Channel 4

Channel 4 star forced to make tough choice following fan backlash

Secret Lives of Gypsy Wives star Trewley-Precious was left facing a huge dilemma in the series finale after being offered a six-figure deal

Trewley-Precious was forced to turn down a six-figure deal after facing a huge dilemma.

The Channel 4 star was faced with an agonising decision after being offered a huge amount of money to work with a weight-loss brand.

She was left torn between a potentially life-changing sum of money and staying true to the values she has built her public image around.

The emotional dilemma unfolded during the final episode of her reality series Secret Lives of Gypsy Wives as Trewley was approached with the opportunity to work with a major weight-loss company associated with injectable weight-loss treatments.

However, despite the huge financial incentive, Trewley admitted she was uncomfortable with the idea of promoting something she did not personally believe in.

Her manager Andrea explained that the company was a “big brand” which was already working with well-known celebrity names and said the proposed partnership could involve a “transformation process” for anyone considering weight-loss injections.

“There is potentially a lot of money involved in this kind of partnership,” her manager told her. Trewley immediately questioned whether the deal fitted with the image she had created for herself.

“First of all, I just don’t think it’d fit my brand. That’s not who I am,” she said. “If I lose weight, I’ll go to the gym. I wouldn’t get on there for my other drugs, so why would I feel like that? You’re talking about payment, what’s the payment?”

The answer left her stunned. Her manager revealed that the deal could be worth six figures over the course of a year. “What the f***? That’s real?” Trewley exclaimed. Her manager confirmed that it was.

But even with the staggering figure on the table, Trewley knew accepting the deal could come at a cost. “I can’t sell my soul out,” she said.

Her manager reminded her that she was trying to build a long-term career and that she needed to think carefully about the brands she associated herself with.

“I think in this industry, you have to be so mindful of who your audience is,” her manager told her. “And your audience are young women.”

For Trewley, however, the decision was not simply about money. She admitted that part of her was thinking about what the money could do for her family, particularly her mum. “There’s part of me, family wise, that’s like, I can support, I can provide,” she explained.

But she also knew that accepting the deal could mean compromising the message she had been putting out to her followers.

Speaking directly to the camera, Trewley admitted she felt trapped whichever decision she made. “If I take it, I always represent these curvy women and this and that, so it’s just going against what I stand for,” she said. “But then I also have… I’ve got to think about my mum and my family. I’ve got to provide.”

She added: “It’s just disheartening. I feel stupid either way. I feel stupid if I take it, and I feel stupid if I don’t.”

Unable to make the decision alone, Trewley decided to call her mum, Tina, for advice. She explained that she had been offered a controversial brand deal and revealed just how much money was involved. But Tina’s response was immediate. She told her daughter not to take it.

Even when Trewley explained that the deal was worth a huge amount of money, her mum remained firm. Tina questioned whether any amount of money was worth putting her health at risk.

The conversation became an emotional moment for Trewley, who broke down as she considered what turning down the opportunity could mean. The money could have changed their lives. But ultimately, her mum’s advice helped Trewley make her decision.

Trewley revealed that she would turn down the deal, making it clear that no amount of money was going to make her compromise her beliefs.

“My goal in life is to provide for my family and earn money off what I’m doing,” she explained. “But I’m not compromising. I’m not being bought for something I don’t believe in. I don’t care how much it is, I’m not doing it.”

The decision comes as Trewley continues to navigate life in the public eye. Her growing presence on social media and the way she presents herself has not always been welcomed by everyone within the Traveller community, with Trewley facing backlash over her move into the world of influencing and television.

For Trewley, that criticism has highlighted a much bigger question about her future. She has grown up with a traditional Traveller lifestyle, but is now building a public career that brings opportunities far beyond the life she knew growing up.

You can stream Secret Lives of Gypsy Wives on Channel 4

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‘Gutted’ Celebrity Hunted stars forced to leave Channel 4 series immediately

The Channel 4 challenge has said goodbye to two more celebrities

Two ‘gutted’ Celebrity Hunted stars have been forced to leave the hit show.

A new season of the Channel 4 programme is well underway, challenging a fresh group of stars to go on the run and hide from expert hunters.

The team of hunters is led by Ray Howard and they have a mixture of police and military backgrounds at their disposal. Ray’s agents are also allowed to use everything from CCTV to helicopters in their hunt for the famous faces.

Several contestants have already been captured, including stand-up comedian Jen Brister and actor Laura Smyth, as well as Love Island duo Chris Taylor and Toby Aromolaran.

And the hunters added two more victims to their list just minutes into Monday’s (August 24) episode. They caught disability advocates JJ Chalmers and Sophie Morgan following a heated car chase.

The duo originally tried to evade the hunters by driving away, but they eventually accepted defeat. Following their capture, Sophie admitted that she was “sad” but still spoke highly of her experience.

Sophie said: “I’m gutted we got caught. We did really well and we just slipped up at the end. Not because of our disabilities.

“If anything, I think it aided us at times. I think it’s been a really lovely experience to just feel [like] disability doesn’t always get in the way.”

JJ also reflected on the challenge fondly, adding: “What I take away from this, more than anything, will just be the kindness of strangers. If you ever doubted that there was goodness in the world, there is more good in this place than there is bad.”

But viewers at home have been left divided by the pair’s eviction.

Some felt they gave up too easily, with one X user posting: “Why didn’t JJ Chalmers and Sophie Morgan just lock the car doors and stay inside the car when the hunter reached the car door? They could have avoided capture yet. #CelebrityHunted.”

Meanwhile, others praised their decision to forfeit: “Sensible decision by JJ and Sophie. They weren’t going to win in a car chase. Well played though. Lovely people. #Hunted #CelebrityHunted.”

Following the latest capture, there are five fugitives still at large including father-daughter duo Brian and Lucy Conley, Strictly’s Amy Dowden MBE and Carlos Gu, as well as lone wolf Scarlette Douglas.

Celebrity Hunted is available to stream on Channel 4.

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‘Disturbing’ serial killer documentary leaves viewers ‘really sad’

Viewers couldn’t look away from their screens

A chilling documentary about one of the world’s most infamous serial killers is streaming now.

Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial Killer was originally released in 2003 and it is still captivating viewers over 20 years on. The film dives into American murderer Aileen Wuornos’ crimes and trial, which ended in her execution in 2002.

A synopsis teases: “British documentarian Nick Broomfield creates a follow-up piece to his 1992 documentary of the serial killer Aileen Wuornos, a highway prostitute who was convicted of killing six men in Florida between 1989 and 1990.

“Interviewing an increasingly mentally unstable Wuornos, Broomfield captures the distorted mind of a murderer whom the state of Florida deems of sound mind — and therefore fit to execute. Throughout the film, Broomfield includes footage of his testimony at Wuornos’ trial.”

The documentary is now available to watch on Channel 4, along with the director’s original 1992 film, Aileen Wuornos: The Selling of a Serial Killer. Those without access to Channel 4 can alternatively stream the movie on STV Player.

Both critics and casual viewers have shared glowing reviews of the film, with Rotten Tomatoes pundits giving it an impressive 85% score.

But fans have confessed they were deeply disturbed by Wuornos’ dark story and execution. One person posted: “Very bizarre and quite chilling documentary. It affected me and disturbed me in equal measure.”

Someone else agreed: “Ultimately this is a sad documentation of one woman’s mental demise on death row and one can’t help but feel empathetic towards Aileen and what her life amounted to.”

