First look images have been released for Channel 4’s new drama Number 10, written by Doctor Who and Sherlock creator Steven Moffat and starring Rafe Spall as the Prime Minister
Former Emmerdale actress Jenna Coleman plays the Deputy Chief of Staff in Number 10(Image: Channel 4)
Channel 4 has unveiled first look images from its upcoming drama Number 10, featuring Rafe Spall in the role of Prime Minister.
The newly-released photographs also showcase Coronation Street’s Katherine Kelly as Chief of Staff and Emmerdale’s Jenna Coleman as Deputy Chief of Staff, appearing alongside the Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office.
Jenna, Katherine and Rafe lead an impressive ensemble cast that includes Akshay Khanna, Abigail Lawrie, Laura Haddock, Jing Lusi, Pierro Niel-Mee, Rick Warden, Joe Wilkinson, Robyn Cara, Richard Rankin and Rhiannon Clements, amongst others.
The official synopsis for the programme states: “Set in the only terrace house in history with mice and a nuclear deterrent, it’s the only knock-through in the world where a hangover can start a war.
There’s a Prime Minister in the attic, a coffee bar in the basement and a wallpapered labyrinth of romance, crisis and heartbreak in-between, reports Wales Online.
“The government will be fictional and unspecific, but the problems will be real. We’ll never know which party is in power, because once the whole world hits the fan it barely matters.”
“This is a show about the building and everyone inside. Not just the Prime Minister upstairs, but the conspiracy theorist who runs the cafe three floors below, the man who repairs the lift that never works, the madly ambitious ‘advisors’ fighting for office space in cupboards. Oh, and of course, the cat.
“A drama about one of the most famous addresses in the world, Number 10 is all of Britain in a house: it’s British history under one roof. It’s how we all got into the mess we’re in. It’s also our only hope of getting out of it.”
Former Doctor Who showrunner Steven, who also co-created Sherlock and Dracula, said of his new project: “For me, it’s all about famous doors! The doors to the TARDIS, the door to 221B Baker Street, and now the most famous door in the world – Number 10.”
“I’ve been wanting to write about the mad house that runs the madhouse for years, and I’ve never had so much fun doing the research. If you want to do a workplace comedy drama, this one is the boss of them all.”
Discussing his latest role, Rafe said: “Number 10 is a sensational piece of writing, equal to its peerless author, Steven Moffat. I’m delighted to be playing the Prime Minister, in a funny, real and thrilling piece of TV.”
Jenna added: “I thought it was about time I visited another British institution with Steven Moffat. I’m very much looking forward to moving into Number 10 with Steven’s cracking scripts.”
Channel 4’s Falling ended with an emotional title card tribute to the late Rob Picton.
22:45, 19 May 2026Updated 22:46, 19 May 2026
Falling is airing on Channel 4(Image: CHANNEL 4)
Channel 4’s new drama Falling concluded with a touching tribute to Rob Picton, who worked on the production crew.
The series, penned by Adolescence writer Jack Thorne and featuring Keeley Hawes and Paapa Essiedu, revolves around a “forbidden love story between a Catholic priest and a devoted nun”.
Tuesday evening’s premiere captivated Channel 4 audiences with the story of Sister Anna and priest David. At the episode’s conclusion, a memorial card appeared on screen reading: “In loving memory of Rob Picton.”
According to TVGuide, this honoured Rob Picton, who served as a unit driver on Falling, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Picton, who also worked as a driver on Gavin and Stacey, sadly died last year.
Gavin and Stacey star Mathew Horne previously appeared to acknowledge the loss during a Somerset event, stating: “Earlier on… we had a driver on the finale called Rob and he was in his early 40s… and I found out via the WhatsApp group earlier that he has passed away and I got slightly distracted there.”
He continued: “It’s really, really sad. I got distracted by losing Rob. He was a really lovely guy and he’s left a four-year-old behind and that is really, really, really sad.”
Picton was equally renowned as a DJ, performing under the name Joe Blow.
Last year, the Barry and District News reported that Picton was a father of five from Barry, describing him as an “absolute legend in the Welsh music scene” who championed numerous emerging artists.
A GoFundMe page was established to support his family, with a message posted on the platform stating: “We’ve now received a little more information about our dear friend Rob Picton.
“While we still don’t fully know the reasons or circumstances around his sudden passing, what we do know is that Rob was proud – proud of his children, his work, and the life he lived.
“Just a few weeks ago, I was sitting in the car with him, chatting about his birthday weekend and his kids. It’s still hard to believe he’s no longer with us.
“This GoFundMe has been set up on behalf of Fiona and Jerry Lockett, to support Rob’s family and honour his memory during this incredibly difficult time.”
Ali Bastian played Becca Hayton in Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks for six years before the character was brutally murdered in a heartbreaking storyline
Hollyoaks favourite Ali Bastian has addressed her time on the Channel 4 soap
A Hollyoaks legend has opened up on being killed off unexpectedly by Channel 4 bosses.
