Windrush generation who moved to the UK from Jamaica in the 1960s but died before the actor was born.
Graham previously opened up on experiencing bullying when he was younger, telling Desert Island Discs: “I’m mixed race and that was kind of frowned on in those days.
“There were times growing up when I was slightly unsure where I fitted in. That n-word popped up when I was younger.”
Emmy Award winning stars Stephen, Owen and Erin Doherty who received their accolades for Netflix’s Adolescence(Image: GETTY)
Graham also spoke about how it was his step-father Mike Fazakerley, who he affectionately calls Pops, helped him through this difficult time.
He added: “He [Mike] helped me see who I am and what I am is good enough.
“He helped me find my own way and I got that sense of self in many respects from my mother, finding your own way.”
Adolescence proved to be the overall winners of the night at the Emmy this weekend with the show taking home six awards.
This included accolades for both Graham and Cooper’s performances, as well as for Limited or Anthology series, and Outstanding Supporting Actress for Erin Doherty.
‘Relieved’ BBC Breakfast editor Richard Frediani has reportedly been ‘cleared’ after a review into his behaviour and will be continuing his duties
08:08, 09 Sep 2025Updated 08:08, 09 Sep 2025
‘Relieved’ BBC Breakfast editor ‘cleared after review’ into behaviour(Image: BBC)
BBC Breakfast’s editor, Richard Frediani, has reportedly been ‘cleared’ of bad behaviour by bosses amid a ‘feud’ with presenter Naga Munchetty. During the summer, it was claimed that show boss Richard went on extended leave on the flagship show after complaints about his behaviour.
One source told the Mirror: “He is not a bully at all and the truth will come out. He’s a great boss and was – and is still – overwhelmingly loved by the team, who respect his drive, expertise, and journalistic ambition. He has delivered great audiences and the first ever Bafta for breakfast TV.
Richard Frediani was reportedly cleared(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/James Stack)
“He can be brash and opinionated but works so hard for his team and allows people to flourish.”
Three months on, it was reported that the BBC conducted an interview review of the bullying allegations, with the broadcaster conducting 70 sessions and a ‘listening exercise’ with staff.
Richard, who is said to be ‘relieved’ with the outcome, reportedly told staff he was in the clear and would be continuing with his duties as editor.
Naga and Charlie are reportedly ‘furious’ with the outcome(Image: BBC)
“He’s in a significantly more secure place than he was. And I think he’s had a lot of support from people on the team who have come out and said he’s a great editor,” a support told The Times.
“Not everyone on the team because there are divided loyalties, but he is in a much better place.”
A spokesperson for the BBC told the Mirror: “While we do not comment on individual HR matters, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously.”
A source claimed Naga and co-host Charlie Stayt were ‘furious’ about Richard being ‘cleared’ to return to his duties.
“Naga and Charlie are furious and feel like the BBC have backed him over them,” they told The Sun. “No one would be surprised if they ended up leaving.”
In July, an insider told the publication that Naga was looking for a new job. While the presenter ‘loves the BBC’, her team reportedly ‘renewed talks’ with other companies.
They said: “Her team last week renewed talks with LBC. The Global Radio station would suit her as there’s far less of the fluffy nonsense that’s involved in working at the BBC.”
Meanwhile, the BBC’s annual salary was previously published and Naga was revealed to be earning almost double her co-host Charlie’s pay.
Charlie has stayed within the £190,000 salary band, whereas Naga enjoyed a £10,000 increase to her earnings, moving from £345,000 to £355,000.
The Mirror have reached out to the BBC and the representatives of Charlie and Naga for comment.
China’s top diplomat tells Brazil’s FM Mauro Vieira that Beijing-Brazil ties are at their ‘best in history’.
Published On 29 Aug 202529 Aug 2025
China is willing to strengthen coordination with Brazil to “resist unilateralism and bullying”, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has told his Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira.
Wang made the pledge to Vieira in a phone call, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Friday, as the government of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva considers retaliatory trade measures against the United States over President Donald Trump’s imposition of 50 percent tariffs on a range of Brazilian goods.
During the phone call, Wang told Vieira that the China-Brazil relationship “is at its best in history”, China’s state-run Global Times reported, quoting Wang.
Noting that the current international situation “is undergoing complex changes”, Wang also pledged China’s willingness to join hands with the BRICS trading block, to protect “the legitimate rights and interests” of developing countries.
