FOR almost a decade, Stranger Things has had adults and kids alike cowering behind the sofa as a bunch of youngsters battle the evil Demogorgon and Vecna.
I’ve been scared out of my wits a few times but as the fifth and final series begins today, I have some very good news for fans of the hit sci-fi show.
Several spin-off projects are already in the works, I can reveal.
We will see more of the story unfold as inhabitants of the fictional US town of Hawkins, Indiana, venture into the mysterious alternate dimension The Upside Down.
Speaking at the London premiere, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos confirmed: “The world of Hawkins, Indiana and the Upside Down, it’s not over.”
There is already a stage show, Stranger Things: The First Shadow, which has had rave reviews on London’s West End.
And next year will see the launch of an animated series, Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, featuring a new cast and taking place in the period between the second and third series of the main show.
But talks are under way about a series of other opportunities, including chances to explore individual characters.
A source said: “Stranger Things has been one of the ultimate success stories for Netflix — loads of people got subscriptions just to watch that.
“They know there is a massive appetite for more, so although now is the right time to end the main series, it won’t be the end of the story.
“There have been talks of a live-action spin-off as well as another animated project.
“But there is also a hope that individual characters could return to the screen in stand-alone shows.”
One person unlikely to take up that offer is Millie Bobby Brown. She played key character Eleven, who has supernatural powers.
Millie made it clear she is excited to snap up opportunities away from the show after so many years working on it.
The last series in 2022 ended on a cliffhanger with Max Mayfield, played by Sadie Sink, left horrifically injured after being attacked by Vecna.
We find out what’s happened to her and after watching the first episode a few weeks ago, I can confirm it’s still just as terrifying.
The first four episodes of season five drop today, followed by more on Boxing Day and the grand finale on New Year’s Day.
But his character only has barely nine minutes of screen time in the episode which features a brilliant soundtrack including Diana Ross’s Upside Down, and ABBA’s Fernando during a particularly gruesome scene.
Watching bloody fights between monsters and mortals isn’t usually how I spend my Christmas, but this year, I’ll be glued to it.
Music fans at Stockholm airport couldn’t believe their eyes when the popstar they were travelling to see boarded the same flight to Helsinki, and she wasn’t even flying first class
Alice Sjoberg Social News Reporter
15:15, 26 Nov 2025
Passengers were baffled when they realised who was on the same flight as them (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
Music enthusiasts in Stockholm, Sweden, were left stunned whilst awaiting their flight to Finland after discovering a very special passenger was also waiting to board the same flight.
It’s hardly uncommon for music lovers to journey far and wide to catch their beloved bands and artists performing live. Whether it’s a trip to a neighbouring city, across the country, or to an entirely different country, no distance appears too far for devoted fans, who frequently use concerts as an opportunity to explore new destinations. What they certainly wouldn’t anticipate, though, is bumping into the very artist they’re travelling to see aboard their aircraft.
However this extraordinary scenario unfolded for a group of admirers who were preparing to board their flight from Stockholm, Sweden, travelling across the Baltic Sea to Helsinki in Finland to see Zara Larsson at her upcoming concert.
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Sharing on TikTok, one fan posted the clip which captured the incredible moment she was lingering by the departure gate at Arlanda airport in Sweden, only to glance up and spot the pop sensation approaching the very same gate, instantly drawing the focus of numerous fans present, all travelling to attend her performance the next evening.
“Pov you’re flying from Sweden to Finland to see Zara Larsson and Zara Larsson shows up,” the fan wrote in the video’s caption.
The brief footage showed Zara chatting casually with several supporters at the gate, including one fan who spun around in amazement upon hearing the superstar’s distinctive voice behind her.
The TikTok creator then posted some snaps with Zara, who looked stylish in a black fur coat and vibrant pink nails. She chose to travel makeup-free as she was en route to her Helsinki gig scheduled for 26 November.
The video quickly attracted comments from other fans and has been viewed over 478,000 times within the first day of being uploaded on the platform.
“Crazy how she just flies in economy,” one fan commented, while another exclaimed: “Imagine sitting next to Zara on a plane omggg.”
A third fan chimed in: “Personally i wouldve started dancing lush life to get my lush life girl moment.
“How does it feel… to live our dream?” another asked.
Zara Larsson is currently wrapping up the European leg of her Midnight Sun tour, which kicked off in Munich on 28 October, before hitting London on 5 November, followed by Dublin and Manchester. She will then take the tour to the USA and Canada in February 2026.
Freddy Brazier flashed a big smile on first outing after his split from his pregnant girlfriendCredit: BackGridThe 21-year-old father-to-be dumped his girlfriend Holly Swinburn over a row involving his dogCredit: Alamy
Freddy appeared to put his fresh heartbreak behind him as he enjoyed a night out at Claridges Christmas party on Tuesday.
The model was seen wearing a grey shirt and trousers co-ord, and with what appeared to be a mink scarf around his neck.
He looked in good spirits as he was snapped heading into the venue.
Freddy is reported to have dumped Holly before she “tried to take his dog from him” in a row, the Daily Mail has revealed.
Sources close to Holly told the Daily Mail that Freddy is struggling with the idea of co-parenting with Holly.
A source told the outlet: “The pair have been arguing a lot recently.
“Having a baby so young is a lot to deal with. Both are quite flighty characters.”
They added how Freddy had feared he was not the father, but has since done a paternity test which confirmed that he is.
The couple revealed they were expecting a child together just last month.
The pair looked loved-up as they posed together at The Pride of Britain Awards at London’s Grosvenor Hotel when she debuted her bump on the red carpet.
A HUGE new attraction is set for the UK with water, snow and dry land fun all in one place.
The £300million attraction, set to be in the Welsh Valleys, would feature a water park and the UK’s longest ski slope.
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A £300million attraction with a ski slope, waterpark and Adventure Park is set to open in WalesCredit: Rhydycar WestPlans were first announced for Rhydycar West back in 2017Credit: Rhydycar West
Known as the Rhydycar West Development, the new attraction will be located just off the A470 dual carriageway and 10 minutes from the Brecon Beacons National Park.
According to the Rhydycar West, it will be a world class leisure resort, open all year round.
Last week, the Welsh Government agreed not to call in the planning application following Merthyr Tydfil Council’s decision to back the planning application in March and as a result, have given the application the green light.
Now, the Local Planning Authority will move forward to grant planning permission.
At the site there will be a number of different features including a waterpark with a tropical theme, set to be one of the largest waterparks in the UK.
Inside the waterpark, guests will find artificial beaches, swimming and bathing areas for all ages and abilities, waterslides and a number of other water-based attractions.
