death

Gardeners’ World star Adam Frost’s world ‘turned upside down’ after co-star’s death

Gardeners’ World’s Adam Frost has opened up about his former mentor, Geoff Hamilton, the iconic BBC presenter who inspired him before his death in 1996

Adam Frost said his “world turned upside down” when he discovered his co-star had died.

Adam first met Gardeners’ World legend Geoff Hamilton in 1990 after responding to a job advertisement seeking “a young landscaper required for a television garden in Rutland”. It would prove to be a life-changing moment for the presenter, who would eventually go on to become one of the show’s most recognisable faces on TV.

Adam officially joined Gardeners’ World as a co-presenter in 2016, bringing his warm, down-to-earth approach to the much-loved programme. Over the years, the show has been fronted by a host of experts, including Geoff, who joined in 1979 following a guest appearance that led to a permanent role.

To honour what would have been Geoff’s 90th birthday, BBC Four is celebrating his enduring legacy with a special evening dedicated to the much-loved presenter.

Adam, who went on to follow in Geoff’s footsteps, recalled warmly: “You could just sense Geoff was slightly different. There was a presence, a confidence, I could tell he cared passionately about his work. I was captivated.”

He further told the Radio Times: “My relationship with my old man was never great, and Geoff was someone to look up to. He had a lot of his family working for him, a strong moral compass, and he knew what he was trying to do.”

Reflecting on the moment he learned of Geoff’s passing, Adam confessed: “My world turned upside down.” He also revealed that he recently told his son he “still misses him”.

Tragically, Geoff died in 1996 at just 59 years old, following a heart attack while taking part in a charity cycle run.

Away from the garden, Adam has also shown great courage in speaking publicly about his two-decade health battle with Fibromyalgia, a debilitating condition which triggers widespread pain throughout the body and affects roughly 2.5 million people in the UK.

During an appearance on Morning Live, which aired last year, Adam was visibly emotional as he discussed his long struggle with the illness. “For most of my life, I’ve considered myself pretty fit and healthy, regularly playing sports and, of course, spending lots of time in the garden,” he said.

He went on to explain how his symptoms first began: “But around 20 years ago, I started to experience some unusual symptoms. I started to experience these very odd pains. They started in my neck, back, and shoulders, like this throbbing, and that then just moved through the rest of my body. On top of that, I wasn’t sleeping very well. I’d go to work and come home, exhausted.”

Adam revealed that for almost two years, doctors struggled to identify what was causing him to be so unwell, leaving him feeling like he was being “sent from pillar to post”. Even after finally receiving his diagnosis, he explained it took a further 12 months of “going on this journey of understanding to eventually get some sort of treatment.”

Gardeners’ World is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

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Congo’s Ebola death toll passes 1,500 as it struggles to halt spread | Ebola News

There’s still no vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain of the virus as the country struggles for control in infected areas.

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has killed more than 1,500 people, as the spread of the virus continues to outpace response efforts, new statistics have revealed.

DRC has now recorded 3,442 cases of the virus and 1,521 deaths, a government update said on Thursday. The data marks a 50 percent increase in the death toll over the past week, with authorities continuing to struggle to rein in the outbreak in the east of the country, where decades of conflict with rebel groups have left government control and infrastructure lax or absent.

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The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said that the sharp rise since last week partly reflects a backlog of cases and deaths that had not yet been confirmed or recorded.

The lack of a proven vaccine for Bundibugyo, which is the rarest of the four variants of Ebola known to affect humans, and the fact the epidemic is unfolding in an area of active hostilities between armed groups, producing a shortage of public health resources, has helped to allow the virus to spread “like wildfire”, a public health consultant who helped establish Africa CDC told Al Jazeera earlier this month.

Africa CDC added that delays in contact tracing, difficulties accessing affected areas, and mistrust from communities have hindered an effective response.

The outbreak is mostly concentrated in eastern Congo’s remote Ituri province, which accounts for nearly 90 percent of cases, but five other provinces have confirmed cases, including one of the country’s largest cities, Kisangani.

Neighbouring Uganda declared itself free of Ebola on Tuesday following the discharge of the country’s last patient in mid-June.

Africa CDC Director-General Dr Jean Kaseya said 63 percent of confirmed deaths in the last two weeks occurred outside treatment centres.

This is largely due to the “unsafe handling of infected bodies” by residents, including touching the remains of the deceased, whose bodies remain highly infectious.

Earlier this month, some healthcare workers in Ituri went on strike over unpaid wages and unsafe working conditions, which has also impeded efforts to hold back the disease’s rapid spread.

In Ituri’s Nyakunde health zone, international partners supporting the Ebola response had to temporarily relocate after a July 15 attack on a hospital and a treatment centre, prompted by a patient’s death. Officials said this disrupted surveillance, contact tracing and supplies.

Despite the accelerated death toll in DRC, the World Health Organization has said the risk of a global spread remains low because Ebola does not travel through the air, making it much harder to spread than respiratory viruses.

Cases detected outside the DRC have so far been quickly identified and contained without leading to sustained transmission, the agency said.

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EastEnders star told to stay at home by BBC after ‘red alert’ death threats over storyline

Ted Lasso star Annette Badland played villain Babe Smith in EastEnders for three years, and her portrayal was so convincing that the BBC received serious death threats on her behalf

BBC bosses issued a rare “red alert” safety warning to former EastEnders actress Annette Badland after a crazed fan sent death threats that were deemed credible by security experts.

The individual behind the chilling threats was never definitively identified, Annette said. Speaking on Sally Lindsay’s podcast, Annette explained on Sally Lindsay’s podcast: “Because I was leaving, they racked up my villainy and I actually got thrown out of, literally, thrown out of the pub by Danny and cursed them.

“But I had death threats. I got the call from the BBC security saying, ‘We’re getting death threats. There are red alert code words in this, so we have to take it seriously’.”

She was warned that she should only leave her house if it was absolutely necessary, and that if she did go out, she shouldn’t tell anyone where she was going.

Annette says she was effectively under house arrest throughout the six-week investigation: “They eventually traced it to just outside Liverpool. It was in a school, but they didn’t think it was a child. But because it was a public computer they didn’t feel they could get much further.”

Despite that harrowing conclusion to her EastEnders tenure, Annette says she cherished her time on the BBC soap. She holds particularly warm memories of Danny Dyer, whom she describes as “bright, kind-hearted…and daft.”

She recalled Danny’s extraordinary generosity, revealing he taught her to “say the C-word,” which proved tremendously useful when she moved on to Ted Lasso and was handed a script riddled with crude language. She joked: “I said to myself, ‘I’ve worked with Danny Dyer, I can do this’.”

Ironically, however, that “very funny” scene ended up on the cutting-room floor and has never been seen by the public.

It was an unscripted moment, early in her EastEnders stint, that made the show’s writers recognise that in Babe Smith, they had the foundations of a truly iconic villain: “I had a scene with Tim [Timothy West, who played Stan Carter on the show] and he was watching the television.

“I’d been in love with him when I was young and he’d married my sister and I didn’t like that – that was the cause of all my pain and anguish.

“It wasn’t scripted,” Annette added, “but I picked up the remote control and turned the television off. I told him what I thought, put the telly back on, and left. And I think they thought, ‘Ooh, she can be nasty’.”

What followed was three years packed with drama, reaching its peak when Babe was locked inside a freezer and left for dead by an unknown attacker, who was ultimately unmasked as Lorna Fitzgerald’s Abi Branning.

In a dramatic farewell, Babe was caught red-handed stealing from the Queen Vic’s safe, but it was her savage outburst at Linda [Kellie Bright] – branding her a “stuck-up cow” – that saw Mick Carter finally remove her from the pub, and banish her from Walford for good.

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Black Sabbath legend Tony Iommi tells of ‘shock’ at Ozzy Osbourne’s death as he reveals first solo album in 20 years

BLACK Sabbath’s Tony Iommi last released a solo album more than two decades ago.

And now, as he finally announces a new record, From The Dark, he reckons it might take just as long to get presented with his MBE.