BRICS, which includes emerging economies such as Brazil, is a China-led political and economic grouping that is seen as a counter to the Western-led APEC and G7 groups.
Beijing’s offer comes amid indications that Brazil is considering a coordinated response with China and India against punitive US trade measures.
According to Global Times, Wang also recalled Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Lula’s phone call two weeks ago in which the two leaders “forged solid mutual trust and friendship” in the building of a China-Brazil community “with a shared future”.
In May, Lula also travelled to China for a five-day state visit.
Beijing has worked in recent years to court Latin America as a way of countering Washington, which is historically the most influential major power in the South American region.
But China has surpassed the US as Brazil’s largest trading partner, and two-thirds of Latin American countries have also signed up to Xi’s Belt and Road infrastructure drive.
Brazil exports large quantities of soya beans to China, which, as the world’s largest consumer of the ingredient, relies heavily on imports for its supply.
Relations between the US and Brazil have been icy since Trump imposed a 50 percent tariff on Brazilian coffee and other goods, which took effect on August 6.
While Trump’s trade war has chiefly targeted countries that run a large trade surplus with the US, Brazil imports from the US far outweigh its exports, and Washington had a trade surplus of $28.6bn in goods and services with Brazil in 2024.
Trump has explained his economic hostility towards Brazil in terms of retribution for a so-called domestic legal “witch-hunt” against Brazil’s former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, who is on trial for coup plotting.
Trump has called for charges against Bolsonaro – who he considers an ally – to be dropped and has imposed sanctions on Brazil’s Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes for overseeing the case against the former leader.
In recent days, Brazil has also complained after the US revoked the visa of Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski.
PRINCE Harry is considering starting a new humanitarian charity.
It comes after the Duke of Sussex stepped down as patron of Sentebale, the African charity he co-founded, after a bullying row.
Yesterday, Harry’s spokesman said: “The duke remains committed to continuing his support for the children and young people of Lesotho and Botswana — work he started nearly 20 years ago.
“In what form that support takes, no decisions have been made.
“All options remain on the table, whether that be starting a new charity or working to support pre-existing charities.”
Sentebale works in southern Africa supporting young people, especially those with HIV and Aids.
But Harry stood aside in March amid bullying claims by the board chairwoman.
Sentebale said in a statement: “The Charity Commission is explicitly clear, including in its public guidance, that it is not the commission’s responsibility to adjudicate or mediate internal disputes.
“This would include individual allegations of bullying, harassment, misogyny, misogynoir etc.
“As a result, the commission has not investigated any individual allegations and therefore has not made any findings in relation to individuals, including Prince Harry.
“The issues not investigated by the commission can and may be dealt with through avenues more appropriate than the commission.”
Harry’s succumbed to a clash of egos – leaving Sentebale is a waste of Diana’s legacy
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Prince Harry is considering starting a new humanitarian charityCredit: Getty
NAGA Munchetty “went ballistic” at intern for getting her porridge wrong insiders claim as the host is hit by a bullying probe.
The insider previously worked with Naga, 50, on BBC Breakfast and revealed the host is an “absolute nightmare” and would “kick off about the smallest of issues”.
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Naga Munchetty “went ballistic” at an intern for getting her porridge wrong, insiders claimCredit: BBC
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It comes as the BBC is set to launch an investigation into Munchetty following a string of complaints.Credit: Getty
A source has claimed that under-fire BBC presenter Naga Munchetty has a reputation for going “ballistic” at junior staff.
They also revealed that she humiliated an intern who didn’t make her porridge perfectly.
An insider told the Mail: “She has a reputation for going at young members of staff and making them out to be fools.
“She would kick off about the smallest of issues, including one time she went ballistic over her breakfast not being prepared exactly how she likes it by an intern.”
This included the occasion where Munchetty refused to eat porridge delivered to her by an intern during an ad break as it was too hot for her to eat in the time she had.
“The guy walked off the set utterly humiliated and went back to chuck it away before trying again in time for the next ad break, it was pretty brutal to watch,” the insider added.
A BBC spokesperson said: “While we do not comment on individual cases, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously and will not tolerate behaviour that is not in line with our values.
“We have robust processes in place and would encourage any staff with concerns to raise them directly with us so they can be addressed.”
She had also been hauled in by bosses over allegations she made an off-air sex jibe at 5 Live.
The source said: “Following the amount of people who have come forward to share their experiences with Naga, the BBC has officially moved to place the complaints under review.
