Love Island

Comedian Hasan Al-Habib made a heartbreaking admission about being ashamed of his religion

Award-winning stand-up comedian Hasan Al-Habib has made a heart-wrenching confession about once feeling embarrassed by his religion during his younger years.

Hasan is one of seven celebrities embarking on Pilgrimage: The Road to Holy Island, which returns for its eighth series.

Joining Hasan on the programme are former Britain’s Got Talent champion and Dancing on Ice judge, Ashley Banjo, radio producer, Ashley Blaker, Cold Feet actress, Hermione Norris, television and radio presenter, Jayne Middlemiss, actress and singer, Patsy Kensit, and Love Island and Strictly Come Dancing star, Tasha Ghouri.

However, in one segment, Hasan candidly discussed his experience growing up as a Muslim and how he once felt shame about his heritage.

He shared, “I was aware of faith from a pretty early age. I was lucky that I was definitely aware of my religion before I was aware that people don’t like it necessarily, or there are some people that are prejudiced against it,” reports the Express.

“I was growing up post 911 during the Iraq War, and that’s why, for a long time, I was kind of ashamed of being Iraqi because I didn’t like being associated with this war.

“I didn’t like being seen as the face of this conflict, so I tried to be as white British as I possibly could, and I realised that if you were funny, people liked you, and that was an invaluable currency for me at the time, because people didn’t like me.”

He continued, “Being Iraqi now, career-wise, it has been a really good thing. It’s definitely something I lean into now, maybe even too much for someone who doesn’t speak Arabic fluently and has only been to Iraq once in their life.”

Discussing his aspirations for featuring on the programme, the comedian added, “I’m really looking forward to the big questions and the searching questions that come as a part of doing this process. If you’re a rational human being, you’ve got to wonder, what happens at the end of all this, or where did we come from?”

He reflected: “People spend their whole lives answering those questions. So to have this opportunity to do it with other people, I think is really, I’m gonna say it’s a blessing.”

Hasan also accompanied Ashley and Tasha to a mosque, which proved to be a touching yet emotional experience for the duo. Tasha confessed to feeling quite moved, revealing to her co-star Hermione Norris that it was a revelation for her.

She said, “I am never going to forget it, and I felt quite emotional just seeing them two just really embracing their religion and just doing their prayer, but it was when they were doing it together, and that’s what made me go like, ‘Wow’.”

She added: “It was just powerful, and it made me realise we need to be more open-minded about religion and just not judge what people believe in, just because they believe in something different from what we may believe in.”

At another moment, Tasha became tearful as she remembered experiencing online abuse when she featured on Love Island. As she attempted to hold back tears, Tasha stated, “I suffered with ableism while I was on a reality TV show. People use your disability as their point to hate somebody. When people go on TikTok, making videos, literally taking the mick at how I spoke, it still gets to me now.”

She remarked through tears, “I don’t like crying,” before continuing, “It’s literally three years ago, but it still gets to me. I think it’s because I saw the impact it had on my family, my dad and mum had to see so many horrible comments about my disability, my and that’s why now I have a stronger shield within me, really.”

Pilgrimage: The Road to Holy Island is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

It is just one of the many upcoming projects the reality star has in the works

The makers behind hit dating show Love Island have teamed up with Kim Kardashian for their next reality series project which aims to be the ‘next Dance Moms’.

Having received a green light, the new show is expected to be streaming on Paramount Plus at some point later this year. Reality star Kim Kardashian will serve as executive producer for the new show

The title is a joint production between companies ITV America, which also produces Love Island USA, along with Kim Kardashian Productions and Paramount Sports Entertainment. Executive producers for ITV America are Mioshi Hill, Jordana Hochman, Jeremiah Smith and Tom Ciaccio. Natalie Ento also serves as an executive producer.

Named Team Moms, the series will launch viewers into the world of nationally competition youth baseball in the US. To do this, they will be granted exclusive access to the Legendary Prep Academy in Scottsdale.

Viewers will be immersed in what is Arizona’s first and only baseball prep school. The series follows the coaches, founders and a group of dynamic families.

Their respective teen sons who comprise the starting line-up for one of the most competitive youth baseball programs in the world. It is a feeder to Division 1 college scholarships, NIL deals and ultimately, fame and fortune in the MLB.

Willing to do whatever it takes for their children to excel at America’s favourite pastime, the intensity of the program is only paralleled by the fervour of its athlete’s parents, who will stop at nothing to ensure their kids make it to the big leagues.

It’s clear from the premise that the show hopes to be recreate the magic of Dance Moms which created such stars like Maddie Ziegler and JoJo Siwa.

This isn’t the only television project being produced by All’s Fair star Kim Kardashian. According to her IMDB page, she is also set to produce and star in the series Group Chat.