Then the 39,200sqm indoor snow centre would take over Chill Factore in Manchester – which is 180 metres long – to house the longest ski slope in the UK, measuring over 400 metres long.
The centre will also match the standards of the International Ski Federation (FIS).
And it will use special equipment to ensure the slope can remain open all year.
The site will be the home and national training headquarters for the Welsh and UK national, Olympic and Paralympic teams as well.
Known as the Adventure Park, there will be a ‘mountain coaster’, clip ‘n’ climb, zip wires and other adrenaline-based activities and attractions.
Of course, the destination is also planning on creating accommodation.
When it comes to the 418-bedroom hotel, there would be three different wings.
The Resort Wing will feature conferencing and co-working spaces, whereas the Luxury Spa Wing will have leisure facilities such as a fully equipped spa.
Finally, in the Sport and Value Wing, visitors will find a more casual and relaxed feel.
But if you’re not a fan of hotels, there will be around 30 Woodland Lodges as well.
These will be in the heart of nature, located in the woodland, with value and premium options available.
Once it opens, the attraction is set to feature the UK’s longest ski slope measuring over 400 metresCredit: Rhydycar West
Plans for the attraction were first announced back in 2017 and once open, it hopes to create 842 jobs and contribute £38.1million to the local economy.
Details including when the attraction will open are still unclear.
Many people have taken to social media to show their excitement for the project.
One person said: “Awesome news. Most importantly, are you planning an ice climbing wall?”
Another said: “That is awesome news and another milestone reached for what will be an amazing asset to GB Skiers.”
A third person added: “This will be transformational for the town, our economy and as importantly help and change how Merthyr Tydfil is often unfairly talked about!”
Kelly Brook celebrated her 46th birthday on Sunday – but had seemingly forgotten about it until Jack Osbourne reminded her during a conversation on I’m A Celebrity
21:10, 23 Nov 2025Updated 21:10, 23 Nov 2025
Kelly Brook had forgotten it was her birthday(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
I’m A Celebrity star Kelly Brook was surprised to find out it was her birthday today after a date mix-up while in the Australian jungle.
The model turned 46 on Sunday but had seemingly forgotten about her special day. As celebrities gathered around the campfire for their morning meeting, Jack Osbourne was emotional as he said he had “a good cry” with Eddie Kadi when he realised Saturday marked four months since his legendary father, Ozzy Osbourne, passed away.
“Yesterday was a bit of a delicate day for me…I was doing okay, and then I realised it was the four months since my dad died,” Jack said. “Had a good cry with Eddie…but ultimately I’m happy, I’m really happy I’m here.” Campmates showed their support for Jack, as Angry Ginge told him: “Men cry too.”
The conversation then moved to a lighter topic – birthdays – as Kelly exclaimed: “Oh my god! It’s my birthday tomorrow.” However, after she revealed her birthday was on November 23, Jack was quick to point out: “It’s the 23rd today.”
The pair then went through the days together, which is when Kelly realised: “It’s my birthday.” Fellow celebrities then cheered and celebrated with her as Kelly joked: “I honestly thought it was tomorrow!
“Jack even had to figure out when my birthday was, is there nothing this guy can’t do?! How am I gonna navigate life without him!” It comes after Jack’s sister, Kelly Osbourne, accused his campmate, Kelly, of being a “bully” after she said he had pushed his way into taking over preparing the campmate’s dinner of eel.
On the ITV show earlier this week, Jack offered to help Kelly after seeing she was gagging and retching over the smell while preparing the meal.
But despite accepting, Kelly later told the camera she felt Jack had “elbowed” his way into taking over the cooking for camp. Jack’s elder sister then took to her Instagram Stories to say: “Kelly Brook… I don’t think I like you. Elbowing out of the way to get to the fish… you’re so performative, with all the gagging and the over‑dramatics. You bring out my big‑sister vibes where I want to attack you because I feel like you’re a bit of a bully.”
After Kelly’s stepdad described the accusations as “a load of rubbish”, her former housekeeper Gemma Daniels also spoke out in defence of the former model. Gemma, who worked at the star’s £1million Kent farmhouse – which she sold in 2023 – for nearly a decade, said I’m A Celeb is painting the star in a wrong way.
Speaking out on TikTok, Gemma, who described herself as “just a girl from a council estate”, said: “In the nine years that I’ve known Kelly Brook, I’ve never felt the need to stick up for her more than I do now.” She described Kelly as “a really lovely down-to-earth woman” who always treated her well.
I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! airs nightly at 9pm on ITV1, STV, ITVX & STV Player.
RAPPER Donald Glover has revealed he cancelled his tour because he suffered a stroke on stage.
The actor, 42, previously told how he needed to focus on his “physical health” when he scrapped the North American gigs in September 2024.
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Childish Gambino revealed on stage that he cancelled his tour last year due to having a strokeDonald Glover performs under the stage name Childish GambinoCredit: RedfernsLast year, he cancelled both his North American and UK gig dates during his The New World TourCredit: Getty – Contributor
Glover, who performs under the stage nameChildish Gambino, initially shared the unfortunate news he was cancelling to his 2.5 million followers on X.
After he then called off the UK tour leg for The New World Tour, he told fans he needed surgery – but did not reveal why.
Now he has told how he suffered a stroke – and how medics also found a hole in his heart.
He spoke out at the Camp Flog Gnaw Festival at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles last night, after performing a set.
He told the crowds: “I had a really bad pain in my head in Louisiana, and I did the show anyway.
“I couldn’t really see well, so when we went to Houston, I went to the hospital, and the doctor was like, ‘You had a stroke.
“And the first thing I thought was like, ‘Oh, here I am still copying Jamie Foxx’ [the actor who suffered a stroke in 2023].
“That’s really like the second thing. The first thing was like, ‘I’m letting everybody down.’”
He then added how more medical woe was to come and said: “I broke my foot, they found a hole in my heart.
“So I had this surgery, and then I had to have another surgery.
“They say everybody has two lives, and the second life starts when you realise you have one.
“You should be living your life how you want. If we have to do this again, it can only get better.”
HEALTH BATTLES
After canceling his UK tour in 2024, the star released a brief statement.
He said “After my show in New Orleans, I went to the hospital in Houston to make sure of an ailment that had become apparent.
“After being assessed, it became clear I would not perform that night, and after more tests, I could not perform the rest of the US tour in the time asked.
“As of now I have surgery scheduled and need time out to heal.”
He continued: “My path to recovery is something that I need to confront seriously.
“With that said, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of the North American tour and the UK and European dates.
“Tickets will be refunded at point of purchase.
