Coronation Street fans believe one of two characters could be secretly tormenting Sam Blakeman in an AI twist amid concern for his mental health as he continued to spiral
18:55, 08 Apr 2026Updated 18:56, 08 Apr 2026
Fans of Coronation Street believe someone is out to get Sam Blakeman(Image: ITV)
Fans of Coronation Street believe someone is out to get Sam Blakeman, but it’s not Will Driscoll.
Sam has accused Will of tormenting him with threats, menacing behaviour and a sinister phone call. He’s sparked concern about his mental health, with him clearly spiralling after recent stress.
Teen Sam had exposed athletics coach Megan Walsh for grooming her student Will for sex. She’s denied the entire thing, as has Will, but Will’s family know Sam is telling the truth.
Megan had been threatening Sam before he revealed all, and this along with his exam stress has sent him spiralling. This week we’ve seen him panicked, avoiding Will after Will appeared to threaten him over the phone, before charging at him in the street.
Viewers are wondering if most of it is in Sam’s head though, and he could be set for a worrying mental health storyline. But one scene left fans wondering if someone was targeting him.
They do not think it’s Will though, and believe Sam’s conviction that Will is out to get him has left him paranoid, and suffering from hallucinations. As for the phone call, fans do think someone called him, but maybe faked Will’s voice.
The suggestion is that it was Megan, wanting to get back at Sam for exposing her. They wonder if she is using an AI app to mimic Will’s voice to get to Sam, while some viewers also wondered if Hope Stape, who Sam has confided in, is pranking Sam in the same way.
One viewer said: “If it turns out the teacher is using an AI voice changer I will officially stop watching.” Another fan wrote: “I bet Megan called and used a AI program to sound like Will.
“She’s probably doing it to keep Sam scared and full on have a mental health crisis.” A third viewer said: “I don’t think it was him, the voice seems very strange, like robotic, could have it been AI or something like that?
“That was so strange.” A further post read: “It could’ve been AI,” as another said: “Wasn’t Megan messing with AI voices in an earlier episode or have I dreamt it?”
As for Hope, one fan suggested: “I think Hope has something to do with it I think she’s messing with his head with the calls and making him more paranoid.”
The Great British Bake Off left fans in a state of panic as the show suffered technical issues which disrupted the viewing of fans across the UK who vented their fury on social media
Sam Thompson on Great British Bake Off but the episode was interrupted by technical issues(Image: Channel 4)
Viewers of The Great British Bake Off were left unimpressed during Sunday night’s episode for Stand Up To Cancer, as the show was interrupted by technical issues.
As fans of the Channel 4 show sat down to settle in to watching the baking show, they were met with flickering screens. The stars on this year’s show include Sam Thompson, Vicky Pattison and Molly Mae Hague.
And to make matters worse, the show was interrupted multiple time, leaving viewers taking to X to vent their frustration. One person said: “What’s going on? @Channel4 how can we watch #Bakeoff with it breaking up all the time.”
Another person asked: “Anyone else have signal issues while watching Bake Off this evening? We’ve had several shaky screeners tonight. #bakeoff.” Meanwhile, a third person questioned: “Anyone else getting a stuttering broadcast and the occasional pixel madness of an 80s top of the pops episode??”
In response to the tweets coming through, a fourth person agreed with the general sentiment: “Me on Sky. I’ve recorded it and only just started watching it.” They added: “I’ve stopped and started it again, thinking it might have been weather-related, so I’m glad it’s not just me ! #GBBO”.
And this sparked a flurry of people coming forward complaining of the same issue. The technical glitch appears to have affected viewers to the point where they had “given up” watching the show.
Other celebrities who took part in that episode also included Alex Brooker, Ambika Mod and Rose Ayling-Ellis, who were all competing against one another to be awarded the Star Baker apron.
They were given three challenges. One of which was to make mini rolls, another was to bake a syrup sponge pudding and a choux pastry.
And it was EastEnders star Rose who impressed the judges the most, and she was crowned winner of their round. Last week, Molly-Mae won her episode.
Judge Paul Hollywood was most impressed with Molly-Mae. One hearing that she had won her segment, she screamed with joy and said: “That has made my life, you don’t understand! Thank you so much!”
And after leaving the show, the mum of one, who is pregnant with her second child with fiancé Tommy Fury, took to her Instagram.
She wrote: “Still trying to process that this even happened! Taking part in Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer was honestly one of the most insane experiences of my life.”
She added: “Just so grateful to have been part of something so special for such an incredible cause… I’ll truly never get over it @su2cuk @britishbakeoff.”
For the remaining episodes, the stars taking part include JLS singer Aston Merrygold, Rag’N’Bone and Celebrity Traitors’ Joe Wilkinson.
Celebrity Bake Off judge Celebrity Bake Off judge Cherish Finden made her debut on the Channel 4 show. And when asked by Noel Fielding how she found her time on the show, she replied: ” ‘I’ve had a great time. He is a master-baker.”
This comes after it was announced that Prue Leith was stepping down from her judging role after nine series. Replacing her, will be TV chef Nigella Lawson.
Before they head to north London, those present in east London will remember this experience for a long time.
Leeds sold out their entire 9,000 allocation, taking up all the space behind one of the goals and contributing to a fantastic atmosphere.
For most of the game, the Whites looked in complete control. Japan’s Ao Tanaka gave them a first-half lead, with England striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin doubling their advantage with a 75th-minute penalty that looked to have killed the game off.
But in the 11 minutes of injury time, Mateus Fernandes and Axel Disasi scored to take the tie into extra-time.
Taty Castellanos and Pablo both had goals ruled out for offside by the video assistant referee (VAR) in a breathless extra-time period, where Leeds also had two shots cleared off the line.
There was added drama as Areola suffered a leg injury at the end of injury time, meaning Herrick – who was on loan at fifth-tier Boreham Wood as recently as January – was handed a first Hammers appearance in the 120th minute and just before the shootout.
He saved from Piroe, but Perri ensured he would be the goalkeeping hero with his two saves.
“This is the magic of the cup, anything can happen and today was a crazy and memorable game. Happy that we won the match and we are into the semi-finals now,” said Perri.
“For this fanbase it shows the magic of them, the love they have for this team. It is a pleasure to play for this team.”
As he gained notoriety after the animal cruelty act, Magnotta’s crimes culminated in the murder of a student from China.
From the snippets of his crimes that Magnotta posted online, people in a Facebook group built a case against him to find out who he is.
Magnotta was convicted of murder in 2012 and is currently serving a life sentence.
The synopsis for the Netflix true crime docuseries reads: “A twisted criminal’s gruesome videos drive a group of amateur online sleuths to launch a risky manhunt that pulls them into a dark underworld.”
The harrowing series sparked a huge reaction from viewers, with many continuing to recommend it as one of Netflix’s most disturbing true crime programmes.
One person called it a “brilliant watch, it gets more horrendous as you watch too,” while another recommended it, saying, “100% yes, but I found it disturbing, ngl.” Someone else replied: “Same. That’s the one documentary I can’t watch again. So disturbing.”
“To this day, it’s one of the best I’ve seen,” another viewer echoed, as someone else said, “This documentary is horrific. It’s stayed with me ever since I watched it.” One person left a review calling it “incredibly intense and horrific,” while another called it “unforgettable”.
Someone else said: “I was glued from beginning to end. Deanna and John did a wonderful job of describing their experience. There were many times I asked myself if this documentary was fiction cause it was so unbelievable at times. A must-watch! The ending will not disappoint. Again well done to the filmmakers!” Another praised: “Spellbinding and mesmerising and sickening but ultimately rewarding.”
After the series’ popularity, the creators behind Don’t F**k with Cats later discussed the struggle of balancing coverage of Magnotta and his crimes.
Producer Felicity Morris spoke at a Bafta session on the making of the documentary in 2020, saying: “A lot of the conversations that Mark [Lewis] and I had with them [the contributors] at the beginning were like, ‘What are we doing giving him a Netflix platform for his story?'”