That is an upcoming drama about five glamorous LA women in their 40s who appear to live flawless lives, but their private group chat reveals the raw, messy reality beneath their polished facades..

She will also star in the series as well as Netflix comedy film The Fifth Wheel. She also has a Kardashians spin-off in the works called Calabasas Behind the Gates, which will focus on the exclusive, gated lives of the extended Kardashian-Jenner circle, including friends and neighbours.

Paramount hope that Team Moms will become another hit in its list of ongoing reality shows which also include Survivor, Big Brother, The Challenge and Making Love.

Team Moms is coming soon to Paramount+.

IT’S a wrap for Maura Higgins as she steps out for a video shoot in a pink dressing gown.

The ex-Love Islander, 35, was in London filming an ad for hair care company TRESemmé.

Her former boyfriend, Towie’s Pete Wicks, and another ex-Love Island star, Olivia Attwood, were spotted snogging recently, confirming Maura’s suspicions.

But on a happier note, she now has the £17,000 Birkin bag, promised to her by the winner of the US version of The Traitors.

TV’s Rob Rausch sent it to rival contestant Maura after he nabbed all of the £165,000 prize money.

Maura recently revealed exactly what procedures she has had done to her face in a very rare admission.

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She opened up to her fans about getting work done in an Instagram Q&A earlier this week.

In the post, she revealed she gets Botox around twice a year, saying: “I do get Botox every 6-8 months and I had lip filler years ago but I haven’t had any in over 3.5 years now.

“Other than that, I haven’t had anything else done.”

Maura has previously admitted to having composite bonding on her teeth for a Hollywood smile in addition to her facial tweakments.

OLIVIA Attwood has confirmed she’s undergone a cosmetic procedure just weeks after splitting from husband Bradley and her new budding Pete Wicks romance.

The reality star and documentary maker posted a series of serene photos to her Instagram page, showcasing her latest cosmetic treatment.

The former Love Islander looked fresh-faced in the pics, showcasing a glowing complexion and a plump smile – as a result of having new lip fillers.

“I had some lip filler for the first time in 2 years and I can’t stop pouting,” she wrote alongside the snaps.

Olivia has faced a tricky couple of months, revealing the end of her marriage to footballer husband Bradley Dack.

As well as the scandal surrounding her ex’s fidelity, Olivia, 34, saw her marriage exposed as a sham and swirling rumours that she is now dating long-time pal Pete Wicks.

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Yet her carousel of photos showed fans that she’s still thriving, not letting the whisperings get her down.

The star was indeed seen pouting across the array of images as she stepped out in different outfits attending various events.

In some, she was seen sporting a bottle green fur jacket over checked black slacks.

Others saw her in a limo and at a party with pals, donning a plain black sweater and skinny stonewash jeans.

She snapped further images in a chocolate mini-skirt and matching blazer, a tie around her neck, blonde mane swept back in a tight, conservative ponytail.

Other images showed pet dogs, shopping trips, a pair of new high heels and behind-the-scenes snaps on set.

In a final image, Olivia was filmed stood in a lift, pouting again for the camera, showcasing her style in a black leather cropped jacket, matching shorts and knee-high boots.

Fans were pleased to see Olivia enjoying herself amid the various scandals circling her in recent times.

“Dump the boy get the filler… the only way is up baby girl,” one commented under the snaps.

Another penned: “Love to see you smiling and laughing!”

The post also appeared to confirm that Olivia has custody of the dogs she shared with Bradley, with many fans picking up on this in the comments.

“Great substitute for a man, dogs are life savers and your girls are beautiful,” one penned.

Another wrote: “My main concern has been he better not take the dogs from Liv!”

Olivia admitted this week that she is finally feeling good about herself again amid the drama, and that she’s dating again, after being seen kissing Pete Wicks.

Opening up about the recent scandals, the ITV star admitted she “covered up” much of what was going on in her marriage and even arranged therapy for her footballer ex.

In a statement posted on Instagram, Olivia said: “I have stood by Brad for the last ten years during which he lied & cheated on me multiple times. The breakdown of our relationship is because of this.

“I of course now feel like a f***ing idiot (Especially as more things come to the surface).”

This was the first time she had publicly addressed why her marriage was over, but has also suffered backlash amid a fakery row involving her TV wedding.

The Sun revealed ITV‘s “golden girl” Olivia was never legally married, yet she has insisted that she is “not pulling the wool over anyone’s eyes”.

Meanwhile, a pal of Pete and Olivia recently confirmed: “They have been spending a lot of time together and an unexpected romance has blossomed from friendship.”

TOMMY Fury has risked pregnant Molly-Mae’s wrath after announcing a huge fight the day after her due date.