“I want nothing more than to bring this show to the fans and perform.
“Until then, thanks for love, privacy and support.”
The New World Tour started on August 11 2024 in Oklahoma and wrapped up in New Orleans on September 7th.
Childish Gambino was due to perform in Lyon, France, on October 31st.
Followed by a number of other shows in Italy, Germany, Norway, Denmark and Belgium.
RETIREMENT
The New World Tour was the sixth and final scheduled tour by Childish Gambino.
Earlier this year the singer revealed his plans to retire.
“It really was just like, ‘Oh, it’s done,’” he told The New York Times in July 2024.
“It’s not fulfilling. And I just felt like I didn’t need to build in this way anymore.”
“I’m not 25 anymore, standing in front of a boulder like, ‘This has to move,’” Donald said.
“You give what you can, but there’s beauty everywhere in every moment. You don’t have to build it. You don’t have to search for it.”
The 42-year-old told how he had suffered a stroke on stage while doctors had also detected a hole in his heartCredit: GettyHe previously told how The New World Tour was his sixth and final tourCredit: Redferns
ONE destination in the Midlands known as the ‘City of Kings’ thanks to its links to the Crown.
It’s had connections to royalty throughout history, both fictional and in real-life – plus for visitors, it has some great attractions.
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Leicester has links to royalty throughout history – and it’s the resting place of King Richard IIICredit: AlamyThe Jewry Wall is one of the largest remaining Roman structures in BritainCredit: Alamy
The city of Leicester is the final resting place ofKing Richard IIIand the birthplace of the Shakespeare’s mythical King Leir.
Other attractions include the King Richard III Visitors Centre, and the King Power Stadium.
Another popular attraction is Jewry Wall Museum, which immerses visitors in the stories of Roman Leicester – and it reopened after renovations earlier this year.
It’s where you can see Jewry Wall which was once part of a public bathhouse and it’s one of the largest surviving Roman masonry structures in Britain.
Inside the museum are plenty of Roman artefacts from soldiers’ helmet pieces to brooches and rings.
Tickets for adults are £12.50, those for children between 5-15 are £6.25 – families can get group tickets for £32.
The city in the Midlands is known for many things – but one must-see is the National Space Centre.
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The museum is the number one attraction in Leicester followed by Tropical Birdland and the Retro Computer Museum.
The National Space Centre is not just top in Leicester, it’s the UK’s leading visitor attractions dedicated to space science and astronomy.
National Space Centre in Leicester is the top attraction on TripadvisorCredit: Osborne Hollis Ltd.You can see the space centre for miles thanks to its Rocket TowerCredit: Alamy
It has interactive exhibits throughout the year and the UK’s largest planetarium.
Heading into the city, you’ll be able to spot it thanks to Rocket Tower – which is 42 metres high.
It has Blue Streak and Thor Able rockets, as well as the Gagarin Experience, Apollo Lunar Lander and real Moon Rock.
For those who want even more, stay for Space Lates — exclusive evenings of talks, activities, and galleries.
Entry for adults starts from £20.95, tickets for children between 5-16 are £18.95.
This much-mocked UK city is set to be huge next year – according to National Geographic…
According toNational Geographic, one of ‘best places in the world to travel to in 2026’ isHull– all thanks to its lively bar scene, award-winning aquarium, and completion of a huge project costing millions.
National Geographic has named it as one of the best places in the entire world to visit next year, but it’s not always been so up and coming. For example in Hull took top spot in the book Crap Towns: The 50 Worst Places to Live in the UK back in 2003.
However, it’s set to become more popular in 2026, and National Geographic mentioned that one of the reasons why is Hull’s investment into conserving its rich maritime history.
Hull was a very important trade route during the 13th and 14th centuries. Thanks to this, you can see Dutch-influenced architecture buildings that line the streets of the quaint Old Town.
Since 2020, the Maritime Museum has been undergoing a huge revamp worth £11million, but it will finally reopen to the public next year. This has been part of a wider £27.5 million project to promote Hull’s maritime history which has gone into restoring the museum and ships.
Another reason is the city’s new leisure spots that have transformed warehouses and the old waterside Fruit Market to become bars, restaurants, and art galleries.
The publication added: “There’s also a spectacular performance amphitheater, called Stage@TheDok, overlooking River Hull where it meets the Humber Estuary.
“And a former shipyard has for over 20 years been the base for The Deep, one of the United Kingdom’s most highly respected aquariums and marine conservation centers.”
The Chancellor has previously promised that the new budget will “deliver on the priorities of the British people” by reducing NHS waiting lists, the national debt and the cost of living.
Although she has reportedly decided against raising income tax rates, there are rumours that she could announce an extended freeze on income tax and National Insurance thresholds, meaning more people would pay it as wages increase over time.
There might also be a new tax introduced on high-value homes, of which there are roughly 2.4 million in England. This could impact properties in council tax bands F, G and H, reports the Express.
Roger Johnson and Sarah Campbell were presenting BBC Breakfast today when the show took a brief pause.
“I’m not sure there’s ever a quiet week in politics these days but this week is particularly significant with the budget on Wednesday,” Sarah started.
She then handed over to Laura Kuenssberg who was ready in a separate studio to outline what was coming up on her Sunday morning politics show, momentarily interrupting BBC Breakfast’s schedule.
Speaking about the upcoming episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Laura stated: “It really is, we are now just a few days away from Rachel Reeves’ huge moment in the House of Commons.
“A massive moment for the country, a massive moment for the economy and a massive moment for this government that has had such a turbulent few months.”
She continued: “This morning we’ll be giving you everything you need to know in the final days before the big moment itself.”
BBC Breakfast is broadcast daily from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer.
There are heaps of fun theme parks and attractions in the UK to enjoy but there are a handful that would have been great yet unfortunately plans had to be abandoned
Plans for the London Resort never came to fruition(Image: Paramount London / SWNS)
The UK is full of amazing attractions, both old and new, from historic palaces to theme parks and world-class museums. But not every idea manages to get off the ground.
There were many large-scale projects that could have potentially become major tourist landmarks, which sadly, either failed due to cost or logistics. We’re talking theme parks that were said to have the potential to rival Disneyland, weird and wonderful pyramids, and giant bridges that cost millions but never actually opened.
We look at some of the incredible attractions that could have been gamechangers, but sadly didn’t manage to see the light of day (even if we’re still hoping!).
Check out our top picks below…
WonderWorld theme park
In the 1980s, a £346m plan to turn an old quarry into the ‘British Disneyland’ was hatched. The site of this ambitious project was Corby, Northants, where the abandoned quarry was connected to the town’s closed steelworks. The collapse of the steelworks had led to 10,000 job losses, and with a third of the town out of work, the theme park was cited as a way to get locals back into employment.
