Louis

How many fans that will be there to watch Wales this autumn remains to be seen with the current discontent surrounding the Welsh game.

There has been very little success on the field and disarray off the pitch in the past couple of years, with the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) now preparing to cut a men’s professional side.

The Principality Stadium capacity is 74,500 meaning the four matches could attract 298,000 supporters in November.

A WRU statement read: “With more than 200,000 supporters expected to visit Cardiff over the four-match series, to match average attendances over the last 10 years, ticket sales are tracking well against targets for the Quilter Nations Series.

“Fans are keen to see Wales take on Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa on home turf.

“As you would expect, the All Blacks game is the best seller and Principality Stadium’s best chance of a sell-out this autumn.”

The new BBC documentary dives into the ‘truth of being a young woman thrust into the spotlight’

Perrie Edwards is set to reveal what it’s really like being part of a girl band.

After the success of last year’s Boybands Forever, BBC Two is launching its female equivalent, Girlbands Forever. The three-part documentary will explore ‘girl band fever throughout the 90s and beyond,’ featuring personal contributions from the Little Mix star, along with singers from Atomic Kitten, Sugababes and All Saints.

A preview for the upcoming programme provides a taste of what audiences can anticipate, with interview clips from some of the celebrity participants scheduled to appear. It delves into the nostalgic 90s and noughties period when ‘girl band fever’ was rampant, reports OK!

Presenter Sara Cox describes the period as an “era of young women suddenly having a voice,” before noting: “But it was a small window”.

The brief 25-second trailer also shows Perrie discussing the backstage challenges of Little Mix, who rose to stardom after triumphing on The X Factor. She disclosed: “We battled the social media trolls together.”

The girl group entered the limelight during the early 2010s, so their journey provides a unique viewpoint on the difficulties female bands encountered in the social media era.

According to the BBC, audiences can anticipate hearing from Heidi Range (Sugababes), Kelle Bryan (Eternal), Kerry Katona (Atomic Kitten), Melanie Blatt (All Saints), Perrie and Su-Elise Nash (Mis-Teeq).

The programme will also feature chats with industry names such as Andy McCluskey, Clara Amfo, Darcus Beese OBE, Lucie Cave, MNEK, Nicki Chapman, Pete Tong, Pete Waterman, Scott Mills and Tulisa.

Girlbands Forever is a product of Louis Theroux’s production house, Mindhouse. Ahead of the show’s debut, Louis expressed: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of making this wonderful series.

“I well remember when the Spice Girls, Eternal and All Saints burst on the scene in the 90s. It was a special time in pop music and British culture generally.”

He added: “Then in their wake came a parade of girl bands, made up of girls who were all in different ways beautiful, talented and often very funny.

“Going back and rediscovering all that music and those videos and the interviews they did has been an absolute pleasure.”

Girlbands Forever debuts on BBC Two and iPlayer on November 1.

To say that President Trump is unfazed by Saturday’s nationwide “No Kings” rally, which vies for bragging rights as perhaps the largest single-day protest in U.S. history, is the sort of understatement too typical when describing his monarchical outrages.

Leave aside Trump’s grotesque mockery of the protests — his post that night of an AI-generated video depicting himself as a becrowned pilot in a fighter jet, dropping poop bombs on citizens protesting peacefully below. Consider instead two other post-rally actions: On Sunday and Wednesday, “Secretary of War” Pete Hegseth announced first that on Trump’s orders the military had struck a seventh boat off Venezuela and then an eighth vessel in the Pacific, bringing the number of people killed over two months to 34. The administration has provided no evidence to Congress or the American public for Trump’s claims that the unidentified dead were “narco-terrorists,” nor any credible legal rationale for the strikes. Then, on Monday, Trump began demolishing the White House’s East Wing to create the gilded ballroom of his dreams, which, at 90,000 square feet, would be nearly twice the size of the White House residence itself.

As sickening as the sight was — heavy equipment ripping away at the historic property as high-powered hoses doused the dusty debris — Trump’s $250-million vanity project is small stuff compared to a policy of killing noncombatant civilian citizens of nations with which we are not at war (Venezuela, Colombia and Ecuador). Yet together the actions reflect the spectrum of consequences of Trump’s utter sense of impunity as president, from the relatively symbolic to the murderous.

“In America the law is king,” Thomas Paine wrote in 1776. Not in Trump’s America.

Among the commentariat, the president’s desecration of the East Wing is getting at least as much criticism as his extralegal killings at sea. Many critics see in the bulldozing of the People’s House a metaphor for Trump’s destructive governance generally — his other teardowns of federal agencies, life-saving foreign aid, healthcare benefits and more. The metaphor is indeed apt.