A third viewer added: “A deeply disturbing documentary of the iconic serial killer Aileen Wuornos from the most acclaimed documentary film maker in the U.K, Nic Broomfield. The documentary goes much deeper, much further than anybody could have anticipated.”

Yet another fan chimed in: “Chilling really sad story. This is one of those films that make you question your own humanity.”

Others were completely captivated by the film, with one sharing: “Really fantastic I did not regret watching it,” and another adding: “I was completely glued to the screen watching this documentary.”

Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial Killer is available to stream on Channel 4 and STV Player.

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Four in a Bed star speechless over guest’s ‘rude’ comment about size

The B&B owners faced a fiery clash as tensions mounted on payment day and one guest commented on another’s appearance.

Guests on Four in a Bed faced a fiery clash after comments were made about one contestant’s appearance.

The Channel 4 programme returned with a series of repeat episodes on Saturday, August 22, which saw tensions rise between Lancashire couple, Stu and Ali, and their competitors.

On payment day, The Dog Inn owners discovered they’d been underpaid by a total of £27.90, after hearing feedback about dirty dishcloths and a lack of a hairdryer.

“It didn’t surprise us, but still, it is upsetting when you get underpaid,” Stu admitted at one point, while their competitors maintained that the standards of cleanliness they discovered were “unacceptable”.

Things took a turn for the worse however when Stu and Ali faced their turn to deliver feedback, reports Lancs Live. Earlier in the week of filming, they’d stayed at Julie and Sarah’s property in the Lake District, Ullswater View.

And while other guests were impressed, Stu and Ali weren’t too happy. In the property, they discovered a bath robe didn’t fit Stu, as he quipped at the time: “One size does not fit all.”

And they had another complaint over the bedding, claiming the single beds put together to form a double were “useless”. “It’s just wrong, isn’t it?” Stu said, as Ali claimed “it took away the romance and intimacy”.

Reading their complaints, Julie and Sarah had fumed: “Stu and Ali’s comments were really stupid, and a bit of an insult.”

They then clashed with the Lancashire couple over the dressing gown situation, as Stu explained: “It’s super nice that you provide that for people, but it is just large, XL, so if you do get fat people like me coming in, you don’t provide for them. So I had to put both of them on to cover myself. So if your guests are of a larger size, maybe you say, would you like me to replace the dressing gown?”

Julie at first replied: “To be fair, we don’t get a lot of big people because it is very outdoorsy,” before Stu said: “Big people can walk outdoors.”

“Well they don’t tend to walk up fells,” Julie hit back, leaving Ali and Stu speechless. She went on: “I think you’re then pointing it out, and if somebody is sensitive to the fact that they’re big, I think they might be offended.”

Ali said: “You just said fat people can’t go up hills.” As Julie claimed the dressing gowns are one size, Stu said: “But everybody isn’t are they? Enough said.”

“It could have got quite heated,” Julie later admitted, while Ali told cameras: “To say that normally people of a larger size don’t come here because there’s walking…” Stu added: “Bit rude, wasn’t it?”

Four in a Bed is available to watch on Channel 4.

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Parks and Recreation fans only just learning real reason behind odd character names

The show’s co-creator says it turned out to be one of his ‘great joys’ in life

The beloved show’s creator shared there are two main reasons behind the decisions.

Fans of Parks and Recreation are still discovering some behind the scenes secrets. This includes the reason behind some of the names used for both key characters on the show, as well as some who only appear briefly in an episode.

For those unaware, the series follows the parks department in the fictional Indiana town of Pawnee. They are lead by the overly enthusiastic Leslie Knope, who rallies her colleagues and friends to do the best for their community, including their attempts at creating a new park.

Co-created by former writers of The Office, Mikes Schur and Dan Goor it is described by some fans as one of the best comedy series ever made. Despite it being more than 10 years since it finished airing, its dedicated fan base are still learning secrets of the show.

Schur appeared on Amy Poehler’s podcast Good Hang where he revealed some of his own. At one point during their conversation, Amy notes that Schur enjoyed coming up with character and names. He even had a long list of alternate choices for her role of Leslie Knope.

Asked why he put so much thought into names of every character, he explained it was for two reasons. One was that he was heavily inspired by Monthy Python, who would often utilise silly names in their sketches.

He decided that the fictional town of Pawnee would also be a place that contains almost limitless people who happen to have ridiculous sounding names.

However, he also explained another meaningful reason. He said: “The actual thing that’s going on here is different. I would go to actors’ IMDb pages to see what they had been in when we were casting them in the early days of the show and you would see like woman number two or like man in crowd or guy with sandwich and it really bummed me out.

“Because I love actors. I love them so much. I think that they have the hardest job when it comes to making a show. It is so hard. Anyone who doesn’t believe this should try it, by the way. Try acting.”

Schur continued: “That person auditioned for this and booked this gig and drove all the way cross town and like put on fake clothes and put on makeup and whatever and had to stand in a certain place, follow a million instructions, say a line or two, and then they yelled cut and that person went home and they got paid like $600 for like a week’s worth of work.

“They should be something better than man number two or man and crowd. So I decided early in season one of Parks that every character who appeared on the show was going to have a first and last name. So instead of man in crowd, you’re like, ‘Oh, well that it doesn’t really count as an acting gig’. But if you see Marv Vavma, which is a name I gave a character once, you’re like, who the hell is Marv Vavma? What was Marvma up to?'”

The writer described the decision as one of ‘great joys’ in his life to give every actor a character name. He added that there is also a legal issue, with names used on the show needing to be cleared in case they used the name of a real person. As a result he would opt for the ‘weirdest names’ as there would be a chance that no one else has that name.

Some of Schur’s favourite names they created for the show include Mona-Lisa Saperstein, who was played by Jenny Slate and Trodd Frankensteip who was a reporter who only appeared briefly.

There was also a Tyrion Fonzarelli, which was a combination of Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones and Arthur ‘Fonzie’ Fonzarelli from Happy Days. Coincidentally, Henry Winkler, who played Fonzie, also starred in Parks as Dr. Lu Saperstein.

One fan discovering for the first time commented: “I never knew about this and I love it!” Another added: “These names are just incredible.”

Parks and Recreation is streaming on Paramount+, Channel 4 and U.

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‘Best comedy of the century’ fans constantly rewatch is better than The Office

All episodes of the beloved series have found a new streaming home for your next binge watch

Many fans say the series now with a new streaming home is one of their all time favourites.

The show has been labelled as ‘best comedy of the century‘ with many viewers rewatching it constantly. It’s now easier than ever for potentially new audiences to discover it for themselves.

That is because all episodes of Parks and Recreation were just added to a new platform. At the time of writing, it is now available via Paramount+ as of today (August 20).

Users can sign up to the service directly through its own platform and app. Alternatively, those worried about the cost of yet another streaming service can also find the series on Channel 4 or U, at no extra cost.

The advantage of watching on Paramount+ is that viewers can sign up to watch without adverts interrupting their latest binge watch. For those unaware, Parks and Recreation follows the titular department in the local government based in the fictional town of Pawnee, based in Indiana.

There, we find Leslie Knope, the second-in-command of the department. Her life revolves around her work as well as her friends and colleagues. In the early seasons, she does everything she can to help concerned citizen and nurse Ann Perkins turn an abandoned construction site into a new park.

She is somewhat assisted by less enthusiastic colleagues including her boss Ron Swanson and intern April Ludgate. As the show progresses, viewers will see them come across plenty of red tape and other hurdles as they seek to improve their community.

