Early into my tenure as a new line-dancing enthusiast, I found myself in Chatsworth, alone on a Friday night. I was looking for action — the country dance kind. It was not yet dusk when I entered the Cowboy Palace Saloon, which hosts line dancing on most nights. Suddenly, L.A. felt very far away. In the parking lot, men were flicking cigarettes into the hot summer air. The space was almost dreamlike, with leather boots hanging above the bar table. American flags strung up. A cue ball clattered on a pool table.
In the bar area, I stumbled upon a crowd in denim vests and leather-soled boots dancing in unison. They were line dancing, warming up the dance floor before the live band started their set. A man told me that on any given Friday night, this is the wildest bar in America. I believed him.
The appeal of line dancing is simple: It’s a partnerless dance. And still, it naturally fosters community. Scared? Saddle up anyway. If you fumble, the line will keep moving — feet brushing, stomping, rocking it back — and soon enough, you’ll find your rhythm again.
In Los Angeles, line dancing has a storied legacy. “In the early ‘90s, there used to be country dance bars all over L.A.,” says Sean Monaghan, one of the founders of queer line dancing night Stud Country. While the popularity of line dancing has seen dips since then, the scene is once again experiencing a revival, partly due to the 2021 closure of country western institution Oil Can Harry’s in Studio City. Deeply feeling its absence, the community filled the void with pop-up line dancing nights scattered across L.A.
”People want to share their joy,” Monaghan says of these gathering spaces.
About This Guide
Our journalists independently visited every spot recommended in this guide. We do not accept free meals or experiences. What should we check out next? Send ideas to [email protected].
No one is born a cowboy; they become one. You can see that in the zeitgeist. Pop stars like Chappell Roan, Post Malone and Beyoncé are making country albums and singles. Sabrina Carpenter released a line-dancing tutorial to accompany her hit song “Man Child.” Cowboy boots and camouflage have become fashionable in the L.A. nightlife scene too, littered across wine bars and nightclubs. Queer-themed line-dancing nights are popping up at queer bars across the city, from Dude Ranch at Micky’s WeHo to Hogtied at Precinct. Line-dancing has experienced a Gen-Z makeover in L.A. with TikToks showing line dancers accessorized with Labubus.
Today you can try line dancing at several country western bars around town, each one as eclectic and unique as the dances themselves. Each of these events on the dance floor will have you feeling like you’ve been teleported to a rollicking barn party — and may just make you want to abandon your life for the Old West.
A GRIEVING mum has paid a heartbreaking tribute to her seven year-old-daughter who tragically died just days after she was seen “running and dancing.”
Tasmine Nichols, 28, has been left devastated following the death of her “beautiful and funny little girl.”
Bonnie Haydon’s family, from Plymouth, had to face the unimaginable and turn off their seven-year-old daughter’s life machine in August.
Tasmine explained that Bonnie had been in and out of Derriford Hospital since July.
Bonnie was diagnosed with asthma at a very young age but “had been doing fine over the years” until this year, according to her mum.
She was medicated for the asthma and had an inhaler, but was described as a happy child that was always full of energy.
The young girl was on her second admission on August 10 and was sent home, however, tragedy struck just 12 days later.
The concerned mother took her daughter straight back to hospital.
Tasmine explained that on August 25, Bonnie seemed full of life and was behaving like a normal, energetic seven-year-old.
She said: “She was running around the hospital playing, dancing and singing everything a child would do.
“But the next day she was placed into an induced coma in the early hours.”
Tasmine went on to tell PlymouthLive that at first she was told they were just going to sedate Bonnie, but soon after, she was informed that her daughter was going to be placed into a coma.
This was a coma that Bonnie would tragically never come out of.
She was later rushed to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children where Tasmine explained she was doing well, until 9am on August 27.
After being rushed in for a CT scan, Tasmine was delivered the devastating news that her daughter’s brain had no activity.
The following day, Bonnie was taken for an MRI where it was confirmed that the little girl had no brain activity at all.
In the early hours of August 29, the family had to face the unimaginable, and let Bonnie go.
In the wake of her death, family friend Charlie Wilkinson has set up a GoFundMefundraiser to help support the family during this terrible time.
Charlie explained that Tasmine is facing every parent’s worst nightmare, planning a funeral for her child.
Writing on the fundraising page, Charlie said: “Bonnie deserves the most beautiful and special send off and we want to help take that stress away so her family can focus on saying goodbye.
“Every single penny will go towards giving Bonnie the most stunning and special day, one that shows just how loved she was and always will be.
“She will forever be seven, forever loved, and forever missed.”
Kristian Nairn said he is having treatment and assured fans “I’m OK”
Game of Thrones actor Kristian Nairn has pulled out of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing, just days after the line-up was announced, saying he’s been struggling with “a high level of stress and a little bit of grief”.
Nairn, 49, is best known for playing Hodor – the guileless servant of House Stark – in HBO’s fantasy drama.
He told his Instagram followers that after the line-up announcement last week, his problems had “manifested physically” for the first time and had caused “a spike in my vitals as an area of concern”.
Actor Lewis Cope, best known for playing Nicky Milligan in ITV’s Emmerdale, will replace Nairn on this year’s show.
Getty Images
Nairn played Hodor in the first four seasons of Game of Thrones
Ahead of the announcement of Cope as Nairn’s replacement, Nairn wrote: “I’m gutted. I was really looking forward to taking part in this.”
Nairn is also known for playing Wee John Feeney in the US TV period comedy drama Our Flag Means Death, and is a house music DJ.
Last Friday, the 6ft 10in Northern Irishman became the 15th and final contestant to be unveiled for this year’s Strictly.
Medical check
“I’ve been given a wonderful opportunity to be part of the Strictly Come Dancing family, as you may know,” he said in an Instagram video on Thursday.
“Sadly, I’m having to withdraw from this year’s show. There’s been such a response, I definitely want to share why. Like so many people at the minute, I’ve been dealing with a high level of stress and a little bit of grief, if I’m going to be really real.
“I’ve always been my mother’s son and I’ve always powered through things like this in the past. I think I’ve got a pretty healthy attitude towards stuff like this. Well, I thought I did, at least.
“But for the first time it’s manifested physically and has caused a spike in my vitals as sort of an area of concern.
Nairn was revealed as a Strictly contestant on Gary Davies’s BBC Radio 2 show on Friday
“I am a big guy, always have been, ever since I set foot on this Earth, so I take my health very seriously, and I do see my doctor all the time, and I was checked for the show two weeks before [the announcement] and everything was fine, so he was happy for me to take part.
“Please know I’m OK. I’m under treatment already, and my doctor isn’t concerned. After two, maybe three weeks, I’ll be pretty much back to normal, but sadly… it’s not going to be in time for all the training and everything like that.”
‘Taking it easy’
Nairn went on to say he had been “100% supported” by producers and others on the show.
“I’m going to be taking it easy for now, and I’ll be able to return to work very shortly.”
He added: “We live in strange, crazy times at the moment. So without being preachy, please look after yourself. Don’t ignore what’s going on inside your head.
“This is something I haven’t dealt with before, so this has really come as a surprise for me. I always thought I had this.”
He asked people not to worry about him, saying: “I’ve totally got this.”
When his participation was announced last Friday, he said taking part in the dance contest would be “a huge challenge for me physically, but I’m ready to rise to it.”
In a statement from the BBC on Thursday, his withdrawal was put down to “unexpected medical reasons”.