After conversations with the two internet sleuths at the heart of the case, Deanna Thompson and John Green, producer Mark Lewis added, “We arrived at what we thought was a comfortable position, looking at the complicity with everyone who reads a crime story in the newspaper and who reads a crime novel.
“Crime and murder is something that we’re all fascinated in, and in a sense it was part of the story that we’re all – whether filmmakers or viewers – sort of complicit in this fascination with true crime and murder.”
Don’t F**k with Cats is available to watch on Netflix.
The Angels celebrated their 2026 home opener on Friday, and the fans booed the ceremonial first pitch.
Magic Johnson, the Dodgers’ co-owner and the foremost winner in Los Angeles sports history, threw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Dodgers’ opener. Jeff Kent, just elected to the Hall of Fame, did the honors for the San Francisco Giants.
In Anaheim, John Carpino tossed the first pitch, even with popular alumni such as Torii Hunter and Tim Salmon in the house. Carpino is the Angels’ president, retiring Monday after 16 years in that role and 23 years in all as a loyal executive under Angels owner Arte Moreno.
Moreno thought it would be lovely for Carpino to throw out the first pitch and, under different circumstances, it would have been.
So Carpino, as a proxy for Moreno, was booed loudly. Then a few modest choruses of “sell the team” broke out.
Behind the Angels’ dugout, Dave and Chris Bloye of Upland wore red T-shirts. His shirt listed five priorities, in order: Affordability, good experience, safety, peanuts, fan surveys. Her shirt listed five priorities too, starting with “sell the team.” The Bloyes said they have had season tickets for more than 20 years.
“We’ve never had a survey,” Chris Bloye said.
Moreno is competitive, a hardcore fan who regularly attends even spring training games. Perhaps he did not mean his words to come out the way they did.
Moreno declined an interview request from The Times at the owners’ meetings in February. A team spokesman said last week that Moreno would pass on an opportunity to clarify his remarks about fan priorities.
But, if those were indeed the priorities, they would have been reflected by the fans that showed up more than six hours before game time for the free fan festival the Angels throw before the home opener every year.
Surely, the man in the jersey that read “FAN SINCE 81” and the Angels tattoo on his left leg would be here win or lose.
Angels fans stand in front of the stadium before the team’s home opener against the Seattle Mariners on Friday night.
(Ronald Martinez / Getty Images)
Yes, Jose Bocanegra of Chino said, he would be. But for Moreno to say winning was not a top fan priority?
“That’s crazy,” Bocanegra said. “If you’re not in it to win it, then what are we doing?”
How about the fan in the Nolan Ryan jersey? He held his 7-year-old daughter atop his shoulders. She wore a Mike Trout jersey, smiled broadly, and clutched a cup of ice cream.
His name was Nate Ryan, from Hemet. He and his daughter attend Dodgers and Angels games, but they particularly like visits to Angel Stadium. His daughter loves the rally monkey and the free games in the Pac-Man arcade, and he appreciates Moreno’s focus on affordability.
“The Angels are more economical,” Ryan said. “We have a good time.”
Jarod Venegas of Corona dressed in a white wrap, wearing a red cap topped by a gold halo. He was about to spend nine innings as — you guessed it — an angel in the outfield.
“I believe we have a team that can be the best,” he said.
What exactly do you mean by best?
“I mean World Series champions,” he said.
Venegas had something to say about fan priorities.
“Winning is our No. 2 priority,” he said. “No. 1 is getting a new owner.”
Johnny Estrada of Corona wore a T-shirt with eight lines on the back. All eight lines read the same: “Sell the team.”
He said he loves the team, supports the players, and does not believe Moreno chose his words poorly.
“I don’t necessarily feel it came out wrong,” Estrada said. “I feel he hasn’t cared for a while.”
Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken, who remains irked by Moreno branding the team with a Los Angeles name, has been a season-ticket holder far longer than she has been mayor. She’ll give Moreno a pass on his comments.
“I think it was a misstep,” Aitken said. “I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. He knows that winning, for a true fan, is one of the most important things. Winning is a priority for our players. Winning is a priority to the loyal fan base.”
Even more so, perhaps, to the casual fans, the ones that determine whether the Angels sell three million tickets in any given year.
The Angels sold 2.6 million tickets last year, a testament to the strength of the market amid a second consecutive last-place finish.
The “Big A” sign outside Angel Stadium on Friday during the team’s home opener.
(Ronald Martinez / Getty Images)
However, attendance has fallen 20% over the past 20 years, a span that includes one postseason series victory and the current streaks of 10 seasons with losing records and 11 seasons without a playoff appearance.
Friday’s home opener was sold out. However, as of Friday afternoon, resale markets listed tickets for as little as $7 for Saturday’s game and $4 for Sunday’s game.
This is a great fan base, to me much more frustrated than angry, waiting to erupt in joy. The fan festival was dominated by fans wearing “sell” jerseys but a variety of Trout jerseys — home white, road gray, alternate red, City Connect, All-Star, World Baseball Classic, even one from the Salt Lake Bees.
Trout’s loyalty has been reciprocated by the fans. Moreno could feel that love too, with a renewed commitment to the excellence the Angels he displayed in his first decade as owner.
In Anaheim, the thunder sticks were glorious. Moreno does not want to sell at the moment, so best to demonstrate a dedication to returning October to the Angels’ schedule, lest their fans take home their giveaway calendars from the home opener and start the countdown to “wait ‘til next year.”
The booing, though. Silly, but also deeply annoying for the players, you’d imagine.
They tried to play progressive football against Ivory Coast, but they were undone too often by their own wastefulness, lack of accuracy, and a shortage of the kind of explosiveness and cleverness that Ben Gannon-Doak gives them on his best days.
The hope is that Gannon-Doak continues his recovery and is flying come Boston. The hope, too, is that Scott McTominay and John McGinn and the other totems of this team find their very best stuff on the biggest stage.
That’s a lot to hope for. The alternative is to mope and boo and there’s no future in that.
Scotland had 14 shots to Ivory Coast’s 12 and four on target to their opponents’ three. They created difficulties for a team that went through their entire World Cup qualifying campaign without conceding a goal.
Clarke’s side will never be as ruthless as they were against Denmark on that famous night at Hampden – an overhead kick from McTominay, a world-class finish from Tierney, a miracle from halfway from Kenny McLean.
Lawrence Shankland’s goal was a tap-in, but he admits Lewis Ferguson’s corner was probably going in anyway, before he made sure.
There was a freakishness about the four goals and the whole occasion. Reality is hitting home again now.
Scotland have to get back to what has brought them joy in the recent past – huge tempo, dangerous deliveries from wide, a flooding of an opponent’s penalty box, a creation of chaos, a flick-on, a ricochet, a breaking ball launched into a net.
They need McTominay and McGinn and Ryan Christie crashing into penalty areas and finishing.
They need Andy Roberton on one side and Gannon-Doak on the other whipping in crosses that spark mayhem.
As a central striker, Clarke has who he has. None of them are Harry Kane. The star quality lies elsewhere in this team. They all need to step up.
A second friendly defeat in four days was no calamity since it came on the back of an admirable performance, unworthy of booing.
Be fretful, be anxious, be a quivering wreck about what might be in America, but keep perspective, too. Scotland are there and they have a chance to do what none of their exalted predecessors have done.
Whoever’s booing them now must be the type of character that smiles at themself in the mirror in the morning, just to get it over with.
The series, which arrived on Netflix on March 26, focuses on a troubled Oslo police detective (portrayed by Tobias Santelmann), who must grapple with both a horrific serial killer and his corrupt colleague.
“Created by one of the greatest storytellers in crime fiction, Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole is a whodunnit serial killer mystery led by famed anti-hero Harry Hole,” the official synopsis teases.
“Underneath the surface, this series is a nuanced character drama about two police officers – and supposed colleagues – operating on opposite sides of the law. Throughout the season, Harry goes head-to-head with his long-time adversary and corrupt detective Tom Waaler,” reports the Express.
The description concludes: “Harry is a brilliant but tormented homicide detective who struggles with his demons. As the two navigate the blurred ethical lines of the criminal justice system, Harry must do all he can to catch a serial killer and bring Waaler to justice before it is too late.”