Black Sabbath legend Tony Iommi has told of his ‘shock’ at Ozzy Osbourne’s death Credit: Getty
The pair exchanged text messages the night before Ozzy died Credit: Getty

The legendary axeman was in the Actress & Bishop boozer in his native Birmingham to celebrate the album’s release when asked when he’d be going to Buckingham Palace.

Tony was made an MBE in the King’s birthday honours last month, for his services to music and charity. But he joked: “I’d forgotten about that. They have probably changed their minds now.”

From The Dark, out on October 23, is Tony’s first album since 2005’s Fused, when he teamed with former Deep Purple, Sabbath and Trapeze singer and bassist Glenn Hughes.

Queen’s Brian May plays a guest solo on Death Wake, and the blistering lead single, the upbeat but punchy World Alone, confirms why he earned the nickname The Master Of The Riffs.

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That moniker’s all the more impressive when Tony reminds us that he lost the tips of the middle and ring fingers of his fret hand as a teen, while working in a sheet metal factory in the city.

He recalled: “I went to different doctors and they said, ‘You might as well give up and find another profession’.”

So he made replacement fingertips. He said: “I got a Fairy Liquid bottle, melted it down into a ball and then got a soldering iron and made a hole in it, so it fit on my finger.

“I tried to play and it slipped off. I had to find a material that would grip the strings like skin, so I cut one of my old rocker leather jackets up, and it worked.”

Iommi fans are in for a treat with From The Dark — which has eight tracks, with two additional songs, Scent Of Dark and Deified on the deluxe version.

It was two years in the making, with Tony enlisting Jorn Lande on vocals, bassist Becky Baldwin and Robbie Williams’ longtime drummer Karl Brazil.

The process was slowed by the loss of Tony’s Black Sabbath bandmate Ozzy Osbourne last July, with Tony stepping back from recording for a while.

The pair exchanged text messages the night before Ozzy died. He said: “I didn’t expect him to go overnight. It was a hell of a shock.”

Tony Iommi and The Sun’s Ellie Henman Credit: Unknown
Tony has finally announced his new record, From The Dark Credit: Getty

On returning to work on the record, Tony added: “We’ve done it casually really, because there was no pressure.

The album is steeped in his home city’s history. He said: “The whole record is designed around Birmingham. The T-shirts have been made in Birmingham, the merchandise has been made in Birmingham.”

In front of a small group of guests, with Frank Skinner taking on the interviewing duties, Tony unveiled the dystopian video for World Alone, which was filmed in Cornwall.

“I hate doing videos, I’ve never liked them,” he said.

“This one is more like a film and I am in it but not wanting to be.”

Despite his reticence at getting in front of the cameras, it sounds likely Tony will return to the stage.

Asked whether fans will hear him play the record live, he smiled and said: “You may do.

“Anything’s a possibility.”

MARS FINAL AT WEMBLEY

BRUNO MARS brought the curtain down on his six huge Wembley Stadium shows with a low-key bash at a Mayfair private members’ club.

My moles tell me the singer hosted the do at George on Mount Street, arriving with his entourage at 1am.

A source said: “Bruno shut down an area inside George to celebrate his six Wembley gigs.

“He only invited a handful of people to join him and kept it very casual and chic. There was a great atmosphere though, and Bruno was the life and soul of the party.

“He was blown away by the reception to his Romantic Tour from British fans and was grinning from ear to ear.

“It’s been huge for him to play six headline shows there and he’s ready for a break before he heads back out in the US.”

It’s little wonder Bruno is ready for some time off.

He’s been on tour for four months now and, after three weeks away, he’ll get back to it with dates in the US and Asia, eventually finishing in Japan on January 28.

Tate shapes up for comeback

Tate McRae stuns in a workout gear for an Adidas Originals Sport campaign Credit: Adidas

TATE McRAE gets fighting fit for her comeback as she prepares to release new music.

The Canadian pulled on her skintight workout clobber and pumped iron for an Adidas Originals Sport campaign.

It comes ahead of a return to the stage this weekend, almost nine months after her last concert.

Tate will headline the Osheaga Festival in Montreal on Saturday, and Lollapalooza in Chicago the following night, as teasers on social media suggest she might debut new songs.

Previous album So Close To What became her most successful yet when it peaked at No2 in the charts last year.

But with her star power continuing to rise, I’m sure she’s got her sights set on turning the next record into a chart-topper.

BTS SNUB GRAMMYS IN PROTEST

K-POP megastars BTS are boycotting the Grammy Awards after an Asian-only category was introduced.

The group won’t submit any of their music to be considered for any awards at the 2027 ceremony, in protest over the change.

In a statement, they said: “We have decided not to enter the Grammys this year.

“I hope that music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language.”

The Grammys last month announced the Best Asian Pop Music Performance award, where songs must contain “meaningful use” of an Asian language.

But many have criticised the move, saying it pigeon-holes artists from that region.

BTS, whose latest album Arirang is largely in English, had been expected to rack up several nominations after it became one of 2025’s best sellers.

It’s Olivia RodLego

Olivia Rodrigo holds her album cover in Lego form Credit: The LEGO Group/Hunter Simmons

OLIVIA RODRIGO has recreated her latest album cover in Lego form – and will hide versions of the record around the world.

She posed in this plaid mini-dress at a pop-up event in Los Angeles, where it was revealed 333 toy-brick vinyl versions of You Seem Pretty Sad For A Girl So In Love will be available.

The album is in the UK Top Three for a sixth week.

Olivia and Lego will drop clues on social media, hinting at record shops where fans might be able to get the special versions.

I expect to see them popping up on eBay for astronomical sums any day now.

SHANIA’S LACK OF VISION

IT doesn’t sound like Shania Twain is very likely to compete at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027.

Her native Canada will be joining for the first time. But asked if she’d be tempted to give it a go, she said: “It hasn’t entered my mind. It’s a fair question, though. I don’t know what my pull would be for that, but I would certainly be curious to see how that comes together. There is a lot of talent there.”

The contest will take place in Bulgaria.

But Shania has enough on her plate, having released album Little Miss Twain, which looks like entering the Top Five on Friday.

She’s also planning 30th-anniversary celebrations for her album Come On Over.

Ruben’s hol alone

Ruben Dias showed off his incredible physique in some Insta thirst traps Credit: instagram//ruben dias

RUBEN Dias has made sure everyone knows he’s one of football’s most eligible bachelors, following his split from Maya Jama.

The Manchester City defender broke up with the Love Island host at the end of April.

Three months on, and following his appearance at this summer’s World Cup with Portugal, he has jetted off on a lads’ holiday to Ibiza.

Judging by the photos of his rippling six-pack he shared on Instagram, Ruben got his mates to take thirst trap pictures for him while they were there.

But hinting that he’s still not totally over the split with Maya, he captioned the post: “Feelings on silent.”

With pictures like this, there will be plenty of people offering him a shoulder to cry on.

MACCABEES ALBUM

THE Maccabees are working on their first album since 2015, after reuniting last year.

They have been playing fresh tunes during live shows.

Asked if an album was any closer, singer Orlando Weeks told Radio X: “We have some songs, and we have one we’re really confident about and we’re enjoying playing.

“That’s the aim – to try and do it, make it good enough, and then it’ll happen.”


lMILEY CYRUS’ rocker fiancé Maxx Morando popped the question on holiday in Japan last autumn.

He told Wonderland mag it happened in “this little outer garden”.

Maxx added: “She was taking videos, and was turned away. I got on one knee and tapped her on the shoulder.”


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Death in Paradise star Ben Miller shares fears of ‘being cancelled’

Ben Miller has opened up on being ‘cancelled’ and how it can often be a worry for him

Death In Paradise star Ben Miller has shared his honest take on being “cancelled”.

The 60-year-old, who previously played Detective Inspector Richard Poole in the popular BBC series, has expressed his thoughts and concerns about social media and how things can suddenly get out of hand. Talking to Radio Times about his show, Austin, which is now in its second series, the star spoke openly about his worries.

Ben was asked: “In Austin, which is back for a second series, you play a children’s author who has been ‘cancelled’ — is that something you worry about?”