The show’s executive producer Sarah James said: “We’ve absolutely loved getting to know Kristian in this short time, and he has all the makings of a brilliant Strictly Come Dancing contestant.
“We’re incredibly sorry to lose him from this year’s series and we all wish him a speedy recovery.”
Strictly Come Dancing star Kristian Nairn has quit the BBC show just a week into training – as sources now reveal to us why he decided to leave the programme
17:18, 21 Aug 2025Updated 17:18, 21 Aug 2025
Game of Thrones star Kristian Nairn has quit Strictly due to medical reasons (Image: BBC)
The Game of Thrones actor and DJ was confirmed today to not be taking on the Latin and ballroom competition for an undisclosed health complaint. Kristian will be replaced by another celebrity, due to be announced later today.
He said in a statement: “With a heavy heart, I have to step back from this season of Strictly Come Dancing due to unexpected medical reasons. I was truly looking forward to the journey, and I’m deeply sorry to disappoint anyone who was looking forward to seeing me on the dance floor. Thank you all for your support, and I will be back on my feet very soon, in every sense. Love to all, Kristian.”
Krstian said Strictly would be a “huge challenge”(Image: John Lamparski/Getty Images)
Sarah James, Executive Producer, BBC Studios, added in a statement: “We’ve absolutely loved getting to know Kristian in this short time, and he has all the makings of a brilliant Strictly Come Dancing contestant. We’re incredibly sorry to lose him from this year’s series and we all wish him a speedy recovery.”
Now, a source has revealed to The Mirror just why Kristian had quit the competition so early into training. A BBC source told us: “Kristian sadly just wasn’t up to competing on Strictly and so he had to pull out.
“The celebrities have not been paired up yet but he had a couple sessions doing the group number and they were a real shock to the system. I think by his own admission he found them a struggle and may have been surprised how much of a challenge it was physically for him. He wasn’t feeling great and the best option for everyone was for him to leave the show at this stage. It has been a bit of a scramble but we have got a replacement.”
When he was announced for the show, Kristian said he was excited for the physical challenge. He said: This will be a huge challenge for me physically, but I’m ready to rise to it! It’s a surreal and wonderful opportunity to shed one of my left feet!”
The new celebrity joining Strictly Come Dancing will be announced on Thursday’s (21.08.25) episode of The One Show. Strictly will return in just a few weeks time – with the celebrities and their professional dance partners being announced in a special launch show.
BAD Bunny fans were left gobsmacked after spotting an A-List movie star at the singer’s latest gig.
Fellow concert-goers at the vocalist’s home-town gig in Puerto Rico did a double take after the Mad Men alum was seen in the crowd.
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An A List movie star has been spotted at singer Bad Bunny’s residency in Puerto RicoCredit: AFP
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They donned a white bucket hat and trainers as they attended the gigCredit: TikTok/@ariannagdavis
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Jon Hamm was seen boogying around in scenes which left fans shockedCredit: TikTok/@ariannagdavis
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Bad Bunny was performing at the Jose Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San JuanCredit: TikTok/@ariannagdavis
Golden Globe award winner Jon Hamm donned a white and blue patterned shirt paired with a white bucket hat and trainers for the lengthy show at the Jose Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan.
Part of his No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí residency, Bad Bunny‘s VIP guest was seen boogying with a glass of drink in hand.
The Baby Driver actor, 54, then busted out a series of energetic dance moves, throwing his right arm in the air, as he embraced the tunes.
His appearance was captured on TikTok where one user confessed: “Seeing Jon Hamm vibing out at the Bad Bunny concert in Puerto Rico was not on my 2025 bingo card.”
They added: “A whole vibe” before hailing him “an icon.”
Another TikTok user confessed: “I can’t stop watching this video.”
One put: “He’s living his best life” as a fan added: “This man is everything I expected him to be.”
A fan then surmised: “Just another reason to love him.”
SUPER FAN
Jon has previously gushed over the Monaco hitmaker and his talents – and spoken publicly about his plans to head to the gigs.
The Morning Show’s Victoria Tate reveals filming secrets for upcoming fourth season including if Jon Hamm is returning
The Morning Show star told Today ahead of the August show: “We’re hoping to go to Puerto Rico.
“I’m excited because he’s doing this residency where he’s doing a month and a half of shows in Puerto Rico.
“First of all, I think it’s really cool that he’s going back to his home, to really give back to the fans.
“He’s reserving the first four, five or 10 shows, or whatever it is, for only residents of Puerto Rico, which is so cool.”
Meanwhile, on a previous Saturday Night Live episode, he added of the chart star: “He’s a really nice guy.
“And he’s funny. And he’s fun and his music is awesome.
“You can’t listen to his music and not smile. I just love his story.
“He’s a really nice guy. He’s funny.”
He then told how the music icon had given him the nickame Jon Jamón which is the Spanish translation of his name.
Meanwhile, Jon isn’t Bad Bunny’s sole famous fan.
Recently, he sparked a bromance with LeBron James as they headed to a party after another of his home town gigs.
At the time, a source told the US Sun of Bad Bunny’s aims for the shows and said: “It’s an elaborate thing where he is making the tickets available at a low price, you have to prove you’re a fan and a Puerto Rican resident, like people have to get the tickets at the supermarket he worked at when he was a kid.”
They added: “LeBron was at the concert, there were a bunch of videos of them together, but before that, they had hung out and played golf together all day.”
The insider added that the NBA star is still a newbie at golfing and has been enjoying the sport lately.
They added: “After all that they partied their a**es off at the St Regis property nearby with a lot of beautiful women.”
“They have this fun new bromance energy going on.”
BUNNY CAREER
Bad Bunny has collaborated with artists including J Balvin, Ozuna, Farruko, El Alfa, Arcángel, and Daddy Yankee.
He’s also made guest appearances on songs by Drake, Dua Lipa, Cardi B, Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, and Will Smith.
He rose to fame almost immediately after he released “Soy Peor” (“I’m Worse”) in 2016.
While speaking to Rolling Stone, the musician described himself as being a wallflower, though he developed a reputation at school for coming up with creative raps.
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Jon was hailed as ‘living his best life’ at the event after being captured on TikTokCredit: TikTok/@ariannagdavis
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JON has previously spoken of his appreciation for the chart starCredit: AFP
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He played Don Draper in Mad MenCredit: Lionsgate
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He is on stage for his No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí residencyCredit: AFP
The BBC is said to have called in the Metropolitan Police after lawyers began an inquiry into the hit dance competition Strictly Come Dancing before the new series airs
Dani Dyer was announced as the second celebrity to be taking part in this year’s Strictly Come DancingCredit: PA
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Dani won Love Island alongside Jack Fincham in 2018Credit: ITV
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Dani is the daughter of actor Danny DyerCredit: BBC
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Dani previously spoke about her dancing experience in her 2019 book
Dani, 29, shot to fame when she won Love Island in 2018 – with her new reality stint very different to the dating show.
The daughter of EastEnders actor Danny Dyer will waltz her way around the ballroom in September when she joins the cast of the hit series.
But now it has been revealed that in an unearthed passage from her autobiography, Dani boasted about being a “qualified dancer”.
She said in her 2019 book that she would put “qualified dancer” under the list of qualifications on her CV.
Writing in her book, which came out six years ago, Dani wrote about how she went to theatre school at weekends from the age of 2 to 14.
“It was called O’Farrell’s Stage School and I was a really good little dancer,” she said.