Joel Kinnaman portrays Tom, alongside Tobias Santelmann as Harry. Pia Tjelta, Peter Stormare, Anders Baasmo Christiansen, Ellen Helinder, Simon J. Berger, and Ingrid Bolsø Berdal also star.
Jo Nesbø has a devoted following, with his novels selling 60 million copies globally, including 5.6 million in Norway – exceeding the nation’s total population. It appears the series has proved to be just as successful as the books, with Detective Hole climbing the Netflix UK rankings just one week after arriving on the streaming service. It currently sits as the fifth most-watched TV programme, and presently maintains a 90% score on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.
Critics have lavished praise upon the series, with Collider stating: “A roundhouse-kick of a thrill ride that lives up to the promises baked into the thriller subgenre’s name, Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole delivers virtually everywhere it should – which is nothing less than what a modern legend deserves.”
FandomWire contributed: “Stylish, gritty, and suspenseful, Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole is a knockout and Nordic noir done right,” while The Times remarked: “So much plot, so much incident, plus heatwaves, tropical thunder and sweat. As rides go, it’s certainly rollicking.”
Fans have also expressed their enthusiasm, with many devouring all nine episodes in one go. One individual posted on IMDb: “Excellent adaptation of Jo Nesbø’s The Devil’s Star. As an avid reader of the books, I found this to be absolutely spot on with its recreation and casting of the Harry Hole universe. So atmospheric, capturing the style and tone of Jo Nesbø’s writing. Excellent acting and riveting storyline, this was an easy binge. I sincerely hope there will be more seasons as there is a wealth of material to tap into.”
Another chimed in: “A gripping Norwegian masterpiece that stays with you. Just finished bingeing the new Norwegian Netflix series Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole (based on the Harry Hole novels), and wow – what an intense, atmospheric ride… By the finale, I was emotionally drained in the best way.”
They went on to say: “If you love smart, character-driven crime dramas with heart and moral weight (think The Killing or The Bridge but with Jo Nesbø’s signature edge), drop everything and watch Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole. It’s binge-worthy perfection. 10/10 from this amateur reviewer – easily one of the best new international series I’ve seen in a while.”
A third viewer described the series as “absolute perfection,” while a fourth fan likewise commented: “Detective Hole is a gripping, unforgettable series that captures the raw brilliance and dark originality of Jo Nesbø. With its intense atmosphere and a deeply flawed yet magnetic protagonist, it pulls you straight into a world where crime, emotion, and truth collide.”
Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole is available to stream on Netflix
Liverpool could not play on the Monday because of the Champions League, so Sky Sports could swap the games.
Everton‘s game is on a Monday, but it was not picked for a Monday. So it may not count as part of the Monday allocation.
Sky Sports says the process involves so many bodies, including clubs and the police, that much of the decision-making is taken out of their hands.
The order of first, second and third-choice picks between Sky and TNT Sports can also have an influence.
It is clear that the five-appearance maximum is a just loose limit.
Supporters will simply see their club has been picked six, seven or eight times.
Manchester United will almost certainly be in Europe next season, so will join the band of clubs largely shielded from the Friday-Monday package.
But with at least eight Premier League clubs set to be in Europe, the issue is not going to go away.
If Tottenham stay in the Premier League they will go to the top of the list for Friday and Monday selection, given they have a large fan base and are viewed as a glamourous club.
Everton fans say the scenario is “damaging supporter accessibility, matchday experience, and long-term engagement”.
Numerous viewers expressed their disapproval on social media about how the disputes shouldn’t have been permitted to occur and both Gia and Brook have since spoken out and publicly apologised.
In response to the backlash, Brook accessed her Instagram page to release a statement, writing: “Last night and the past few episodes of Married at First Sight was an extremely difficult watch.
“What you saw last night was the worst version of myself and unfortunately Alissa and Stella were on the receiving end of that.”, reports OK!.
“I want to firstly sincerely apologise to Alissa and Stella for my words and the hurt that I have caused.
“My actions were appalling and not at all a reflection of the kindness and respect that you both deserve and I hope in time you can forgive me. I am truly sorry.
“To other couples in the experiment and audience who had to witness my behaviour, I am deeply sorry. Bullying should never be condoned and I am extremely embarrassed by the way that I acted.”
Brook continued to say that the dinner party was filmed in August last year and she’s since had time to reflect and learn from her actions.
She concluded: “This behaviour is not a reflection of who I am at my core and I hope that Australia will one day see this. I know trust is rebuilt through actions, not just words and I will continue doing the work to be better.
“I’m looking forward to moving on with my life with more kindness and hope that those watching will choose to do the same.”
Gia took to her Instagram Stories to express regret, penning: “I could speak on why I didn’t connect with Alissa, or things that were said and done to me, but two wrongs don’t make a right.
” Engaging in a cycle of dragging one another to deflect from our own behaviour is not something I want to participate in.
“I’m choosing to focus on growth. On being a better person. On working on my privately and being a present, loving mum. And a supportive partner. That is where my energy is going.
“To Alissa and Stella, I am genuinely sorry for the way I handled myself that night, and throughout the experiment. Regardless of what was said or heard, my delivery and my behaviour was appalling.
“I apologise for the disgusting language and the way I made you both feel. I am deeply sorry for the hurt I have caused you both, and I wish you nothing but peace moving forward.”
Married at First Sight Australia airs Monday to Thursday on E4 at 7.30pm
There is little prospect of VAR being removed from the Premier League, or having its remit reduced.
In 2024, 19 out of 20 top-flight clubs voted to keep VAR, with only Wolves voting against, having proposed the poll themselves.
In order for VAR to be scrapped, 14 out of the 20 Premier League clubs would have to vote against it following a new proposal for abolition by a club.
The independent key match incident (KMI) review panel estimates there has been an accuracy rate of 96-97% for refereeing decisions made in Premier League matches since the introduction of VAR, while time delays caused by VAR have dropped by 25% in the past two seasons.
The Premier League said: “VAR delivers more correct decisions.
“In recent seasons, there have been around 100 correct VAR overturns per season – instances where goals would otherwise have been incorrectly awarded or disallowed, or red cards or penalties missed or wrongly given.
“The league applies a high threshold for VAR intervention, with the referee’s call taking precedence. As a result, VAR is less intrusive in the Premier League than in other European leagues, including the Champions League, where VAR intervenes almost twice as often.”
But the FSA believes the results of its survey should be listened to and acted upon.
“Supporters naturally raise their concerns and they fall on deaf ears far too much,” Concannon says.
“That’s really disappointing, especially when all we hear is that the fans are the lifeblood of the game.
“Don’t just ignore what supporters are telling you in great numbers – that the enjoyment of football isn’t there any more in comparison to what it used to be.”
The six-part hostage drama is based on a “must-read” novel.
Damson Idris will lead the Netflix thriller(Image: NETFLIX)
Netflix’s latest thriller was inspired by a story hailed “quite brilliant in its twists and turns”.
Fans of political thrillers are in for a treat as Netflix has announced a brand new drama from the creators of Humans and the author of House of Cards.
The series, which will be led by British actor and entrepreneur Damson Idris and is one of Netflix’s many hit thrillers, centres around a “nightmare scenario” which sees the government of the United Kingdom taken hostage.
Parliament is now enemy territory and ex-spy Harry Jones (Idris), is the perfect man to save the government if it were not for one problem – he is also a convicted traitor.
The title of the new series is The Lords’ Day, and it is based on the book by Michael Dobbs, who also happens to be a member of the House of Lords.
Netflix promised the thriller will be “an electrifying ride through England’s halls of power.”
The synopsis reads: “On the State Opening of Parliament, British spy Harry Jones finds himself inside the Palace of Westminster amid a lockdown.
“As a hostage siege escalates, loyalties are tested and selfless sacrifices are made, leading to a desperate fight for survival where not everyone will emerge alive.
“Can Harry use his skills and training to be the country’s saviour?”
Actor Idris, 34, is best known for his roles in Snowfall, Outside the Wire and F1, and he is the only casting announced so far. Production will begin soon in the UK.
