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EastEnders Sharon Watts star Letitia Dean has famous ex-husband and fans will be floored

EastEnders legend Letitia Dean found love with Holby City star before they parted ways

EastEnders preview: Sharon insists Albie isn’t Phil’s baby

EastEnders legend Letitia Dean was once married to a television star before their “upsetting” divorce.

Fans of the BBC soap will be delighted as Letitia has reprised her role as Sharon Watts and returned to Walford on Thursday (July 9). She is one of the show’s long-running characters, having appeared in the first episode, which aired in February 1985, as the adoptive daughter of Angie (Anita Dobson) and Den Watts (Leslie Grantham).

From that scandalous affair with the Mitchell brothers during the 90s, to plotting Ian Beale’s (Adam Woodyatt) murder, suffering the loss of her son Denny, and covering up Keanu Taylor’s death, there is nothing Sharon hasn’t been involved in.

Away from the drama of Albert Square, we take a peek at Letitia’s real life, including her marriage to a Holby City star.

Letitia’s rise to fame

Born in Hertfordshire, Letitia and her brother Stephen joined The Sylvia Mitchell School of Dance as children before joining the esteemed Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts at 10 years old. In her early teens, she became a professional performer and landed roles on hit shows including Brookside and Grange Hill.

The 58-year-old soap star, from Potters Bar, orginally played Sharon from 1985 until 1995, and reprised the role from 2001 to 2006. She then made an epic comeback to Walford in 2012.

Appearing alongside co-star Adam Woodyatt on the EastEnders spin-off show Secrets from the Square in 2020, Letitia revealed she lied to producers to get her role as Sharon Watts.

Letitia admitted: “I don’t really remember the audition that much. I know there were quite a few recalls. They were looking far and wide”, but there was one major problem.

The biggest requirement to land a role in the show was that the producers were looking for real Cockneys – people from East London who have a Cockney accent, so Letitia lied and said she was from the area.

Letitia continued: “We had to be born ‘within the sound of Bow bells'”, before adding: “I told a porky!”.

She added: “I said my parents had to go and work away, and I was staying with somebody in ‘the sound of Bow bells’. I do remember getting the job and getting the call. I remember that quite clearly. It was just so exciting.”

Is Letitia Dean married?

Letitia tends not to talk much about her relationships and generally keeps her private life out of the public eye.

However, in 2001, she hit the headlines when it was revealed she was engaged to actor and businessman Jason Pethers, who is perhaps best known for portraying Rob Greening in Holby City.

The couple got engaged after a few months of knowing each other and tied the knot at All Saints’ Church in Marylebone in 2002.

While there were many of her EastEnders castmates at the wedding, Susan Tully, who played Michelle Fowler, acted as her bridesmaid.

But it wasn’t meant to be for the TV stars as they split in 2007. The marriage reportedly ended due to a difference in their plans for starting a family.

Talking about their tough separation during another chat with the Mirror at the time, Letitia admitted that she and Jason are ‘in a good place’, despite having parted ways.

She revealed: “I do not regret one minute of my time with Jay. I was in love – desperately in love – and I can’t reiterate enough how thankful I am that I did get married to that man.”

Letitia added: “As a couple you can, hopefully, go down the same path together as long as you share the same desires and dreams. Unfortunately, many of us fork off in different directions.

“This is the first time I’ve ever talked about what happened, but I’m quite practical about this now. I’ve got nothing but good things to say about Jason. But sometimes you just grow out of each other, maybe.

“I did think that by waiting until a bit later in life for marriage, I would know more, and it would last. But none of us can predict. Of course, I didn’t want this to happen, and neither did he, but it did and though it’s upsetting, you just have to get on with it. You have to be strong.”

At the time, Jason’s mum, Joan, said the couple decided to split because Letitia wanted children, while her husband preferred to wait before having them, the Daily Mirror reported.

She said, “They both wanted children, but Jason wanted to wait until he could afford it. She had a lot more money than him. I think, like any man, he wanted to look after his wife.

“They were happy. It was no dramatic thing – they haven’t found someone else. I guess they just fell out of love for the time being.”

Since their separation, Letitia has yet to go public with another romance.

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer

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Mega new £50m UK karting attraction with gondola lift, sky swing & snaking luge ride is coming to famous seaside city

A MULTI-MILLION pound karting attraction is set to come to a major seaside city.

Thrill-seekers will be able to experience the ride in just two years time.

The new attraction is set to come to the Welsh city in 2028 Credit: Skyline Swansea Project
Three luge tracks will be open to visitors to ride Credit: Skyline Swansea Project

The brand-new attraction – known as Skyline Swansea – is set to bring Europe’s first ever skyline luge to the Welsh city.

The £49million experience will see visitors taking a cable car up the mile-long stretch from the Copper Quarter to Kilvey Hill.

Once there, thrill-seekers will be able to ride a three-wheeled luge cart – a type of reclining sled – down a 1,012-meter snaking track, propelling visitors downwards using gravity.

Three luge tracks will be available to ride upon opening, along with a children’s adventure park, a 50mph sky swing, and a 150-seat restaurant with a separate bar area.

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A separate bar and restaurant area is set to be constructed alongside the new rides Credit: Skyline Swansea Project
Walking and cycling trails will be maintained and upgraded Credit: Skyline Swansea Project

The mountain biking trails that are currently available on the hill will also be maintained and improved, with additional trails to be added.

New Zealand-based Skyline Enterprises, the firm behind the project, revealed that construction is currently underway, with an estimated completion date of mid-2028.

The leisure company said their mission was to “open up Kilvey Hill for everyone to enjoy, bringing accessible tourism to the heart of Swansea” and “where the sweeping views of Swansea Bay, Gower, and Bannau Brycheiniog can be enjoyed by all”.

This marks the firm’s first project in the UK, having built similar style sites across New Zealand, Canada, Singapore and South Korea.

The 193-metre hill also remains a popular site for hikers, cyclists and trail runners, with an estimated 140,000 visitors each year.

However, the new attraction is projected to bring in upwards of 450,000 visitors annually, with more than half coming from outside of Wales.

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Competitive eaters weigh in for Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest

July 3 (UPI) — The 2026 Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest introduced this year’s slate of competitors, including 17-time champion Joey Chestnut, at a weigh-in ceremony Friday.

The Friday ceremony at the flagship Nathan’s Famous location in Coney Island, Brooklyn, introduced the 14 men and 10 women who will compete to see who can eat the most hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes at Saturday’s annual Fourth of July contest.

Chestnut, a 17-time champion and the current holder of the coveted Mustard Belt, predicted he will emerge victorious again this year.

“I’m hungry, and I’m going to dominate,” Chestnut, who downed 70.5 hot dogs in last year’s contest, said at the weigh-in.

Miki Sudo, the reigning women’s champion with 11 titles to her name, also predicted a repeat of her 2025 performance, where she finished 33 hot dogs and buns.

“It’s hot, but I’m bringing the heat,” she said. “I was born for this.”

The field of competitors this year features eaters from across the United States, as well as eaters from Britain, Australia and the Czech Republic.

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UK racing track used by famous F1 drivers to become new holiday park with 226 chalets and upgraded hotel

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Aerial view of the Clay Pigeon Raceway, a kart circuit with an adjacent static caravan park, hotel, and disused clay pigeon shooting ground, highlighted by a red outline, Image 2 shows Pole position qualifier Lando Norris and third-placed qualifier Lewis Hamilton talk during qualifying at the F1 Grand Prix of Spain

YOU could soon have a staycation at a racetrack that has hosted Formula 1 stars.