WonderWorld is said to have been inspired by Disney’s Epcot, and was set to have 13 themed villages, the first six of which would have opened in 1992. The idea was to showcase the best of British design, with David Bellamy set to help devise a mock safari, while Sir Patrick Moore would have helped design an observatory.
There would be a mix of the educational and fun, high-tech rides, themed restaurants, shops, and much more, which it would estimate would bring in four million visitors a year through the park gates.
The ambitious plans also included a 10,000 seat stadium for sporting events, and a Disney-style family resort with seven hotels, which would eventually offer 6,000 rooms and 100 holiday villas.
Sadly, all that was ever built of WonderWorld was a sign and a wooden cabin. Planning delays and rising costs were blamed, with backers soon pulling out. The site which would have been WonderWorld is now a new build estate, with nothing to indicate that it could have been the site of a major British attraction.
Garden Bridge
While a failed project can waste a lot of time, London’s Garden Bridge project also managed to waste a lot of money along the way. £53.5m was spent on a bridge which never broke ground, after many years trying to turn the idea into reality.
London’s Garden Bridge would have been a pedestrian bridge set between Waterloo Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge. The idea was it would be covered in shrubbery and flowers, creating a sort of park area you could wander round, rather than just crossing from A to B.
The project was such a disaster that Transport for London (TfL) launched an inquiry, which concluded that £43m of the sunk costs came from the public’s pocket. The failed project’s spends included £21.4m in construction costs and £1.7m in executive salaries, according to BBC reports.
The Garden Bridge Trust also spent £161,000 on a website and £417,000 on a gala for the failed proposal. Had it been built, the project was projected to cost £175m overall.
The idea for the bridge dates back to 1998, when actor Joanna Lumley had the idea for a “floating paradise” that would be built in honour of Princess Diana. But it wasn’t until 2012, when Boris Johnson was Mayor of London, that the unusual project was picked up.
While they managed to secure planning permission in 2014, the project had a number of vocal critics who complained that it would have had an impact on sight lines of St Paul’s Cathedral and Monument.
When Sadiq Khan took over as mayor, he ordered a review as to whether the bridge would offer good value for money for Londoners, before withdrawing his support the next year. The cancellation of the project was officially announced on August 14, 2017.
Trafalgar Square Pyramid
Trafalgar Square could have looked very different if one MP and soldier had seen their plans come to fruition. After beating the French at the Battle of the Nile, Sir Frederick William Trench decided that what London really needed was a giant pyramid right in the middle of Trafalgar Square to really celebrate their military success.
The proposal, submitted in 1812, shows a 300ft pyramid with 22 steps, one for each year of the two Anglo-French wars. At the time, the tallest structure in London would have been the Dome at St Paul’s Cathedral which was 365ft, meaning the pyramid would have completely changed the London skyline.
One idea to turn the plan into reality was to use the labour of men who’d recently been discharged from the armed forces, giving them employment once the war was over. However, the only thing that was ever built was a scale model, which ended up in the home of the Duke of York. A few years later, the land was cleared and the version of Trafalgar Square that brings in millions of visitors a year was created. But there’s no doubt the giant pyramid would have brought in the tourists too.
London Paramount Entertainment Resort
A more recent attempt to build a giant theme park in the UK was the London Resort, which was announced in 2012. Its location in Swanscombe, Kent led to some dubbing it the ‘Dartford Disneyland’, and it was set to include Europe’s largest indoor water park, theatres, live music venues, attractions, cinemas, restaurants, event spaces and hotels.
The park would have had several worlds including a Spaceport, The Isles, The Kingdom, and High Street, all themed around the UK. Another planned attraction was a triple launched roller coaster that would reach speeds of 70mph.
The park’s troubles continued during the planning process, when Natural England decided to designate a large portion of the planned park area as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
In 2022, it was reported that plans for the park were scaled back, and would be resubmitted the next year. Its company, London Resort Company Holdings (LRCH), then went into administration and faced a lawsuit from Paramount. Finally, in January 2025, it was reported that the High Court had ordered the company to be wound up, effectively killing off the dream of the £2.5b London Resort.
AFTER their split in 2010 and cancelled reunion tour in 2020, I can reveal that The Pussycat Dolls are talking about getting back together.
I’ve heard that Kimberly Wyatt has been telling pals the girls have ironed out their issues and are reforming.
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Kimberly Wyatt has been telling pals The Pussycat Dolls have ironed out their issues and are reformingCredit: GettySingers from left: Jessica Sutta, Kimberly Wyatt, Nicole Scherzinger, Melody Thornton and Ashley Roberts onstage during Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve 2009Credit: GettyA source said: ‘Kimberly has been open about the fact the girls have sorted out their issues’Credit: Getty
Let’s hope nothing comes in the way of this reunion.
The Dolls started off as a burlesque troupe but in 2003 Nicole Scherzinger, Melody Thornton and Kaya Jones joined Carmit Bachar, Ashley Roberts, Jessica Sutta and Kimberly Wyatt to form the group.
Kaya went solo in 2004 and Carmit left in 2008.
They split for good in 2010 but got back together in 2020.
THIS former Disney Channel star had her first taste of stardom back in 2016 appearing in hit teen drama Backstage.
But it was her dazzling vocal talent that really piqued people’s attention with her most popular hit, the viral Princesses Don’t Cry, going on to rack up over 250 million streams.
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The child star shared a TikTok talking about her days of stardomCredit: TiktokThough she now lives at home with her parents, she’s incredibly grateful and “wouldn’t have it any other way”Credit: TiktokShe played Alya Kendrick in Disney’s Backstage as a teenCredit: YouTube/Disney
But despite her notable accolades, child star Aviva Chiara Mongillo, who released music under the name ‘CARYS’, is now back living at her parent’s house.
The now 27-year-old, who played Alya Kendrick in Backstage, shared a candid moment about her current living situation with fans online.
Aviva took to TikTok to share a meme about the complete U-turn her life seems to have taken, while simultaneously expressing gratitude for the way her life is today.
“When you were on Disney channel, signed to a major label and had a viral song before the age of 20 and now you’re 27 living with your parents,” the actress-turned-musician quipped, smiling at the camera in a red jumper.
She quipped: “To be honest, I don’t know what happened but we need a re-do”.
There didn’t seem to be any real ill feeling towards her current lifestyle though, as Aviva thoughtfully captioned the post to say she “wouldn’t change a thing”.
