A BRIT R&B singer has quietly welcomed her second child with her music producer husband.
Cleo Sol, 38, surprised fans when she revealed she had given birth to another baby, after keeping her pregnancy a secret.
Singer Cleo Sol has revealed she has welcomed her second babyCredit: Instagram/gyallikecleeThe singer surprised fans with her baby announcement after keeping her pregnancy secretCredit: Instagram/gyallikeclee
The singer revealed that she and her record producer husband Inflo, real name Dean Josiah Cover, are now settling into life again as parents with a newborn.
Cleo, who shot to fame in the noughties, revealed her happy news on Instagram.
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She posted a slew of photos which started with her pregnancy bump, and ended with her holding her newborn baby.
Cleo captioned the sweet snaps with: “Out of words right now, but grateful.”
The singer shared her baby news with a slew of pics from her pregnancy journeyCredit: Instagram/gyallikecleeCleo ended her carousel of pics with a sweet snap of her holding her newborn babyCredit: Instagram/gyallikeclee
The star’s fans rushed to share their joy at her happy news, with one writing: “Congratulations Angel!!”
Another said: “Happy for you sista!! Blessings to your beloved family!!”
A third commented: “Omg omg! Congratulations the family is growing!”
The singer and husband Inflo first became parents in 2021, when they welcomed their first baby.
Cleo shot to fame in the noughtiesCredit: GettyAfter ditching fame for a decade, the singer has returned to the music sceneCredit: Getty
Cleo shot into the spotlight in the noughties, and was known for hits like When I’m In Your Arms, Promises, Why Don’t You, and Life Will Be.
Before finding fame, the singer would upload her music to MySpace.
In 2008, Cleo got her big break when Tinie Tempah asked her to sing the chorus on his song Tears
Following this, she got a record deal and started making music of her own.
However, by 2013, Cleo decided she no longer wanted to be in the spotlight and retreated from fame.
“I wasn’t happy,” she admitted in an interview in 2019, when she returned to music.
“And I was attaching my happiness to my music, so I wanted to quit music completely.
“Which still makes me sad when I think about it.” For four years, she retired from music entirely.
“I wasn’t being true to myself, and I was listening to everyone else’s advice on my career other than myself.
“I had lost faith in myself. I didn’t know how to pick myself up again.”
However, after returning to the R&B scene seven years ago, Cleo continues to make music with her husband and also perform.
Sixpence None The Richer have cancelled their tour following Justin’s (right) deathCredit: GettyThe band won’t be going on tour as plannedCredit: Getty
They confirmed online that they had decided to take some time out to “grieve” following the saddening news and and as such would not continue with their current touring plans.
The band said in a post online: “We are completely heartbroken over the tragic and untimely loss of our bandmate, brother-in-arms, and friend for 30 years, Justin Cary.
“The past three years had been full of international tours, recording new music, and an even further deepening of the joy of making music together.
“We were looking forward to connecting with new and old fans around the world this summer and fall, but for now we need time to be still and grieve.
SCISSOR SISTERS added some Spice to their set supporting Duran Duran – by inviting Melanie C to join them on stage.
Gushing over landing Sporty Spice as a special guest at the BST Hyde Park Festival on Sunday, frontman Jake Shears said: “We love Melanie C, she’s always been the loveliest person.
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The Scissor Sisters supported Duran Duran at BST Hyde Park on SundayCredit: GettyThe group invited Mel C to join them on stage at the festivalCredit: Getty
“She loves what she does, she’s a killer singer, so we’re so happy she could join us.
“We’re all big show ponies!
“We’ve had a blast.”
Jake told the audience he still can’t believe the group are still going strong and selling out arenas this far into their career, adding: “It’s been 25 years for us this year, and we’ve gone from literally singing along to CDs to being a fully fledged band in that time.
“Showmanship takes a long time to learn, as does enjoying yourself on stage.
“Our favourite moments on stage are when we achieve a sense of, ‘What the hell is going on here?’”
Reflecting on their sometimes chaotic live shows, Jake spoke of a particularly memorable performance with the late Dead or Alive singer Pete Burns.
He recalled: “One of our best collaborations has to be in the early days with Pete.
“He was such a special, special human being.
“He was a fierce, amazing character – in stilettos – and we like that, we like a little bit of chaos.
“That show was dangerous, scary, and fun.
“We look back at those times and feel like that was another era, those are people that are gone now.
“It’s very special to know we could do that with someone we looked up to before even becoming a band.”
CAUGHT LIVE: LONDON ROCKED BY METALLICA
Metallica are still at the top of their gameCredit: Getty
FOR a band 45 years into their career, Metallica were still full of life as they tore through the final night of their three-year M72 World Tour.
The rockers turned London Stadium into a theatre on Sunday with an in-the-round stage in the centre of the venue as part of their “no repeats” weekend.
They also played there on Friday night but vowed there would be an entirely different setlist.
That meant they didn’t play many of their hits, but still had plenty of material to keep going for over two hours.
The gig fell on the one-year anniversary of the Back To The Beginning concert at Birmingham’s Villa Park, which the band performed at and where Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne played for the final time.
Honouring the late rocker as his widow Sharon watched on from the crowd, they covered the Sabbath epic, Electric Funeral.
Ending on their biggest UK hit Enter Sandman, it was clear Metallica are still at the top of their game.
★★★★☆
NICK: I ALMOST BECAME MONSTER
NICK JONAS almost went by a pseudonym when he launched his solo career and planned to release music under the odd moniker, Monster.
The Jonas Brothers star admitted he felt wounded when the group first split in 2013 amid declining record sales, and he was anxious about putting music out under his own name.
Recalling a conversation with David Massey, former boss of Island Records, Nick explained: “I was, at this point, so discouraged by all the things that were happening, the fact that music wasn’t really connecting with the brothers.
“Obviously the band broke up. I disguised my insecurity and vulnerability. I was, like, ‘I just want to go under a pseudonym and not be that guy any more and try to do something different’.
“And David was, like, ‘But don’t you want to be the biggest artist in the world?’”
Recalling the strange names he came up with, Nick, inset – who later had solo success with the hits Jealous and Close – added on the Unfamous with Justin Tranter podcast: “I tried to think of something, but every time I had something that felt maybe close to right, I was, like, this is so dumb.
“I was, like, what am I doing? I think one was Monster or something.”
Thanks a bunch, Sara
Sara Cox left her Radio 2 breakfast show with flowers just after 10amCredit: Simon Jones
SARA COX kicked off her tenure as the host of the Radio 2 breakfast show by blasting out Lizzo‘s About Damn Time just after 6.30am.
Full of beans, she was congratulated on air over her new job by Hollywood star Tom Hanks, before leaving the studio with flowers just after 10am.
It sounds like Sara’s taking it old school with a new feature called SurpRise And Shine, where she will phone up listeners who have to answer with a specific phrase to win a special prize – either orange socks with her face on or a Sara-branded toothbrush.
One person who definitely wasn’t listening to Sara’s debut though was sacked host Scott Mills.
His husband Sam Vaughan posted a rare story on Instagram which showed he had snubbed the show and was tuning in to Heart Radio instead.
Can’t say that I blame him . . .
COLE’S KEEPING US COLE’D
HIS England teammates got us hot and bothered with that thrilling victory over Mexico at the World Cup.
But Cole Palmer – who was not picked for the Three Lions squad – kept fans nice and cool back home.
The Chelsea ace’s ice brand, Cole’d by Cole Palmer, in partnership with GoPuff, was a huge hit on TikTok ahead of the match on Sunday with site visits up over 200 per cent as fans stocked up on cubes to cool down drinks.
Fans have jumped on the trend with one writing: “Other players melt under pressure. Cole Palmer just brings his own Cole’d ice.”
A spokesperson added: “Demand for Cole’d Ice has continued to grow and we expect another busy evening on Saturday for the Norway game.”
Watch out Erling Haaland, we’re coming for you.
Hot Tyla, so cool
The South African singer took to the stage at Afro Nation festival in Portugal at the weekend wearing this miniscule white topCredit: Afro Nation Portugal 2026 @afronation HD
IF this heatwave carries on, I might have to start dressing like TYLA just to stay cool.
The South African singer took to the stage at Afro Nation festival in Portugal at the weekend wearing this miniscule white top and the tiniest of black miniskirts.
She is gearing up to release her second studio album A*Pop on July 24, which includes her recent singles Chanel and She Did It Again featuring Zara Larsson.
I’ve got a sneaking suspicion we can expect a tour announcement in the not-so-distant future, too.
