A GROUP of office workers were left shocked when they learned their colleague is a former child star, and had a role in an iconic festive film.
The actor now keeps a low profile working as a Logistics Manager for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games, which will take place in Glasgow. But do you recognise him?
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Office workers had the highlight of their week when they realised their colleague is a former child starCredit: tiktok@commonwealthsportJoe Lane was left mortified when his co-workers realised he was in the Nativity! movie back in 2009Credit: tiktok@commonwealthsportJoe portrayed Edward, one of the key characters in the hit film NativityCredit: Lionsgate
He portrayed schoolboy Edward in the film, which is centred around a heartbroken primary school teacher’s journey to make his class’s nativity play reach Hollywood, and win his ex-girlfriend back in the process.
In a TikTok shared by Joe’s colleagues, the former actor was left red-faced when they figured out his famous past.
The clip showed Joe, dressed in a Christmas jumper and a festive headband, as he is shaken by his colleagues.
It then cuts to clips of him in the movie, before his colleagues recreate a hilarious moment by his character Edward.
Joe’s starring moment in the film saw him take to the microphone during the final Nativity performance and impersonate fart sounds with his armpit.
The former child star had his head in his hands when his co-workers cornered him at his desk and re-enacted the funny moment in the TikTok video.
“When you find out your colleague was in the nativity films,” read the video, with the caption adding: “The most exciting office development this week”.
The film was cast by producers holding open calls for local kids in Coventry, with the aim to use non-professional actors for an authentic feel.
After appearing in the first movie, Joe appears to have steered away from continuing an acting career.
He went on to become a semi-professional rugby player, before moving into logistics for sporting events.
Coventry-born Joe is now living in Glasgow after spending time in Australia and London.
It appears he has been keen to keep his famous past under wraps in the workplace.
One TikTok user commented on the video to reveal that they had previously worked with Joe, and had no clue of the connection.
“I worked with Joe at Coventry Rfc and unless I was out of the loop he kept this very well hidden!” they said.
Another commenter joked “So he didn’t become shrek??”, referencing the scene in Nativity! where character Mr. Poppy told Edward, “You could be Shrek”.
Joe as Edward, centre, in the Christmas smashCredit: LionsgateJoe was less than impressed when his colleagues reenacted his famous screen momentCredit: tiktok@commonwealthsport
Cadi Mullane, who played Crystal – one of the main children in the film – previously detailed what filming was like in a TikTok video.
She said: “I was part of an agency called Stagecoach, they were looking for kids who were really chatty, who could dance a little bit and sing a little bit. Apparently that was me.
“There was about seven auditions. But I’m from Wales so I had to keep travelling up to London which was a bit annoying, but it was OK because I really wanted to be in a film.
“They looked at how well we could sing and how well we got on with the other kids, cause that was important, obviously.”
Cadi went on to recall how the movie filmed throughout the summer, with no scripts for the children.
She said: “It was filmed in Coventry but obviously I’m not from Coventry so we all stayed in a hotel together. It was like The Suite Life Of Zach and Cody, honestly.
“There was no scripts. Everything was improvised, except from some bits. We basically just spoke loads of rubbish, and then we were asked to say it again on camera.”
The film is centred around a Coventry school’s nativity show and their feat to take it to HollywoodCredit: AlamyThe film was fronted by award winning actor Martin FreemanCredit: AlamyA number of local children took part in the film, with producers hiring non-professionals for an “authentic feel”Credit: Alamy
You can save up to £400 on a holiday in the sale(Image: Getty Images)
It’s never too early to start planning your 2026 getaway and it might be the best time yet as Jet2 has launched a huge sale, offering up to £400 off on all holidays. In a bid to help holidaymakers secure their getaway for next year, Jet2holidays has launched a sale just in time for Christmas. The UK’s biggest tour operator is offering travellers £100 off per person on all holidays, and a generous 20% discount on all Jet2.com flights, including one-way journeys.
This means a family of four could save a hefty £400 on a holiday to Spain or Italy, even during the school holidays. Additionally, hundreds of hotels and resorts offer free stays for children, providing the chance for even further savings.
But it’s not just families who can benefit. Couples booking a getaway with Jet2holidays during the sale can also enjoy a £200 discount on trips to destinations such as Greece or Cyprus.
The sale applies to all holidays, across all seasons booked through Jet2holidays, Jet2CityBreaks, VIBE by Jet2holidays, Indulgent Escapes and Jet2Villas. There are a bundle of holiday options available to suit everyone, from private villas nestled in Majorca near the Mediterranean coast, to an all-inclusive resort in Egypt with excursions to the sprawling desert.
However, there’s more. Holiday-goers can also secure their 2026 summer holiday for a low deposit of £25 per person.
Jet2 flies to more than 75 destinations across Europe from 14 UK airports so there’s a destination to suit everyone. However, if you’re hoping to take advantage of these savings you don’t have long as the sale runs until Monday, January 12, 2026.
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “Nothing beats the joy of booking a holiday and we are spreading that joy far and wide through the launch of this fantastic sale, making it easier for customers to getaway for less.
“Launched in time for the busy holiday booking season, Jet2 is offering holidaymakers fantastic savings on their holidays and flights, and we know that this, alongside our industry-leading customer service, will be a huge hit.
“With so much value and choice available, we look forward to welcoming even more new and existing customers, whilst showcasing what makes us the UK’s favourite tour operator and airline.”
For more information or to book your next getaway, you can visit the Jet2.com and Jet2holidays websites.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
A UK town dubbed the ‘Queen of the English Riviera’ is set to undergo a multi-million pound project.
Torquay in Devon is known for its many palm trees and sprawling beaches, leading it to being compared to the French Riviera.
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Torquay will undergo a multi-million pound regenerationCredit: Alamy
And soon the town will undergo a number of projects to upgrade multiple areas as well as introduce new attractions.
Via the government’s ‘Pride in Place’ fund, Torquay’s Strand is one area that will be redeveloped.
There are also plans to introduce a ‘Festival of Torquay’ in 2027.
In total, 30 projects have been chosen for further consideration as part of the council’s 10-year aim to spend £20million on schemes that will make the town better, healthier and happier for those who live there.
Other projects include restoring historic destinations in the town, such as The Royal Lyceum Theatre.
And for younger people, there are ideas of introducing a number of cultural spaces including a ‘Hidden High Street Creative Space’, a children’s society wellbeing hub, a creative and cultural space for young people and a Torbay Creative Exchange.
According to Torbay Weekly, Torbay Council interim place manager JonPaul Hedge said: “There have been so many brilliant ideas.
“And there are some super-quick wins in terms of delivery.”
Tracey Cabache of Torbay Communities said: “We need something to come forward in the first six months that is very visible for everyone to see.”
There will be a number of projects that aim to improve access to services in the town too, such as connecting different places, establishing a town centre drop-in for disabled and vulnerable people, opening a support and wellbeing hub, opening a number of community hubs and launching a homeless hostel.
The town will be tidied up as well, with more community bus information and opportunities to sponsor a path.
The Strand, which looks on to Torquay Harbour, could also see a large hotel in the future.
According to Willmott Dixon, the spot where a former Debenhams store stands could be transformed into an upscale hotel, with shops on the ground floor, a brasserie-style restaurant, a rooftop bar, fitness room and event space.
Willmott Dixon’s site states: “The food and beverage offering will showcase local produce, delivering a ‘Best of Devon‘ experience.
“The rooftop bar, accessible from The Terrace, is designed to become a destination in its own right, offering panoramic views of Torbay.”
Work is also being carried out on Torquay Pavilion, an Art Nouveau building that opened back in 1912 as an entertainment venue for concerts, theatre and cinema.
In total there are 30 projects that could be approvedCredit: Alamy
The Grade II-listed structure closed in 2012 and over the past months Torbay Council has been carrying out assessment works to understand the condition of the Pavilion.
That work is now complete and the council is now coming up with a proposal for the site.
Another site in Torquay that hopefully has a brighter future is where Living Coasts used to be located.
The tourist attraction, home to penguins and seals, closed back in 2020 and has been left abandoned since.
But now, ARC Marine – a reef technology company – has signed a long-term lease to use the site as a world-leading Marine Innovation Hub.