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Sky is giving away a free Netflix subscription with its new Sky Stream TV bundles, including the £15 Essential TV plan.
This lets members watch live and on-demand TV content without a satellite dish or aerial and includes hit shows like Stranger Things and The Last of Us.
Fans of the original source material took to Goodreads to share their thoughts, with one commenting: “A must read book by Michael Dobbs that was equally as good as the Francis Urquart series!”
Another shared: “Excellent read, I was engrossed with every page. Again, Harry Jones at his best.”
A third called it “fascinating”, adding: “Quite brilliant in its twists and turns and details. Utterly plausible in it’s plot and characterisation. I have found a new favourite author.”
Another reader shared: “A real page turner. Never a dull moment with plenty of action and political intrigue. Edge of the seat thrills and twists.”
The book reviews suggest the TV adaptation will be one of Netflix’s most gripping thrillers.
KIM Kardashian has been accused of editing her sister Khloe’s face by fans as the family enjoy a trip to Japan.
The sisters have been living their best lives in Tokyo over the past week, along with Kim’s children, Saint, Psalm and Chicago and Khloe’s daughter True.
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Kim Kardashian has been accused of editing her sister Khloe’s faceCredit: InstagramThe sisters are enjoying a trip to Tokyo with their children, including Kim’s son SaintCredit: InstagramFans think Khloe’s face looks different in the snapCredit: Instagram/Khloe Kardashian
The Skims founder, 45, took to Instagram on Saturday to share a photo dump of their trip but soon came under fire for allegedly using editing tools to change the appearance of hers and Khloe’s faces.
In one snap, the pair are seen standing in front of a toy claw machine, as Khloe, 41, holds a stuffed toy in her arms.
The sister duo look flawless with their skin glowing and their make-up on fleek, but fans think she may have altered the pictures.
One person commented: “The amount of facetuning on khloe gaadammmm.”
Another social media user expressed: “We saw you at the Oscar party. We know you don’t look anywhere close to this. Nor does your sister.”
Somebody else said: “Ya’ll do not look like this in person. Kim embrace your age and imperfections. Especially Khloe.”
Yet another penned on Reddit: “Why does khloe look photoshopped in. It looks like she’s been pasted in and resized to be around Kim’s height lol.”
While a fifth added: “I hope those Instagram filters get overtime pay cuz they be working hard af.”
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Kim’s new man Lewis Hamilton was spotted with the group in Tokyo earlier this week, before the start of the Japanese Grand Prix.
Things appear to be heating up for the pair as she introduced him to three of her children.
“It’s more than just a casual connection. It takes a lot to capture Kim’s interest and she’s definitely intrigued,” an insider told People.
“He’s just an easygoing guy with great energy.
“Her family likes him and Kim’s very into him. They are both busy with their careers, but see each other as much as possible.”
On Sunday, Kim and Lewis took a stroll around the streets of Tokyo before being sighted by fans.
Fans pointed out Kim’s alleged editing fail on social mediaCredit: instagram
Surrounded by security, Kim waved back as she walked in a full-body grey dress.
Linking arms with BF Hamilton, the American offered some PDA for those watching on.
Kim’s romance with Lewis became public knowledge after The Sun revealed she flew in from Los Angeles on her £100million private jet to spend an evening with him.
On January 31, the couple enjoyed a brief stay at the exclusive Estelle Manor in the Cotswolds, with insiders saying they had the spa to themselves, before enjoying a meal in a private room.
A source told The Sun: “It all appeared to be very romantic. Kim and Lewis made use of all the facilities on offer.
“She had two bodyguards with her and Lewis had a close protection officer but they remained in the background.
“Two of the three stood guard outside the door to their room, so no one could disturb them.”
Lewis was friends with her rapper ex Kanye West, who she divorced in 2022.
A source added: “They had a couple’s massage booked in and had full use of the facilities for just the two of them.
“It was all kept very quiet – they clearly wanted to have some time for just the two of them.”
They hard-launched their romance at the Super Bowl last month, when they were spotted in the stands alongside her sister Kendall Jenner.
Kim’s new man Lewis Hamilton was spotted with the group in TokyoCredit: Shutterstock
INFLUENCER Charlotte Greedy has left fans confused by revealing she and her partner Harriet are trying for another baby, months after they almost split.
The couple already share daughter Phoebe together, while Charlotte is a mum to sons Enzo and Brody from a previous relationship.
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Influencer Charlotte Greedy has shocked fans by announcing she is trying for another baby with wife HarrietCredit: Instagram/@missgreedyshomeIt comes after the couple nearly ended their eight-year relationship last summerCredit: Instagram/@missgreedyshome
Charlotte, known as ‘missgreedyshome’ online, has over half a million Instagram followers, while her wife Harriet boasts over 100K and shares fitness content.
After tying the knot in October 2024, the couple of eight years almost split up last summer – with Charlotte even sharing a split statement before quickly retracting it.
At the time, the influencer said she was “left with no choice” due to “disrespect” in the relationship.
Since then, Harriet and Charlotte have shared several posts about their relationship and how they have battled through its ups and downs.
And now seemingly in a much stronger place, the couple are once again expanding the family.
Sitting down for a new video, they told the camera: “We’re going to try for another baby.”
Charlotte- who had a tummy tuck last year – went on the explain that having more children is something the couple have been thinking about for a while.
She said: “We’ve been talking about this for a few months. Harriet has been set on it and I’ve kind of been on the fence, leaning back off the fence, and now I’ve fallen frontwards off the fence.
“We just love being mums, and, I think, the boys are growing up; Enzo is nearly 13, Brody is 10 and Phoebe is now two.
The couple shared a video online discussing their decision to have another babyCredit: Instagram/@missgreedyshomeThe online couple wed in October 2024Credit: Instagram/@missgreedyshome
“I can’t stand the thought of not having another one. You guys sent an incredible quote to me the other week saying that you’ll never regret the baby you have but you will regret not having that baby.
“And, it just, kind of cemented it for us, didn’t it?”
Charlotte went on to explain that they were only going to have another child if they could use the same sperm donor they previously used to have Phoebe.
Adding that it was “meant to be”, Charlotte said the couple were successful in reserving the same sperm and are set to undergo IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), as opposed to IVF.
They are set to begin the first round in May, with the couple assuring they are set to take fans with them throughout the journey.
While the comment section of the post was filled with friends and fans congratulating the couple, some were also confused about the massive switch up from their previous split woes.
One Instagram user commented: “I say this with respect, but I can’t help thinking about the posts you shared not long ago about you and Harriet splitting up and going through marriage counselling.
“Bringing a baby into the situation is a huge step, and I just hope it’s coming from a place of real stability rather than trying to fix things. A child deserves a secure and settled environment.”
Giving her side of the story, Charlotte replied to the comment: “We have been together nearly 10 years and had many a blip like others I’m sure, we already have 3 kids who have ‘stability’ but thank you for your message.
“I’m sure it doesn’t come from a bad place, our blip was over a year ago now & we share real life and real life will always have its ups and downs.”
The baby news comes after Charlotte underwent a tummy tuck last JuneCredit: Instagram/@missgreedyshomeThe couple previously welcomed daughter Phoebe via sperm donorCredit: Instagram/@missgreedyshomeWhile Charlotte is also a mum to sons Enzo and Brody
This is the April 14, 2021, edition of the Essential Politics newsletter. Like what you’re reading? Sign up to get it in your inbox three times a week.
Former President Trump‘s banishment from Twitter has had a calming effect on the country that even some of his sharpest critics did not foresee.
Yet political discourse on social media has not fundamentally changed. It remains nasty and brutish at times.
Good morning and welcome to Essential Politics, Kamala Harris edition. This week, I’ll talk about my takeaways from reporting on the vice president’s biggest online cheerleaders, the KHive, a loose-knit network of supporters who say they are responding to the toxicity of social media by fighting back when it comes to Harris. Their critics say they are part of the problem.
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KHive and the political questions it raises.