Clay Pigeon Raceway near Dorchester is soon being demolished to make way for 226 chalets for a holiday park.

Aerial view of the Clay Pigeon Raceway, a kart circuit with an adjacent static caravan park, hotel, and disused clay pigeon shooting ground, highlighted by a red outline.
Clay Pigeon Raceway near Dorchester could soon become a holiday park Credit: Google
Pole position qualifier Lando Norris and third-placed qualifier Lewis Hamilton talk during qualifying at the F1 Grand Prix of Spain.
Landon Norris and Lewis Hamilton have both raced at the track previously Credit: Getty

The karting track was once used by F1 drivers Lando Norris, Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button at the start of their careers.

The racetrack is also home to a disused clay pigeon shooting ground, hence the name and a caravan park.

Little details have been revealed about what the holiday park would be like and if the racetrack would be kept, though in addition to the 226 chalets, the George Albert hotel will also be expanded.

The racetrack has been open since the 1950s and was built on the grounds of a disused World War II military hospital.

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It stretches 815 metres in total and, according to its website, has hosted nearly every major championship to tour the UK.

There is also an onsite cafe.

Visitors could head to the track and try out karting, with different options for adults and juniors.

The track is also home to Motorsport Hub, with a pit area, professional timing systems for races and even a spares shop.

Events planned for this year will go ahead as planned including the Daniel Ricciardo Series which is a UK-based karting championship that the former F1 driver launched back in 2019.

Dan Parker, head of Karting Motorsport UK, told councillors: “The venue has played an important part in British karting for decades and has supported the development of competitors, officials and volunteers, clubs and all their families throughout the south west and far beyond.”



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Wimbledon star Eugenie Bouchard’s lavish life from famous friends to jet-setting

Former Wimbledon finalist Eugenie Bouchard is now commentating at the championship

While Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams have grabbed plenty of headlines during Wimbledon, off the court its Eugenie Bouchard generating all the buzz.

The tennis star, who made it to the final in the championship in 2014, is now one of the pundits commentating on the games on the BBC. She has been winning over viewers, with Wimbledon watchers posting comments on X saying she was a “stand out” new addition to the coverage team and dropping fire emojis to show their appreciation.

“From a historic Wimbledon final to crushing the court in a whole new sport, she’s still a total ace!” one posted on the platform, which was formerly Twitter.

As well as her tennis and commentary skills, Eugenie is also known for her lavish lifestyle, from travel to bags worth hundreds of pounds.

Brand deals

The star was a favourite with some big brands after bursting onto the tennis scene over a decade ago, and things ramped up even further after her success at Wimbledon.

She ended up bagging some major brand deals, working with the likes of Coca-Cola and Nike during her career.

Worldwide travel

Eugenie, who has previously revealed that she was named after Princess Eugenie as her mum is a fan of the Royal family, is no stranger to the high life. She regularly shares snaps on Instagram that show her on her travels, whether its glam nights out in Miami or chic dinners in Paris.

The star, who has previously been spotted boarding a private plane, recently said on Instagram that she travelled a lot for work, sharing: “I’ve taken 36 flights in 2026 so far. That’s 1 flight every 3.7 days. The amount of times friends have said to me ‘following your travel on ig makes my head spin’… lol. I’m type A so if I don’t have something that needs to get done immediately, or somewhere to rush off to, I feel panicky inside. after noticing this, I have started forcing myself to take days off, even entire weekends.”

Handbag collection

According to reports, Eugenie has amassed quite the handbag collection, with an array of pricey totes in her wardrobe.

She apparently forked out over £1,000 for a Louis Vuitton bag after pocketing some prize money, and her collection is now said to include a pink Gucci bumbag worth hundreds as well as a Chanel bag worth thousands of pounds.

Pricey jewellery

Eugenie has evidently developed a taste for the finer things and thanks to her brand deals and winnings, she’s been able to fund a stunning jewellery collection.

The tennis star has previously been snapped sporting a gold Daytona watch – which can cost well over £20,000, and she’s also known to wear flashy gold rings including a costly Kenzo.

Famous friends

Eugenie apparently counts a number of celebrities as friends, including The Big Bang Theory star Jim Parsons and fellow Canadian star Drake.

The sports star was previously romantically linked to Jack Brinkley-Cook, the son of supermodel Christie Brinkley.

Coverage of Wimbledon is airing on BBC One and BBC Two, as well as being available to stream on BBC iPlayer



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Kelly Osbourne set for HUGE reality TV return with famous family

KELLY Osbourne has signed up to star in a new reality show documenting her life and personal struggles after the death of her father.

The daughter of belated icon Ozzy Osbourne, 41, used to feature in the much-loved show The Osbournes alongside her family.

Kelly Osbourne is set to star in a new reality TV show Credit: Getty
The show will follow her life as a single mother to son Sid Credit: Instagram / Kelly Osbourne

But this time around Kelly will be taking centre stage in a show focusing on her reinvention as a single mother to son Sid, 3.

Kelly and her fiance, Sid Wilson from Slipknot, split up in March of this year.

She’s since been romantically lined to hairstylist Kiinicki but according to The Daily Mail it’s been an “on and off” relationship.

Kelly’s family and friends, including Lily Allen and DJ Fat Tony, may also be making appearances in the new programme.

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Kelly and her fiance Sid Wilson called time on their romance earlier this year Credit: instagram
The show will also lift the lid on Kelly’s grief following the death of her father Ozzy Credit: Instagram
Ozzy adored his grandson Credit: Instagram
The famous family previously starred in their own show together called The Osbournes, and it reached huge success Credit: Handout – Getty

Speaking about the show’s contract, a friend said: “The deal is done, and the production company is finalising which broadcaster this will go with; most likely Disney.

“It will focus on how she is stepping back into life after the trauma of Ozzy dying last year and after breaking up with Sid. It’s about her rebuilding.”

Kelly lost her father in July last year after he suffered a heart attack in his home in Buckinghamshire.

The Black Sabbath star, 76, had only finished his farewell tour Back To The Beginning a matter of weeks before passing away.

Despite suffering a heart attack, Ozzy struggled with numerous other health conditions including Parkinson’s and complication of a quad bike accident from 2003.

Kelly and her family have since been grieving and doing their best to stay strong.

In December, marking the first Christmas without her father, an emotional Kelly shared online: “Christmas will never be the same.

“I will never be the same. The person I was before he died does not exist any more.

“It changes you. He was magical. There is no one like him.”

The Osbournes premiered its first episode in 2002 on MTV, with its first season being cited as the most-viewed series to ever hit MTV.

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Inside £1billion upgrade at ‘secret’ alternative airport near one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world

A LESSER-VISITED airport is about to get a massive upgrade – its biggest in its 96-year history.

Hollywood in Los Angeles, USA, is known for being one of the most famous tourist spots in the world.

Hollywood Burbank Airport is opening a new £1billion terminal Credit: Corgan
The airport is near one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world – Hollywood Credit: elevatebur.com
Collage of travel items including a plane, sunscreen, passport, suitcase, and plane tickets, advertising The Sun's travel Instagram account.

And most people will get there via LAX Airport – but don’t realise there is also Hollywood Burbank Airport.

The airport is not only closer to Hollywood, but also closer to Universal Studios Hollywood and Warner Bros. Studio Tour.