“for real though… I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m grateful that this is my life.”
The post has currently been liked around 90,000 times, with fans flooding the comments section with praises.
“Aviva Mongillo you will always be famous to me,” gushed one user in a comment Aviva has hearted.
“Backstage is one of my favourite disney shows ever!!!,” exclaimed another.
Though one of the most common comments was people shocked to learn that Aviva was the voice behind Princesses Don’t Cry, as she wasn’t recognisable.
“YOU’RE THE ONE WHO MADE PRINCESSES DONT CRY???,” said one of the post’s top comments with over 4,200 “likes”.
The star simply responded with “YOU BETCHA”.
Princesses Don’t Cry came out in 2019 and immediately gained popularity through TikTok and other social media platforms.
Aviva had a hit song in 2019-2020 that went viral on TikTokCredit: Wikipedia
Sung under the artist name CARYS, the song subverts traditional fairy tales by asserting that princesses are strong and independent, not “crying over boys with pretty eyes”.
Meanwhile, Aviva’s stint on Backstage saw her star in sixty episodes where she frequently sung and played guitar.
Initially, Aviva was discovered by a music producer who was looking to craft music to feature on Backstage.
But later on she was encouraged to audition for a role instead, eventually landing the part of Alya Kendrick.
Aviva ultimately left backstage in season two to go on tour with the cast of La Boheme.
After her Disney days, Aviva went on to star in comedy-drama Workin’ Moms as the recurring character Juniper.
Aviva had blonde looks when she starred in hit Disney show BackstageCredit: DisneyAviva Mongillo was a Disney star fan-favouriteCredit: AlamyShe’s written other popular songs too, including No More, Bad Boy, and When A GirlCredit: Instagram
Saturday Kitchen host Matt Tebbutt apologised after accidentally revealing personal details about his guest star on the BBC show
Samantha King Content Editor
11:43, 22 Nov 2025
Matt Tebbutt issued a swift apology after the blunder(Image: BBC)
Matt Tebbutt dropped a huge blunder just minutes into today’s Saturday Kitchen (November 22), accidentally revealing where one of his celebrity guests lives.
The TV chef was joined by comedian and actor Tom Allen, famous for his roles on The Apprentice: You’re Fired, Cooking with the Stars and The Great British Bake Off’s Extra Slice.
He popped up on the ITV show to promote his gardening podcast, Pottering With Tom Allen, telling presenter Matt: “I just thought what the world needs is another podcast.”
He went on: “We keep the bird song in, we keep the church bells in, even aeroplanes going over we leave in.”
Matt then chimed in with a cheeky comment about the background noise, which accidentally gave away where the star calls home, reports the Express.
“Please Matt! Don’t tell people where I live,” Tom shot back, before quipping: “It’s true though it’s a very desirable area,” as giggles filled the studio.
The gaffe sparked a hasty “I’m sorry” from presenter Matt, who quickly added: “I didn’t give out the full address.”
Tom then revealed that his neighbourhood was quite compact, meaning even tiny hints were too much information.
“Well it’s not a very big place so if you are in Chislehurst you’ll see me there,” he revealed before throwing a tongue-in-cheek “So thanks for that” Matt’s way.
As the programme progressed, Matt turned to chef Ravinder Bhogal to ask what was next on the agenda. Yet, he couldn’t help but make another quip about his earlier gaffe.
“Right let’s see what else is on the menu today. Ravinder! Tell everyone where you live,” he jested, sparking more laughter from the cast and crew.
Saturday Kitchen is broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer
UNDISTURBED views of hazy mountains are all around.
My focus, however, is on the plate in front of me, piled high with cheeses including sulguni, a sour and briney variety famous in this part of the world.
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Now is an ideal time to visit the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, with temperatures are in the low twentiesCredit: GettyGeorgians take great pride in their cuisine, and visitors should try delicacy Khachapuri, pastry with cheese and eggCredit: Getty
I take a glug of red wine and notice everyone at my table, like me, has been rendered speechless by the sumptuous spread.
You may think I’m in the South of France or Italy — but no, I’m in Georgian capital Tbilisi, and the place is stunning.
In April this year easyJet launched a direct route to this former Soviet republic from Luton — and with the city’s magnificent wine scene and travel prices that won’t break the bank, it’s not hard to see why it is soaring in popularity.
Now is an ideal time to visit, when temperatures are in the low twenties — perfect for exploring and, more importantly, eating until you’re fit to burst.
Georgians take great pride in their culinary excellence and there are several dishes which simply have to be tried while you’re here.
Khachapuri, a national delicacy, is top of my list and can be picked up from most cafes and restaurants in the city.
Made of gooey cheese melted into a thick, hollowed-out, loaf-like bread, and often served with runny-yolked egg, this traditional staple is as heavy as it is tasty.
Luckily, virtually every meal in Tbilisi comes with a Georgian salad, consisting of tomatoes and cucumbers, so don’t worry about getting towards your five-a-day.
It’s amazing how much flavour the city’s chefs can add to the simplest of ingredients — and beans are no exception.
I tried them in a dish loved by locals, lobiani. Mashed kidney beans are cooked in onions and spices and stuffed into a flatbread.
Sofiko restaurant does an excellent version and what’s better is that its dishes are served alongside mesmerising city views.
When you are able to eat no more, Tbilisi’s cobbled streets are ideal for walking off all the food.
The city’s architecture reflects a fascinating blend of Persian, Arabic and Soviet styles, due to its occupations by all of these empires over the years.
Just make sure you pack comfy shoes. I’d booked a tour with a local guide, Nik, who told me: “Georgia would be the biggest country in the world . . . if it was flat”.
Gergeti Trinity Church sits on one of the country’s many spectacular green hillsCredit: GettyThe imperious Mother of Georgia statue was built in 1958 to mark the city’s 1,500th anniversaryCredit:
Bearing this in mind, I opted for the cable car up to the Narikala Fortress —an ancient stronghold built by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali in the fourth century, which looks over Tbilisi.
Up there you can see the imperious Mother of Georgia statue, a 20-metre figure built in 1958 to mark the city’s 1,500th anniversary.
In one hand she carries a sword — and in the other wine, to reflect the area’s fine vineyards.
Some of the world’s most celebrated grapes are grown in Georgia’s Kakheti region and no restaurant or bar is short of a good local white or red.
Kiketi Farm, a natural wine cellar around 45 minutes from Tbilisi, is the place to head if you want to sample some of the best tipples.
For such quality, I expect a steep bill for my tasting session. But the 30 lari I am charged works out at a very affordable £8.50.