Last month, the Love Island icon, 26, thrilled fans when she announced that she and Tommy Fury, also 26, were expecting their second child together.

Tommy has now taken to Instagram to announce that he is taking on Eddie Hall on June 13 at the AO Arena Manchester.

Tickets go on sale Sunday and it will be shown live exclusively on DAZN.

The post has received over 130k likes and almost 1500 comments as fans eagerly await the outcome of the fight.

One boxing fan wrote: “Let’s Go!”

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Another said: “This is wild!”

While a third said: “I’m here for this.”

However, a fan asked Molly-Mae: “Does this mean Tommy is missing the birth of your second child?”

Since revealing the couple’s big news last month, where Molly-Mae said she was already six months pregnant, she has been teasing fans with little snippets and clues about her unborn baby.

In her latest Instagram post called “bits and bobs” she shared a slew of snaps of her second pregnancy journey.

This included pics with her and Tommy’s first child, Bambi, three, plus stunning baby bump photos.

But it was the photo of her baby scan that really stood out and revealed her due date.

In the sweet snap, the scan had been flashed up on the big screen in their movie room, with Molly and Tommy’s daughter pointing to it.

But if you look closely at the photo, it gives away when the influencer’s baby will be born.

The picture revealed she was 24 weeks and 6 days pregnant when she had the scan on February 26.

This therefore means her due date is June 12 which is only one day before Tommy’s big fight.

Molly-Mae recently raised concerns when she visited Ash End House Children’s Farm with Bambi where she shared a photo of the “three days old” lambs

As she showed off some young lambs on her Instagram stories, it sparked worry as there is a risk of contracting disease from animals who’ve recently given birth.

.The Children’s Farm has a section on its website dedicated to safety and measures pregnant women can take to reduce the risk of infection.

Her farm trip comes after she revealed she’s having trouble breathing during her pregnancy and is concerned it might lead to her becoming addicted to nasal sprays.

Molly went on to admit she is not suffering from a cold or any illness but still finds herself feeling as though she cannot breathe in the morning – leading to her reaching for the sprays every day.

She said: “I don’t have a cold. I don’t feel ill but I wake up and I can’t breathe.”

But she assured fans she was feeling well within herself and her pregnancy as she nears her due date.

LOVE Island’s Lucinda Strafford has been praised for showing off her natural skin as she gets her lips injected with filler in a new video.

The villa star, who is in a relationship with Sean Stone, popped into Jessica Rose Aesthetics for a couple of treatments.

She was makeup-free for the beauty session which included filler in her nose and 1ml of Revolax pumped into her lips.

Her eyes caught the attention of viewers as did her spots, with viewers pleased to see her proudly displaying them and urging her to represent brands that treat them.

Lucinda commented on the post: “The most humbling tiktok to ever see tbh xxx.”

She needn’t have felt self-conscious as all the comments were positive.

CITY OF LOVE

Love Island’s Lucinda jets off with Sean for a romantic trip to Paris

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One follower posted: “She deffo needs to be on as many acne brands as she can, because this girl would be a role model for so many young women. You can be beautiful and have spots!”

Another said “She makes acne look hottt! Beautiful girl inside and out.”

A third shared: “She’s so gorgeous it’s crazy.”

A fourth commented: “Her eyes are insane.”

In the video, Lucinda did her best to stay still, only flinching slightly as the needle pierced her lips.

It comes amid her trip to Paris with Sean Stone, their first holiday as a couple.

In one sunny snap in front of the magic castle, Lucinda wore Minnie Mouse ears and captioned it: “Living our fairytale…”

They also visited the Eiffel Tower with Lucinda looking incredible in a tiny polka dot skirt.

The trip to the French capital saw the couple get off to an early start, and Lucinda struggled with her bulging suitcase.

The pair checked in for an EasyJet flight at 6.50am.

After weighing their cases, the couple grabbed breakfast in the airport before boarding.

Lucinda tucked into eggs Benedict while Sean appeared slightly flustered, keeping an eye on the time.

Things quickly turned chaotic as the pair were seen sprinting through the terminal in a last-minute dash for their flight.

Lucinda admitted she had no idea where they were staying, teasing fans that the hotel was a surprise.

The couple were then seen arriving at luxury accommodation before heading out to enjoy a romantic lunch.

Gushing over the glam getaway, Lucinda declared: “This is going to be the best holiday ever!”

LOVED-UP Pete Wicks and Olivia Attwood kiss in a packed hotel bar — just weeks after she split from her footballer husband.

The couple, snapped in London’s Soho on Friday, are said to have begun their fling earlier this month.

ITV star Olivia, 34, separated from Bradley Dack in January.