But what’s more striking is the sheer sense of impunity that Trump telegraphs, constantly, with the “je suis l’état” flare of a Louis XIV — complete (soon) with Trump’s Versailles. (Separately, Trump’s mimicry of French emperors now includes plans for a sort of Arc de Triomphe near Arlington Cemetery. A reporter asked who it would be for. “Me,” Trump said. Arc de Trump.)

No law, domestic or international, constrains him, as far as the convicted felon is concerned. Neither does Congress, where Republicans bend the knee. Nor the Supreme Court, with its 6-3 right-wing majority, including three justices Trump chose in his first term.

The court’s ruling last year in Trump vs. United States gives Trump virtual immunity from criminal prosecution, but U.S. servicemembers don’t have that protection when it comes to the deadly Caribbean Sea attacks or any other orders from the commander in chief that might one day be judged to have been illegal.

The operation’s commander, Navy Adm. Alvin Holsey, reportedly expressed concerns about the strikes within the administration. Last week he announced his retirement after less than a year as head of the U.S. Southern Command. It could be a coincidence. But I’m hardly alone in counting Holsey as the latest casualty in Trump and Hegseth’s purge of perceived nonloyalists at the Pentagon.

“When the president decides someone has to die, the military becomes his personal hit squad,” military analyst and former Republican Tom Nichols said Monday on MSNBC. Just like with kings and other autocrats: Off with their heads.

Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, a rare maverick Republican, noted on Sunday on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that in years past, the Coast Guard would board foreign boats suspected of ferrying drugs and, if contraband were found, take it and suspected traffickers into custody, often gleaning information about higher-ups to make a real dent in the drug trade. But, Paul added, about one in four boats typically had no drugs. No matter nowadays — everyone’s a target for deadly force. “So,” Paul said, “all of these people have been blown up without us knowing their name, without any evidence of a crime.” (Paul was the only Republican senator not invited to lunch with Trump on Monday in the paved-over Rose Garden.)

On Monday, Ecuador said no evidence connects a citizen who survived a recent U.S. strike to any crime. Colombian President Gustavo Petro accused the United States of murdering a fisherman in a September strike, provoking Trump to call Petro a “drug leader” and unilaterally yank U.S. foreign aid. A Venezuelan told the Washington Post that the 11 people killed in the first known U.S. strike were fishermen; national security officials told Congress the individuals were headed back to shore when hit. Meanwhile, the three countries and U.S. news reports contradict Trump’s claims that he’s destroying and seizing fentanyl — a drug that typically comes from Mexico and then is smuggled by land, usually by U.S. citizens.

Again, no matter to America’s king, who said last week that he’s eyeing land incursions in Venezuela now “because we’ve got the sea very well under control.” Trump’s courtiers say he doesn’t need Congress’ authorization for any use of force. The Constitution suggests otherwise.

Alas, neither it nor the law limits Trump’s White House makeover. He doesn’t have to submit to Congress because he’s tapping rich individuals and corporations for the cost. Past presidents, mindful that the house is a public treasure, not their palace, voluntarily sought input from various federal and nonprofit groups. After reports about the demolition, which put the lie to Trump’s promise in July that the ballroom “won’t interfere with the current building,” the American Institute of Architects urged its members to ask Congress to “investigate destruction of the White House.”

Disparate as they are, Trump’s ballroom project and his Caribbean killings were joined last week. At a White House dinner for ballroom donors, Trump joked about the sea strikes: “Nobody wants to go fishing anymore.” The pay-to-play titans laughed. Shame on them.

Trump acts with impunity because he can; he’s a lame duck. But other Republicans must face the voters. Keep the “No Kings” protests coming — right through the elections this November and next.

Bluesky: @jackiecalmes
Threads: @jkcalmes
X: @jackiekcalmes

Wales’ players will assemble at their training base on the outskirts of Cardiff on Monday, 27 October.

New head coach Steve Tandy will then begin his tenure with a match against Argentina on Sunday, 9 November, with Tests against Japan, New Zealand and South Africa to follow.

Those fixtures, which will be broadcast live on BBC Radio Wales and Radio Cymru, represent a formidable first assignment for ex-Scotland defence coach Tandy.

He takes over a Wales side ranked 12th in the world and one that only broke an 18-match international losing sequence by beating Japan in Kobe in July.

“It’s been really exciting going through the whole process and realising how many good players we’ve got,” said Tandy.

“There’s a really good mix of some young guys coming in, mixed with some experience as well. But the overall feeling is really exciting and I can’t wait to get the boys into camp on Monday.

“It’s a new time and there are some new faces in and around the playing group as well.”

Carre has started the season strongly with Saracens, but was ineligible under Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) selection policy because he has 20 caps, five short of the required number for those playing for clubs outside Wales.

But in its statement confirming the squad, the WRU said Carre had been “included following confirmation by the Professional Rugby Board that he is eligible for Wales selection”.