Ali Bastian joined the cast of the popular soap opera back in 2001 as Becca Hayton. At the time, the show was attracting millions of viewers and she found herself at the centre of some of its biggest storylines.
After deciding to leave the show in 2007, the actress admits she initially worried she’d made a huge mistake by walking away at the height of its success. However, she was soon rewarded with a regular role in ITV crime drama The Bill.
Opening up about her time on the soap to new online bingo brand Zingo Bingo, Ali recalled: “I was 19 when I started Hollyoaks, and it was a huge break for me. I’d always really wanted to be an actress. It was something that was just kind of in me.
“Becca went through loads of highs and lows in those six years and as an actor, I got to try loads of different things: comedy and heartbreak! My character, in the end, went through a lot of heartache, but it really challenged me as an actor and the speed as well that soap works at is insane.”
Fans will remember Becca was brutally murdered by her prison cellmate, Fran Hathaway in 2007. She had been sentenced to two years imprisonment for sexual activity with a minor, but the claimant, Justin Burton (Chris Fountain), admitted to lying.
Becca was stabbed shortly after being released, and died in hospital. She was officially exonerated posthumously in July 2007. Opening up on a storyline fans didn’t get to see before her emotinal exit, Ali explained: “If I hadn’t left at that point, I think that the plan was for Becca to return [to Hollyoaks village] and end up with Jake.
“This was a plan that was floated by me, but it was never sort of officially down on paper. By that point, I was also just really ready to go home as well. I’d been in Liverpool for six years and I felt that I was ready for a new start. At that point, I made the decision to leave. That is why that storyline ended how it ended [with Becca being killed off].
“I went home and I had about a month of thinking, ‘Oh my God have I made the biggest mistake here? What’s going to happen?’ Then I got an audition for The Bill. I went in as a guest and actually managed to get a regular role. I got a phone call that night saying, ‘You didn’t get the job, but they want you to come back tomorrow because they’re casting for a new regular’.
“I was like, ‘oh my God!’ I went back to that audition and I got the job and then I started as a regular on that and was there for three years. Our industry is so bonkers. You never know what’s around the corner. One door closes, another opens.”
Over the years, Hollyoaks bosses have brought back several iconic characters from the dead and Ali isn’t ruling out a return as Becca, saying: “I was ready [to leave], but I don’t think I would have chosen to die. I remember when I heard that I was like, ‘Oh, great. That is really the end of that. I’m never coming back’. I was a bit gutted, because I had that sense of knowing there was no way back.
“At the same time, it gave such a strong ending to that storyline and to her journey. I am quite glad I didn’t just disappear into a cupboard and never come out again. I did get a cracking final story. You hope for that, of course, but it did make it feel final!
“I mean, If they wanted me to go back as a ghost, I would definitely consider it. I feel like [Becca’s son] Charlie Dean (Charlie Behan) could do with some guidance. I’d be right in there to be like, ‘what’s going on here?’ That phone call never came. In some ways it’s like it kept me moving forward and kept me doing new things and different things and I’m glad for that too.”
Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am
In light of these serious allegations and other claims raised on the programme about the welfare of those taking part, Channel 4 announced an external review into the show, which is made by CPL productions.
It leaves the future of MAFS UK uncertain, and the 2026 series which has already been filmed, will not currently go out as intended in September. The Mirror understands plans for series are now completely paused, with a final decision of when the series could go out to be made at a later date, once the review presents its findings to Channel 4.
In the past few years, the MAFS UK series has always launched in mid-September and that was thought to be the original plan for this year. However those plans have been thrown into chaos by the Panorama investigation and the allegations made.
One source at series makers CPL said they felt the series would “definitely be delayed” whilst a Channel 4 source also confirmed that the broadcasters would be awaiting the results of the lengthy external review before making any firm decisions on the future of MAFS, along with the edit of the new series.
Even if the external review presents their results to Channel 4 before September, a source said they intend to “react responsibly” to the findings and implement any changes that need to be made. This will also take time and is expected to delay any future episodes being transmitted.
On Monday, Channel 4 removed all episodes from streaming and linear services, alongside MAFS UK social channels. Hours before the Panorama investigation was aired on the BBC, Channel 4 also put out a statement.
They insisted MAFS UK was “produced under some of the most comprehensive and robust welfare protocols in the industry”. Their statement added that the show included: “most thorough background checks available, a Code of Conduct which clearly sets out behavioural standards, daily contributor check-ins with a specialist welfare team and access to additional support before, during and after filming.”
But despite this, a number of contributors clearly feel let down and Channel 4 said that in April “Channel 4 was presented with serious allegations of wrongdoing against a small number of past contributors, allegations that we understand those contributors have denied”.
Channel 4’s recently appointed CEO, Priya Dogra has now instructed an external review of contributor welfare on MAFS UK.
This review is now underway and has two elements. The first, conducted by law firm Clyde & Co, is examining the welfare protocols in place on this programme at the time claims were raised, as well as the handling of these claims.