Even an upscale hotel is planned for the HarbourCredit: Alamy
The projects in Torquay coincide with transformations in the other two towns that form the English Riviera – Paignton and Brixham.
For example, via the Brixham Town Centre Place Vision, Brixham is due to become a vibrant coastal community, according to Torbay Council, with a focus on its historic fishing heritage.
Proposals include more pedestrian links in the town, creating family areas and launching more street food and waterfront activities.
In other regeneration news, a popular London borough to get huge £10billion makeover with parks, restaurants and ‘flower amphitheatre’.
Plus, a historic city centre is set for £2.5billion revamp in the UK’s largest regeneration project.
Paignton and Brixham – which make up the remainder of the English Riviera – are also set to undergo huge projectsCredit: Alamy
ANNE-MARIE has vowed to shake things up for her upcoming fourth album – her first since 2023’s Unhealthy.
The Ciao Adios singer told The Sun that she’s determined not to return with a record that’s a copy-and-paste job of her first three albums.
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Anne-Marie has promised her fourth album will shake things up and break from the pastCredit: SplashThe star also revealed she’s turned to longtime friend Ed Sheeran – who co-wrote her 2018 hit 2002 – for advice on juggling being a pop star and a parentCredit: GettyAnne-Marie married rapper Slowthai in 2022 and they share two children togetherCredit: TIKTOK
Speaking backstage at Capital Jingle Bell Ball with Barclaycard, after she put on an intimate gig in Barclaycard’s Out Of The Blue area for lucky fans, Anne-Marie said: “Next year there will be new music.
“I think I need to switch it up a bit… Will I be rapping? Who knows.
She says she’s turned to longtime friend Ed Sheeran – who co-wrote her 2018 hit 2002 – for advice on juggling being a popstar and a parent.
Anne Marie explained: “Be a parent, it’s hard.
“It’s like everyone says.
“It’s the best thing ever and the hardest thing at the same time.
“I think working is definitely hard.
“I find it harder than I thought I would, but they are beautiful little aliens.
“It does make you want more even though you are in hell.”
She continued: “I go to Ed for a lot of advice really.
“About kids but also about everything really.
“Now that we have kids he is like the perfect person to speak to.”
In September Anne-Marie released a teaser of what’s to come with her new track Depressed.
Admitting Christmas time isn’t always easy for people, Anne-Marie said: “I am very aware that people feel alone at this time of the year which makes me sad.
“But I think as long as you get through it and think of the next year and all of your dreams and plans that you want to achieve next year, you will be okay.
“Also just snuggle up on the sofa and watch a movie with some chocolate.
“Just take care of yourself and give yourself some love.
“Next year we start afresh.
“My go-to film at any time of year is Liar Liar with Jim Carey.
“Anything Jim Carey is my go-to.”
Anne-Marie welcomed her son in MayCredit: InstagramAnne-Marie is seen here when she was pregnant with daughter ForeverCredit: Instagram
A BUSTLING area in London is set to get a massive £10billion makeover.
The site of a historic events and music venue in West London is set to undergo a £10billion redevelopment.
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Earls Court will undergo a massive £10billion redevelopmentCredit: VisualBank
Work on the 44 acre site, where Earls Court Exhibition Centre used to be, is expected to begin next year, which is more than a decade since the famous venue was first demolished.
Once complete, the development will have 4,000 homes, 232,000sqm of workspace, three cultural venues and 20 acres of public space, including green spaces.
The three cultural venues will play into the site’s history of performance and there will also be a number of fixed and pop-up venues, as well as shops and restaurants.
Earlier reports and plans for the project also included a park with a climbing structure, slides and seating areas.
And a ‘flower amphitheatre’ is part of the designs – though it is unclear whether these features are still included in the plans.
Eventually, there will be over 1,000 trees at the site by 2041.
During the first phase, 1,300 new homes will be built across six buildings, which includes a 42 floor skyscraper.
Earls Court Development Company (ECDC) is leading the project, which has taken four years to plan.
The Earls Court Exhibition Centre used to be a major events venue, which was closed in 2014 and then demolished.
It originally opened in 1937 with an Art Deco design and used to host lots of events like the British International Motor Show and concerts including Pink Floyd and David Bowie.
Once complete it will include 4,000 homes and three new cultural venuesCredit: VisualBank
The development will also be well connected, with three Tube stations and London Overground services nearby, as well as bus routes and pedestrian and cycle paths.
Construction is expected to begin at some point in 2026.
Rob Heasman, chief executive of ECDC, said: “Our plans will restore Earls Court as a global destination, a place for ingenuity, and for the extraordinary.
“Projects of this scale require ambition, partnership and patience to bring forward, and our ambition has been shaped by four years of engagement, listening and working in collaboration with our community.”
Jamie Ritblat, founder and executive chairman of Delancey, said: “It will create 23,500 jobs across the country, a new centre for the UK’s climate innovation sector, c.4,000 new homes and benefit the UK economy by £3 billion per year.
“Three new cultural venues will reinstate Earls Court as a destination people gravitate to for unparalleled performance and experiences, and the social and economic impact will be felt strongly throughout the local economies.”
Emmerdale fans think they have worked out how it will all end for Celia and Ray ITV soap after a tense scene played out during Wednesday night’s episode of the Yorkshire-based serial
22:10, 17 Dec 2025Updated 22:10, 17 Dec 2025
Emmerdale fans think they have worked it out(Image: ITV)
Emmerdale fans think they have worked out who will see to the end of Celia and Ray the ITV soap. The villainous farmer, who has been played by Jaye Griffiths over the last few months, has been carrying out a reign of terror across the Yorkshire village alongside Ray as she heads up a drug dealing operation and slavery ring.
Celia hasn’t acted alone, having recruited teenagers April Windsor and Dylan Penders into her evil scheme. But, mainly, she orchestrates the whole thing with her foster son Ray Walters, whom she took in off the streets several years ago.
The pair may have been a duo for decades, but after Celia scuppered Ray’s romance with Laurel Thomas in the latest episode of the ITV soap by making out he was something he was not, she had her foster son in tears during a tense seen that came at the end.
After slapping him straight across the face, she said: “You think she’ll make you life easier? She won’t! You need someone to keep you real, someone who will stop you drifting off into these fantasies of yours.
“She doesn’t know you, she doesn’t want you the way you think she does because you are weak, Ray. You need someone to tell you when to speak, how to feel, how to exist. And aren’t you lucky that I am still here doing exactly that.”
Ray promptly burst into tears, and Celia coldly said: “Cry if you want to. But wipe your face before anyone sees you. They already pity you, let’s not confirm why.” Celia then left the room and Ray punched the wall in a fit of rage.
Fans of the soap will know that Celia is set to leave Emmerdale after a relatively short stay in the village but have been left puzzled how Ray and Celia have yet to be exposed.
One fan wrote on Reddit: “Ross, Mackenzie, Lewis and Robert all know that Ray is a drug dealer after he wanted Lewis’ weed. Surely one at least one of them would have seen Ray still sniffing around in the village or seen him with Laurel? What’s the likelihood of all 4 of them not seeing Ray still sniffing around in the village? I know Ross saw him a few months ago but that didn’t lead to anywhere apart from Ross warning him to stay away from the village.”
“Yeah one of them would have seen him at least once around the village, in the cafe or the pub. Just so happened that when he’s been in the cafe Nicola has just seen him,” a second added. A third penned: “Did Mackenzie and Lewis meet him? Ross did confront him and he played it off. The only one who could know is Robert but he may not know the range of Ray’s drug business, he’s also not part of Laurel’s social circle,” with another fan responding: “Yep they all met him. It was one of his first appearances in the village. Mackenzie was actually the one who brought Ray to the village.”
Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays.
A PLAN to expand one UK airport has been approved – meaning it could become the second busiest in the country.
In 2024, the airport saw almost 30million passengers, but with the new plans could see 20million more.
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London Stansted wants to expand to welcome 20million additional passengers by 2040Credit: AlamyBut this won’t require any additional runways or physical expansionCredit: Alamy
The airport in question is London Stansted in Essex which has plans for more flights, but no structural changes.
London Stansted could rise to become the UK’s second busiest airport, rather than the fourth, after councillors agreed to increase its annual passenger numbers to 51million.