This October the airport will be opening its £1billion new terminal – called The Icon – which will replace the former historic terminal which opened back in 1930.

The new terminal will be bigger than the former one and have floor-to-ceiling glass windows, filling the terminal with natural light.

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When arriving at the airport, travellers will be greeted by a large canopy and plaza themed around ‘old Hollywood’.

Also inside will be a number of art installations, as well as a sleek bar with views of planes parked up.

The airport is also close to Universal Studios Hollywood as well as Warner Bros. Studio Tours Credit: Corgan
The airport will be themed like ‘old Hollywood’ Credit: elevatebur.com

To get to the 14 gates, passengers will head through an eight-lane TSA security area with modern screening technology.

There will be a central food court with restaurants and shops for travellers, with plenty of seating outside each gate.

The airport is often used by celebs due to being close to Hollywood.

Recent celeb sightings include actress Jennifer Garner and actor Neal McDonough.

The airport itself has even appeared on the big screen as a filming location, including in Ocean’s Eleven and The Office.

Visitors will be able to head to a sleek bar with views of the parked planes Credit: Corgan.com
The new terminal will open in October Credit: Corgan



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EastEnders’ Harriet Thorpe has a very famous family including TV star sister

EastEnders Elaine Peacock star Harriet isn’t the only member of her family to star on the BBC soap

Loose Women: Harriet Thorpe speaks about her ‘famous’ sister

EastEnders star Harriet Thorpe is the sister of a well-known television actress.

As fans of the BBC soap will know, Harriet arrived in Walford as Elaine Peacock in May 2023 to reunite with her daughter Linda Carter (Kellie Bright).

The former Queen Vic landlord was soon revealed to be in a relationship with George Knight (Colin Salmon), Cindy Beale’s (Michelle Collins) former husband. Over the past three years, Elaine has gotten divorced, opened up her own Bed and Breakfast, and enjoyed a romance with Ian Beale (Adam Woodyatt).

Away from EastEnders, the 69-year-old actress has starred in a number of other popular shows, and is famed for playing Carole Parkinson in the 1990s show The Brittas Empire.

She also worked with Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders many times over the years, from starring in eight episodes of their programme French and Saunders between 1987 and 2003 to portraying the recurring role of Fleur in Absolutely Fabulous from 1992 until 2012.

Harriet has held roles in Alexei Sayle’s Stuff, A Bit of Fry & Laurie, Casualty, Material Girl, Endeavour, Midsomer Murders, The Madame Blanc Mysteries, and The Bill.

Away from the small screen, Harriet has appeared in several films, including Calendar Girls, and has worked extensively on stage, with her acting in productions at the Royal National Theatre and in London’s West End.

Harriet previously opened up about her childhood and her relocation abroad with her family.

Appearing on Loose Women in 2024, Harriet discussed all things EastEnders and revealed that she has a famous sister who is an actress.

Talking about her childhood, where her family’s move to Los Angeles, Harriet said: “My sister and I, who is also an actress, Matilda Thorpe, we were little children at a normal state primary school. Do you remember the food? It was all sort of grey? Memories!

“Suddenly I was in Beverly Hills and we went to school and they had an ice cream machine. They had pizza and chocolate milk!”

Who is Harriet Thorpe’s famous sister?

Harriet’s sister, Matilda Thorpe, has certainly followed in her sibling’s footsteps and also has an impressive acting career.

Matilda is best known for her role as Mandy Mosgrove in Desmond’s from 1989 to 1994, before landing the roles of Mother in How to Be a Little Sod and Mandy in Porkpie.

More recent roles include Claire Glass in Sick Note, Nina in One Life, and Auntie Melody in Back to Black, a biographical film about Amy Winehouse.

However, in a coincidence, Matilda’s early career saw her land a role in EastEnders years before her sister Harriet’s debut. Matilda played Rachel Ford on the BBC One soap back in 1998.

Family life

Harriet and Matilda are the daughters of novelist Gillian Freeman, who penned The Leather Boys, and Edward Thorpe, an actor, novelist and the ballet critic of the Evening Standard.

Harriet welcomed two children, a son and a daughter, with her husband, Howard Baker, whom she reportedly married in 1989.

Her son, Jack Thorpe-Baker, previously acted and starred in The Brittas Empire, Life is Sweet, and Ballet Shoes, which also starred Emma Watson.

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer

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Gethin Jones’ love life from famous exes to ‘awful’ split and co-star ‘romance’

Welsh TV presenter Gethin Jones has opened up about his love life over the years

Gethin Jones is a much-loved Welsh TV presenter.

The 48-year-old played rugby union while studying at Manchester Metropolitan University and, upon graduating, kicked off his television career on Welsh language channel S4C, where he hosted children’s shows including Popty, Mas Draw and Uned 5.

In 2005, Gethin became the 31st presenter of the BBC’s beloved children’s programme Blue Peter. Then in 2020, he took on the role of host on the BBC’s weekday magazine show Morning Live, which is broadcast from studios in Salford.

He regularly appears on the programme alongside Helen Skelton, Michelle Ackerley, Gaby Roslin, and Janette Manrara.

That’s not all, as Gethin has also featured on Celebrity MasterChef, comedy drama Stella, and even took to the Strictly Come Dancing dance floor during season 5. What may come as a surprise to some fans is that Gethin once had a very well-known ex-fiancée, so here’s everything you need to know about the star’s romantic history, reports Wales Online.

Who is Gethin Jones’ famous ex-fiancée?

Gethin had a serious romance with Welsh opera singer Katherine Jenkins after the pair first crossed paths in 2007, while he was competing on Strictly.

The couple announced their engagement in February 2011. However, by December of that same year, both confirmed they had decided to part ways.

Reflecting on the break-up, Gethin previously opened up on Tom Bryant’s Outdoors in Mind podcast, saying: “I was engaged and then breaking up, afterwards, or even during that period, it was just awful… I definitely had a bad bout of depression during that time.” He continued: “It was horrible… a lot of what I read about myself wasn’t right.”

Gethin notably sought counselling in a bid to work through his emotions, explaining: “I saw someone, I had therapy for a couple of years and I still do my homework on that.”

Katherine has since moved on with American painter Andrew Levitas, with the pair tying the knot in 2014 and going on to have two children together.

Past romances and rumours

Three years after his separation from Katherine, Gethin enjoyed a brief romance with former TOWIE star Lucy Mecklenburgh. The pair reportedly began dating in August 2014 after crossing paths at a Give Me Sport event.

Lucy later confirmed the relationship was short-lived, saying: “We went out a few times a while ago but it was bad timing for both of us.”

Gethin also dated model Katja Zwara in 2017, and was rumoured to have been linked to First Dates waitress Cici Coleman – though neither have confirmed a relationship.

There has also been considerable speculation in recent years surrounding a potential romance between Gethin and his Morning Live co-star Helen Skelton, though both have firmly denied they are dating.

When addressing the speculation in December 2025, Helen moved to quash the rumours, saying: “We just work together, we are not together. No, no, no. We are just work friends. They printed pictures of us at work and that we’re together because we are at work together.”

Speaking candidly about his friendship with Helen last year, Gethin revealed to The Sun: “We are very supportive of each other, we like to look out for each other. I think that’s fair to say on and off camera. You sometimes could get… you might need a little pep talk every now and then. Because she’s very passionate.”