Its impressive cast include Saturday Night Live alum Amy Poehler, now Marvel star Chris Pratt along with the likes of Severance actor Adam Scott, Rob Lowe, Nick Offerman and more.

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The show was co-created by Mike Schur and Dan Goor in what was originally seen as a spin-off of The Office US. It eventually developed into a standalone series in its own right.

Schur went on to create other beloved sitcoms after Parks including Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Good Place and A Man on the Inside for Netflix. However his work on Parks is still praised to this day.

Many fans suggest that it even surpassed The Office. One fan shared their thoughts online, as they posted to Reddit: “Parks and Recreation is better than The Office The first season was rough, but the rest of the show managed to be hilarious and heartwarming – an extremely difficult combo.”

They continued: “I’ve never seen a show with such distinctly interesting characters that was genuinely laugh out loud funny without having to be cringy, and for that, Parks and Rec wins it all in my book.”

Someone else added: “Hilarious, endlessly rewatchable Parks and Recreation is my favourite show of all time.”

While one person claimed: “Absolutely incredible series. In fact it’s probably the best thing to come out of American television ever and that’s the honest truth. It’s so impressive how consistently funny it is after season 2. Could honestly start re-watching it again and again and be content.”

One person went so far as to label it the “best comedy of this century”. As they went on: “This show has everything you would expect in a comedy series. When binge-watching this show I laughed, I cried, I became emotionally attached to characters, I said ‘aw’, I said ‘wow’, I was sad when characters left, I was happy when new characters were added and so on and so forth.

“The writing is fantastic because the various story lines and running gags are completely engrossing and make me laugh every time. The acting is superb because the dialog flows very well and seems very natural, while the improve scenes are absolutely hilarious. I have never laughed out loud so much when watching a show by myself.”

Parks and Recreation is streaming on Paramount+, Channel 4 and U.

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Gogglebox return date confirmed and Channel 4 fans will be thrilled

Gogglebox fans have been given an exciting update as Channel 4 confirms when the hit show will return to screens

Gogglebox fans can finally start counting down, with Channel 4 confirming when the much-loved show will return to screens.

The BAFTA-winning series is set to make its comeback on Friday, September 4 at 9pm, bringing another round of sofa-based reactions, hilarious one-liners and brutally honest opinions.

Now heading into its 28th season, Gogglebox has become a Friday night favourite, with viewers tuning in to see families and friends across the country watch some of the biggest moments on television.

From major dramas and reality TV to documentaries, talent shows and the week’s biggest talking points, the programme gives viewers the chance to see how other households react to the same shows they have been watching at home.

The return follows a series of changes to the cast last season, when five new households were introduced.

Among the newcomers were Glasgow pair Jake and Calum, the Gordon family from Surrey, Cotswolds couple Andrew and Alfie, Yorkshire duo Sara and Lara, and Edinburgh pair Rosie and Susie.

Channel 4 has yet to reveal whether another batch of new faces will be joining the Gogglebox family for the upcoming series.

Fans will also be hoping to see some of the programme’s most familiar faces back on their sofas.

Jenny and Lee, Pete and Sophie, Ellie and Izzi and the Malone family are all among the show’s best-known households and have become firm favourites with viewers over the years.

The new series also arrives as Gogglebox celebrates another accolade, having been shortlisted for a National Television Award.

The programme is nominated in the Factual Entertainment category alongside 24 Hours in Police Custody, Secret Garden, Sort Your Life Out and The Martin Lewis Money Show Live.

It is not the first time the Channel 4 favourite has picked up an NTA.

Back in 2023, Gogglebox took home the Bruce Forsyth Entertainment Award after beating some huge names, including Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! and The Masked Singer.

True to form, Lee and Jenny couldn’t resist adding their own humour to the occasion.

As he accepted the award, Lee joked: “To beat two people down here is unreal. We must be a better duo!” He then admitted the pair had been convinced they had no chance of winning and had not even prepared a speech.

With the new series now just weeks away, fans won’t have too much longer to wait before the familiar sofas are filled once again — and the country’s favourite TV critics are ready to have their say.

Gogglebox returns on Friday 4 September at 9pm on Channel 4.

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Woman dubbed ‘Britain’s most evil mum’ breaks silence ‘I don’t regret that’

Lisa Hayden-Johnson was jailed after fabricating her son Matthew’s illnesses

Lisa Hayden-Johnson has defended her actions in a new Channel 4 documentary.

The Devon woman has spoken out for the first time since being released from prison. She was jailed in 2010 for three years and three months after admitting cruelty and perverting the course of justice.

It came after she falsely claimed that her son Matthew suffered from a range of illnesses including diabetes, food allergies, cerebral palsy and cystic fibrosis.

Matthew’s supposed health battle attracted widespread media attention. The youngster went on to appear on various TV shows and was famously introduced to the Duchess of Cornwall, now Queen Camilla.

The young boy, now aged 25, was also subjected to medical interventions before doctors grew suspicious about his alleged health problems. Now, both mother and son are telling their sides of the story in new Channel 4 three-part series, Love You to Death.

A synopsis for the show states: “Young Matthew’s health problems worry medics and his mum Lisa. But when doctors’ efforts to improve Matthew’s condition don’t work, suspicions are raised and the police are called in to investigate.”

In the first episode, which aired on Wednesday (August 19), Lisa refutes the infamous ‘most evil mum’ title she earned as a result of the story.

She says: “I’ve never had the opportunity to [tell her story]. The newspaper articles are so incorrect. How can I be ‘Britain’s Most Evil Mother?'”

She goes on to add: “The only thing I was guilty of was putting my son first and fighting his battle, which is what I did. And I don’t regret that.”

Matthew, who will feature in the second episode of the series, spoke to the BBC about how it felt to hear his mother’s perspective.

He said: “It was a lot of disappointment but I think also frustration as almost two decades on, there is still a lack of accountability from her side.

“When I could see, even after two decades… she still holds the same story and believes that she did the best by me… that obviously isn’t right.” Matthew’s older sister, Laura, also speaks out in the documentary.

Love You To Death Episode 1 is streaming now on Channel 4

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Channel 4 issues fresh update on new 24 Hours in Police Custody episodes

Fans are eagerly awaiting news on brand new releases as the hit documentary series is set to return

Channel 4 has dropped a huge update on all new 24 Hours in Police Custody – and fans cannot wait.

The hit landmark documentary has been a firm favourite amongst fans since it was first released in 2014, following a local police force as they investigate serious crimes.

Plunged into the heart of an investigation, the award-winning series follows officers from the moment a 999 call is made, right through to conviction as detectives fight against the clock for justice.

Earlier this week, Channel 4 teased that brand new episodes could be released very soon, sending viewers into a frenzy. Now, the broadcaster has dropped another tantalising update, leaving fans of the show on the edge of their seats.

Taking to Facebook, the Channel 4 documentaries page shared a picture of a to-do list captioned: “Busy week ahead.”

The tasks listed on the image included: “1. Apologise to the legal team (again. 2. Collect rain coat from lost property. 3. Leak details of new 24 Hours in Police Custody. 4. Find out why our office pass doesn’t work anymore.”

The post hints that a major update could be released this week, and that brand new episodes may be on the way very soon. However, fans are still awaiting any official news, with the upcoming TV guide not giving anything away.

One person commented: “Ooooh, new 24 hours? Can’t wait.” Another said: “If they fire you we will hire you on the spot over at 24 Hours in Police Custody Group , we’ve got your 6.”