The actor replied: “I think we all worry about it a bit, don’t we? Even somebody who’s not on TV who puts a post on their social media takes a very small risk that it’s going to cause a complete Twitter [X] storm.

“Social media is set up to produce that kind of situation, so whatever you put on social media is basically chum to the sharks that can’t stand your guts.”

As well as his cancellation fears, Ben was asked about his role in Death In Paradise and whether he would ever return for a prequel. DI Richard Poole was killed off at the beginning of Series 3 in 2014.

Sharing his thoughts on a potential return he said: “If I wasn’t so ruddy old, I could play him in a prequel! I loved the character and I loved the show.

“It just came at a slightly unfortunate time in my life. But I do really miss that character.

“And funnily enough, Rob Thorogood [the Paraverse creator and writer] has carried on writing stories for Richard Poole, which is quite fun, so that’s a nice way to live the character again.”

Ben’s time on Death in Paradise came to an end in the series three opener, Death of a Detective. The actor later explained that he decided to leave because filming in Guadeloupe meant spending long stretches away from his family, making it difficult to balance work and home life

Since then, there have been several other detectives that have taken on his role of uncovering truths behind the many murders on the fictional island of Saint Marie. In the most recent series, actor Don Gilet plays Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson.

Death In Paradise is available to watch on BBC iPlayer

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Europe’s ‘death road’ has 70 ft cliffs and water rushing across it

This road has some truly stunning views – but if you’re behind the wheel, it’s safer not to look at them.

Road trips can be a fabulous way to see the world – but hidden in a back corner of Europe is a road trip unlike any other. This mountain pass is infamous as one of the most dangerous in the world, travelling over the ranges with 70 foot drops, no guard rails and waterfalls crashing over your path.

Known as Europe’s ‘death road ’ the Abano Pass in the Caucasus Mountains of Georgia is widely known as the most dangerous road in Europe. It is the only vehicle route connecting the lowlands of the Kakheti region to the isolated mountain region of Tusheti.

It is approximately 70 kilometres long, but due to the extreme conditions it can take an experienced driver anything between four to six hours.

According to dangerousroads.org , between 10 and 12 people die in crashes every year on this isolated stretch of road.

It is a steep, winding road that is only open to 4×4 vehicles due to its rough and unpredictable surface, tight turns and precipitous climbs.

It is only open during the summer months from around May to October (depending on weather conditions).

Frequent rainfall and melting snow can trigger rockfalls or landslides which can wipe the road out entirely, and several waterfalls mean the road is often wet and slippery.

There are several waterfalls which crash across the road, and these can hide deep potholes beneath the water. If the water is heavier than usual, it also runs the risk of sweeping vehicles sideways off the road and down the sheer cliff face with little warning.

The road is also incredibly slim, making it terrifying if you meet another car coming the other way.

While some people may think there is room to pass by squeezing the two cars in close, this would be a mistake.

According to IsleofNomads, the road can quickly give way and send the car on the outside hurtling into the deep ravine below.

Instead, it is safer to very carefully reverse until you find a spot where you can tuck the car in off the road and allow the other vehicle to pass.

For those brave enough to traverse it, the Abano Pass does boast some truly jaw-dropping views – just make sure your driver is focused on the road, not the scenery.

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Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s wife Tenisha Warner sues his mother

Malcolm-Jamal Warner‘s widow and his mother are on opposing sides of a legal battle over $1.2 million, a year after “The Cosby Show” star died suddenly at age 54.

Tenisha Warner, the actor’s wife and mother to his daughter, on Monday filed a civil complaint against her mother-in-law alleging breach of contract. The complaint, filed in DeKalb County Superior Court in Georgia, alleges that Pamela Warner — trustee of the Warner Family Trust — owes her daughter-in-law an approximate total of $1,276,042.46 stemming from the spouses’ premarital agreement and the actor’s other alleged financial obligations to his wife, according to legal documents reviewed by The Times.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the Emmy-nominated actor who starred as Theo Huxtable for eight seasons on “The Cosby Show,” died on July 20, 2025, in an accidental drowning while on vacation at Playa Grande, Cahuita, Limón. He married Tenisha in May 2022.

According to her complaint, Tenisha and Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s premarital agreement stated that the actor should purchase and maintain a term life insurance policy of $1 million with his wife as the sole beneficiary. Malcolm-Jamal also agreed in their prenup to maintain and contribute the maximum annual amount to a Roth IRA account for his wife, a financial obligation worth $30,500, according to court documents. Tenisha also claims Malcolm-Jamal agreed to pay her $16,000 a year for each wedding anniversary and a monthly salary of $5,500 “for her service as his Chief of Staff.” The complaint includes a copy of the premarital agreement.

In a statement shared with The Times on Wednesday, Tenisha said she has attempted to privately settle Malcolm-Jamal’s “complicated estate and honor his last wishes” and that the actor “had every intention to provide for our nine-year-old daughter and me.” Tenisha also said her late husband intended to finalize a new estate plan — “the stale plan created [was] in 1996 when he was 26 years old” — but was unable to do so before his death.

“I have been struggling to care for our daughter as a single mom and now as her sole provider. Legally, I had no choice but to take action to protect our rights before any potential statute of limitations expired,” she continued. “We thank you for your support, love, and understanding as we work through this painful process while honoring Malcolm’s life on the first anniversary of his death.”

According to the complaint, Malcolm-Jamal died “without having satisfied his obligations” to his wife and Tenisha has not received payments related to her agreements with the actor. “The full amount of the obligations described herein remains due,” the complaint said.

Tenisha’s complaint also seeks a declaration confirming the validity of her premarital agreement.

Pamela Warner commemorated the anniversary of her son’s death on Tuesday, sharing photos from their past on the Instagram page dedicated to her son’s memory. In between photos from Malcolm-Jamal’s childhood, Pamela included a lengthy statement about moving forward amid a year of “pain, hurt, loss and emotional de-stabilization.” Her statement talks about purpose, healing and a journey to “be better, improve and transform our spiritual selves.”

“During my year long journey, I have discovered how cruel, evil and greedy a human can be,” she wrote, seemingly alluding to the legal battle but not naming her daughter-in-law. “I have also discovered the depth of love, care, concern and support that humans are capable of. All of which I have been the recipient of. The good, the bad, and the ugly. These are the lessons that I apparently will need as I continue my journey.”



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How Amy Winehouse inspired some of today’s biggest stars as her legacy continues to grow 15 years after her tragic death

IT was 15 years ago today that the shocking news broke that Amy Winehouse had died, aged just 27.

She had released just two albums during her eight-year career, but her massive success and larger-than-life character meant her death sent shockwaves around the world — and today her impact on culture is more apparent than ever.

Amy Winehouse died 15 years ago aged 27, but her influence on music and culture continues to grow Credit: Camera Press
Raye says Amy’s impact is ‘irreplaceable’ and no one can match what she achieved Credit: Shutterstock Editorial

In music, fashion and art, she has inspired an entire generation of artists. British music is being dominated by women whose sound, style and brand is packed with references to the late superstar.

In recent weeks rapper Cardi B and actress Zendaya have been spotted dressed like Amy, with her trademark beehive hairdo.

And one artist who is frequently compared with Amy is Raye, who, much like the late singer, has become a celebrated industry darling, thanks to her brassy Motown influences and brutally truthful lyrics.

But Raye feels the weight of comparison more than most, and said: “I’m aware that what she did is irreplaceable and inimitable.

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“Amy did it so well that no one can ever do what she did. And, God rest her soul, she gave her whole life for us to enjoy the music that she left behind.”

Like Amy, Raye went to South London creative arts academy The Brit School, whose starry former pupils also include Adele and Olivia Dean.

Raye recalled her years at the school, and how she would walk down the corridors and see photos on the wall of alumni such as Amy and say: “That’s gonna be me one day.”

Amy’s star certainly burned brightly, but all too briefly. Her body was discovered at her home in Camden, North London on July 23, 2011, by her security guard Andrew Morris.

Toxicology reports later revealed her blood alcohol content was five times the legal drink-drive limit, and the coroner’s report stated her “sudden and unexpected” death was caused by misadventure due to alcohol poisoning.