The owner, Manchester Airports Group’s, latest plan is to increase passenger capacity at the airport to between 48 and 51million people per year by 2040.
In comparison, London Gatwick sees between 40 to 43million passengers each year.
A fan has been left stunned after they spotted an Oscar-nominated actor alongside his huge popstar girlfriend at a London pub.
The pair were filmed in a busy boozer playing cards and ordering drinks, going seemingly unnoticed by the other punters around them.
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A fan has been left stunned after they spotted an Oscar-nominated actor alongside his huge popstar girlfriend at a London pubCredit: tiktok/@izabelle29012Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams were filmed in a busy boozer playing cards and ordering drinksCredit: tiktok/@izabelle29012The pair went seemingly unnoticed by the other punters around themCredit: tiktok/@izabelle29012
The VIP guests, were none other than actor Paul Mescal and his popstar girlfriend Gracie Abrams, who were sat in the middle of a busy North London pub.
In a video uploaded to TikTok the pair can be seen playing cards on a table together, in the beer garden of The Canonbury Tavern at night.
Paul looked inconspicuous in a cap whilst ordering drinks for the pair inside at the bar.
The fan took pics of the star as he ordered seemingly going unnoticed by the other punters around him.
The eagle-eyed fan captioned the video: “Paul Mescal & Gracie Abrams playing cards in Canonbury.”
In the second clip which showed the pics of the A-lister at the bar, she wrote: “Part two of seeing Paul Mescal, Got to keep one of the cards they were playing with.”
Fans flocked to the comments in disbelief over the pair’s unexpected appearance, one user penned: “NO WAY.”
A second added: “Is that really them ??? when was this omg.”
A worker of the pub revealed that she’s even served the star before, they wrote: “ I work at this pub and I’ve served him before (crying laughing emoji).”
They were spotted again this year having picnics and drinks in a park in June, before they were snapped getting close at Glastonbury ahead of Gracie’s set, that same month.
An insider said: “Obviously there weren’t really gyms around in the Sixties.
“The Beatles weren’t dead-lifting between gigs.
“Macca was always pretty lean and flexible — he has always been really into yoga — but this is a very different aesthetic to that of a burly gladiator, and Paul has been keeping his body pretty ripped, even after filming stopped.
“Sir Paul McCartney is also famously a vegetarian, whereas Paul mainly lives on a high protein steak, chicken and eggs diet.
“There also weren’t whey protein shakes back in the Beatles’ day.”
Oscar-nominated actor Paul was ordered to lose some muscle and put on some fat for his next big roleCredit: APThe couple were first linked in June 2024 when they were snapped having a romantic dinner date at celebrity haunt BRAT RestaurantCredit: GettyPaul attended Gracie’s Glastonbury set back in JuneCredit: stellamccartney/Instagram
Lacock village in Wiltshire is steeped in history and has been used as a filming location for Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, Pride and Prejudice and Wolf Hall, making visitors feel like they’re living in a period drama
08:00, 16 Dec 2025Updated 08:13, 16 Dec 2025
Visitors in the Cloisters at the Abbey(Image: Shared Content Unit)
Its Wiltshire timber-framed buildings and magnificent cloisters have drawn numerous productions beyond Austen’s tale to its grounds. Lacock’s famous medieval Cloister, dating back to around 1450, also houses a verdant Cloister Garth. This striking architectural feature appeared in countless Downton Abbey scenes, and doubled as sections of the castle in the original Harry Potter films. It also featured in the BBC’s Wolf Hall adaptation. One TripAdvisor reviewer awarded the destination five stars, saying: “An absolute must if you are in the area! A beautiful village, which you can visit by parking just across the road in the National Trust car park.
“The village is a pleasure to walk around, totally untouched throughout history and is quintessentially English! From the rows of tiny cottages, the church, the tiny bakery, the village pub and a hotel, it has everything and all these are open and running. We stayed for a couple of hours and then had a wander around the Abbey which is also impressive.”, reports Gloucestershire Live. Another reviewer described the village as “frozen in time”, with Explore the Cotswolds concurring that the location “looks a lot like it would have done 200 years ago.”
Lacock’s magnificent abbey began life as an Augustinian nunnery, shuttered during Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. Subsequently, John Ivory Talbot constructed the mock-Gothic hall – both are now in the care of the National Trust and available for afternoon exploration. A stone’s throw away stands St Cyriac’s Church. Initially believed to be a Saxon worship site, it later became Norman-controlled. The Church was erected near the close of the 11th century by Edward of Salisbury and William of Eu. The dedication to St Cyriac honours a beloved Norman saint.
The church houses numerous later memorials to the Baynards, Bonhams, Crokes, Sharingtons, Talbots and Awdreys. Yet for Harry Potter enthusiasts, the cloisters steal the show. For one devotee, exploring the cloisters topped her agenda upon arriving in Britain. She wrote: “Harry Potter fans NEED to do this! We’re from Canada. As soon as we landed in London, this was the very first thing we did. We did the Harry Potter Tour of London for Private Groups by Black Taxi. “Our guide was Richard and we can’t say enough good things about him! He was absolutely incredible! Ask him how he knows so much about this…such an interesting person, so knowledgeable and passionate about it all.”
Stranger Things fans have pinpointed a specific tragic moment in the season 5 volume 2 trailer.
Stranger Things fans are in a frenzy after Netflix released the official trailer for the second part of season five. The epic video shows Will Byers (played by Noah Schnapp) feeling deflated after the gang failed to save the children from Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower).
The teaser also shows Max Mayfield (Sadie Sink) and Holly Wheeler (Nell Fisher) as they attempt to escape Vecna’s trap, while the rest of the gang discover something major about the Upside Down.
While many fans still believe Steve Harrington (Joe Keery) could be at risk in the final season, other viewers believe another major death has flown under the radar, until now. They took to YouTube to pinpoint a specific moment, just over half-way into the video, when one of the main characters is seen coming face to face with a Demogorgon.
Robin Buckley (Maya Hawke) is seen walking down a hospital corridor, flanked by two armed men, as a Demogorgon comes charging towards them. The camera then turns to face the Demogorgon as it lunges at its target. @Kaiiizerrrp said: “1:18 omg, did you see Robin behind the military? [crying emoji]” While @Obama_Plays added: “Omg Robin please runnn” and @Sham-d3y shared: “I am gonna cry so bad.”
More fans picked up on the hint, with @AviAuthorColorado adding: “I’M GONNA CRY BRO LIKE ACTUALLY,” and @Sham-d3y expressing: “FINALLY SOMEONE SAW IT. I AM 100% SURE THAT’S THE SAD DEATH WHICH THE DUFFERS WERE TALKING ABOUT, IT WAS ROBIN ALL ALONG.”
This could be the case as episode five is titled Shock Jock, which refers to a DJ on a radio show who expresses opinions in a deliberately offensive or provocative way. At the start of season five, viewers saw Robin hosting her own show for The Squawk, which serves as a decoy for them to relay information regarding military operations to the Upside Down and the rest of the gang.
This is not the first time fans have predicted Robin’s death, as they believe Netflix had teased her demise after the unveiling of some photos for the fifth and final outing. The official Netflix Instagram account posted multiple photos showing cast members staring at an unseen threat, but one person was left out.
Robin’s absence did not go unnoticed, with one fan writing: “UM HI I BEG YOUR FINEST PARDON WHERE IS MY GIRL ROBIN AT?” Another added: “Hahaha very funny, where the HELL is Robin.”
Robin’s role in season five was pivotal as she helped Will harness his powers by making him believe in himself and not fear his authenticity. She also helped validate Will’s feelings when it came to romance, as she opened up on her relationship with Vickie Dunne (Amybeth McNulty).
Fans took to Reddit to explain how they believed Robin’s emotional speech in volume one of the final season is “SO intensely ‘this character will die’ coded.” MedievZ said: “The Duffers most definitely are not killing off the main core cast. Steve is too obvious of a death.
“Robin is the perfect character to die and get the maximum emotional impact while fitting into the story nicely and being an unexpected gutpunch. We do not see much of Robin in the remaining trailer shots.”