Second rows Adam Beard and Dafydd Jenkins are back having missed the two-Test series in Japan over the summer because of being given a break and elective surgery respectively.

There are also returns for Jacob Beetham, Rhys Davies, Rio Dyer, Jarrod Evans, Joe Hawkins, Max Llewellyn and Nick Tompkins.

However, fellow lock Will Rowlands is not included having announced his retirement from international rugby shortly before the squad was published on Tuesday.

LOUIS Tomlinson has opened up about the death of Liam Payne and has revealed he’s struggling to come to terms with it.

Pop star Liam tragically died after falling from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires in October last year.

The pair were firm friends after being in One Direction together from 2010 and 2016 and they continued their friendship after the band split up.

Speaking about the grief of losing Liam, Louis told The Independent: “I naively thought that, at this point, I’d unfortunately be a little bit more well versed with grief than other people my age.

“I thought that might mean something, but it didn’t at all. It’s something I’ll never really accept. I don’t think.”

Louis is no stranger to grief, having lost his mum Johannah Deakin in 2016, when she died of leukaemia at the age of 43.

SISTER’S BLAST

Liam Payne’s sister swipes at his ex over ‘people using his death for fame’

‘MY WORLD BURNED’

Liam Payne’s sister says she’s ‘paralysed by grief’ on death anniversary

Just three years later, his sister Félicité tragically died from an accidental overdose at the age of 18.

This isn’t the first time Louis has opened up about Liam as he recently spoke about him during an appearance on Steven Bartlett’s Diary of a CEO podcast.

He told the Dragons’ Den star: “I could just go on and talk all day about how amazing he was, but I think we all looked up to him.

“I don’t think we would have been brave enough to say at that age when I was in the bnd, I think I would’ve had too much pride, but we all looked up to him massively.”

Speaking about the devastating moment he found out about Liam’s death, Louis said: “In the car, in LA. I found out through Niall [Horan].

“I had the same feeling that I had with Felicity, and I think anyone has this when they’re around someone who’s struggling; my 150 per cent wasn’t nearly enough.

“And that’s when it’s my own arrogance thinking that I could have helped really, because it was so much deeper than what I could have done for him. He was definitely struggling at that time in his life.”

Liam had flown to Argentina with girlfriend Kate Cassidy for a five-day holiday, to see his ex-1D bandmate Niall Horan in concert.

Liam extended the trip but Kate returned home to the US.

It is claimed Liam then turned to drink and drugs.

One Direction were formed on The X Factor in 2010, with Louis and Liam being joined in the band by Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Zayn Malik, who quit the band in 2015.

The boys came third on the ITV show and went on to sell over 70 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling boy bands of all time.

St. Louis Financial Planners Asset Management, LLC initiated a new stake in AbbVie (ABBV -1.04%), acquiring 14,630 shares for an estimated $3.39 million in Q3 2025.

What happened

According to a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing dated October 02, 2025, St. Louis Financial Planners Asset Management, LLC disclosed a new position in AbbVie(ABBV -1.04%). The firm acquired 14,630 shares, bringing its quarter-end holding to $3.39 million. The position accounted for 2.1842% of the fund’s $155,093,822 in reportable U.S. equity assets across 37 positions.

What else to know

This new position represents 2.2% of the fund’s 13F assets as of 2025-09-30

Top holdings after the filing:

• NYSEMKT:BIL: $36.73 million (23.7% of AUM as of 2025-09-30)
• NYSEMKT:TFLO: $17.27 million (11.1% of AUM as of 2025-09-30)
• NASDAQ:BSCP: $10.45 million (6.7% of AUM as of 2025-09-30)
• NASDAQ:PLTR: $9.23 million (6.0% of AUM as of 2025-09-30)
• NASDAQ:AVGO: $5.16 million (3.3% of AUM as of 2025-09-30)

As of October 1, 2025, AbbVie shares were priced at $244.38, up 24.08% over the past year and outperforming the S&P 500 by 11.71 percentage points

Company Overview

Company Snapshot

AbbVie generates revenue primarily through the development, manufacturing, and sale of branded pharmaceuticals, including key products such as HUMIRA, SKYRIZI, RINVOQ, IMBRUVICA, and BOTOX Therapeutic.

The company operates a research-driven business model, focusing on innovation and the expansion of its drug portfolio across multiple therapeutic areas.

AbbVie serves a global customer base, including healthcare providers, hospitals, and government agencies, with a focus on advanced therapies for autoimmune diseases, oncology, and specialty care.

AbbVie discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells pharmaceuticals worldwide, including products for autoimmune diseases, oncology, and other conditions. Its diversified portfolio and commitment to research support its competitive position in the healthcare sector.

