European capitals continue to be beloved getaway destinations for countless Britons looking for a quick break from daily life. With straightforward access by plane or train, these cities are perfect for long weekend trips. Yet an increasing number of locations are gaining notoriety amongst travellers for being hostile, dirty and dangerous.
One city in particular has been singled out as a place to avoid, according to recent reviews from British visitors. Long considered the ultimate destination for a romantic retreat, Paris has faced significant backlash, reports the Express.
In a Reddit thread, one user branded the city as grimy and said locals were “unbelievably rude”.
ExplanationWorried14 wrote: “I said ‘merci’ when someone actually stopped at a crossing and he looked angry and shrugged like I was an idiot.
“Some school girls sang a song about me being an English w****, despite me wearing a long, flowing hippie dress that in no way revealed any flesh, and I felt unsafe.”
“Got followed by two men near the Louvre. Would never go back. I don’t know why people say it’s romantic… I guess those people are into some weird stuff.”
Another commenter pointed to rampant criminal behaviour and mentioned that the French capital came with a steep price tag.
Mister Pink said: “Lots and lots of crime is very visible all around in the form of pickpockets and con artists. Very expensive, and the Parisians generally were pretty rude.
“At least when you go to the nicer bits of London for food, the area tends to be quite nice to match the outrageous prices.”
Other well-known European cities fared little better in the eyes of the Reddit users, who were equally ruthless in their verdicts.
Berlin was branded as a city overrun with rude locals.
Philosophyguilty wrote: “Old school Berliners are vicious. If you live in Berlin for any length of time, you will have a tale or two about them.”
Softwarepanda agreed, writing: “Never been in a place with so much grumpiness.”
Brussels was labelled as having a “pretty grim vibe”, while Rome — a city forever synonymous with La Dolce Vita — was alleged to be crawling with “scammers and gropers”.
Situated in the south west of Germany, on the border of the iconic Black Forest mountain range, the city has jointly been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site
13:19, 17 May 2026Updated 13:19, 17 May 2026
Baden-Baden has been described as “one of Europe’s most elegant hidden gems” (stock image)(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
If you’re thinking about a trip to Europe, but want something a bit off the beaten track, one “hidden gem” with historic spas, Roman ruins, and incredible museums could be just the ticket. Situated in the south west of Germany, on the border of the iconic Black Forest mountain range, the city has, along with Bath in Somerset and nine other locations, jointly been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of ‘The Great Spa Towns of Europe’.
Travel influencer Katherine McQueen, who has 685,000 followers on Instagram, where she is known as vineyardsandvoyages, posted a look into everything the city has to offer. She said: “This is one of Europe’s most elegant hidden gems… and most people skip it.”
Describing the city as “polished, romantic, and completely different from the bigger stops most travellers add to their itineraries”, she hailed its “pastel streets, grand architecture, thermal baths, elegant cafés, beautiful gardens, and old-world glamour around every corner”. But it was the history which she hailed as its most important element.
“People have been coming here for the thermal waters since Roman times, and wellness is still one of the biggest reasons to visit today,” she said. “You can soak in mineral-rich baths, wander through historic spa buildings, and experience a side of Germany that feels slow, refined, and deeply relaxing.”
Katherine also praised the city’s glittering casino, food – including, of course, the iconic Black Forest gateau – and location, calling it “one of the most unexpectedly charming places I’ve visited in Germany”.
The city in question is Baden-Baden, located around 15 miles east of the French border, and 42 miles west of Stuttgart.
In the post Katherine explained more about what the city has to offer. “Some of the bathhouses here feel more like palaces than spas, with mineral pools, grand domes, and centuries of wellness history,” she said. “But it’s not just a spa town. It’s also filled with elegant architecture, gardens, colonnades, and beautiful places to wander.”
She added: “The whole city has this refined, romantic atmosphere. Long covered walkways, grand buildings, art, gardens, and peaceful corners everywhere.”
Concluding, she said: “It has that rare mix of history, wellness, food, architecture, and nature, all in one very walkable little city. Everywhere you look, there are details that make it feel grand without feeling overwhelming. This town rewards slow wandering. Hidden side streets, stairways, dreamy corners, and beautiful views around every turn.”