“The review is to ascertain whether a full-on investigation is required and that could come in weeks.”
Munchetty began work on BBC Breakfast in 2014 and covers Thursday to Saturday alongside Stayt, as well as presenting a Radio 5 programme three times a week.
She is the BBC’s 10th highest earner, on around £355,000.
LOVE Island fans have been left fuming over one hunk’s alleged “bullying” behaviour in the Mallorca villa.
Viewers of the ITV2 series – which will wrap its summer season next week – have flooded social media with messages of concern about his supposed “harassment” and insisted they will contact the broadcasting watchdog.
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Love Island viewers have been left fuming at Blu Chegini’s behaviourCredit: Eroteme
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They have suggested he is ‘bullying’ US bombshell Toni LaitesCredit: Eroteme
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Others claimed Blu is ‘obsessed’ with Toni and have complained to OfcomCredit: Eroteme
Returning Love Island star Blu Chegini was axed from the matchmaking show earlier in the series, yet made a recent unexpected return alongside Megan Forte Clarke.
Yet while The Sun exclusively revealed how the Irish lass had broken an unwritten show rule and discussed her time outside the show compound, Blu has been getting fans’ backs up.
The star, partnered in a friendship couple with Helena, has beenaccused of being “furniture”after being pied three times on his show return.
Yet now viewer complaints have escalated to his supposed “bullying” of Toni – a claim reinforced by her mother on TikTok – and as such, they have told how they are contacting Ofcom with their worries.
It came after a particularly “bitter and sarky” scene featuring the pair, which led one fan to post on X: “I’m sorry Blu is a bully! @Ofcom will be hearing from me.”
A second quizzed: “Why is Blu in the villa???????” as a third put: “I’m reporting Blu and Meg to Ofcom for harassment. Toni wanted nothing to do with it yet they’re literally trying to force a reaction out of her for no f**king reason.”
Another urged: “Can people complain to Ofcom about Blu and Meg’s behaviour then?”
One posted: “I can’t believe it. I want to make A OFCOM COMPLAINT.”
Another concluded: “Love island why did you bring Blu back and allow him to talk to women they way is he?? HELLO????”
Before entering the villa, ITV’s Duty of Care protocol outlines training for Islanders in language, behaviour and understanding mutual respect in relationships.
Love Island feud ERUPTS as two Islanders storm off from eachother after bitter clash
Programme contributors will be offered a full package of measures to ensure they remain supported prior to, during and after the filming period on the show.
A welfare team is also solely dedicated to the Islanders both during the show and after.
The Sun has gone to Love Island for comment.
BLU BLUES
The original villa lad was ashock returnee bombshelllast week, when he reappeared with co-star Megan.
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During one part of the challenge, Blu turned his board around and told the group: “This is directed at Toni really, because I’ve tried to give her my honest opinion and she didn’t take it.
“I’m not scared, I’ve tried and… Toni.”
As the Islanders burst into laughter, Toni shot back: “I still don’t care unfortunately. Sorry Blu.
“I don’t have it in me anymore.”
Blu replied: “That’s cool, I’m glad you don’t care,” as the awkward moment between them came to an end.
We told how this year’s Love Island cohort will make a second entrance into the Mallorca villa.
A source told us the scenes will air on ITV2 soon and said: “The entire cast will be returning to the villa this week – just like the ‘jury’ in All Stars earlier this year.
“They’ll come face to face with the stars who dumped them, and in some cases, have slagged them off live on TV!”
Our source added of the current show twist: “It’ll be explosive and must watch TV – during All Stars Liv Hawkins spilled a secret that changed the outcome of the entire show so the cast will be VERY nervous when they realise what is about to happen!”
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Blu and Toni clashed in another challenge last nightCredit: Eroteme
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The show OG returned to the villa after being evictedCredit: Eroteme
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One fan quizzed ‘why is Blu in the villa?’Credit: Eroteme
BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty is reportedly in talks to join another station amid the programme’s bullying row
22:07, 16 Jul 2025Updated 22:07, 16 Jul 2025
Naga Munchetty ‘renews talks’ for new job amid BBC Breakfast bullying row(Image: BBC)
BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty has reportedly ‘renewed talks’ with a radio station away from the corporation amid a bullying row that has plagued the morning programme. Last month, it was revealed show boss Richard Frediani was on extended leave on the flagship show after complaints about his behaviour.