Foolish take

AbbVie is one of the top pharmaceutical companies on the market right now, despite its relatively recent loss of patent for Humira, which was a blockbuster drug for the company. Despite this, its dividend remains strong and its drug pipeline robust. Several new drugs are in the works for fields like immunology, oncology, and aesthetics.

Since its acquisition of Allergan, maker of Botox, AbbVie has been burdened with a higher debt load than usual, but equally high cash flows have kept balance sheets healthy. However, a dependence on a few successful drugs does create serious risk should regulation or pricing pressures become a more significant factor in the near term. Higher interest rates could also become a problem, should the company need to refinance the debt it acquired in 2019 with the purchase of Allergan.

Even so, AbbVie is still a solid Wall Street Buy recommendation, with 5 Strong Buys and 13 Buys for October, as well as 9 Hold recommendations. It continues to beat on analysis estimated EPS this year, showing that it can, in fact, pivot despite the loss of a major income stream.

Glossary

Stake: The ownership or investment a firm holds in a particular company or asset.
Reportable AUM: Assets under management that must be disclosed in regulatory filings, such as the SEC’s 13F report.
13F assets: U.S. equity securities managed by institutional investment managers, reported quarterly to the SEC on Form 13F.
Top holdings: The largest investments in a fund’s portfolio, typically ranked by market value.
Dividend yield: Annual dividends paid by a company as a percentage of its current share price.
Outperforming: Achieving a higher return than a benchmark index or comparable investment.
TTM: The 12-month period ending with the most recent quarterly report.
Branded pharmaceuticals: Prescription drugs sold under a trademarked brand name, as opposed to generic versions.
Autoimmune diseases: Medical conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues.
Oncology: The branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Cuthbert believes Rees-Zammit is excelling after trying life in NFL.

“He is only going to benefit from coming back into rugby,” said Cuthbert.

“He has been in a high performance environment and knows exactly what it takes to play at this level.

“He has played rugby his whole life and has only been away 18 months, the game has not changed an awful lot.

“He has probably come back more experienced and professional. He was pretty laid back, but now he seems way more dedicated.

“It has probably opened his mind to a different way of seeing the game.”

Former Wales fly-half James Hook says Rees-Zammit has something his Welsh rivals don’t.

“He has that X-factor, that point of difference,” said Hook.

“You see some of the tries he scored before he left and since he has came back.

“To be fair, Wales’ back three have not done too bad with the likes of Tom Rogers, Blair Murray and Ellis Mee, but Zammit is just something a little bit different, with that little bit of class.

“He also puts people in stadiums and bums on seats.”

FORMER One Direction star Louis Tomlinson was duped by fraudsters in a £4million footie plot.

The Bigger Than Me singer became the face of Doncaster Rovers in the hope he could boost the profile of his childhood team and take them to the Premier League.

6

6

6

But the 33-year-old had the wool pulled over his eyes by a gang who stole millions from people’s retirement nest eggs.

Over two years £3.7million had been funnelled from hard-earned pension pots belonging more than 200 victims.

Prosecutors said the proposed Doncaster deal was used by the thugs to cover up the missing cash to cops.

As reported by the Mirror, criminal gang Kevin Phelan, Daniel Giles and Adrian Bashforth were all convicted last month and face jail time.

The trial at Leeds Crown Court heard Louis unwittingly became involved with the scammers in 2014.

At the gang’s trial, prosecutor Timothy Hannam KC said: “These defendants nicked money from people’s life savings.”

Former club chairman John Ryan enlisted Louis’ help to bolster support for Doncaster at the time.

The club was insolvent and staying afloat by Ryan’s loans and other investors.

Seqentia Captial SA tried to buy it twice, but deals fell through on both occasions.

Ryan also asked crook Phelan, 62, if he wanted to buy the club in 2013.

Louis later met with the gang at his Cheshire pad at the height of 1D’s fame in 2014.

Ryan transferred his 30 per cent shareholding to Sequentia and resigned as Doncaster chairman.

The proposed deal stated 70 per cent of Doncaster would be given to Belize-based Sequentia Capital SA if the takeover was successful.

Louis and Ryan would become the club’s public face while Sequentia would be a “silent participant”.

The One Direction singer started a fundraiser and aimed to rake in an eyewatering £6million from his fans and followers.

But the crowdfunder only raised £600,000 in the end, and £500,000 of that was from one of the fraudulent gang members.

The source of the offshore firm’s funds was “stolen pension money”, the court heard.

Phelan met Louis at his home in January 2014 and Daniel Giles texted the same day: “I’ve been interrogated for the last few hours over 1D boy. Kids want to come to the next meeting mate.

“I’m thinking 16 million brainwashed followers. Very very interesting.

“Let’s crack on now together and build a nice fighting fund.”