Elsewhere in the season five, volume two trailer, Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) was seen asking Kali (Linnea Berthelsen) to help her find and kill Venca, after the character’s epic return was unveiled in episode four. Dustin Henderson (Gaten Matarazzo) and Steve were also seen making a pact as they said: “You die, I die.”
Regardless of whether she meets her demise in the final season, Robin is set to live on through the latest Stranger Things novel – One Way or Another. The book, by TV writer and novelist Caitlin Schneiderhan, focuses on Nancy Wheeler (Natalia Dyer) and Robin as they solve an unexplained phenomenon.
The story is set following the events of Stranger Things season four – two months since Vecna’s earthquake tore through the town. Nancy and Robin are convinced they have discovered Vecna’s next victim – fellow student Joey Taft.
Stranger Things season 5 part 2 airs on Christmas Day in the US and Boxing Day in the UK
A HUGE Noughties boyband has sparked speculation of a 2026 tour after all ten members recently reunited.
The unexpected get-together has sent fans into a frenzy begging the question of whether a full-scale comeback could finally be on the cards.
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All members of huge Noughties boyband Blazin’ Squad reunite as they spark 2026 tour speculationCredit: InstagramThe photos show the group beaming ear to ear as they came together at the bar Flight Club in LondonCredit: Instagram
Blazin’ Squad was made up of James MacKenzie (Kenzie), Ollie Georgiou (Freek), Marcel Somerville (Rocky B), Chris McKeckney (Melo-D), Stuart Baker (Reepa), Lee Bailey (Krazy), Sam Foulkes (Spike-E), James Murray (Flava), Tom Beasley (Tommy-B), and Mustafa Omer (Strider) when they shot to fame.
The group officially split in 2005 and over the years the band members have gone in different directions.
Marcel Somerville enjoyed success on Love Island, having been on the show in 2017, before having another go in January on the All Stars spin-off.
All ten members have since reunited for the festive season, it being the first time since Marcel’s first stint on the ITV2 dating show.
Rapper James Kenzie, who’s had his own reality stint appearing on Celebrity Big Brother in 2005, took to Instagram to share brand new snaps of the band.
The photos show the group beaming ear to ear as they came together at the bar Flight Club in London.
James uploaded a series of pics of the band alongside a nostalgic throwback from the 2000’s, showing the group decked out head-to-toe in red.
He captioned the post: “The Original Squad,” adding a number one medal emoji.
Fans flooded the comments, gushing over the pics and speculating about whether this could hint at a future tour.
One user said: “Please tell me talks of a tour was in conversation? (side eye emoji).”
Another added: “Aged like a fine wine (heart eye emoji)”
“Blazin’ squad reunion incoming plz,” penned a third, whilst a fourth commented: “Need a new Blazin’ Squad Album.”
“So good to see Blazin’ Squad as a 10 piece again now that is the Blazin’ Squad I grew up with,” chimed another.
The group’s various attempts to get all members back together have been stalled.
Marcel Somerville, Stuart Baker, Sam Foulkes and Chris McKeckney reunited in 2006, but later split again.
Three years later a slim-lined Blazin’ Squad returned as a five-piece featuring Mustafa Omer, James Murray, James McKenzie, Lee Bailey and Marcel.
But, what fans really want to see is all ten members come back together on stage again.
Previously speaking to The Sun about a potential reunion and tour, Marcel said: “Obviously there are ten of us, it makes it a little bit harder, because that’s more people we have to bring back to the camp.
“Do you know what? I feel like if we could get all ten of us back together, I reckon we could definitely do the O2.
“Back in the day, before we split, we’d played Wembley, and had two nights in Manchester, two nights in Newcastle, and two nights in Birmingham.
“We were playing all the arenas, so it’s like, if we could get everyone back.
“Last year was the 22nd anniversary, so I think the 25th anniversary is probably the sweet spot. So maybe in three years’ time, 25th anniversary, I might start a whole campaign for it now, to bring the Squad back together.”
Blazin’ Squad shot to fame in 2002 and are best known for their top three hits Crossroads, We Just Be Dreamin’ and Flip ReverseCredit: InstagramMarcel Somerville enjoyed success on Love Island having been on the show in 2017 and again in 2025 for All StarsCredit: RexRapper James MacKenzie had his own reality stint appearing on Celebrity Big Brother in 2005Credit: Instagram
Strictly Come Dancing could be set for more big changes to go alongside Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s decision to step away from presenting duties at the end of the current series
Changes to Strictly have been speculated
Strictly bosses are reportedly eyeing up a big change for the scandal-hit show. Insiders claim the BBC dance contest could be about to up sticks and move north.
Currently, the long-running series is being filmed at a studio in Elstree, Hertfordshire. But reports suggest Kate Phillips, the BBC’s Chief Content Officer is “thinking seriously” about relocating to Media City in Salford, Greater Manchester.
It would see the show move to Dock 10, which is a purpose built studio complex in Media City. And it’s claimed any move would also see the show get a new boss with speculation rife over whether long-standing executive producer Sarah James is currently overseeing her final Strictly contest.
A source told MailOnline: “She [Kate Phillips] is thinking about it seriously.” A TV insider also told The Sun: “A shift to Salford would be seismic.
“It would also make sense on many levels, but mostly from a PR perspective. It’s a clear statement of intent from the Beeb, who want to draw a line under the show’s troubled time at Elstree.
“There is a lingering sense of anguish that now seems to hover around the show and it’s one that bosses really want to dispel.”
And the source also claimed the move would be “logical in many ways”. However, a BBC spokesperson has since told the Mirror: “There are no plans to move Strictly Come Dancing, any suggestion is pure speculation.”
The show has been hit with a number of controversies and scandals in recent years. And there will also be new presenters from the next series after the announcement that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are stepping away from their duties.
After shocking fans with their statement part way through the current series, speculation quickly mounted about who will replace the dynamic duo. And professional dancer Ian Waite, who appeared on the show from 2004 until 2009, has shared who he thinks will be a great replacement for the pair.
Speaking to Reach about Tess and Claudia’s decision to leave the show on behalf of Zingo Bingo, Ian said: “I think it was a big, big shock for everybody that they decided to leave but when you’ve been doing something so long.
“Tess has been doing it for 21 years, it’s a long time to be doing any job. She might want to just move on to do different things and Claudia’s got Traitors, which is huge now So I can understand why they made the decision.
“I think they’ve been amazing but wouldn’t it be nice to have two men presenting this time just to spice it up? It’s been very much female presenter led.
“The main show and It Takes Two, so it would be nice to see some male presenters back in there just to balance it up. I think the public would like to see it.”
Mickey Rourke is trying to get his movie career back on trackCredit: GettyMickey has been linked to a new Ozzy Osbourne biopicCredit: EPARourke could also take on the role of music legend Johnny CashCredit: Getty
But luckily for Mickey his name has been linked to two big-screen biopics.
One is about the life of Black Sabbath legend Ozzy Osbourne while another will be on US country legend Johnny Cash.
One of my Hollywood insiders said Mickey’s name had repeatedly come up in meetings about the films when discussions turned to casting the older versions of the music legends.
They told me: “Producers here don’t even know about the Celebrity Big Brother thing, Mickey is golden in the States.
“This town also loves an underdog, and movie bosses think Mickey still has an Oscar-worthy performance they can wring out of him.
“He was a top actor back in the day — he would have been on a par with James Dean and Marlon Brando if he hadn’t taken wrong turns and gone down a bad path.
If the evil overlords of Hollywood give us the green light we could be filming in the spring
Jack Osbourne
“There are scripts in the pipeline on Ozzy and Johnny, and Mickey’s name has come up in meetings about both projects.
“They want to portray Ozzy’s final days before that amazing show at Villa Park, and they want a performance like Mickey gave in The Wrestler.
“They’re confident he could do it.”
It’s understood streaming giants Amazon MGM and Apple are interested in both projects, with big-name directors in the frame to oversee it — including Martin Scorsese.
Ozzy’s son Jack Osbourne first told me they were working on a film about his dad’s life before Ozzy’s homecoming show back in July.
Jack said: “We do have the film on the way. We have a lot of good forward momentum on the Ozzy biopic.
“We have a director attached now and the script is done and Sony Studios is going to be producing it.