The story about the KHive, published online last week and in print on Sunday, told of the comradery, celebration and mutual sense of purpose its members find, mostly on Twitter, where they defend Harris against what they see as an unfair standard applied to political women of color. The Harris fans’ biggest fights, with fellow liberals, have gotten personal at times. Some members have had their accounts suspended by Twitter.
I hope you will read the story, because they are an interesting group of people. A few broader political points are worth considering as you do:
These kinds of online groups will be an important force in 2024 and beyond.
Ashley Bryant, a Democratic strategist who specializes in digital politics, told me she sees the early fights among the KHive, Bernie Bros (the nickname for Bernie Sanders’ progressive fans) and other groups as a precursor to the party’s next presidential nomination fight.
That could come in 2024 or 2028, depending on whether President Biden runs for reelection. Hard-core partisans are getting a head start.
Republicans have their social-media fights as well. But Trump’s still-dominant presence in the party, combined with his Twitter ban, has given the Republican version of this battle a different flavor.
Many in the NeverTrump faction seem to have given up on the Republican Party, while the post-Trump crowd of potential presidential aspirants and their followers is paralyzed by Trump’s hold on the party’s base. This week, for example, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haleybacktracked on her prior comments disavowing Trump, telling reporters she would support him if he chose to run in 2024.
But I thought Twitter isn’t real life!
This is an important point. The Biden team’s motto, both when he was a candidate and now that he’s president, is that Twitter is not real life. By that they mean that some of the strongest opinions shared by the partisans and pundits who dominate the platform do not often reflect the broad swath of voters who decide primaries and general elections.
That posture helped Team Biden avoid overreacting to criticism or praise shared on Twitter. And the contrast with Trump, who exhausted Americans with his constant provocative presence online and in the news, appears to be playing a big part in Biden’s relative popularity. Politico published a smart story on Biden’s lower-volume media strategy this week, summarizing his approach as “First, do no self-harm.”
One important caveat: Online debates may not be the driving force in public opinion, but they can stoke debate in Congress. For example, the fight over whether to abolish the filibuster in the Senate — which requires many bills to garner a supermajority of 60 votes to pass — has been much hotter online than it is with the general public, though a change in that relatively obscure practice could have significant policy implications for the country.
Notwithstanding Biden’s relatively low-key online persona, Harris has courted the in-your-face KHive. And it’s easy to see why. Its members provide a sense of passionate support, something she lacked in her 2020 presidential primary run. Some members I spoke with spend 20 hours or more online each week. Others said they are active offline in volunteering for her and the Democratic Party.
But such occasionally confrontational groups also pose risks for her, if she becomes too reactive to online debates or gets dragged into some of the more personal and provocative squabbles among partisans.
Democrats are content right now but still divided.
There is also risk for the Democratic Party. Online, Sanders and Harris boosters accuse each other of all manner of attacks, including a practice known as doxxing, in which a target’s personal information is posted online.
Among many, anger lingers from the 2016 nomination contest between Hillary Clinton and Sanders — when Clinton supporters blamed the other side for costing her the election by resisting her candidacy, and Sanders supporters accused Clinton proxies of controlling the party apparatus to stymie Sanders. Some of the Clinton supporters are now behind Harris.
If Democrats want to hold on to the White House and Congress, they need to hash out policy debates but stay unified.
“I don’t have a crystal ball, I don’t know what 2024 could potentially look like,” Bryant said. “But you don’t want voters not even being willing to open their eyes to another candidate just because they’re aligned to one that may not get the nomination.”
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— From David S. Cloud and Tracy Wilkinson: Biden is planning to withdraw all remaining troops from Afghanistan and will complete the pullout before Sept. 11, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that sparked the United States’ longest war, according to a senior U.S. official.
— Biden began to fill the top posts at the Homeland Security Department on Monday. Its ranks were hollowed out by his predecessor amid politicization and record vacancies. Almost all the appointees have California ties, reports Molly O’Toole.
— Lifting kids out of poverty could be Biden’s legacy. Yet the future of his policies remains uncertain as the administration’s ambitions run into spending limits, writes David Lauter.
— Biden spoke Tuesday morning with Russian President Vladimir Putin, warning him against aggressive moves toward Ukraine but also inviting him to a summit meeting, Lauter and Wilkinson write.
— Biden will address a joint session of Congress for the first time on April 28 after receiving an invitation from Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.
The view from Washington
— Congress has a very short window to reverse regulatory actions approved by President Trump’s administration before he left office. Sarah D. Wire writes that at least two are expected to get Senate votes in the coming weeks. Also from Wire: Can Biden really cancel student debt? Here’s where the debate stands.
— The Supreme Court is set to decide soon whether conservative Christians can refuse to work with same-sex couples in a city-funded foster care program. David G. Savage writes that it’s the latest clash at the high court between religious liberty and marriage equality.
— Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill are negotiating a modest bill designed to help law enforcement combat the rise in hate crimes targeting Asian Americans, a rare moment of potential bipartisan compromise on legislation, Jennifer Haberkorn reports.
The view from California
— In 2020, demonstrators began ditching traditional protest venues to instead chant, fulminate and sit-in outside the front doors of officials’ homes. Sacramento has begun to push back, with officials saying “no more,” reports James Rainey.
— There have been hundreds of attempts to break up California. Those forces are driving the effort to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom, writes columnist Mark Z. Barabak.
— And speaking of the recall effort: a colorful cast of hopefuls who want to replace the Democratic leader has started to emerge, including former porn star Mary Carey and Los Angeles billboard icon Angelyne. Both ran in the 2003 recall election to replace then-Gov. Gray Davis, writes Faith E. Pinho.
— A far-reaching proposal to outlaw hydraulic fracturing and ban oil and gas wells from operating near homes, schools and healthcare facilities failed in the California Legislature on Tuesday, writes Phil Willon.
— From John Myers: California law enforcement officers could lose their certification based on the decisions of a panel that includes victims of police misconduct under legislation that moved forward Tuesday in the Legislature. Lawmakers also supported an expansive ban on policing techniques that obstruct a person’s breathing.
Today’s cold open showed Andrew, played by the comedian Jack Shep, taken into an office by MI5 in the wake of Princess Diana’s death in 1997.
22:35, 28 Mar 2026Updated 23:09, 28 Mar 2026
Jack Shep appears as Prince Andrew in a sketch set in 1997
The former Prince Andrew, Sarah Ferguson and Peter Mandelson were skewered in tonight’s opening Saturday Night Live UK sketch. It saw Andrew, played by comedian Jack Shep, taken into an office by MI5 in the wake of Princess Diana’s death in 1997.
It was quickly hailed as “incredible” by fans. One wrote: “I fear it’s already genius.” Another said: “Oh god perfect cold open on Andrew.”
Agents sit him down and tell him: “No one knows better than us how charming, capable, fiercely intelligent and morally upstanding you are. You are a credit to princes everywhere. Since the death of Diana the public have turned on Prince Charles but still one day he will be King. We need to make him look good.”
Another added: “We have deduced that the only way to increase the likability of our future king is to decrease the likability of everyone around him.”
Andrew replies: “I see. Well, I love my brother, I love my country and I’m willing to do whatever it takes.” The agents tell him, passing him an enormous dossier: “We have prepared a 29 year plan.”
He is seen flicking through nervously, asking: “And you actually need me to do all of this stuff? Even the part about befriending a notorious paedophile? Before and after he is convicted? And there is absolutely no other way to make my brother look good?”
The Andrew character adds: “This all seems very high risk. Oh god, I’m sweating. Surely you can’t make everyone around Charles unlikeable. What about William? He’s so handsome.” The agents tell him: “We’re seeing to that.”
“And Harry?” asks Andrew. They tell him: “He’s going to marry a woman 98% of the UK public will find it impossible to have a normal conversation about.”
The Andrew character replies: “Goodness, this will kill mummy when the news comes out.” They tell him: “Turn to page 72, it will.”
Things go up a gear again when they say: “”Send in Agent Mandelson.” Larry Dean emerges as Peter Peter Mandelson with Emma Sidi as Sarah Ferguson, who have also been brought in to make Charles look good.