A third penned: “Oooh, teasing”, as a fourth echoed: “Number 3 only. Thank you…patiently waits for said leak.”

A fourth stated: “24 Hours in Police Custody is the best thing on C4, but can anyone help me understand why they’re not weekly, & just randomly appear? No ‘season’, just every now & again a new one’s there.”

A fifth replied: “#3 – we love watching that!” Another echoed: “Yes more 24 hours coming up. One of the best programmes on TV bar none!”

Earlier this year, new episodes were aired on Channel 4 before being replaced with repeats, a move which did not go down well with viewers at the time.

With calls for more episodes, it could be that prayers may be answers very soon. In the meantime, 24 Hours in Police Custody can be streamed on Channel 4 online.

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Who is Anna Chapman and where is she now?

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A glamorous ‘girl next door’ who was secretly a spy now has a brand new role

Anna Chapman in Spy Next Door: The Anna Chapman Story

New Channel 4 doc examines extraordinary life of Anna Chapman(Image: Channel 4)

Who is Anna Chapman and where is she now?

  1. A glamorous Russian spy who charmed her way into elite circles in New York and London before being exposed by the FBI is the subject of a new Channel 4 documentary tonight. According to its synopsis, it is compared to the plot of a Hollywood spy movie. It promises to tell the true story of a glamorous Russian spy who infiltrated UK society and America’s corridors of power As a result, many viewers wonder where she is now.
  2. Anna Chapman was secretly working for Russia’s SVR intelligence service while partying with billionaires and celebrities in Manhattan’s VIP hotspots. Born to a KGB official in Russia, she married a British citizen in 2001 to gain dual citizenship.
  3. Chapman moved to New York in 2009, setting up a property business as cover while infiltrating high society. She was spotted rubbing shoulders with Wall Street executives and even economist Nouriel Roubini – nicknamed ‘Dr. Doom’ after predicting the 2008 financial crisis.
  4. Behind the glamorous facade, Chapman was part of the Illegals Programme, transmitting encrypted messages to Moscow from Barnes and Noble cafés. Her mission was to gather intelligence and build networks to influence US foreign policy.
  5. The FBI tracked her for years under Operation Ghost Stories before sending in an undercover agent posing as a Russian handler. When Chapman grew suspicious and tested a fake passport at a police station on her father’s advice, agents swooped.
  6. She was arrested in June 2010 and held for just 12 days before being exchanged for Western spies in Vienna – including Sergei Skripal, later targeted in the Salisbury Novichok attack. Vladimir Putin claimed he “sang patriotic songs” with the returned agents at a special reception.
  7. Following her return to Russia, Chapman embraced celebrity in her home country and worked as a TV presenter, model and influencer with her own fashion line.
  8. Last year, Anna began a brand new job. She was appointed head of the Museum of Russian ­Intelligence. She is still active on Instagram under the name Anya Chapman.

READ THE FULL STORY: True story of ‘Russian spy next door’ who seduced her way into corridors of power

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Celebrity Hunted star forced to attend hospital while on run after cancer battle

A Celebrity Hunted star had to head to hospital while on the run only for the hunters to soon arrive

Celebrity Hunted took an emotional turn when a star on the programme had to attend hospital following their cancer battle.

The Channel 4 show – which sees stars going on the run and trying to stay hidden as they are hunted by experts – returned to screens for its new series earlier this month.

The show’s latest run, in aid of Stand Up To Cancer, sees celebs such as Strictly stars Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu, EastEnders‘ Brian Conley and his daughter Lucy and TV star siblings Scarlette and Stuart Douglas trying to hide from the Hunters.

And on Tuesday (August 11) another episode aired, in which Amy had to head to a hospital in Birmingham for the preventive cancer treatment that she has monthly.

The star announced in May 2023 that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and she went on to have a mastectomy and chemotherapy.

On the way to the hospital, Amy said: “I’m at a higher risk of the cancer returning because of my age.” Carlos then broke down in tears and explained: “It just brought me back to the time where you suffered but you always had the biggest smile on your face.”

Amy and Carlos then arrived at the appointment and Amy had to have an injection in her stomach. She said: “It’s getting more and more sore every time I have them now.” Amy then told Carlos: “Look at the size of this needle, look how thick that is.”

Before having the injection, Amy said: “I fall asleep sometimes after, because the treatment can make me feel so drowsy.” Watching the injection, Carlos then proclaimed: “Oh my gosh!”

The hunters soon found out about Amy and Carlos being in hospital and quickly headed over. Fortunately, the pair managed to make an escape from the hospital. While in the car though Amy revealed she was feeling “really tired” and the pair quickly headed to a local hotel so Amy could rest.

Meanwhile last week, Amy broke down in tears as she talked about her fears she can’t have children after cancer. “I’ve always wanted the honour to be a mum,” she said. “And obviously I don’t know if that’s going to be possible.”

Amy, who was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease when she was 19, went on: “A cancer diagnosis changes your life forever. I’d just got married, I had my whole life ahead of me, and all of a sudden my world fell apart in front of me. I’ve been given another shot at life, and I want to embrace and take every opportunity that comes my way.”

Celebrity Hunted airs on Channel 4 at 9pm

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Channel 4 star emotional over ‘failed’ marriage and admits ‘I felt a lot of shame’

Trewley-Precious opened up about the pressure she felt to stay in her marriage because of her culture, admitting she was left feeling ashamed after walking away

A Channel 4 star has opened up about her love life.

The Secret Lives of Gypsy Wives star broke down in tears as she said that she felt like a “failure” after leaving her marriage. Trewley-Precious made a return to our TV screens tonight (August 10) for another episode of her Channel 4 reality show, as she yet again allows cameras into her family life.

She attempts to forge a career online, while balancing the expectations of her traditional Traveller family. During a heartfelt moment, the reality star revealed she married at just 19 and left her husband three years later, admitting she felt a huge amount of shame because of the expectations placed on her within her culture.

In some Traveller communities, traditional expectations can place a strong emphasis on women marrying young, settling down and having children.

Trewley was discussing her life with a friend when she was asked how her family felt about her being a “rule breaker”, with her friend pointing out that, “realistically”, she should probably have been married with three children by now.

Speaking to the camera, Trewley explained: “Yeah, I’ve done one of those things. I was in a relationship for four years, I was a wife. To be married in our culture means that you’ve been given to a man without church and you’re set for life.”

The star went on to reveal that she had married her husband when she was just 19. “I got married to him when I was 19 and then I left him when I was 22,” she said. “I got out of there, it just wasn’t good, it wasn’t the nicest thing.” But despite leaving a relationship she says was not good for her, Trewley admitted she struggled emotionally with her decision.

“I felt a lot of shame when I left him, just because it felt like I had failed,” she said. Later, back in bed with her friend, Trewley became visibly emotional as she reflected on how long she had remained in the marriage. To think I was in such a bad place being in that marriage for so long,” she said. “I should have left that two years prior to everything and I didn’t because it was a shame.”

Fighting back tears, Trewley explained that the experience had fundamentally changed the way she viewed relationships and, most importantly, herself.

“It taught me that the only thing we had in common at that time is that we both didn’t love me and now I do,” she said. “I’d never be in something like that ever, ever, ever, ever again.”

Trewley went on to discuss the expectations she had grown up with about marriage and standing by a husband “through thick and thin”.