Tyla was forced to cancel her first headline tour in 2024 due to injury, but she was back on stage last year and is earning rave reviews for her festival sets.
I’m keeping my fingers crossed it isn’t long until she’s back here in the UK.
Shania ends in Styles
Shania Twain and Harry Styles pose backstage at his record-breaking Wembley Stadium residencyCredit: instagram/shaniatwaian
HARRY Styles had a smile on his face and the Three Lions on his chest before taking to the stage for the 12th and final night of his record-breaking Wembley Stadium residency.
He posed backstage with Shania Twain, who has been opening for him at the shows, which have been seen by almost one million fans.
Writing on Instagram after the concert – where fellow singer Kylie Minogue and actress Rosamund Pike were spotted in the audience – Shania said: “Thank you again @harrystyles for the memories. You have the greatest fans! Leaving London with an overflowing cup – happy and grateful.”
MADONNA’s Confessions II is now outselling the rest of the Top Five combined in the UK album charts, as it races to become her first No1 record in 14 years.
It came out on Friday and is also on track to land two singles in the Top 40 – Danceteria and her Sabrina Carpenter collab, Bring Your Love.
SINGER Lauren Bennett, who featured on the global smash hit Party Rock Anthem, has died aged 37.
The beloved Brit, formerly a member of American girl group G.R.L, was remembered as a “beautiful spirit” who “touched so many lives” by her old bandmates.
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Brit singer Lauren Bennett has died aged 37Credit: Refer to source
In a joint statement, they wrote: “It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren.
“Our hearts are broken, and we cannot begin to express how much she meant to us.
“We will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories she gave us.
“Her beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved.”
Lauren with G.R.L. bandmates Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton and Paula Van Oppen in 2015Credit: Getty – ContributorThe Brit has been remembered for her ‘beautiful spirit’Credit: Getty
“Rest peacefully, sweet Lauren. You will always be in our hearts. Your GRLS, Em, Tash, and P.”
Lauren shot to stardom as a member of The Paradiso Girls in 2007.
The group, a European spin-off of the Pussycat Dolls, disbanded in 2010 after their singles flopped in the charts.
But Lauren would go on to force a successful solo career, featuring on a remix of will.i.am’s I Got It from My Mama and later collaborating with CeeLo Green on Love Gun.
The highlight of her career came in 2011, when she featured on LMFAO’s worldwide No1 hit Party Rock Anthem, cementing herself as the next up-and-coming star.
More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online
Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.
TO the untrained eye, he was just a bloke in a shiny police helmet singing about staying at the YMCA.
But behind the tight trousers and macho character in disco group Village People, Victor Willis was a musical hitmaker who co-wrote songs that will provide the soundtrack to every wedding, birthday and office party for years to come.
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Victor Willis (pictured bottom-centre) died after a short, aggressive illness, his family confirmedCredit: GettyDonald Trump stands next to Victor during a rally the day before the now-President was scheduled to be inaugurated for his second termCredit: Reuters
“It is with profound sadness that I must announce the death of my husband,” she said.
“Victor passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, as a result of a short but aggressive illness.”
Long before he was commanding crowds to put their hands in the air to anthems that defined an era, including YMCA, Go West and In The Navy, Victor was singing gospel music in his Baptist minister father’s church.
He grew up in San Francisco and his high school band, The Ballads, supported The Temptations.
He sat in on sessions with American jazz trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, before becoming an actor and singer.
A role in the Las Vegas production of musical Hair earned him a place in Broadway productions of Two Gentlemen Of Verona and The Wiz.
In the late Seventies, he caught the attention of flamboyant French producer Jacques Morali, who was creating a musical group based on the macho stereotypes and gay pin-ups of New York’s Greenwich Village.
Victor and Karen Huff-Willis in 2009 in San Diego, CaliforniaCredit: GettyVictor with first wife, future Cosby Show star Phylicia RashadCredit: Getty
Their four-track demo, called The Village People, earned the group a record deal, and Jacques asked Victor to become the frontman.
While the rest of the line-up were recruited from dance studios and clubs for the roles of the cowboy, the Native American, the biker, the construction worker and the soldier, Victor was thought to be the only straight member.
After albums Macho Man in 1978, and Cruisin’ in ’79 which gave us YMCA, they put out Go West and its title track became a gay anthem, later covered by The Pet Shop Boys.
It also featured In The Navy, which the US Navy co-opted for a recruitment campaign, before realising they were using the ultimate camp parody.
It was around then that Victor met and married his first wife, future Cosby Show star Phylicia Rashad.
They split in 1982.
After battling growing frustrations within the group, Victor walked out in 1979.
But his departure triggered a downward spiral.
He struggled to escape the group’s flamboyant reputation and establish credibility on his own.
His 1979 solo project, Solo Man, remained unreleased for more than 30 years until 2015.
Pop group Village People pictured in London in July 1980Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdTrump dances to Village People’s YMCA at a rallyCredit: AP
The Eighties and Nineties became a blur of substance abuse, addiction, and brushes with the law.
In 2015, he said: “I got very depressed over the years.
“I got kind of drugged out, because I was disappointed with the way things were and got frustrated, and gave up for a bit.”
He began to turn things around in 2006 after he received court-ordered substance abuse treatment and completed three years of probation.
After getting clean, he turned his energy towards a battleground between him and ruthless record executives who had pocketed the lion’s share of the royalties from the Village People’s catalogue.
This led Victor to meet his second wife Karen, an attorney who helped him fight his copyright case against the companies who controlled Village People’s hits.
They married in 2007.
Victor, armed with a gritty determination, launched a historic, multi-year lawsuit under a loophole in the 1976 US Copyright Act, which allows artists to reclaim their work after 35 years.
In a legal victory that sent shockwaves through the music industry, the US courts ruled in his favour in 2013.
Willis co-wrote and sang on a string of disco classics including YMCA and Macho ManCredit: GettyVillage People frontman Victor Willis passed away aged 74Credit: Jam Press
Victor clawed back up to 50 per cent of the lucrative copyright percentages for YMCA and his other hits, becoming a hero to older musicians everywhere.
The resolution paved the way for his return to the group in 2017.
Older, wiser, but with that same thunderous voice, he toured the world to packed arenas, watching three generations of families throw their arms in the air to spell out those four famous letters.
“I don’t endorse Trump, I’ve never endorsed Trump, nor have the Village People,” he told the BBC in 2020.
However, he surprised fans last year by agreeing to take part in the politician’s second inauguration saying: “Our song YMCA is a global anthem that hopefully helps bring the country together after a tumultuous and divided campaign where our preferred candidate lost.”
In his tribute yesterday, Trump claimed: “He was a great and happy guy who loved that I used YMCA at my rallies.”
NE-YO and Akon fans have been left feeling furious after their concert started two hours late – and the stage was still being built as they arrived.
The Grammy award-winning hitmakers are undertaking their global tour but some fans said it was past their bedtime before one of their gigs even began.
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Ne-Yo and Akon fans have been left feeling furious after their concert started two hours late – and the stage was still being built as they arrivedCredit: GettyThe Grammy award-winning hitmakers are currently undertaking their global tour but some fans said it was past their bedtime before one of their gigs even startedCredit: TikTok/@vanessa.francone
The much anticpated Nights Like This concert was advertised as starting at 8pm but at 10pm the organisers were still testing the equipment and setting up the stageCredit: GettyHundreds of ticket holders were not allowed into the lower floor while the organisers were lifting heavy speakers for health and safety reasonsCredit: GettyFans explained it was past their bedtime and they wanted to go homeCredit: GettyThe show eventually started at 10:45 and ended at 12:45 in the morningCredit: Getty
Another added: “And their audience is definitely 30-45, we are going to bed.”
A third said: “Right it’s past my bedtime already. Lol.”
A fourth wrote: “I’d be going home.”
A fifth explained: “I’d ask for a refund!”
While a sixth exclaimed: “How disrespectful. You pay for a show to be at a specific time. I’d want a refund!”
A seventh wrote: “Ye-No I’m leaving.”
However, another fan posted an update shortly afterwards and explained that the show eventually started at 10:45 and ended at 12:45.
She said: “People were on the floors. 100s were not allowed to sit until the stage was completely set up (safety).”
A fan replied: “My best friend had surgery 2 weeks ago and was so sore from having to stand for so long.”
Another said: “Oh heck no, I would have raged having to wait that long to be let in! Would have left honestly.”
While a third said: “Yeah i was kind of p***ed cause i wasn’t allowed to my floor seat until 10:45!!! It was a good show.”