Channel 4 says it expects the review to report in the coming months and will share a summary of findings and recommendations at the appropriate time.
Priya Dogra, Chief Executive of Channel 4 said: “I want to express my sympathy to contributors who have clearly been distressed after taking part in Married at First Sight UK. The wellbeing of our contributors is always of paramount importance.
“It would be wholly inappropriate for me to comment on what are very serious allegations made against some MAFS UK contributors. Those allegations – which I understand are disputed by the contributors accused – are not something that Channel 4 is in a position to adjudicate on. We are also mindful of our ongoing duty of care to all contributors, and the need to preserve the anonymity and privacy of all involved.
“On the claims that Channel 4 may have failed in its duty of care, I believe that when concerns about contributor welfare were raised, and based on the information available at the time, Channel 4 acted quickly, appropriately, sensitively and with wellbeing front and centre.
“Nevertheless, because we aspire to the highest standards of contributor welfare, I felt strongly as Channel 4’s new CEO that it was right that we look again at how we handled issues raised at the time and ask whether changes should be made to further strengthen contributor welfare.
“That’s why last month I commissioned an external review of contributor welfare on MAFS UK. That review will report to me in the coming months.
“We take these issues very seriously and are committed to ensuring that we continue to lead the industry in our duty of care for contributors.”
Production company CPL have yet to release a statement in light of the Panorama findings. But lawyers for CPL, which makes the UK version of the show, said its welfare system is “gold standard” and industry-leading, and that it acted appropriately in all these cases.
The unnamed men accused of sexual misconduct on Panorama all deny all the allegations against them.
There have been 10 series to date on Channel 4 of the British version and it is one of their most popular shows, with consolidated audiences of over two million viewers per episode.
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
17:42, 18 May 2026Updated 17:58, 18 May 2026
Married At First Sight promo photo(Image: Channel 4 )
Channel 4 has removed all previous seasons of Married at First Sight UK from its streaming platforms.
It comes after the BBC reported that two women said they were raped during filming of the dating show, while a third described an allegation of a non-consensual sex act.
Channel 4 said that all previous seasons of MAFS UK have been removed from its streaming and linear services, and it announced that in April it commissioned an external review into contributor welfare.
Priya Dogra, chief executive of Channel 4 said: “I want to express my sympathy to contributors who have clearly been distressed after taking part in Married At First Sight UK. The wellbeing of our contributors is always of paramount importance.
“It would be wholly inappropriate for me to comment on what are very serious allegations made against some MAFS UK contributors.
“Those allegations – which I understand are disputed by the contributors accused – are not something that Channel 4 is in a position to adjudicate on.
“We are also mindful of our ongoing duty of care to all contributors, and the need to preserve the anonymity and privacy of all involved.
“On the claims that Channel 4 may have failed in its duty of care, I believe that when concerns about contributor welfare were raised, and based on the information available at the time, Channel 4 acted quickly, appropriately, sensitively and with wellbeing front and centre.”
Channel 4 statement in full
Channel 4 today announced that in April it commissioned an external review into contributor welfare on Married at First Sight UK (MAFS UK).
MAFS UK is a reality television series which sees single people – matched by experts – ‘marry’ strangers who they meet for the first time on their wedding day. It is produced for Channel 4 by independent production company CPL.
MAFS UK is produced under some of the most comprehensive and robust welfare protocols in the industry. These include the most thorough background checks available, a Code of Conduct which clearly sets out behavioural standards, daily contributor check-ins with a specialist welfare team and access to additional support before, during and after filming.
The physical and psychological wellbeing of all contributors is of paramount importance throughout the process. All duty of care processes are regularly reviewed and, where appropriate, strengthened.
In April, Channel 4 was presented with serious allegations of wrongdoing against a small number of past contributors, allegations that we understand those contributors have denied. The channel is mindful of the privacy and continuing duty of care towards all contributors, and cannot comment on or disclose details of those allegations.
Related to those allegations, Channel 4 was asked to respond to claims of failures in welfare protocols. Channel 4 believes that when concerns related to contributor welfare were raised through existing welfare and production protocols, prompt and appropriate action was taken, based on the information available at the time. Channel 4 strongly refutes any claim to the contrary.
Notwithstanding the actions taken at the time, Channel 4’s recently appointed CEO, Priya Dogra instructed an external review of contributor welfare on MAFS UK last month.
This review is now underway and has two elements. The first, conducted by law firm Clyde & Co, is examining the welfare protocols in place on this programme at the time claims were raised, as well as the handling by Channel 4 and CPL of those claims.
Alongside the lawyer-led review, Channel 4 has commissioned an external industry expert to examine if any changes should be made to current protocols for MAFS UK to further strengthen contributor welfare. This work is being led by former BBC One Controller Lorraine Heggessey, who is a highly experienced media executive with deep understanding of programme making, as well as being a vocal advocate for rigorous welfare protocols in TV production.
Channel 4 expects the review to report in the coming months and will share a summary of findings and recommendations at the appropriate time.