Don’t guzzle too much, though, as you’ll also want to take advantage of everything else on offer at the farm — which includes horse riding. Staff are so friendly that they even attempted to give me a culinary masterclass.
It’s safe to say that despite their efforts to teach me how to make khinkali — a type of dumpling crammed with meat or veg — I reckon this job is best left to the local chefs.
If you’re after even more rural delights, an hour or so from Tbilisi is the Kass Land attraction park and its spectacular Diamond Bridge.
Bestriding the Dashbashi canyon 300 metres below, this transparent glass walkway is no more than two metres wide but 240 metres long — and features a colossal diamond- shaped structure at its centre, housing an all-glass sky bar with panoramic views.
Some find the experience rather daunting but I found it truly spectacular — especially when you can sip wine while drinking in the knockout views.
GO: Tbilisi
GETTING THERE: EasyJet flies from Luton to Tbilisi twice weekly from £137 return. See easyjet.com.
STAYING THERE: Rooms at the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metekhi Palace cost from £150 per night including breakfast.
The resort in Turkey’s Antalya region covers 639,000 square meters and includes a royal-themed hotel with 401 rooms, a theme park right on your doorstep, and even an impressive shopping mall
Staying at Land of Legends gives you access to endless family fun(Image: INTERNET)
All-inclusive hotels can be a convenient way to enjoy a family holiday. You don’t need to bring any spending money along, and there’s no need to cook or wash a single plate for the entire stay.
But one drawback can be a lack of things to do. Not everyone enjoys spending every day by the pool or beach, and there’s only so many games you can play with the animation team. But there’s one giant resort in Turkey where you’re almost guaranteed not to run out of activities, as you’ve got a theme park just steps away from your sun lounger.
Land of Legends is located near the city of Antalya, one of the most popular Turkish destinations for British tourists. It’s just minutes away from beautiful sandy beaches and the lively town of Kadriye. It’s possible to get a day pass for Land of Legends, but it’s best explored when staying in the hotel, as there’s just so much to see.
Theme hotel
The Kingdom Hotel has 401 rooms, which have been perfectly designed for family stays. Rooms and suites come with fun features such as TVs with 3D glasses, a PlayStation 4, and a minibar full of soft drinks, which is refilled daily. Each room also features fun, cartoon-style decor and has been designed with thoughtful details, such as rounded edges on the furniture, making it safe for little kids.
You can choose from one-bedroom rooms, interconnected rooms to give you more space and privacy, and a range of different suites. Many rooms also include either a balcony or a terrace where you can soak up some sunshine. There’s even a drying rack for your swimwear when you’re back from the waterpark.
Waterpark and theme park
You’ll likely spend a lot of time in the water if you stay at the Kingdom Hotel. You’ll have access to a range of pools, from the lively to quieter spots. At the activity pool, there’s plenty of space for the kids to splash around, while the infinity pool has warm seawater for a refreshing dip.
Guests have access to Aqua Land, which features a wave pool, rapids, a wild river, and the gigantic Magicone waterslide. Up to four people can ride the Magicone, which leads you through a giant funnel before you drop down below. These rides are open until 7pm in summer, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy them. There’s also the Anjana spa and fitness centre – complete with a sauna, steam room, Turkish bath and whirlpool – so you can relax after a long day at the park.
Of course, if you’re visiting a theme park, you’ll want to know about the rides, especially the rollercoasters. The Hyper Coaster is one of the park’s main attractions, hitting heights of 61 metres and speeds over 70mph. There’s also the Typhoon Coaster, which ends in a drop of 43-metres, straight into the water, so you’ll need to dry off afterwards.
There are also gentler rides, such as the Family Coaster. For little kids, Masha and the Bear: Land of Laughter features rides like the Zippy Zappy Coaster, which even the smallest guests can enjoy. There’s also Bear’s Fun House and kids’ shows in the circus tent.
Food and drink
Depending on who you book with, Land of Legends offers all-in or all-inclusive packages, so make sure you double-check before you confirm your booking. The former includes food, snacks, and soft drinks, but may only cover select local alcoholic drinks, and may be limited to alcohol at meal times. Not all restaurants in the park are included in these packages, so it’s worth checking.
Some popular spots for dining in the park include the Eternia restaurant, a huge buffet with dishes from around the world, and the Nyssa Bar, which is perfect for families with kids, as it has giant screens where they can play Xbox. There are also some 24-hour spots open, such as the Legends Pub.
Shopping Avenue
You won’t even need to leave the resort to buy souvenirs or pick up the essentials. Land of Legends’ Shopping Avenue features over 60 stores, including numerous clothing shops, pharmacies, fast food outlets, cafes, and toy stores. This stylish shopping area also has huge fountains, with colourful fountain shows in the evening, and Venetian-style canals, with regular boat parades. During the summer, many stores open from 10am to midnight, so you can shop at night when it’s cooler.
Gogglebox returned once again on Friday night on Channel 4
Gogglebox stars Dave and Shirley Griffiths shared some huge news just minutes into Friday’s episode(Image: Channel 4)
Gogglebox stars Dave and Shirley Griffiths shared some huge news just minutes into Friday’s episode.
As the episode started, Dave was seen surprising Shirley by letting off a loud confetti cannon, leaving his wife shocked.
Shirley said: “What have you got there?” before adding after the confetti cannon went off: “You stupid cow! You d**k!”
This prompted a beaming Dave to declare: “Happy anniversary!” before kissing his wife. He continued: “We’ve got to celebrate, haven’t we, 50 years!”
To which a giggling Shirley pointed out: “I was going to say, you’ve covered the b****y dogs!” as their pet dogs were seen covered in the confetti.
It comes as the duo also celebrated the milestone on Instagram as they shared a throwback snap on their joint account, writing: “50years on November 15th I wed the lovely Shirley, Happy anniversary darling here’s to making more happy memories.”
Gogglebox also celebrated the anniversary as they posted on their own Instagram: “How it started… how it’s going” with yellow heart emojis.
The couple’s fans and Gogglebox viewers were quick to react to the lovely news and incredible milestone.
“Happy golden wedding anniversary you lovely pair,” commented Ellie Warner, whilst her sister Izzi contributed: “Congratulations both! Wishing you many more years of wedded bliss.”
Simon Minty wrote: “Hid your names and asked Jane to guess. Took a couple of clues and then she cried, ‘Jeepers!’ She guessed you first Shirl and I guessed you first Dave. A very happy anniversary to you both.”
Ex-Gogglebox star Mica Ven added: “Happy anniversary you beauties,” whilst Jenny Newby and Lee Riley joked: “Awhhhhhh Happy Anniversary to you lovely pair but who gets the medal.”