The city’s official tourism website says: “Baden-Baden was founded 2,000 years ago to do people good. Thermal water at temperatures of up to 68 degrees gushes out of the earth from 12 thermal springs in Baden-Baden. Even today, our spa town at the foot of the Black Forest is the perfect place to enjoy spa tradition – whether in the Caracalla Spa or in the historic Friedrichsbad Spa.”
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How can I get to Baden-Baden?
By air: Direct flights to Baden-Baden are available from London Stansted Airport. Indirect flights are also available from most other UK airports.
By train: You can take the Eurostar to Paris or Brussels, with various connecting routes available.
By car: You can drive by taking the Eurostar and then heading south east through France, or east into Belgium before crossing, into Germany. Once arriving in France, the route is between 400 and 450 miles, taking between six and seven hours.
London City Lionesses are an ambitious club under owner Michele Kang and had a steady debut campaign in the WSL, finishing sixth after eight wins from 22 matches.
Sources at the club say an agreement with Earps has not yet been made, but they remain optimistic about their summer business.
Eder Maestre’s side have been linked with several players including Barcelona defender Mapi Leon and England winger Beth Mead, who announced her departure from Arsenal this week amid additional interest from Manchester City.
Earps is one of a number of big-name players potentially available on a free deal this summer, with Arsenal’s Mead and Katie McCabe leaving, Barcelona’s Alexia Putellas yet to sign a new contract, Sam Kerr departing Chelsea and Manchester City top scorer Khadija Shaw rejecting contract renewal proposals.
During her time in England, Earps became one of the country’s most recognised and influential players, though her book – released in November – caused controversy and dominated headlines in the media for several weeks.
PARIS Fury has revealed why Tommy Fury wasn’t at Venezuela’s wedding after his pregnant fiancée Molly-Mae Hague flew to the venue by private jet.
The proud mother-of-the-bride showered Molly, 26, with praise for going above and beyond to make it to Venezuela’s big day, while Tommy was nowhere to be seen.
Paris Fury said she was very impressed by Molly, who travelled by private jet to the weddingCredit: SplashBambi was one of Venezuela’s bridesmaids for the big dayCredit: Splash
Molly, who is heavily pregnant with her second child, was seen stepping onto the runway with her daughter Bambi, 3, and sister Zoe Rae.
The extravagant soiree is taking place at The Comis Hotel and Resort on the outskirts of Douglas, Isle of Man.
In awe of Molly, Paris told The Sun: “She is incredible. She is being fully supportive, and she is bringing Bambi over, so that Bambi could be a bridesmaid with the kids.
“But I have got to throw her props. She is making that journey while heavily pregnant and I wouldn’t have been able to face that while I was at her term of pregnancy.
Venezuela said ‘I do’ to her husband Noah Price, on the Isle of ManCredit: PP.Molly-Mae’s fiancé, Tommy Fury wasn’t able to join the wedding celebrationsCredit: Splash
“It’s very good,” Paris added.
Molly’s fiancé, Tommy, 27, Tyson’s younger brother, wasn’t able to join in the festivities.
Tommy, who Molly met on the reality TV hit in 2019, had to stay in Manchester for his boxing training camp.
She says: “I’m very glad that they are coming. It means a lot. It’s a big journey for anyone to come from home to here.
Venezuela with husband Noah Price, in a custom-made bridal gownCredit: PP.Molly-Mae and Tommy are expecting their second babyCredit: mollymae/Instagram
“It’s lovely that they are making the effort. It’s lovely that Bambi and the other little girls all get to be bridesmaids. They are all cousins and it’s sweet that they‘ll make memories together.”
Bambi is one of 13 of the child bridesmaids, including Venezuela’s little sisters Valencia, eight, and Athena, including four of Noah’s cousins, and family members, as well as five grown up bridesmaids.
Venezuela revealed: “I chose powder blue cupcake dresses for the little ones, they’re really cute, and fitted gowns for my friends.”
Paris said: “Evangeline Designs in Liverpool made the bridesmaid dresses and every day there it was like, ‘There’s a new little dress, there’s a new dress there’s a new dress, because we ended up having a few extra little bridesmaids’.
“They’re wearing flowers in their hair.”
Paris revealed: “We found £120 shoes for the little ones, and the only shoes we found in the right shade of blue for the women were stunning shoes that were £13 from Shein.”
Paris stored all the wedding party outfits in a specially allocated wedding room in the basement of their home.