“I’ve seen a lot of women survive their marriages, survive this and that but I’m not doing that,” she said. “I’ve just been raised that you stand by a man through thick and thin but now that I’m older, I’ve also realised you show a man that you’ll go through anything with him, they’ll put you through everything.”

Her comments appeared to bring up painful memories of her own family, with Trewley becoming overwhelmed as she questioned how her mum had endured so much.

“How could my mum put up with so much, do so much, I can’t,” she said through tears. “In my head, I just couldn’t do what my mum did. So I failed.”

But her friend immediately reassured her that leaving an unhappy marriage did not mean she had failed. “No you haven’t failed. You know your worth,” her friend told her. Trewley admitted that learning her own worth had taken time. “I didn’t for a long time but it took me ages to get it back,” she said.

And it appears the experience has completely changed what she wants from a future relationship. “The next person I will be with, they will tick, tick, tick,” Trewley said.

You can catch up on Secret Lives of Gypsy Wives on Channel 4.

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Vogue Williams offers support as Channel 4 airs woman’s touching tribute to late partner

Vogue Williams and Luke Mabbott are helping homeowners with their difficult renovations

A heartwarming tribute was aired after a special renovation.

After launching in 2024 as one of Channel 4′s biggest new lifestyle titles, Renovation Rescue has returned for a second series with two brand new hosts.

Armed with a degree in Construction Design and Management and another in Quantity Surveying, presenter Vogue Williams has taken charge of proceedings alongside trained heating and plumbing engineer and former Love Island star Luke Mabbott.

The series follows ambitious renovations as Vogue and Luke share money-saving skills, offer design inspiration, and demonstrate simple DIY techniques that anyone can try.

During the latest episode on Thursday (August 6), Vogue and Luke helped retired artist Penny in Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex.

After losing her partner of 20 years, Penny planned to make a fresh start near her daughter and grandchildren by the seaside.

“He died very suddenly of septicaemia, virtually overnight. He was climbing trees one minute and the next minute he was gone. I woke up one day and said, ‘Look, Penny, he’s dead. You’re alive, so get on with it and make the best of the time you have here,'” she said.

But after Penny fell for a house that needed a total overhaul, the plans were put on hold as the renovation went badly over budget and behind schedule.

“I don’t think I’ve ever experienced this level of anxiety and stress,” Penny revealed.

To make Penny’s remaining budget go further, Vogue showed her clever ways to achieve the artistic aesthetic she loves without spending a fortune, including helping to create some beautiful cupboard doors with a lozenge-shaped detail.

Meanwhile, Luke showed Penny how to tackle DIY tasks including blockwork in the courtyard and creating a garden gate.

Later in the episode, Penny showed Vogue a picture that her late partner, Martin, had drawn years before – which has become one of her most treasured possessions.

“To me it’s quite important because I haven’t been able to show any of his work. He was very proud of this piece of work, actually,” she said, before Vogue added: “I think this should be the last thing that you put on the wall.”

Penny agreed: “Yeah and I will feel that Martin’s finally found a place,” leading Vogue to share how pleased she was that Penny could start looking to the future.

After all the work had been done on the property, Vogue and Luke paid Penny a visit and were stunned by the transformation.

Penny had even put Martin’s “beautiful” framed picture in the centre of her living room, flanked by a pair of floor-to-ceiling alcove cupboards that the hosts had made.

“It looks amazing,” said Vogue, with Penny concluding: “I feel as if I’ve got past the grieving stage where I’m not crying at the drop of a hat. Now, I can look at it and feel pleased that it’s there. He was very pleased with that piece of work.”

Renovation Rescue is available to stream on Channel 4

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‘I’m on E4’s Cruising Paradise and this is what really goes on behind the scenes’

Cruising Paradise: Above and Below Deck is a brand new series on E4 charting the lives of young workers on luxury liners

A brand new reality travel series has arrived on screens, charting the lives of young workers on cruise ships.

Perfect for fans of reality shows like Below Deck and Below Deck Down Under, the new E4 series, Cruising Paradise: Above and Below Deck will see brand new episodes released every Thursday at 9pm.

Having been filmed across luxury liners belonging to Princess Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, last week’s introductory episode focussed in on the young teams aboard the Star Princess ship.

A synopsis reads: “The series follows the highs and lows of working life at sea, from demanding shifts and missing home to late-night camaraderie with colleagues and off-duty adventures as the ships call at some of the world’s most spectacular destinations.

“For the crew it’s a glamorous, all-encompassing job which sees personal and professional lives intertwine – and the Cruising Paradise cameras will cover all the fun, friendships and romance that unfolds during a season onboard.”

Now, one crew member featured on the show has spoken to the Mirror’s Screen Time team, and revealed what it’s really like being followed by TV cameras whilst being on the ship.

Guest services manager Magda admitted she was excited for viewers to see the “back of house”, the crew side of things, adding: “And how chaotic it actually is, but in a very energetic and flexible way just to see how much we put into it.”

Confessing the cameras caught it all, including the “strong sides, weak sides and what makes it all come together”, Magda revealed there is one misconception about her job.

Dealing with customers every day, she said: “The main one being a guest services manager means you deal only with negative guests but that’s not quite true. I think I often deal with 10 very happy guests, and maybe, maybe one.”

However, there are some downsides to the job, the main one being away from loved ones for up to weeks at a time. Magda revealed: “It is quite hard because time here feels like it goes so fast but the reality of the outside world that things are happening, moments are happening, birthdays, celebrations so it is a different time world. We live in a different universe.”

But for Magda, she would not change a thing, admitting the staff really are as close as what viewers see on screen, becoming what she would describe as a “very close family”.

She said: “We really are close and we know what we have to do. When it comes to work everyone knows what their job is and we know that if we all achieve the target our lives become easy, working together makes it easier.”

Magda, who does get time to explore destinations – with the Europe itinerary being her favourite so far – added: “The best part of my job is between the guests and my team.

“My team, making them laugh, making them smile and knowing that they’re supported by me is a fulfilling moment for me.

“And with the guests same thing, meeting different guests from all over the world who are here for different purposes and different travel reasons whether it’s leisure or something personal for them. I love hearing their stories, so I love every aspect of my job.”

Cruising Paradise: Above and Below Deck airs Thursdays at 9pm on E4. Stream on Channel 4.

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Celebrity Hunted viewers in tears as Strictly star breaks down on show

Strictly Come Dancing pro Amy Dowden is one of the stars on the run on Celebrity Hunted

Celebrity Hunted viewers were emotional as one of the contestants broke down in tears on the show.

Strictly Come Dancing pro Amy Dowden, who is taking part in the Channel 4 programme with fellow dancer Carlos Gu, started to cry as she talked about her fears she can’t have children after cancer.

The star announced in May 2023 that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and she went on to have a mastectomy and chemotherapy.

She opened up about her concerns during the latest instalment of the show, which sees stars on the run and trying to evade capture while being pursued by experts. She and Carlos stayed with fellow Strictly star Neil Jones and his family, including his daughter Havana. When Carlos noted how good Amy was with the three-year-old, she became tearful.

“I’ve always wanted the honour to be a mum,” she said. “And obviously I don’t know if that’s going to be possible.”

Amy, who was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease when she was 19, went on: “A cancer diagnosis changes your life forever. I’d just got married, I had my whole life ahead of me, and all of a sudden my world fell apart in front of me.

“I’ve been given another shot at life, and I want to embrace and take every opportunity that comes my way.”