The deal would also see Louis take a 10 per cent stake in the club with the hopes they would reach the Premier League.

The singer would show his support at games and behind the scenes.

He met with Phelan and Giles, 51, at a One Direction concert in Dublin’ to sign the deal, however it didn’t go through due to the lack of funds raised.

Louis said at the time: “I’m gutted the Doncaster deal is not going ahead. I am desperate for the club to be given the recognition it deserves.

“I was told the deal to buy the club was not dependent on the money raised by Crowdfunding. Unfortunately I was misled.”

There is no suggestion Louis or Ryan knew about the pension fraud.

The defendants will be sentenced in January.

6

6

6

Sept. 12 (UPI) — More than 3,000 Boeing Co. machinists in St. Louis remain on strike after rejecting the latest contract offer from the aerospace company that seeks to end the strike that began on Aug. 4.

The defense contractor’s machinists rejected Boeing’s third contract offer on Friday and instead will continue the first walkout in nearly 30 years at the Missouri facility, CNBC reported.

“Boeing’s modified offer did not include a sufficient signing bonus relative to what other Boeing workers have received, or a raise in 401(k) benefits,” officials for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers said in a statement, as reported by CNBC.

“The democratic vote underscores the determination of approximately 3,200 IAM Union members to continue their stand together until their voices are heard,” union officials said.

Friday’s vote nixed a proposed five-year contract that would have raised wages by 45% and paid each worker a $4,000 signing bonus, St. Louis Public Radio reported.

If approved, the St. Louis Boeing machinists would have had their average annual pay rise from $75,000 to $109,000, according to CNBC.

The contract offer would not have changed available vacation time or other benefits offered in two prior contract proposals.

The union said 57% of workers voted to reject the contract offer, which improved upon a prior offer that would have raised their wages by 20% and paid a $5,000 signing bonus.

Boeing Air Dominance Vice President Dan Gillian told CNBC that no additional contract talks are scheduled.

“We’ve made it clear the overall economic framework of our offer will not be changed,” Gillian said. “We have consistently adjusted the offer based on employer and union feedback to better address their concerns.”

Boeing is hiring workers to replace those who are on strike to help the firm meet rising demand for its products, which Gillian called its “contingency plan.”

The Boeing facility produces F-15 fighter jets and missile systems.

Boeing workers in Illinois also walked out on Aug. 4 after rejecting the company’s initial contract offer.

A Six Nations winner and a British and Irish Lions tourist, Rees-Zammit stunned rugby – including Warren Gatland – by revealing his shock NFL switch on the morning the Wales head coach was naming his Six Nations squad.

His 32 caps mean he is still eligible to play for Wales under the cap rule despite not signing for a Welsh region.

And new Wales head coach Steve Tandy has already hinted at a possible return as early as this autumn.

“You wouldn’t rule anything out. Zammo [Rees-Zammit] brings a big effect and excitement by coming back,” said Tandy.

In his absence Wales have fielded Josh Adams, Tom Rogers, Blair Murray, Rio Dyer, Ellis Mee, Josh Hathaway, Mason Grady and Keelan Giles but none have the star quality with a strike rate of 14 tries in 32 Tests.

“He’s a fantastic athlete with strength, speed, pace, he’s an X-factor player,” said former Wales fly-half James Hook.

“He has the attributes to compete with the best players in the world in his position.

“It doesn’t help that he would be coming into a Wales team struggling but he has that x-factor and stardust. I just hope he can live up to that.

“Payers like Henry Pollock, Marcus Smith, Finn Russell, Antoine Dupont, Cheslin Kolbe generate enthusiasm and a buzz around any team they play in.

“Louis fits into that category and if he had been available he would have been in with a shout for a starting Lions berth this summer. He is that good.”

LOUIS REES-ZAMMIT is returning to rugby and will join a side in a controversial new breakaway league.

The Welsh star quit the sport 18 months ago and switched to American football.

1

Rees-Zammit, 24, had spells with NFL teams the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars but did not play a regular-season game.

He confirmed earlier this week that he was moving back to rugby.

And reports from The Mail claim he is set to sign for one of the eight teams in the R360.

The breakaway league, which could see fixtures take place across the world, plans to launch next year.

A franchise division has been proposed by England legend Mike Tindall and each side could be available to buy for £15million.

It is reportedly attracting interest from Manchester United owners the Glazers, Liverpool chiefs Fenway Sports Group and Red Bull.

Contracts for players could be offered for as much as £740,000.

But stars that move to the R360 could risk their international futures due to rules made by the Professional Game Partnership.

BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK

Franchises could see teams based in major cities like London, Tokyo, Cape Town and Miami.

Reports suggest that no club has been set aside for Rees-Zammit.