MADONNA is being lined up to make a superstar appearance at London Pride on Saturday.
She has long been a celebrated figure in the LGBTQ+ community, and kicked off Pride Month with a surprise showing in New York last month.
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Madonna is set for a superstar appearance at London PrideCredit: SplashFans don’t have long to wait until they can hear Madonna’s album Confessions IICredit: Instagram
London Pride, which is expecting 1.8million people, will take place at locations across the centre of the capital, with acts including Beth Ditto and MNEK booked to play the main stage in Trafalgar Square.
And my music moles have told me that is where they are expecting Madge to pop up.
My insider explained: “Madonna is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has been a very vocal campaigner for decades.
“Organisers are playing it by ear in case of any last-minute changes but as it stands, Madonna is primed to come out on the main stage.
“She isn’t going to be performing like she did in New York. It’s more her coming out, speaking to the crowd and then heading off.
“They’re expecting absolute pandemonium if they pull it off.
“But it would be incredible for everyone going to the Pride event in London.”
Madge has long been a celebrated figure in the LGBTQ+ communityCredit: GettyThe Queen of Pop has signed a huge new deal with TikTokCredit: instagram/madonna
Madge’s surprise 20-minute set in the Big Apple just weeks ago went down a storm with the crowds, who watched her sing Get Together live for the first time in two decades.
And fans don’t have long to wait until they can hear Confessions II, her latest album with producer Stuart Price.
Madonna has signed a huge new deal with TikTok, with the app streaming tracks from the record live tomorrow night from her VIP album launch party.
The hour-long broadcast will also see Madonna being interviewed about the making of the record, as well as playing a handful of her favourite songs from Confessions II.
It’s a big move for Madonna, after she revealed this week that she can’t stand social media, branding it “mesmerising and also soul-destroying”.
She told Vogue Italia: “Algorithms and artificial intelligence are the opposite of taking risks and to me that is the opposite of making art.”
Anything for us fans eh, Madge?
NICOLE’S PUSSYHAT DOLL
Nicole Scherzinger celebrates her 48th birthday on the beachCredit: Instagram/@nicolescherzinger
NICOLE SCHERZINGER is brimming with happiness in this sunhat as she celebrates her 48th birthday.
The Pussycat Dolls singer posed for a selfie at the beach on Monday.
Nicole is with her British fiancé Thom Evans in Hawaii, where she was born.
She said: “Last day at this age and she was feeling cute at sunset, back home at her fave beach.”
Nicole will begin rehearsals later this summer for the Pussycat Dolls reunion tour. UK arena shows start on September 29 in Birmingham.
BAD BUNNY COURTS OLD FLAME AT WIMBLEDON
Bad Bunny at Wimbledon with his ex, jewellery designer Gabriela BerlingeriCredit: Getty
BAD BUNNY has hopped back into his ex’s good books.
He has rekindled his romance with jewellery designer Gabriela Berlingeri, who was with him before fame arrived.
The Puerto Rican rapper played to more than 100,000 fans during two sell-out shows at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium at the weekend.
There in support was Gabriela, who has quietly been accompanying him on tour.
They met in 2017 and dated until 2022. She even appeared as a bride in the video to his 2022 single Titi Me Pregunto.
But he later got together with Kendall Jenner and they dated for 18 months.
Bad Bunny has had quite the glow-up in the past few years and he’s become one of the most-streamed acts in the world.
I’m sure Gabriela will now be the envy of millions.
BRITISH girl group Flo have found a superfan in K-Pop sensation Taemin.
Jorja Douglas, Stella Quaresma and Renee Downer met Taemin backstage at BST Hyde Park where they played on Sunday, after he requested an audience with them.
Brit girl group FLO have found themselves a superfan in K-Pop star TaeminCredit: Supplied
A source said: “Taemin absolutely loves FLO and thinks they’re brilliant. They talked about working on a collaboration together, which made Taemin’s day.
“They were laughing and joking around for ages before the girls offered to teach him the dance routine to their song, Leak It.”
LILY’S SITTING PRETTY
Lily Allen stuns in satin lingerie and tiny black shortsCredit: Henry RedcliffeLily clutches a bouquet of flowers as she brings her West End Girl tour to London’s O2 ArenaCredit: Henry Redcliffe
SULTRY Lily Allen actually has plenty to smile about despite her very public divorce from Stranger Things actor David Harbour.
The singer and actress wore satin lingerie and tiny black shorts when she brought her West End Girl tour to London’s O2 Arena at the weekend – and will return to the capital next week for a third gig at the venue.
Despite looking moody while sitting in a chair on stage, Lily found her smile again as she clutched a bouquet of flowers.
Lily has spent much of the year on the road and was back on stage in Dublin last night.
After a summer of festivals, she will fly to North America in September to play arenas there.
It’s clear Lily is chuffed with the show she has created, which sees her perform her West End Girl album in full.
She wrote on X: “Everyone on this tour is really working very hard to give people the best show we possibly can, and I’m extremely proud of it.”
SAM: I’M HOOKED ON FISH
Sam Smith says he is yearning to be a fishmongerCredit: Getty
SAM SMITH has revealed a yearning to be a fishmonger.
The Promises singer told the Dish from Waitrose podcast: “I’m still gutted I’m not a fishmonger. Honestly, I’m not just saying this.
“I was lucky as a kid. We used to go to Waitrose a lot – and the fish section, I just loved. I just like to handle fish. I don’t know, it felt very calming.”
Earlier this year I told that Sam had launched a TikTok account called Sam Served, which documents favourite meals.
And it’s all part of a ploy to get closer to the fish counter.
Sam said: “I was in San Francisco on tour and I was bored, so,I filmed myself eating and it’s just reignited the fishmonger in me.”
I’VE got a sneaky suspicion there may soon be a song featuring pop girls Zara Larsson and Jade Thirlwall.
The pair secretly had a studio session in Paris last week, after the Solidays Festival, where they were both set to perform, was cancelled due to bad weather. I have high hopes for whatever it is they come up with.
BOWIE TREASURE ON TOUR
David Bowie’s incredible archive of outfits, handwritten lyrics and photographs are going on tour for the first timeCredit: Unknown
DAVID BOWIE fans are in for a treat as the V&A Museum has announced today that his incredible archive of outfits, handwritten lyrics and photographs are going on tour for the first time.
David Bowie: On Tour opens at V&A Dundee in November, before heading to Blackpool, County Durham, Hull and Bristol, with more locations to follow.
The collection on Bowie features never-before-seen items including Polaroids for his make-up and costume fittings, a Ziggy Stardust-era acoustic guitar, unreleased projects, lyrics, performance notes and costumes from the singer’s final albums The Next Day and Blackstar.
WILL’S BRIEFS ENCOUNTER
Will Ferrell has been signed to model Skims men’s undiesCredit: Skims/Instagram
SEEING Will Ferrell playing golf in his underpants wasn’t on my wish list.
But Kim Kardashian signed the actor to model her Skims men’s undies – and it has certainly got us all talking.
Will appears in blue briefs for the new ad campaign, though he was in character as golfer Lonnie Hawkins from his new Netflixcomedy series, The Hawk, out July 16.
Kim said of Will: “His body says retired, his Skims say one more round. Built for men who still know they’ve got it.”
If you say so, Kim.
SHAGGY IS THE RIO DEAL
Shaggy performing at the Rock in Rio festival 2026Credit: SuppliedShaggy and showbiz reporter Freya FraserCredit: Supplied
THEY say never meet your heroes, but Shaggy has spent a lifetime doing exactly that.
He has no shortage of famous fans and everyone from Nelson Mandela to Michael Jackson has sung his praises.
In a chat with showbiz reporter Freya Fraser at Rock In Rio Lisboa festival in Portugal, he said of meeting the former South African president: “We were at an award show in South Africa and we’re at the same table.
“He just kind of says, ‘You’re doing really great stuff’.
“We had a great conversation. I’ve met a lot of other people. Michael Jackson was also a super-big Shaggy fan.
“That’s documented on YouTube, everybody sees that. I have actually performed twice for Pope Francis. Queen Elizabeth, we performed for her Jubilee. I met all my heroes, to be honest with you.”
Shaggy is not modest when it comes to his achievements, and he is pretty flashy with his lifestyle too, even if he reckons he isn’t.
He said: “I’m a very practical person, so I’m not buying cars I don’t drive because I’m always on tour. I never drive anywhere, somebody’s always driving me around.
“I’m not buying homes I don’t live in. I have two homes. I’m not buying five of them, you know, I’ll rent them when I need them.”