Amy had battled drug addiction for years, inspiring her 2006 single Rehab, but she had got clean from illegal substances before she died.

Lola Young echoes Amy Winehouse’s gritty London style and shares the Rehab star’s former manager Credit: Getty
Billie Eilish says Amy ‘changed a whole generation of music’ and inspired countless artists Credit: Getty

As a fiercely unapologetic woman in the music world, she blazed a trail for a new way to be an artist — and for future star Lola Young, who was just ten years old when Amy died, she was an inspiration.

The One Thing singer carries a gritty London identity similar to Amy’s and produces familiarly confessional lyrics.

She is even managed by Nick Shymansky, the same industry executive who guided Amy’s career during her breakout success.

After Amy, he swore he would never manage another artist, but was so won over by Lola’s talent — and subtle similarities to Amy — that he decided to take her on, and she has since sold millions of records.

When Amy found fame in the Noughties the music landscape was dominated by indie and processed pop, but she forged a new path with her neo-soul, Sixties pop and jazz sound — and now that sound is everywhere.

Olivia Dean’s easy-listening collection The Art Of Loving is on course to be the biggest-selling album in the UK this year, despite the fact it was released last September.

And even more recently, British newcomer Sienna Spiro has followed Amy with her vintage aesthetic and her breakout single Back To Blonde — mirroring Amy’s 2006 album and single Back To Black.

It is paying off, as last week Sienna shot to No2 in the charts with her debut album Visitor.

The impact of Back To Black, Amy’s second album, was felt worldwide. With classic songs such as Rehab and Tears Dry On Their Own, it became the fifth best-selling album of the 21st century so far, shifting 20million copies.

Amy sang about toxic co-dependency, addiction, dating disasters and her flaws, all in graphic detail, then wrapped them up in palatable and catchy songs.

Olivia Dean’s Amy-inspired album The Art Of Loving is on course to be the UK’s biggest seller this year Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
Mark Ronson says writing Back To Black with Amy changed his life forever Credit: Getty

It was all the more interesting for listeners, as her tumultuous personal life, including a rollercoaster relationship with her boyfriend and then husband Blake Fielder-Civil, and her drug use, became front-page news.

The saga taught lessons to youngsters such as future superstar Billie Eilish, who saw the tragedy unfold as she was growing up in California.

She said: “The things that inspire me about Amy are also the kind of things that are sad about it.

“You knew she wasn’t doing anything that she did for attention or in a weird, fake way because from what I gather, she didn’t really want that s**t, you know.

“It showed me that she was kind of raw for what she was creating, and she wasn’t trying to be anything she wasn’t, because she didn’t even want to be that.

“She changed a whole generation of music. Everyone, when listing off the people that inspired them, Amy Winehouse is always in that list.

“Everything about her, she just mixed a whole bunch of stuff together, and created the most beautiful things.”

And it’s not just female fellow stars who are Amy’s admirers.

Mark Ronson, who produced her Back To Black album and co-wrote the song of the same name, has credited Amy with his entire career.

Accepting the Outstanding Contribution to Music prize at February’s Brit Awards, he said his multiple chart-topping collaborations with other artists would never have happened if it wasn’t for her.

Sienna Spiro released Back To Blonde mirroring Amy’s 2006 hit Credit: Getty
Rapper Cardi B shows off her new Amy-style hairdo Credit: Getty

He said: “I realised on the way here that on Thursday, March 6, it’ll be 20 years to the day that Amy Winehouse came up to my studio in New York City. We went upstairs and talked for four hours and that night we wrote Back To Black, and that day changed my life for ever.”

Mark has since gone on to sell millions of records by working with superstars such as Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars and Miley Cyrus.

But he added: “I know the music I made with Amy is the reason any of them know who I am anyway. That’s why I’ll always treasure her voice, her talent, our bond, all of it.” And this month The Rolling Stones have celebrated Amy’s legacy by covering her song You Know I’m No Good on new album Foreign Tongues.

Guitarist Keith Richards said: “Loved the song. Always thought that Amy was a sad story in many ways, but she was one of the best to come out of England, and probably had so much more potential.”

Such was her star power, she shared the stage with the Stones at the 2007 Isle of Wight Festival, covering the Temptations’ Ain’t Too Proud To Beg, just four years after releasing her debut album Frank.

Street artist Pegasus was a close friend of Amy’s and launched his career on the day she died.

He has since become famous for his stencilled portraits of the singer, such as his “Fallen Angel” mural near Camden Lock, close to where they used to hang out.

Pegasus, whose real name is Chris Turner, told The Sun: “Amy was one of those people who come along every so often, makes a massive impact, unfortunately isn’t around for long but leaves a lasting legacy.

Her light will always shine bright. Her unique style, her love for the greats, like Etta James, Billie Holiday and Nina Simone, introduced and inspired a generation of artists that came after her.

“I am always seeing bits of Amy everywhere and it makes me so proud.”

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Anthony Joshua v Kristian Prenga: British heavyweight boxer not ready to move on from death of friends

Anthony Joshua says he is not ready for the loss of his two close friends and team members to “sink in yet” as he prepares for his first fight since their death.

Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele died when the vehicle they were travelling in, alongside heavyweight boxer Joshua and another passenger, collided with a stationary truck on a major road near Lagos, Nigeria, on 29 December 2025.

Joshua, who sustained minor injuries, is set to return to the ring against heavyweight Kristian Prenga on Saturday for his first contest since knocking out American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul 10 days before the crash.

The 36-year-old told BBC Sport: “It’s tough, every time I think about it, it hurts.

“Even talking about it now… pictures… it hurts but I keep my mind occupied you know.

“If I stop, you let it sink in and I’m not ready for it to sink in yet.”

Ghami was Joshua’s full-time sport and exercise rehabilitation coach and worked with him for more than 10 years.

Hours before the crash, Joshua posted a video on Instagram of him playing table tennis with his long-time friend Ayodele, a personal trainer.

Prenga will be Joshua’s first competitive fight since his knockout loss to IBF world champion Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024.

The former world champion admitted to feeling a “little bit nervous” before his return.

“It’s competition at the highest level,” he added.

“I want to perform for my team, I want to make them proud and make myself proud.

“It’s a balance of nerves but I understand what my job is. [I have] a lot of understanding and clarity on what I have to do.”

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Kaylee Hottle dead: ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ star killed in car crash

Actor Kaylee Hottle, best known for her portrayal of a young deaf orphan who shares a special bond with the giant guardian ape in “Godzilla vs. Kong” and “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” has died. She was 18.

Hottle died Tuesday morning after the car she was a passenger in crashed into a culvert off the side of the road in Ijamsville, Md., the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release. Her father, Joshua Hottle, confirmed her death in a video on Facebook.

“I am taking a flight that I never would like to take,” he wrote in the caption of the video post, in which he explained the situation in American Sign Language. He was on his way from Texas to claim her body, according to TMZ.

The Texas School for the Deaf also addressed the actor’s death on social media.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that one of our TSD seniors, Kaylee Hottle, tragically passed away yesterday in a car accident in Frederick, Maryland,” read the Instagram post. “Our hearts are with Kaylee’s family, friends, classmates and everyone who knew and loved her during this incredibly difficult time.”

Hottle’s breakout role was in the 2021 MonsterVerse crossover “Godzilla vs. Kong,” which marked her big-screen debut as the young orphan Jia. Jia is the last remaining survivor of the Iwi tribe on Skull Island who shares a connection with Kong, the island’s protector. Her adoptive parent, Dr. Ilene Andrews, is a linguistics expert and Kong researcher, played by Rebecca Hall. Hottle reprised the role in the 2024 follow-up, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.”

“After I watched the movie, I thought, ‘Wow, this is going to make such a big impact,’” Hottle said in a 2024 interview with New York’s WABC. “I was so excited. She’s a young deaf girl, just like many others out there. And this journey that she’s going on is just going to be so amazing.”

The actor, who was born in Atlanta, was from an all-deaf family, which included four generations of deaf relatives on her father’s side, according to IMDb.

Authorities said Hottle was one of two passengers in the 1995 Honda Accord that was involved in the crash. While the incident is still being investigated, the Sheriff’s Office said in its news release that “excessive speed is believed to be a contributing factor in the collision.”

