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Wham, Bam, pfft.

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo scored 83 points Tuesday night, the second most in an NBA game in history, surpassing Kobe Bryant’s iconic 81 points two decades ago.

Congrats to Adebayo, I guess.

The way it went down was highly questionable. Nothing romantic or real about it. We thought flopping and foul-baiting made for unethical hoops, but those are but basketball misdemeanors; Adebayo’s big night was felonious.

Tuesday’s game featured intentional clock-stopping, game-extending fouls by the Heat. And it was ripe with free-throw-abetting fouls by the Washington Wizards, an actively tanking team that got itself blown out, 150-129.

So, no. Bryant’s necessary, organic 81 this was not. The Lakers trailed that game against the Toronto Raptors on Jan. 22, 2006 at halftime and actually needed Kobe’s 55 second-half points to pull away for the win.

The Heat were up by as many as 28 points in the fourth quarter with Adebayo continuing to play pop-a-shot in the historic farce — which also moved him past LeBron James, whose 61 points in 2014 stood as Miami’s previous franchise record.

Now a Laker, LeBron cheered the effort on X, writing: “BAM BAM BAM” with a bunch of fire emojis.

Lakers fans were not as fired up, but they were hot, booing when news of Adebayo’s 83 points was delivered inside Crypto.com Arena before the Lakers’ 120-106 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

“Honestly, it hurts,” said Los Angeles’ Erik Ortiz, who was 6 years old when Bryant had his 81-point night. “And it’s kind of messed up. All those free throws? No disrespect, but it didn’t feel earned.”

“A disrespect to the game,” said Robert Horry, who played with Bryant in L.A. for seven seasons. “To me, don’t cheat the game. If you’re gonna play like that, that’s cheating the game.”

“But,” Horry added, diplomatically, “scoring 83 points is still hard regardless if you cheat the game or not.”

Lakers star Kobe Bryant scores in front of Toronto’s Matt Bonner on his way to scoring 81 points during the Lakers’ 122-104 victory on Jan. 22, 2006.

(Matt A. Brown / Associated Press)

JJ Redick offered his most diplomatic two cents: “It’s incredible what he was able to do.”

The Lakers’ coach described walking in and seeing the Heat leading with three minutes left, on the verge of winning their sixth consecutive game and Adebayo on the free-throw line (naturally).

“I said to my coaching staff, ‘Ah, the Heat are rolling.’ And they kind of looked at each other and they were like, ‘Are you kidding right now? No, Bam has 77!’ I watched the last three minutes and … that was a different type of basketball.”

Adebayo scored 31 points in the first quarter, 12 in the second and 19 in the third — a legitimately impressive career-high 62 points, and in just three quarters. Precisely the same number of points that Kobe had after three quarters when coach Phil Jackson pulled him from a blowout win against Dallas a few weeks before he dropped 81.

But on Tuesday, Adebayo kept going, for no reason but to pad his points tally in pursuit of Kobe.

If only Adebayo, well respected by peers and fans alike, could’ve taken the baton from his basketball hero while playing regular old basketball. Lakers fans know ball; they wouldn’t have held it against him, they would have saluted.

Heat players celebrate with center Bam Adebayo after he scored 83 points, the second-highest single game total in NBA history, against the Wizards on Tuesday in Miami.

(Rebecca Blackwell / Associated Press)

But Adebayo shot 3 for 8 from the field in the final period, including 1 for 6 from three-point range. And he went 14 for 16 at the line in the final frame, bringing his free-throw shooting total to a historic 36 for 43 from the charity stripe, so aptly named this game.

There’s magic, and then there are magic tricks, manufactured illusions, sleight-of-hand acts of pseudo-sorcery. That’s how we should remember Adebayo’s 83. That’s how we should explain that game to our children and grandchildren.

It isn’t as though Kobe’s 81-point output wasn’t going to be eclipsed. It was only a matter of time, especially considering the offensive emphasis in today’s NBA.

In 2024, then-Maverick Luka Doncic scored 73 points in a 148-143 win against the Atlanta Hawks. But Doncic went just 15 of 16 from the free-throw line that night, and 25 for 33 from the field, including 8 of 13 from behind the arc.

Or imagine, going forward, what 7-foot-4 center Victor Wembanyama could be capable of if the San Antonio Spurs force-feed him offensively for a full game.

But records are made to be broken, not stolen. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra told reporters he was “caught up in the moment like everyone else, and I didn’t want to get in the way.”

Late Lakers owner Jerry Buss once described Kobe’s 81-point “like watching a miracle.”

Adebayo’s output felt more mechanical than ethereal. Artificial and impure, and achieved by doing something only slightly resembling basketball.

Lakers fans were right: Boo.

EXCLUSIVE: A beloved crime drama is set to return for a third season next week, with a host of “incredible” guest stars

Fans of Death in Paradise are being urged to watch a “cosy” crime drama with a distinctive premise.

Death in Paradise creator Robert Thorogood’s English-set mystery series, The Marlow Murder Club, follows three amateur detectives as they solve crimes in the tranquil riverside town of Marlow.