Viewers were also moved, with one posting on X: “If anyone is in doubt about why Shine & C4 make this show, watch that first part. BRB, something’s in my eye.”

Sharing a teary-eyed emoji on the platform, which was formerly Twitter, someone else said: “Amy Dowden opening up about her cancer journey on Celebrity Hunted. WE LOVE YOU AMY!”

“Awww Amy,” said another moved fan.

The latest series of Celebrity Hunted, which is in aid of Stand Up To Cancer, also features EastEnders‘ Brian Conley and his daughter Lucy, and television personalities Scarlette and Stuart Douglas.

Love Islanders Chris Taylor and Toby Aromolaran, presenters and disability advocates JJ Chalmers and Sophie Morgan, and comedians Jen Brister and Laura Smyth are also striving to escape from lead Hunter Ray Howard and his squad.

Celebrity Hunted is airing on Channel 4.

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Celebrity Hunted viewers all say same thing minutes into new Channel 4 series

Celebrity Hunted is back with a new set of stars heading out on the run in the UK

Celebrity Hunted viewers all had the same response as the new series of the show began.

The programme – which sees stars going on the run and trying to stay hidden as they are hunted by experts – last aired in early 2025, so fans were thrilled as it returned on Channel 4.

The show’s latest run, in aid of Stand Up To Cancer, sees celebs such as Strictly stars Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu, EastEnders‘ Brian Conley and his daughter Lucy and TV star siblings Scarlette and Stuart Douglas trying to hide from the Hunters. Love Islanders Chris Taylor and Toby Aromolaran, presenters and disability advocates JJ Chalmers and Sophie Morgan and comedians Jen Brister and Laura Smyth are also trying to evade capture by Ray Howard and his team.

“So happy Celebrity Hunted is back,” one person wrote on X as the series started.

“The best time of the year is back and I can’t wait,” someone else wrote on the platform, which was formerly Twitter.

“We are so back,” said another, as one fan exclaimed: “Bring it on!” as another view said simply: “Finally.”

“Great to have a new series of Celebrity Hunted!” said someone else. “It’s a show that even after 11 years on air (*civilian and celeb series*) it’s always a must watch. It seems like the civilian series is now aired every 16/22 months. @Channel4 any news about a 2027 civilian series?”

Somebody else quipped: “If I ever become a celebrity, Celebrity Hunted better still be around. It looks like so much fun.”

The celebrities on the show have been tasked with vanishing into mainland Britain, cutting themselves off from their lives – and their fame.

“For 14 relentless days they must stay hidden, think fast and trust no one because the moment they leave a trail, the hunt is on,” said a synopsis.

“Pursuing them is Ray Howard and his elite team of Hunters drawn from policing, military and intelligence backgrounds. They have the full arsenal of the modern state at their disposal including CCTV, ANPR, Facial Recognition, helicopters, drones, search dogs, cyber investigations and media appeals. Every clue, every sighting and every mistake can mean a capture.

“In a world where almost every movement leaves a footprint, can these celebrity fugitives escape the glare of the spotlight and remain under the radar or will the Hunters bring every fugitive into custody before the 14 days are up?”

While viewers were delighted to see the show return, one posted a message on social media questioning whether it was “set up” after the opening sequence, which saw the stars being tracked by helicopters.

They asked: “Has there ever been a more set up show As if the flight plans for these 3 helicopters weren’t submitted to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) weeks ago and are all flying at the legal mandated speed, height and distance between them in London.”

“Obsessed with how fake this is now,” joked someone else, as another viewer wondered: “Hang on… heading east when the lone heli stops the pair but that looks suspiciously like Westminster Bridge under them even though they’ve just flown over the city…”

Celebrity Hunted is airing on Channel 4.

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Channel 4 slammed as fans fume new ADHD documentary sends ‘dangerous’ message

Viewers have been left furious over the Channel 4 announcement, ahead of upcoming documentary The Great ADHD Myth?

An upcoming Channel 4 documentary has been blasted by viewers for suggesting a “dangerous” message.

The broadcaster has announced a programme on ADHD, titled The Great ADHD Myth?, which has sparked immense backlash.

The documentary, according to Channel 4, “seeks to determine whether ADHD is a genuine neurodevelopmental disorder, or a social construct”.

It apparently asks: “With so many questions on what ADHD is, should we really be giving so many children powerful psychiatric drugs to medicate it?”

This comes after the NHS released information about the number of people affected by ADHD. Data from May 2025 reports that it is estimated that 2,498,000 people in England have ADHD, including those without a diagnosis.

Of those, an estimated 741,000 are children and young people aged between five and 24. The report also stated that in March 2025, up to 20,000 people were newly referred for an ADHD assessment to mental health services, an increase of 13.5% from the previous year.

The Channel 4 programme, featuring NHS psychiatrist Dr Max Pemberton, will be looking into “why” the traits of ADHD exist.

A press release for The Great ADHD Myth? States: “While the traits of ADHD undeniably exist – the question is why they exist. Is ADHD actually a neurodevelopmental disorder? Do people with ADHD have differently wired brains? Or does our world – with phones, ultra-processed food, and regimented education system – serve as the catalyst for certain responses and patterns of behaviour? And with such uncertainty around the condition, should we really be giving children mind-altering drugs to treat it?”

The documentary hears from medical experts who are questioning “the conventional narrative” around ADHD, and will follow a young family who “want to see whether holistic lifestyle changes can eliminate one boy’s use of ADHD medication”.

Dr Pemberton said: “As a psychiatrist, I’ve watched ADHD go from a diagnosis that was only occasionally made and after careful assessment, to one that is increasingly demanded and dispensed, and I wanted to understand why. There’s no doubt that the people seeking these diagnoses are genuinely struggling; that isn’t in question. What the film asks is whether ADHD is really the best explanation for that struggle and my hope is that we come away with permission to ask better questions about what modern life is doing to all of us.”

The Channel 4 announcement has left some social media users appalled, with one writing: “The endless hostility toward people with ADHD, autism, and anxiety is reaching a terrifying point.” Another said: “Who signed off on this man? I don’t even have ADHD and I’m outrageously offended.”

One person blasted: “What ableist bulls**t is this, @Channel4??” Someone else said: “More demonising and minimising those with mental health struggles. Fabulous.” One person called it “absolutely disgusting”, while another said it was “incredibly hurtful”.

Another wrote: “I don’t have ADHD, but I never thought Channel 4 would stoop so low.” Yet another echoed: “Demonising neurodivergence. What a time to be alive.” Someone else said: ““Myth? It’s not a myth if you have ADHD. What a way to frame it.”

Another person called the documentary “irresponsible and dangerous,” as someone else wrote: “As someone recently diagnosed, I am already sick and tired of ADHD being framed as “not real”. It made school utter hell for me, and impacts my day to day life. Why Channel 4 seem intent on pushing stuff like this I will never know.”

Other people expressed their interest in the show, with one saying: “I’ve been diagnosed and I wonder this too!” Someone else said: “The outrage this has caused illustrates why it is needed. No diagnostic neurodevelopmental process has ever been established as constitute of ADHD, despite what is implied and many have been led to believe. The question posed by the doc, then, is entirely legitimate.”

In a statement, a Channel 4 spokesperson said: “This documentary does not deny the lived experience of people with ADHD traits, but does hear from a group of senior medical and academic experts – many of whom work or have worked with the NHS or have held presidential roles at professional membership bodies – who seek to question whether ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder. They also ask whether modern living has contributed to a rise in diagnoses, and whether there may be better alternatives for children than medication.”