Paris and Venezuela thoughtfully put together goodie bags, which included diamante Primark flip flops, matching pyjamas, a hairbrush, sweets, Doll beauty make up and a “little dolly” for each of the younger bridesmaids.
And it wasn’t just the women who dazzled on Venezuela’s big day. The men were looking just as dapper.
“The men are in black tuxedos, Tyson too and Noah is in an ivory tuxedo. Noah picked it,” Paris said.
“Collecting everything wasn’t easy. I felt like I was doing circles on ferries with carloads.”
This top destination combines a great European city break with stunning nature trails through parks, woodlands and historic districts
This city has hundreds of walking trails(Image: Getty)
Summer holidays are fast approaching, yet countless travellers return home feeling utterly drained, having crammed far too much into their getaway. If you’re weary of needing a break to recover from your break, perhaps it’s time to embrace the slow travel movement.
One of the finest ways to adopt slow travel is by selecting destinations that promote rest and reconnection with the natural world, making walking holidays a superb option.
Dave Mills, Chief Commercial Officer at Iglu Cruise said: “Walking holidays offer flexibility and adventure, teaching travellers to enjoy the present moment and savour their travel experiences. You can still see the sights, but a more leisurely pace can offer a more rewarding trip.”
To assist travellers in striking the ideal balance, travel specialists from Iglu have put together a list of the finest European city breaks that also feature genuinely stunning walking trails.
They examined data from the outdoor app AllTrails to pinpoint cities boasting the greatest number of walking routes within a 15-minute radius of the city centre.
One of the finest spots to immerse yourself in nature while still making the most of your city break is Vienna in Austria.
Celebrated for its natural splendour, the city offers 250 walking trails and 12 official hiking routes, all readily accessible via public transport.
These 12 paths are conveniently numbered, making them simple to locate. For those seeking stunning vistas and a relaxing glass of wine, City Hiking Trail 1 is ideal. Beginning in Kahlenberg, this seven-mile route offers sweeping views of the Danube River.
The path meanders through expansive vineyards — some of which feature pop-up stalls where visitors can sample a glass.
Another favourite is City Hiking Trail 9, which threads through verdant woodlands and meadows before leading walkers along the boulevard in Leopoldstadt, where numerous cafés offer the perfect spot for a delightful snack or meal.
City Hiking Trail 5 is also highly regarded, situated in Floridsdorf. This route is beloved by locals and lies away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Stretching six miles, it showcases open fields and abundant wildlife, including deer.
One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “We just returned from a week in Vienna. Absolutely magical city. It looks like a city of fairy tales. I think it’s more beautiful than Paris, and Prague. Gorgeous. It’s clean and well-kept, and there is an incredible amount of beautiful architecture and art. Trip of a lifetime.”
Several Disneyland Paris visitors have gone online this week to share photos of the ‘eyesore’ white construction board that’s been put in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle while refurbishment work happens
12:04, 07 May 2026Updated 12:07, 07 May 2026
The main bridge and central archway entrance of the Sleeping Beauty Castle are currently closed for a major refurbishment (stock image)(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
The iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle is one of the main attractions at Disneyland Paris, with many visitors excited to get their first glimpse of it when they go there. However, many have been left “gutted” as the main bridge and central archway entrance are currently closed for a major refurbishment scheduled to last until late September 2026.
Several Disneyland Paris visitors took to Facebook groups this week to share photos of the ‘eyesore’ white board that was put in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle. They said they were left ‘devastated’ that this would be their family’s first experience at Disney and that it would now be ‘ruined’.
One person shares a wrote on Wednesday (May 6): “Not being funny but they could have at least got a feature wall maybe to represent the bridge. This is not a little refurbishment, Disney planned this and definitely have the money to make it more attractive whilst the park is still open to visitors paying a lot of money.”
Another agreed: “I’d be so devastated if this was my first and only time being able to go to Disney. Everyone wants pics in front of the castle. It’s a lot of money to be paying and for many a once in a lifetime holiday and yes while you’re not paying just to get a photo at the castle that is a big part of the experience for many.
“Gutted we can’t get our annual photo in front of it this year but lucky enough to have gotten three photos in front of it so far.”
A third chimed in: “Actually gutted. We’ve booked for June. Why is this being done in the summer months when logically it will be busier period. Surely it makes more sense to do in the winter.”
Despite the complaints, many Disney fans argued you could still get nice pictures of the castle behind the boards.
One person wrote: “We got a picture this morning behind the boards, and a nice empty bridge too.”