Millie Bobby Brown, who also appeared in “Godzilla vs. Kong,” was among those who shared tributes to Hottle following the news of her death.

“I’m so devastated to hear this,” she wrote in her Instagram story, which included a black-and-white photo of Hottle as Jia. “You will be deeply missed Kaylee.”

“I am absolutely gutted about the passing of sweet Kaylee Hottle,” Oscar winner Marlee Matlin wrote on Instagram. “May her beauty and talent be a memory for eternity. … Such a privilege to have met Kaylee last year. Please be kind to one another. Take the time to listen to your child. Say 🤟🏼 each time you part. 🩵”



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Kayle Hottle cause of death: What we know so far after Godzilla vs Kong star dies in car crash aged 18

GODZILLA vs Kong star Kaylee Hottle has died at the age of 18, following a fatal car crash in Maryland.

The young actress, who won hearts worldwide as Jia in the hit Hollywood monster franchise, passed away following the collision.

Actress Kaylee Hottle attends the world premiere of "Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire".
Hottle was a young American actress best known for her role as Jia in the MonsterVerse film series. Credit: AFP

Here is everything we know so far about her death, her life, and the tributes pouring in.

Who was Kaylee Hottle?

Kaylee Hottle was a young American actress best known for her breakout role as Jia in the Legendary Pictures MonsterVerse film series.

Born in 2007 into an all-deaf family, Kaylee grew up natively fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).

Her path to Hollywood stardom began in 2017 when she starred in a commercial for the video relay service provider Convo.

Read more on Kayle Hottle

SHOCKING LOSS

Godzilla vs. Kong star Kaylee Hottle dead at 18 after tragic car crash

Her major break arrived when acclaimed casting director Sarah Halley Finn was seeking a deaf actress to play Jia – a young Iwi girl with a unique bond with King Kong – in the 2021 blockbuster Godzilla vs Kong.

Guided to Kaylee by an assistant director who remembered her performance in the Convo commercial, the film team knew she was perfect for the role.

The movie became a massive global hit, launching Kaylee into the international spotlight.

She reprised her role as Jia in the 2024 sequel Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.

Her performance in the film earned her a nomination for Best Performance by a Younger Actor at the 52nd Saturn Awards.

Outside of her film work, Kaylee was a senior student at the Texas School for the Deaf (TSD) in Austin, Texas.

What was the cause of her death?

Kaylee Hottle reportedly died following a serious car crash in Frederick, Maryland.

Local law enforcement sources confirmed to The U.S. Sun that officers were called to the scene of a fatal crash involving the teenage star, where emergency personnel remained on site.

Her father, Joshua Hottle, first revealed the news of her death during an emotional 23-minute livestream on Facebook.

In the video, presented in American Sign Language (ASL), Joshua shared that he was forced to board an urgent flight to Maryland after receiving a call from officials informing him of the tragic accident.

He explained that authorities notified him that Kaylee’s heart had stopped while she was being transported to the hospital in an ambulance.

Captioning the live broadcast, he wrote: “I am taking a flight that I never would like to take.”

Exact details regarding the cause of the collision, the vehicle involved, or whether anyone else was injured remain unconfirmed as emergency services continue their investigation.

Her former school released a statement noting that official information remains “very limited” and urged the public to refrain from speculating on the circumstances while inquiries continue.

Who has paid tribute?

Tributes have poured in from across the deaf community and film industry following news of the young star’s death.

Kaylee’s school released a statement mourning the loss of their student.

It said: “It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that one of our TSD seniors, Kaylee Hottle, tragically passed away yesterday in a car accident in Frederick, Maryland.

“Our hearts are with Kaylee’s family, friends, classmates, and everyone who knew and loved her during this incredibly difficult time.”

The school added that counseling and support services have been made available for students and staff as they process the loss.

Her father’s livestream received a flood of condolences from friends, family, and members of the deaf community, while fans worldwide have taken to social media to honor Kaylee’s screen representation and express sympathy for her family.

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Channel 4 star breaks down in tears as she opens up on dad’s heartbreaking death

TikTok star Trewley-Precious has opened up about her private life in her new Channel 4 show Secret Lives of Gypsy Wives

Secret Lives of Gypsy Wives star Trewley-Precious Temple couldn’t contain her emotions.

The social media sensation made an appearance on our TV screens tonight (Monday, July 20) as she let cameras into her family life in the brand new Channel 4 series.

The reality show follows the 26-year-old influncer as she pursues her ambition of becoming a social media sensation while juggling the demands of her traditional traveller family.

Not long into the show, things took an emotional turn as Trewley opened up about her devastating loss. Trewley’s late father, Sidney “Siddy Boy” Temple passed away in November 2022.

He was a traditional, prideful Romany Traveller and Trewley credits him with giving her a proud and rich cultural heritage.

While setting up for her mum Tina’s birthday celebration, Trewley was visibly moved as she revealed: “I like to get her stuff from my dad. My dad passed away three years ago in November.

“Ever since then I always get mum a present from him, whether that is mothers day or valentines day – I’ll get her something from him.”

She added: “He was ill so he couldn’t move so he was like ‘go out and get your mum something from dad will yeah.”

Speaking to the camera, Trewley broke down in tears as she said: “My dad died three years ago of cancer and it was the worst thing. I can’t even talk, I feel like I’m in a different world.”

Wiping away her tears, she continued: “It was absolutely horrible and I was really young, I was only 22 when it happened.”

Tina was emotional as she explained: “That’s been the hard thing, I’ve not even had time to grieve because there has been so many people who are more important than me that I had to keep together because they were absolutely devastated.”

She continued: “I feel like everyone had turned into balloons and they’re all trying to float away and I’m trying to grab the strings and hold onto them and pull them back so I pulled them in and put my arms around them so they wouldn’t go anywhere.”

Speaking to one of her sisters, Trewley said: “Dad was the biggest loss that the whole family has had”. As everyone gathered to celebrate Tina’s birthday, Trewey gave her the gift she bought from her dad. Before Trewley’s mum could even open the present, she broke down in tears.

The family was overcome with emotion as Trewley’s brother Jamie John read the sweet message written on the ribbon, it read: “To my Tinny happy birthday me old girl. Thank you for looking after our babies. I love you in this life and the next.” Attempting to lift the mood, Trewley’s brother joked: “You’ve ruined the whole day, Trewley.”

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

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BBC Breakfast hosts share death news on air as legend pays emotional tribute

BBC Breakfast hosts Lewis Vaughan Jones and Luxmy Gopal shared some sad news on Sunday

The hosts of BBC Breakfast announced a heartbreaking death during the latest show.

Lewis Vaughan Jones and Luxmy Gopal were on the red sofa on Sunday (July 19) to deliver the latest headlines from across the UK and around the world.

Later in the programme, the presenters announced the death of beloved Australian actor Terence Donovan. The 90-year-old actor was best known for playing Doug Willis in Neighbours, Senior Detective Mick Peters in Division 4, and Detective Sergeant Vic Cameron in Cop Shop.

Terence’s son, Jason Donovan, confirmed the news on Instagram, posting a joint statement with his brother, Paul.

The statement read: “It is with great sadness but also a sense of celebration of a long, full life that myself and my brother Paul announce our father Terence died peacefully last night here in Melbourne.

“Obviously, this is an extremely emotional time, and we ask you to respect our privacy. We want to pay tribute to all the wonderful staff at Cabrini Hospital, Melbourne, who looked after him in his final days.”

Jason and Paul added, “Our dad was a huge character. Larger than life. He was our best friend… Our world. We will desperately miss him, but we take comfort knowing we were all here by his side in his final days.

“Knowing that he lived life to the max. Knowing that in life it’s either a daring adventure… or nothing at all! How lucky are we to have a dad like you.”

Announcing the news on the latest episode of BBC Breakfast, Luxmy shared: “The Australian actor Terence Donovan has died at the age of 90.”

Lewis added: “He was best known for his role as Doug Willis in Neighbours, who returned to the show several times over the years. His son, the actor and singer Jason Donovan, announced the news on social media.