But he is humble when it comes to his career, which has seen 16 Top 40 hits including four No1s.
He said: “I’m not a genius, God gave me those. If I wrote them, I’d be writing one every week.”
CAUGHT LIVE
Central Cee @ Rock In Rio Lisboa
★★★★☆
Central Cee takes over the World Stage at Rock In Rio LisboaCredit: Supplied
CENTRAL CEE ticked Lisbon off his bucket list as he took over the World Stage at Rock In Rio Lisboa before headliner 21 Savage.
On what was the most rap-focused line-up in the festival’s 22-year history, the Londoner tore through a mammoth 21-track set, including Loading, Doja, and Band4Band.
Cench proved he is an international star as thousands of Portuguese fans rapped every word back to him.
The atmosphere could not have been more different from the night before, when Sir Rod Stewart, Cyndi Lauper and Joss Stone had fans swaying along to their anthems.
Staying true to his nonchalant persona, Central Cee – real name Oakley Neil Caesar-Su – asked: “We’re not in a rush, are we?”
And as he worked the crowd and whizzed through high-profile collaborations such as Did It First with Ice Spice and Dave’s Sprinter, I was getting treated like an A-lister.
Rock In Rio Lisboa pulled out all the stops for its guests, with one of the biggest hospitality areas I have ever seen.
The UK may have provided a lot of the talent on this occasion, but we could learn a thing or two from Portugal’s festival scene.
A BRIT music legend, 70, has been ‘admitted to hospital’ with a mystery illness as he reschedules gigs last-minute.
Bruce Foxton – the bassist and backing vocalist of The Jam – was set to play a gig in Kidderminster on Friday evening.
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A Brit music legend, 70, has been ‘admitted to hospital’ with a mystery illness as he reschedules gigs last-minuteCredit: SplashBruce Foxton was a member of The JamCredit: Rex
But in a post on social media, it was revealed Bruce had fallen ill and would have to reschedule the performance.
The post by AGMP Concerts read: “Due to illness, the Bruce Foxton concerts this weekend are being rearranged.
“Tonight’s concert in Kidderminster has now been cancelled. Tomorrow’s Lincoln show (Saturday 27th June) has moved to Friday 15th January 2027.
“Thanks for your understanding. We look forward to seeing you in the new year.”
Bruce had to cancel a performance in Kidderminster on Friday evening and reschedule one set for Saturday after falling illCredit: RexThe Jam had a whole host of hits in the late 70s and early 80sCredit: Getty
Meanwhile another post on X from a fan claimed: “Bruce’s show in Kidderminster tonight has been cancelled and not rescheduled due to the fact he has been admitted into hospital.
“Let’s hope it’s not too serious for this absolute legend.”
Bruce’s fans were quick to comment, with one writing: “Get well soon Bruce. Take a break sir, we’d prefer a happy healthy retired Bruce than a pushing himself to the limit to the detriment of his health Bruce.”
Another added: “Sending u my love Legend…TIME2RELAX NOW U WORKED YOUR A*** OFF….We have memories Bruce..enjoy your life now..we all love u and now time to enjoy your memories xx.”
A third commented: “Get well quickly Bruce. Such a great bass player, seen him in The Jam, Stiff Little Fingers and of course From The Jam.”
Bruce first came to prominence in the 1970s in The Jam before pursuing a solo career when the band broke up.
In 1990 he joined Stiff Little Fingers and was with the band until 2007, before he joined Rick Buckler and members of his tribute band, the Gift, to tour under the name From the Jam.
The Sun Online has reached out to a representative for Bruce for comment.
AFTER years of writing about politics, technology and the chaos of the modern world, Matt Bellamy wanted something different for Muse’s tenth album.
“The theme was to get back into mystery a little bit,” he says. “The mysteries of the universe, mysteries of spirituality and returning to the rawness of the unknown.”
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Matt, Chris and Dom are back with their tenth album, The Wow! SignalCredit: SuppliedThe veteran band in a photo shoot for their new albumCredit: Tim Saccenti
Inspired by the 1977 Wow! Signal — an unexplained radio signal from space once seen as possible evidence of alien intelligence — and a turbulent period in his personal life, the record finds Bellamy searching for meaning on both a cosmic and personal level.
“I’ve turned completely apolitical,” he admits. “It’s weird when you go through things in your personal life — the news just becomes an annoying noise.
“When your life’s going great, you get drawn into the news and what’s going on in the world.
“But when you’re actually going through something yourself, the news and politics just become a headache.
“I’m a little bit gloriously out of touch. I’ve normally been so in touch, my finger’s always been on the pulse, and a lot of the albums I’ve made talk about the rise of populism. But this album and my life for the last year-and-a-half has been different.”
“I’ve been through a separation involving two young kids,” he says carefully.
“I can’t really talk about the reasons behind it, but it was not your normal run-of-the-mill situation. I became a full-time single parent for a period of eight months.
“She’s doing a lot better now and she’s getting better, but it was an unusual situation to go through. It made writing the album so much easier.
“It’s hard to talk about what’s behind the album because I don’t throw people under the bus. And I don’t want my kids to grow up reading stuff.”
Bellamy, 48, is in London for band rehearsals and when we meet, he’s just back from the gym in a bid to shape up for the tour.
“I’m not that old,” he laughs. “But I met Mick Jagger at a party and I went straight in on the fitness. I was, like, ‘What is your secret?!’ He said when he was in his 30s, he started working out a few weeks before a tour.
The record finds frontman Bellamy searching for meaning on both a cosmic and personal levelCredit: Getty – ContributorDominic Howard, Matthew Bellamy and Chris Wolstenholme in LondonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
“By the time he got to his 40s, he was working out for the same length as the tour.
“If it was a three-month tour, he’d work out for three months before. And by the time he got to his 50s, he was just working out all the time, all year round.”
The 1977 Wow! Signal fascinates Bellamy because it remains unexplained and happened around the time the band members were born.
“The Wow! Signal is probably, to this day, still the most interesting signal that’s ever been seen in space,” he explains.
“It happened in 1977, which is basically within 12 months of all the band being born.
“Chris [Wolstenholme] and I were born in 1978 and Dom [Howard] in 1977, so I just thought it was funny that this little Wow! Signal appeared around the time we came into this world.
“I think this album was really me letting go a little bit and engaging with the unknown.
“What is this thing inside me, or all of us, that wants to not be alone? I don’t mean with a partner or friends. I mean this thing in the universe. At the moment, we appear to be so alone, and we have this drive, which you see through religion and science.
“Behind all of it, we just don’t want to be alone.”
That search drew Bellamy back to one of his formative influences.
“I grew up watching Contact, the Jodie Foster film from the 90s,” he says. “I used to read Carl Sagan’s books and that film really stayed with me.”
It has also led him into the world of AI.
He adds: “I’ve spent time in the tech world, in California’s Silicon Valley and the Bay Area, and I had some involvement in that world.
“I went to a private talk where Sam Altman (CEO of OpenAI) was talking off the record about his thoughts on AI.
“I saw (Meta CEO Mark) Zuckerberg talking about it, too, and I was interested in what they were saying.
“When you really hear them, they know they’re ushering in an intelligence which is beyond us. They start to see it as, ‘Well, we’re just kind of messengers bringing in this thing that is going to be more intelligent than us’.”
Matt, pictured performing at Reading festival, was brought back to one of his formative influences for the albumCredit: GettyThe new album also explores artificial intelligenceCredit: Getty – Contributor
Bellamy says he enjoys asking AI philosophical questions — and that is where Hexagons began.
“That’s actually my favourite thing to do with AI, and where I got the idea for Hexagons,” he says. “And again, I think that is part of the same human condition.
“Whether it be religion, looking for aliens in space or trying to bring in artificial intelligence, it’s kind of all the same thing.”
Epic, organ-led Be With You was the first song that made the album’s direction clear.
“You can look at it as a love song, or you can look at it as a religious song, almost,” he says.
“I’m not a religious person, but I decided to play the song on a church organ.
“I went to the biggest church organ in Los Angeles, so the song was recorded in this church-like setting.
“I liked the idea that it could be perceived as searching for alien life, or searching for alien intelligence of some kind, or God. That was the first song that felt right, lyrically and musically.
“There are a lot of personal elements in the album that are quite unusual for me.”
Bellamy says the album came from a difficult period, but that made the music flow.
“This was actually the easiest album for me to write and make for 15-plus years,” he says.
“Space Debris is probably the biggest reveal of what I went through, especially lyrically at the end,” he says.
“It’s the rawest moment of explaining what really happened over the last year. I like using space analogies — space debris, things breaking up and falling apart in gravity — to describe the chaos and feeling in your life.