Judith Potts (Samantha Bond), a retired archaeologist, establishes a club alongside professional dog walker Suzie Harris (Jo Martin) and vicar’s wife Becks Starling (Cara Horgan). Their discoveries eventually earn them positions as civilian advisers under Detective Sergeant Tanika Malik (Natalie Dew).

The trio are poised to return for a third series next week (March 18), which will be presented in a three-story structure, featuring an adaptation of Thorogood’s third Marlow novel, The Queen of Poisons.

Now firmly embedded within newly promoted DI Malik’s crime-solving operation, Judith, Suzie and Becks are back, applying their unorthodox techniques to a series of high-profile murders. However, it quickly becomes apparent to the amateur investigators that their enquiries may strike closer to home than ever before, reports the Express.

The synopsis reveals: “From the sudden death of the kindest man in Marlow, the town’s beloved Mayor, to a celebrity chef found dead at the launch of his cookbook with half the town in attendance, the team will be working under the watchful eye of the Marlow community.”

“They’ll also be called to an eerie manor house in the middle of nowhere, where they’ll face a case intrinsically linked to Becks’ past that could threaten the future of their roles as civilian advisors. Judith, Suzie and Becks will have to pull closer together than ever to catch these killers.”

Since launching in 2024, The Marlow Murder Club has established itself as a beloved staple amongst mystery fans. Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, leading actress Jo Martin, who portrays Suzie, has shared her thoughts on why the programme connects with audiences so profoundly.

“People love murder, don’t ask me why. And the fact that this isn’t this gruesome, you know, dead women everywhere, mutilated. It’s a cosy crime drama, and it’s beautifully shot as well,” she explained.

“You can sit back and feel like [you’re having] a cup of drinking chocolate, you know? It’s like that. It’s like toasting some marshmallows and watching this. You’re in safe hands. It’s a great formula and it works.

“I think people have bought into the characters as well. And the fact that there aren’t many shows where you’ve got, you know, three, four women leading the show. We’re not the wife of, or the friend of, or the dead body – we are leading the show, and we’re all women of a particular age.”

Jo continued: “It’s intergenerational, which is always very interesting, you know… I think it’s wonderful.”

Alongside the returning main cast, series three will welcome an impressive array of guest stars throughout its six episodes. The stellar line-up includes Nigel Harman, Peter Davison, Jacqueline Boatswain, Sarah Alexander, Tony Gardner, Jason Merrells, Harry Enfield, Cherie Lunghi, Adrian Lukis, and Alastair Mackenzie.

Additionally, Hugh Quarshie reprises his role as Professor Darius Gifford, a prospective romantic interest for Judith.

Discussing the significance of embracing their guest performers, Jo explained: “If you’re coming on as a guest, it’s really hard to enter this family… [We want] to make [them feel] a part of it, so they can do their best work. So, yeah, we love it, welcoming new people.”

The actress also described her excitement upon meeting comedy icon Harry Enfield. She recalled: “We’ve had some great artists this season. It’s been amazing. I’m a huge fan of Harry Enfield… When he was on set, we’re all like, ‘Oh God, when can I ask for a selfie? When’s it going to be cool to get a selfie with Harry Enfield?’ Yeah, it’s incredible.”

With only two episodes remaining in the current series of Death in Paradise, audiences may be seeking a new series to satisfy their appetite. This “intriguing” programme that fans “watch on repeat every day” could prove the ideal escape into the realm of murder mysteries, minus the blood and violence.

The Marlow Murder Club returns to U and U&DRAMA on Wednesday, March 18 at 8pm

For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new Everything Gossip website

Death in Paradise fans shared complaints about the latest episode of the long-running drama

Fans of Death in Paradise issued the same complaint as the drama shifted its setting away from Saint Marie.

The 15th series of the enduring detective drama is currently being broadcast on BBC One, with DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet) continuing to investigate a series of enigmatic deaths in Saint Marie.

Shantol Jackson, Shaquille Ali-Yebuah, and Élizabeth Bourgine also feature as Naomi Thomas, Sebastian Rose, and Catherine Bordey, respectively. This series has introduced a new sergeant named Mattie Fletcher (Catherine Garton), alongside an array of high-profile guest stars.

That’s not all, as Don Warrington made a notable return to the show as Selwyn Patterson this year, following the commissioner’s apparent departure at the conclusion of series 14.

Death in Paradise fans were less than thrilled when last week’s episode was pulled by the BBC due to live FA Cup coverage. The latest instalment aired on Monday (March 9) instead, with Selwyn and Naomi journeying to Antigua after Mervin landed himself in hot water, reports the Express.

At the start of the episode, Mervin stumbled upon a crime scene whilst searching for his brother, Solomon (Daniel Ward), in Antigua. Upon entering a secluded cabin, Mervin discovered a local businessman who had been shot. The detective was swiftly struck over the head by his brother, who promptly tied Mervin up.

Solomon and his accomplice Cheech McCarthy (Julian Rhind-Tutt) both insisted that the other was responsible for the crime, and they refused to release Mervin until each one had persuaded him of their version of events.

Elsewhere, Sterling Fox (Trieve Blackwood-Cambridge) made his comeback to the show, as Selwyn and Naomi launched their investigation into Mervin’s disappearance. “Why are you here, Mr Fox?” Selwyn questioned, to which Sterling revealed that he was given a job in Antigua as an officer in training.