“[He] described his father as a huge character and his best friend, saying he lived life to the max.”

Jason Donovan has been supported on social media after announcing his father’s death, with Dannii Minogue writing: “I am so sorry you have lost your father.”

Someone else added: “Sending lots of love to the family at this very sad time. What a legacy to leave, an absolute trailblazer. Fly high, Sir Terence.”

A third said, “So sorry for your loss, Jason and Paul. What an absolutely fantastic actor and man your dad was! Sending love and condolences to you all.”

Another fan wrote: “What an amazing man, thinking of you and all your family at this difficult time.”

BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am

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Death in Paradise star lands new role in BBC comedy after departure

Death in Paradise star Danny John-Jules is unrecognisable as a taxi driver in new BBC comedy Ann Droid, starring alongside Diane Morgan

Actor Danny John-Jules became a firm fan-favourite on Death in Paradise.

He became one of the original cast members when the crime-drama first kicked off in 2011 as Officer Dwayne Myers.

The actor played the role for seven years before his departure in 2018. Yet devotees of the BBC programme have witnessed him reprise his role intermittently over the years, with his most recent appearance coming in the 2024 Christmas special.

Despite handing in his badge upon leaving, fans remain optimistic he might make a comeback in a forthcoming series.

However, in the meantime, he appears in a new BBC comedy, Ann Droid.

It charts the story of lonely widower Sue (Sue Johnston) whose son Michael (Paul Ready) opts to purchase her an AI eldercare robot to provide companionship and ensure her wellbeing.

Yet the robot she chooses to name Linda (Diane Morgan), receives a frosty reception as Sue makes her feelings abundantly clear that she doesn’t want a robot under her roof.

Throughout the six episodes, audiences will witness an unexpected friendship develop between the two as the series explores themes of loneliness, bereavement, humanity versus technology, and growing older, reports the Express.

While the opening episode broadcasts on Friday (July 17), all instalments are ready to stream on BBC iPlayer, with a well-known face making an appearance in episode two.

As Sue encounters her mate Eileen (Kathryn Hunter) waiting for a cab to transport her to her aunt’s 108th birthday celebration, the driver who arrives turns up in a vehicle looking somewhat battered.

The taxi driver, called Brian is portrayed by Death in Paradise’s Danny John-Jules. While Sue points out the hazards of his motor, Eileen tells her to calm down as Brian has been ferrying her about for more than 40 years.

He responds: “And I’ve only been sober for the last five!” Subsequently, Brian shows up once more when he brings Eileen back to meet Sue and Linda.

Before departing, he remarks: “Oh, I need some more customer reviews. Preferably ones above the two stars I’m getting at the moment. Would you mind?

“Oh, and don’t mention I got lost and had four pints at lunch or that I ran out of petrol and we had to walk the last 2km, ok?”

Ann Droid is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

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Hal Williams dead: ‘Sanford and Son,’ ‘227’ actor dies

Hal Williams, a veteran actor known for his roles as a friendly neighborhood police officer on “Sanford and Son” and a hard-working patriarch on “227,” has died. He was 91.

Williams died Wednesday morning at his home in Rancho Mirage, his representative Zna Portlock Houston told The Times in an email on Thursday.

“Hal Williams is legendary for his acting skills, his compassion and his community engagement,” Houston wrote, describing the actor as “an icon and a true professional.” “He never turned away a fan. He was always embraced so warmly, like he was truly their own family, because he was a cultural touchstone who represented an image of Black fatherhood that was loving and steadfast. Offscreen he was a sound advisor, lively debater and devoted friend.”

His death follows a recent trip to Ohio celebrating his work on the NBC sitcom “Sanford and Son,” on which he portrayed Officer “Smitty” Smith from 1972 to 1977.

In one of his final television interviews just days prior to his death, Williams spoke about one of the show’s recurring bits, which saw his character translate his partner Officer “Hoppy” Hopkins’ (Howard Platt) police talk into a vernacular that Fred (Redd Foxx) and Lamont Sanford (Demond Wilson) could understand.

“A lot of the stuff we created ourselves off camera and put it in the script,” Williams said when he appeared with Platt on a morning news show on Cleveland’s Fox 8. “A lot of the times, they didn’t have jokes in the script … because they didn’t know the jargon from the Black community.”

Born Halroy Candis Williams on Dec. 14, 1938, in Columbus, Ohio, Williams was working as a juvenile corrections officer when he decided to pursue his dreams of becoming an actor. He took the plunge and headed to Hollywood in 1968.

“I gave myself three years in California to see what I could do,” Williams told Fox 8. “And at the end of the three years I was on ‘Sanford and Son,’ ‘The Waltons’ and ‘Harry O.’ ”

Williams became a regular television presence, appearing on shows such as “Kung Fu,” “Good Times,” “Roots: The Next Generation,” “The Jeffersons,” “Magnum P.I.” and “The Sinbad Show” over the years.

Besides his breakout role of Officer Smitty in “Sanford and Son,” which he reprised in its follow-up, “Sanford,” Williams is perhaps best known for starring as Lester Jenkins, the husband of Marla Gibbs’ Mary Jenkins, in the NBC sitcom “227.” The show, which aired from 1985 to 1990, was notable for the portrayal of its middle-class Black family.

“ ‘227’ kind of set the bar a little higher because it was a totally intact family,” Williams told the “Today” show in 2020. “It was a mother, father, daughter and they were very positive. There were very few negatives. It addressed all kinds of social issues and it gave oncoming shows the opportunity to explore new avenues and new issues comfortably because the networks and production companies were open to that kind of a pitch idea.”

Gibbs took to social media Thursday to share a tribute to her “TV husband,” who she described as “a generous man who freely gave his time, his talent and his heart to the community.”

“Our journey together began long before 227 came to television,” Gibbs wrote on Instagram. “Hal was part of the original stage production at our Crossroads Theater. … Hal was always there to help. He even secured donated theater seats and helped organize the seating chart because he believed in supporting young artists.”

“When 227 became a television series, I fought to make sure my character had a husband. I’m so glad I did,” she added. “Hal, Regina King and I became a television family that showed the love, strength and stability of a Black family for five wonderful seasons. … Even after the show ended, Hal never stopped checking on me.”

Actor Jackée Harry, who portrayed the Jenkins’ young neighbor Sandra Clark in “227,” was also among those who shared tributes to Williams on social media.

“What a gentleman. Hal always carried himself with grace, and he always had me laughing,” Harry wrote Wednesday on Instagram. “He was also a stand-up guy who believed Black fathers on TV should be loving, present and compassionate. He helped show America what that looked like.”

“For as long as I can remember, Hal has been a steady, comforting presence on our television screens,” Holly Robinson Peete wrote in her Instagram tribute Thursday. “His warm smile, sharp comedic timing, kind spirit and gentle energy made him feel like family to so many of us. … Rest in peace, Hal. … You were one of the greats … a true television legend, but an even greater human being.”

Williams most recently appeared as Autry in a couple episodes of CBS’ “Matlock” reboot.

His survivors include his two children, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Williams was predeceased by one son.



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‘Contender’ boxer shoots self to death, police say

Najai Turpin, a 23-year-old middleweight boxer from Philadelphia and a contestant on NBC’s upcoming reality series “The Contender,” has committed suicide, Philadelphia police said Tuesday.

Turpin died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head at 4 a.m. Monday morning while sitting in his Chevy Lumina, parked around the corner from his house in West Philadelphia, said police Sgt. Ron McClane. He allegedly had had a fight with his girlfriend, who, an NBC spokeswoman said, was with him when he shot himself.

But, in true showbiz fashion, “The Contender” will go on.

Scheduled to premiere on March 7, “The Contender” features 16 boxers vying for $1 million. Mark Burnett, an accomplished producer in reality television with such hits as “Survivor” and “The Apprentice,” is the executive producer. Actor Sylvester Stallone and former boxing champ Sugar Ray Leonard will serve as hosts and boxing mentors.

Turpin, who had a record of 13-1, including nine knockouts, worked at a restaurant cleaning seafood. According to NBC’s “Contender” website, he would work his day shift, train for two hours and then report for another shift at the restaurant until midnight.