“It also fits the theme of connecting this search into outer space for a higher power with the chaos and feeling in your own life.
“I hope the fans don’t ask me to play that one live.”
If Space Debris is the album’s rawest confession, Bellamy says it also opened the door to bigger questions running through the record.
“What I went through threw me off into the unknown,” he explains.
“When things go wrong in your life, that’s when you’re most likely to seek meaning or search for answers.
“In my case, it was a blend between religious thought, alien intelligence and AI.
“I don’t know what it is, but you’re searching for this higher power to guide you, or to give you answers.
“Music became my catharsis. It became my way to understand my situation.
“Making this album gave me flashbacks to these periods where music was my everything.
“It wasn’t something I had to do to pay the bills. It wasn’t something I had to do for the record label. It was something that I had to do for myself.
“That’s why I think this album is probably, since the 2000s anyway, the most raw, emotionally raw and honest album I’ve done.”
Bellamy says despite the personal nature of the album, Chris and Dom were central to every song.
“I’ve always been in charge of the lyrics, and I’m the leader in terms of the concepts,” he says.
“But musically, this is the most equal album we’ve had for a long time.”
The Wow! Signal includes some of the best tracks Muse have made in years.
Cryogen has already been compared to early Muse, while Shimmering Scars shows off the vulnerability in Bellamy’s voice.
“Cryogen is deliberately Muse from 2001,” he says.
With Shimmering Scars, he explains: “I felt like I needed to do five or six takes, so we could edit the best bits in.
“But producer Dan Lancaster was, like, ‘Nah, let it be raw, let it be weird.’
“To me, it sounded a bit off — not quite what I wanted it to be. But he was, like, ‘No, that’s the whole point. That sounds a little bit raw’.
“This is the first album where we said, ‘Let’s give Dan a go at producing it’. The last two albums were self-produced, so it was nice to hand the reins to someone else.
“He did a great job keeping us towards that more raw, vulnerable state in the performances.”
Bellamy believes AI is pushing younger listeners back towards authenticity.
“My stepson with Kate [Hudson], Ryder, is 22 and he’s just graduated from NYU,” he says. “Then Bing is 14, and I’ve got the two little ones as well.
“Having a boy who’s 22 and a boy who’s 14 means I get a real sense of what’s going on in their generation.
“I think that generation is turning away from pop, hip-hop and dance a little bit. They’re seeking raw, chaotic-sounding music.
“I think the reason why is because that generation is drowned by AI. AI is dominating everything they do, from schoolwork to music and the arts.
“I could be wrong but from what I sense from them, they’re gravitating towards what they know to be real.”
Recent single Nightshift Superstar was the band wanting to go French disco.
“I love Daft Punk, Justice and ABBA,” Bellamy says. “I went to see ABBA’s show and I loved it. They’re some of the best songs ever written. So after that and seeing Justice in Paris, I was, like, ‘How do we do that? Let’s just go there’.
“The song has a late-70s feel but with a more cutting-edge tone associated with modern dance music.
“But the good thing about it is that it really is us playing.”
One surprise on The Wow! Signal is Hush — a collaboration with pop star Ellie Goulding.
“Ellie was in the studio next-door, working with Marshmello on something,” says the singer.
“We have known each other for years and always wanted to try and do something together.
“Muse fans will read online that we’ve done a song with Ellie Goulding and think it’s going to be a pop song.
“But it’s got one of the biggest, heaviest riffs we’ve done in a long time. To me, it sounds a bit like New Born or something from 2001.
“The verses get a little bit poppy, I guess, but the main riff is pretty hard rock, so I thought it was quite fun to get Ellie’s voice over that kind of heaviness.
“I think it’ll be a nice surprise.”
Bellamy says the song came together by chance.
“This was an experiment,” he says. “It’s the only song on the album that really involves multiple writers.
“Ellie popped her head in towards the end of the day, at about 11pm, and went, ‘Hey, what are you guys up to?’ We played the song and she said, ‘Oh, can I sing on it?’ We tweaked the lyrics and turned it into a duet.
“It came completely by chance. It wasn’t planned to be a collaboration.”
Bellamy says the reaction from Muse fans to the new songs has “been the best we’ve had for at least 15 years” and he’s looking forward to getting back on the road following their special Brixton Academy show in April to launch the album.
The show marked Muse’s first appearance at the venue in 25 years, just before the release of Origin of Symmetry.
“I didn’t realise it had been so long,” Bellamy says.
“I remember the last time we played there, it was around the second album and I was so nervous because it was the biggest show Muse had ever done.
“We got to debut Be With You for the first time, and we had a great time.”
Visually, Bellamy says the full Wow! Signal world will come to life properly when Muse return to Europe in November.
“The American tour starts with what I’d call a medium-level production,” he says.
“But when we come to Europe, including London and Manchester in November, that’s when we’re going to ramp it up to a really sophisticated production.
“I think there’ll be a lot of geometry, a lot of hexagons, shapes and lasers, and strange, interesting visuals.
“Hopefully we’ll build the spaceship you see on the album cover in the arena.”
A HUGE Brit pop star has revealed his partner has suffered a devastating miscarriage.
Chart-topping British dance artist James Hype and his music artist partner Tita Lau shared their devastation after revealing their unborn baby has died just months into the pregnancy.
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Chart-topping British dance artist James Hype and his music partner Tita have suffered a devastating miscarriageCredit: instagram/@jameshypeJames first hit the UK music scene back in 2017 when his song More Than Friends became a smash hitCredit: AFP
Taking to Instagram on Wednesday afternoon, Tita shared a black and white snap of them hugging and wrote alongside it: “This week we thought we’d be sharing the happiest news of our lives. Sadly, life had a different plan for us.
“For the last two years, we’ve been trying for a baby. It hasn’t been easy, especially because James and I hardly see each other.
“We’d started planning our IVF journey & had meetings with multiple doctors. But just before we were due to begin, something felt different… I can’t really explain it, I bought a pregnancy test & called James literally 1000s of miles apart…Positive.”
She then shared how they went through a range of emotions before heading for their first scan and hearing the baby’s heartbeat.
Tita is also a DJ and praised James in her update on what had happenedCredit: instagram/@jameshypeThe couple have been together for six yearsCredit: instagram/@jameshype
Tita, who also tours the world as a DJ, added: “Keeping it a secret was so hard, especially while touring. The first trimester is literally no joke!”
But a few weeks later, Tita said she felt “something wasn’t right” and went to get checked at another scan and “That’s when our hearts broke.”
She continued: “We were told I’d had what’s called a missed miscarriage, most likely caused by chromosomal abnormalities. My body still believed it was pregnant, but our baby had stopped developing.
“I don’t think a day has gone by that I haven’t cried. I didn’t know what happened next. It’s not something I’d ever thought about, but the next day, I had surgery & just like that, everything we’d been dreaming about was over.”
She then paid tribute to her husband, saying: “I’m still recovering, both physically & emotionally & I know James is too. I honestly don’t know how I would have gone through this week without you. This has been the hardest thing we’ve experienced together.”
James then commented underneath the post: “Proud of you for sharing this. Believe that everything will work out the way it should.”
The couple recently celebrated their sixth anniversary together.
James first hit the UK music scene back in 2017 when his song More Than Friends became a smash hit.
He has since had hit songs with global artists such as Craig David, Kim Petras and Pia Mia.
A NOUGHTIES pop star looks unrecognisable 23 years after his controversial hit, as he braved the rain at a UK festival.
This US singer, now 54, shot to fame in a quirky Detroit rock band – but can you guess who he is?
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Can you guess who this noughties star is?Credit: TikTok/ @academymusicgroupThe singer’s band shot to fame over 20 years ago – seen here in the 90sCredit: Getty
The band launched into the spotlight in the early noughties, and were known for their controversial song Gay Bar.
The tune was released in June 2003, and lead singer Dick, who’s real name is Tyler Spencer, has now revealed how he came up with the song.
Speaking in the rain at Download Festival, he told the Academy Music Group: “The real story, I was in a rock and roll bar. Okay, and so there’s ambient noise, there are people talking, there are drinks clinking.
Dick Valentine from Electric Six talked about how he came up with their controversial song, Gay BarCredit: TikTok/ @academymusicgroupElectric Six are back on tour – seen here as they look nowCredit: instagram
“In the background, on the jukebox, right, you’re hearing the song that they’re playing in the jukebox, but you can’t quite make out the lyrics.