Dani added: “I’m not a bad singer but it was the dance stuff I loved more – jazz, tap, ballet, modern. I’d get home and prance around the house.”
Elsewhere in the book she writes up a mock CV where she states her qualifications include: “Qualified dancer and pretty good at singing (especially Dua Lipa or Ariana Grande at the top of her voice while cleaning the kitchen).”
‘I’D BE HAPPY TO BE WHISKED AROUND’
She also spoke about Strictly in her book, saying how she would jump at the chance of being asked to compete on the hit reality dancing competition.
“IfStrictly Come Dancingwant to give me a call I’d also be happy to be whisked around the dance floor,” she penned at the time.
Strictly reveals the next two celebrities joining the 2025 series on The Scott Mills BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show
At the time of her book coming out, Dani was all loved up with then-beau Jack Fincham, and she said of Strictly: “The only thing I’d be worried about would be the curse.”
In her book from several years ago, Dani also swooned about her bond with Shirley Ballas.
Bonding with her on a trek for Comic Relief, Dani said she was “just the most graceful, lovely person”.
But despite admitting her prior dance experience, fans are still excited to see Dani storm the ballroom.
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Fans are excited for Dani to waltz her way onto the dance floor next monthCredit: Instagram/danidyerxx
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Dani will star alongside big names like La Voix, George Clarke and Ellie Goldstein in this year’s series of StrictlyCredit: Mark Hayman – Commissioned by The Sun
Reacting to the news of Dani being confirmed for the series, one person on X said: “Woooo I love Dani!!!”
“Whoop I love Dani! She’ll be awesome,” penned a second.
The Sun has contacted Strictly for comment but they did not immediately respond.
SHOWBIZ BACKGROUND SCRUTINY
Dani is not the only star in Strictly history to have had their background in the world of showbiz scrutinised.
Tasha Ghouri, also from Love Island, had her background in dance.
The star who appeared on the series last year faced a backlash for being a trained dancer and branded the show a “fix” because they signed her up.
Actress Sarah Hadland and JLS’ JB Gill were also accused of having advantages on the show because of their backgrounds and prior careers.
But despite all of their experience, nor Tasha, Sarah or JB won the show.
Model Ellie Goldstein, who has Down syndrome, was then the seventh celebrity revealed to be waltzing their way onto the dance floor next month, in the groundbreaking signing.
RuPaul‘s Drag Race UK star La Voix was then the next confirmed star to be announced.
And former England rugby union player and captain Chris Robshaw has also been confirmed this week.
Strictly 2025 rumoured line-up
The following stars are rumoured to be taking part in Strictly – plus scroll to see who has been confirmed
Angellica Bell: A familiar face on British television, Angellica is a seasoned TV presenter known for her work on shows like CBBC and The One Show. She’s no stranger to reality TV, having recently appeared on Celebrity Big Brother.
Paul C. Brunson: The charismatic relationship expert and matchmaker from Married At First Sight UK, Paul is known for his insightful advice and warm personality. Swapping the sofa for the samba, he’s tipped to bring a touch of class and intelligence to the competition.
Vicky Pattison: A reality TV stalwart who first found fame on Geordie Shore, Vicky has successfully transitioned into a presenter and author. Having supported her friend Pete Wicks on the show last year, it seems she’s ready to put on her own dancing shoes.
Ashley Cain: Former footballer and reality TV star from Ex on the Beach, Ashley has more recently become known for his incredible charity work and campaigning.
Stacey Solomon: Known for her down-to-earth charm and successful BBC shows like Sort Your Life Out, fans are eager to see if she can translate her infectious energy to the ballroom.
Georgia Toffolo: Best known as “Toff” from Made in Chelsea and for winning I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! in 2017, Georgia is a seasoned reality TV star.
Thomas Skinner: The lively entrepreneur who became a fan favourite on The Apprentice in 2019, Thomas is known for his larger-than-life personality and catchphrase “Bosh!”. Despite admitting to no dancing experience, he’s reportedly “up for giving it his best shot.”
Tom Parker Bowles: The renowned food writer and critic, and son of Queen Camilla, is a surprising but intriguing name on the rumour list. A regular on MasterChef, it remains to be seen if his culinary precision translates to ballroom finesse.
Sir Mo Farah: The legendary Olympic long-distance runner is considered a national treasure.
Balvinder Sopal: The talented actress known for her role as Suki Panesar in EastEnders, Balvinder would follow a long line of successful soap stars on Strictly.
Jake Brown: The winner of The Traitors series three, Jake’s name has emerged as a potential contestant.
Stefan Dennis: The actor, 66, has played six-times married Ramsay Street lothario Paul Robinson since the first episode in 1985 and now the soap is coming to an end, his schedule is clear.
Confirmed Strictly 2025 stars:
Ellie Goldstein – Vogue cover model Ellie is the first contestant with Down syndrome to take part in a full Strictly series. As well as her modelling work, she is known for CBBC.
George Clarke – Social media star George was the sixth person to be revealed. The influencer isn’t the first YouTube star to appear, and follows Saffron Barker and Joe Suggs,
Balvinder Sopal – The soap star is the latest EastEnders cast member to sign up to the show. The actress is known for playing Walford matriarch Suki Panesar.
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink: The former Premier League football striker, famous for his time at Leeds and Chelsea, is another sporting name being linked.
Alex Kingston – Actress Alex has joined the line-up and his hoping to emulate the success of her friend Sarah Hadland last year. She is best known for shows like Doctor Who, EastEnders and ER.
Dani Dyer: Rising to fame as the winner of Love Island in 2018, Dani has remained in the public eye with various TV appearances. The daughter of actor Danny Dyer, she’s reportedly agreed to take part.
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey: Known as “Nitro” from the BBC’s Gladiators reboot and a former Team GB sprinter, Harry has already shown off some moves on the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special.
The falls guy – Harry Leach is moved by a humbling adventure in an unforgettable African land when he experiences the intoxicating, chaotic charm of Ghana
Harry was blown away by his adventure in Ghana
Thousands of fruit bats whirled in a tornado, spiralling 300ft above as Ghana’s tallest waterfall crashed in a thunderous beat beside me – its mist cooling the heat on my skin.
We had hiked through a sweaty tropical forest to get here – ducking under vines, stepping over startled reptiles, brushing off bold insects, crossing nine clanging bridges. Each footstep sank into rich, red earth as the path narrowed underfoot and the sound of falling water grew louder.
Then, suddenly, the trees parted and there it was – Ghana’s famous Wli Waterfalls, the tallest in West Africa. Wild and beautiful. The bats squeaked as the 262ft-high fall poured down a jagged cliff into a pool over which butterflies scattered, their wings glowing in flecks of sunlight.
The noise was deafening, and yet the moment seemed utterly still.
If this were Europe, a sea of phones would block the view. But here, deep in Ghana’s Volta Region, it was just us and nature – raw and unspoilt. The fall’s soft waves didn’t just cool my body, they stripped back life’s pressures. This wasn’t just a trip; it was unfiltered adventure.
I was travelling to West Africa with Intrepid Travel, a firm that threads you into the fabric of Ghana as well as taking you way off the beaten track. That was evident that very morning when we broke bread with a family living in Liati Wote – a beautiful, remote village hugging the Ghana-Togo border. Our hosts welcomed us with open arms in the way I quickly learned all Ghanaians do: with a warmth and effortless generosity that is rare to find wherever you go in the world.