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While another added: “You can still get lovely pictures, if not better from the side.”
Another person also showed people what the castle looked like at night during the fireworks. They wrote: “We have just got back from being in the reserved viewing area for the fireworks this evening. I know a lot of people wanted to see what the view is like.
“To be honest we didn’t even look at the boards. They’ve moved the area backwards so you’re looking up and none of the projection is limited. Honestly we still had the best time.”
The post was captioned: “They have officially decorated the white wall, and it definitely looks prettier.”
One person replied: “Is this real? If so it looks a million times better and has made me feel so much happier about our trip in a couple of weeks. I know everyone is going on about photos but I don’t care about getting the perfect shot-it’s about the impact for my two girls walking up to the castle for the first time in their lives and getting that first impression and ‘wow’ factor.”
Their Spanish coach is the mastermind of this new PSG, built from the ashes of the superstar era which saw Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar the centrepieces of a dysfunctional, ego-ridden outfit who never resembled a team.
In their place is the perfect combination of brilliant individual skill bolted on to a savage work ethic and defensive solidity that will make them a formidable hurdle for Arsenal to overcome.
And the leader is Marquinhos.
The Brazil centre-half arrived at PSG from Roma in 2013, surviving Luis Enrique’s cull of big names because the coach is wise enough to see a consummate professional and world-class defender when he sees one.
He has formed a superb partnership with the formidable Willian Pacho, who played a key role in keeping Kane under wraps until the England captain’s strike in the dying seconds.
Kvaratskhelia and Dembele combined for the game’s defining moment, while 20-year-old Desire Doue – the young face of the new PSG – tormented Vincent Kompany’s side, coming close on several occasions in the second half.
And yet the glue that held it all together was Marquinhos, still peerless at 31, and with the uncanny knack of being in the right place at the right time while exuding calm authority.
To complete the picture, PSG’s midfield of Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz and Joao Neves is the well-oiled engine room linking it all together.
Ruiz’s pass in the build-up to Dembele’s goal was a thing of beauty – but he then reverted to doing the defensive dirty work Luis Enrique demands and which his team seems only too happy to deliver.
BBC Sport experts Stephen Warnock and Nedum Onuoha analyse the difference between the attacking trios of Bayern Munich and PSG following their Champions League semi-final first leg.
The tone was set for a dazzling European encounter when both sets of fans unfurled giant tifos before kick-off – PSG’s was emblazoned with the words ‘the conquest of Europe’, while the visitors’ banner urged their side to ‘give everything’.
In a chaotic opening 45 minutes at the Parc des Princes, both sides did just that.
It was fitting the two top-scoring sides in the Champions League this season put five goals on the scoreboard in a mesmerising, end-to-end opening period.
Harry Kane’s penalty was cancelled out by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s clinical finish, before Joao Neves’ glancing header and Michael Olise’s moment of individual brilliance left the sides level.
Many will suggest the PSG penalty, awarded after Bayern defender Alphonso Davies was deemed to have handled an Ousmane Dembele cross in the box, was harsh. Dembele calmly converted to give PSG a 3-2 lead at the break.
But the controversial incident was ultimately overshadowed by what pundits called one of the greatest halves of football they had ever witnessed.
Former England captain Alan Shearer said on Amazon Prime: “I can’t stop smiling at how open and bonkers this game is.
“It’s one of the greatest games I’ve ever been to. Two teams that believe in their own ability to outscore their opponent.”
The chaos continued after the break with PSG building a three-goal cushion, again through Kvaratskhelia and Dembele, leaving some to wonder if the outcome had been settled.
But Bayern were unwilling to let the chance of a first Champions League title since 2020 get away from them as they fought back in fearsome fashion.
Goals from Dayot Upamecano and Diaz were met with stunned silence from the home fans and no further response from the PSG players as the hosts finished with a slim advantage.
“I have been managing for more than 15 years, and I have to say it was the most exciting [match],” added Luis Enrique.
“It is important to show that that is the way to try to play football. OK, we are not happy as a coach when you concede four goals, but I’m happy because we won.”
It was the first time in any major European semi-final that both sides had scored at least four goals, and just the second time in a Champions League knockout match after Chelsea and Liverpool drew 4-4 in the 2008-09 quarter-final.
With PSG netting 43 goals and Bayern 42, it was also the first time two teams have each scored more than 40 times in a Champions League campaign.