“The song on the jukebox was Girl You Want by Devo, where the lyrics are, ‘She’s just a girl, just a girl, girl you want.’
“Those are the lyrics, those are the actual lyrics.”
Continuing with his story, Dick said: “But I thought he was saying, ‘She’s just a girl, just a girl in a gay bar.’
Dick and his band had a huge amount of success in the noughtiesCredit: GettyElectric Six continue to perform live and are currently on a UK tourCredit: Getty
“And so I started singing that, and my friend was like, ‘No, no, no, what are you singing?’
“So then I’ve got this lyric now about a girl in a gay bar, right, I’ve got this, and it hasn’t been used, so now this is mine.
“So that was the genesis of it. It was just a misheard lyric in a pub, and it worked out really well for me!”
When Gay Bar was released over twenty years ago, the track certainly caused a stir.
While the song and music video got a lot of airplay the lyrics mentioning the Iraq war, which was ongoing at the time, were edited because they were perceived to have been offensive at the time.
Meanwhile, Electric Six shot to fame with their first single, Danger! High Voltage, which soared to No. 2 in the UK charts.
Along with Dick, the original line-up included Cory Martin on drums, Anthony Selph on lead guitar, Joe Frezza on rhythm guitar, and Steve Nawara on bass.
Over the years the band has experienced various changes in members, but Dick has always remained at the helm.
Electric Six continue to perform, and are currently on tour right now in the UK.
Electric Six Tour Dates 2026
This is where you can catch Electric Six on tour in the UK this year:
June 21: Portsmouth – The Gaiety
June 23: Preston – 53 Degrees
June 24: Wrexham – The Live Rooms
June 28: London – The 100 Club
Nov 23: Cottingham – The Civic Hall
Nov 24: York – The Crescent
Nov 25: Manchester – Club AcademyNov 27: Belfast – The Limelight
MYLES Smith reveals he was physically abused by his father in his heartbreaking debut album My Mess, My Heart, My Life.
The Luton-born star, who was raised by his mother Deborah, recalls his difficult childhood in emotional tracks My Mess and Grandma’s House.
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Myles Smith’s debut album My Mess, My Heart, My Life, delivers a powerful and honest record inspired by pain and life’s struggleCredit: GettyHeaven is sure to become a live staple for Myles, who has more than proven he can go up against the greats when it comes to writing about love and lossCredit: Splash
Created over the past three years, as Myles’ career went stellar thanks to his 2024 runaway hit Stargazing, the star takes his fans back to his beginnings.
Lead track My Mess reduced me to tears as Myles regaled his relationship with his father against a backdrop of an upbeat, acoustic guitar.
He sings, “I was born into a fractured family, where a word can start a war.
“Lost my tongue, when I spoke my peace, yeah he grabbed my shirt and he bruised my cheek.
“Sad a man had to go toe to toe with a boy thirteen.”
Emotion-packed Grandma’s House, where Myles, 28, recalls finding his safe space as his mum Deborah worked to make ends meet, is packed with emotion and reflection.
On the track he sings: “Take me back to my Grandma’s place.
“I was 7 years old when I learnt how to cook, and 10 when I started to sing.
“Oh she’d bring me to church, and she’d cover my ears, when my Dad would scream horrible things.”
Myles’ signature acoustic guitar underpins every track, with Hate You untangling the realities of navigating love and Sertraline seeing Myles exploring mental health and complexities surrounding it.
This is an album for the brokenhearted and the hopeful, with the beautifully worded Lifetime and the dreamy vocals on Heaven – which is my favourite song on the record – seemingly bringing Myles’ the happy ending he’s been searching for.
Over the past two years, Myles has grown in prominence – winning the Brit Awards Rising Star gong as well as earning an Ivor Novello Award for Stargazing.
To date Myles has amassed over 4.7billion streams worldwide and is one of our country’s most exciting new stars.
Opening up about the record, Myles said the album was born out of “therapy notes, old memories, relationships, insecurities, heartbreaks, mistakes and all the moments that shaped me.”
The latter half of the album moves towards a positive note, with Nice To Meet You and Gold showing Myles coming out on the other side.
Myles said: “It was important to end the album, and particularly this project on a high.
“I feel like I always try to mirror my music with my live shows and my live shows are always about taking people on an emotional journey and then sending you home happy.
“It is that sense of hope which lingers on as Gold closes the album.
“Even though I may appear miserable for a lot of this album, I genuinely always walk with hope and I walk with joy at the end of the day.”
Heaven, mark my words, will become a live show staple for Myles, who with My Mess, My Heart, My Life has more than proven he can hold up against the greats when it comes to writing songs about love and loss.
★★★★★
Lotts of stars at V&A
It was all-white on the night for Pixie Lott at the V&A Museum’s summer partyCredit: GettyMaya Jama also chose white to impressCredit: GettyJessie Ware sang live at the bashCredit: Getty
It was all-white on the night for Maya Jama and Pixie Lott as they stood out in these dresses at the V&A Museum’s summer party.
They were joined at the bash by model Leomie Anderson, in an open white suit with gold jewellery, Ellie Goulding sporting a blazer dress, and Sir Mick Jagger with his fiancee Melanie Hamrick.
Once inside the museum, in London’s South Kensington, guests got the chance to schmooze around the exhibits, while Jessie Ware sang live in a sequin gown.
With tickets flying for her autumn tour, they were lucky to see her.
But access to the fundraiser, for those who did pay, cost £3,999. That is one expensive night out.
Ellie Goulding was sporting a blazer dressCredit: GettyModel Leomie Anderson wore an open white suit with gold jewelleryCredit: Getty
KAISER CHIEFS frontman Ricky Wilson will play Teen Angel in Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical.
The show is being put on by Secret Cinema from July to September at Evolution London in Battersea Park.
Singer Ricky Wilson will play Teen Angel in Grease: The Immersive Movie MusicalCredit: Getty
Ricky, left, said: “At school I was in Grease. I was not yet the pop sensation I am today and I only really wanted to do it because I fancied the girl who played Frenchie,
“I was Doody, so this is my chance to show everyone I should’ve got a bigger part.
“I don’t believe anyone from that production is now a professional singer – so in short, I win.”
Sian’s up for toy techover
Capital Breakfast’s Jordan North and Sian Welby, above, have landed roles in Toy Story 5Credit: Getty
You will hear some surprisingly familiar voices in Toy Story 5 if you head to the cinema this weekend – as Capital Breakfast’s Jordan North and Sian Welby have landed roles.
They voice a garden gnome and inflatable flamingo in the long-awaited Pixar sequel, and mum-of-one Sian has high hopes for its impact.
Speaking about the film, which is about tech replacing toys, Sian, right, said: “I do think it’s going to start a massive conversation about screen time.
“It made me want to smash every bit of tech in my house and just get out in the grass and play all the games that I did growing up.
“I think a lot of us are going to watch it and feel guilt. It’s sad we have to grow up so fast because there’s so much magic when you’re younger.”
Best-selling novel One Day is coming to the West End as a musical.
The David Nicholls love story – which has previously been adapted for both the big and small screen – will premiere at London’s Garrick Theatre on November 17, following shows in Edinburgh earlier this year.
Tissues and jazz hands at the ready.
MNEK is back in reverse
MNEK is releasing his first album for eight yearsCredit: Maja Smiejkowska
MNEK is returning with his first album in eight years.
The singer has today released the single Reverse!!, which samples Lethal Bizzle’s Pow! (Forward) and will be on his Bulldozer record this autumn.
Also out now is Jax Jones’ Pulling Me Back, Tiny Habits’ Anything He Was featuring Matty Healy from The 1975 and Grow Down by Luca George.
Ahead of his opening night in Jesus Christ Super-star in London, Sam Ryder has released What’s The Buzz.
And to support England’s World Cup efforts, Kerry Katona has re-recorded Atomic Kitten’s Whole Again as Home Again to raise cash for kids in care.
She said: “Even if you think it’s s***, please download it so we can give back.”
TEDDY SWIMS says he is glad he was 30 years old before achieving global success – otherwise he could have gone off the rails.
The US star, whose single Lose Control sent his profile rocketing in 2023, said he doesn’t understand how younger stars like Benson Boone have coped with their early fame.
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Teddy Swims says he is glad he was 30 years old before achieving global success – otherwise he could have gone off the railsCredit: GettyTeddy said he doesn’t understand how younger stars like Benson Boone have coped with their early fameCredit: Getty
Teddy explained: “He’s crushing it at, like, 23. If they would have gave me that at 23, I would have sent that straight up my nose.
“Thank God it happened to me at the time it did and I’m capable of understanding this and taking it seriously.