As goats wandered past, and the sun beat down, we chatted about sport, family, our passions, as mighty Mount Afadjato leaned over us. “Everything is focused on each other,” said 16-year-old Elizabeth, while her sister Precious served omelettes fresh from the pan.
She spoke of her yearning to explore Accra, Ghana’s capital, but her love for her village was deep, palpable. I understood why. In this community of just 600, everyone plays a part. Later we met Charles, tending his farm. Together we planted corn and watched him work his charcoal ovens – delicate, smoky earth mounds that collapse if oxygen sneaks in.
Elsewhere, Emmanuel, the village’s chief farmer and palm wine-maker since 1991, tapped sap from a fallen palm tree. I drank it sharp and fresh, then again later when it was fermented, sweet and dizzying. That night, we rejoined our hosts to dine in their home. We shared plates of jollof (rice, vegetables and/or meat), akple (fermented dough balls), watermelon, and grilled drumsticks.
Unfermented palm wine can be drank straight from the tree
It was the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like you have slipped into someone else’s life… just for a moment.
As we laughed and sang together, including a slightly off-key rendition of Wonderwall, conversation paused when the beat of drums began to creep through an open window.
We broke away from the table, unable to ignore it any longer. Outside, a group of 30 was rehearsing an Ewe drumming performance. The ensemble had packed up to leave for a funeral, but then graciously unpacked to play once more, just for us.
We jived under stars to their captivating tempo because, in Ghana, when the beat calls, you don’t just listen – you follow it. The next morning, I danced again, this time with a machete in my hand at the village of Tafi Atome. I was taught the “hunter’s dance” by the Akpi performers, as they pounded drums behind a statue with a lit cigarette hanging from its stone lips.
“They’re showing their strength in the forest with this performance,” said Isaac, our endlessly insightful guide and native Ghanaian who knows his country inside out. Behind us, monkeys stirred. “They live together with the people,” he explained.
Intrepid driver Eric took the group through Volta village
After spicy snails and grilled fish at Afrikiko River Front Resort, we cruised down the shimmering Volta River – part of Lake Volta, the largest artificial reservoir in the world at 3,283 square miles – completely relaxed. Then we moved on to the lively town of Elmina, where we checked into charming hilltop cabins at Golden Hill Parker Hotel, above Ghana’s largest fish market.
After sunrise, we ventured through its heart. Women balancing bowls of fish on their heads encouraged us to dance with them, smiling ear-to-ear, as traders in every direction shouted prices over crates of squid and the bleeding sharks on the wet concrete.
It was loud, chaotic, intoxicating: Ghana at its most tactile and authentic. But nothing felt more real than our visit to Cape Coast Castle. Inside the silent dungeons, history closed in from every side. No light or airflow. Just thick stone walls and the memory of thousands of slaves held captive before being trafficked as human cargo.
Our guide Kojo spoke with the gravity of someone who had told this story too many times, yet aware it must never stop being told. “It cannot be repeated,” he said simply, standing by the plaque that now marks the “Door of No Return” –once the last threshold before Africans were forced onto ships in the dark days of the transatlantic slave trade.
My final days in Ghana unfolded in the busy and electric capital Accra. One minute you’re weaving through the packed Osu night market, eating smoked fish and waakye (rice and beans), next you’re standing in a workshop staring at a coffin shaped like a Nokia mobile phone. That was Eric’s creation – a master craftsman of fantasy coffins. From sneakers to Club beer bottles, he carves caskets that reflect lives once lived.
In Ghana, death isn’t feared, it is a “celebration”, said Eric. Funerals honour those lost with colour, music and flair. What struck me most about this country wasn’t any one place. It wasn’t even the food – although I’d fly back in a heartbeat for palm nut soup or “red red”.
It was the way people let us in; their smiles; how they embraced us into their world and homes. It was truly humbling.
On my final day, I stood in the impoverished Jamestown, watching children play basketball near a beautiful lighthouse. A battered speaker played Afrobeats as we moved through tiny streets, when a barefoot girl spun and waved with a grin so infectious, it made me smile too.
This is why you travel. Not for the Instagram pictures, but for the people who turn the unfamiliar into something unforgettable. “Kwame is your Ghanaian name,” Isaac said after finding out I was born on a Saturday. “Take this with you.”
A childhood friend of Lucy Letby has revealed the serial baby killer attended her wedding day while she was on police bail after being granted ‘special permission’ to go
Liam McInerney Content Editor
23:00, 03 Aug 2025
Lucy Letby letting loose on the dance floor while supposedly on police bail (Image: ITV)
A childhood friend of Lucy Letby made a shocking revelation after showing off pictures of the baby killer at her wedding – while she was on police bail.
Letby was first arrested in July of 2018 on suspicion of murdering eight babies. She was officially charged in November 2020 before being found guilty across two trials of murdering seven babies and attempting to murder seven more. Dawn Howe, who went to Aylestone Secondary School in Hereford with Letby, brought out a stash of photos during a new ITV documentary called Lucy Letby: Beyond Reasonable Doubt?
Speaking on the documentary, Dawn said: “Definitely got some holiday snaps, birthdays, holidays I’ve forgotten we even had. The wedding photos are definitely my favourite.”
Laughing, she added: “There is Lucy at my wedding. I am just so glad she could be there because it was while she was on bail, she had to get special permission to be allowed to come from the police.”
Letby (right) pictured smiling during her friend Dawn’s big day (Image: ITV)
The shocking photo shows Letby, wearing a red top and grey skirt, beaming while others alongside her clap on the dance floor.
Another image shows a just-married Dawn walking past Letby, who is throwing confetti in the air.
Dawn and Lucy met as teenagers and reflecting on the wedding snaps, she said: “Shortly after this she was held in custody so… I don’t think Lucy has seen these.”
Speaking about how she reacted when her friend was arrested before her big day, she said: “I watched it all unfold every step of the way. I just couldn’t believe it. It was beyond belief that this could be happening.”
And later in the programme, Dawn features once again. She is seen driving to Letby’s former school, where they spent most of their adolescence together.
Out of their friendship group, she said Letby was the only one who had a clear career path, and during her A-levels, she was eager to one day “be a nurse and deal with really poorly babies”.
Dawn shared photos showing Letby at her special day (Image: ITV)
And speaking on camera, she said: “We were here and then university and then a few years after university is when she is supposed to have gone off on this killing spree…”
Dawn was working when Letby’s guilty verdict was announced in August 2023 and she described being “dumbfounded” when she heard the news.
Her immediate thought was what happened next. She remembered thinking: “She can’t just spend the rest of her life in prison.”
She is now serving 15 whole-life sentences (Image: PA)
Letby lost two attempts last year to challenge her convictions at the Court of Appeals. Her legal team meanwhile, led by barrister Mark McDonald, also submitted evidence from a panel of international experts to the Criminal Cases Review Commission in April, in an attempt to have her convictions overturned.
Dawn supported Letby throughout the trial and is continuing to do so now, but she said she felt guilt for being free while her friend was serving 15 whole-life sentences.
She concluded: “I am living a life Lucy should be living beside me in parallel. We should both be having families and we both bought our houses and we were looking forward to the next chapter of our lives and then all this happened.
Lucy Letby pictured with her childhood pal Dawn Howe(Image: ITV)
“It is just… there is so much guilt that I am sort of living a life that Lucy should also be living.”
Cheshire Police were contacted regarding claims made in this story but they chose not to comment.