Olivia and Pete have seen their friendship “blossom into an unexpected romance”, pals said last night.

The pair had insisted they were just friends but their public kiss in front of cheering pals proved they are a couple.

Loose Women favourite Olivia, 34, screamed, punched the air and beamed in delight afterwards.

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An onlooker snapped their snog at rooftop bar Flute in London’s Soho, where they partied for 3½ hours on Friday night.

The venue is where Towie star Pete, 37, was spotted kissing Love Island’s Maura Higgins in 2024.

Last night a pal of Pete and Olivia confirmed: “They have been spending a lot of time together and an unexpected romance has blossomed from friendship.”

Olivia only announced her marriage split from footballer Bradley Dack, 32, in January.

She and Pete, who co-host Sunday Roast: The Podcast, are said to have begun their fling at the Brit Awards on February 28.

The friend added: “Their passionate romance only started in the last few weeks, since she has split from Bradley, there was no overlap.

“Olivia’s close friends know about this new development and are pleased Pete has put a smile back on her face.

“He has been a shoulder to cry on and there for Olivia during this really tough time.

“She has been in the depths of a really horrible break-up and Pete has helped her through it.

“They have got closer and Pete has held a torch for Olivia for a really long time.

“She is hurting and vulnerable, and he was in the right place at the right time.”

The friend added: “They get on really well and are taking it slow, there is no label at the moment.”

Since her marriage separation, speculation has mounted that Olivia has moved on with lothario Pete.

The pair have known each other for around nine years and both starred in Towie in 2019.

Last August they partied with friends on a yacht off Ibiza.

Three weeks ago — when they were still thought to be just friends — we told how they shared a 3am pizza in a Manchester hotel.

Proof of their relationship came on Friday in Flute at the five-star Broadwick Soho hotel.

The onlooker said: “Olivia and Pete looked like honeymooners as they kissed in front of revellers.”

The couple met with pals and sank glasses of wine and vodka drinks from 8.30pm until midnight.

Around 10pm, they stood at their table and openly snogged as their friends cheered.

Olivia broke off to scream in delight and punch the air in celebration.

An onlooker said: “It was a party and Pete and Olivia were the main attraction.

“If you didn’t know, you might have assumed it was an intimate wedding or engagement celebration.

“You would never have guessed Olivia had just endured a painful marriage split.

“She was beaming in delight and couldn’t have looked happier.

“And at one point she rose in front of her friends, took Pete by the hand, and they kissed passionately as a group of ten to twelve people cheered them on.

“Olivia and Pete didn’t seem to mind who saw them.

“The noise and spectacle they were making caused everyone in the room to stop what they were doing and look.”

Olivia looked stunning in a black top and skinny jeans, with Pete in a smart jacket.

She stopped and chatted to other revellers in the dimly-lit, discreet venue, even asking other drinkers if they felt she looked OK.

A source said: “She was very sweet and so obviously madly in love with Pete.

“She was anxious that she looked good for her man. They had a blissful night.

“Friends came and went from their table and when they were alone they were very intense, whispering and pausing conversation to kiss.

“And they were just as tactile when in a bigger group.

“Whatever hardships she has been through, it was very clear that Olivia was ecstatically happy with him next to her at their table.”

Our snaps of the loved-up pair are a hammer blow to her estranged hubby Bradley, who plays for League Two Gillingham.

We told how he blocked Pete on Instagram weeks after the marriage split was revealed.

At last month’s Brits in Manchester, Olivia and Pete were seen chatting and whispering despite being seated apart.

She was on the ITV table while he was with Kiss FM.

That night Olivia told The Sun on Sunday: “If you are going to be single anywhere this’d be the place. Is Harry Styles single?”

She and Pete later left an after-party together and took a taxi to the Edwardian Manchester hotel.

At 3am Pete was seen carrying two pizza boxes through the lobby before getting into a lift.

Hours later the couple emerged together, with both wearing baseball caps, and were driven off at around 12.30pm.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony Pete told their podcast: “What always happens at these events is Liv and I gravitate towards each other and basically just stick together, don’t we?”

Olivia replied: “Because I feel like we both have the same objective. And talk to as few people . . .” Pete then added: “As possible.”

Pete then said: “Although we are not going big this year, are we?”, to which Olivia countered: “What do you mean?” Pete continued: “You have a flight the next day.”

Olivia replied: “I know, you need to keep me lucid enough that I don’t get stopped at immigration.”

Pete said: “The danger being that I jump on the flight with you in what I am wearing from the Brits.”

The Sun on Sunday revealed in January that Olivia had split from Dack – following what sources said was a “breach of trust” on his part.

In 2017, she went on Love Island, later saying it was revenge on Dack for cheating on her at the time.