“I’d have probably been so terrible about it. I’d have spun out immediately if I’d been given that at such a young age.”
Since then though, Teddy’s had further hits with The Door and Bad Dreams, but doesn’t let success get to his head.
He said: “I try not to hang up my diamond or platinum records in my house, because I feel like I’ll just be looking at them and be like, ‘My best days are behind me,’ or something.
“So I try just to keep my head down and keep rocking.”
Asked if they’re in storage, he confessed: “A lot of them I’ve given to my family on Christmas. It saves me a little money there too.
“You know, my aunt’s got The Door gold record from a year ago.”
A real beauty spot, Maya
Maya Jama is clearly feline fine as she turns up the heat in a skimpy leopard-print mini dressCredit: Shutterstock EditorialMaya flaunted her curves in a tiny bikiniCredit: Instagram
MAYA JAMA is clearly feline fine as she turns up the heat in a skimpy leopard-print mini dress.
The Love Island host sizzled as she fronted the dating show’s ITV2 spin-off Aftersun in the slinky number.
Maya, who previously dated grime star Stormzy, split from her Manchester City footballer boyfriend Ruben Dias in April after 18 months together.
But she clearly isn’t moping around, and has been on holiday in Ibiza, where she flaunted her curves in a tiny bikini.
Maya said of the break-up: “I’m an all-or-nothing girl, I don’t casually date, so yes, I will love loudly or not at all – and if it ends, it ends. I decided a long time ago not to base my life decisions on public opinions.”
Sounds like she’s got the dating game sussed.
Jack Whitehall has apologised to Becky HillCredit: GettyJack called her a ‘Wetherspoons Whitney’Credit: Getty
JACK WHITEHALL has apologised to Becky Hill for calling her a “Wetherspoons Whitney”, claiming the pair “had a chuckle” about his dig – despite her writing diss track Daddy’s Range Rover about him.
I revealed last month how Becky has penned the song all about him making her the butt of a joke while he hosted the 2024 Brits.
Jack says: “I think my biggest surprise is it’s taken so long for some- one to write a diss track about me. I apologised when I saw her.”
Becky doesn’t sound like she sees the funny side, however – blasting the “privately educated nepo baby”.
Jesy’s hol of a look
Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson celebrated her 35th birthday pondering what is coming next for herPerrie Edwards got married to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in Portugal over the weekendCredit: Refer to Caption
LITTLE MIX singer Jesy Nelson celebrated her 35th birthday pondering what is coming next for her.
Holidaying with friends, she mused: “Whatever will chapter 35 bring?”
Well, it is unlikely to bring a reunion with her estranged former bandmates.
Jesy was not a guest at Perrie Edwards’ wedding to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in Portugal over the weekend, after Perrie said Jesy made her “blood boil” by claiming she felt unsupported during a mental health crisis.
Whatever comes next, it’s going to be a page-turner.
LEAH LETS LOOSE IN IBIZA
Leah Williamson made the most of her break from the game by enjoying a wild girls’ trip to IbizaCredit: Getty
ENGLAND women’s football captain Leah Williamson made the most of her break from the game by enjoying a wild girls’ trip to Ibiza.
I’m told the Arsenal player let her hair down at the White Isle’s most legendary club Pikes last week.
Then on Friday night she let loose at Calvin Harris’ residency at superclub Ushuaia, where she partied with pals and her model girlfriend Elle Smith.
One onlooker told me: “Leah was having a great time doing shots with her mates – she was really living her best life.”
A calf injury meant she was ruled out of the last Lionesses squad, and it sounds like she is still feeling the effects as Leah wasn’t dancing as much as her mates.
But I reckon a blow-out in Ibiza might be just what she needs before getting her head back in the game.
FRESH off a collaboration with Ed Sheeran, Martin Garrix has teamed up with Madonna.
The Dutch DJ debuted Bizarre, one of the tracks from Madge’s highly anticipated Confessions II album, during a New York party.
From the clip I’ve heard, it sounds like an absolute beast.
ASTON: MY BOY’S READY TO HAVE BITE AT POP STARDOM
Aston Merrygold and son Grayson JaxCredit: InstagramThe JLS star with the children’s bookCredit: Supplied
JLS star Aston Merrygold reckons he could have the next Justin Bieber on his hands in the form of his talented eldest son.
He revealed that eight-year-old Grayson Jax is already showing serious star potential.
The Beat Again singer said: “My oldest is full-on – he’s ready, he wants to do everything. He’s so much better than I ever was. Little Justin Bieber on the way.”
While fans wait to see if another Merrygold is about to hit the charts, Aston is juggling life as a musician with being a hands-on dad to his three children and setting a good example.
The singer has teamed up with Bupa Dental Care to launch the kids’ story and audiobook The Dentist’s Apprentice, aimed at helping youngsters overcome fears over check-ups on their teeth.
Aston said: “The whole premise is about trying to get rid of dental anxiety that young people have.
“Having all that pent-up anxious energy is not healthy for anyone. The dentist is about check-ups, it’s about prevention.”
Aston will soon be back on the road with JLS for their UK tour.
They are playing eight more shows, ending in Derby on August 29.
What to do after writing some of this century’s most devastating songs about the torment of breaking up? Write some of this century’s most devastating songs about the ecstasy of getting together.
With her first two albums — 2021’s Grammy-winning “Sour” and 2023’s triple-platinum “Guts” — Olivia Rodrigo proved herself to be perhaps the most gifted of the many chroniclers of Gen Z romance to emerge in Taylor Swift’s wake. She could convey the hot sting of betrayal, as in her smash debut single, “Drivers License”; she could channel the injustice of watching an ex somehow carry on, as in “Good 4 U”; she could deliver a sick burn like somebody handing out Halloween candy, as in “Get Him Back!” (Because it deserves remembering: “He had an ego and a temper and a wandering eye / He said he’s six-foot-two, and I’m like, ‘Dude, nice try.’”)
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Yet on her thrilling third LP, “You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love,” Rodrigo, 23, turns to the pleasure that comes before the pain — and, in a feat very few in pop music are ever able to pull off, ends up with a number of first-flush-of-love songs as potent as any breakup tune.
She opens the album with “Drop Dead,” in which she compares a guy in line for the bathroom at a bar to an “angel on the walls of Versailles” — an early sign of how high the emotional ceiling is here. In “Stupid Song” she cycles through a series of metaphors to describe her lovesickness — she’s a car without a brake, she’s a heart made of melting wax — before finding a simpler but infinitely more vivid way of getting her point across: “You should feel how I feel when somebody says your name.” (Chills.)
“Maggots for Brains” is a song about how useless she becomes “when my baby goes away,” and let’s just take a second to savor the fact that Rodrigo is putting that title into the world less than four years after she was still a working Disney kid. The album’s next tune, “U + Me = <3,” is its high point: a euphoric promise of devotion that sounds like Sixpence None the Richer reborn as a Midwestern emo band. It’s got two young lovers carving their names into car seat leather, and it’s got a girl trying to impress her boyfriend’s older sister with her cynical humor and her taste in yacht rock.
More important, it’s got these lines of pure poetry: “They say modern love’s a cruel endeavor / And to that I say, F— it, whatever.” Kurt Cobain would be proud.
Working with her longtime producer, Dan Nigro, Rodrigo has expanded her stylistic palette to accommodate these new emotions; “You Seem Pretty Sad” pulls in chiming folk-rock and synthed-up new wave and even has a gorgeous wine-bar piano ballad, “Less,” that might put the scare in Rodrigo’s pal Laufey.
The cover of Olivia Rodrigo’s new album.
(Geffen Records)
The album is structured to trace the arc of a relationship, which means that the second half dips into the heartbreak we’re used to getting from Rodrigo. But she’s writing about familiar scenarios with new wisdom, drawing sophisticated conclusions about why people in love do the things they do (and don’t do the things they don’t).
In “The Cure,” which rides a strummed acoustic-guitar pattern that strongly recalls Smashing Pumpkins’ “Disarm,” she realizes a boyfriend can’t fix what’s broken inside her; “Begged” examines the limits of one partner’s willingness to look past the failings of the other. After hearing these songs, the happier ones at the beginning of the album reveal bits of shadow that Rodrigo has built into them to presage what’s to come — to presage what always comes.
It’s fitting, then, that Robert Smith of the Cure — perhaps pop’s most jubilant gloommeister — hovers over this LP like a patron saint: nodded to in “The Cure,” of course, but also “Drop Dead,” where Rodrigo name-checks the Cure’s classic “Just Like Heaven.” Smith himself turns up in “What’s Wrong With Me” for a duet with Rodrigo in which the two learn to accept that love, in the end, might be what kills them.