Lucy Letby: Beyond Reasonable Doubt? will air on ITV1 at 10.20pm on Sunday August 3.
A Strictly Come Dancing pro dancer has been inundated with support after she shared a sweet relationship update with her fans on social media
Strictly Come Dancing star Lauren Oakley has been inundated with love after she posted a heartfelt relationship update. The 34-year-old professional dancer, who joined the Strictly family in 2022, has quickly danced her way into the hearts of viewers nationwide.
Despite not being paired with a celebrity in her debut year, Lauren’s second season saw her step out with journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy and reach the final with JB Gill in 2024, stepping in for Amy Dowden due to health reasons.
Amy is just one of the many voices offering their support as Lauren gave fans a glimpse into her romantic life. With a collection of sweet snaps alongside her husband Maximiliano, Lauren penned: “10 years with you by my side. The moment we spoke, my world changed forever. Thank you for teaching me what real love is, and thank you for keeping my heart safe.”
Lauren gave fans an adorable look into her relationship as she celebrated ten years(Image: Instagram/Lauren Oakley)
Amy chimed in with “Gorgeous pics,” while fellow ‘Strictly’ professionals Luba Mushtuk and Carlos Gu expressed their affection with heart emojis.
‘Strictly’ star Tasha Ghouri added her own heart emojis, and Jowita Przystal shared: “Happy 10 years guys x,” reports Edinburgh Live.
Fans were quick to join the celebration, with one saying: “Congratulations you two gorgeous people and here’s to the next 10 years and the 10 after that then repeat repeat xx.”
Another fan gushed: “Such a beautiful couple! here’s to many more years of happiness together!”
Lauren joined Strictly in 2022(Image: PA)
A third admirer commented: “Beautiful young couples happy anniversary 10th. Good memories photos love it.”
Lauren and Max tied the knot in September 2019, with the dancer expressing at the time: “We had an absolutely magical day full of sunshine, and we hope everyone enjoyed it as much as we did.
“We felt so at home around all of our loved ones and the wedding was exactly how we wanted it to be, comfortable, relaxed and like a huge house party in the English countryside… Only in a big white dress!”
Last year, Lauren posted a touching tribute to her husband on Instagram, stating: “This gorgeous husband of mine is always singing my praises, so it’s about time I shouted to the world about him.
The couple married in 2019(Image: Instagram/Lauren Oakley)
“@maximontes93 finished and submitted his last assignment for his degree last night. A degree that he’s been working towards with @theopenuniversity for 5+ years.
“Whilst working a full time job, whilst fulfilling passion projects (studying Japanese, looking after our lovely little house, our plants and our fur babies), whilst building a life and finding his feet on the other side of the world with me, whilst still finding time to gym and run and whatever else was the fitness fad of the month… and whilst supporting me through my career too.
“I couldn’t be prouder. Well done my everything. You’ll probably hate this post ’cause you’re the loveliest, calmest, kind hearted, humble man… but I kinda wanna tell everyone how wonderful I think you are. Te amo.”
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is only a few months away and rumours are already rife about who will be strutting their stuff in sequins on the much-loved BBC series
The new series of Strictly Come Dancing is only a few months away
It seems like only yesterday that Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell waltzed away with the Glitterball trophy, but the new series of Strictly Come Dancing is only a few months away. The BBC often reveals its line-up of celebrity contestants in August, but that hans’t stopped the rumour mill from churning.
A whole host of famous faces are said to be on the top of producers’ lists this year, including Sort Your Life Out star, Stacey Solomon, and Love Island winner, Dani Dyer, who recently tied the knot with West Ham player, Jarrod Bowen. So, as we wait and see who will be strutting their stuff on the dance floor when the new series kicks off in September, here’s the rumoured line-up, starting with mum-of-five, and DIY enthusiast Stacey Solomon…
Stacey Solomon could be strutting her stuff on Strictly Come Dancing this year(Image: Getty Images for BAFTA)
Stacey Solomon
Stacey is among many names said to be lined up for Strictly. The Sort Your Life Out star, 35, has a whole host of reality TV shows under her belt, including I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!, which she won.
The plucky DIY enthusiast also has a fly-on-the-wall show with husband, Joe Swash called Stacey and Joe. In the series, filmed in Pickle Cottage, the pair navigate marriage and parenthood with their combined brood of six kids.
Dani Dyer recently got married to West Ham star, Jarrod Bown(Image: Getty Images for BAFTA)
Dani Dyer
Fresh from her marriage to West Ham star, Jarrod Bowen, Danny Dyer’s daughter, Dani, could be coming to Strictly. The mum-of-three won Love Island and has a popular podcast with her famous dad in which they discuss all manner of things with refreshing honesty.
Dani, 28, gained a huge following after Love Island and as a proud parent of three kids, including twin girls, Summer and Star, she would be a great addition to the show as a working mum.
Paul C. Brunson is said to be the ‘ideal tonic’ for Strictly(Image: We Need To Talk/Youtube)
Paul C. Brunson
Married At First Sight guru, Paul C. Brunson, 50, is a huge hit with fans after dishing out advice on the popular Channel 4 dating show. He is also has a successful podcast, We Need To Talk, in which he interviews a host of celebrities, who wear their hearts on their sleeves.
Referring to the scandals that have plagued Strictly in recent years, a source told The Sun: “Paul would be the ideal tonic to the dark clouds over Strictly as he’s clean-cut, very intelligent and has no scandals to worry about.”
Geordie Shore star, Vicky Pattison-Ramadan, 37, is also rumoured to be in the line-up
Vicky Pattison- Ramadan
Geordie Shore star, Vicky, 37, is also rumoured to be in the line-up and has a load of experience on TV. Since shooting to fame on Geordie Shore, she has carved out a successful career, appearing on shows, including I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!, which she won in 2015.
She got married to husband Ercan Ramadan last year in two ceremonies, including a lavish bash in Italy, which was attended by the couple’s famous pals.
Ex On The Beach star, Ashley Cain, 34, could be slipping into some sequins(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Children With Cancer UK)
Ashley Cain
Ex On The Beach star, Ashley Cain, 34, could also be slipping into sequins in September. The former footballer, who has load of reality TV experience, is said to have also impressed BBC bosses with his presenting work.
A source told The Mirror: “He’s a proper character with a very interesting background that looks the part. He would be a great addition to the Strictly line-up. He’s presented a couple of BBC shows and has really impressed.”
Queen Camilla’s son, Tom Parker-Bowles, 50 is said to be top of Strictly bosses’ wish lists(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Tom Parker-Bowles
Queen Camilla’s son, Tom, 50 is said to be top of Strictly bosses’ wish lists. The food critic has published a number of books, including titles for posh shop, Fortnum and Mason.
Tom is the Queen’s oldest child child from her first marriage to retired Army officer Andrew Parker-Bowles.
Angellica Bell says her friends have recommended she go on Strictly(Image: PA)
Angellica Bell
Fresh from her stint on Celebrity Big Brother earlier this year, Kids TV star, Angellica, 49, could be lining up for some more screen time.
The TV presenter has expressed her interest in taking part in Strictly, having recently told The Sun: “So people have done it and say it’s really good. So when I’ve had, like, in-depth conversations with people who are my friends and they say it’s great, I would definitely go from their recommendation. And they always say, oh, you should do it.”
The Mirror has contacted the BBC for comment.
* Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.