“We are really excited about it so maybe we will do the premiere here in Birmingham.
“If the evil overlords of Hollywood give us the green light we could be filming in the spring so maybe it will be out summer 2027 — fingers crossed.”
I’m sure Mickey will be crossing his toes, as well as his fingers, that he gets the part.
JAMIE LEE: IT’S FREAKIER ONLINE
HER long-awaited sequel to 2003’s Freaky Friday – imaginatively titled Freakier Friday – went down a storm with fans.
And Hollywood legend Jamie Lee Curtis says she knows exactly why we are seeing a resurgence in sequels and prequels.
Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan in Freakier FridayCredit: PA
Speaking to comedian Geoff Norcott on this Times Radio show, Jamie said: “Nostalgia is very hot right now.
“Because people are feeling so freaked out by what’s happening that you cling, you cling to nostalgia to make you feel safe.”
Jamie, whose new film Ella McCay is out now, went on to slam cancel culture and attacks on free speech.
She added: “We’re all trying to figure out, what can we say? What can’t we say?
“The echo chamber is awful. Social media is awful. You say something that you believe in, you get hammered for it. I mean, hardcore.
“It’s hard to hold on to both the frustration you’re feeling but the sense of optimism and hope.
“I feel hope because I believe that the hatred is imploding, and I think we’re seeing it.”
Bizbit
GLASTONBURY might be two years away but festival boss Emily Eavis is busy curating the 2027 line up.
And Universal International’s official Instagram account has appeared to confirm that Tomora – made up of Norwegian singer Aurora and Tom Rowlands from The Chemical Brothers – have already been locked in.
The post also claims the supergroup will play California’s Coachella Festival next summer.
This would be incredible
IT’S STAR SHREK
THE life of a Bizarre reporter isn’t all red carpets and bubbly – sometimes you end up in a swamp with an ogre and a talking donkey.
Our Jack was invited backstage at the latest adaptation of Shrek: The Musical at Colchester’s Charter Hall to meet the cast before they kicked off their near sold-out run at the venue.
Jack backstage at Shrek The MusicalCredit: Supplied
With Red Dwarf’s Danny John Jules as Donkey and CITV’s Chris Edgerley as Lord Farquaad, the show is based on the hit 2001 film starring Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy.
Shrek and Princess Fiona are played by Joseph Rawlings and Rachel Jerram.
A refreshing change from the annual festive panto, the cast delivered a brilliant version of the big screen hit with a seriously impressive set to match.
Shout out to Ceris Hine as the perfectly executed Gingy, delivering our favourite Gingerbread Man performance of the year.
Chatting backstage about playing the pint-sized villain, Chris explained how spending the show on his knees left him in agony at times.
He said: “I’m a lot taller than Farquaad so I’m knee-padded up to the hilt but it’s worth it.
“Halfway through rehearsals we had to add extra padding as it was hurting too much.
“Hopefully the audience will have as much fun as we do.”
Unlike the fairytale dictator, this musical certainly doesn’t come up short.
JAMIE’S SO FESTIVE
Jamie Cullum: The Pianoman At Christmas @ Royal Albert Hall, London
★★★★★
Jamie Cullum performs at the Royal Albert HallCredit: Alamy
THERE’S nothing more festive than a trip to London’s Royal Albert Hall at Christmas – although a Jamie Cullum show there beats anything else to get you in the spirit.
Inspired by his criminally underrated 2020 album The Pianoman At Christmas, his two-hour seasonal spectacle, backed by a big band – “this is what expensive musicians sound like,” he half-joked – was an absolute treat.
And soon there will be more. He said of himself and wife Sophie Dahl : “We are trying to write the film of the Pianoman At Christmas.
“I told her I was going to announce it tonight so now we have to finish it.”
His voice is as smooth as a pricey whiskey and sounded just as great doing his original numbers as it did with family favourites Frosty The Snowman and Jingle Bells.
And as for Hang Your Lights, it deserves to be a modern Christmas classic.
Forget the turkey and mistletoe, Jamie Cullum’s annual festive show should be a staple of everyone’s Christmas.
HOWELL DAVIES
LILY’S SKIT ON STRANGER FLINGS
DAVID HARBOUR has another TV show to avoid, after his ex-wife Lily Allen called up Dakota Johnson to bring her infamous “Madeline” to life on Saturday Night Live.
Lily Allen performed on Saturday Night LiveCredit: YouTube/NBCDakota Johnson brought Lily’s infamous ‘Madeline’ to life on the showCredit: YouTube/NBCLily performed her explosive track TennisCredit: YouTube/NBCLily was married to Stranger Things star David HarbourCredit: Getty
At the end of Lily’s performance, Dakota brought Madeline to life and appeared to reveal for the first time what this other woman may have told Lily about allegedly getting with David behind her back.
Dakota said: “I hate that you’re in so much pain right now.
“I really don’t want to be the cause of any upset.
“He told me that you were aware this was going on and that he had your full consent.
“’If he’s lying about that, then please let me know.
“Because I have my own feelings about dishonesty. Lies are not something that I want to get caught up in.”
Dakota then planted a kiss on Lily’s cheek as she said: “Love and light, Madeline.”
Or there is Freefall Plus, where riders are launched at speed town the slide, as well as the dual-ride Aqua Twist and Parallel Pursit.
There is even a surf simulator and a lazy river to try, as well as a fake beach with simulated waves.
For younger guests, there is a dedicated area with shallower pool and splash towers, as well as more shaded seating.
Otherwise you can also rent private luxury cabanas which have their own plunge pools.
Most read in Beach holidays
The hotel’s managing director Fathi Khogaly said: “The opening of our new waterpark marks a significant milestone for Grand Hyatt Dubai, as it elevates our leisure offerings and transforms the property into a truly unique destination, where large-scale events, exceptional hospitality and unforgettable leisure experiences seamlessly come together.
The waterpark is currently only open to guests of the Grand Hyatt Dubai Resort.
There are both big slides and smaller kid-friendly zonesCredit: WhiteWater Group
Aquaventure Waterpark is on the edge of Palm Jumeriah and has huge over 105 slides, attractions and even a private beach.
Not only is it named the best thing to do in Dubai on Tripadvisor but it has the world’s largest dedicated kids zone with lagoon, slides, pools and fountains.
It costs 330 UAE (£72.12) to visit for the day, but sign up and you can visit for free if its your birthday (or six days before and after).
WILLY Wonka star Timothée Chalamet showed his real-life love of chocolates — by buying £3,500 worth in a spree.
The star, 29, called at posh Harrods department store to snap up lots of boxes of the goodies made by top Italian maker Venchi.
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Willy Wonka star Timothée Chalamet spent a whopping £3,500 on chocolateCredit: AlamyThe star spent the huge sum at posh department store HarrodsCredit: Alamy
He whisked the lot back to his five-star hotel, The Emory London, where four staff unloaded the haul onto a baggage trolley.
Timothée rented out the penthouse suite, which costs £11,000 a night, for his British jaunt.
For more than a century, Warner Bros has been one of Hollywood’s biggest players, a legacy studio that helped define the Golden Age of cinema with iconic blockbuster movies. Now, it’s at the centre of a contentious, billion-dollar bidding war between Netflix, the world’s leading streaming platform, and Paramount Skydance, owned by the powerful Ellison family, which has close ties to President Trump.
Whichever way this goes, the outcome isn’t looking great.
Contributors: Matt Craig – Reporter, Forbes Daheli Hall – Writer and director Lee Hepner – Antitrust lawyer Dominic Patten – Executive editor, Deadline
On our radar
This week, Australia became the first country in the world to impose a social media ban for children less than the age of 16. The Australian government says it is taking on Big Tech and safeguarding children, but some young people were able to quickly bypass the new rules. Ryan Kohls reports.
The Imran Khan rumour mill
Despite being in jail for more than two years, Imran Khan continues to occupy airtime in Pakistan. After the army restricted access to Khan, rumours of his death ricocheted across social media. Pressure from his supporters and family forced the military to lift the restrictions and grant Khan’s sisters access to speak to him. Meenakshi Ravi reports on the showdown between Imran Khan and powerful Field Marshal Asim Munir, and what it reveals about power, politics and narrative control in Pakistan.