Meanwhile, one fan commented: “Happy anniversary to you both, may you share many more in the years to come,” whilst another viewer added: “Gorgeous!! Happy Anniversary to a beautiful couple.”
The Welsh couple, who first appeared on the Channel 4 programme back in 2015, have quickly secured themselves as fan favourites.
Gogglebox airs on Friday nights at 9pm on Channel 4.
A MAJOR train company has unveiled its plans for a new station, taking passengers from one world-famous city to another.
It comes as the rail company decided a far bigger station would be needed, with more than 80 alterations being made to the original idea so far.
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The Oxford-Cambridge train line is currently in its planning phaseCredit: AlamyIt’s set to take passengers through Bedfordshire, replacing some of the county’s old train linesCredit: Alamy
East West Rail’s Oxford-Cambridge route is set to take passengers from one popular city to another, with stops in places including Bedford, Milton Keynes, and Winslow in between.
The nearly £7bn scheme is aiming to construct fresh stations, new entrances and a completely reworked service pattern.
It’s no small overhaul – it’s an incredible challenge to all involved, both strategically as well as in terms of design.
In preparation for the new train line, Cambridge will be getting a revamp, with a brand-new Cambridge East station near the city airport.
The stunning city already has two prominent stations – Cambridge North and Cambridge Central located in the CB1 area.
The central station will also be receiving a long-awaited eastern entrance to ease foot traffic during rush hour.
All of these plans for Cambridge have been written into the scope of the plan, though elements of it are dependent on whether external funding is received.
Whereas in Oxford one of its old running lines – the Cowley Branch Line – will be reinstated to better suit the travel timetable once Oxford-Cambridge becomes available for travellers.
According to a press release by East West Rail, “millions of people across the Oxford to Cambridge corridor are set to benefit” from the project.
David Hughes, CEO of EWR, said: “These updates reflect our commitment to listening to communities while designing a railway that delivers long-term benefits for the region.
“Our latest proposals better reflect what matters most to people and will deliver better outcomes for passengers, local communities and the environment.”
Though one of the biggest challenges the construction team are going to be facing during construction is rethinking what to do with the Marston Vale Line that transverses central Bedfordshire.
The current plan is to switch out the nine existing rather tired-looking stations on its line for four larger contemporary ones.
Peter Andre has teased a new TV project with wife EmilyCredit: RexIt comes as is it was revealed that Peter won’t be part of the second series of The Princess DiariesCredit: ITVPrincess’ show caused a huge fall out between her dad Peter and mum Katie PriceCredit: Splash
Peter, 52, has now teased that Emily, 36, and him have got a new TV project in the works.
The couple, who have been married since 2015, are well known faces on TV, and now it looks like they are set to get a new show.
Teasing this, Peter wrote in his Planet Peter column for this week’s New magazine: “Although I have some major solo projects launching in 2026, Emily and I are having exciting meetings about working together.
“We’ve got something very special lined up and we’ll let you know more soon.
“There’s no reason why both parents just can’t be there to support her. Now this isn’t about me. I have to clarify this,” Katie said in August.
“I don’t care that I’m not in Princess’ show.
“I don’t need to raise my profile by being on Princess’s show, I do enough stuff.
Emily, Junior and Peter all featured in the first series of Princess’ reality show The Princess DiariesCredit: Alamy
“All what I want to do, is just whatever my daughter does, and it’s the same with Junior, I don’t care if I’m in the background, but I want to watch her do her photo shoots, I wanna watch her do her signings, because that’s what I did.
“And my mom and you and Nan used to come along and support, and I’m proud of her.
“And I just wanna be there with her because I now I feel that I’ve missed out on so much.”
Taking to Instagram, Peter spoke out just hours after Katie said she had made contact with him after their fallout over daughter Princess amid her show.
In the statement shared on his social media page, Peter penned: “For sixteen years I have stayed silent in the face of repeated lies from my ex-wife and her family, out of respect for my children and loved ones.
“But staying silent has been incredibly frustrating. That ends today.”
He continued: “The latest comments about my children’s welfare and living arrangements compel me to set the record straight.
“For well-documented reasons, and for their safety, Junior and Princess came into my care in 2018 and remained with me until they reached adulthood.
The family-friendly holiday park operator will be offering accommodation at two new Spanish parks, which both feature direct beach access, pools, and plenty to keep the kids entertained
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The pool at Alannia Els Prats – both new Eurocamps have excellent pool facilities(Image: Eurocamp)
If you’re already dreaming of soaking up the sunshine in 2026 on a summer holiday, Eurocamp is adding two new parks in a sunny Spanish hotspot that are perfect for families.
Alannia Els Prats and Alannia Costa Dorada are both set on long stretches of sandy beach on the sunny Costa Dorada region of Spain, which roughly translates to ‘Golden Coast’. About 90 minutes south of Barcelona, these parks both have direct beach access and a whole host of activities to enjoy, so you can choose whether you want to fit in lots of fun adventures or simply relax on the beach.
Both parks are located conveniently close to Reus Airport, which is served by budget airlines including easyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair, with plenty of flights from across the UK in the summer months, so you can often pick up a cheap flight.
Alannia Els Prats offers a pool complex with a lagoon-style pool, waterslides and a splash zone for little ones. There’s also a free kids club for children aged 4-12, with plenty of activities to keep them entertained. Families can enjoy a game of padel, tennis, or mini-golf, while adults can relax in the spa with a jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room.
You’re also just a 15-minute drive from PortAventura World, Spain’s largest theme park, which includes Ferrariland, Caribe Aquatic Park and much more. Or from nearby Tarragona, you can take a train to Barcelona for a day trip, which takes about an hour and 15 minutes.
Prices for a week’s stay can be from £531 for a party of up to four guests in May half term, or from £1405.95 for the summer holidays.
Meanwhile Alannia Costa Dorada has three pools, including a jacuzzi and a splash zone for little kids. Its spa area includes a fitness centre and jacuzzi, and there’s a soft play area, badminton, mini golf and more. The park’s kids club is free for 5-12 year olds, and is a great way to keep them entertained while you relax.
Prices for a week’s stay start from £416.36 per party of up to six guests in May half term, or from £1261.12 for the summer holidays.
As with most Eurocamp resorts, you’ll find restaurants and bars at both camps, with family-friendly dining options. Alannia Els Prats has a snack bar with sea views, so you can enjoy a beer as you watch the sun go down.
But the fun doesn’t stop at night, both parks also offer evening entertainment suitable for all ages. This can include live music, themed shows, and of course, the ever-popular minidiscos where kids can make new friends.