On his decision to end his NFL career, 32-time capped international Rees-Zammit said on social media: “I’ve got an exciting announcement to make! I’ve decided to leave the NFL and return to rugby!

“It’s been a great experience but it’s time to come home.

“I’ve decided that this is the best time to make this decision to give myself time to get everything in place for next season.

“There’s only one thing that’s on my mind, that’s coming back to rugby and doing what I do best. I can’t explain how excited I am!!

“There’ll be more news to come soon but for now, see you soon rugby fans.”

After participating in the NFL’s International Player Pathway (IPP), Rees-Zammit was initially signed to the Kansas City Chiefs, but was cut after failing to impress during pre-season appearances in 2024.

Rees-Zammit then joined the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he spent the entire 2024 season as part of the franchise’s practice squad.

Despite being eligible for elevation to the Jaguars’ active 53-man roster on two occasions as part of the NFL’s IPP player rules, the Jaguars never opted to elevate Rees-Zammit, including at both of their international games in London.

The Welshman temporarily left the franchise at the end of the 2024 season, but was soon re-signed as part of the expanded off-season roster.

Reports out of the Jaguars’ training camp in July suggested Rees-Zammit had missed practices due to a lower back injury, and his future with the franchise was placed in doubt.

And on Thursday, Rees-Zammit announced his decision to leave the NFL and return to rugby.

Before leaving rugby union in January 2024, Rees-Zammit had won 32 caps for Wales.

His former club, Gloucester, return to Premiership action on 25 September, while the United Rugby Championship season starts the following day.

Following the success of Louis Theroux’s series called Boybands Forever, the journalist is planning a girl group version, but one iconic group has reportedly shunned his approach

Louis Theroux is used to interviewing the best in the business. However, one band has reportedly shunned his advances to tell their story.

The popular journalist is creating a new bombshell BBC documentary on girlbands following on from last year’s successful production of Boybands Forever. It’s thought Louis had seen the iconic band as being instrumental in any production.

However, a TV insider has claimed that the quintet – made up of Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton, Melanie C, Melanie Brown MBE and Geri Horner – aren’t prepared to bare all just yet.

While last year’s boyband version saw Robbie Williams open up on his turbulent time in Take That, the source says the Girl Power group aren’t looking to follow suit.

Talking to the Sun, a source said: “The difference is that the Spice Girls are fast approaching 30 years since the release of their debut single Wannabe and have a string of projects in the pipeline.

“Many of the issues that Robbie brought up on Boybands Forever were wholly justifiable, and most viewers sympathised with his situation when he was in Take That.

“But none of the Spice Girls want to do the same, and they feel it wouldn’t be fair on their loyal fans to spoil the magic of Girl Power so close to their anniversary year. They want 2026 to be a moment when they celebrate the group’s achievements.”

While the Spice Girls are reportedly steering clear of the offering, other groups from the era are expected to feature. With it thought chats will be conducted face to face, members of groups such as Eternal, Atomic Kitten, Girls Aloud, Sugababes and All Saints are rumoured to be taking part.

Boybands Forever, which was released at the back end of last year, was a series that focused on boybands of the 90s and early 2000s. Among those who featured, as well as Robbie Williams, was Simon Cowell.

Prior to its release, Louis said of the series: “It involves some of the icons of modern British pop – and we see them through their highs and lows.” He added: “It’s how they came together, the experience of sudden fame, the opportunity and temptations that came their way, conflicts within the groups, between the groups, and between the boys and their managers.

“It’s a gripping fable about getting everything you dreamed of, and it not being what you imagined, centred on a generation of young men, and their managers, who were wildly successful and also immensely vulnerable, having the times of their lives and also in some cases cracking up.”

READ MORE: FatFace’s ‘cool’ summer dress that ‘doesn’t crease’ and will ‘pack well for holidays’

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

Soccer Aid, which has been running for more than two decades and has raised more than £100 million overall, had Sam Matterface as the commentator, with Iain Stirling joining him

Soccer Aid 2025 fans were divided as they pointed out what happens every time One Direction star Louis Tomlinson has the ball. The singer joined a slew of famous faces on the pitch but the audience seemed to have their focus on the star as they screamed and cheered every single time he was passed the ball.

Fans noticed how much louder the stadium got when he had the ball and took to social media to share their divided opinions on the cheering. One fan said on X: “Take that 1D kid off people screaming for him is becoming annoying and making this match unwatchable,” while another person more kindly said: “I love the applause that so louder when Louis has the ball.”

READ MORE: ‘Best strips’ for teeth whitening shoppers ‘ever used’ with ‘instant results’

“That constant screaming for Louis Tomlinson is already annoying af. I think a wave go around and that’s saying something,” one viewer commented.

