live

Xavier Becerra has made a campaign out of saying nothing. Steve Hilton will seemingly say anything to anyone as long as there’s a microphone.

Neither dynamic is promising for voters tuning into Wednesday night’s televised debate on CNN with the two candidates vying to replace Gavin Newsom as California’s new governor.

But don’t worry, Golden State voters — Times columnists Gustavo Arellano, Mark Z. Barabak and Anita Chabria are watching every minute, every second, really, to bring you the zingers, gaffes and hopefully maybe even some insights.

*

Chabria: Let me start things off by saying my hope is that Hilton will push Becerra into specifics around issues including affordability, what we’re going to do about the coming Medicaid cliff, housing and education. California has been focused on raising up our most vulnerable and struggling residents for years — which is important.

But the middle class is suffering now, too, in all those areas. Hilton is right that the status quo isn’t working. That’s going to be a challenge for Becerra when he gets into office (and honestly, he could vacation in Hawaii until November and still get elected), so I’ll be looking for answers on how he plans to lift all boats.

Barabak: There will be much critiquing to come, so let me start by paying both gentleman a compliment.

Hilton has been campaigning hard, as though he has more than the merest speck of a chance of pulling an epic upset and somehow prevailing. Good for him!

And Becerra, who’s made himself exceedingly scarce, is stepping up and debating, as he should. And he’s not being cute about it, insisting on, say, a midnight appearance on local cable TV in Alturas. So props for that.

Arellano: I’m hoping that Becerra will once again channel his inner cholo, as I urged him to during the primary.

The Tío Xavier persona that Becerra supporters have trotted out — a kind, chuckling sage — isn’t what California needs right now. Becerra knows that the most loved uncles in Latino households aren’t the safe, boring ones but the ones who risked it all: the ones who came into this country without papers, who pulled themselves up by their bootstraps so that their kids could drive hybrids, and who proudly warble “El Rey” during the mariachi portion of the latest family wedding instead of sit quietly at the table.

We need the loco uncle, Xavier, not the fresa — uppity — one.

And I’m hoping Hilton will rebuke Donald Trump. I know, I know: there’s a better chance of England winning the FIFA World Cup than that ever happening.

But if there’s an iota of hope for the British expat to beat Becerra, it can only happen by him showing Californians that he’s willing to stand up to the loathed president instead of cozying up to him.

Otherwise, as a famous Brit once sang backed by sinuous xylophones, “Baby, baby, baby, you’re out of time.”

Trump repeats the claim that the US has “virtually total control” over the Strait of Hormuz during an event marking Hispanic Heritage Month.

US President Donald Trump reiterates that Tehran will not have a nuclear weapon.

Iran’s foreign minister says his visit to the UN General Assembly last week was mainly to outline Tehran’s position on regional conflicts and the critical security situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Named among the world’s five coolest neighbourhoods, it packs cafés, international food and welcoming pubs into a small pocket of a major city.

A £4.60 oat milk mocha might not be everyone’s idea of a bargain. But at Zennor in Govanhill, I’d argue it’s worth every penny – and the surrounding streets offer plenty of reasons to stay after the last sip.

The neighbourhood on Glasgow’s south side earned a place among the world’s five coolest neighbourhoods in Time Out’s annual list. Its appeal goes well beyond fashionable coffee shops, with a diverse mix of people, cultures and businesses shaping the area.

From Turkish börek to Pakistani street food, independent cafés to a pub named after a footballing legend, there’s plenty to explore. Some may say it’s all new coffee shops and no substance, but they couldn’t be more wrong.

A neighbourhood best explored on foot

Victoria Road is a natural starting point. Busy with dog walkers, friends catching up and people carrying takeaway coffees, it leads towards the green space of Queen’s Park.

Govanhill is one of Scotland’s most diverse neighbourhoods, reflected in its cafés, bakeries, takeaways and gift shops. You could easily spend hours browsing and stopping for something to eat.

Options include a flat white from a Transylvanian coffee shop or traditional Turkish börek from Pistachio. For me though, Zennor was the destination of choice.

On the corner of Langside Road and Dixon Avenue, Zennor’s second Glasgow location combines Scandi-inspired light wood and stainless steel décor with paper lanterns and the smell of freshly ground coffee.

Zennor’s seasonal specials are really where they excel, but I didn’t spot anything on there that caught my eye on this occasion, so I opted for a mocha. And you can’t pop in here without grabbing a sweet treat, such as their dark chocolate and sea salt cookie – utter bliss.