Far-right mayor opposes plan for football team to lose stadium access due to 2030 Winter Games’ ice hockey.
Published On 28 Apr 202628 Apr 2026
French organisers of the 2030 Winter Olympics are looking at alternative locations for ice hockey outside of Nice, including Paris and Lyon, because of a political deadlock involving the coastal city’s new mayor.
Like the Milan Cortina Olympics, the French Alps project has split snow sports in storied mountain resorts and skating in a snow-free city, the Mediterranean resort of Nice.
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Nice was to turn the city’s football stadium, Allianz Arena, into a temporary hockey rink.
But Nice’s newly elected far-right mayor, Eric Ciotti, opposes the plan, refusing to allow the resident football club to lose access to its stadium for months because of the games. Ciotti, a former conservative allied with the National Rally party of Marine Le Pen, was elected last month.
The 2030 Games organisers said on Tuesday they have worked with officials from Nice and its wider region, as well as the French government, to find solutions for placing ice hockey within the Olympic hub in Nice. A temporary ice rink, intended as a replacement for the originally planned Allianz Riviera stadium, was studied at other stadiums, mainly for men’s hockey matches.
“Technical, scheduling, and financial analyses highlighted the limitations of these options, particularly due to their very high cost and impact,” organisers added.
“With a focus on efficiency and budget optimisation, the (organising committee) has decided to broaden its investigations by examining the use of existing facilities in other major metropolitan areas such as Lyon or Paris, particularly those offering a minimum seating capacity of 10,000,” they added.
Results of their explorations will be presented to the organising committee’s executive board on May 11. The final venues are expected to be confirmed in June when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) decides the list of sports and events.
“The analyses carried out are leading us to turn towards existing facilities that are better suited and more sustainable. Several options are being studied to ensure hosting conditions that fully meet our requirements,” said Edgar Grospiron, the former Olympic champion freestyle skier who leads the organising committee.
The Paris Entertainment Company, which operates Adidas Arena and Accor Arena in the French capital, said last week it submitted a bid to host ice hockey. Both venues were used during the 2024 Paris Summer Games.
French Alps Games organisers said a second competition ice rink for skating is still planned at Nice’s exhibition centre, and other ice events scheduled in Nice remain unchanged.
This deal from Wowcher means you could be enjoying the magic of Disneyland Paris, with the cost of the ferry and a two-night stay at a hotel close to the park, at under £200 per person
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This deal lets you visit Disneyland Paris for less than £200(Image: IAN LANGSDON/AFP via Getty Images)
Nothing beats the magic of a day at Disneyland, but it can be a costly choice just for the tickets alone. That’s why it often works out cheaper to book a deal that includes extras such as accommodation.
Wowcher has just launched a 4* Disneyland Paris Break which is now available to book that includes two-nights in a hotel, transport across the channel, and a one-day Disneyland Paris park entry for each guest, with prices that start at £189 per person.
You can check the availability calendar on Wowcher’s website to see the prices for each date. At the moment, the £189 deal is available in the first week of May with a 37% discount available. However, these dates are likely to sell out quickly, so you may need to snap them up soon.
Dates are available later in the year for November and December at around £249, and this can be an excellent time to visit the parks for the festive period. If you’re looking for summer holiday dates, then the last week in August is the cheapest, with dates from £309 per person.
Julie Delahaye
The package includes a stay at the 4* Paxton Hotel Paris MLV, just 10-minutes from the gates of Disneyland by car, which also offers a bus connection to the parks. The price also includes a return ferry crossing for a vehicle, and the drive from Calais to the hotel is just over three hours, mostly on motorways.
The one-day entry pass includes access to all attractions, shows, Character Encounters, parades, and more, so you can pack a lot into your trip.
Since the package has two nights in a hotel, you may also want to enjoy the onsite indoor pool, spa, and hammam, or even head to nearby Bussy-Saint-Georges station to get a train into Paris for some sightseeing. The city centre is about half an hour away by train.
If you’d rather stay onsite at the parks, you can book Disneyland Paris breaks via its official website, which gives you the option to stay in official Disney hotels. Staying in an official Disney property gives you perks such as early access to the parks and a quicker journey home at night, but it is a pricier option.
One night at the Disney Newport Bay Club in early May, with a two-day park pass comes in at £372.45 per person, and considerably more during peak times.