They reunited, and she joined Towie in 2019, on which Pete was already a regular. He went on to dance on Strictly in 2024.

Our revelation of Olivia and Pete’s romance will fan the flames between her and arch rival Maura.

In August 2024, at the same Broadwick Soho Hotel terrace, Pete and Maura had confirmed their romance — after rumours swirled at that year’s TV Baftas.

Days after splitting from Pete last year, Maura took a pop at him on Valentine’s Day.

Asked where he was as she left a restaurant, she quipped: “Dunno, probably cheating.”

Pete has bedded a host of TV personalities including Jess Wright, Megan McKenna and Megan Barton-Hanson.

His and Olivia’s people were contacted for comment. 

TOWIE star Jordan Wright has died at the age of 33 after being found in a drainage canal in Thailand and his friends and co-stars have started to speak out on the tragedy

TOWIE star Jordan Wright has died at the age of 33 after being found in a drainage canal in Thailand. The reality star, best known for appearing on The Only Way is Essex after initially finding fame on Ex on the Beach, had relocated to the had moved the luxury holiday destination just months ago in the hopes of a “fresh start” before tragedy struck.

His death was confirmed on Thursday by the local police and the Foreign Office. Police chief Sutthirak Chuthong of Choeng Thale district station said: “The guest was identified as Mr Jordan Wright, a British national, whom the hotel had been unable to contact. A search of the room revealed no signs of forced entry or other irregularities.

Shortly after the news broke, several of Jordan’s fellow celebs broke their silence on the matter as they paid tribute to the TV star, who had returned to his roots as a fireman in the years after finding fame.

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In comments section of his final Instagram post, Chloe Brockett, who joined TOWIE in 2019, wrote: “Rest in Peace,” and emblazoned her comment with a heart emoji. Following that, Chloe Crowhurst, who found fame on Love Island, wrote: “Rest in peace Jord” alongside a white heart and cloud emoji.

Rykard Jenkins, another Love Islander, didn’t leave any words but chose to pay tribute in the form of a while love heart emoji and a symbol of hands in prayer.

Model Georgia Mercer wrote: “RIP Jord. You had the most infectious energy. Thank you for the laughs,” whilst influencer Scarlett Ellis saidL: “Such a lovely person gone too soon. Rest peacefully Jordan”

Tragic Jordan was discovered lying face down in the canal in a grey shirt and black trousers without any shoes on. A keycard for the Coco Phuket Bangtao Hotel was found in his pocket, police have said, with his phone nearby on the canal bank. Investigators have said there were no signs of physical assault or a struggle. His body has since been taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for an autopsy.

It’s understood his body was found by a Burmese worker close to Bang Tao Beach on Saturday afternoon – roughly around 12.30pm. The Foreign Office also shared a statement on Jordan’s death.

A Foreign and Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson said: “We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Thailand and are in contact with the local authorities,” they told the Daily Mail.

Meanwhile tributes from shocked friends have poured in online, with many taking to Jordan’s last post shared on Instagram – which he posted just last week. The post features a photo of Jordan smiling while holding a glass of wine and sat in an infinity pool.

Meanwhile tributes from shocked friends have been made online, with many commenting on Jordan’s last post shared on Instagram – which he posted just last week. The post features a photo of Jordan in an infinity pool, smiling while holding a glass of wine.

“I’m home,” he declared in the Instagram post, alongside an emoji of the flag of Thailand. He continued: “FT The best bath I’ve ever taken”. One heartbroken pal wrote: “Oh Jord, gone way too soon. Rest in peace darling”. Another added: “Can’t believe what I’m hearing. Lots of fun times and good memories with you mate. Rest easy.”

In a post shared in December, he posed with pals at The Big Buddah in Phucket and gushed in the comments: “A very exiting year ahead”.

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NO ONE could ever have imagined that little Maura Higgins from a sleepy Irish town would go on to be one of the country’s most famous exports.

Not least her sisters – Becki and Louise –  who have sat watching her meteoric rise to fame from the peripheries. There are few relationships closer than that of siblings, but what happens when celebrity gets in the way? Here, we take a look at their now very complicated dynamic – and reveal why Maura’s decision to miss Louise’s wedding had a lasting impact and how imitation isn’t always the highest form of flattery when it comes to Becki.

When Maura, now 35, chose to apply for Love Island, she already knew her older sister Louise was getting married that summer.

Astonishingly, fitness instructor Louise, 38, gave her blessing for her to miss her big day – but whisperings at the time suggested not everyone in the family agreed with the move.

She made it very clear what her intentions were when she chose fame over Louise’s wedding.

It was certainly risky, but it paid off massively. From the very first moment Maura appeared on screen in 2019 on Love Island, her family – which also includes her brother, who has never been named publicly – realised life would never be the same again.