Selwyn and Naomi’s frustration intensified as Sterling repeatedly obstructed their progress, before the trainee officer arrested the duo for “stealing” his vehicle.

However, BBC viewers weren’t impressed by the latest episode, as they believed that not much drama unfolded like the typically action-packed instalments.

“We’re only 15 minutes in and I already think this is the worst episode ever. Hope it picks up soon,” one viewer posted on X (formerly Twitter). Another commented: “Well this interesting. Any chance of anything happening anytime soon?” whilst a third questioned: “Is Mervin spending the entire episode tied to a chair?”

A fourth fan mirrored the feeling, saying: “This is awful,” with another likewise expressing: “Script writers I have soooooo many questions.”

Meanwhile, other viewers experienced a whirlwind of emotions as the drama played out, with one individual confessing: “Mervin about to have me bawling my eyes out at 9:36pm on a random Monday.”

Another fan penned: “I swear, if they don’t solve this soon then there’ll be another murder and we all know who the victim and perpetrators will be,” whilst a third chimed in: “Loving #DeathInParadise worth the wait.”

Death in Paradise is available to stream on BBC iPlayer

For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new Everything Gossip website

HARRY Styles’ fans have been left confused after hearing what they’re convinced is an Australian accent from the singer.

The A-list star, 32, was born and raised in Worcestershire town Redditch, but now has a global property portfolio for when he’s not at his main base in London.

Last week, Harry sat down with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe in a rare interview – during which he discussed the death of late bandmate Liam Payne, life away from the spotlight and his new album.

But some fans also noticed a change in the former One Direction star’s accent.

As New Zealand native Zane quizzed Harry on his prestigious 2023 Grammys Album Of The Year win and how he dealt with ‘imposter syndrome’ during that time, Harry’s accent seemingly adopted an Aussie twang.

Looking back on the win, Harry said: “I think, you’re in this bubble of Grammys and stuff. So, you’re like rehearsing and stuff and everything is leading up to that moment.

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“I remember writing myself a letter the night before that I said I would open the day afterwards.

“I wanted to, like, I don’t know, catch myself. With whatever happened, If I was disappointed or if I was feeling myself too much.”

Fans were quick to notice the Australian twang in Harry’s accent, as one wrote on X: “One of my colleagues said Harry Styles sounds like he’s got an Australian accent on the Zane Lowe interview and now I’m watching it I can’t unhear it”.

“why does harry styles sound so Australian atm?” asked another.

A third noticed the same accent during his One Night Only gig in Manchester last week, which was filmed for Netflix: “Why does Harry Styles sound Australian in that @NetflixUK documentary? #onenightinmanchester”.

The noticeable change in accent comes four years after Harry admitted his accent was “all over the place”.

“I think it’s a little bit all over the place because I’m from up north and then I’ve lived in London for 10 years and I’ve spent a lot of time in America and stuff.

“So, I think when I’m with Americans, they don’t think I sound American at all. And then sometimes I think when I’m with English people they expect me to sound American – I don’t think I do, but maybe I pick up a couple bits along the way.”

He added: “But I try and translate for whoever I’m with.”

With his tour kicking off in May, Harry will be doing much more globe-trotting with performances in the US, Australia, the UK, the Netherlands Brazil and Mexico.

HARRY Styles’ fans are convinced they spotted a sweet nod to his girlfriend Zoe Kravitz during the singer’s One Night Only Netflix concert.

The As It Was singer, 32, performed at Manchester’s Co-Op Live arena last week, with the full performance available for fans to stream on Netflix.

And since tuning in on the streaming platform, some fans are convinced they noticed a moment between Harry and his girlfriend Zoe, 37.

The pair began dating last year and have been spotted together multiple times, but keep the details of their romance fiercely private.

During Harry’s Netflix special, the singer is filmed as he walks off of the stage following his performance.

And in a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment, he flashes a smile to someone backstage who isn’t on camera.

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Now, some are convinced that the look was towards Zoe.

“THAT LOOK? I THINK I KNOW WHO WAS THERE,” wrote one viewer alongside the clip from the show.

Zooming in on the clip and seemingly making out someone’s arm, another fan replied: “there’s definitely someone there”.

During the performance, Harry revealed that among the audience were his family — and friends including James Corden and Apple Music’s Zane Lowe.

And he even revealed that the “very special person” behind his track Carla’s Song was in the audience.

However, Zoe is thought to have been in Paris while Harry took to the stage in Manchester – debunking fan’s theories.

The American actress and singer was spotted taking in some couture culture during the French city’s fashion week just two days before her boyfriend’s gig.

During his one-night-only show, Harry performed songs from his brand new album; Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally.

The gig wasn’t without emotion, as Harry held back tears during one poignant moment.

As war in Iran rages, to add to other troubles, Harry said: “In a world like we have today that feels so chaotic it’s easy to feel so hopeless.

“But seeing this room, where there is so much hope, I encourage you to keep being the change in the world that you want to see.

“There are so many dangerous things that feel so powerful but love and kindness are powerful — go out and spread it.

“The world could use a little extra peace right now.”