Former TOWIE star Pete Wicks dazzled on the Strictly Come Dancing dancefloor last year. It’s thought one of his famous pals is set to follow in his footsteps and take part in the 2025 series
A friend of 2024 Strictly Come Dancing star Pete Wicks is reportedly ready to follow in their pal’s footsteps (Image: BBC)
Reality TV star Vicky Pattison is reportedly ready to add Strictly Come Dancing to her lengthy TV CV. The former Geordie Shore star, who has pivoted into making documentaries over recent years, is apparently set to get her dancing shoes on ready for the BBC show’s new series.
Vicky, who was crowned Queen of the Jungle in 2025, was on hand to support pal Pete Wicks during his time on the dancefloor last year. The former Geordie Shore’s appearances in the audience didn’t go unnoticed by BBC bosses, who liked what they saw.
“She has great energy and will no doubt be a hit with the viewers,” an insider of said of Vicky, who is reportedly ready to step out of her comfort zone and learn a new skill.
Vicky Pattison and Pete Wicks have a close bind
A source close to the 37-year-old said: “She’s had a continuing rise in popularity and her TV work is going from strength to strength after presenting a serious Channel Four documentary and appearing on Celebrity Gogglebox.”
Speaking to The Sun, they added: “It’s a no-brainer they want to sign her up” The Mirror has approached the BBC and representatives for Vicky for comment on this story.
Pete isn’t the only former Strictly Come Dancing star Vicky is pals with. In May, it was announced that Vicky would launch podcast inspired by ‘female comradery; with Angela Scanlon, who finished in sixth place during the 2023 series.
Vicky and Angela will discuss topics including motherhood and internet drama as the hosts of a new podcast titled Get A Grip. The catalyst for the podcast was “female comradery in the face of the ridiculous”, according to Virgin Radio UK host Angela.
“Being told to ‘get a grip’ is not a new notion for most women, and is something I’ve experienced a couple of times (a week!), as has Vicky,” the 41-year-old said.
“Female comradery in the face of the ridiculous was the catalyst for our new podcast. We wanted to create a fun and empowering space where we can unpick the good, the bad and the bizarre happenings in the world each week as we move through our own lives loudly, unashamedly and maybe a little unhinged.
“We’re taking the group chat into the pod world and we can’t wait for you to come with us!” Vicky added: “For those who know me by now I am never one to shy away from expressing myself whether people want to hear it or not!
“So I’m thrilled that I get to do that alongside my partner in crime as we do our best to keep things real and put the world to rights with lots of laughter along the way. I have no doubt we will be bringing a lot of you along with us too.”
Speaking about Pete’s Strictly stint last year, Vicky said: “Like when I found out Pete was doing it, the first thing I did was ring him and see if he was OK.
“Because me and him are more like stand in the corner, drink and have a laugh than you know, centre of the dance floor people. And he was saying he was really nervous, and I think that’s how I’ll be.”
Natalie Z. Briones is a concert veteran. She’s been to heavy metal concerts and a punk music festival where she napped most of the time. On Sunday, she attended her first baby rave.
Natalie is a few months shy of two. In the arms of her dad, Alvin Briones, 36, the pigtailed toddler squealed “Hi!” to anyone passing by the Roxy Theatre in West Hollywood where the Briones family was lined up to meet Lenny Pearce, the mastermind behind Natalie’s favorite song, “The Wheels on the Bus.”
Natalie Z. Briones, held by her father Alvin Briones, sports rainbow face paint at the baby rave.
(Elizabeth Weinberg / For The Times)
It’s not the classic version most parents sing while slowly swaying and clapping — Pearce’s rendition rages with enough bass to rattle rib cages. Natalie is here for it, and so is her mom, Alondra Briones, who plays the techno remix during her drives to work even without Natalie in the backseat.
“It’s a pick-me-up,” said Alondra, 28, from Compton, before filing into the theater with other parents and caregivers for an afternoon rager with their kids.
In Pearce’s techno remixes of classic children’s music, an unexpected subgenre is taking off — toddler techno — which melds the cloyingly sweet lyrics of songs like “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” with the edgy beat drops associated with music from gritty warehouse parties.
The unlikely musical pairing creates a bridge between parents like Sandra Mikhail and her 6-year-old daughter, Mila. Both dressed in fuchsia at Pearce’s dance party, the mother-daughter duo were there to celebrate Mila’s promotion from kindergarten. In their Riverside home, Pearce’s music is on heavy rotation.
Children squeal in delight at the baby rave at the Roxy as Kuma the money, Lenny Pearce’s sidekick, hypes up the crowd.
“I can handle kids’ music now,” said Sandra, 38. “With the beat and [Pearce] adding that techno touch to it, it makes me able to tolerate listening to it all day long.”
For the last year, Pearce has been hosting sold-out dance parties boldly called baby raves — first in his native Australia — then on the first leg of his U.S. tour, which culminated in a June 29 double-header at the Roxy.
In the afternoon show timed for that sweet spot many parents know well — post-nap and right before the evening witching hours — Pearce pranced, high-fived kids and waved at babies being hoisted in the air.
Lenny Pearce vibes with the crowd at his sold-out show at the Roxy.
(Elizabeth Weinberg / For The Times)
At 34, he’s been an entertainer for most of his life. Over a decade ago, he was dancing in music videos as a member of the Australian boy band, Justice Crew. Now, he’s firmly affixed in his dad era. His dance partner is now a large balloon spider named Incy Wincy.
“I’m just being a dad on stage,” said Pearce in a video interview from New York. “I can make a clown of myself to entertain kids.”
From boy band to toddler techno
Lenny Pearce uses props during his shows, including an inflatable duck.
(Elizabeth Weinberg / For The Times)
Pearce’s journey into children’s entertainment seemed preordained, if only because his identical twin brother is arguably the second most famous purple character on a children’s TV show (behind Barney, of course).
“We’re both in the toddler scene,” said John Pearce, the older twin by minutes, who in 2021 joined “The Wiggles” cast as the Purple Wiggle. “[My brother’s] stuck with it for a long time, and it’s all paid off now.”
At the Roxy, many parents and caregivers said they found Pearce through the Purple Wiggle. Others discovered him on social media: He has more than 2 million followers on TikTok and more than 1 million followers on Instagram.
Before becoming children’s entertainers, the Pearce brothers were members of Justice Crew, a dance troupe that won “Australia’s Got Talent” in 2010. For a few years, the boy band’s future burned white hot with the aspiration to break through in the U.S. — a dream that never materialized.
Lenny Pearce started making what he calls toddler techno music after his daughter was born in 2022. As a dad, he says he’s happy to act silly for kids.
Most boy bands have a finite time in the spotlight, said Pearce. In 2016, he quit the Justice Crew to focus on DJing and music production, but the transition from boy band to toddler techno didn’t happen overnight. For a time, he worked as a salesperson at an Australian electronic store.
“People were like, ‘Aren’t you from Justice Crew?’” he said. “And I’m like, ‘Yeah. Now, do you want this lens with that camera?’”
In 2022, becoming a dad to his daughter Mila changed the course of his creativity. Pearce started remixing children’s songs with “ravey” music and filming himself dancing with her to the songs. Soon, other parents started sharing videos of their kids dancing to his songs, too. In this way, social media allows for ideas to be refined until something sticks.
In March, Pearce released his first solo album aptly titled, “Toddler Techno.”