Featuring: Amber Rahim Shamsi – Pakistan Editor, Nukta Moeed Pirzada – Political YouTuber Mohammed Hanif – Author and journalist
BBC bosses have reportedly selected their top ten options for replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as Strictly Come Dancing hosts, and they are set to undergo ‘chemistry tests’
23:10, 12 Dec 2025Updated 23:15, 12 Dec 2025
The BBC is preparing to audition replacement hosts for Strictly Come Dancing(Image: Guy Levy/BBC/PA)
The BBC is ramping up its search for the next faces of Strictly Come Dancing, with insiders revealing that a shortlist of ten high-profile presenters is set to be put through intense on-screen chemistry tests as the corporation prepares for a new era of the hit show.
Now that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are stepping down from the series after more than two decades at the helm, bosses are said to be leaving nothing to chance.
According to insider sources, a “Golden Ten” have been assembled to take part in a secret studio session next month where presenters will reportedly be paired up in various combinations to see who has the strongest rapport on camera.
A source told The Sun: “Replacing Claudia and Tess is a mammoth task, but the BBC have whittled down the talent to ten people. They will go to a studio and be put into different pairs to see who works together best.”
Some of the frontrunners are Bradley Walsh, The One Show’s Alex Jones and British comedian Alan Carr, who is understood to be the current favourite among senior BBC figures.
Rylan Clark, Rob Rinder, Zoe Ball, Holly Willoughby, Amanda Holden, Alison Hammond and Angela Scanlon are also taking part. The source added: “It could be two women or two men paired, or a mix. They will ultimately choose whoever has the best chemistry in each partnership.”
Some contenders already have tried and tested on-screen dynamics. Rylan and Rob currently front a BBC travel series together, while Alan and Amanda host a home renovation show.
Meanwhile, Zoe Ball is seen as a safe pair of hands after previously presenting the Strictly spin-off It Takes Two. Alan’s growing appeal at the BBC has reportedly pushed him into first place among the talent being considered.
Given he is fresh off winning the Celebrity Traitors and has just recently landed a new quiz show, insiders believe he could bring a whole new audience to the ballroom.
Meanwhile, Strictly fans are bracing themselves for a sad goodbye to Tess and Claudia. The pair announced their decision to leave the show in October, explaining that it felt like “the right time” to step away after years at the helm.
Tess, who has presented Strictly since its launch in 2004, and Claudia, who joined in 2014, insisted they were always determined to leave together, calling their partnership “an absolute dream”.
The duo hosted Strictly for their penultimate episode tonight, and have already filmed their final Christmas special. Those at the recording studio said emotions were running high, with one insider revealing: “Tess was wiping away tears. The last Strictly episode next week is going to be emotional.”
The presenters were recently honoured with a touching message from the widow of the late Sir Bruce Forsyth, Wilnelia Forsyth, who praised both women for the “laughter, the elegance and the heart” they brought to the show.
BBC Question Time host Fiona Bruce had some important news to share during tonight’s show – Fiona paused a debate surrounding the lifting of the two-child benefit cap to make the announcement
Fiona Bruce stopped the debate to make the important announcement(Image: BBC)
Question Time host Fiona Bruce made a huge announcement about theBBC show’s future during tonight’s episode.
Thursday evening’s panel consisted of Stephen Flynn, Anas Sarwar, Russell Findlay, Angela Haggerty and Lord Malcolm Offord, who has defected to Reform. The current affairs debate was coming from Paisley inScotland.
After discussing the two child benefit cap Fiona said: “It’s been quite hard work this programme really to get a word in edgeways with you guys but we’re going to try aren’t we.” She then shared some important news about the programme’s future.
She said: “Before we get to the next question, we want to say this is our last show of 2025. We’re back on January 22 in Macclesfield. So if you live in or around Macclesfield and you would like to come and be part of the audience, apply (on) our website, and hopefully we will see you there on the 22nd of January.”
After the brief announcement the panel continued answering questions from audience members. James Sinclair put a question to the panel about the percentage of children in schools who don’t speak English as a first language.
When does the show take breaks throughout the year and why?
This break is just one of the usual breaks which the show takes as they work around Parliament’s schedule. Since the MPs will not be sitting over the festive season the show takes the opportunity to go off air.
They also break for a couple of weeks at Easter, the dates vary depending on when the holiday falls. There is a further and longer break of around 6 weeks during Parliament’s summer recess.
BBC Question Time returns on January 22 in Macclesfield and then on January 29 in King’s Lynn.
SHE’s the ultimate Queen of Christmas, best known for her soulful pop tunes, but I can reveal Mariah Carey’s next record will surprise fans.
After years of speculation, I’m told the Hero singer will release her long lost GRUNGE album next year.
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Mariah Carey will release her long lost GRUNGE album next yearCredit: Getty
While the exact date is still being worked out by the label, I hear it will drop in the second half of 2026.
The record, which is called Someone’s Ugly Daughter, was secretly recorded by Mariah back in the Nineties.
A source said: “Ever since she let slip about the existence of the record, fans have been desperate for it to be officially released and put on streaming.
“After years of casual talks about what to do, everyone has now agreed the album will be released in the second half of 2026.
“It’s been a long time coming, but hopefully fans think it’s worth the wait.
“It’s certainly Mariah as you’ve never heard her before.”
The first anyone knew of the record was when Mariah let slip about it in 2020 memoir, The Meaning Of Mariah Carey.
She said: “I think this unearthed version will become, yes, something we should hear. I’m working on a version of something where there’ll be another artist working on this with me as well.”
‘So carefree’
Mariah says the reason she made the album was to push back at being over-controlled by her record label, adding: “I had no freedom during that time. That was my freedom, making that record.”
In the book, she said: “I was playing with the style of the breezy-grunge, punk-light white female singers who were popular at the time. You know, the ones who seemed to be so carefree with their feelings and their image.
“I honestly wanted to put the record out back then under, you know, the same pseudonym, just put it out and be like, you know whatever, let them discover that it’s me.
“But that idea was kind of stomped and squashed.”
I wait with bated breath . . .
Hardworking Rita worth even m-Ora
Rita Ora is busy landing jobs doing everythingCredit: Getty
EVEN if you’re not a fan of her music, it’s impossible to deny that Rita Ora is a hustler.
The I Will Never Let You Down singer is busy landing jobs doing everything from acting and presenting to modelling and working as a charity ambassador.
Which is why it comes as no surprise to us that the latest accounts for Ora Live and Ora Multi Services reveal she’s topped up her fortune with £4.8 million in profits.
It’s a sure sign Rita is going nowhere anytime soon as the figure is more than double the £2.3 million she made the year before.
Her companies manage her various income streams and reflect her broad career beyond singing.
Multi-talented Rita has also served as a judge on The X Factor and The Masked Singer and even had a film role in the Fifty Shades movie series.
Rita’s takings – which work out at £13,000 per day over the year to April – has helped to increase her net worth to £31 million.
It’s not a bad life, eh?
Kath: LA life not for me
Katherine Ryan has ruled out moving to HollywoodCredit: Getty
CANADIAN comedian Katherine Ryan has ruled out moving to Hollywood after admitting she hates everything about Tinsel Town.
Letting rip, she said: “I would love some opportunities to do some comedy acting but I will never move to Hollywood because people seem quite sick there . . . in the head.
“I like England. I like people who aren’t positive all the time.
“I like the British way of telling the truth. I like a bit of taking the mick out of one another without getting offended.”
Not stopping there, Kath added: “Hollywood to me seems too sanitised. I would not be welcome.
“I’ve already not been welcome. I had a glass of vino in the morning when my daughter was swimming, they were like, ‘Maam, orange juice?’.
“I was like, ‘No, alcohol’. They nearly called the police.”
Ed’s a winner
ED SHEERAN, Myles Smith and Teddy Swims all won big at the inaugural Global Player Awards.
The ceremony celebrates the most listened to artists across their stations and Ed, Myles and Timmy were all honoured for achieving Two Billion Listens over the past year.
Accepting his gong, Ed said: “I don’t even know how to quantify that, two billion is a lot.”