While the review is ongoing and until we receive any conclusions and recommendations – and considering Channel 4’s ongoing duty of care to all contributors, the seriousness of the allegations levelled against a small number of past contributors, and out of an abundance of caution to avoid fuelling speculation or jigsaw identification – all previous seasons of MAFS UK have been removed from Channel 4 streaming and linear services at this time, alongside Channel 4’s MAFS UK social channels.
Priya Dogra, Chief Executive of Channel 4 said; “I want to express my sympathy to contributors who have clearly been distressed after taking part in Married at First Sight UK. The wellbeing of our contributors is always of paramount importance.
“It would be wholly inappropriate for me to comment on what are very serious allegations made against some MAFS UK contributors. Those allegations – which I understand are disputed by the contributors accused – are not something that Channel 4 is in a position to adjudicate on. We are also mindful of our ongoing duty of care to all contributors, and the need to preserve the anonymity and privacy of all involved.
“On the claims that Channel 4 may have failed in its duty of care, I believe that when concerns about contributor welfare were raised, and based on the information available at the time, Channel 4 acted quickly, appropriately, sensitively and with wellbeing front and centre.
“Nevertheless, because we aspire to the highest standards of contributor welfare, I felt strongly as Channel 4’s new CEO that it was right that we look again at how we handled issues raised at the time and ask whether changes should be made to further strengthen contributor welfare.
“That’s why last month I commissioned an external review of contributor welfare on MAFS UK. That review will report to me in the coming months. We take these issues very seriously and are committed to ensuring that we continue to lead the industry in our duty of care for contributors.”
Season 19 aired in the US back in October 2025, which means its biggest bombshells have spread across social media. One standout storyline included bride Meghann Turner, who revealed she was pregnant in the ninth episode.
She married Derrek Wiedeman at the beginning of the show and they seemingly sparked a physical connection during their honeymoon.
Announcing the baby news on the show, Derrek said: “Where do we start? We found out some pretty crazy news today. Some miraculous news, unexpected news. I think we’re both nervous.”
Meghann then jumped in: “We’re pregnant! And we were not trying — to make that completely known.”
Although they were still early in their relationship, Derrek felt the pregnancy changed “pretty much everything,” while his wife added that they were both “shocked, scared and happy all at once.”
But Derrek was keen to keep the news a secret from the other couples because Meghann was still early in her term.
“It’s still really early in the whole pregnancy. It’s too early yet to have the first doctor’s appointment where they do the ultrasound. We haven’t gotten to that point yet,” he said.
“But that’s going to be in a few weeks, so we’re a little nervous to spend this close of, like, intimate time together around the other couples because we’re not ready to tell anyone.”
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We won’t spoil the couple’s current relationship status here, but they appeared compatible to MAFS experts Pastor Cal Roberson, Dr. Pepper Schwartz and Dr. Pia Holec.
Dr Schwartz is a sociologist, sexologist and relationship guru who has been on the show since its very first season. She works alongside marriage counsellor Pastor Cal and sex therapist and psychotherapist Dr Holec.
The new series of MAFS USA kicks off on Monday, 18th May
Gogglebox star Ken Harwood from County Durham has died aged 77 following a short illness, with Channel 4 and fans remembering the beloved TV personality as a “legend”
13:27, 15 May 2026Updated 13:28, 15 May 2026
Who was Gogglebox’s Ken? Inside star’s life after tragic death aged 77(Image: CHANNEL 4)
The Gogglebox family is mourning the devastating loss of beloved former cast member Ken, but what do we know about the cherished TV personality?
Ken made his debut on the enduring Channel 4 series in 2021 during the opening episode of series 17, appearing alongside his wife Anne – and the pair swiftly captured viewers’ hearts.
The County Durham duo graced our screens for five series before departing in 2022. Tragically, this week brought news that Ken had passed away following a brief illness, at the age of 77.
But what’s the story behind Anne and Ken’s enduring marriage? And what touching moment did Ken create during their Gogglebox debut? Here’s what we know about Ken.
Born in Consett, County Durham in 1948, Ken dedicated three decades to working as a postmaster before transitioning into local council work. He eventually stepped back from public life in 2013, reports Chronicle Live.
While details about Anne remain relatively private, she shared more than half a century of marriage with Ken. Their inaugural appearance on the programme featured a particularly heartwarming scene when Ken surprised Anne with a stunning bouquet of roses.
During the episode, Anne graciously accepted the gorgeous arrangement, exclaiming: “God they are beautiful.” Ken then revealed there were 50 roses, representing each year of their life together.
Anne responded: “You have put me to shame now with a card and roses, and I got you nothing. But you have me and that’s all you need.”
In a separate episode, Anne had viewers in stitches with her brilliant reaction to Ken’s ill-timed sneezing bout. As the sneezes began, Anne attempted to halt them by reciting a rhyme, where each sneeze supposedly brought him something special.
Anne reckoned Ken had bagged a wish, a kiss, a letter and something better. But then she drew a blank on how it continued. In the end, she quipped: “Oh hell, here we go.”