An insider explained: “Maura was from a very tight-knit family and grew up in a place where everyone knew everyone. When she became well known, of course, things changed. 

“At times, she’s not always been able to support her sisters as much as she would like. She made it very clear what her intentions were when she chose fame over Louise’s wedding.

“Louise has spent years just trying to get on with her life, while Becki has been hanging off her coattails, desperate for even some semblance of her success.

“Like all sisters, there is a level of competitiveness and jealousy that just doesn’t exist in other relationships. It’s fair to say it’s very complicated.”

Today, Maura is a huge star both in the UK and in America – rubbing shoulders with A-listers and really putting her home town of Longford on the map in a way no one could ever have dreamed of.

But it has meant Maura has missed out on a series of huge life events – most notably her sister’s wedding.

When Louise walked down the aisle with long term fiance Mark Kelly at a private ceremony at Abbeyshrule Church, outside Ballymahon, Maura was busy cementing herself in the Love Island hall of fame.

Even Maura’s ex-boyfriend, James Finnegan, attended the big day, having grown very close to the family.

A source told us at the time: “Louise got engaged in 2016, and the wedding was planned over a year ago. So Maura would have known that when she applied for Love Island.

“But Maura and Louise are very close, and her sister fully supports her decision to go on Love Island.

“In fact, she’s happy for Maura and is delighted she’s been given an amazing opportunity to find love and further her career.”

Louise made the decision to distance herself from the limelight as much as possible at that time.

Mimicking Maura

But Becki, Maura’s younger sister, who is now 31, grabbed the chance of fame with both hands.

She chatted about Maura whenever she got the chance and even appeared on Virgin Media One’s Ireland AM for a fashion segment. 

Maura was delighted, gushing that she was “so proud”.

She started joining Maura on nights out and built up her own social media presence.

Becki, however, has never quite managed to break into the limelight fully – despite her best efforts. She regularly posts images of herself glammed up for a night out and clearly shares Maura’s same cheeky sense of humour, judging by some of her more risky posts.

She has just 3.5k followers but has still managed to land herself a few paid ads here and there. 

‘Scared and alone’

As Maura’s fame grew, her schedule became busier and busier – she moved to London and her once close relationship with her sisters felt the strain.

Maura has said she felt “scared” and “very alone” during that period of her life.

It wasn’t long until Becki and Louise stopped posting publicly about their sister – they couldn’t keep up with her endless achievements.

Maura tried to get back to see Louise’s children as much as possible and is particularly close to her niece Isabelle. While she may not always be around, she made sure she was there for Isabelle’s first Holy Communion in 2024, calling her a “best friend for life”.

When she found out her nephew, believed to be her brother’s son, was being bullied in 2022, she showed up at his school to pick him up – no doubt scaring the bullies off for good. 

Maura was very close to her siblings while growing up, and their bond became even tighter when her parents, Sharon and Seamus, split up.

The break-up was a defining moment in all their lives.

In an interview with Married At First Sight relationship expert Paul C Brunson‘s podcast We Need To Talk, she talked about a moment her mum collapsed at the family home, following her split with her dad.

Maura candidly said: “It was a very nasty break-up and a lot went on, like, things I would never want to talk about because I wouldn’t want to be saying things about my mum or dad.”

She added: “When the break-up happened, my mum was trying to keep a roof over four kids and herself, and we were all in school, it was very, very hard and I remember seeing my mum struggle a lot.”

Maura continued: “She had a nervous breakdown, she collapsed in the kitchen in front of all of us and only my older sister, she was a lot older at the time, she knew how to like put her on her side and call the ambulance.

“I don’t know why I remember this, but I remember, mammy has a rare blood type and my older sister knew to say that to the paramedics.”

Cutting contact

After appearing on Love Island, Maura ended up cutting all contact with her dad, which is said to have left him blindsided.

She explained: “My dad spoke to me not very nice. I’m not saying it was just a bit of an argument. It was horrendous where I physically couldn’t breathe after the phone call.

“I thought to myself, ‘I wouldn’t let a partner talk to me like that. I wouldn’t let a friend talk to me like that. I’m not going to let my dad talk to me like that’.

“But also, I think if I dig deep, I don’t think I’ve ever forgiven my dad for not being there for me when my best friend passed away. And he wasn’t there for me.”

Maura and her sister’s close friend, Andrew Rowan, died aged 26 in a crash when his motorbike collided with three cars in 2017.

The sisters were bonded by the horror. Tragically, Becki suffered more heartache when another close friend passed away at the start of the year.

As she laid him to rest on January 23rd, Maura was in New York filming The Drew Barrymore Show.