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True crime fans cannot stop talking about ‘chilling’ new doc everyone needs to watch

The three part documentary has finally been released in the UK

True crime fans cannot stop talking about a brand new documentary that has been dubbed a “disturbing” watch.

Don’t Date Brandon has this week been released on Channel 4, with all three episodes airing last night (July 30) as it explores two chilling relationships.

Viewers are plunged into the moment that two women discover that they have dated the same man that they met online, but despite things seemingly appearing well, dark secrets are soon uncovered.

Amber Rasmussen and Athena Klingerman bravely open up on how they were manipulated by con man Brandon Johnson as the three part series exposes his elaborate web of lies and past abuse.

A Channel 4 synopsis reads: “True crime series. When Amber finds out that her husband’s a liar, she starts a podcast with his ex-wife. But as more women come forward, they discover that Brandon isn’t just a cheat; he’s dangerous.”

First airing on Paramount+ last year, Don’t Date Brandon has just been released on Channel 4, with all three episodes available to stream online for free. Despite its release in 2025, viewers are only just discovering the harrowing watch now as they say it is a must watch for everyone.

Taking to TikTok, one true crime fan said in a video: “I promise you definitely won’t want to miss this one because it is an absolutely wild ride.”

They went on to say: “As you’re watching this documentary it becomes more and more dark and more and more terrifying. What unfolds at the end of it is truly quite chilling and there are actually some very disturbing scenes in this so be aware of that.”

In another video, another viewer said: “It’s quite good.” One person commented: “Just finished Don’t Date Brandon. Started it last night – had horrible nightmares about my ex last night.”

Taking to their own video, one person admitted they were not “prepared for this documentary” as they captioned their post: “Craziest one in a while”.

Another stated they have been “waiting for the longest time” for the UK release, adding: “I cannot wait to watch this, I’ve heard great things from those of you who have already seen it.”

One person replied: “Don’t Date Brandon is amazing I watched it on YouTube crazy.”

When it was released in the USA last year, one viewer said it was one of the “most horrifying” documentaries they had watched, adding on TikTok: “Episode 3 is incredibly hard to watch.”

Don’t Date Brandon can be streamed for free on Channel 4

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Brandon Johnson and where he is now as Don’t Date Brandon airs on Channel 4

Don’t Date Brandon is the ‘terrifying’ true crime series that fans won’t be able to stop watching tonight.

Don’t Date Brandon viewers have been left with “chills” after watching the three-parter.

Originally released on Paramount Plus last year, Don’t Date Brandon is making its way to Channel 4 tonight, Thursday, July 30, with all three episodes shown back-to-back.

The true crime doc follows Brandon Johnson’s first and second ex-wives, Athena Klingerman and Amber Rasmussen, respectively. After getting in touch and sharing their experiences of a toxic relationship with Johnson, including alleged years of threats, stalking and harassment, they reportedly secured protective orders against him.

The pair then went on to the podcast Ex-Wives Undercover to alert other women and give others who encountered him a voice.

Where is Brandon Johnson now?

Brandon Johnson was sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty in 2023 to assault as well as attempted kidnapping with intent to rape.

According to the docu-series, he also “admitted to 10 counts of attempted first-degree theft in a separate fraud case”, stealing $392,000 from his former employer HTC.

He was sentenced to 36 months in prison in 2019 for this case ordered to be served concurrently with his 10-year term.

As part of the original plea deal that Johnson made at the time, he agreed to lifetime registration as a sex offender in California.

He is currently serving his decade-long sentence in a California state prison but Johnson is up for parole in May 2027.

Speaking to Variety about concerns they had about turning the podcast into a series, Klingerman said: “We thought long and hard about it, because you’re right: This story is reaching an even broader audience now.

“But we needed to get the word out, so it was worth any consequences we could face. At this point, it’s like let’s keep moving forward.

“Let’s expose who Brandon is, because Brandon represents so many other Brandons out there. It’s worth the risk of backlash to reach a larger audience and let other people know who might be going through this that they are not alone.”

Don’t Date Brandon is available to watch on Channel 4.

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Educating Yorkshire returns to Channel 4 as new series is commissioned

Educating Yorkshire is set to return to Channel 4 for a brand new series, with Headteacher Matthew Burton and the students of Thornhill Community Academy back on screens once again.

Channel 4 has confirmed that one of British television’s most celebrated documentary series is making its return.

Educating Yorkshire has been given the green light for a brand new run, and fans will be thrilled.

More than a decade on from its debut, the Channel 4 show that captured the hearts of the nation is heading back to Thornhill Community Academy in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, where cameras will once again follow the staff and pupils navigating the highs and lows of school life.

The original series launched in 2013 and quickly became a cultural touchstone, with one moment in particular proving unforgettable – Headteacher Matthew Burton guiding a pupil with a stammer through his English literature GCSE poetry recitation in a scene that left viewers across the country in tears.

Burton, who remains at the helm of Thornhill, will be front and centre once again in the new series.

After more than a decade off air, the show staged a remarkable comeback in 2025, earning a BAFTA nomination and pulling in a staggering 8.7 million viewers across linear and streaming platforms.

People were quick to praise the show’s comeback at the time, with one person commenting: “This is brilliant!!”

Another added: “Im so over the moon this is back absolutely brilliant. Ive watched Mr Burton and Mushy episodes over again . Its been too long – welcome back . No doubt there will be lots of laughs and tears – love it love it love it.”

Someone else wrote: “I can not wait for the new series of Educating Yorkshire.” While another commented: “Omggggg is he back!?!? That teacher is the reason I want to teach in the first place.”

Channel 4 revealed that the programme attracted 8.7 million viewers across linear and streaming platforms, proving a particular hit with younger audiences and securing a 28% share of 16-34s.

The show has clearly left a lasting impression, with three in ten viewers aged between 16 and 34 saying Educating Yorkshire had inspired them to consider pursuing a career in education or youth work.

Grace Reynolds, Exec Producer, commented: “The extraordinary teachers and staff help the students navigate some of the most important years of their lives.

“While headlines often focus on the challenges facing teenagers today, our experience making the series tells a different story. Spend time in Thornhill and you’ll find resilience, compassion, ambition and optimism. If it reminds us of anything, it’s that the future is in remarkably good hands.”

No broadcast date has yet been confirmed for the new series.

Educating Yorkshire is available to watch on Channel 4.

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Our Yorkshire Farm’s Amanda Owen reflects on the future after ‘morbid’ discovery

The Owen family are back on screens today as a repeat episode of Our Farm Next Door airs

Amanda Owen reflected on the future at Anty John’s after making a morbid discovery.

Amanda, who has described owning Anty John’s “as a dream come true”, has captivated viewers for years with her rugged rural life on the North Yorkshire Moors.

The farmer, author and TV personality rose to fame through the Channel 5 series Our Yorkshire Farm, which followed her life at Ravenseat Farm alongside her nine children — Raven, Reuben, Miles, Edith, Violet, Sidney, Annas, Clemmie and Nancy — and her then-husband Clive Owen.

Since her split from Clive in 2022, Amanda has embarked on a new chapter, taking on Anty Johns, a historic property that has become the subject of her latest Channel 5 series, Our Farm Next Door.

The show follows Amanda and her children as they restore and settle into their new home, and during a repeat airing on Sunday, it took a distinctly “morbid” turn.