The agents tell Andrew: “Your Highness, if you’re ever in too deep, just say the code word and we’ll step in to save you.” When he asks what that is, he’s told: “Pizza Express, Woking.”
The second episode of Saturday Night Live UK was hosted by actor Jamie Dornan, following on from Tina Fey’s appearance in the debut.
Lauren Betts arrived at UCLA unsure she could continue playing college basketball.
After a turbulent freshman season at Stanford almost took her out of the game entirely, she joined rising stars Gabriela Jaquez and Kiki Rice in Westwood.
Betts blossomed in three seasons as a Bruin, but none of her games were as special as the final one she played at Pauley Pavilion. During a second-round NCAA tournament win over Oklahoma State on Monday that at times was closer than many expected, Betts dropped a career-high 35 points and nine rebounds to lead UCLA to the Sweet 16.
“This community, the minute that I transferred over here, has just welcomed me with open arms,” Betts said. “The fans have just been so supportive of me through my entire journey, through my mental challenges, through just basketball, everything. I feel like I’ve grown so much, and they have really taken care of me here.
“It’s not even about basketball to me at this point. Like the people, like Coach Cori [Close] said, that we’ve been able to affect and just the difference that we’ve made, I think has been huge. And so for me, like, just to see all the people waving at us at the end of the game was really special.”
Suicide prevention and crisis counseling resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, seek help from a professional and call 9-8-8. The United States’ first nationwide three-digit mental health crisis hotline 988 will connect callers with trained mental health counselors. Text “HOME” to 741741 in the U.S. and Canada to reach the Crisis Text Line.
Betts wrote about her journey to joy on March 9 in The Players Tribune, the second time she has spoken or written in detail about her battle with depression and thoughts of taking her own life. She has become well known for not being afraid to be honest about her mental health challenges and being an advocate for those in need of support. It has endeared her to the UCLA community that’s embraced her, along with her teammates.
She wrote that her transparency about suicidal thoughts and an ensuing hospital stay midway through her sophomore season, first with her UCLA teammates, felt like a release from all the anxiety and self doubt that hounded her as she tried to live up to expectations at Stanford and UCLA.
“I want people to know that I’m doing better,” Betts wrote. “But I also want to be very realistic. My mental health isn’t perfect. It’s an ongoing project.”
UCLA center Lauren Betts, left, and teammate Charlisse Leger-Walker laugh together on the bench during Monday’s NCAA tournament game against Oklahoma State.
(Ronaldo Bolanos/Los Angeles Times)
Her teammates are in awe of her efforts to be the best person she can on and off the floor.
“She makes everyone better not just because of the basketball player she is, but the leader she is,” said Gianna Kneepkens, a graduate student who transferred from Utah to UCLA. “She challenges us, she pushes us, she just wants what’s best for the team. When people are getting tripled, she’s not worried about, ‘Oh, like, can I get the points?’ She’s seeing who is open so that we can score. So I just have had such a great time playing with Lauren and she’s one of the biggest reasons I came here.”
During the Oklahoma State win, UCLA led from wire to wire. But the Cowgirls outscored the Bruins in the second half and the Bruins’ shooting fizzled out during a tense third quarter. Betts, however, didn’t falter.
Her 35 points came in just 34 minutes. She was 15 of 19 from the field and nearly reached a double-double with nine rebounds.
Betts had long established herself as one of the best players in the country, but she doesn’t lead the nation in scoring, in part, because UCLA is a balanced team with many scoring options. Her performance against Oklahoma State was a reminder that she is still the Bruins’ most formidable player and remains the heart of the program’s push to win a national championship.
“That [scoring is] always in her bag,” Jaquez said. “Maybe some nights she passes more, but that’s just what makes her so special. She’s going to win 99% of her matchups.”
UCLA’s offense runs through its star center even with some of the best shooters in the country. Their starting lineup spaces the floor, with former Washington State leading scorer Charlisse Leger-Walker as a fifth option.
“She puts a lot of pressure on herself a lot of the time and always blames herself when she shouldn’t be and no one else is thinking that way,” Leger-Walker said of Betts. “And I think over this past year, she’s really been working on trying to not do that so she can be the best she can for this team. We obviously need her to be confident, just being able to trust herself, because that is what is going to make our team so much better.”
UCLA center Lauren Betts shoots the ball during the Bruins’ NCAA tournament win over Oklahoma State at Pauley Pavilion on Monday.
(Ronaldo Bolanos/Los Angeles Times)
There are games that often belong to someone else. Jaquez has turned in big games this season and Rice was the Big Ten tournament most outstanding player. The Bruins have featured six different leading scorers across all games this season.
But it still always comes back to Betts, who has been UCLA’s top scorer a team high 14 times.
“Lauren is one of those players that is always so dominant,” Leger-Walker said after the win over Oklahoma State. “I didn’t even know until she came out that she had 30-something [points.] I was like, ‘Yeah, what the heck?’ That’s just her, you know, she’s a bucket. And she’s gonna always be dominant in that fashion and she is just such an impact player for this team.”
Betts’ 27 minutes, 17.1 points and 8.7 rebounds per game are slightly down from last season. Her 3.2 assists per game are slightly up. Her role, like many other UCLA players, has evolved to fit the star-studded lineup.
In the same way Leger-Walker went from a three-point sniper to a point guard or Rice went from a distributor to a shooter and Jaquez from a hoop driver to a three-level scorer, Betts transformed from a post-up only scorer to the conductor of the Bruins’ office in the middle of the floor.
“She anchors us on both ends, down in the paint, especially defensively,” Rice said. “Her ability to switch out on guards and play on the perimeter and help us out is really, really big. And obviously offensively, she’s such a big offensive player.”
If the Bruins do win a national title, it’ll be on the back of their star. Sure, UCLA is a team full of them, but Betts is still, as Jaquez describes her, “that girl.”
For one last run, Betts can be that for a community and team where she’s found not just acceptance, but true celebration.
“I think she’s found a really deep purpose,” Close said. “And when you can use your pain for great purpose and other centeredness to have an incredible legacy in the lives of others, that’s an incredible gift. But it’s a gift that she’s worked really, really hard for.”
Married At First Sight Australia groom Steve sparked controversy during Intimacy Week
Rebecca was in tears minutes into the latest episode(Image: Channel 4)
Fans tuning into the latest episode of Married At First Sight Australia branded one groom a ‘complete clown’ after his wife departed the programme mere minutes into the instalment.
Audiences in the UK are presently enjoying the newest series of the reality dating programme from Australia, where couples encounter each other for the very first time at the altar and develop their relationship from that point onwards. The outcomes thus far are predominantly mixed to say the least.
This week has witnessed the couples participating in intimacy week. As part of this, expert Alessandra Rampolla recently encouraged all the brides to embrace their ultimate fantasy with their partner.
However, not every evening proceeded according to plan. This was particularly true for Rebecca and Steve. Rebecca was shown browsing at an adult shop and purchased some outfits she believed her husband might appreciate seeing her model, reports OK!.
Regrettably for her, he displayed considerable apathy towards the prospect of her dressing up for him. In his own words, he stated: “I didn’t say don’t do it. I just said it would make me very uncomfortable if it happens.”
He subsequently dismissed the notion that Rebecca’s sole motivation for participating in the programme was to find love. He asserted that he ‘was sure’ there must be alternative reasons and suggested people don’t disclose everything in their audition tapes.
The situation only deteriorated for him as he joked to expert Alessandra that he didn’t have an earpiece in his ear to provide him with the correct responses. Misinterpreting his comment as a jab at her, she retorted sharply: “Honestly the lack of respect you are showing me here to someone who is trying to help you is appalling. Tread lightly. I don’t take to this well.”
Other grooms even confessed to the camera that they believed he was acting selfishly, with one suggesting that a 50 year old man should know how to address a woman. Steve insisted he wasn’t referring directly to Alessandra, but she questioned who else his remark could be aimed at.
Later, during his on-camera interview with producers, he admitted that he hadn’t absorbed much from his conversation with Alessandra, largely dismissing everything that transpired. He also mentioned that he chose to withdraw and felt there was a lot of contradiction in the room.