With oat milk, my coffee order totalled £4.60. It pains me to admit, but I don’t think that’s too steep these days, particularly when it’s this good. And it’s worth every penny in my opinion.

Where to head for a pint or a plate of pasta

Directly opposite Zennor is the Rose Reilly, my favourite pub in Govanhill. Named after the legendary footballer, it offers a welcoming atmosphere, a good choice of drinks and plenty of outdoor seating for sunny days.

For something more substantial, I recommend Pakistani Street Food for a samosa, Bar Vini for a generous serving of pasta and Errol’s Hot Pizza for the best pizza you’ll ever eat.

Together, these venues offer plenty of scope to turn a quick coffee visit into a longer afternoon or weekend exploring the neighbourhood.

More than a ‘coolest neighbourhood’ label

Govanhill’s fashionable reputation is only part of its story. The area faces challenges, and residents hold differing views about how it has changed, with gentrification a particularly contentious issue.

My view, however, is that its mix of people and cultures is what makes it such a lively and fascinating place to discover. The coffee may provide a reason to stop, but it is far from the only attraction.

There’s also libraries, craft spaces, workshops, community projects and events, and with great public transports links too, you’re never too far from other parts of the city. Other nearby neighbourhoods in Glasgow’s south side, like Pollokshields, Strathbungo and Mount Florida, are also full of fun things to do.

Abbas Araghchi’s warning comes after Washington rejected a seven-day roadmap to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

US president rejects Iran’s seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, saying the deal is not ‘acceptable’.

Just three hours to go, not that we’re counting or anything, ahem.

Someone who is especially excited is our TV Editor Nicola Methven who has bagged herself a seat in the audience for the live show tonight.

She’ll be witnessing the blood, sweat and tears up close – and that’s just from the new hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe.

Nicola is heading to Elstree Studios in Borehamwood to ensure she meets the strict arrival time of between 4 and 4.50pm. It’s at this point she’ll have her phone taken away and she’ll be ushered into the bar. Tough gig.

But not before she gives us all the secret info she can from the Strictly front line.

We’re not sure if we can convince Nicola to go full hog with fake tan, a sequin dress et all (despite our best efforts) she’s more focused on sharing everything we’ll miss at home. What she’ll see when the cameras stop rolling.

Nicola has been reporting on Strictly for decades but thinks it’s time for a shake up. She says, “The nation is resistant to change but I feel as if we’ll get used to this presenting line up quickly. We’ll know instantly if the vibe is different, but lets face it, it’ll be the same studio, same music, same judges and we’re going to love it!”

US Central Command says they redirected 122 commercial vessels to “ensure strict compliance” with the US blockade against Iran.

Will Best and AJ Odudu have sent fans into meltdown after sharing another Big Brother update live on air

ITV Big Brother fans have all said the same thing as hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best share a huge announcement live on air.

The hosts returned for tonight’s live eviction as one housemate was forced to leave immediately and say their goodbyes as their Big Brother journey came to an end.

Earlier this week, Pauline and Chesley received the highest number of nominations from their fellow housemates when they were asked to choose who they wish to face the public vote.

It came after a huge row broke out with Jedward earlier in the week, following this week’s theme of double trouble. Chelsey found herself at the centre of drama and chaos, with other housemates suggesting Pauline had a game plan.

For the last few days, it’s been up to the public to decide who leaves as they were asked to cast their votes. At the start of tonight’s live eviction (September 25), it was confirmed there had already been a staggering amount of votes cast, with over half a million at that point.

More came pouring in until the lines closed towards the end of the show. As Will and AJ returned to the stage for the second live eviction of the series, it was announced that Chelsey was the second housemate to leave the show.

But after her exit interview, viewers were greeted with another huge twist tonight, with hosts Will and AJ sharing an iconic announcement.

It was confirmed that this week’s theme was the “House Of Nothing”, but keeping in line with the theme, the hosts refused to say anything more about what it may involve, leaving it up to viewer imagination.

Viewers were quick to have their say though as one person wrote on X: “Oh the house of nothing is guaranteed to make this lot completely crack, I’m so ready #BBUK,”

Another said: “A house of nothing.. interesting, I wonder if they will take away their food and luxury items”, as a third added: “If the house of NOTHING means it’s really back to basics, I’m here for it.”

A fourth echoed: “House of Nothing. Please take all the furniture and beds away.” A fifth stated: “‘House of Nothing’ means No sofa, No dining room, no beds. Basically an empty house?!”

Viewers will need to wait until Sunday’s instalment to find out more, but if recent episodes are anything to go by, there is sure to be plenty of drama.