Gogglebox announced Ken’s passing on Friday (May 15). In their statement, they shared: “Ken will be dearly missed by his wife Anne, sons Simon and Ross, daughter-in-law, Elle, grandchildren Freya and Tristram, and all who knew him.”
They added: “There will be a tribute to Ken at the end of Channel 4’s episode on Gogglebox tonight.” As word spread of the devastating news, fans poured out their grief. One wrote: “Sad news.” While another commented: “Rest easy legend.”
Married at First Sight Australia star Alissa opened up about the ‘mean girl treatment’ she faced from fellow brides during Season 13
Alissa revealed she could barely get out of bed because of her co-stars’ treatment(Image: Channel 4)
A Married At First Sight Australia bride has revealed she “couldn’t get out of bed” after enduring “mean girl treatment” from fellow cast members.
The thirteenth series of the popular social experiment has finally wrapped up, but not without the couples facing one last interrogation from the relationship experts.
During Thursday’s (May 14) finale, Alissa was given the opportunity to speak out about the text message controversy involving co-stars Gia and Bec.
Fans will recall that the pair were exposed sharing vicious messages about Alissa and her husband David in a private group chat. One message suggested the couple’s relationship was fake, while another branded Alissa a “rat b****”.
In a final bid to defend herself, Alissa confronted Bec and Gia, the only two members from the group chat who attended the reunion, reports OK!.
“What did I do to you? What did I actually do to you? Mean girls, just mean girls,” she said.
When questioned about how their remarks impacted her, Alissa emotionally confessed: “I couldn’t get out of bed. If it wasn’t for him [David]. He was with me, he stood by me.”
She continued: “And he was like ‘You’re strong, you got this.’ I remember that second dinner party, I sat there and I was shaking under the table.
“My arms were shaking and that was one of the hardest days of my life. And I didn’t shed one tear, and I sat there and I called out a bully.”
The heartfelt admission left the entire cast visibly moved, with even Bec appearing distressed. Despite clashing throughout the E4 experiment, the two female contestants have since buried the hatchet.
Both Gia and Bec offered sincere apologies during the reunion episode.
Bec was first to speak up, saying: “The way I treated you was disgusting. And I vow to you and promise you that I will never, ever, ever, ever treat you or another woman without speaking to them about it [first],” before adding: “That was just unfair and I’m sincerely sorry.”
Gia then responded: “Obviously we’re leaving the experiment so you’ve no way to judge if my behaviour’s going to change, but all I can say is I’m really truly sorry for anything I’ve ever said.”
Married at First Sight Australia is streaming now on Channel 4 online
The true text messages between Steph and Danny have now been exposed following the dinner party chaos
MAFS Australia viewers witnessed yet another explosive dinner party(Image: E4)
The Married At First Sight Australia reunion is proving to be an absolute rollercoaster, with no shortage of explosive moments.
During last night’s instalment (May 12), fans of the reality phenomenon were treated to yet more fireworks when Bec unleashed a shocking revelation, alleging her ex Danny had been swapping flirty messages with fellow participant Steph.
On the programme, Steph had tied the knot with Tyson, though their romance fizzled out ahead of the final vows, while Danny similarly pulled ended his own relationship during the ultimate final commitment.
Yet behind the scenes, it emerged Danny and Steph had been messaging one another, with whispers suggesting Steph had even forwarded a bikini snap of herself.
During last night’s broadcast (May 12), word spread about the bikini images, prompting Bec to erupt: “You’re contacting my ex-husband, you’re meant to be my friend … Who do you think you are?”
Bec further alleged the duo had traded voice messages, with Danny also sending Steph love heart emojis – though he insisted he shares the symbol with everyone, reports OK!.
Eventually, a tearful Bec walked out of the Dinner Party, confessing that despite Danny shattering her heart, she remained in love with him – sentiments he did not share.
Speaking to producers on the programme, Steph confessed she felt no attraction towards Danny and would not pursue anything with him. But what really transpired between the two? The text messages between the pair have now come to light.
Woman’s Day reports that Stephanie made the first move, checking in on Danny’s wellbeing. Steph revealed she’d been “working, walking and working out man. Dating. Having fun”.
In one exchange, Steph urged Danny to attend the reunion, hoping he’d help her “go hard” on ex Tyson following their turbulent split. One message read: “I think you should come and if it gets too much, just leave. But I say that because I wanna see everyone and I’m just being selfish.”
Other messages saw them poking fun at contestants who’d left their jobs for the show, with Danny writing: “Living in dream world thinking you’ll make good coin off the back of mafs haha.”
The duo also swapped voice notes, while Steph sent Danny a series of snaps from a recent getaway, including the bikini shot that Bec had questioned.
Nine.com.au reports that Steph had previously posted the photograph herself on Instagram stories, labelling it the “bikini photo in question”, linked to a November 2025 upload. The image shows her sporting a bikini top paired with shorts.