Morning Live airs weekdays on BBC One at 9.30am

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Village abandoned for centuries with link to famous book reclaimed by nature

The historic abandoned village is steeped in history and is said to have inspired an iconic novel Jane Eyre

Just four miles from Colne sits the historic village of Wycoller, providing a remarkable glimpse into a long-forgotten era, boasting ancient ruins and a compelling literary heritage.

This abandoned village is particularly celebrated for its ties to the legendary Brontë sisters, who made their home in nearby Haworth.

In her seminal novel Jane Eyre, English author Charlotte Brontë created a fictional setting, Ferndean Manor, widely believed to have been inspired by the present-day ruins of Wycoller Hall.

From the 16th through to the 18th century, the hall stood as the village’s centrepiece, dominating the surrounding landscape and almost certainly catching the eye of the author during her travels through the region.

The novelist was known to visit Gawthorpe Hall as a guest of the Kay-Shuttleworth family, and it is widely thought that on these journeys, this striking structure fired her imagination.

The telling clue lies in her depiction within the novel of the approach to the Manor along the old coach road, which bears a striking resemblance to Wycoller Hall. Sadly, today only rubble and remnants remain of what was once a vibrant and picturesque community, reports Lancs Live.

After years of abandonment, local volunteers stepped in to save the village during the 1940s, with Lancashire County Council later taking ownership of the site. Now forming part of Wycoller Country Park, the site is open to all those who wish to explore and wander amongst its historic remains.

Among the heritage highlights, visitors can discover several bridges spanning the peaceful beck that winds through its heart.

Clam Bridge stands proudly amongst these ancient structures, regularly crossed by park visitors, with origins stretching far beyond the 19th century and the era of the Brontës. This bridge is believed to be an ancient monument, over 1,000 years old – and it’s not the only testament to the area’s deeply-rooted history.

Another equally impressive bridge in Wycoller is Sally’s Bridge, which earned its fame by featuring in the film The Railway Children. It has stood the test of time, with origins traced back to the 13th-15th century.

Clapper Bridge likewise comprises substantial gritstone slabs resting on piers, thought to date from as early as the 16th century.

Artefacts unearthed amongst the remnants of this deserted village reveal evidence of human settlement stretching back to the Stone Age.

The site continues to draw visitors today, who come to explore the ruins and uncover the stories of those who once called it home.

Preservation measures are firmly in place to protect its unspoilt charm, keeping modern intrusions well away. This includes a car-free zone, meaning no accessible roads reach the village, which can only be approached on foot, unless you are a resident holding a permit.

One visitor documented their trip on TripAdvisor, writing: “Wycoller is such a cute, picturesque little place. It has a lovely stream for sitting by or paddling in. There’s plenty of shade in summer, from the huge trees.

“There was also a small exhibition, some ruins and well preserved stone bridges. It’s not a long walk but it’s perfect for a picnic and/or for the kids to paddle in the stream.”

Another added: “Beautiful place to go with amazing sights and a lovely shop for snacks and a warm drink. There are also different little trails and bridges to go over and plenty of ducks to feed. I recommend this to anyone who fancies going out for the day to be in touch with nature.”

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Coronation Street Sally Dynevor’s life with Emmerdale star husband and famous daughters

Coronation Street icon Sally is not the only famous person in her family

Coronation Street: Sally Webster returns after DOI

Coronation Street legend Sally Dynevor has two famous daughters who TV fans may recognise.

Sally, 63, joined the ITV soap back in 1986 playing Sally Seddon, who later became famed for marrying mechanic Kevin Webster (Michael Le Vell).

From a devastating cancer battle to her many failed romances on the street, Sally’s 40 years in Weatherfield have not been short of drama. Especially as her marriage to husband, Tim (Joe Duttine), hasn’t always been smooth sailing.

It’s fair to say Sally is a soap legend and has played a part in several big storylines, and is much-loved for her comedy appeal and status as a street busybody.

Away from the soap, actress Sally is loved up with her husband, Tim, whom she married in 1995. Tim is a successful screenwriter who has worked on the ITV soap Emmerdale, as well as on the TV series The Drowning and Desperate Measures. According to IMDb, Tim has written more than 2,000 episodes of Emmerdale between 1995 and 2016.

His last credited episode aired in January 2016 and followed Diane Sugden (Elizabeth Estensen) as she tried to sell her half of The Woolpack, while Adam Barton’s (Adam Thomas) emotional attachment to baby Johnny Woodfield became a problem.

Sally recently delighted fans after giving them a look into her private life with Tim. Taking to her Instagram, she shared several snaps from their recent trip to Iceland, where the happy couple was taking in the glorious sights.

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She captioned the post: “Well, that was an adventure. What a wonderful, beautiful country Iceland is”. As expected, fans and co-stars were left gushing over the post.

Jane Danson commented: “Pretty special I really want to go again. Glad you had a fab time Sal”. Sally Ann Matthews penned: “Oh wowzers”, while Jude Riordan added: “I’m going next week!”

Sally and Tim share three children together, including daughters Phoebe, 31, and Hattie, 22, and son Sam, 29 Both of the girls have followed in their footsteps and are enjoying careers in television.

Who are Sally Dynevor’s famous daughters?

Hattie Dynevor stars on the BBC drama Waterloo Road, playing Libby Guthrie, the daughter of history teacher Neil (Neil Fitzmaurice), and has so far appeared in series 13 – 17.

She also appeared in the recently released gripping Netflix series Legends as Arabella, which also stars Steve Coogan and Tom Burke.

Hattie’s older sister, Phoebe, also launched an acting career on Waterloo Road, playing Siobhan Mailey between 2009 and 2020.

Bridgerton fans will also recognise the actress as Daphne, the wife of Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, played by Regé-Jean Page, between 2020 and 2022. Speaking to Collider, Phoebe opened up about a possible return to the Netflix period drama.

She said, “When the first season came out, they didn’t know what they needed to put in play. We were the ones that got away, in a certain way.

“I can only speak for myself, I would always come back if I was asked. I have not received a call. When I get that call, I will be there if I can.”

She has since starred in a long list of popular television shows, including The Musketeers, Dickensian, Snatch, and Ten Percent. Away from the small screen, Pheobe has starred in the movies The Colour Room, Inheritance, and Thrash.

Coronation Street airs weekdays on ITV and ITVX

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Ibiza Final Boss reveals staggering amount he’s insured his famous bowl haircut for

THE Ibiza Final Boss piqued the interest of the masses after he was spotted boozing it up on the party isle last August.

While most Ibiza goers like to indulge in the lifestyle Jack Kay found viral fame for his trancelike dance moves and good old-fashioned bowl haircut.

Ibiza Final Boss shot to fame last summer after fans spotted him living it up on the party isle Credit: instagram/@jack.kayy1
Jack Kay told fans that he’s ‘not worried’ about ‘staying relevant’ despite his overnight fame Credit: The Sun

He was spotted vibing in multiple clubs on the island last summer and fans became obsessed with how well summed up the clientele.

Jack, 26, who was seen donning a vest, shades, and a blingy chain, was famed for perfectly round trim, which became the subject of thousands of comments.

The former builder has now opened up on the hefty amount he’s insured his hair for – and it’s seven figures.

He claimed: “Obviously it’s my USP so I have been looking to get it insured and I’ve insured it for a million pound.”

Read more on Ibiza Final Boss

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Massive sum Ibiza Final Boss made in just six weeks after going viral

The 26-year-old claimed he’s had his barnet insured for a million pounds Credit: Getty
Jack told The Sun he’s ‘made a killing’ since finding fame and has huge projects in the pipeline Credit: instagram/jack.kayy1

Celebs often get parts of their bodies insured if it’s a huge money maker for them.