Another way to save money is to look for the deals that Disney offers throughout the year. For example, Walt Disney World in Florida has just relaunched its popular Free Dining offer, as well as offering up to £400 off breaks. This deal can be found on disneypackages.co.uk, and is available during most school holidays. This site also offers packages that include flights, making it easier to plan your trip.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
Michael Jackson’s famous clan stepped out to celebrate the premiere of the new “Michael” biopic, but some of the Jacksons snubbed the event and have opposed the film.
On Monday at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, several members of the Jackson family gushed about the Antoine Fuqua-helmed film, which depicts the origin story of the King of Pop and follows the hitmaker from childhood through his upward trajectory to superstar status in the 1980s.
Michael Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson, son of Jermaine Jackson, starred in the title role, and his aunts and uncles dropped accolades for his performance in red carpet interviews. Marlon Jackson said, “Watching the movie, sometimes we think we’re watching Michael up there, that’s how good he is.”
La Toya Jackson called his performance “absolutely excellent” and echoed Marlon, saying that she forgot she was watching Jaafar: “I thought I was watching my brother.”
But not all of the Jacksons were up for celebrating the film. Most notably absent were the “Beat It” singer’s pop star sister, Janet Jackson, and his daughter, Paris Jackson. The eldest of the siblings, Rebbie Jackson, also skipped the event. And although the film includes portrayals of many of the Jackson siblings, some also asked to be left out of the biopic, including Janet.
“I wish everybody was in the movie,” La Toya Jackson told Variety at the premiere. “She was asked and she kindly declined, so you have to respect her wishes.”
Last month, rumors began to swirl that the “All for You” singer attended a family screening of the film and wasn’t pleased. Page Six reported that Janet and Jermaine got into a spat, with Janet critiquing almost every scene.
At Monday’s premiere, “Entertainment Tonight” asked La Toya about the controversy, which she was quick to shut down. “There was absolutely no problem whatsoever, none whatsoever,” she said. “Please believe it.”
Although both of Michael Jackson’s sons, Prince and Bigi, have supported events for the film (Prince attended Monday’s premiere, and Bigi attended a Berlin premiere last week), and Prince served as an executive producer and was regularly on set, Paris Jackson has been vocal about her lack of involvement.
Last year, she posted on social media that she gave feedback on an early draft of the film, but her notes weren’t addressed. “I’ve left it alone,” she said. “It’s not my project, they’re going to make whatever they’re going to make.”
Paris Jackson, who works in the entertainment industry as a model, actor and musician, said she had stayed quiet about her feelings toward the “sugar-coated” project because she knew many people would be happy with it. “The film panders to a very specific section of my dad’s fandom that still lives in the fantasy,” she said.
“The thing about these biopics is, it’s Hollywood. It’s fantasy land. It’s not real, but it’s sold to you as real,” she continued. “The narrative is being controlled, and there’s a lot of inaccuracy, and there’s a lot of full blown lies, and at the end of the day, that doesn’t really fly with me.”
In earlier drafts of the “Michael” script, plot points included sexual abuse allegations brought by 13-year-old Jordan Chandler in 1993. Reportedly, the Michael Jackson estate became aware of a contract that legally barred the dramatization of the Chandler family and had to scrap parts of the script.
The film was originally set to premiere last year, but the production needed a new ending and weeks of reshoots to make the new iteration of the film work. In the version that hit theaters this week, “Michael” concludes in 1988, with a teaser for a potential Part 2.
Colman Domingo and Nia Long, who portray Michael Jackson’s parents, Joe and Katherine Jackson, appeared on “Today” this week and addressed the elephant in the movie theater.
“The film takes place from the ‘60s to 1988, so it does not go into the first allegations,” Domingo said. “Basically, we center it on the makings of Michael. So it’s an intimate portrait of who Michael is … through his eyes. So that’s what this film is.
“And there’s a possibility of there being a Part 2 that may deal with some other things that happen afterward,” he continued. “This is about the making of Michael, how he was raised, and then how he was trying to find his voice as an artist and be a solo artist.”
Long added that there might be a sequel, “if the price is right.”
The actor is pregnant with her third child, the first with partner Tanguy Destable. The Oscar winner told Harper’s Bazaar that she and Destable, a French music producer who goes by the stage name Tepr, are “very excited.”
“I’m just very grateful,” she told the outlet. “I know it’s such a privilege and a miracle.”