All along the way, he imagined playing these songs at mini raves. For this generation of kids and their millennial parents, it’s not a stretch, said Pearce. Pretend DJ tables are just as commonly sold in toy aisles as construction trucks.
In the fall, Pearce and his baby raves will return to the U.S. — and, yes, to L.A. — in a 30-city tour. As a solo artist, he’s done what he couldn’t do in a band — he’s broken through to the U.S. and international audiences.
“It’s funny, isn’t it?” said Pearce. “I always felt like I had something to say, but no one really listened.”
But are techno parties OK for kids?
Many attendees at the baby rave were wearing ear covers.
(Elizabeth Weinberg / For The Times)
The roots of techno — in Detroit or Berlin depending on whom you talk to — were always antiestablishment, said Ambrus Deak, program manager of music production at the Los Angeles Film School.
“It was exploratory,” said Deak, a longtime DJ who went by DJ AMB, about techno.
Toddler techno plays with that contrast — an edgy genre made safe for kids. Deak would not attend a baby rave — “It would be very cringe for me,” he said — but sees the appeal.
“I can definitely see a lot of people being into it,” said Deak, 48.
Still, not everyone is sold on the idea of taking kids to a rave — even one held in the middle of the day with a face-painting station. In the comments of Pearce’s social media posts, parents occasionally debate the appropriateness of exposing kids to drug-addled rave culture.
“I know that most people would say, ‘Is this the image we want to teach our kids?’” said Pearce. “What image are you imagining? Because if you think about it, they’re just kids with light sticks, right?”
He gets the concern, but kids don’t know about the darker sides of raves unless they are taught. And that’s not what his baby raves are about.
In the right dose, some experts say techno music and baby raves can be beneficial for kids and parents.
“Parents’ happiness and stress regulation also matter,” said Jenna Marcovitz, director of the UCLA Health Music Therapy program. “Techno can promote oxytocin and boost endorphins. It can encourage joy and play and really support brain development, emotional regulation and really enhance the parent-child bond as well.”
At the Roxy, one man vigorously pumped his fist to the beat of the music.
“Fist pump like this!” he shouted to the child on his shoulders. Both fists — little and big — jabbed the air.
How to keep it safe and sane
Glow sticks were a popular accessory at the event.
(Elizabeth Weinberg / For The Times)
Everything — especially baby raves — should be enjoyed in moderation. The pulsating music, giant inflatables tossed into the crowd and sudden blasts of fog can overstimulate kids.
For the roughly one-hour show, the music is loud. Typically set to 85 to 90 decibels, Pearce said. Having a sensory support plan is key, said Marcovitz, who recommends toddlers wear headphones with a noise reduction rating of 20 to 30 decibels or higher — like this one or this one. Practicing dance parties at home, so your child knows what to expect, is also helpful.
At the rave, look for signs of overstimulation, which can present differently with each child — some might shut down while others might start shoving each other mosh pit-style. At the Roxy show, one toddler sat down, ate half a bag of Goldfish crackers and poured the rest on the floor. Another disappeared into the crowd for a few alarming moments before being returned by a good Samaritan.
Toddlers crawl and lay down amid the crowd at the baby rave.
(Elizabeth Weinberg / For The Times)
“For any child, I would recommend breaks every 30 minutes,” said Marcovitz. “Step outside.”
Because techno hypes people up — even little kids — it’s important to help a child regulate their nervous system back down after the show.
“Lots of cuddles, silence and hugs,” said Marcovitz.
Pearce also starts the party late, so the dance party before the rave can tucker kids out before he takes the stage.
Ashley and Todd Herles drove from Santa Clarita to the Roxy so their son, Oliver, 3, could meet Pearce before the show. They said they bought $120 VIP tickets, which included a meet and greet and table seats where Oliver got to high-five Kuma, Pearce’s dancing sidekick in a turquoise monkey suit. For Pearce’s November 23 show at the Novo in downtown Los Angeles, ticket prices currently range from $48 to $195, fees and taxes included.
Overall, Oliver loved it — until he didn’t.
“[The] meltdown happened around 1:40 so we left then,” said Ashley, 40.
They had big post-rave plans to refuel with french fries. But Oliver was tired.
And, most importantly?
“Our backs hurt,” said Ashley.
Children bopped along to the music from atop their parents’ shoulders during the dance party.
Strictly Come Dancing bosses are reportedly looking to sign up a Celebs Go Dating and Married At First Sight UK expert to the show
Celebs Go Dating and MAFS expert ‘in talks to join Strictly Come Dancing’(Image: BBC)
Strictly Come Dancing bosses are reportedly looking to sign up Celebs Go Dating and Married At First Sight expert Paul C Brunson for the upcoming series of the BBC dance competition. While the show doesn’t return until later this year, there have already been rumours on who could be trying their hand on the dance floor.
It has been claimed relationship expert and TV host Paul could be joining the show. The star became known to UK fans thanks to his appearances on CGD and MAFS UK, but recently starred alongside Britain’s Got Talent judge Amanda Holden for Netflix’s reality series, Cheat: Unfinished Business.
Bosses are reportedly hoping to get Paul to sign up for the show(Image: Matt Monfredi / Channel 4)
Speaking to The Sun about why bosses want to sign Paul onto the show, an insider claimed: “Paul would be the ideal tonic to the dark clouds over Strictly as he’s clean-cut, very intelligent and has no scandals to worry about.
“They are now in discussion but he’s met with producers a number of times.” The Mirror have reached out to the BBC for comment.
Earlier this week, the same publication claimed bosses want Sir Mo Farah on the show as he’s a “genuine national treasure”.
It’s claimed that bosses are also hoping for Sir Mo Farah(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
His personality would provide the perfect tonic to the toxicity that’s overshadowed Strictly. Bosses would love to sign him up but the talks are at a very early stage.”
In recent times, Strictly Come Dancing dealt with numerous scandals. After 2023’s series, Amanda Abbington accused professional dancer partner Giovanni Pernice of bullying.
Around the same time, Graziano Di Prima was axed from the show. But reports emerged over the summer claiming that the Italian dancer had kicked and hit Zara, 27, which he strongly denies.
He later admitted that his “intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime.” Most recently, Wynne Evans was axed from the Strictly live tour over his behaviour.
Wynne appeared on This Morning recently to speak about his series of scandals while on the BBC show – and revealed that the negative attention had taken a severe toll on his mental health.
“I was at my lowest ebb, I wanted to end my life. I would have if I hadn’t been surrounded by people,” he said to the TV show’s hosts.
Former Olympian and star of Gladiators Harry Aikines-Aryeetey – better known as Nitro – is expected to appear as a contestant in the 2025 season of Strictly Come Dancing
23:04, 14 Jun 2025Updated 23:05, 14 Jun 2025
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, aka Gladiator star Nitro, is expected to join the cast of Strictly in 2025(Image: Getty Images)
Gladiators star Nitro has been signed up to star in the 2025 season of Strictly Come Dancing. The 36-year-old, whose real name is Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, has some prior experience on the hit BBC show.
He was a contestant in the 2024 Christmas special where he was paired with professional dancer Nancy Xu, 33. The pair impressed the judges are were one of the highest scoring couples, scooping an impressive 37 points for their Street/Commercial performance.
The former Olympic sprinter impressed bosses who are now hoping to secure him for a full season of the long-running dance contest – which will be in its 23rd season this year. There are hopes he will be able to work around his busy schedule that relates to Gladiators – which traditionally films across the summer.