While the Ibiza Final Boss’ life turned on its head over night, he told The Sun he’s not worried about “staying relevant.”

For influencers and viral internet stars overnight fame doesn’t usually last long with some desperate to stay in the spotlight.

But Jack, from Newcastle, would be “happy,” if it all ended tomorrow.

Jack said: “I’m not worried about staying relevant.

“I’ve signed a multi-fight deal, my agents got big things happening for us like end of this year starting next year as well. So I’m not worried about that.

“Even if it all ends tomorrow, which it won’t but if it was I’m happy with that I’ve made a killing do you know what I mean I’ve smashed it.”

He acknowledged that his time in the public eye won’t last forever but he’ll certainly be making the most of it two stepping across Ibiza this summer.

Jack added: “Listen nothing lasts forever does it so you’ve just gotta strike while the iron’s hot and make the most of it.”

Ahead of his first Misfits boxing match on Saturday he told us he’s spent two months clean and sober in preparation.

He said: “It’s been what, seven, eight weeks now. I’m itching for one [a drink]!”

Jack will return to the Spanish island – where it all began – later this year and he’s insisted he will be “well looked after,” by club owners.

“Places will offer free drinks, free tables, they offer me free hotels and stuff, yeah. That’s a bit of a privilege, being me now,” he admitted.

His stardom is not over yet as it was revealed earlier this year that he’ll be part of the cast for the upcoming season of Celebrity SAS.

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Emmerdale Dr Todd star has very famous family including Death in Paradise husband

Emmerdale’s Dr Todd, played by Caroline Harker, has been causing chaos in the village but the actress comes from a famous acting family

Dr Todd has caused nothing but chaos since her arrival on Emmerdale.

After bullying young trainee doctor Jacob Sugden (Joe-Warren Plant) at the hospital, Dr Todd, played by Caroline Harker, turned her attentions to Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins).

On Sunday night, Dr Todd sexually assaulted Charity after weeks of blackmailing her over the true parentage of baby Leyla.

Charity served as a surrogate for granddaughter Sarah Sugden and Sarah’s husband Jacob, giving birth to baby Leyla. However, Charity has failed to tell the new parents that she and Ross Barton are actually Leyla’s biological parents following a short fling together.

After Dr Todd discovered this secret, she demanded £100,000 from Charity, and things took a horrifying turn when Dr Todd sexually assaulted Charity on Sunday’s episode.

With Dr Todd currently dominating storylines on the ITV soap viewers may be interested to learn that actress Caroline, 60, hails from quite a distinguished acting family.

Who is Dr Todd star Caroline Harker’s family?

Away from the soap, it transpires that Dr Todd actress Caroline comes from quite a celebrated family. Her mother, Polly Adams, is an accomplished actress who has worked extensively across both the UK and the US.

She is perhaps best known for playing Mrs Brown in the 1990s television series Just William, with further TV credits including Kingdom and The Cinder Path.

In 1975, Polly made her Broadway debut in the award-nominated role of Grace Harkaway in a revival of London Assurance. However, Polly isn’t the only celebrated family member Caroline has.

Her sister is Susannah Harker, who has featured in hit BBC 1995 series Pride and Prejudice as Jane Bennet, alongside Jennifer Ehle, who played Elizabeth Bennet, and Colin Firth, who played Mr Darcy.

Other roles include Midsomer Murders and Grantchester. She also received a BAFTA TV Award nomination in 1990 for her portrayal of Mattie Storin in House of Cards.

Who is Dr Todd star Caroline Harker’s husband?

Caroline is wed to actor Anthony Calf, and together the couple have three daughters: Louise Emma Calf, Cecilia Ann L Calf, and Anemone Georgiana Calf.

The 66-year-old boasts an extensive acting career and is best known for his roles in The Madness of King George, Beau Geste, and I Came By, alongside his appearances in Lewis.

Between 2023 and 2025, Anthony portrayed Lord Brightlingsea in the costume drama The Buccaneers, and has also featured in the film A Teacher’s Gift (2025) and the series Insomnia (2024).

From 2005, Anthony spent a decade playing DAC Robert Strickland in New Tricks, having previously taken on the role of Michael Beauchamp in Holby City (2005 – 2006).

In 2019, Anthony stepped into the role of William Wickham in the hugely popular series Poldark, and also appeared in Doctor Who as Godsacre (2017) as well as Death in Paradise in 2021 as Phillip Carlton. His former brother-in-law is Game of Thrones star Iain Glen.

What else has Dr Todd star Caroline Harker been in?

Away from her work in the Dales, Caroline has cropped up in a host of productions, including Harry Enfield and Chums, Holding On, The Man Who Lost His Head with Martin Clunes, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, Midsomer Murders, and Doctors.

In 2012, Caroline took on the role of Alicia Davenport for a brief stint in Coronation Street. She is also widely recognised for her portrayal of PC Hazel Wallace in A Touch of Frost, starring opposite Sir David Jason.

Her most recent roles include Julia in the Apple TV series Hijack, Bethany Hastings in The Stolen Girl, and Mrs. Taylor-Brown. Back in 2011, she made a one-off appearance in New Tricks, sharing the screen with her husband, portraying the character Tabitha Hall-Chalmers.

Emmerdale airs Monday to Friday at 8:00pm on ITV1 and ITVX

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‘Unreal’ coast with turquoise waters and famous cliffs is perfect trip from London

This location is the perfect day trip from London as you can enjoy the colourful coastline, admire the turquoise waters and hop on board a chairlift with the most breathtaking views

Finding something exciting to do at the weekend or as a day trip can be a real challenge. You may have already ticked off village named the “prettiest in England” or explored another which is untouched with no new houses built since 1600s.

But now if you’re tempted to head down south, there’s the “most breathtaking” ride in England that promises absolutely spectacular scenery. This destination truly has everything – from turquoise waters to a vibrant coastline which feels completely “unreal”. One content creator recently documented his day trip to the Isle of Wight, which is surprisingly straightforward to reach from London.

Samual told his TikTok followers: “I think I’ve found the most breathtaking ride in England.”

In his caption, he continued: “The chair lift at The Needles on the Isle of Wight is honestly one of the most breathtaking rides I’ve experienced.

“Gliding down the cliffs at Alum Bay with views of the famous Needles cliffs, turquoise water and colourful coastline feels unreal. This is the perfect day trip from London.”

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How to get to the Isle of Wight:

If you’re travelling from London, you’ll have to take a South Western Railway train to Portsmouth Harbour, which takes around 2 hours. Next you’ll need to hop on board the ferry to Ryde Pier Head, a journey of roughly 22 minutes.

Any other areas of the UK will require you to drive down to Portsmouth before you can take the ferry. Meanwhile, a journey in the car might take a little longer, in some cases around 3-4 hours depending on what area you’re leaving from.

What to do in the Isle of Wight:

The island boasts a wealth of attractions, including iconic landmarks such as Alum Bay and The Needles. You can also travel back in time at Carlsbrooke Castle, where King Charles I was held prisoner, or hop aboard the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

For family entertainment, marvel at 300,000 specimens at the Dinosaur Isle Museum in Sandown, or let the kids run wild at the UK’s oldest theme park at Blackgang Chine.

Round off your visit by tackling the breathtaking coastal trails, wandering through the lush surroundings of Ventnor Botanic Garden, or simply soaking up the sun at Compton Beach.