Portman, 44, said that she grew up hearing about how difficult it can be to become pregnant. As the child of a fertility doctor, the actor said she has many loved ones who’ve struggled in their journey and she wants to be considerate and respectful. “I know how lucky it is,” she continued. “I’m very aware, and I’m very grateful. I have deep appreciation and gratitude.”
The “Black Swan” actor has two children from her marriage to ex-husband Benjamin Millepied — a son Aleph, 14, and daughter Amalia, 9 — and told Harper’s that knowing this is “probably the last time,” she is cherishing every moment.
The actor also said she’s been enjoying the spring weather in Paris, where she has lived on and off for years. One other perk of being pregnant in Paris? “In France, they consider full term to be 41 weeks rather than 40, so I guess I get an extra week to be pregnant this time around.”
Portman split from Millepied in 2024 after more than a decade of marriage. The two met on the set of Darren Aronofsky’s 2010 film “Black Swan.” Millepied — a former principal dancer with the New York City Ballet — served as a choreographer on the movie. In 2023, French outlet Voici claimed Millepied had an extramarital affair with a climate activist. Shortly after, Portman quietly filed for divorce in Paris, where the two lived.
Last year, she told Jimmy Fallon during an appearance on “The Tonight Show” that an unexpected encounter with Rihanna at Paris Fashion Week in 2024 helped get her through the split.
“I think every woman going through a divorce should get to have Rihanna say to her that she’s a bad b—,” she joked to Fallon. “It was exactly what I needed.”
Fallon played a clip of the actor’s exchange with the “Diamonds” hitmaker in which Rihanna hugs Portman and says, “You are one of the hottest b— in Hollywood forever.”
Portman replies, “Excuse me? I’m going to faint.”
Portman has been romantically linked to Destable since March 2025.
EMILY has been to Paris (obviously), the Alps, St Tropez, Venice, Rome – and now, it looks as if she’s off to Greece.
According to show creator Darren Star, filming is expected to take place across Greece and Monaco with production starting as soon as next month.
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Emily in Paris is going to Greece – islands like Santorini are one of our favouritesCredit: GettyKara loves the Royal Senses Resort & Spa in CreteCredit: Kara Godfrey
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With the cast members like Lily Collins set to jet off to Greece, we’ve put together our favourite islands with top resorts and world’s prettiest villages…
Crete
As an anti-fly-and-flopper, you know a hotel is good when even I’m tempted to just stay there the whole time.
Over on the west side of Crete, I spent a blissful few days at the family-friendly Royal Senses Resort & Spa.
The sprawling resort had me sold instantly with the massively long heated swimmingpool, as well as the adult-only spa section with day beds and hot tubs.
I had way too much fun travelling on the private hotel funicular every day up to my two-storey suite (that made me feel like I’d stepped into a Selling Sunset property).
Maldives floating breakfasts, live music at dinner, it was serious luxury without having to spend too much – rooms start from around £146 a night.
If you really do want to explore, this side of the island has some beautiful little spots, such as Margarites – a small village known for its ceramics – or Rethimno, a coastal city perfect for market shopping and cocktails.
– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor
A feeling of zen still wafts over me when I look back on my visit to Crete, around eight years ago.
Mum and I were staying in the sleepy town of Agios Nikolaos, on the east coast of the island, in a rugged and airy resort whose white-washed walls were contrasted by large pots of fuschia-coloured roses and climbing vines.
The hotel was a short wander to the main port, where terracotta-roofed houses overlook sparkling waters lined by authentic restaurants serving properly delicious tzatziki and Greek salads.
Gioma Meze is nestled into the cliff-face and whips up all the classic mezze dishes in a fuss-free setting.
From this port you can hitch a boat over to the teeny island of Spinalonga, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It once operated as a leper colony in the early 1900s and has a fascinating story to tell – much of its stony fortress remains intact.
– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor
Sophie loves the chilled out vibes of CreteCredit: Sophie Swietochowski
Feeling inspired? Here are some other Greece holidays…
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Blue Bay Beach Resort, Rhodes
The four-star Blue Bay Beach Resort sits a stone’s throw away from this beach, and has its own pools, splash park and water slides. Here you’re only a 15-minute drive away from Rhodes Old Town, where UNESCO-listed medieval streets wind through castle-like architecture. Make sure to check out the Street of the Knights, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe.