Munchetty is reportedly in talks for another job(Image: BBC)
Speaking to The Sun, they said: “Her team last week renewed talks with LBC. The Global Radio station would suit her as there’s far less of the fluffy nonsense that’s involved in working at the BBC.” The Mirror have reached out to Munchetty’s reps for comment.
Meanwhile, the BBC’s annual salary was recently published and Munchetty was revealed to be earning almost double her co-host Charlie Stayt’s pay.
Stayt and Munchetty present BBC Breakfast from Thursday to Saturday morning, while Jon Kay and Sally Nugent take the helm from Monday to Wednesday.
It comes as the BBC salaries were released (Image: BBC)
Stayt, aged 63, has stayed within the £190,000 salary band, whereas Munchetty, aged 50, has enjoyed a £10,000 increase to her earnings, moving from £345,000 to £355,000.
Munchetty, who has presented on the flagship news programme since 2014, has always been paid more than Stayt. Her pay packet accounts for 180 days of presenting on BBC Breakfast, as well as her Radio 5 Live programme and election coverage.
The BBC pay comes amid a bullying row concerning the BBC Breakfast editor. Some current and former staff of the programme jumped to his defence.
One source told the Mirror: “He is not a bully at all and the truth will come out. He’s a great boss and was – and is still – overwhelmingly loved by the team, who respect his drive, expertise, and journalistic ambition. He has delivered great audiences and the first ever Bafta for breakfast TV.
“He can be brash and opinionated but works so hard for his team and allows people to flourish.”
A second source said: “Yes, he is old-school and can rub people up the wrong way but it’s always in the pursuit of great television. It’s the best-rating breakfast show in the country – it’s not supposed to be a walk in the park. Some – Naga included – need to understand this. It feels like it’s a case of presenter power turfing out a brilliant journalist.”
Co-host Stayt is also said to have a strained relationship with Frediani.
MasterChef’s Gregg Wallace was reportedly rushed to hospital for a suspected heart attack, just days before the TV presenter faced fresh misconduct accusations from 50 people
23:09, 08 Jul 2025Updated 23:18, 08 Jul 2025
A close friend of Gregg Wallace has said that he’s ‘in a bad way’ after being accused of misconduct by 50 more people(Image: BBC)
Shamed MasterChef host Gregg Wallace has been sacked after 50 more people complained about him – but he has vowed to fight back. The 60-year-old accused BBC News of “peddling gossip” after it claimed to have received dozens of new complaints about him, ranging from sexual comments to groping. Wallace accepts his humour was “inappropriate” on the show. And a source close to him admits a social media video in which he lashed out at “middle-class women of a certain age” was a sackable offence.
But he still believes himself to be a victim and called the new claims “baseless and sensationalised”. He insisted: “I will not go quietly. I will not be cancelled for convenience.”
Gregg Wallace has been accused of misconduct by 50 more people(Image: BBC /Shine TV)
It comes just days after the TV presenter was reportedly rushed to hospital with a suspected heart attack. The 60-year-old was treated at a hospital in Ashford, Kent, after two days of agonising chest pain. A friend told The Sun: “The stress of this betrayal brought on my suspected heart attack. It’s been hell.” It is reported that two days after leaving hospital, Wallace was told that his contract would be terminated.
MasterChef production company Banijay is expected to release the findings of a six-month review into his behaviour tomorrow or on Friday. The review, by law firm Lewis Silkin, was ordered after allegations of inappropriate sexual behaviour on the set of the BBC cooking show were made against Wallace last year. His lawyers said then: “It is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature.”
A Banijay insider said many of the BBC’s latest allegations are likely to have already been examined during the review. One source who has read the 200-page report said Wallace’s worst mistake was his December 2024 video about the initial allegations, in which he said: “The complaints [are] from a handful of middle-class women of a certain age.” The source added that alone was a “dismissible offence”.
Yesterday, the presenter posted a five-page statement on social media. Wallace said: “I recognise my humour and language, at times, was inappropriate. For that, I apologise.
Gregg Wallace has been axed from MasterChef(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
“I have now been cleared by the Silkin report of the most serious and sensational accusations. The most damaging claims, including allegations from public figures which have not been upheld, were found to be baseless after a full and forensic six-month investigation.”
The presenter said he had taken the decision to speak out ahead of the publication of the Silkin report because: “I cannot sit in silence while my reputation is further damaged.”
Wallace claimed the new BBC News allegations included “legally unsafe accusations” which had been “found not credible by Silkin”.