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The 50 best staycation destinations revealed from famous beach towns to Cotswolds villages

BRITAIN’S best staycations for 2026 have been revealed, with Cornwall’s St Ives once again taking the top spot and the Northumberland village of Bamburgh in second place as a new entrant.

The annual staycation report, based on a survey of 2,000 adults, revealed Bourton-on-the-Water and Salcombe have risen in popularity while other seaside destinations also saw shifts in the rankings.

Britain’s best staycations for 2026 have been revealed, based on a survey of 2,000 adults, Credit: SWNS
Bamburgh came in second place for the first time Credit: SWNS

Brighton overtook Lyme Regis after climbing to sixth place, ahead of the Dorset town, which has moved from fifth last year to seventh.

Almost a third of adults (28 per cent) are more likely to take a holiday on home soil this year than in 2025.

The research, commissioned by Sykes Holiday Cottages, also found 38 per cent plan to take their main holiday in the UK this year, rising to 53 per cent among Gen Z.

This compares with 34 per cent of adults who said the same last year, while Gen Z’s interest in UK holidays has risen from 45 per cent in 2025.

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James Shaw, chief commercial officer at the holiday brand which launched the annual Staycation Index Report, said: “The continued popularity of UK breaks demonstrates that staycations remain a key part of how Brits holiday.

“More people are choosing to stay at home and prioritising value, flexibility and reassurance when planning time away, particularly amid ongoing uncertainty around overseas travel.

“What’s especially notable this year is the growing influence of younger travellers, Gen Z is increasingly embracing UK holidays, with more people opting for experience-led trips that combine scenery, food, culture and the chance to explore multiple destinations in one break.

Bourton-on-the-Water also remains popular Credit: SWNS
Salcombe has risen in popularity according to the report Credit: SWNS

“From seaside towns and national parks to countryside retreats, the UK continues to offer an enormous variety of holiday experiences, and that’s reflected in the strength and diversity of destinations featured in this year’s rankings.”

The research also found when it comes to budgeting, staycation goers expect to spend an average of £1,171 in total on accommodation, food, travel and spending money.

It also emerged 64 per cent are planning to – or have considered – a multi-destination road trip, stopping off at an average of three locations.

Coastal spots (65 per cent) are the most sought after, followed by rural areas (56 per cent) and national parks (38 per cent).

Tourist attractions (48 per cent) were big influences when deciding where to visit, alongside locations with fond memories (38 per cent) and good reviews and ratings (35 per cent).

Of the 78 per cent hoping for a UK break this year, 67 per cent say they enjoy the country’s scenery and nature, while 48 per cent claim it’s simply the time they have to switch off and relax.

TOP 50 UK LOCATIONS BRITS HOPE TO VISIT THIS YEAR:

1.    St Ives (Cornwall)
2.    Bamburgh (Northumberland Coast)
3.    Ambleside (Lake District)
4.    Grasmere (Lake District)
5.    Robin Hood’s Bay (North Yorkshire Coast)
6.    Brighton (East Sussex)
7.    Lyme Regis (Dorset – Jurassic Coast)
8.    Bakewell (Peak District)
9.    Salcombe (Devon)
10.  Bourton-on-the-Water (Cotswolds)
11.  Alnwick (Northumberland)
12.  Lerwick (Shetland)
13.  Tenby (Pembrokeshire)
14.  Conwy (North Wales)
15.  Fort William (Gateway to Ben Nevis & the Highlands)
16.  Betws-y-Coed (Snowdonia)
17.  Castleton (Peak District)
18.  Shanklin (Isle of Wight)
19.  Lyndhurst (New Forest)
20.  Haworth (Yorkshire Dales)
21.  Dartmouth (South Devon)
22.  Boscastle (North Cornwall)
23.  Oban (West Coast gateway to the Isles)
24.  Brecon (Brecon Beacons)
25.  Wells-next-the-Sea (Norfolk)
26.  Portree (Isle of Skye)
27.  Llangollen (North Wales)
28.  Exmouth (East Devon)
29.  Rye (East Sussex)
30.  Hastings (East Sussex)
31.  Aviemore (Cairngorms National Park)
32.  Hay-on-Wye (Brecon Beacons)
33.  Broadway (Cotswolds)
34.  Whitstable (Kent)
35.  Holt (North Norfolk)
36.  Brodick (Isle of Arran)
37.  Staithes (North Yorkshire Coast)
38.  Stamford (Lincolnshire)
39.  Salisbury (Wiltshire)
40.  Moffat (Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland)
41.  Melrose (Scottish Borders)
42.  Elan Valley (Mid Wales)
43.  Ballintoy (Causeway Coast, Ireland)
44.  Pitlochry (Perthshire)
45.  Kelso (Scottish Borders)
46.  Kingsbridge (South Hams, Devon)
47.  Symonds Yat (Forest of Dean)
48.  Dunster (Somerset)
49.  Luskentyre (Isle of Harris)
50. Anstruther (East Neuk of Fife)

The research, carried out via OnePoll, found 14 per cent have been influenced by a film or TV show, with Peaky Blinders the most influential following its film release this year (11 per cent), set in Birmingham.

Similarly, Northern Island, home of the Game of Thrones prequel, and Northumberland, which was a location for Jurassic World, were also popular (both 10 per cent).

James Shaw, added: “For many people, holidays remain one of the most important opportunities in the year to properly switch off and spend quality time together, even as budgets remain under pressure.

“What this research highlights is that UK travel continues to appeal because it offers both convenience and variety – whether that’s a coastal escape, a countryside road trip or revisiting places that hold personal memories.

“We’re also seeing more travellers embrace flexible, multi-stop breaks, with people increasingly keen to experience more of what the UK has to offer in a single trip.”

TOP 10 UK LOCATIONS BRITS HOPED TO VISIT IN 2025:

1.    St Ives (Cornwall)
2.    Ambleside (Lake District)
3.    Grasmere (Lake District)
4.    Robin Hood’s Bay (North Yorkshire Coast)
5.    Lyme Regis (Dorset – Jurassic Coast)
6.    Fort William (Gateway to Ben Nevis & the Highlands)
7.    Brighton (East Sussex)
8.    Bakewell (Peak District)
9.    Alnwick (Northumberland)
10.  Wells-next-the-Sea (Norfolk)

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Violet Grohl steps out of her famous father’s shadow with a haunted, alt-rock debut

The title of Violet Grohl’s debut album, “Be Sweet to Me,” started as an inside joke.

“‘Be Sweet to Me’ is a phrase that my best friend and I say to each other when we’re play-fighting,” says the rising singer. “It’s what we do to put an end to it. Like, ‘Oh, be sweet to me!’”

The phrase might also carry a double meaning, one Grohl is still parsing. At some point in the naming process, someone in her circle asked Grohl if she was making a plea. Remembering that moment, Grohl pauses to consider.

“I guess it can be seen as a pretext for the album. Just … be sweet,” she says. “But at the same time, it’s literally just what my best friend and I say to each other when we’re calling each other idiots.”

Intentional or not, no one could blame the 20-year-old for inserting an earnest request for audiences to proceed with kindness as she readies her debut album, which finally landed Friday.

The reasons are pretty self-explanatory: Grohl is the eldest child of modern rock icon Dave Grohl, the highly decorated founder and centerpiece of Foo Fighters and onetime drummer of Nirvana, and his wife, former model and TV producer Jordyn Blum. In an age of “nepo” accusations and internet dogpiles, it would be completely understandable for Grohl to feel anxious about her album’s reception.