Gouves Bay Hotel keeps things simple on a sunny Greek island location right by the sea. This hotel has a relaxed, family-friendly feel with two pools, a kids’ club and easy all-inclusive dining. And if you fancy a change of atmosphere, Gouves’ bars and tavernas are just a short walk away for your choice of evening drinks with a view.
The picturesque hotel is perched up high and surrounded by lush greenery in the historic harbour town of Kos. Here you’ll find a huge swimming pool and a waterpark, as well as activities like darts, tennis, football and more. There’s evening entertainment six days a week, and an on-site spa with a hot tub and sauna to unwind.
This mega resort with six pools and its own waterpark is rated five stars by TUI. In the main restaurant, you’ll see show cooking displays as you take your pick from an extensive international buffet. Plus, Kalives beach is on the doorstep of this hotel, with its strikingly blue water and soft golden sands.
Mykonos is known for being luxe with sleek beach clubs and designer shopsCredit: Alamy
Mykonos
Being one of the most expensive islands in the Cyclades, Mykonos oozes glamour and luxury from its exclusive resorts to sleek beach clubs.
But it still has the charm of Greece with its classic white architecture, lime-coated trees and stone pathways all perfectly framed by bright pink bougainvillea.
Chora Town is beautiful and has lots of boutique shops selling elegant dresses, designer handbags and it is fun to window shop – or splash out if you wish.
There are 16 windmills on Mykonos and seven are on the hill in Chora which at sunset makes for an incredible photo.
If you’re lucky, you might spot several of the island’s pelicans walking about too.
They’re a mascot of the island, starting with the original, Petros who roamed the island for 30 years.
– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter
Kefalonia
My very first Greek island holiday is still my favourite – when I took my son, then three years old, to the stunning Kefalonia.
The island in the Ionian Sea — a Hollywood star in its own right thanks to the 2001 film version of Louis de Bernières’ wartime novel — ticked all the boxes and boasts what is often claimed as Greece’s best beach.
We spent a week on the island in mid-May and enjoyed everything it had to offer — without spending too much money.
Our timing (outside of school holidays) meant we were one of the few tourist groups on the island.
The weather was still perfect though. The average is highs of 21C in May and the same in October. There were no crowds, either.
So we were eating al fresco at top seafront restaurants without needing to make a booking.
On my favourite day, we picnicked at Myrtos Beach with huge Greek tomatoes, spanakopita, feta and hunks of bread with olive oil.
In a post lunch dip at what is regularly named one of Greece’s top five beaches, we were the only people in the sea.
– Caroline McGuire, Head of Sun Travel (Digital)
Head up high in Santorini to get views of the calderaCredit: Alice Penwill
Corfu
I’m convinced I’ve found the most underrated spot in Corfu.
Sidari sits on the northern tip of the island, and is often overlooked by those heading to popular resorts like Kavos or Corfu Town.
Sidari has some of the most stunning beaches I’ve seen. The Canal d’Amour is a dramatic sandstone cliff split in two to reveal a tiny beach, with pretty turquoise waters and caves to explore.
A short walk away you’ll find a main strip lined with affordable restaurants that feel super high-end.
Savannah Seaside offers amazing fruity cocktails and delicious flame-grilled skewers in a tropical beach club setting, plus there’s plenty of spots serving gyros and fries for €3.
Plus hotels in this region are mind-bogglingly affordable. I stayed in the Eleni Apartments with TUI, who offer week-long breaks there including return flights from £297.
So if you want a Greek island holiday with plenty of sea views, fruity cocktails and delicious gyros – but without the Mykonos prices – give Sidari a try.
– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter
Santorini
Santorini is just as beautiful in real-life as it is in all those posts on Instagram.
The clifftop village of Oia on the northern tip of the island is the most famous where you’ll see the three blue dome churches across the skyline.
It’s even been called one of the most beautiful villages in the world.
Yes, it’s busy. So if you want to avoid the crowds then I’d suggest going in shoulder season like I did in May.
In saying that, you do still have to dodge tourists for a good photo and walking down lively Nikos Monikos Street was particularly cramped.
But it’s all worth it for when you get a small gap in the streets between villas and get a glimpse of the sparkling Aegean Sea.
If you want peace and quiet, and stunning views, head up to the Venetsanos Winery.
Not only does it offer wine tastings, there are unbeatable views across the Santorini caldera.