Taylor in her stride
Superstar Taylor Swift has hit back at criticsCredit: Getty
TAYLOR SWIFT has hit back at critics who say she should take time out from the industry to give other artists space to shine.
Appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Taylor said: “There are corners that are like, ‘Give someone else a turn! Can’t you just go away so we can talk about how good you were?’.
“And like . . . ‘I don’t want to’.”
This morning, the first two episodes dropped of The End Of An Era – a six- part Disney+ docuseries that goes behind the scenes of her record-breaking Eras Tour.
You can bet come next week the show will have broken a few more records.
Tate: Why I can be a pop girl
TATE McRAE has opened up about her on-stage alter-ego Tatiana.
The Canadian star explained: “I started to black out onstage and become this person that I couldn’t explain, nor could my family or my friends, and I needed a reason for it.
“And I think it helps me grasp the strange theory of why I’m not nervous in front of 15,000 people, and why I can be nervous at a dinner party with four people.”
She added to Rolling Stone magazine: “Tate is this very introspective, very sensitive, very introverted, awkward Canadian.
“Maybe more on the shy side. I’m observant, and I feel very internal, all the time.
“And then, this persona that I’ve created is my way of being this confident pop girl.”
Sam: Stay with me, Ed
Sam Smith was joined on stage at Warsaw in Brooklyn by Ed SheeranCredit: Getty
SAM SMITH made sure the final of their To Be Free: New York City residency went off with a bang.
The Stay With Me singer was joined on stage at Warsaw in Brooklyn by Ed Sheeran and Brandi Carlile.
Brandi and Sam duetted on her song Party Of One, while Sam and Ed gave a rendition of Who We Love – a track on Sam’s 2023 album Gloria.
The show was watched by American Vogue’s ice-queen former editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.
In February, Sam’s residency will move to San Francisco and will play at the historic Castro Theatre for eight nights.
While nothing has even been hinted at, I wouldn’t be surprised if a run of shows in London is announced in the New Year.
Liam’s trackie record
Liam Gallagher has been named in Vogue’s inaugural 50 best dressed listCredit: Getty
HIS dress sense is similar to my own, so I was shocked to see Liam Gallagher named in Vogue’s inaugural 50 best dressed list.
The Oasis rocker was mentioned in the Dedicated Dressers category alongside Iris Law, Miquita Oliver and Amal Clooney.
Meanwhile, my favourite pop star Dua Lipa was in the Music Makers category alongside a line-up of stellar talent including Skepta, Central Cee, Lily Allen and Charli XCX.
Even those with a slightly eclectic taste were catered for, with The Traitors host Claudia Winkleman, and actors Cynthia Erivo, Richard E Grant and Emma Corrin all getting a nod.
I never knew my Adidas tracksuit and tatty old Parka were so cool.
Lily to perform sunshine gig
FANS of Lily Allen will get another chance to see her live in 2026 – and in a bit of sunshine. The singer will perform her new album West End Girl at the Bilbao BBK Live festival, in Spain, which runs from July 9 to 11.
Other confirmed performers include Robbie Williams, Idles, CMAT, Interpol and David Byrne.
Tickets for the festival, which is held on Mount Kobetamendi, are on sale now.
Xmas hit battle
Kylie Minogue has been tipped as a front runner for the Christmas No1Credit: Getty
THE official race for Christmas No1 kicks off today – with a new single from Kylie Minogue and WHAM!’s Last Christmas tipped as the front-runners.
Kylie’s song Xmas, which is on track to become her highest entry in the UK charts since 2010’s All The Lovers, leads the pack, while Denise Welch’s Slayyy Bells and Tom Fletcher’s One Of Us, from Paddington The Musical, are also in the running.
Classics including Shakin’ Stevens’ Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pogues’ Fairytale Of New York, and Kelly Clarkson’s Underneath The Tree are also expected to climb the chart.
There are a load of non-festive tunes vying for a shot too, with Raye’s Where Is My Husband, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s For Good and Labrinth’s Where Love Lives.
The winner of the Christmas No1 will be revealed live on Radio 1 next Friday.
Wham’s Last Christmas is also in the battle for top spotCredit: AlamyDenise Welch’s Slayyy Bells is in the runningCredit: Getty
RUNNERS AND RIDERS
KYLIE MINOGUE – Xmas RAYE – Where Is My Husband! OLIVIA DEAN – So Easy (To Fall In Love) TAYLOR SWIFT – The Fate Of Ophelia/Opalite DENISE WELCH – Slayyy Bells HUNTR/X – Golden/How It’s Done/What It Sounds Like TOM FLETCHER – One Of Us IAN GILLAN & UROCK – In Line TOGETHER FOR PALESTINE – Lullaby SPUDBROS & VICKY McCLURE’s OUR DEMENTIA CHOIR – Brighter Than The Night HOME CARE’s GOT TALENT CHOIR – Angels THE POGUES ft KIRSTH MacCOLL – Fairytale Of New York KELLY CLARKSON – Underneath The Tree CHRIS REA – Driving Home For Christmas SHAKIN’ STEVENS – Merry Christmas Everyone WHAM! – Last Christmas MARIAH CAREY – All I Want For Christmas Is You SLADE – Merry Xmas Everybody
Samos is known for relaxing beaches, serene water and traditional tavernas, like Welcome Bar Restaurant, a TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award for 2025, where tourists can grab fresh seafood dishes including grilled cod and octopus.
One popular thing to see on the island is the monuments of Kings’, Priests and other significant figures.
And there are two UNESCO monuments on the island, including the ancient city of Pythagoreion and the ancient Temple of Hera, Heraion of Samos.
The island is also a great spot for keen hikers, with mountains, caves and ravines to explore.
For example, you could head to Mount Kerkis, which stands 1400 metres above sea level.
If hiking isn’t your thing though, there is plenty more to explore on Samos including the town, where you’ll find neoclassical buildings.
The island has several beaches too, including Tsamadou Beach, which is lined with pine trees and features clear water.
Alternatively, head to Kokkari Beach, which is located in a charming village.
A meal on Samos is likely to set you back around €10 (£8.76) and a beer around €4 (£3.50).
Preveza
Meanwhile, Preveza has also seen an increase in bookings, up 10 per cent.
It is the ideal destination for reaching Lefkada, meaning travellers can experience two destinations in one trip.
Preveza is located at the edge of the Amvrakikos Gulf and features a number of ancient sites as well as stunning landscapes.
In the Old Town, visitors can explore the historic port and get lost in a number of narrow, cobbled alleys that lead away from the harbour, with several traditional buildings too.
One key spot worth discovering is Saitan Bazar, which is a historic lane featuring tiny independent shops and cafes, that are covered in vines and known for having lively atmospheres.
For beaches, there is plenty of choice too, including Monolithi – which is one of Europe‘s longest sandy beaches, stretching between 13.5 and 15.5 miles long.
In Preveza, travellers will find one of Europe’s longest beachesCredit: Getty
One recent visitor said: “Monolithi Beach is a long, beautiful, and mostly empty beach – perfect for those who enjoy peace and quiet by the sea.
“There is plenty of space to relax without crowds, as well as lots of natural shade near the parking area.”
A meal in Preveza is likely to set you back around €8 (£7.01) and a beer around €3 (£2.63).
Kefalonia
Kefalonia has seen growth, especially with couples and families visiting.
Caroline McGuire, The Sun’s Head of Travel – Digital, said: “I visited Kefalonia on a family holiday a few years ago, after looking for the ideal Greek island for a trip with a three year old.
“The island in the Ionian Sea — a Hollywood star in its own right thanks to the 2001 film version of Louis de Bernieres wartime novel — ticked all the boxes and boasts what is often claimed as Greece’s best beach.
“We spent a week on the island in mid-May and enjoyed everything it had to offer — without spending too much money.
Myrtos beach in Kefalonia is regularly named one of Greece’s top fiveCredit: Alamy
“Our timing (outside of school holidays) meant we were one of the few tourist groups on the island.
“The weather was still perfect though. The average is highs of 21C in May and the same in October.
“There were no crowds, either. Looking out at Myrtos beach, which is regularly named one of Greece’s top five, it felt like we were being let in on a great secret.”
A meal on Kefalonia is likely to set you back around €13.50 (£11.82) and a beer around €4.25 (£3.81).