But if she is, it doesn’t show. On a warm day in mid-May, Grohl appears relaxed and self-assured — but not arrogant — as she idles on a sofa in a cozy Studio City ADU owned by her publicist. Encased in a long, black sleeveless dress, she’s giving a mixture of off-duty rock star and summer goth. Her arms host an array of intricate tattoos; I spot a raven, a skull and a vintage lace fan. Next to her is a bulging Balenciaga mini bag, and a pair of oversized sunglasses on her head are perched atop a mop of jet black curls. The high contrast of her pale, makeup-less skin and swept back hair makes her round, gray-blue eyes appear even more pronounced.

Young woman in a pink and white dress.

“Everyone wants you to be an idealized version of … not even yourself, but of what they want you to be,” she says. “Sorry, that’s just not gonna happen with me.”

(Bella Newman)

Any time spent with her reveals that Grohl is the sort of person who is ultra-sensitive to the energy of places, people and even the long-deceased. In her free time, Grohl is an avid lover of anything paranormal. “The same time I got into horror movies, I started watching ‘Ghost Adventures’ on Travel Channel,” she says. “It totally sent me down this rabbit hole of the supernatural.”

When I ask if she’d ever made contact with any ghosts, Grohl nods emphatically before describing a trip to a hunting estate near the Scottish Highlands. “It is the most haunted place I’ve ever been in my whole life,” she says. “I walked into the house, and it was like a blast of cold air, chills everywhere. It’s this instinctual feeling of, I’m not alone here … I heard footsteps and disembodied voices, I saw shadows, I had crazy f–ing dreams. It’s so eye-opening, but it’s not evil or negative.”

Chilling films and Lynchian surrealism pervade the tracklist of “Be Sweet to Me,” which relies on symbolic lyricism to illustrate coming-of-age stories. From a sonic perspective, listeners will be thrilled to know that her debut does not just make for an entertaining listen — it’s a dedicated towpath to the very squealing heart of alternative rock, built by an artist who understands her music history on a granular level. Across a tight 11 tracks, “Be Sweet to Me” careens across late-’80s and ‘90s experimental genres, from ripping alt-rock on “Bug in the Cake” to hazy dream pop on “Mobile Star” to aggro Clinton-era alt metal on “Often Others,” and even a bit of chugging hardcore on “Cool Buzz.”

As many references as she brought to the recording process, led by producer Justin Raisen (a known collaborator of Charli XCX and Kim Gordon, who made the introduction), Grohl is not attempting to cosplay the grunge era. Instead of simply mirroring influences, she deftly puts her own spin on each arrangement with inventive, grabby arrangements, razor-sharp production and her versatile vocals, which can bellow like Courtney Love, murmur like PJ Harvey or turn ethereal like Elizabeth Fraser.

“Justin has a crew of musicians that he works with, and they’re all close friends of his,” Grohl explains of the album’s backing band, which Raisen assembled to mimic the Wrecking Crew, a loose collective of session players who appeared on some of the most beloved albums of the 1960s and ‘70s. “They’re the coolest, most talented, genuine music lovers, and seriously talented musicians … I’d never been in that kind of recording environment before. Everyone would throw out ideas or I would share a reference, and whatever it was about the song, [we’d ask] how we can build and make it a completely new, different thing.”

Growing up in Tarzana/Woodland Hills, Grohl says she’s been singing ever since she could speak. In a baby book, her mother wrote how Grohl, at 8 or 9 months, was “babbling and singing.” She took piano lessons with a teacher who taught her any Beatles song she wanted to learn. She later picked up the ukulele, and then a guitar. Now, it’s any piece of gear, from bass to drums to a lap dulcimer. “I just love messing around with different instruments and seeing all the different sounds I can make,” she says.

Grohl also had an ideal music-taste mentor in her father, who told his eldest all about Björk and acquiesced to playing Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab” on repeat. “I think I was 4 or 5, and I remember sitting in front of his computer, and he was talking about how she was from Iceland,” Grohl says of those days. “And I was like, ‘Oh, she’s the princess of Iceland. That was my idea of Björk from a young age. Björk’s ‘Hunter’ music video was a turning point for me.”

By adolescence, while on the road with the Foo Fighters, Grohl would make herself useful by assisting the band’s tour manager. She remembers: “I had a walkie-talkie, I would hand per diems out to people, I would run the envelopes around, and bring my dad a towel after the show, stuff like that.” The live-music atmosphere may have also sparked Grohl’s curiosity in songwriting, which she says began as a way of journaling. “I have cassette demos that I made with a tiny one-track recorder,” she remembers. “Then I started learning how to use Logic right before I turned 13, and that opened up this whole new world.”

One night in May 2018, on a break from the East Coast leg of the Foos’ Concrete and Gold tour, the elder Grohl headlined a benefit concert for the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, where he encouraged his daughter, then only 12, to join him onstage to sing Adele’s “When We Were Young.” A few weeks later, back on tour, Grohl jumped onstage to help sing backup on a few tracks. “It wasn’t my first time singing on a stage, but it was my first time singing on a stage with that many people in [the audience],” she says of the second experience. “I was really scared, but once it was happening, and once it was over, I was like, ‘Oh, this is what I want to do. This is my purpose.’”

Woman with black hair in back dress

Chilling films and Lynchian surrealism pervade the tracklist of “Be Sweet to Me,” which relies on symbolic lyricism to illustrate coming-of-age stories.

(Bella Newman)

From there, Grohl became something of a live fixture — a beloved Foos adjunct performer. But clearly one with her own trajectory. In pre-pandemic 2020, Grohl joined the surviving members of Nirvana at the Art of Elysium Gala, where she sang “Heart-Shaped Box.” The next year, father and daughter recorded a duet of “Nausea” by L.A. classic punk favorites X. In 2022, Grohl opened the second tribute to late Foos drummer, Taylor Hawkins, with an aching rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”

It should definitely be said that Grohl is hardly pulling a Jakob Dylan as it relates to her parentage — a detail that actually makes her appear that much more self-actualized and approachable, simply because she isn’t trying to circumvent reality or engage in a furious round of name-dropping. She freely discusses the long evening car rides around Los Angeles she’d take with her dad and two younger sisters during the pandemic, the car becoming a music-recommendation feedback loop, with older and younger generations trading off DJ duties. “My sister and I introduced him to Jockstrap,” Grohl chuckles when I ask what bands she introduced her dad to during those rides. “I’d play him old jazz standards, hip-hop. It was a constant thing.”

During those evening rides, Grohl also drank up the city’s otherworldly, vaguely haunted visage. “There’s something special about L.A. that I can’t fully describe,” she says. “There’s inspiration everywhere, so many beautiful people and historic buildings. I love art about L.A. — when people reference L.A. in their music, movies, or books. I grew up here, and I’ve lived here my whole life. I just feel that deep connection to it all.”

Like any great artist, Grohl is a product of her surroundings, and that can’t help but include a very specific, unlikely upbringing. In her own matter-of-fact way, Grohl shrugs as she acknowledges the inescapable pressure of her last name. “Everyone wants you to be an idealized version of … not even yourself, but of what they want you to be,” she says. “Sorry, that’s just not gonna happen with me. You’re not gonna convince me to change. I’m doing this because I love music, and that’s all I’ve ever known. Everyone’s gonna want me to be something, and I’m not the person that will give in to that.”