While Strictly usually begins airing in August each year, the contestants are secured weeks in advance and immediately begin training in an effort to gain confidence on the dance floor ahead of the live shows beginning.
A source has told The Sun: “Bosses have been desperate to get Nitro on the series for a while. They were in talks last year but couldn’t get the timings to marry up with his work.”
Harry appeared in the 2024 Christmas special where he danced with Nancy Hu(Image: BBC Studios/Guy Levy)
The source continues: “He was a huge hit at Christmas prancing around in lycra and showing off his biceps. Producers were also impressed with his dancing.”
The source also explained that they hoped Nitro’s inclusion could attract a whole new range of fans to Strictly – as bosses are hoping to capitalize on the family friendly success of Gladiators. The Mirror has contacted the BBC and representatives of Harry for comment.
Strictly has continued to draw scorn and scandal in recent years after accusations of abuse by professional dancers and star signings disgracing themselves with ungentlemanly behaviour. Last year, Go Compare singer Wynne Evans raised eyebrows when he ran his hands over dancer Katy Jones.
He later caused scandal during the 2025 Strictly Live Tour when crude comments he made behind the scenes were made public. Fellow 2024 star Jamie Borthwick was engulfed in scandal this month as it was revealed he used a derogatory term to describe the people of Blackpool when the BBC show filmed there.
A dark cloud hovered over Striclty last year when actress Amanda Abbington made accusations she was abused by professional dancer Giovani Pernice. A BBC investigation was held while Giovanni walked away from the show while protesting his innocence.
Fellow professional dancer Graziano Di Prima admitted he kicked celebrity partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals and he left the BBC show.
Strictly is expected to continue this year, with judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood all set to return. It may be the final time that Craig takes up a seat at the table as he has long vowed to quit the series after he turned 60.
With that landmark passed this year, some fans fear he could retire at the conclusion of the upcoming season. However, the star appeared to backtrack on his promise last year.
He told The Mirror: “I have no intention of quitting because it’s a fantastic Saturday job that I intend to do into my 80s, as long as I’m still compos mentis, darling! and if I haven’t been cancelled before then!”
LEAD ARTIST wore down Dancing Gemini in the final strides to deny Roger Teal a fairytale Lockinge win at Newbury.
Teal’s well-backed 2-1 favourite headed the eventual winner with a furlong to run, but the petrol tank began to empty and John Gosden’s runner got back up close home.
1
Lead Artist (left) edged out Dancing Gemini in the Lockinge StakesCredit: Getty
It was heartbreak for nice guy Teal, who was seeking just his third Group 1 win, but he took it on the chin and is up for another crack at the winner.
There was promise, too, from Richard Hannon’s Classic winner Rosallion, who was a few lengths away in third on his first run for nearly a year.
But it was Gosden who had the last laugh, winning a Group 1 just 10 days after sacking Kieran Shoemark as his stable jockey.
He will no doubt feel his decision has been vindicated after Oisin Murphy steered home 17-2 shot Lead Artist by a neck, a result Gosden admitted he didn’t see coming.
He said: “It was a very strong Lockinge and if you’d asked me beforehand I’d have said we’d be in the first three, I didn’t expect him to win.
“He is a lovely horse and he’s won over nine furlongs before, so Ryan came at us from off the pace and used up petrol and we’ve just been able to get back past him.
“We’ll go to the Queen Anne at Royal Ascot now where I expect we’ll meet several of these horses again, and it should be a hell of a race.”
Dancing Gemini will definitely be there, and Teal said he won’t duck and dive his way through the season with his stable star.
The Lambourn trainer said last month he wanted to emulate last season’s top miler Charyn, and so far the four-year-old is sticking to the script.
Teal said: “We said we were going to try and do a Charyn and he was second in the Lockinge last year, so it’s not the end of the world. We’ve run better than Charyn did, he ran great.
“Ryan said the ground was probably a bit lively for him, it was the quickest ground he’s been on.
“We don’t duck and dive, we’ve only gone down a neck and he has put the rest of the field to bed so we’ll go to the Queen Anne now.
“It was a bit of an awkward draw, we had to take him back further than we wanted to. He’s gone down on his sword and he’s a Group 1 winner waiting to happen.”
Hannon was a bag of nerves before Rosallion’s long overdue return to action, but he was pleased with the colt after such a long lay-off.
He said: “It was a very good run, he was pretty fit coming here but there is nothing like race fitness.
“I’ve no doubt he’ll improve loads for that, so we will go again and head to Ascot.”
There’s a new interactive exhibit opening on Thursday at the California Science Center across the street from the Coliseum that will provide Disneyland-like sports entertainment for all ages, and it’s free.
Using censors, cameras and 21st century technology, “Game On!” takes up 17,000 square feet formally occupied by the Space Shuttle Endeavor exhibit. It allows visitors to learn about science, sports and movement. You get to actively participate by hitting a softball against pitcher Rachel Garcia, take batting practice instructions from Freddie Freeman and kick a soccer ball into a goal while learning from Alyssa and Gisele Thompson. All are mentors.
Yet there’s so much more. You get to try swimming strokes, skateboarding, snowboarding, cycling. There’s climbing, yoga, dancing and challenging your senses during an exhibit that tests your quickness trying to block a hockey puck. There’s a basketball exhibit where you shoot a ball toward the basket and learn if your form is good or not.
One of the murals at the new interactive sports exhibition at California Science Center.
(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)
“There’s something for everybody,” said Renata Simril, president and CEO of the LA84 Foundation that helped provide funding along with the Dodgers Foundation and Walter Family Foundation.
She’s not embellishing. Parents, children, adults, teenagers — they’re all going to be smiling. Don’t be surprised if nearby USC students discover a new place to enjoy an hour break for fun and laughter from studying by walking over to the exhibition hall when it opens at 10 a.m.
The California Science Center new interactive sports exhibit — “Game On!” — opens on Thursday. It’s free.
(Eric Sondheimer / Los Angeles Times)
It’s supposed to be open through the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, but don’t be surprised if popularity creates momentum to keep it around longer.
“It’s really cool,” said Garcia, a former UCLA All-American softball pitcher who appears on a screen showing off her 60 mph pitch as a participant swings a real bat trying to hit an imaginary ball as a light trail moves down a rail toward the batter. “I think it’s phenomenal. It’s going to get a lot of kids engaged.”
New interactive sports exhibit opens Thursday at California Science Center. It’s incredible. And it’s free. Kids, adults will love it. Thanks to Jeff Rudolph for the tour. Climbing, baseball, softball, soccer, swimming, yoga, dancing. Open through 2028 Olympic Games. pic.twitter.com/ARhmNFkmQW
Garcia even tried to hit against herself. “I missed the first time,” she said.
The batting cage where Freeman is providing hitting advice has a real soft ball and bat. It will be popular for all ages.
The rock climbing exhibit still has not been completed, but participants will wear a harness as they climb toward the ceiling.
While kids will be the most enthusiastic, a dinner recently held at the facility that had adults dressed in tuxedos and dresses resulted in them trying out the exhibits and acting like teenagers again.
Using science to teach lessons could provide inspiration for non-sports visitors. There’s sound effects throughout and most important, pushing a button doesn’t just mean you watch and listen. It means you get to participate, whether hitting a baseball or softball, trying to make a free throw, trying to swim or skateboard.
Don’t be surprised when word gets out how fun this exhibition creates. There will be lines. The only question will it be kids lining up or adults?