He said allowing the stories to run ahead of the report was an attempt to derail the process. And in response to claims that the BBC had “fired” him, a spokesman said that this was impossible, because it was not his employer. Wallace, whose young son Sid has autism, argued that he should have been better looked after.
He added: “I was hired by the BBC and MasterChef as the cheeky greengrocer. A real person with warmth, character, rough edges and all. For over two decades, that authenticity was part of the brand.
“Now, in a sanitised world, that same personality is seen as a problem. My neurodiversity, now formally diagnosed as autism, was suspected and discussed by colleagues across countless seasons of MasterChef.
“Yet nothing was done to investigate my disability or protect me from what I now realise was a dangerous environment for over 20 years. That failure is now being quietly buried.”
He added: “I was tried by media and hung out to dry before the facts were established. The full story of this incredible injustice must be told.”
A source close to Wallace insisted he had been made the fall guy. They added: “This is about protecting a format, one of the most valuable formats that Banijay and the BBC has. And what they should be doing is having a clean start and not just chucking one bloke under the bus. Gregg has employed a lawyer and he’s going for blood. The report talks about him being odd – the guy has got autism and it was never addressed. It’s been a trial by social media and a big pile-on.
“All these things, when they’re looked at by a lawyer, are not true. Bullying Penny Lancaster? Not true. Vanessa Feltz? No evidence. It’s about him having a terrible sense of humour and telling rude jokes.”
The pal said that dad-of-three Wallace was “in a bad way”, warning: “This guy is fragile. When everything has been taken away like this, it’s quite overwhelming.”
One MasterChef insider said that no conversation over Wallace’s future employment had yet taken place. The latest allegations include two women who said Wallace exposed himself to them, a student who says he put his hand up her skirt in 2013 and another woman who claims he groped her the previous year.
It is not clear how many of the 50 allegations have been examined by the review lawyers, who looked only at allegations relating to MasterChef. The BBC said: “We are not going to comment until the investigation is complete and the findings published.”
Home and Away actor Tristan Bancks is best known for his role as Tug O’Neale on the popular Australian soap and, since leaving the show, has landed a string of impressive roles
Tristan found himself at the heart of numerous high-profile storylines
From its debut in 1989, Home and Away became a must-watch for soap fans With its gripping plotlines and the beautiful backdrop of Summer Bay, it’s no wonder audiences continue to enjoy the Aussie soap after more than three decades. Over its impressive 36-year run, Home and Away has seen a host of stars grace its screens, including Tristan Bancks, who played the character Tug O’Neale. From 1992 to 1994, Tristan was a regular fixture on the soap, having been chosen from among 200 hopefuls for the role.
As Tug, Tristan found himself at the heart of numerous high-profile storylines, tackling issues such as mental health and bullying. However, after two years, he decided to step away from the show to explore new opportunities. After leaving Home and Away, Tristan, now 50, relocated to London for a short time where he secured several presenting roles, including hosting the game show Don’t Try This At Home.
Tristan was friends with Dieter Brummer, who played Shane on Home and Away(Image: Twitter/@tristanbancks)
Upon his return to Australia, Tristan resumed his acting career, with roles in the short film Dust and the 2002 feature Beneath Clouds. He has also ventured into directing, with his short comedy Soar being showcased at both the London Film Festival and Melbourne International Film Festival, reports OK!.
Tristan seemingly remains ever-youthful, and has carved out a successful career as an award-winning author, penning popular children’s and young adult books such as Two Wolves, The Fall, and Detention. His latest work, Scar Town, hit the shelves recently, with Tristan attending a flurry of book launch events.
Tristan doesn’t seem to have aged a day
With over 5,000 followers on Instagram, the ex-soap star frequently offers glimpses into his life as a writer, sharing moments from writing retreats, literary talks, and book festivals.
Beyond his professional achievements, Tristan enjoys a private life with his partner, editorial and wedding photographer Amber Melody. The couple are proud parents to two sons and although he keeps much of his personal life under wraps, Tristan occasionally shares heartfelt posts about his family on Instagram.
He posed with one of his sons for a picture on Instagram in September last year, saying: “First Father’s Day with my eldest son living away in Melbourne. Missed him a lot but he’s doing great things. And I did get to have lunch with my youngest son and his girlfriend and my mum and her husband. And my beautiful wife who I’ve been lucky enough to bring up our two fine boys with. Also, Lego!”