Accommodation is in two or three bedroom holiday homes, meaning you aren’t stuck sharing a hotel room with the kids. Depending on the accommodation you choose, there are often facilities such as air conditioning, private decking areas, and BBQs, so you can make it a home away from home. Many camps also offer free hire on baby essentials such as cots, high chairs, and bed rails, making it easier to pack light.
Theme parks may seem like a modern invention. but there is a surprisingly long history behind the attractions. The first theme park in the UK is over 180 years old and still delighting visitors
Blackgang Chine has offered families fun days out since Victorian times(Image: Daily Mirror)
From thrilling rollercoasters to interactive games, theme parks are always inventing new and more exciting ways to keep people entertained. But the concept of a theme park, or amusement park, actually dates back as far as the Middle Ages, when travelling fairs would bring markets and live entertainment to towns and villages.
In Victorian times, pleasure gardens kept people entertained, with music and theatre, social events, street entertainment, and al fresco dining. At the same time, Victorians were also growing more interested in improving their health. They’d often escape the grimy city streets to enjoy seaside resorts, believing the fresh air and sea water were good for curing any ailments. The Isle of Wight became a particularly desirable destination among well-heeled Victorians, and this gave a local businessman an idea for a new venture.
Blackgang Chine was originally conceived as a kind of pleasure garden by founder Alexander Dabell, opening its doors in 1843. Since then, the park has remarkably not only stayed open, but also stayed within the family, with Alexander’s descendants still running Blackgang Chine to this day.
The site was initially a general purpose park with some curiosities to amuse Victorian guests, such as a large whale skeleton, which is still on display today. Rumours and legends about smugglers around the island gave the park its theme, and one of its most iconic sights is the giant fibreglass smuggler at the entrance. There are also lots of local stories about the ghosts of smugglers haunting the park at night.
After going through many changes throughout the years, the park has 40-acres of gardens with several themed lands to explore. There are thrill rides such as Extinction, which make the most of the park’s clifftop position to offer an adrenaline fuelled experience. This swing rotates 360-degrees and hangs off the edge of a cliff, with nothing but the sea beneath your feet. There’s also Evolution, a tower drop ride which gives riders amazing views of the Jurassic Coast before plummeting 400 metres in seconds.
There are many pirate and smuggler-themed rides including the Jolly Robin, a pirate ship ride, and the spinning Shipwrecked. The park is also home to Waterforce, the Isle of Wight’s biggest waterslide, and the Crooked House, which is fun for all ages to explore.
There’s also fun stuff for younger kids such as The Blackgang Beach, a giant water pillow you can walk and bounce across, and the classic twirling Pirate Barrels, which both adults and children will love.
Blackgang Chine has many fans, having delighted visitors for decades, and among them is a celebrity. In 2010, former child star Rupert Grint, known for his role in the Harry Potter films, expressed his love for the Isle of Wight and said his favourite attraction was Blackgang Chine.
Find out more about Blackgang Chine on its official website. The park opens from late March to early November with 2026 dates to be confirmed.
The rapper and content creator have quickly become fan favourites, and despite taking home huge fees, their pay is still modest compared to some stars who have previously appeared on the show
09:01, 18 Nov 2025Updated 09:06, 18 Nov 2025
Aitch is the highest paid celeb this year… but it’s nothing compared to some previous stars(Image: James Gourley/ITV/Shutterstock)
I’m A Celeb fan favourites Aitch and Angry Ginge are taking home huge paychecks for their stints in the jungle, but compared to some bigger names that have previously been on the show, it looks like pennies.
The two joined the hit ITV show on Sunday (16 November) and within 48 hours, they had stolen the show with some fans saying they were “way too funny”. Ahead of the series starting, the rumoured salaries of this year’s cast were revealed, and Aitch was the highest paid celeb, banking £250,000, with Angry Ginge will pocket just £100,000 this year.
While these numbers are huge, it is far from the most ITV are thought to have shelled out to get a big star in the I’m A Celeb camp. Some figures have been estimated to be over £1 million, making Aitch and Angry Ginge’s fees look tiny. Here are the reportedly highest paid celebs and their fees…
Coleen is thought to be one of the highest paid celebs in the show’s history, having banked a rumoured £1.5 million. She appeared on I’m A Celeb in 2024, and she reached the final, ultimately coming second to McFly’s Danny Jones.
Her enormous fee was thought to be the result of having made so many headlines two years prior, when she claimed fellow WAG Rebekah Vardy had leaked posts from Coleen’s private Instagram account to the press, a move for which she was later dubbed ‘Wagatha Christie’. Rebekah sued Coleen for libel, but the case was dismissed by the courts.
Nigel Farage
The Reform politician also allegedly took home £1.5 million for his I’m A Celeb stint. In 2023, he came third, behind Sam Thompson and Tony Bellew.
Nigel’s time on the show was controversial, as he wasn’t shy about sharing his political beliefs with his campmates, causing arguments with some, particularly Fred Sirieix and Nella Rose.
When he was first introduced, he said: “I’m known for politics, for Brexit, and I’m a hero to some people and an absolute villain to millions. In the jungle you’re going to find the real me. You might like me more, you might dislike me more, but you will at least find out.”
Noel Edmonds
The Deal or No Deal star was the programme’s highest paid participant for five years, having entered the Jungle in 2018 with a fee of £600k. As he was only in the show for nine days, that meant he earned over £66k a day.
After leaving, Noel expressed his disappointment in not being on the show for longer. “I was hoping to hang around for a little bit longer,” he said. “I hadn’t even actually got into my stride.”
Boy George
Boy George, who joined the show in 2022, was said to be pocketing £800k initially, but that figure dropped to £500k. He addressed his pay, pledging to be worth every penny the ITV producers spent on him. He said: “I feel like I’ve been paid well for it so I’m going to be as Boy George as I can.”
Harry Redknapp
Eventual winner Harry Redknapp was also reportedly paid £500k for his time on the show. At the time, it was rumoured that the BBC were courting him for Strictly Come Dancing, and Harry later revealed that the I’m A Celeb fee was double that which was offered by the BBC. He said: “What happened was I’m a Celebrity came and offered me twice as much money so I went there instead!”
Caitlyn Jenner
The year after Harry went on the show, former Olympian Caitlyn Jenner also took away £500k for her time on the show. This huge fee was even addressed on the show, with Dec saying: “We’ve got reality TV royalty Caitlyn Jenner. Most people come into the jungle to lose a few pounds…” Ant then playfully added: “But she’s going to be gaining 500,000 of them according to the papers.”