Taking advantage of a day off from the demanding farm work that keeps her and her nine children busy, Amanda paid a visit to Derek at the County Records Office. There, the historian uncovered the diary of Anty Johns’ former owner, revealing that the man had breathed his last breath within the very walls of the property.

Eager to unearth the secrets of her new home’s past, Amanda made her wishes clear to the historian: “I guess what I am wanting to find out is who in this extensive family tree was actually residing in my house at Anty Johns.”

Turning his attention to Anthony Clarkson’s ancestry, Derek guided Amanda through the Clarksons’ family history, concluding with John, the last of the bloodline to live at Anty Johns, who died in 1900.

Fascinated by the records, including details of John Clarkson’s inquest, Amanda read aloud from the document: “The body of the man, aged about 81, is lying dead at Smithy Home (Anty Johns).”

She discovered John’s final moments: “Time of death 6am, 5th December 1900. At about 9am on Tuesday, the housekeeper, Anne, proposed to send for the doctor, but the deceased would not hear of it.”

Amanda went on, quoting: “And said, ‘I shall soon be better and about’. I know it’s kind of morbid, but it sort of humanises people when you hear about it.”

Recounting the history, she added: “So basically, we know in 1900, the last Clarkson died upstairs in a bedroom at Smithy Home.”

Searching for further family stories, Derek highlighted that Anthony’s marriage records would prove crucial. Anthony wed his first wife in 1818, and shortly after their marriage they welcomed four children and made Smithy Home their residence.

Anthony’s second wife’s death was recorded as Angina, a touching detail discovered amongst the documents. A diary penned by one of Anthony’s children, James, also provides glimpses into his father’s passing.

Our Farm Next Door: Amanda, Clive and Kids is available to watch on Channel 4.

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Claudia Winkleman confesses she’s ‘the idiot of the group’ as she launches new series of The Piano

Television favourite Claudia Winkleman is still amazed that she is asked to present Channel 4 talent show The Piano when she has zero musical knowledge. Speaking ahead of the launch of the fourth series on Sunday, she says: “I still know absolutely nothing, but nobody seems to mind. They haven’t shouted at me, so I’m like the idiot of the group.

“I know what moves me, but I’m just there as a conduit. I’m there to chat to people and make them as comfortable as possible and try and hear as much of their story as possible, so that the mentors can then get to know them a bit before they play.”

The show sees amateur pianists showing off their skills on instruments placed in bustling railway stations, unaware that professional musicians are secretly watching and judging them. Claudia, who will be working alongside Lebanese-born pop star Mika, known for hits including Grace Kelly and Lollipop, would love to see more Elton John numbers on the show. She says: “I am longing for someone to play some Elton John. I just want somebody to play his amazing music.”

Claudia and Mika will be joined by new mentors, including Jamie Cullum and Jools Holland, who will help to weed out stars of the future. Claudia, 54, says of The Piano: “I love it so much. We’re so lucky because when we did it for the first time, we thought we’d only get one go.

“It is an absolute privilege to wait in stations for these amazing pianists who surprise us. We learn about their lives, meet their friends and family and we learn about why playing the piano is important to them. For all of us involved it’s an honour. I can’t wait to see who we’re going to meet. What’s so thrilling about this amazing show, is you have no idea who’s just around the corner and is just walking towards you through the station.”

Welcoming her new army of mentors, she says: “They all bring very different perspectives. In every location, they will choose somebody to play at the final concert, so it’s going to be fascinating.

“What I loved about having different mentors is that they love the idea and they love the show. So, what was brilliant was to have people who were so enthusiastic. I love the fact they wanted to be part of it. It’s not glamorous and we adored them for wanting to be there. It was ‘hello, welcome to Birmingham New Street station, can I get you a Greggs?’ They were all absolutely up for it.”

Now a household name after 30 years in showbusiness, which has seen her present hit shows like Strictly and Traitors, Claudia would advise wannabe media stars to go for hands-on experience over a degree. She says: “Don’t study at university. Go, but don’t study subjects like media studies. I would study something else. It is just about experience. I don’t think you need to study media. Just work around it.”

Claudia comes from a media background. Her mum, Eve Pollard, is a former newspaper editor, who was once at the helm of The Sunday Mirror and Sunday Express and her dad, Barry Winkleman, was a book publisher.

When she felt the urge to try TV, after working in a gallery, she says: “At the age of 24, I applied to the former TV company Planet 24 and got a call from Janet Street-Porter’s office and I just continued. I worry about people who know what direction they want to go in. That is nerve wracking. It is OK not to know. “

But Claudia admits that her career has involved some weird assignments. She says: “Once I dressed up as a fruit for Fruit Awareness Week on This Morning. I was a kiwi! I remember going ‘we are going to go live as a fruit.’”

Claudia graduated with an honours degree in fine art from Cambridge University, although her cheeky charm was nurtured during her days as a pupil at the City of London School for Girls. She says: “I had the most amazing history of art teacher, but my friend and I thought it would be easy. We wore fishnets, smoked fags and flirted with boys. It was like ‘paintings? Yada-yada.’ We were not bad but naughty.

“I remember one day our teacher, Mrs Dale, in the first lesson, clicked her fingers and made us all walk to St Paul’s Cathedral. She said ‘I have had enough. You look up and this is what we are going to teach you’. She was unbelievable and the way she introduced art to us was great. She took us to Venice and made us appreciate Titian. She was brilliant.”

Her father, Barry, who was divorced from her mum Eve in 1975, when she was just three, also loved taking her to galleries. She says: “My parents impacted me massively. My dad used to take me to The National Gallery and the only rule was we were only allowed to look at one painting.

“He did not want to bore me to death. Now, when I take my kids, we are in for the duration. But there was no rush when my dad took me and it made me want to go back. My dad taught me so much. My mum and dad both taught me things like, ‘make the tea and be early. Be the last one to leave. Don’t worry what you look like. It is just a shell and that is going to go’.

“I was brought up by a brilliant feminist. Once I asked my mum for a Barbie doll and she was like ‘don’t be ridiculous. That is not what you are supposed to look like’. I was told to ‘be interested, don’t worry about being interesting and ask questions.’ I was told ‘don’t be one of those tools who sits there and waits.’ I was never daunted by what they did. Only grateful. I always felt grateful that they worked so hard.”

Claudia, in turn, passes on her experience to her three children, Jake, 23, Matilda, 20, and Arthur,15, who she shares with her film and television producer husband, Kris Thykier. And she says they teach her too. Claudia continues: “I have learned everything from my kids. Life before was just waiting for them.”

Like many parents, she has steered her children away from social media. She says: “Social media is awful. It is an absolute nonsense. I would never put my kids on it. I have tried to explain to them how awful it is. I don’t post a lot of stuff on social media. I have posted six times this year.”

Instead, Claudia – who likes the ethos of her favourite filmstar, ET, whose catchphrase is ‘be good’ – gets her thrills from doing live TV. The Traitors presenter, whose BBC1 chat show – which launched in March – was recently axed after lukewarm reviews, says: “Live is exciting. It is like doing exams at school, I know it is weird but I like being tested. I like a test.

“Not a driving test as I failed many of those. Turns out head on chin is not helpful. I do get incredibly nervous though but it wakes you up. I like the nerves. When I used to do Strictly with Tess I just used to grip her upper arm all the time.” Let’s hope there’s no arm-grabbing on The Piano – to avoid any bum notes.

*The new series of The Piano continues on Channel 4, Sunday at 9pm.

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