NBC spokeswoman Rebecca Marks said the network did not anticipate editing the show to remove Turpin. “The Contender” not only features the boxers in the ring, it also spotlights their personal lives.

Turpin’s girlfriend and their 2-year-old daughter, Anje, are also featured.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as we extend our most sincere condolences during this tragic time,” NBC said in a statement Tuesday. “Mark Burnett will dedicate an episode as a tribute to Najai’s memory and has said he will set up a trust fund for the family.”

All of the episodes for the boxing reality series have already been filmed except for the live finale, set for May. Turpin will be featured on at least one episode and will appear in others, but NBC won’t say how many episodes because it would give away the story line.

“The Contender” website describes Turpin as “extremely soft-spoken, polite and a very motivated and focused fighter.” After Turpin’s mother died five years ago, he began taking care of his younger brother, sister, niece and nephew.

Turpin’s death isn’t the first time television has found itself grappling with true reality. In the Swedish version of “Survivor,” the first member of the cast committed suicide after he was the first person voted off the island. That reality show, called “Expedition Robinson,” was not produced by Burnett. Since then, Burnett has conducted psychological tests on the participants in all of his shows. All the boxers in “The Contender” had undergone extensive psychological testing.

“The Contender” has been fraught with problems since the series was announced last year. Burnett and Stallone were embroiled in a legal battle with Fox’s rival unscripted series, “The Next Great Champ,” after NBC unveiled their plans for “The Contender.”

Burnett, Stallone and DreamWorks cited alleged theft of concept and violations of California boxing laws and went to court to block the premiere of “The Next Great Champ.” But the judge nixed their attempts to stop the Fox series.

Despite the publicity, “The Next Great Champ” was pulled from the schedule due to poor viewership soon after premiering in early September.

“The Contender,” which was initially set for November, was pushed back to this year.

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How ‘Jurassic Park’ star Sam Neill wanted to be remembered

Actor Sam Neill expressed a simple wish for his legacy nearly a year before he died at age 78.

The New Zealand star beloved for his leading role in the “Jurassic Park” films said in an August 2025 interview with The Telegraph, published Wednesday, that he wanted to be remembered for his kindness. Neill, reminiscing on mortality, said this wish was inspired by a painting he owned by Helena Bonham Carter’s mother, Elena Propper de Callejón.

“It is a very sweet watercolor of a funny old thing in a flowery dress and bonnet,” Neill said of the artwork. “At the bottom of the painting is an inscription: ‘But she was kind…’ When I am no longer about, I hope someone will be able to say that about me.”

Neill died suddenly Monday in Sydney, his family confirmed on Instagram.

The actor announced in April that he was in remission after five years of living with cancer due to a new cancer therapy. He battled Stage 3 angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, a rare and aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Neill was in remission at the time of his conversation with The Telegraph.

After news of Neill’s death spread, his collaborators remembered him for his talent and his kindness — just as he had hoped. Laura Dern, who played Dr. Ellie Sattler opposite Neill’s Dr. Alan Grant in Steven Spielberg’s “Jurassic Park,” wrote, Neill “showed me the depths of loyalty, protectiveness and love always with the driest of wit.”

She continued: “He was a true and noble gentleman, wrapped up in my dream leading man. I will love you forever, Dr. Alan Grant.”

His “Peaky Blinders” co-star Cillian Murphy remembered Neill as “one of the kindest, funniest and gentlest people, and one of the finest actors,” while Nicole Kidman celebrated Neill as “one of the greats.”

Neill appeared in about 150 film and TV productions throughout his career. His notable credits include films “The Hunt for Red October,” “The Piano” and “Evil Angels” and shows “The Tudors” and “Apples Never Fall.”

For The Telegraph, Neill also discussed his humble upbringing, how he felt his acting career had been a “complete fluke” and his perspective on life amid his cancer battle.

“I have had the odd brush with cancer, so every day is a bonus these days,” he explained. “Life lesson: never take a single day for granted.”



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Detainees at ICE facility in Texas report frequent beatings and abuses, say rights advocates

Dozens of people held at a sprawling Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Texas say they were either beaten by guards or witnessed others being beaten, according to a new report issued by legal and human rights advocates.

The 84-page report issued jointly Wednesday by Human Rights Watch and the American Civil Liberties Union also says men and women held at Camp East Montana, located at the U.S. Army’s Fort Bliss in El Paso, recounted being denied necessary medical care, forced to live in filthy conditions and fed inedible meals. Detainees also said they were prevented from contacting their lawyers or family members.

Of the 71 detainees contacted over a five month period, 64 — about 90% of those interviewed — said they had either personally been assaulted by the staff or had seen others physically abused, according to the report.

“ICE’s Camp East Montana is a human rights disaster,” said Angélica César, a fellow at Human Rights Watch and the ACLU who was a lead researcher for the report. “The U.S. government should shut it down, conduct independent investigations into all abuses and deaths in custody, and put an end to mass deportations and mandatory immigration detention.”

The Department of Homeland Security, which includes ICE, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The new accounts of violence and substandard living conditions inside Camp East Montana are consistent with earlier reports by The Associated Press and others. At least three detainees held at the facility since it opened in August have died, including a 55-year-old Cuban migrant who was handcuffed and stopped breathing earlier this year after being held down by guards.

A local medical examiner later ruled that death a homicide and a federal report issued last month said evidence in the case was “missing or destroyed.” That report by the Government Accountability Office found mismanagement by the Department of Homeland Security had created unsafe conditions that contributed to detainee deaths and suffering even as millions of wasted tax dollars enriched contractors.

In March, ICE replaced Acquisition Logistics, LLC, the prime contractor that had been awarded a deal last year worth up to $1.3 billion to build and manage the camp. The Virginia company had no prior experience running an ICE detention facility, had never won a federal contract worth more than $16 million and lacked a functioning website.

The change came as an internal ICE review documented 49 deficiencies, which it defines as violations of detention standards or policies, in areas including the use of force and restraints, security and medical care.

Despite the change in contractors, interviews conducted by Human Rights Watch and the ACLU as recently as last month found serious problems at the camp have persisted.

Detainees recounted degrading and inhumane living conditions that included bathrooms covered in feces, flooded housing units and no access to soap or other basic hygiene supplies, according to the report. They also reported being held indoors for weeks without meaningful access to recreation, sunlight or fresh air.

People also described receiving spoiled food and inconsistent meal schedules, with delays of up to 12 hours between meals.

The report recounts detainees saying that guards beat detainees in response to hunger strikes, requests for medical attention and complaints regarding detention conditions. Several people said that guards imposed collective punishment, striking or assaulting multiple people after accusing one detainee of violating rules, according to the report.

Researchers found that staff pressured and coerced those held there into abandoning immigration claims and accepting removal to third countries if they could not be sent back to their own country. The detainees said they were threatened with violence, criminal prosecution, and indefinite detention if they refused deportation.

In some cases, the report concluded, the circumstances of ICE detention could amount to enforced disappearances, a potential violation of international human rights law.

Human Rights Watch and the ACLU called on the Trump administration to close Camp East Montana and to allow independent investigations into deaths in custody, excessive force, medical neglect and enforced disappearances.

“The abuses documented at Fort Bliss are the predictable outcome of the Trump administration’s mass deportation agenda, its brutal expansion of immigration detention, and the erosion of federal oversight mechanisms,” said César, the lead researcher. “People at Camp East Montana are human beings who deserve to be treated with dignity and protected from harm.”

Biesecker writes for the Associated Press.

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Death in Paradise viewers say character fans may have missed needs more involvement

Death in Paradise has seen a number of faces come and go over the years, but fans are now calling for change.

Fans of the BBC show are calling for a change in future series.

Currently, the long-running crime drama is filming its 16th season as the Death in Paradise cast are sharing glimpses of their time behind-the-scenes.

While the likes of Don Gilet, Shantol Jackson and shaquille Ali-Yebuah are reprising their roles, viewers are keen to see some other familiar faces on the programme have more of a staple role.

On a Reddit thread, one person asked: “Apart from Selwyn and Catherine, have there been any other recurring characters in DiP? As in, are there Saint Marie residents who have been brought back in subsequent seasons?