Big Brother continues on Sunday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX

Big Brother continues to be plunged into chaos with explosive rows almost daily

ITV’s Big Brother has certainly been delivering plenty of drama and chaos since it launched earlier this month, from explosive rows to clear divides and feuds.

Just last night (September 24) yet another row broke out as Rochelle and Johanne went head to head following concerns over uncooked chicken.

Wanting to cook her chicken further, Rochelle hit back at Johanne to say this would be against the rules for this week’s shopping task.

But things soon took a turn when the two started to shout at one another, with Johanne calling Rochelle an “old hag” and Rochelle calling her “nasty”.

Rochelle also hit back at Johanne before she was called into the Diary Room and warned against making “threats to violence”.

But with all the chaos to keep viewers entertained, fans cannot help but be distracted with one background detail, which they say continues to make them feel sick.

That detail is the state of the house, with housemates leaving clutter in each room. Taking to Facebook, one person wrote: “How can BB not sit there and punish them all for the living conditions of the house.

“Ok they cleaned ABIT last night but my god it’s a squat, and putting it on TV is embarrassing. How can adults not know how to clean up and make there home clean. Which it is now there home it’s madness.”

One person replied: “There should be house rules and that be part of one”, as another branded it as “disgusting”. A third added: “I don’t understand how they can relax and be comfortable and eat and sleep in such squalor.” A fourth echoed: “Totally agree, I keep getting distracted by the absolute state of the bedroom, I mean it’s disgusting.”

They then continued: “When Big Brother said last night the punishment for talking about nominations would be to clean the house I thought thank God for that . It should be part of the rules to keep it half decent at least !!”

A fifth fumed: “Should be made to tidy bedroom and make beds. Hang clothes in wardrobes”, as another penned: “Didn’t they normally have to clean every now and then back in the day.”

The living conditions were also picked up on The Group Chat spin off show when hosts GK Barry and Kate Lawler took a secret trip to the house.

It’s not just viewers though that are appearing to struggle with the messy conditions, with housemate Rochelle often seen in tears over the lack of cleaning.

Earlier this week she was seen crying to Big Brother needing a vacuum cleaner, with last night’s instalment saw her raising concerns over the mess in the kitchen.

The concerns come as Pauline and Chelsey face the live eviction tonight (September 25) with only one housemate being forced to say their goodbyes.

Big Brother continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX

Big Brother housemate Chelsey has “become one of the shortest-priced contestants in history in eviction betting”

The second housemate to be evicted from the Big Brother house will be revealed tonight.

Hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best will share the name of the contestant who has received the most public votes during Friday’s (September 25) live eviction show.

Chelsey and Pauline are both at risk of being sent packing and according to the bookies, the odds “do not look good” for one of the housemates.

Bookmaker Coral makes Chelsey 1-20 to be evicted from the Big Brother house this evening. Those odds indicate there is a 95% chance she will lose the public vote. Pauline is 8-1 to depart.

Coral’s John Hill: “The odds do not look good for Chelsey. We think there is a 95% chance she will be evicted this evening, making her one of the shortest-priced contestants in history in our Big Brother eviction betting.”

Pauline had the most votes with six housemates nominating her; Chelsey, Charlotte, Omar, Frankie, Rochelle and Philip and Sam, Harry, Pauline, Johanne and Rob nominated Chelsey, leaving her with five votes.

Millie became the first housemate to be evicted from this year’s series last Friday (September 18) after facing a public vote alongside fellow housemates Pauline and Rochelle.

Speaking after her eviction, Millie admitted she was surprised by the result, telling presenters AJ and Will: “I am actually quite shocked, I’m not going to lie but do you know what, I had the best time and I love absolutely everyone in there.”

She added: “I could hear the reaction from out here, and Rochelle doesn’t want to be in there. It’s a mix of everything, but I’ve made friends for life in there. So I’m happy.”

Since her exit, Millie has appeared on spin-off show Big Brother: The Group Chat, where she revealed her very honest opinion housemates Omar and Rhianna’s romance.

When hosts GK Barry and Kate Lawler asked Millie if she was a fan of the pair, she instantly replied: “No, I’m not.” She was then asked if she thought their romance was for convenience as there was no one else in the house.

She said: “100%. Number one, [Rhianna] she’s a very boring person herself. And I think the only way she knows she’ll get kept in is if she hooks up with someone. I genuinely think that’s what it is.”