Viewers at home were quick to react to the latest developments. One person commenting on the MAFS subreddit said: “So what are Steve’s ulterior motives for being here? if he’s so sure there has to be some.” Another viewer remarked: “Ugh.. Steve is becoming more and more awful…”
While Rebecca initially left the flat, she returned after spending a night apart, but then it was soon Steve’s turn to depart. After making no headway following his session with Rebecca, he packed up and left.
Viewers were left astonished by his decision, with one commenting: “Rebecca deserves a lot better. Cos what is this “so much for me” business. What exactly is she doing?? I’m so confused.”
Another responded: “Goodness Steve is diabolical and such a liar, he hasn’t tried.” While someone else pleaded: “Steve should just leave, he clearly doesn’t fancy or want Rebecca. Stop wasting everyone’s time.”
Meanwhile, one fan questioned on X: “Did Steve realise he was on a tv programme?! #mafsau”, another posted: “If Steve is SO conservative, why even apply for this show, knowing what it’s all about #mafsau” while a different audience member added: “Did Steve not watch #MAFSAU before he applied?”
Married at First Sight Australia continues tomorrow at 7.30pm on E4 and streaming on Channel 4.
Fans now know when they can look forward to the new adaptation
20:06, 25 Mar 2026Updated 20:10, 25 Mar 2026
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Fans of Harry Potter admit that they are ‘dancing in their room’ after the first ‘incredible’ trailer finally landed for the upcoming HBO series.
We have known for some time now that a new adaptation based on the series of books written by J.K. Rowling has been on the way. Most have welcomed the news with cautious optimism. Some have said to be unsure we need another version after the much admired film series.
This new iteration is set to be a faithful adaptation of the iconic novels, with the author credited as an executive producer. Each season of Harry Potter will be introduced to both new and existing fans, exclusively streaming on HBO Max which finally launches in the UK this month.
The original classic films will continue to be accessible for viewing globally. While fans should be able to stream the new series on HBO’s dedicated platform, Sky and NOW users should also have access providing they have the correct subscription.
It’s been previously suggested that the studio is optimistic about the series being as successful and well-received as the films, with hopes of it running for a minimum of 10 years. The series is penned and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner, known for her work on Killing Eve and His Dark Materials. Multiple episodes will be directed by Mark Mylod, renowned for directing several episodes of the HBO hit series Succession.
Last year it was confirmed that emerging talents, Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stout, will take on the legendary roles of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley, respectively. We now have a first glimpse of their much anticipated performances.
That also includes the new portrayals of other beloved characters. This includes Hagrid played by Nick Frost and Professor Dumbledore, with Hollywood star John Lithgow taking on the responsibilities of the role.
Fans now also know when they can expect to start watching the series and it is sooner than many think. The caption for the video as shared on YouTube states: “A new era of Hogwarts begins. The HBO Original series Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone premieres this Christmas.”
As expected, fans were quick to share their thoughts and opinions on the first footage shared from the series. Many were actually surprised at how much they enjoyed it.
One person replied: “This actually looks incredible! I love that they’re going to show more of Harry’s life with the Dursleys!” Another added in a similar vein: “THIS LOOKS INCREDIBLE!!! God Bless HBO!! THIS CHRISTMAS.”
Someone else confessed: “I’m dancing in my room right now.” While one person noted: “I actually love the take on Harry trying to be a muggle student at a school.”
Surprised by how the first episode seems to be approaching faster than first anticipated, one said: “Also, Christmas??? YESSS!!! I thought we’d have another year!!”
Plenty of others recognised that the series will allow them to explore more events of the book and reflect on characters more deeply. Some fans even admitted that they were left emotional and even in tears at the thought that the series could allow them to relive their childhoods. One person commented: “I shed a tear…my childhood is coming back to me again.”
One person posted: “I’m sobbing this is incredible” and another “I’m literally crying.”
Harry Potter is streaming on HBO Max this Christmas.
Netflix has confirmed the third season of one of their most popular shows is now in production
Netflix fans ‘can’t wait’ after update on ‘best show in the world’
Netflix has announced the third series of popular rom-com Nobody Wants This is presently in production.
Featuring Adam Brody as rabbi Noah and Kristen Bell as agnostic podcast presenter Joanne, the programme chronicles the duo as they begin an unexpected romance.
The second series wrapped up with Joanne choosing to convert to Judaism while Noah comes to terms with wanting to be with her regardless.
Series three is consequently expected to commence with their relationship more solid than ever, though there will inevitably be additional drama to unfold with Joanne’s sister, Morgan (portrayed by Justine Lupe) and Noah’s brother, Sasha (Timothy Simons), and sister-in-law, Esther (Jackie Tohn).
Showrunners Jenni Konner and Bruce Eric Kaplan informed Netflix: “We are so grateful to Netflix and 20th for giving us another season of Nobody Wants This”, reports the Express.
They continued: “This job is criminally fun. Working with the uniquely gifted Erin Foster [creator], this unbelievable cast of talented, hilarious pros, amazing writers, and incredible crew has been a truly great experience.”
Foster shared with the streamer when the third series was originally announced: “I couldn’t be more excited to head into a third season of this show.”
She added: “It is a privilege to be able to write about my favourite couple on a scale like this. As long as it doesn’t take too much time away from me watching reality TV at night, I’ll do it for as long as they want me to!”
The second season of Nobody Wants This demonstrated even greater triumph than the first, accumulating 18 million views within its initial 11 days and securing a position in Netflix’s Top 10 chart across 82 countries.
Netflix and lead actress Bell ignited excitement amongst devotees with a collection of behind-the-scenes photographs as production commences in Los Angeles, California.
“Can’t wait to see them be silly and cute on my screen again,” responded one user beneath Bell’s Instagram post.
Someone else declared: “Hurry!!! We can’t wait for season 3.” Another stated: “Best series in the world ever.”
Get Netflix free with Sky for Bridgerton Season 4
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‘Dearest gentle reader’, as the fourth season of Bridgerton follows second son Benedict love story, there’s a way to watch this fairytale-like season for less.
Sky is giving away a free Netflix subscription with its new Sky Stream TV bundles, including the £15 Essential TV plan. This lets customers watch live and on-demand TV content without a satellite dish or aerial and includes the new season of Bridgerton.
And a final fan enthused: “Finallyyyyyy!!! We have been waiting for this!!”
Season two featured numerous thrilling guest stars, including Seth Rogen, Kate Berlant, and Leighton Meester, so devotees are anticipating further major names could participate in the entertainment for season three.
A launch date for the third season remains unconfirmed, but as the previous instalment commenced filming in March 2025 and was released later that same year, viewers could anticipate the series to return in October or November 2026.
Nobody Wants This is available to stream on Netflix.
Netflix has confirmed Bridgerton’s fifth season is currently in production but fans aren’t happy about the direction of the hit period drama
Bridgerton fans fume ‘big mistake’ as Netflix confirms season 5 leads(Image: NETFLIX)
Bridgerton season five will officially focus on middle daughter Francesca with Hannah Dodd taking the lead in Netflix’s popular period romance drama.
Dodd will be starring alongside Masali Baduza as Michaela Stirling, marking the first time the hit streaming series will spotlight a same-sex couple.
The upcoming instalment, which is currently in production, will be set after the death of Francesca’s husband John Stirling (played by Victor Alli) as she begins to explore her complex feelings for his outgoing cousin.
A synopsis confirms: “The fifth season of Bridgerton spotlights introverted middle daughter Francesca.
“Two years after losing her beloved husband John, Fran decides to reenter the marriage mart for practical reasons.
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“But when John’s cousin Michaela returns to London to tend to the Kilmartin estate, Fran’s complicated feelings will have her questioning whether to stick to her pragmatic intentions or pursue her inner passions.”
A first-look teaser for the upcoming season has given fans a tantalising glimpse of the pair together, giving each other a tender glance as inspiring music swells.
While countless fans are thrilled to see Fran and Michaela’s romance develop, others have criticised the decision to delay Eloise Bridgerton’s (Claudia Jessie) storyline to season six.