Mumbai, India – For millions of Indians, the ghosts of a home Cricket World Cup defeat to Australia still haunt their memories two years on from the final in Ahmedabad.

It’s a wound that still stings the cricket-mad nation of at least 1.4 billion people, tens of thousands of whom thronged the world’s largest cricket stadium on 19 November 2023, and millions of others who followed the game elsewhere.

But just as the heartbreak of the “cursed day” brought them together two years ago, local fans hope that this Sunday will give them a reason to celebrate as India face New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final at the same venue.

A stunned crowd of more than 90,000 watched in silence as Australia crushed India with a six-wicket victory at the Narendra Modi Stadium, turning the undefeated home side’s crowning moment into a day where thousands of seats had emptied before the final ball was bowled.

The sombre atmosphere was akin to a prophecy come true as, on the eve of the 2023 final, Australia’s captain Pat Cummins famously said: “In sport, there’s nothing more satisfying than hearing a big crowd go silent.”

“The 2023 final defeat is still on our minds,” Sounak Biswas, a 29-year-old fan from Mumbai, told Al Jazeera. “Social media posts calling the Ahmedabad stadium a bad omen keep reinforcing that thought.

“On Sunday, I hope I can forget those bad memories and create happier ones.”

Cautious optimism

The collective mood of the country – from fans to experts and the media – is optimistic.

Oddsmakers have given India a 70 percent chance of defeating New Zealand to become the first host nation to retain its title, local media have thrown their weight behind Suryakumar Yadav’s team to cross the final hurdle and cricket chatter has taken centre stage at workplaces, homes and outdoor gatherings.

Come Sunday, fans will throng pubs, roadside cafes and restaurants from Mumbai to Kolkata and Chennai to Chandigarh to catch the action on large screens or their smartphones. While those without internet access will gather outside electronics stores, a pane of glass separating them from the live broadcast playing on the high-end televisions inside.

Then there are those fans who will undertake journeys from all corners of the country to Ahmedabad in order to watch the action from up close and soak in the atmosphere of a World Cup final.

Mumbai-based fan Biswas and his friend Piyush Nathani will join another 30 or so members of the “North Stand Gang” – a hardcore fan group from the Wankhede Stadium – as they carry their support to the neighbouring state.

For Nathani, Sunday’s final will cap an exhilarating journey of watching the monthlong tournament across stadiums in India and Sri Lanka.

Through the ups and downs of Team India’s campaign, he has held on to one small ritual and he won’t change it for the big match.

“I wear the same jersey and pair of trousers for every game,” the 29-year-old said.

Squad depth to India’s rescue

India’s route to the final included its fair share of hiccups: the co-hosts didn’t look their strongest against minnows USA in their opening game, fell to South Africa in the next stage and were pushed to the brink by England in the semifinals.

But in their pursuit of victory, a different player stepped up as the team began to falter.

From the ever-reliable pace-bowling star Jasprit Bumrah and versatile all-rounder Hardik Pandya to young wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan and the stunning Sanju Samson, who made a sparkling return to the playing XI, India never fell short of match-winners.

“The Indian team is by far the best in the tournament because of the quality in the squad,” Indian cricketer and TV analyst Aditya Tare told Al Jazeera ahead of the final.

“There were moments when the team was under pressure, but they showed character, picked themselves up from tough situations and finished games off.

“The biggest example of the squad’s depth is Sanju Samson. He didn’t get a spot in the playing XI for a few games, but the moment he got in, he picked up two player of the match awards. That goes to show that India isn’t reliant on just one or two players [to win matches].”

‘Pressure is privilege’

Suryakumar’s team will undoubtedly carry the hopes of more than 1.4 billion people at home and millions of Indian diaspora watching elsewhere in the world, with Sunday’s result shaping the mood of the nation the next morning – whether Indians wake up brimming with joy or grappling with another heartbreak.

For some fans, however, that pressure is not a burden but a sign of how deeply the team is loved.

“I think pressure is a privilege,” Aritra Mustafi, a fan from Bengaluru, said of the expectations the team carries. “If 90,000 fans turn up again, and it puts the team under pressure, it’s a privilege [for the players] that so many are supporting them.”

The venue has been a major part of the discourse in the run-up to the final. The decision to stage another World Cup final at the 132,000-capacity Narendra Modi Stadium instead of the traditional homes of Indian cricket – Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium or Kolkata’s Eden Gardens – has prompted debate among fans online.

Those who have attended matches there believe the vast stadium gives more supporters a chance to witness India playing for another world title.

“From a fan atmosphere perspective, Gujarat might not be the best place, but stadium-wise it’s pretty good because of the crowd management,” said Mustafi, who attended two matches in Ahmedabad during the 50-over World Cup in 2023. “There are concerns about how such a huge crowd will enter and exit, but during my last visit, I did not face any issues.”

Watching your team lift a trophy on the grandest stage is a dream for many fans, and Hyderabad-based Praketh Reddy is no different.

“I want to experience how it feels to watch India win the World Cup,” he said. “Singing our national song — Vande Mataram — with a 100,000-strong crowd will be incredible. If we win, the post-match celebrations will go on late … I don’t think I’ll make it back to my hotel until about 3am!”