Kate then asked if Rhianna was playing a game with Omar and Millie replied: “She is playing it 100% because she is not interested in Omar at all. When I was watching and I watched them kissing under the covers, I was like, ‘Sorry, what? Make it make sense’.”

Omar and Rhianna are not the only housemates sparking up a romance in the house. Nominated housemate Chelsey has also been getting to know Lynx leaving fans moaning “This is not Love Island“.

Big Brother continues tonight on ITV2 and ITVX at 9pm

Follow updates, build-up, team news and lineups, from our live text commentary stream coverage as Yan Diomande stars.

A HUGE new land is opening at a European theme park you may have never heard of.

Efteling in the Netherlands is one of the oldest theme parks in the world, and often compared to Disneyland for its fairytale themes.

And now has revealed that it will reopen its Raveleijn land on December 1 after a €20million (£17.2million) upgrade.

The star of the show will be the new €5million (£4.3million) Ravenring attraction.

The new ride features 18 winged vehicles seating up to 36 people, inspired by the Raveleijn ravens and takes them on a flight-like ride.

The new city at the park will also have a new show launching at the same time called Battle for the City.

Read more on travel inspo

SO FLY

Our fave beach hols under 5 hours from UK with Caribbean dupes & £2 bottles of wine

TRAVEL TIP

The £2.99 SIM hack that can save Brits HUNDREDS abroad

The €10million (£8.6million) show will be packed with stunts and follows a dark force awakening on two characters’ wedding day where a battle then breaks out.

A total of €5million (£4.3million) has also been spent on upgrading the surrounding area including the De Verslaeghen Draek Inn which has a menu inspired by recipes travellers have collected from around the world.

There’s a new souvenir shop too – In den Ravenkorf – where visitors can pick up costumes, toys and other Raveleijn products.

Raveleijn originally opened back in 2011 and has been closed for nearly a year for upgrades to take place.

The area is themed around the story of five children who pass through a secret gate and transform into “brave riders”, according to the park.

They must then defend the city against evil.

Director of Product, Marketing & Image Koen Sanders: “The sets have been extensively revamped and Raveleijn is getting a brand-new show packed with spectacular stunts, created in collaboration with the French theme park Puy du Fou.

“At the heart of the story: when evil arises, the heroes of Raveleijn join forces.”

Iranian media has reported the sound of an explosion near Iran’s Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, though the cause remains unclear.

BBC Breakfast host Sally Nugent was left baffled as her co-star disappeared live on air while presenting

BBC Breakfast suffered a live on-air blunder during Monday’s show.

The latest installment saw hosts Sally Nugent and Jon Kay on the red sofa, where they delivered the latest news, including the death of show regular and Normandy veteran Ken Hay, who survived capture just weeks after D-Day and spent years educating children about the war. He died aged 101.

As usual with BBC Breakfast, the hosts heard from weather presenter, Matt Taylor, who gave a forecast update to viewers at home.

However, on Monday’s broadcast, Matt’s feed suddenly cut out, as he disappeared live on air and it left a blank screen on air, reading: “Weather presenter editing playlist…”

Host, Sally, 55, said: “Oh, where’s he gone? Just in time. We kept a hold of him there” to which Jon, 56, added: “He’s gone, finished for shift!”

Poking fun at the technical blunder, Sally quipped: “Need another 50p in the metre!” while Jon added: “Let’s get the news, travel and weather where you are. Hopefully they’re there!”

It comes as veteran weather presenter, Carol Kirkwood, left the BBC show earlier this year after more than 25 years presenting. The BBC favourite announced her decision to step down earlier this year on the programme, revealing she wishes to dedicate more time to her husband Steve.

When Carol announced her departure at the time, she became emotional whilst discussing the difficult choice with Jon and Sally. At the time, she expressed: “It’s really hard for me to say this because I love my job.

“I love all of you guys, my weather colleagues, every department I’ve worked with, and of course, all the viewers I’ve been so engaged with for many years.

“But it’s great! I don’t want to be coming in on my zimmer frame, going, ‘I can’t reach the Northern Isles anymore!'”.

Discussing her future plans post-departure, Carol disclosed she’ll be dedicating more time to her husband Steve.

She continued: “We only got married a couple of years ago and we’re like ships that pass in the night, so I’m so looking forward to doing that.

“I’ve still got my books, I’ve got a few other bits and pieces. I want to travel as well.”

BBC Breakfast continues at 6am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Tehran says it has learned the US may be planning a new round of strikes, warns of retaliation ‘without limitations’.

Iran’s top security official says Tehran has sent its conditions for ending war to the US via Qatari mediators.