“I’m not really referring to characters who are brought in for multiple episodes to fulfil a storyline (such as Sophie for Neville, or Mervin’s brother, for instance).

People were quick to share their thoughts on the matter, highlighting that the taxi driver is a frequent character alongside the ambulance staff that appear in certain episodes, reports the Express.

One fan replied: “See, that makes me wonder why they haven’t made him sort of a character instead of just an extra. He could add some local flavour to the show. Give us a better sense of island life, if you know what I mean.”

Another chimed in: “I was thinking of him too (the taxi man), but he feels more like a background extra than a proper “character” most of the time tbh. Still wild how a tiny island somehow has infinite one-episode guest stars but almost no regulars.”With someone else adding: “YES. This is what I mean. Why are there barely any locals? It would give the series some depth and breadth.”

Over the years, Death in Paradise devotees have watched a steady stream of familiar faces arrive and depart on the fictional Caribbean island of Sainte Marie.

A host of detectives have led the show, including DI Richard Poole (Ben Miller), DI Humphrey Goodman (Kris Marshall), DI Jack Mooney (Ardal O’Hanlon), DI Neville Parker (Ralf Little) and most recently DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet).

Yet it is only Commissioner Selwyn Patterson (played by Don Warrington) and Catherine Bordey (played by Élizabeth Bourgine) who have featured in the BBC series since its very first series back in 2011.

Sadly, fans may have to exercise some patience before finding out whether their wishes are granted, as the current series remains in production, with the cast currently out in the Caribbean shooting season 16.

Earlier this year, it was announced that the show had been recommissioned for a further two series and two Christmas specials.

Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC iPlayer

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Loose Women star pays tribute to colleague after ‘sudden’ death

Loose Women star Judi Love was visibly emotional as she paid tribute to chef Dom Taylor.

Loose Women star Judi Love paid tribute to a colleague minutes into the ITV programme.

The comedian struggled to hold back tears as she was consoled by her co-stars.

Judi had returned to Loose Women following a brief absence, with fellow presenters Christine Lampard, Kelly Brook and Janet Street-Porter giving her a warm welcome back.

But she had some heartbreaking news to share with viewers. Judi began: “Life, highs and lows.”

She spoke about her recent tour, having sold out Hammersmith Apollo, saying: “That was amazing, it was such a beautiful night. As a comedian, that’s something that you dream of doing so actually doing it and selling out as a solo artist was phenomenal.”

She continued: “But life has its highs and it has its lows, and one of the lows that’s just only happened over the weekend is I lost a dear friend and a colleague, Dominic Taylor.”

Judi paid tribute to the “phenomenal” chef, who worked on her show, Our Table.

She said: “I remember first meeting him and tasting his food and it was amazing, it was a dream to work with him so when he said yes, that he would do my show, I was beyond happy,” reports the Express.

She added: “I just want to send my love to all of his close friends and his family, we’re here for you. We’ll never forget you, Dominic.”

Judi went on: “It reminds you to spend time with the ones you love and appreciate the small things so, it’s a beauty in the midst of all of that I’m back here with you.”

Tributes have been paid to TV chef Dom Taylor, who won Channel 4’s Five Star Kitchen: Britain’s Next Great Chef in 2023, after he passed away “suddenly”, according to a statement released by his team.

Their statement added: “Dom was a visionary whose bold, joyful approach to celebrating the Caribbean cuisine of his childhood brought a fresh and exciting voice to London’s restaurant scene.

“His passion, talent and generosity touched so many people, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him and experiencing his food.

“His passion, talent and generosity touched so many people, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him and experiencing his food.”

Among those paying tribute in the comments, Fred Sirieix shared: “So sad.”

One fan wrote: “I didn’t know Chef Dom Taylor personally, but the meal I had at The Good Front Room at the Langham’s Palm Court for my birthday was unforgettable. Hearing this news has truly shocked me. My condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and all the patrons who loved his work. May he rest in eternal peace.”

Another added: “Dom gave me my first ever job/job in the cheffing world and taught me so much. So sad to hear this news and sending lots of love to family, friends, and staff during this heartbreaking time.”

Loose Women airs weekdays from 12.30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.

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Why has Lindsey Graham’s sister inherited his Senate seat after his death? | Politics News

Three days after the sudden death of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, his sister, Darline Graham Nordone, was sworn in on Tuesday to fill his vacant Senate seat at the suggestion of United States President Donald Trump.

Announcing his selection of the deceased senator’s sister on Monday, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster introduced the new senator as Graham’s “darling little sister” who would “finish his work for him now”.

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Graham had been among the most influential of senators in the US Congress, using his seat in South Carolina to pursue a consistently hawkish line on foreign policy as well as offering unflagging support to his formerly bitter political rival, President Trump.

Among the Senate’s strongest advocates of Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza, Graham repeatedly argued against imposing limits on US military support and rejected calls for a ceasefire. He also pressed for a tougher stance on Iran, championing harsher sanctions, backing military action against Tehran’s nuclear programme and warning that the US should be prepared to use force to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

After dying unmarried and without children, his position has now been inherited by his sister, Darline, formerly active in South Carolina’s local government, but with no experience in elected political office.

So, who is Darline Graham Nordone, how significant is this, and are US political powers often inherited? Here’s what we know.

Who is Darline Graham Nordone?

She is Lindsey Graham’s younger sister.

Graham and his sister lost both their parents within 15 months of each other.

At the time, Graham was 22 and his sister was 13. She went to live with relatives, but the pair remained close as Graham studied law and later served in the Air Force.

Years later, Graham legally adopted his sister, saying the move would ensure she was eligible for his military benefits if he died and would be eligible to serve as first lady if he were ever elected president.

Darline Graham Nordone has never held elected office. Neither she nor Governor Henry McMaster has said whether she intends to seek a full six-year Senate term or serve only as a caretaker until January 2027.

“I promise to work hard over the next several months to support the president and carry forward the efforts of my brother on behalf of the citizens of South Carolina and the United States,” she said in brief remarks during the announcement of her appointment on Monday. “I think this is what Lindsey would have wanted, and I plan to honour him in this way.”

US President Donald Trump, right, and Senator Lindsey Graham speak to reporters on board Air Force One, January 4, 2026 [Joe Raedle/Getty Images via AFP]
Senator Lindsey Graham with his formerly bitter political rival, US President Donald Trump [Joe Raedle/Getty Images via AFP]

What powers has Darline Graham Nordone inherited?

Although Darline Graham Nordone inherits her brother’s Senate seat, she does not automatically inherit his influence.

As a senator, she will be able to vote on legislation, approve presidential appointments, influence foreign policy and help shape US spending priorities.

However, her brother’s committee positions, seniority and political networks were built over decades of negotiating and dealing in the Senate’s corridors of power, and will not transfer to her.

Republican leaders will decide her committee assignments, leaving her to establish her own standing in Washington.

Are US political powers often inherited?

It happens more than you might think.

The practice of relatives stepping into the seats of deceased lawmakers has a long history in US politics, with family members often appointed to complete the remainder of a term.

Figures from the US House of Representatives show that, as of 2025, 45 widows have directly succeeded their late husbands in Congress – including 38 who entered the House and eight who served in the Senate.

Supporters of such appointments point to a long tradition in US politics. Known historically as “widow’s succession”, the practice involved governors appointing the spouses of lawmakers who had died in office, allowing them to serve as temporary custodians until a special election was held. The system also provided an early pathway for women to enter Congress, helping expand female representation in the 20th century.

In modern Washington, inherited seats have, more often than not, served as bridges between one era of family influence and the next, such as the way that the powerful Kennedy family has preserved its influence over past decades.

Has there been any backlash?

Some.

Senior elected officials have yet to comment on Graham Nordone’s appointment, while details of her willingness to run in the midterms remain unknown. However, social media users in the US have reacted angrily to what they see as the unelected transfer of power.

Journalists such as Ben Binday of The Washington Post have also questioned Graham Nordone’s lack of political experience, commenting that nothing is known of her position on key issues such as abortion, foreign policy and healthcare.

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