Another posted: “You can tell when Louis has the ball as the crowd go absolutely wild,” with a laughing emoji. “The audible squeal with Louis Tomlinson gets the ball is hilarious! These girls have never watched a full 90 minutes!”

However, one disgruntled football fan said: “do these one direction fans have to scream every time louis touches the ball ffs.”

The event, which has been running for more than two decades and has raised more than £100million overall, had Sam Matterface as the commentator with Iain Stirling joining him.

England’s coaching team include the likes of Tyson Fury (Boxer), Harry Redknapp (Former football manager), Vicky McClure (Actor), David James (Former footballer) and Sam Thompson.

Former Made In Chelsea star Sam was meant to be on the pitch with the rest of the team but had to step aside after sustaining an calf injury during his gruelling 280-mile charity mission from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, the players include the likes of Steve Bartlett, Alex Brooker, Jermain Defoe, Toni Duggan, Sir Mo Farah, Angry Ginge, Tom Grennan, Joe Hart, Steph Houghton, Aaron Lennon, Dame Denise Lewis, Paddy McGuinness, Gary Neville, Sam Quek, Wayne Rooney, Paul Scoles, Jill Scott and Louis Tomlinson.

The World XI team, which is coached by Peter Schmeichel, has a few big names with the likes of Noah Beck, Tony Bellew, Leonardo Bonucci, Tobi Brown, Martin Compston, Richard Gadd and more.

Bryan Habana, Dermot Kennedy, Harry Kewell, Kaylyn Kyle, Gorka Marquez, Nadia Nadim, Livi Sheldon, Carlos Tevez, Edwin van der Sar, Nemanja Vidic, Billy Wingrove and Big Zuu are also part of the World XI team.

This year’s game is held at Old Trafford after previously being held at Stamford Bridge. Soccer Aid was also held at Old Trafford between 2010-2018 as well as most recently in 2023.

However, other venues have also been used in the past such as Wembley, Stamford Bridge, City of Manchester Stadium and London Stadium.

Soccer Aid was first launched in 2006 by former Take That star Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes. It initially took place every two years but is now an annual event.

Females were first allowed to play in the game in 2019 and it is the only mixed-sex match officially sanctioned by The Football Association. 2020 saw the event held behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic.

You can watch Soccer Aid 2025 live on ITV1 and ITVX will have you covered for a live stream on mobile devices*

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

READ MORE: Drake VIP tickets and how to get premium seating access now

LOUIS Tomlinson displayed “playground mentality” towards love rival Sam Thompson during Soccer Aid training.

It comes after Sun revealed yesterday that the former Made in Chelsea star, 32, had been ruled out of playing in this year’s match where he was due to play on the same team as Louis, 33.

7

7

7

7

Sam was due to play in the same England side as One Direction star Louis, 33, who is now dating his ex Zara McDermott.

The former couple split in December, with Zara quickly moving on with Louis.

The two men were both due to take part in Soccer Aid tomorrow, but it was revealed exclusively by The Sun yesterday that the I’m A Celeb champ had pull out due to injury.

However, before Sam was forced to quit, he was he was pictured training with Louis this week at Soccer Aid HQ in Tring, Herts, where the England and Rest of the World teams have been preparing for the match.

After looking at the pictures in detail, a body language expert believes that Louis displayed a “playground mentality” towards Sam on the pitch.

Expert Judi James said that while Sam was smiling and happy, and get along with the other players, One Direction star Louis seemed “glum” and “separate”.

She told The Mail: ‘There seems to be more of a playground dynamic growing from the body language here.

“Sam seems to be very much part of the core group, sitting central and being the center of their attention while Louis walks by looking glum at times and rather peripheral to the social interaction.

“As the guys club around Sam, who looks deep in the discussion, Louis seems to glance over with a rather hard-looking stare. 

“His eye direction might not be exclusively aimed at Sam, but he does seem to be checking the group out with an unsmiling facial expression.”

Continuing she said: “When the two men meet on the pitch there is an unsmiling, reflective-looking gaze from Louis.

“This shouldn’t be over-dramatized into any form of specifically directed ‘hard stare’ as his eye direction does not seem to be aimed directly at Sam, but there could be seen to be a hint of some kind of ‘atmosphere’ brewing here. 

“With his hands on his hips, Louis does look really down and perhaps rather uncomfortable.”

7

7

7

SAM QUITS SOCCER AID

Meanwhile, yesterday The Sun exclusively revealed how Sam was no longer able to take part on Soccer Aid tomorrow.

The popular star pulled out due to injuries sustained in his epic marathon challenge, in which he made the gruelling 260-mile trip from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford via foot and bike.

A source told us: “Sam is gutted he can’t play, but the match has just come too soon since his efforts.

“He’s still going to be a presence and play a big part in the coverage but he won’t be able to compete on the field.”