For Biswas, the final also carries a personal significance: it falls a day after his birthday, and a victory would be the sweetest present.

“When the captain of our country lifts the trophy, it will be a dream come true,” he said.

HARRY Styles recently dropped his new album, Kiss All The Time, Disco Occasionally, and fans have been in detective mode attempting to decode who his songs are about.

And they feel they’re worked some of the inspiration behind songs out, after decoding lyrics they describe as “heartbreaking”.

Harry’s new track Paint By Numbers sees him sing vulnerably, acknowledging a failed past relationship as well as the status of his own celebrity.

Among the difficulties of stardom and heartbreak, he’s reaching out for a glimpse of humanity.

He croons lyrics including: “It’s a little bit complicated when they put an image in your head, and now you’re stuck with it.”

But fans are convinced a later part of the song is directly reflecting on his relationship with former flame Olivia Wilde.

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The part goes: “Holding the weight of the American children whose hearts you break.

“Was it a tragedy when you told her, ‘I’m not even 33’?”

The couple shared a ten year age gap, which the reference to not even being in his 30s could be pointing towards.

Fans also took to X to decode whether another track on the album called Season 2 Weight Loss is about his past relationship with Kendall Jenner.

Harry dated the model on and off for years in a messy situationship.

So hearing lyrics like: “Do you love me now?” instantly sent fans typing.

One fan gushed in response to the possible link: “HARRY STYLES OH MY GOD,” followed by some sobbing face emojis.

Though later in the song Harry sings about “coming back as a stronger version” of himself, possibly referencing the end of the cycle of on-and-off dating.

The deciphering comes after Harry’s tour ticket sales encountered frustrating mishaps for fans.

In addition to being set to perform 12 shows in Wembley Stadium, Harry had one gig booked at Manchester‘s Co-op Live in due to play this month.

Though many fans woke up to find their tickets to the event cancelled and refunded.

Ticketmaster released a statement on the decision to axe the tickets, explaining that some customers managed to purchase tickets they shouldn’t have been able to buy in the first place.

These include many of the £20 tickets which were later resold on other ticket selling sites, and therefore were no longer eligible for use at the venue.

Ticketmaster explained: “We’re working with the Harry Styles ‘One Night Only’ team to cancel and refund any orders that have violated the rules of sale.

“As all tickets are non-transferable, any tickets listed on unauthorised resale sites are void and will not get fans into the show – so we’re cancelling and refunding these.

“There is also a ticket limit of 2 tickets per person, so any orders above that are being cancelled and refunded.”

The majority of the voided tickets appear to have been sold on Viagogo.

Sam Aston has played Chesney Brown on Coronation Street for several years and the star has two actor siblings who have also set foot on the cobbles

Sam Aston is a Coronation Street legend playing Chesney Brown and it turns out talent runs in his family.

Actor Sam shot to fame when he was just 10 years old playing Chesney on the ITV soap.

He made his debut in 2003, rocking up to the cobbles as the son of Cilla Battersby-Brown (Wendi Peters) and the half-brother of Fiz Stape (Jennie McAlpine).

Like many child stars, the actor grew up on the show and has had a series of intense storylines including being held hostage, constantly getting dumped and becoming a father of five.

Sam has gone down a treat with Corrie fans over the years. So much so, that he bagged an award of Best Newcomer at the National Television Awards in 2004.

He also picked up Best Dramatic Performance for a Young Actor at the British Soap Awards the following year.

And it turns out soap stardom runs in his family, as his brother Joseph is also a soap star.

Joseph was the second actor to play Tommy Duckworth, the grandson of iconic characters Jack and Vera Duckworth, back in 2000. Also, Sam’s other brother Thomas is an actor and has appeared in episodes of Casualty and The Bill.

What’s more, Sam’s sister Emily, also appeared on Coronation Street back in the nineties. She played Becky Palmer on the ITV soap, between 1996 and 1997 in 51 episodes. Since then, she’s gone on to star in the likes of BBC soap Doctors, This Is England ‘88 and Hollyoaks.

Reacting to Sam’s sister’s stint on Corrie, fans have been left floored. On a Corrie Facebook fan page, one person said: “Wow!! The girl that played Becky (daughter of one of Des’ girlfriends) is actually Chesneys (Sam Aston) real sister!!.”

Someone else said: “Spit of each other aint they.” A third agreed and wrote: “Now you said you can see it wow.” Another person chimed in and proclaimed: “U can tell!!!” A fifth penned: “Shes so like him.”

**For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new ** Everything Gossip ** website**

In 2023, Sam opened up on how his soap star siblings have helped him on the soap, in particular with his character being a dad-of-five. Speaking to The Mirror and other press, he said: “Because I grew up in a big family anyway, l’ve always been used to the chaos.”

He added: “I’ve got five sisters, three brothers. So I’m used to a lot of people being around in the house and children and all sorts. So it’s not as crazy as it sounds. I don’t think it’s as crazy as what it could be when you initially think there’s four babies on set.

“I think it’s harder if anything when there’s newborns and we were brand new to it. Because I’ve got two kids myself, maybe I am a bit more calm in that situation.”

Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX

The beloved period drama has been hailed by audiences online and compared to Downton Abbey and Sherlock Holmes

Fans of period drama have been met with bittersweet news following the recent confirmation that a cherished series will be making a comeback – but for one final outing only.

This announcement follows previous excitement surrounding a WWII film due for release later this year and a Netflix period drama series drawing comparisons to HBO’s Chernobyl, reports the Express.

The costume drama has previously earned acclaim from one IMDb reviewer who described it as “One of the best”. They highlighted how the lead performer was an “absolute master at facial expressions”.

They continued: “IMHO this series continues to get stronger and is one of the best things produced for network TV. I am hoping this will be as long lived as some of the classic British shows like Vera and Silent Witness [sic].”

Another viewer wrote in their 10/10 assessment: “A wonderful TV detective story that bridges 21 century sensibilities with the horrible conditions of Victorian England, with its pollution, gender and class inequalities, poverty, etc.”

They further commended the programme: “What truly makes this show exceptional are the costumes, the sets, the great chemistry between the two protagonist, and the relationships amongst the other characters that slowly develops throughout the six episodes [sic].”

A third 10/10 review declared: “Fresh look, captivating plot, beautifully portrayed characters, real feel of old atmosphere, close attention to detail.”

The admirer revealed they were “totally hooked” by the production.

A third glowing review, titled “Amazing period piece”, saw the reviewer enthuse: “I joined PBS for this great masterpiece.

“The tension between the lead actors keeps me coming back for more. In this Downton Abbey meets Sherlock Holmes drama, each episode brings a more compelling reason to keep coming back for more.”

Miss Scarlet is set to wrap up after its upcoming seventh season, having first graced our screens in 2020.

The series features Peaky Blinders actress Kate Phillips in the starring role of Eliza Scarlet, the first female detective in Victorian London.

Not only has Miss Scarlet been solving mysteries, but she’s also been shattering the glass ceiling with her work throughout the city.

In a statement obtained by Deadline, the show’s creator Rachael New expressed: “Making Miss Scarlet has been the greatest joy of my professional career.

“Every stage of this beautiful show – from the writing, filming, editing and finally it reaching the screen – it has taken a whole village. A village of exceptionally talented people.

“From the wonderful exec team who first saw the potential in this story, to my brilliant writing partner Ben Edwards, the Belgrade production team, the Dublin post team and not least to our remarkable cast led by the magnificent Kate Philips, it has been a collaborative and beautiful experience.

“I’m very proud of how the final season plays out and the story we tell for Eliza.”

She added: “It’s a wrench to say goodbye to a character that I have lived and breathed for all these years, but Eliza will forever be with me whether on screen or off.”

Meanwhile, leading actress Phillips remarked: “What a journey this has been. Miss Scarlet has been one of the greatest joys of my career, and I will forever be grateful to Rachael New for creating such a witty, sharp, and delightful character in Eliza.

“It’s been a privilege to work on a show crafted with so much love and dedication and as we prepare to say goodbye, I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved and the memories we’ve made.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported us – I can’t wait to share the farewell Miss Scarlet deserves.”

Alongside Phillips, Miss Scarlet – formerly known as Miss Scarlet and the Duke – also features Tom Durant-Pritchard, Paul Bazely, Tim Chipping, Evan McCabe, Felix Scott, Cordelia Bugeja, and Ansu Kabia.

Production is currently underway in Serbia on series seven’s final six episodes of the drama.

Miss Scarlet is available to stream on UKTV’s U.

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AMY Childs has made a plea to fans about her secret family tragedy.

The Towie icon, 35, is asking her followers to share or donate to her cousin’s fundraising page after her five-month-old daughter Lila was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain tumour.

Amy’s cousin has shared how they are now “out of options” following Lila undergoing 9-hour brain surgery and the tumour since returning.

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Amy shared a screengrab of the JustGiving page and wrote about her family’s ongoing tragedy.

“Please, if you can, help support my cousin’s beautiful daughter Lila,” Amy touchingly penned.

She continued: “She’s fighting so hard and every donation makes a difference.

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“Even sharing this means a lot. Thank you all so much.”

On the JustGiving page, Amy’s cousin Hannah opened up about the ordeal in depth.

“Our beautiful little Lila is only 5 months old and been through more in her little life than any adult we know. Our brave girl, our little lion cub,” she began.

“Lila was diagnosed at 3 weeks old with ATRT – a rare and aggressive brain tumour.

“She underwent 9 hour brain surgery at just 3 weeks old, and started chemotherapy at just 5 weeks old. And that is really just the surface.

“What one tiny baby has endured in her 5 months of life has taught us some serious life lessons.”

ATRT is also known as atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor.

It is a rare, fast-growing, and highly aggressive cancerous tumour that develops in the brain and spinal cord of children aged 3 and younger.

Brain Tumour Research states: “ATRTs are classified as embryonal tumours, meaning that they develop from stem cells that helped the embryo to form in the womb, but have unfortunately remained active in the brain after birth.

“When these stem cells fail to stop dividing and developing after the child is born, they can form a cancerous tumour.”

On Amy’s cousin’s fundraising page, Lila’s mum Hannah went on to add: “Lila is the strongest baby girl, already defied all the odds, she has done everything that has been asked of her.. but unfortunately after 6 rounds of chemotherapy, an MRI showed the tumour has returned.