It was a real sign of just how far apart their lives had become. Maura’s future is no doubt going to be bright – but what part, if any, her sisters will play isn’t as clear. 

OLIVIA Attwood looked stunning as she enjoyed a wild night out with a host of Love Islanders this weekend in New York- with the star posing up a storm in knee high boots and a lace skirt.

It comes following the TV personality’s split from her footballer husband Bradley Dack, who was seen without his wedding ring for the first time this week.

Former Love Island star Olivia is across the pond to celebrate the launch of her collaboration with high street brand River Island.

She is joined fellow reality stars such as Toni Laites, Samantha Kenny. and Samie Elishi – who is also newly single following her split from Ciaran Davies.

Sharing a reel to her Instagram, Olivia was filmed as she told the camera: “First night in New York, going to town, RIP.”

She then said: “It all goes downhill from here…”

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Dressed in a satin mini skirt with a lace trim and knee-high boots, Olivia looked stunning for the night out.

She posed for a slew of snaps before hitting the town.

Olivia and the group were then filmed throughout the night as they hit the city’s clubs and let loose.

Sipping on cocktails and wine, the video showed the group as they danced together and even cheekily lifted up their tops and skirts – covering themselves with emojis.

Confirming that the girls had quite the time, Toni commented on the post: “downhill for sure”.

“A time was had,” said Sophie Piper.

The hangover seemed to hit hard too, as Olivia joked this morning that she was “hanging on by a thread”.

It comes as her estranged husband Bradley was pictured leaving training at League Two Gillingham, minus his gold wedding band this week.

The TV star split from footballer Bradley, 32, earlier this year following a “breach of trust” on his part.

Olivia is yet to divulge exactly what went on between them.

However, she did say that she would speak about her marriage breakdown when the time is right – insisting she had a “lot to process”.

The couple wed in 2023, four years after getting engaged.

MAURA Higgins looked incredible as she stripped off for a bubble bath for a new St Patrick’s Day advert.

The former Love Island star, 35, was seen relaxing in the tub with a cold pint of Guinness on the side.

Maura used the bubbles to cover her modesty as she enjoyed a relaxing soak.

Meanwhile, her crew were seen frantically searching a pub for her as one member screams: “Did you lose Maura?”

The video then cuts back to Maura who admits there’s nothing better than an “Irish exit”, which is the act of leaving a party or social gathering quietly without telling the host or saying goodbye to anyone at the event.

Looking seductively at the camera, Maura said: “There’s nothing better than a successful Irish exit. 

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“Sneaking away quietly in a well-timed Uber. I think it’s my new thing.”

Maura then reached over to her phone as she scored her Uber driver a five star rating.

She continued: “It’s like when you’re out or at a pub filming a work thing. I don’t think you should say anything to anyone about leaving anywhere. 

“You know it’s nothing personal, and the people usually understand.”

The clip then jumps back to her crew becoming increasingly panicked as they realise that Maura is missing.

One asked: “Does anyone have eyes on Maura?

“We can’t find her. She’s gone.”

The new advert is part of a campaign with Uber for St Patrick’s Day.

A relaxing soak in the bathtub is perfect for Maura after being rushed of her feet in recent months – from one project to another.

On Friday, the Irish star pulled out all the stops with her latest incredible outfit as she attended the Women In Film Oscars nominee party.

She made sure all eyes were on her as she stepped out for an A-list party in a strapless dress as she continues her American takeover.

The TV star posed up a storm in her corset style dress at the party to celebrate the Oscars, which take place tomorrow.

Last night’s party is just the latest in a string of glitzy bashes that the Love Island star has been attending as she continues her US domination tour.

The former Islander is currently starring in The Traitors US alongside The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills icon Lisa Rinna, who she was also seen chatting with at the Oscars nominees party.

The show may not have aired in the UK yet, but the Irish star’s quick wit has already made her a fan favourite in the States.

American viewers have also been enjoying watching the chemistry between Maura and Love Island USA star Rob Rausch, 27, play out on Traitors.

Maura was recently asked about their relationship when she appeared on US talk show Watch What Happens Live recently.

Host Andy Cohen told her: “The internet wants you and Rob to get together.” 

Speaking about her close friendship with RHOBH star Lisa, she told Andy: “Lisa helped majorly, majorly.”

Maura added: “Lisa, thank you very much for this!”

Meanwhile, further proof that Maura has cracked the USA, something that British reality stars have found hard to do, is that she has been signed to the top-tier agency Align PR.

Their client roster includes A-list stars like Madonna, 67, Matthew McConaughey, 56, and Bryce Dallas Howard, 45.

Maura has also proved herself to be popular with Hollywood stars.