A meal on Kefalonia is likely to set you back around €13.50 (£11.82)Credit: Getty
Halkidiki
In Halkidiki, another island seeing a boom, there are more stunning beaches, as well as secluded coves.
An amazing spot to explore is Mount Athos, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important centres of Orthodox monasticism.
It is known as the ‘Holy Mountain’ and is home to 20 historic monasteries, including ones that date back over 1,000 years.
In this region you can expect a meal at an inexpensive restaurant to set you back around €7 (£6.13) and a beer around €2.75 (£2.41).
Halkidiki is home to Mount Athos, which has 20 historic monasteriesCredit: Alamy
Commercial director at TUI UK & Ireland, Chris Logan said: “What we are seeing is Brits exploring Greece in a whole new way.
“These picturesque islands offer incredible beaches, amazing food and fantastic value without the crowds allowing people the chance to truly relax and indulge.
“The demand shows travellers are ready to go beyond the classics and discover Greece’s hidden gems and TUI makes it simple, with flights, transfers, hotels and 24/7 support all sorted.”
For other places worth visiting in Greece, there is an island with 70 beaches that experts warn you should see before it gets too popular.
It’s going to be a tough one to call after so many sporting highlights across the year, in so many different sports
Gabby Logan, Clare Balding and Alex Scott will again host BBC Sports Personality Of The Year 2025(Image: Matt McNulty/Getty Images))
The six sports stars who are contenders to win this year’s Sports Personality of the Year from the BBC have been announced following a sensational year of sporting drama in 2025.
Golfer Rory McIlroy is the bookies’ favourite to lift the trophy, and knows he’s in with a good shout, as he announced weeks ago that he would be attending the ceremony – for the first time in a decade. The full list of the contenders is split 50:50 between men and women:
Hannah Hampton (Football, 25)
Hampton’s spectacular 2025 culminated in her winning the Yashin Trophy for the world’s best female goalkeeper at the Ballon d’Or awards. Her heroics in saving two spot-kicks in a penalty shootout helped England win the European Championship final and she was named Player of the Match. She was included in the Team of the Tournament following a string of commanding performances that included another two shootout saves in their quarter-final. At club level she played a key role in Chelsea’s domestic treble and was the joint winner of the WSL’s Golden Glove award with 13 clean sheets in 22 games.
Chloe Kelly (Football, 27)
In January, Kelly was unsure of her place for club and country. Fast forward to the summer and she was a European Championship and Champions League winner. The hero of the Euro 2022 final showed she’s still England’s player for the big moments by scoring the decisive penalty as the Lionesses retained the trophy. Despite not starting a match, her contributions were immense with another successful penalty in the quarter-final shootout and a last-gasp semi-final winner. Named in the Team of the Tournament, she was fifth in the Women’s Ballon d’Or voting, and was integral to Arsenal’s Champions League success.
Ellie Kildunne (Rugby Union, 26)
Superstar Kildunne scored five tries and played a crucial role as England won the Women’s Rugby World Cup on home soil. After missing the quarter-final due to a concussion, the full-back returned with gusto for the semi-final and scored twice for the Red Roses against France. In the final against Canada, she had a world-record crowd on their feet as she scored a trademark dazzling solo try. Earlier in the year, she scored four tries as England once again recorded a Grand Slam as they retained their Six Nations title. At club level, she scored 14 tries for Harlequins.
Luke Littler (Darts, 18)
Littler’s 2025 began in sensational style as he became the youngest world champion in darts history aged just 17 with a dominant victory in the final. His subsequent victory at the Matchplay made him only the fifth player to complete the PDC Triple Crown of World Championship, Premier League and Matchplay titles. And he wasn’t finished there – his triumph in November’s Grand Slam of Darts saw him rise to world number one for the first time. At 18, he is the youngest man to do so, smashing the previous record set by a then 24-year-old Michael van Gerwen.
Rory McIlroy (Golf, 36)
After years of frustration and near misses, McIlroy’s victory at the Masters made him only the sixth man in history to complete a Grand Slam of golf’s four major championships. His dramatic play-off triumph at Augusta was his first victory at a major since 2014. At the Ryder Cup, he shrugged off a hostile crowd to contribute three-and-a-half points as Europe won in America for the first time since 2012. Further wins came at the Players Championship, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the Irish Open, before he topped off a stellar year with his seventh Race to Dubai title.
Lando Norris (Formula 1, 26)
Norris became the 11th Briton to win a Formula 1 drivers’ championship after emerging victorious from the closest finish to a season for 15 years. The McLaren driver was 34 points behind Oscar Piastri in the standings after 15 races, but a brilliant run of results, including back-to-back wins in Mexico and Brazil, propelled him into the lead. The season came down to a dramatic finale at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with Norris, Piastri and four-time defending champion Max Verstappen all capable of winning the title. Norris held his nerve to secure McLaren’s first drivers’ championship since 2008.
The SPOTY ceremony, filmed at MediaCity in Salford, airs on Thursday 18 December, from 7pm, and will again be hosted by an all-female team in the form of Gabby Logan, Clare Balding and Alex Scott, who will guide the nation through the highs of the sporting year.
And it may well be two women’s teams fighting it out for Team of the Year, which is being decided by a live public vote – just like the main award – for the first time in the show’s history.
Director of BBC Sport Alex Kay-Jelski said: “This year has been once again packed full of amazing sporting moments and stories. I’m glad it’s not me having to pick who to vote for!
The top three contenders for the BBC Young SPOTY 2025 award have already been unveiled live on BBC Radio 1 Breakfast with Greg James.
They are:
Michelle Agyemang (Football)
Luke Littler (Darts)
Davina Perrin (Cricket)
And voting is already underway for the World Sport Star of the Year award. Announced on December 9, the shortlisted athletes are: Mariona Caldentey (Football, Spain) Terence Crawford (Boxing, USA) Armand Duplantis (Athletics, Sweden) Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (Athletics, USA) Shohei Ohtani (Baseball, Japan) and Mohamed Salah (Football, Egypt).
Married At First Sight UK contestants Leigh and Davide have discussed behind-the-scenes secrets about phone use and restrictions
A star from Married At First Sight UK has opened up on a little-known secret about the show that might leave fans gobsmacked.
The tenth series of the popular E4 dating programme was full of drama and chaos, with a fresh batch of singletons hoping to meet their soulmate at the altar. For some, it was smooth sailing with immediate sparks flying, but for others, there were numerous hurdles to overcome.
This series had everything from shocking revelations to accusations of cheating. Despite several couples making it to the final vows and continuing their relationships outside the show, only one pair – Abi and John – are still together weeks after the series ended.
Post-show, a string of breakups were announced, including Rebecca and Bailey and Davide and Keye, as cast members continue to share their experiences from the show.
Now, one participant has unveiled a behind-the-scenes secret that could astonish some viewers, reports OK!
During an appearance on the Private Parts Podcast, a snippet of which was posted on Instagram, members Leigh and Davide were asked if they were allowed to use their personal mobile phones during filming. The answer, unsurprisingly, is no – they were given production phones.
But what fans might not know is that the production teams allegedly monitor their phones and don’t permit them to form groups of four outside of filming.
On the podcast, Leigh – who was paired with Leah on the programme, confessed it was “f***** chaos” behind the scenes when the cast went out for drinks, with Davide comparing it to “like being at uni again”.
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Davide, who was coupled with Keye on the series before they announced their separation, revealed: “We’re not supposed to be in more than groups of four, because they track your phones, the production phones they gave us, they track them.”
After confirming they weren’t permitted to use their personal mobiles, presenter Olivia questioned how participant Steven managed to access dating platform Hinge – following revelations he’d been active on the app.
Davide explained: “He got his phone back when he went home.”
Leigh chimed in: “This is the thing about this story right, I don’t think that this has ever been explained. So Nelly and Steven had got to a point where I think they both knew it wasn’t going to work.”
Taking to Instagram to respond, Steven posted: “We both had the conversation the day we came back together after partner swap about it being done. We were asked to leave it open so we could do the Dinner Party & Commitment ceremony & between partner swap and the last CC it was about 10 days wait… so we both knew it was done.”
Married At First Sight UK can be viewed on Channel 4