And one Valentine’s Day, he shared an affectionate post for Amber, referring to her as the “love of my life”.
His Instagram caption read: “Happy V Day to the love of my life, Amber Melody. [man and woman in love emoji] Great start to the day with brownie pain au chocolate and croissant French toast (breakfast of champions) at @bambam_bakehouse. :).”
The author happily posed with one of his lookalike sons(Image: Tristanbancksbooks/Instagram)
In another heartwarming post, Tristan uploaded a photo with his sons during a magical trip to Disneyland Paris, expressing that travelling with his family is his “favourite thing to do.”
His books have won and been shortlisted for many awards, including a Children’s Book Council of Australia Honour Book, the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards, and the YABBA children’s choice book awards. Scar Town was named the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Book of the Year for Younger Readers.
But his talents don’t stop there, as Tristan’s website reports that “he is currently working with producers to develop a number of his books for the stage and screen.”
VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV urged the warring sides in the Israel-Iran war to “reject the logic of bullying and revenge” and choose a path of dialogue and diplomacy to reach peace as he expressed solidarity with all Christians in the Middle East.
Speaking at his weekly Wednesday general audience, the American pope said he was following “with attention and hope” recent developments in the war. He cited the biblical exhortation: “A nation shall not raise the sword against another nation.”
A ceasefire is holding in the 12-day Iran-Israel conflict, which involved Israel targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites and the U.S. intervening by dropping bunker-buster bombs on Iranian nuclear sites. Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful.
“Let us listen to this voice that comes from on High,” Leo said. “Heal the lacerations caused by the bloody actions of recent days, reject all logic of bullying and revenge, and resolutely take the path of dialogue, diplomacy and peace.”
The Chicago-born Leo also expressed solidarity with the victims of Sunday’s attack on a Greek Orthodox church in Damascus, Syria, and urged the international community to keep supporting Syrian reconciliation. Syria’s Interior Ministry has said a sleeper cell belonging to the Islamic State group was behind the attack at the Church of the Holy Cross, which killed at least 25 people.
“To the Christians in the Middle East, I am near you. All the church is close to you,” he said. “This tragic event is a reminder of the profound fragility that still marks Syria after years of conflict and instability, and therefore it is crucial that the international community doesn’t look away from this country, but continues to offer it support through gestures of solidarity and with a renewed commitment to peace and reconciliation.”
Iran’s president says his nation will not be intimidated by threats as Trump accuses Tehran of carrying out proxy wars.
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said his country would not “bow to any bully” in response to United States President Donald Trump’s criticism of Tehran during his ongoing three-day Gulf tour.
“He [Trump] thinks he can come here, chant slogans, and scare us. For us, martyrdom is far sweeter than dying in bed. You came to frighten us? We will not bow to any bully,” he said on Wednesday in comments broadcast live on state TV.
Earlier in the day, during the GCC summit in Riyadh, Trump said that while he wanted to make a deal with Iran, the country “must stop sponsoring terror, halt its bloody proxy wars, and permanently and verifiably cease its pursuit of nuclear weapons”.
Washington and Tehran have held four meetings that were mediated by Oman to help reach a deal over the latter’s nuclear programme.
While attending a state dinner in the Qatari capital in Doha on Wednesday, Trump repeated his publicly stated desire for a peaceful resolution to Iran’s nuclear programme and suggested the ball is in Tehran’s court.
“It’s a perilous situation, and we want to do the right thing,” Trump said. “We want to do something that’s going to save maybe millions of lives. Because things like that get started, and they get out of control.”
On Tuesday, Trump said that he wanted “to make a deal with Iran”, but “if Iran’s leadership rejects this olive branch … we will have no choice but to inflict massive maximum pressure”. He added that he would not allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon.
Successive US administrations have sought to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. A sustained effort by world powers during the Barack Obama administration culminated in a 2015 agreement called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
But when Trump succeeded Obama as US president, he unilaterally withdrew the US from the nuclear agreement in 2018, causing the deal to crumble.
Despite ongoing talks, the Trump administration has continued to impose sanctions on Iran.
On Wednesday, the US issued sanctions targeting Iran for efforts to domestically manufacture components for ballistic missiles, the US Department of the Treasury said.
The sanctions target six individuals and 12 entities for what the Treasury Department said was “their involvement in efforts to help the Iranian regime domestically source the manufacturing of critical materials needed for Tehran’s ballistic missile program”.