Her caption, which accompanied various sightseeing shots plus another bikini snap, read: “Sunbaking/burnt, bug/gies, saunas, sightseeing, HPC, Hamilton.”
Speaking to Nine, Steph insisted the exchange was completely innocent, saying: “I went to Hamilton Island with work, and he said he’d never been there. I sent him a couple of photos, one of which was me in a bikini, which had already been posted on social media.”
Married At First Sight Australia can be streamed on Channel 4.
SUN, sea, sand and an Irish bar – it sounds like a dream and less of a reality to most of us living in the UK.
But for Sean and Aine Rice, this is actually the case, and the two are set to star in an upcoming episode of Channel 4‘s Escape to Florida.
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Sean and Aine Rice made the moved from Northern Ireland to FloridaCredit: Sean and Aine RiceThey’ve turned their home into a mini-resortCredit: Sean and Aine Rice
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When it comes to swapping life in the UK for a sun-soaked destination, it seems that most nowadays are heading to the likes of Portugal or far-flung Australia.
But Sean and Aine Rice who are from Northern Ireland, headed the other way across the Atlantic and settled in the USA.
The couple first called New York their home, but in the year 2000 moved to the ‘Sunshine State’ where they settled in Brandon near Tampa before heading to Apollo Beach.
Talking to Sun Travel, Sean revealed just why he loves Florida so much and reveals that of course, the weather plays a big part in it.
He said: “Any day in the year is good day in Florida, we get great weather throughout the year.
“Even when the extreme heat arrives, Florida is catered for it, so you suffer from the humidity too much.”
Their Apollo Beach home has an outdoor kitchen and boat dockCredit: Sean and Aine Rice
Sean has lived in the States for 40 years, and Aine for 27 – together they share two sons and a two-year-old granddaughter.
Both confess that moving to Florida might be a little different now from when they bought their Floridan family home 26 years ago.
Sean told us: “It was extremely cheap back then, you certainly got a lot more house for your buck back in the day.
“Our first house was around £125,000, and it’s around doubled or tripled in price now.”
Inside the couple can still enjoy the sunny viewsCredit: Sean and Aine Rice
The couple now live in Apollo Beach which is south of Tampa and is referred to as a ‘boater’s paradise’.
It has over 55 miles of canals and direct access to Tampa Bay with plenty of wildlife swimming around the bay like dolphins and manatees.
There are some disadvantages to life in Florida though as Sean and Aine found in 2024 when their home was severely flooded by Hurricane Helene.
But the couple took repairing their house in their stride and have completely transformed it.
Outdoor living and being on the water is a huge bonus to living in FloridaCredit: Sean and Aine Rice
Sean told us: “Home is what you make it, and we turned ours into a mini resort.
“Originally it was a 1,700 square foot house with over 200 feet of water front and we’ve really modernised it.
“We’ve got our own dock, an outdoor shower, a driving range, putting green, space for our kayaks, we have an outdoor kitchen, and we plan on putting a sauna out there too.
“It’s somewhere you can hang out and relax, and there are palm trees that keep you out of the sun.
“We want to enjoy all the elements and the only time we really have to leave is to go shopping – it’s pretty cool.”
As for work, the pair run the Salty Shamrock, an Irish pub in the heart of Apollo Beach.
The pair live down the road from Tampa and two-hours from the Orlando theme parksCredit: Alamy
It serves up classic American meals as well as Irish classics like chicken pot pie, sausage and mash and seaside favourite, fish and chips.
The pub hosts live events and celebrate St Patrick’s Day when it comes around in March.
There’s plenty to do as well, especially when it comes to daytrip.
He said: “When we can, we like to jump on the boat to Fort Myers, have lunch, a few drinks – I’m an avid golfer and there are hundreds of golf courses in Florida.
“I love old Florida too which are the swamps and the everglades with the alligators out there.
“We’re also two hours from Orlando where the theme parks are, and we’re close to Tampa – there’s lots more to do there now especially when it comes to the food scene.
“But mostly, I love to fish on the water.”
Aine agreed adding: “There’s always something to do here, especially if you’re an outdoorsy person from fishing to boating, exploring the state parks or playing sports – I love pickleball at the moment.”
Now they have an outdoor shower and are planning to add a saunaCredit: Sean and Aine Rice
She continued: “I never feel guilty about being indoors when the sun is out like I did in Ireland – there’s a real urge to be outside and I enjoy it very much.”
The couple return to Northern Ireland multiple times a year, so what do they miss the most about their home country?
Aine said: “I miss family and a sense of community because that’s what I feel is missing in Florida, which is why we’ve created that with our bar.”
Sean added: “The people – Irish people are unique, when tourists ask me about Ireland, I say rent a car, get lost and talk to everyone.
“We travel a lot, but I’ve never experienced any place quite like Ireland. I love the coast of Donegal and how rural it all is and that it hasn’t been commercialised.
“I always look forward to going back.”
For keen golfer Sean, there’s also a putting greenCredit: Sean and Aine Rice
For anyone keen to make the move from the UK to the US, Sean has some advice to pass on.