“We were told that treatment would not continue and we were out of options.”

Hannah then revealed that she and her partner “lived in hospital for four months” and were separated from their three other children during this time.

She explained how they have now been living in a children’s hospice for two weeks.

“Our lives have been turned upside down and we are devastated,” she added.

She then explained how they have reached out to an oncologist in Toronto, who is leading on research in ATRT, for a second opinion on Lila.

“We have no idea if there are any options for us, what they could be and how much it might cost us.

“The target is therefore completely random – but if by some miracle, they come through with something for us to try and it comes down to finances, we need to be prepared. Time is not on our side,” she went on.

Concluding her moving plea, Hannah went on to add: “Be assured your donations will not go to waste.

“If our efforts don’t pay off, your donations will be given generously to the lovely charities who have supported us during this time.”

At the time of publication, Amy’s cousin had raised £24,350 of her £25,000 goal.

Good Morning Britain star Kate Garraway was joined by Paul Brand during Thursday’s live show

Fans of Good Morning Britain have said the same thing after a hosting shake-up during the latest live show.

Thursday’s (March 5) edition of the hit ITV programme was hosted by Kate Garraway, with Paul Brand stepping in to co-present alongside her.

They were joined in the studio by Laura Tobin, who presented regular weather forecasts throughout the show, while Ranvir Singh handled the rest of the day’s news.

The show’s viewers were delighted to see Paul step in, with many sharing their reactions on X (formerly Twitter). “#GMB Quality this morning with @PaulBrandITV. Praise be!”

Another added: “Nice to see Paul on GMB today,” while a third said: “Paul and Kate!”

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As It Was singer and former One Direction star Harry Styles took to the stage to open the Brit Awards 2026 live from Manchester on Saturday, with fans admitting they were ‘shaking’

It’s safe to say Harry Styles impressed fans with his performance at the Brit Awards.

The As It Was and Sign of the Times singer, and former One Direction star, opened the live ceremony on ITV1 and ITVX on Saturday night. He performed his new track Aperture after recently announcing the release of his fourth album would be very soon.

Marking his return to music, the singer took to the stage to kick things off, the performance no doubt gave fans a peak of what to expect with his upcoming world tour. Amid a backlash from many viewers about the prices of his tour tickets, Harry won over viewers with his vocals and choreography.

In fact, fans claimed they were “shaking” and “going to be sick” after watching it live. Taking to social media, one fan said: “Wish I could be normal but unfortunately I’m literally shaking over Harry Styles performing at the Brits.” Another said: “I AM SHAKING,” as a third added: “I’M GONNA BE SICK.”

READ MORE: Ant and Dec vow never to host ‘nightmare’ Brit Awards again and hint at Chris Martin rowREAD MORE: NEED TO KNOW: Brit Awards how to watch, start time, what to expect and nominees

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A fourth fan said: “HE IS A PERFORMER,” as a fifth said: “HARRY IS SO BACK THAT WAS INSANE.” A further post read: “Harry sounds GOOD. Aperture live is such a vibe.”

Another fan commented: “OMG DID HE HAVE TEARS IN HIS EYES!?? HARRY STYLES IS SO BACK.” A final tweet read: “Ok Harry actually ate that choreo.”

It was revealed the awards would take place in a new home on Saturday night, at the Co-op Live in Manchester. Artists revealed to be performing included Olivia Dean, Wolf Alice, EJAE, Audrey Nuna and REI AMI, the singing voices of HUNTR/X (filmed in advance of The BRIT Awards).

Alex Warren, Mark Ronson, ROSALÍA, SOMBR and RAYE were also confirmed. Mark was also revealed to be receiving an award for his outstanding contribution to music, while Noel Gallagher was said to be receiving a songwriting award.

Speaking of honours, it had also been revealed that tributes would be made to some of the lost music acts who have recently passed away. Ozzy Osbourne is set to be honoured with Robbie Williams fronting a super group paying tribute to the star. It comes seven months after the Black Sabbath frontman died aged 76.

The performance will be a special arrangement of ‘No More Tears’ – the title track from Ozzy’s multi-million selling 1991 album of the same name. It was curated by Ozzy’s wife, Sharon Osbourne, and will boast a phenomenal line up of British and international musical talent.

It will feature musicians that played as part of Ozzy’s band over the years, including Adam Wakeman, Robert Trujillo , Tommy Clufetos and Zakk Wylde. The makeshift group will be fronted by Robbie, who was invited personally by Sharon to be part of this special moment.

BRIT Awards bosses are also set to honour Stone Roses bassist Mani at Saturday night’s show – led by Charlatans legend Tim Burgess. Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield died suddenly aged 63 last November, and close pal Tim will be on hand to deliver an emotional speech.

A source said: “Tim is set to present the In Memoriam section, but before he does so, he is primed to talk about Mani who was both a dear friend and mentor. The fact that Mani was from Manchester too – and the awards is being held there for the first time – means it will be a really special moment. Mani will then feature heavily in the section, as will other greats we have lost including Ozzy Osbourne.”