In Julia Quinn’s original novels, 28-year-old Eloise finds love in the fifth book, To Sir Phillip, With Love, after exchanging letters with widower Sir Phillip Crane, played by Chris Fulton in the TV adaptation.
“Big mistake it should have been Eloise next, no buzz here l’m sorry to say,” one viewer fumed on X, adding a shrug emoji.
Someone else exclaimed: “BIG Mistake! should’ve been Eloise first, Fran should’ve had time to grieve.”
Another said: “im actually mad because wdym im not seeing [Eloise’s] season till 2030.” A third wrote: “THEYRE DOING FRANCESCA BEFORE ELOISE?? WHATTT.”
The conversation continued on Reddit, where one user reasoned: “I’m not sure how to feel about this I’m excited for them and their story but honestly what are they going to do with Eloise for another season, i just can’t see what they do with her.”
Watch Bridgerton on Netflix for free with Sky
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Sky is giving away a free Netflix subscription with its new Sky Stream TV bundles, including the £15 Essential TV plan.
This lets members watch live and on-demand TV content without a satellite dish or aerial and includes hit shows like Bridgerton.
“I mean great but I have mixed feelings. I just really wanted Eloise to be the next,” another agreed.
Though someone else argued: “Ayyy, my girls!! So excited to see them lead, I know it’s going to be a fantastic season! Hopefully they can advance Eloise’s plotline as well, like how Fran’s story got a headstart in S3.”
Production starting this spring indicates the next season should arrive on Netflix at some point in 2027.
Hopefully that also means fans won’t be waiting too long before Eloise finally gets her time to shine.
LONDON — Years before the rise of Instagram, Banksy figured out that the key to real influence lay in not being famous, exactly, but in being anonymous.
The mystery of his identity has long been part of the value of his art, which for decades and across continents defied authority from public walls and self-shredded on the auction block. Now, Banksy’s apparent unmasking by the Reuters news agency has generated talk about whether the works themselves retain their cultural and financial value.
It also raises the question: Why pop the balloon of his mystique in the first place? Many Banksy fans mourned the loss of the mystery and lashed out at the news outlet. One said it was like being told without warning that Santa Claus doesn’t exist.
“I feel like they are telling me how a magic trick is done,” said Thomas Evans, a Denver-based artist on Instagram. “Sometimes I just want to enjoy the magic trick.”
But some art experts say the murals and the message will survive Banksy’s naming because his appeal wasn’t driven solely by his anonymity. He and his works — dark and mischievous — stand as witnesses to injustice, oppression and inequality around the world, from the artist’s native England to walled-off Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank and war-ravaged Ukraine. Subtract his anonymity, they say, and the work still inspires reflection and discussion.
“People buy his works because they absolutely love it,” said Acoris Andipa, director of the Andipa gallery in London. “The main feedback that I get is that they really, frankly, don’t care if they know who he is.”
Naming the ghost — and the backlash — is engagement, too
Banksy, long thought to have been born Robin Gunningham around 1972, grew out of a tradition of street artists who viewed the undercover act of posting their art in public as a subversive form of expression. The postindustrial landscape of his native Bristol was his canvas and gallery. The walls of London, New York and elsewhere gave him a global stage just before the rise of social media.
Banksy’s apparent identity has been an open secret among protective fellow artists, and long been easy to find online for those who wanted to know. The Daily Mail reported in 2008 “compelling evidence suggesting” that was the artist’s birth name. It has been published by other news outlets, including the Associated Press in 2016, as part of their coverage of the detective work.
Reuters reported recently that after the Daily Mail’s story, Banksy changed his legal name to David Jones — the second most-popular name in Britain. It’s also the given name of the late David Bowie, whose Ziggy Stardust rock ‘n’ roll avatar inspired a 2012 Banksy painting of Queen Elizabeth II.
Bansky’s lawyer didn’t respond to a request for comment, and the artist’s spokeswoman declined to participate in this story.
Reuters pieced together that a David Jones traveled to Ukraine with a well-known associate of Banksy’s in late 2022 — just before the artist’s work began appearing on buildings that had been bombed by Russia. Banksy later confirmed that he’d created seven murals in the war zone, including one of a child flipping over a grown man who is wearing a black belt. Russian President Vladimir Putin practices judo.
There’s evidence that even some in the establishment he was protesting have accepted Banksy. They didn’t arrest him, for example, after the Royal Courts of Justice removed a Banksy stencil depicting a judge in a traditional wig and gown beating an unarmed protester with a gavel. Some street artists groused that they might be arrested for creating such graffiti — but when it’s a Banksy, it’s art.
The artist wasn’t always so elusive
On Sept. 17, 2000, a Robin Gunningham was arrested for defacing a Marc Jacobs billboard atop a building on Hudson Street in New York.
In a handwritten signed confession, he described the work on the night in question: “I had been out drinking at a nightclub with friends when I decided to make a humorous adjustment to a billboard on top of the property,” he wrote in court records unearthed by Reuters and confirmed by the AP. “I painted eyeshadow a new mouth and a speach bubble” on the photo of a male model. He was charged with a misdemeanor.
The artist doesn’t need an alleged naming to make news. He created multiple works in London in 2025, and grabbed headlines elsewhere for having his art sold or auctioned for millions. But Banksy has courted a public image centered around morality, justice and guerrilla tactics — he’s often likened to Robin Hood or Batman.
“Banksy woz ere,” he wrote with his animal murals at the London Zoo, which were removed in 2024.
Still, along with the sadness, there’s ample speculation in the art world and on social media that the artist himself orchestrated this round of naming. He didn’t deny the Reuters story.
That “would be very much in line with his practice of stunts and satire,” observed Madeleine White, the senior sales and acquisitions consultant at London’s Hang-Up Gallery. “As they say, ‘All publicity is good publicity.’”
She noted, however, that the backlash is directed at the media — not the artist, or the potency of his work. Reuters says it opted to publish some, but not all, of the information its reporters uncovered about Banksy’s identity, because he is a public figure, whatever his name — and he’s had an outsize influence on public events and discourse. What’s more, much of his work has been done on other people’s property.
Connected to world events
Named or not, Banksy’s stardom lives, art experts say.
It endures in the wonder of his ability to erect new art under the noses of authorities well into the age of social media and ubiquitous surveillance cameras. It appeals because his spectacle and wit draw people in and the settings — the hulk of bombed buildings, for example, or Israel’s towering wall at the border of the West Bank — invite them to reflect. Now, fans are on the lookout for how and whether he’ll respond to the news of Robin Gunningham and David Jones.
Joe Syer, a Banksy expert and founder of MyArtBroker, said that the artist has always responded to world events. “And that’s where the real relevance, and value, sits,” he said.
“If anything, Banksy’s anonymity has functioned less as a celebrity device and more as a way to keep the work universally accessible, detached from personality, ego, or biography,” Syer said in an email. “It allows the work to sit in public space, politically and culturally, without being anchored to an individual in the way the mainstream press often frames it.”
Christopher Banks, founder of the New York-based Objects of Affection Collection, reads Banksy’s naming “not as a biographical event, but as a structural stress test” of the artist’s system of managing his absence.
“Banksy’s best works carry their meaning without the author. He was there,” Banks wrote, citing the artist’s murals in Ukraine and his solidarity with the war’s victims.
“The name matters less than the presence. The presence was always what the work was about.”
Kellman writes for the Associated Press. AP writer Michael Sisak in New York contributed to this report.
Frank Lampard hopes Matt Grimes’ “very classy” decision not to celebrate his goal against Swansea City will end the boos when the midfielder faces his old club.
Grimes was given an icy reception on his first return to the Swansea.com Stadium since ending a 10-year spell as a Swan when he joined Coventry City in January 2025.
Yet when he responded by scoring Coventry’s second goal in the Championship leaders’ 3-0 win on Saturday, the 30-year-old raised his hands in apology.
“A lot of people, maybe including me, would have had a little celebration having got booed, but it’s a sign of the man he is,” said Sky Blues boss Lampard.