They added: “There is a small blessing in his withdrawal as the focus on him and Louis will disperse.

“Their every move will be watched so it’s a relief in some ways they won’t be on the pitch together.”

Sam will play a “ceremonial role” in tomorrow’s match, kicking off the game before heading into the stands.

Soccer Aid kicks off tomorrow night at 7.30pm on ITV and ITVX

England team and coaching staff

Here is a look at the full team for England for Soccer Aid 2025…

Team:

• Steven Bartlett (Entrepreneur)
• Alex Brooker (TV personality)
• Jermain Defoe (Former footballer)
• Toni Duggan (Former footballer)
• Angry Ginge (YouTuber)
• Tom Grennan (Musician)
• Bear Grylls (TV personality)
• Joe Hart (Former footballer)
• Steph Houghton (Former footballer)
• Aaron Lennon (Former footballer)
• Dame Denise Lewis (Olympic gold medallist)
• Paddy McGuinness (TV personality)
• Sir Mo Farah (Former Olympian)
• Gary Neville (Former footballer)
• Sam Quek (Former hockey player/TV personality)
• Wayne Rooney (Former footballer and manager)
• Paul Scholes (Former footballer)
• Jill Scott (Former footballer)
• Sam Thompson (King of the Jungle)
• Louis Tomlinson (Musician)
• Michael Carrick (Former footballer)
• Phil Jagielka (Former footballer)
• Roman Kemp (Radio host)
• Jack Wilshere (Former footballer)
• Bella Ramsey (Actor)

Coaches:

• Wayne Rooney (Former footballer and manager)
• Tyson Fury (Boxer)
• Harry Redknapp (Former football manager)
• Vicky McClure (Actor)
• Goalkeeping coach: David James (Former footballer)

Sam Thompson gets emotional ahead of Soccer Aid which will see him play on the same team as ex-love Zara McDermott’s new boyfriend Louis Tomlinson

Playing with their football heroes is a dream come true for the stars taking part in Soccer Aid – but raising money for UNICEF is the real prize for stars including Sam Thompson and Louis Tomlinson. Since singer Robbie Williams created the event in 2006, over £106 million has been raised. This year’s match takes place at Old Trafford and will see Wayne Rooney playing for England alongside his former Manchester United teammates Gary Neville and Paul Scholes, plus Lionesses Jill Scott, Steph Houghton and Toni Duggan.

Joining them is a cool crew of celebs including Paddy McGuinness, Sam Quek and Tom Grennan. While the World XI team includes Richard Gadd, Edwin van der Sar, Martin Compston and Tony Bellew.

Sam has got a dual role: as well as playing on the pitch, he’s also been running and cycling 260 miles to hand-deliver the ball to Old Trafford and raise more money in a challenge called Matchball Mission for Unicef.

“One of the most special things about Soccer Aid for UNICEF is the togetherness that it brings out,” says Sam, 32. “I’ll never forget being sat at that training dinner table watching the television screens of UNICEF’s great work. People were shedding tears – everyone’s in it together. When we realised we’d helped to raise a record milestone of over £100 million since the game first began, the cheer that went up was bigger than the cheer of winning the actual game, which I think is quite telling.”

Tears also played a part when Sam crossed the finish line on Friday as he delivered the match ball to Old Trafford and got a congratulatory message from Prime Minister Kier Starmer.

He told the Mirror it’s “mad” that the Prime Minister said he was “inspiring”. “I can’t believe the prime minister knows my name,” Sam said. “I’m on double codeine and paracetamol… I am not going to lie, it hurts a lot,” Sam admitted as he walked to a nearby hotel.

The 32 year old, who has already raised over £1.5 million from the challenge, confessed: “I am totally broken – but so happy . The fact this challenge has grabbed everyone’s attention is just so incredible and I have just been blown away!”

And yesterday he was crying again on This Morning yesterday as he recalled the feat, telling Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley: “I’ve gotto stop crying! You’re making me so emotional, so many tears man.”

Soccer Aid host Dermot O’Leary is also returning and says half-time is his favourite part of the match because he gets to play pundit. “You have these special moments, it’s a laugh and you’re watching a game of football and you’re seeing goals,” says the 52-year-old.

Former One Direction star Louis lists playing with Ronaldinho as one of his greatest Soccer Aid memories, but for Jill, it’s buddying up with Football Factory star Danny Dyer that makes her day.

“He’s my type of player,” grins Jill, 38. “Strong tackles, probably swears a little bit too much, but I love that passion and football aggression!”

Soccer Aid for Unicef 2025 airs on Sunday at 6pm on ITV1. Join The Mirror’s WhatsApp Community or follow us on Google News , Flipboard , Apple News, TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads – or visit The Mirror homepage.