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Inside Dua Lipa & Callum Turner’s lavish 3-day Italian ‘fairytale’ wedding with talk of VERY famous performer 

THEY are already two of the most in-demand Brits in ­entertainment – her selling out stadiums globally and him a front-runner to be the next James Bond.

But one week today, superstar Dua Lipa and her movie star fiancé ­Callum Turner will say “I do” at a lavish ceremony in Sicily, cementing themselves as our most high-profile power ­couple since Posh and Becks.

Dua Lipa and Callum Turner will tie the knot in a week at a lavish Italian ceremony Credit: Getty
The couple’s original plan was for an ­intimate wedding, but it is now going to be a ­massive, luxurious affair, revealed our insider Credit: instagram

The Sun can reveal that showbiz pals including singers Charli XCX and Tove Lo are on the guestlist, with friends and family due to fly out on Thursday for three days of celebrations.

There are even whispers that Sir Elton John, who Dua collaborated with on the 2021 song Cold Heart, could perform.

An insider said: “Dua and Callum are both ecstatic that they’re finally getting married. They’re head over heels for each other.

“The original plan was for an ­intimate wedding, but it is now going to be a ­massive, luxurious affair across three days.

“She attended Charli’s wedding in Sicily last year and was really inspired to push the boat out for her own Italian celebrations.

“They have rented out multiple huge venues for the multi-event extravaganza, although the exact details are being kept under wraps due to security concerns, as fans are desperate to catch a glimpse of them.

“The couple have been doing daily workouts at stylish members’ club 180 House in London to prepare for their big day and Dua has been ­telling friends she cannot wait to walk down the aisle.

“It’s going to be a true fairytale ­wedding.”

Dua and Callum, pictured at Glastonbury in 2024, have rented out multiple huge venues for the multi-event extravaganza Credit: Getty
The couple will be saying ‘I do’ in Sicily, Italy Credit: Getty

As well as proving their love for each other, the ceremony will strengthen their position as showbiz A-listers, with the pair expected to bank hundreds of millions between them in the next two years.

Callum will be back on screens this summer in the rom-com One Night Only, but James Bond is the starring role he has his eye on, with the bookies ranking him as favourite to land the part.

There have been ­whispers they could both be involved in 007’s next outing, with Dua said to be in consideration to record the Bond theme, something she has said she has wanted to do for years.

While Callum has been building his acting career, his wife-to-be has been working on her business empire.

As well as making her highly-­anticipated fourth studio album with top producer Mark Ronson — who has been invited to the wedding — she is in the midst of launching her Dua By AB skincare line, which is forecast to become a major money-spinner.

She has also just become a global brand ambassador for Nespresso alongside George Clooney and is expanding her ­editorial and cultural platform ­Service95.

And just this week, she announced a new partnership with Google Maps to share her top travel tips.

Holiday-loving Dua knows all about those, having been on a string of getaways including, in the past month, a visit to Copenhagen with Callum and a holiday to Ibiza with more than 20 pals for her hen do.

Charli XCX, who also got married in Sicily last year, is on the guestlist Credit: Getty
Swedish pop star Tove Lo will also be attending the nuptials Credit: Getty

Among the friends who joined her was fashion designer Simon Porte Jacquemus, the man behind the label Jacquemus, who is believed to have created at least one of the dresses she will wear for her wedding ­celebrations.

Dua previously wore a sheer white dress designed by him when she attended his wedding to partner Marco Maestri in 2022.

The Sun first revealed Callum had popped the question to New Rules singer Dua in December 2024 after just a year of dating, and she ­confirmed the news in an interview with British Vogue last June.

Dua, who completed her 81-date, £100million-grossing Radical Optimism Tour in December, said at the time: “I want to finish my tour — Callum’s shooting, so we’re just ­enjoying this period.

“I’ve never been someone who’s really thought about a wedding, or dreamt about what kind of bride I would be. All of a sudden I’m like, ‘Oh, what would I wear?’.

“This decision to grow old together, to see a life and just be best friends forever — it’s a really special feeling.”

The singer also revealed Callum had her engagement ring made ­especially for her, after discussing it with her sister Rina, who is expected to be a bridesmaid along with her best friends.

Dua said: “It’s very exciting. I’m obsessed with it. It’s so me. It’s nice to know the person that you’re going to spend the rest of your life with knows you very well.”

There are even whispers that Sir Elton John, who Dua collaborated with on the 2021 song Cold Heart, could perform. Credit: Getty
The Sun first revealed Callum had popped the question to New Rules singer Dua in December 2024 Credit: Instagram

But while their white ­wedding is shaping up to be one of the most spectacular in recent showbiz ­memory, they have some competition.

This summer will see a slew of celebrity services, with superstar ­Taylor Swift set to tie the knot with American football star Travis Kelce a month later on July 3.

That wedding is already one of the most talked-about events of the year, with the nuptials of America’s favourite couple potentially even competing with the 250th anniversary Independence Day celebrations the following day.

Selena Gomez, Gigi Hadid and Cara Delevingne are among the many stars who have been invited to the wedding, which is set to take place at a highly secure venue in New York City.

Security is so tight for the big day that guests have been warned they will not be informed of the exact location until hours before the ceremony.

But as the hottest ticket in town, some guests have this week fumed about their “no ring, no bring” policy, after one ­person claimed they had been invited, but told they could not bring a “plus one”.

The anonymous guest told one newspaper: “What am I supposed to do? Go alone? That is so awkward.”

Taylor and Travis started dating in 2023, shortly after the end of Taylor’s whirlwind month-long romance with The 1975 rocker Matty Healy, who she is now racing to beat up the aisle.

Designer Simon Porte Jacquemus, the man behind the label Jacquemus, is believed to wearing one of the dresses Dua will be wearing Credit: Getty
While Callum has been building his acting career, his wife-to-be has been working on her business empire Credit: Instagram

He is also engaged after finding love with model and musician Gabbriette Bechtel, and they are set to tie the knot in July, too.

Unlike Taylor, they have opted to do so on the other side of the country in ­California, where his bride is from. The couple have already spent more than £100,000 on flights for their friends and family to travel over from the UK.

Charli XCX has also been invited to their wedding after marrying Matty’s bandmate, drummer George Daniel.

And Matty’s mum, Loose Women star Denise Welch, has revealed she is relieved it is Gabbriette and not Taylor her son is marrying.

Last July, she said: “Obviously, on pain of death can I talk about that episode, but being her mother-in-law is a role I am glad that I lost.

“Not that I have anything against her at all. It was just — it was tricky.

“She . . . listen, you’re not allowed to say anything, and then she writes a whole album about it.

“Matty has taken it all in ­completely good grace. He’s very happy with his amazing fiancée Gabbriette, who is ­gorgeous. So, we’ve moved on.”

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will also be tying the knot this summer Credit: Getty
Matty Healy’s mum Denise Welch revealed she is relieved it is Gabbriette and not Taylor her son is marrying

They aren’t the only exes who could both be saying “I do” this year.

Miley Cyrus got engaged to her musician boyfriend Maxx Morando at the end of last year and is believed to be planning an intimate wedding.

Meanwhile, actor Liam Hemsworth, who split from Miley in 2019 after less than a year of ­marriage, got down on one knee for his model partner Gabriella Brooks last September.

So while wedding bells will be ringing out at ridiculously opulent and over-the-top ceremonies this summer, you can bet their showbiz exes will be keeping an eye on whose was better.

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