He said: “Florida is a great place to live, as long as you do your homework.
“I’d say to come here, you do need some sort of career in mind, or get transferred with a sister company. For someone to come out and just ‘wing it’, it would be a huge uphill battle
“It can be quite the culture shock too in the likes of Apollo Beach – it’s much less fast-paced than New York or London.
“Remember that you don’t get things like free health care, and schools are very different from the UK too.
“And down in Florida, we have a lot of Spanish and Cuban neighbours, so I’d encourage anyone moving here to try and learn Spanish – although I’ve never have.
“Life in Florida has its ups and downs of course, but I’d recommend it to this day.”
The cast and sex experts of Virgin Island spoke at the BAFTA TV Awards after the Channel 4 show was hit with criticism
Virgin Island aired for the first time last year(Image: Channel 4)
The Virgin Island cast made a huge splash when the series first aired last year and instantly became a watercooler TV show, with many left questioning whether it was groundbreaking or exploitative.
The premise of the Channel 4 programme followed 12 adult virgins as they explored intimacy in a pressure-free environment, surrounded by experts helping to guide them towards breaking down barriers.
It led to emotional breakthroughs for the brave contestants, and sparked conversations across the UK, resulting in a BAFTA TV nomination in the reality category – which was eventually won by the Celebrity Traitors.
Speaking to the Mirror and other press on the red carpet at the annual ceremony, the cast and experts took the opportunity to hit back at the critics. Addressing the backlash, sex and relationship coach Celeste Hirschman told us: “The proof is in the pudding! The transformations are unbelievable, and in the second season as well!
Dr Danielle Harel agreed: “Exactly! There’s a little bit of a discomfort to see the methods, but honestly, when people see how it helps, they’ll really fall into it, they’ll love it. They’ll really understand why it’s so important.”
“I think they were much more ready in season two, so they dove in the deep end right away. And we had a little more time, which was nice,” Celeste continued. “And we have play time! We have a BDSM specialist coming in for episode five, so watch out!”
Dr Danielle interjected: “I think people came in more ready for the show, so they were ready to move faster.”
The contestants themselves also couldn’t rave about the series enough. Emma was met with cheers when she shared: “Well, I lost my virginity, so that’s an update, I think!
“Ever since, I’ve been exploring more with intimacy and getting more comfortable with it. Finding out what I like and don’t like. I’ve built so much more confidence and I’ve opened up so many more doors! It’s incredible!
“The pros taught us how it was done, I’m a free woman now thanks to these girls! I didn’t realise that would happen on a two week retreat but these are experts, so they know what they’re doing!”
Emma revealed that she first became intimate “about six months after” filming, during a “self-love journey” in Australia.
“That’s when I started to meet people and try it a bit more. I took away a lot of skills these girls gave me and I did my own learning in my own time, and then I blossomed in the outside world.”
Jason Thompson, who was also a guest at the sex retreat, proudly flashed a bejewelled cherry pin on his suit as he added:“I’m still a virgin, cherry is still in tact. I love myself again, a whole other level of confidence, I’m just all-round happier. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made.”
A BAFTA winner broke the fourth wall during the awards’ ceremony to ask BBC bosses if they would cut footage of Gaza: Doctors Under Attack winning the prize for best film about current affairs
22:35, 10 May 2026Updated 22:35, 10 May 2026
The executive producer of a BAFTA-winning documentary took aim at the BBC during the awards ceremony(Image: Getty Images for BAFTA)
A BAFTA winner took aim at the BBC during the ceremony after a documentary about Gaza triumphed at the prestigious television awards ceremony.
The current affairs film Gaza: Doctors Under Attack picked up a major prize at the BAFTA Television Awards tonight (Sunday, 10 May). But the moment quickly turned political when executive producer Ben De Pear used his acceptance speech to question the broadcaster that originally commissioned the programme.
The one-off documentary, which features testimonies from Palestinian healthcare workers and documents attacks on medical facilities in Gaza, was initially commissioned by the BBC before being shelved over impartiality concerns. It was later broadcast by Channel 4 instead.
When he took to the stage after the film won in the current affairs category, Ben thanked the journalists involved in making the documentary before addressing the BBC directly.
He fired his parting shot, asking: “Finally, just a question for the BBC: given you dropped our film, will you drop us from the Bafta screening later tonight?”
BBC One was responsible for the TV coverage of the BAFTA Awards night, but did not air the ceremony live. The reception of each award was broadcast to the public around two hours after the actual events took place.
Ben was joined on stage by journalist Ramita Navia, who delivered a powerful speech about the findings of the investigation featured in the film.
He shared: ” Israel has killed over 47,000 children and women in Gaza. So far, Israel has bombed and targeted every single one of Gaza’s hospitals.
“It’s killed over 1,700 Palestinian doctors and health care workers. It has imprisoned over 400 in what the UN now calls the medicide. These are the findings of our investigation that the BBC paid for but refused to show.