In March last year, the star revealed that she had been invited to lunch with Margot ­Robbie.

The Barbie actress, 35, is a huge Love Island fan and previously described Maura as one of her favourite contestants.

Maura wrote on Instagram: “When Margot Robbie invites you to lunch . . . you go.” 

Amber Davies has broken her silence on an alleged feud with her Legally Blonde co-star Hannah Lowther amid rumours of ‘backstage tension’

Amber Davies has broken her silence on her alleged feud with her Legally Blonde co-star Hannah Lowther. The former Love Island star has been forced to pull out of her starring role as Elle Woods.

Giving an update to fans about her ill health, she wrote on Instagram earlier today: “Ok update: after talking to my DR, being on antibiotics and trying to recover whilst doing shows is getting me and my health NOWHERE. Been working on this lingering illness for a month now so I’ll be off again from my beautiful Elle Woods.

“This is the last thing I want but there’s no other way. I fear if I keep “pushing through” I will be battling with this for longer than I need to be. I can’t wait to be back on stage and feel like me again!!!”

However, there have been rumours about a feud between Amber and her co-star Hannah Lowther. Hannah found fame on TikTok in the pandemic and is a successful musical theatre star.

Insiders have said to the Daily Mail that “tension” had developed backstage after audiences seemed to be preferring Hannah’s portrayal of Elle over Amber’s. A source said: “When Hannah goes on, the energy is completely different.

“She gives it ten times more energy than Amber ever has, and just has that sparkle that Amber lacks. Everyone backstage is professional, but it would be fair to say the atmosphere between the two girls can be a bit tense at times.”

Now, Amber has appeared to address the feud head on. Taking to Instagram to comment on Hannah taking on the role, she also shared a personal message to Hannah, writing: “An extra special appreciate message to @hannahlowther who has given me all the grace and space to be poorly and recover. The show is in safe hands ALWAYS.”

Amber previously spoke out to defend herself, given her hectic schedule in the recent months. She added: “Also I keep having to remind myself I went from Gatsby, to a last min Strictly, then to Elle so my body’s evidently fighting for its life.

“I also keep reminding myself that it’s ok to be poorly, we are human. Just a reminder there’s absolutely never a right time to be poorly in a musical theatre schedule so you must, for your own sanity, go with the flow!”

At the time of writing, Hannah has not responded to the post but confirmed she would be playing Elle this evening.

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MAURA Higgins continued her American takeover as she ditched her underwear for a daring red carpet look.

The former Love Island star, 33, turned heads in a stunning plunging cut-out gown, posing for cameras at a swanky fashion bash.

The TV star posed alongside model Brooks Nader and TikTok star Dixie D’Amelio in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

Maura looked every inch the Hollywood star as she arrived at Vanity Fair’s The 2026 Vanities Party: A Night For Young Hollywood.

The Irish beauty flashed plenty of skin in the bold, black velvet and mesh Black Swan-inspired ensemble.

Maura was spotted at the event with Sports Illustrated model Brooks, 28, and social media sensation Dixie, 22.

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The trio mingled with guests at the star-studded bash.

It’s just the latest in a string of swanky events where the Irish former Love Island star has been making serious waves Stateside. 

Maura is currently starring in The Traitors US alongside Lisa Rinna, best known for The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills. 

Last week millions of viewers watched the Love Island 2019 contestant make it to the final as a Faithful before the grand finale next week. 

The show may not have aired in the UK yet, but Maura’s sharp sense of humour has already made her a fan favourite in the States.

It was that same quick wit that made her hugely popular on Love Island, before she won over viewers again during her stint on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

After filming wrapped on the US series at Ardross Castle in Scotland last June, Maura walked away feeling confident she had smashed it, according to pals. 

Traitors US began on January 8 and attracted 638 million viewing minutes which proved a streaming record for the show, now on its fourth series. 

Viewers have noted the chemistry between Maura and 27-year-old Love Island USA star Rob Rausch.

Maura was asked about their relationship when she appeared on US talk show Watch What Happens Live recently.

Host Andy Cohen told her: “The internet wants you and Rob to get together.” 

Rob certainly showed his appreciation for the Irish star by gifting her a £17,000 Hermès Birkin bag.

A credit to her rising popularity, Maura has now signed up with top-tier agency Align PR, whose clients include Madonna and Hollywood stars Matthew McConaughey and Bryce Dallas Howard. 

In March last year, the star revealed that she had been invited to lunch with Margot ­Robbie.

The actress is a huge Love Island fan and previously described Maura as one of her favourite contestants.

Maura wrote on Instagram: “When Margot Robbie invites you to lunch . . . you go.” 

Meanwhile back home, the Love Island favourite has also just bagged a six-figure deal with Victoria’s Secret.