Ahead of the ceremony, three acts had received the most nominations. They were Olivia Dean and Lola Young with five nominations apiece, and Sam Fender trailing closely on four nominations following his Mercury Prize success.

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Emmerdale viewers were left “devastated” after things got worse for Bear Wolf on Friday night’s episode of the ITV soap after everything the fan favourite has already been through

Emmerdale fans were left “devastated” after things got worse for Bear Wolf on Friday night’s episode of the ITV soap. The former professional wrestler, who has been played by Joshua Richards since 2019, has been through the mill in recent months, having become a victim of modern slavery at the hands of evil Celia Daniels and Ray Walters on their farm.

In January, as part of a major flashback week, it was revealed that Bear had killed Ray following his imprisonment and after being released on bail, he has been struggling with his guilt ever since, struggling to sleep and turning to alcohol to cope.

On the latest episode of the Yorkshire-based serial, Bear tried to obtain painkillers from GP Manpreet Sharma but she refused to give him them, aware that he had been given opium whilst in slavery and therefor unable to have any. Turning to drink, an angry Bear injured himself when he punched a mirror and took himself off to hospital.

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Once there, he begged Jacob Gallagher (Joe Warren-Plant) to prescribe him painkillers, but he reminded him that as a student doctor, he would not be able to, although he did help him with his cut hand. Not being able to get painkillers enraged bear, and he grabbed the young medic and held him in the same wrestling pose he used to strangle Ray to death.

Jacob kicked a trolley and the loud noise startled Bear so much that he came to his senses and stopped the attack, but it was then that Bear’s son Paddy (Dominic Brunt) arrived, along with his wife Mandy (Lisa Riley), and told him that the police were on their way to take action. Following the ordeal, Doctor Todd (Caroline Harker) cornered Jacob and demanded an explanation as to how the student doctor had ended up in that position to begin with.

She raged: “You didn’t think at all. In fact, for a supposedly intelligent young man, you really are remarkably stupid. You cannot let personal relationships affect patient care.

“You seem to think the fact that you know someone means you can ignore all our protocols. But if you carry on behaving so irresponsibly in my department, I will have you removed from the course!” She later changed her tune, and sent Jacob off to the canteen to get a coffee and recharge. But it had all proven too much for him, as he took himself off to the toilet, looked in the mirror and cried.

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In the final moments of the episode, Paddy and Mandy wondered where Bear had gone as he was nowhere to be found, and no one had seen him either. Already worried about his father, who was missing for months before being discovered within the slave ring, Paddy began to panic as he realised he didn’t have his phone with him and had likely wandered off into the night. Sure enough, in the final shot of the episode, Bear was seen wandering through the city.

Fans instantly took to social media to react to the sad twist, with one writing on X: “An appreciation tweet for the fantastic Joshua Richards! Seeing Bear’s gradual decline in his mental health since Ray’s death has been devastating to watch. I hope this storyline leads to Bear being sectioned and getting the help he needs.”

Another said: “Bear walking through the streets alone[crying emoji] This reminds me of April’s life on the streets episode from last year,” whilst a third wrote: “The way that nurse speaks to Jacob is vile! [angry face emoji] Bear is mentally unwell and Jacob was only trying to help him.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok ,Snapchat ,Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

Gogglebox aired a gruesome moment on Friday’s episode as they aired scenes from Alice Roberts: Our Hospital Through Time

The Gogglebox cast were left screaming on Friday’s episode after watching a squeamish moment during Alice Roberts: Our Hospital Through Time.

During the latest instalment, the cast members caught up with the latest television shows, which included Alice Roberts: Our Hospital Through Time.

The Channel 5 show sees Professor Alice Roberts explore 900 years of St Bartholomew’s Hospital – Britain’s oldest on its original site. From medieval miracle cures to modern cardiac and cancer care, Professor Roberts explores all that is on offer.

During the latest episode on Wednesday night, Professor Roberts recreated a grisly 17th-century operation on a ‘patient’ suffering from an enormous bladder stone. The scenes were aired on Friday’s Gogglebox with the cast members reacting to the squeamish moment.

After showing real bladder stones from over the years, which left the Gogglebox cast floored over the size, Professor Roberts then got stuck into a 17th-century operation on a dummy model to extract a bladder stone.

It was explained on the show that bladder stones can grow if patients don’t drink enough water to which Gogglebox’s panicked Lee Riley told Jenny Newby: “I don’t drink enough water, you know!”

The show then explained that back in the 17th-century it was “too dangerous” to operate from the top as it was too near the bowels so instead they would operate from underneath, going through the “root of the penis and prostate” with no anaesthetic. Professor Roberts then conducted this precise operation on a dummy model.

Responding to the scenes, Gogglebox’s Giles Wood exclaimed: “I think I’d rather call it a day, wouldn’t you?” before covering his eyes, adding: “Has it finished yet Mary?”

Meanwhile, Lee also had to look away exclaiming: “Can you imagine?” to which Jenny quipped: “I’m glad you’re suffering for a change!”

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Viewers were also left squeamish over the scenes as they took to Twitter, now X, to share their thoughts. One person said: “I have no words ! #Gogglebox” while a different account added: “I’m having to cover my ears for this bit ! #Gogglebox.”