“But we refuse to be silenced and censored. We thank Channel 4 for showing this film. Right now, there are over 80 Palestinian doctors and healthcare workers being held in detention centres that Israeli human rights groups describe as torture camps. We dedicate this award to them.”
The documentary was originally commissioned over a year ago by the BBC via their independent production company Basement Films.
However, the broadcaster delayed its release while an internal review into a separate Gaza-related programme was carried out. After that review process, the corporation ultimately decided not to air the film.
At the time, the BBC said it had concerns the programme could create “a perception of partiality that would not meet the high standards that the public rightly expect”.
The corporation also confirmed that production on the documentary had been paused while the review was was being conducted. Despite dropping the programme, the BBC said it remained committed to reporting on the conflict.
In a statement previously issued by the BBC, the broadcaster said it was “committed to covering the conflict in Gaza and has produced powerful coverage”.
Greg Davies has been called up to host the BAFTA TV Awards for the first time1
16:18, 10 May 2026Updated 16:19, 10 May 2026
Greg Davies said he’s looking for a wife(Image: Rex)
Greg Davies is back on our screens tonight as he hosts the BAFTA TV Awards for the very first time.
The 57-year old, known for co-hosting the hit comedy gameshow Taskmaster, follows in the footsteps of Graham Norton, Lenny Henry and Michael Parkinson in his MC role and said it was an opportunity he could not turn down.
“I used to watch Stephen Fry at the Baftas and marvel at his cool, intellectual charm. I won’t be bringing that,” laughed Greg ahead of the show.
The 6ft 8in funnyman shot to fame after starring as headteacher Mr Gilbert in The Inbetweeners and has since become a regular fixture on our screens, thanks to his TV roles in The Cleaner, Brassic, Cuckoo and Man Down.
Speaking as a guest at the BAFTAs last year, Greg gave a rare update on his personal life as he said he was ‘ready for a wife’.
The Taskmaster star and his co-host Alex Horne were nominated in the Entertainment category for their Channel 4 programme alongside The 1% Club, Michael McIntyre’s Big Show and Would I Lie to You?
Speaking on the red carpet, Alex said: “We’re an unlikely couple,” with Greg piping up: “That’s why we’re a good team.”
Alex then added: “And I would like to thank my wife for getting us here tonight,” before Greg joked: “I don’t have a wife so maybe I can thank Alex’s wife.”
Tom insisted he could meet his wife at the star-studded event, with Greg responding: “Maybe I will, I’m open to it. It would be so lovely, it’s been too long and I’m ready now.”
Alex simply quipped: “Lonely”,” as Greg added: “Oh god, the horrible hot lonely tears.”
The Cleaner star was in a relationship with Labour Party politician Liz Kendall between 2007 and 2015, but usually keeps his love life under wraps.
Liz told previously The Mirror about their romance: “I am not going to be the sort of politician who does all that stuff about their private life because it’s very precious to me and really important to me that I have that space that’s personal and just to me. We are not together any more but we remain really good friends.”
In the past Greg has made jokes about his disastrous single life and previously said he ‘gave up’ on romance while on The Graham Norton Show.
Greg said his grandfather once caught him in an embrace with his first girlfriend and the experience left him mortified. “It’s not for me, romance… that was the day I gave up on romance,” he explained. However, Greg counts one ex-girlfriend of changing the course of his life. His former partner, who he has not named, convinced him to switch from his teaching career to one in comedy. Speaking to The Times, he said: “I’ve been doing comedy for about 15 years now. I always wanted to do it, I just never had thick enough skin.
“A girlfriend I had while teaching was a pragmatist and always told me that if you want to do something, then go for it. So eventually I made the switch. Comedy is definitely where I’m happiest.”
Mortified Greg recalled: “I met Janet Ellis once in a fish and chip shop. I used to have a terrible crush on her, all throughout my childhood. Then I finally met her and said something humiliating, I think chips-based, that guaranteed I would never end up in the relationship I craved.” He added: “I met her daughter Sophie on a show once and told her I fancied her mum and she rolled her eyes and said ‘everyone does’.”
While he was known for playing doting dad Ken in the sitcom Cuckoo, the actor himself does not have any children. He does, however, have lots of experience looking after kids as he was a secondary school drama and English teacher for 13 years before moving into comedy.
That’s not Greg’s only transformation. In recent years the funnyman has admitted to using Ozempic to lose weight after receiving concerning health news from his doctor.
The host claimed to have lost three stone – and named the diabetic medication in an interview. Ozempic is not designed as a weight loss drug and is used instead as a treatment for type 2 diabetes in adults – however, many patients have experienced weight loss as a side effect.
He told The Times: “[I] lost three stone on the old Ozempic, in about four months, before putting most of it back on.” The interview also notes that his doctor warned him that if he was shorter, he would “look obese” – and that he is now considering turning to fasting in an attempt to maintain his weight.
Noting that he is not concerned about ageing, he added: “I think that’s probably good in my game, isn’t it?”