“My head is spinning and my stomach is sick,” they sing, and neither sounds like they’d have it any other way.
SIA has been spotted looking totally different after she ditched her signature wig and stepped out makeup-free at an LA farmer’s market.
In photos obtained by The U.S. Sun, Sia was seen out and about with her two-year-old, Somersault Wonder.
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Singer songwriter, Sia, stepped out to a farmer’s market in LA looking totally differentCredit: BackGridSia went makeup free (and wig free) for the Sunday outingCredit: BackGrid
The Elastic Heart singer wore a pink baseball cap and an oversized trench coat as she strolled through the market picking out produce on Sunday, June 7.
The singer and songwriter is known for wearing elaborate wigs, which would obscure most of her face, for a large part of her career.
The 50-year-old has been intensely private, so when she filed for divorce from her husband, Daniel Bernard, last year, fans were surprised to learn she had also quietly welcomed her son, Somersault.
The couple tied the knot in December 2023 in Italy and ended the marriage just 26 months later.
Sia Furler performs in her signature wig at the 2016 Panorama NYC FestivalCredit: GettySia became known for her elaborate wigs which obscure most of her faceCredit: Getty
The documents cite “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split.
The exes have been caught in a nasty custody battle, with Daniel requesting full custody of Somersault.
According to documents reported by Page Six, Daniel, whose an oncologist, claimed he was the “only safe and reliable parent.”
He also called Sia a “serious and immediate danger” to their child.
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“Sia is an unfit and unreliable parent struggling with substance abuse and addiction, rendering her incapable of providing safe or stable care for Summi,” he claimed in the papers.
The judge denied Daniel’s request for full custody and ordered the pair to continue with their previous custody agreement.
Fans were left concerned for Stephen Sanchez after his chaotic Summertime Ball performanceCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe star stepped out on stage and immediately almost fell overCredit: TikTok/ @_floss._
A video of Stephen Sanchez has emerged and shows the star’s chaotic performance at the Summertime Ball.
Taking to the stage the flamboyant star was dressed in a peach suit.
But as The Until I Found You hitmaker started to perform, he was seen slipping and sliding everywhere.
At one point Stephen looked like he was about to fall off the stage, as he tried to regain his balance.
Madonna has landed a host of A-listers to feature in cameos on her new music filmCredit: YouTubeKate Moss in the 13-minute Confessions IICredit: YouTube
The film features six songs from her upcoming album.
During the one unreleased track, Danceteria, the singer slinks through a bathroom where Chelsea football aces Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro are at the urinal, while Richard E. Grant, Gwendoline Christie, Shygirl, Kate and Benedict rave in the toilet disco.
Sabrina Carpenter, who teamed up with Madge on the record’s lead single, the recently released Bring Your Love, also has a starring role.
The superstar’s daughter, Lourdes Leon, is in there too.
Other new tracks in the film are I Feel So Free, Good For The Soul, One Step Away and Read My Lips.
I first told in March how the superstar had enlisted her showbiz pals to be part of a four-day shoot at a West London studio for the video — and now she has proved it was worth the wait.
Her Confessions II collection is set to be released on July 3 — 21 years after her original Confessions On A Dancefloor album came out.
Madonna and Benedict Cumberbatch rave in the toilet discoCredit: YouTubeSabrina Carpenter, who teamed up with Madge on the record’s lead single, the recently released Bring Your Love, also has a starring roleCredit: YouTubeFootballers Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro are in the videoCredit: YouTubeCole and Joao at the urinalsCredit: YouTube
I revealed at the weekend that she is now eyeing up plans for potential concerts to celebrate the record’s release — but you are unlikely to see her follow in other stars’ footsteps with a Las Vegas residency.
Name-checking a state-of-the-art 20,000-capacity arena in Paradise,
Nevada, she said, during a Q&A: “Sphere seems cool, but I don’t want to wake up and look at Vegas every day.”
And she’s ready for fans to ditch their phones at any future gigs. She added: “Put your phones down, go out, and connect with people.
Gwendoline Christie taking a peak in the toiletsCredit: YouTubeJulia Garner, who was cast as Madonna in a yet-to-be-filmed biopic, appears in a scene where Madge flies over the crowdCredit: YouTubeRichard E. Grant makes an appearanceCredit: YouTubeThe superstar’s daughter, Lourdes Leon, is in there tooCredit: YouTube
ABBA have hatched a scheme to take Mamma Mia! The Party to Manchester after it proved a hit in Stockholm and London.
Plans for a new entertainment venue next to the city’s Etihad Stadium have been recommended for approval by council planners.
The three-storey venue, set to be built beside Man City’s new North Stand and close to the Co-op Live, would offer a theatrical dining experience for up to 600 guests.
City have teamed up with entertainment giant Pophouse – founded by Abba’s Bjorn Ulvaeus – for the project, with bosses saying the city’s rich music heritage made it the perfect home for the production.
Pophouse chief executive Jessica Koravos said: “Manchester is known for its innovation in music and entertainment and we cannot think of anywhere better to bring one of the world’s most popular and ground breaking theatrical productions.”
TRAITOR STEPHEN’S MUSICAL
Stephen Libby has penned a musical that he hopes to bring to the West End in the not-too-distant futureCredit: Getty
TRAITORS winner Stephen Libby fancies himself as the next Andrew Lloyd Webber.
I can reveal the Scottish fashionista has penned a musical that he hopes to bring to the West End in the not-too-distant future.
A source said: “Stephen has the musical all written and ready to go.
“He has always dreamed of his work making it to the West End.
“With The Traitors opening so many doors – both financially and in terms of connections – he feels like the time could be now.
“He’s been having various meetings and things are looking promising.”
Stephen and fellow Traitors winner Rachel Duffy split the hit BBC show’s £95,750 prize money earlier this year.
Since then he has been a regular on the showbiz circuit in London and even landed an ad hoc hosting job on ITV’s This Morning.
The Irish singer released Dinner Party on Friday and it is currently in the lead to top the charts, after Sir Paul McCartney claimed pole position last week with The Boys Of Dungeon Lane.
ACE THEO TACKLES TOXICITY
Theo Walcott is getting into the World Cup spirit despite hanging up his footie bootsCredit: PA
FORMER England ace Theo Walcott is getting into the World Cup spirit despite hanging up his footie boots.
The Arsenal legend has teamed up with EE to front its new Yes Boys campaign.
The initiative aims to shine a light on the negative online influences shaping boys’ attitudes both on and off the pitch.
It comes as new data reveals 42 per cent of boys aged 11 to 16 encounter outdated phrases like “men shouldn’t show emotion” and “boys need to toughen up” every week.
Progress has been made over the years, but clearly there is still a long way to go.
DOLLS ASH: MY DANCE TRAUMA
Ashley Roberts has admitted she was so burned out when the group split in 2010 that even seeing people dance would make her cryCredit: Instagram
PUSSYCAT DOLLS star Ashley Roberts has admitted she was so burned out when the group split in 2010 that even seeing people dance would make her cry.
The girls were known for their intense, choreographed routines but Ashley couldn’t bear to bust any moves after the break-up because of the trauma wrapped up in the group’s original run.
She said: “It was absolutely heartbreaking. I couldn’t even actually watch dancing because I would just be bursting into tears.
“When it first became my job, I was like, ‘Well, this is epic’.
“But then it got wrapped up in this bubble of a major pop group that was a global success.
“I got a bit on the other side and I was like, ‘Well, who am I actually outside of this, right?’
“I just felt very lost, very disconnected to the one thing that actually made me feel like it was like the essence of life to me.
“I just didn’t really recognise myself.
“And it was a really, really tough time.”
Thankfully Ashley has since healed herself, as well as her relationship with performing, and has reunited with Nicole Scherzinger and Kimberly Wyatt for a tour here this autumn.
On how she feels to be back, she told Fearne Cotton on her Happy Place podcast: “Everybody’s like, ‘No, you’re in shape – you got this’.
“I’m like, ‘No, this is a whole other beast’.
“It’s like running a marathon in heels.
“We’re like, ‘Screw it’. You never know when we’re going to be able to do this again.
“We’ve got to just do it – we’ve got to say yes and just go for it.”
SAM SMITH mixed business with glamour by pairing a shirt and tie with an eye-catching gold corset.
The Stay With Me singer’s snap has been released for the first time as part of a book called The Elegance Of Time, celebrating the 60th edition of Switzerland’s Montreux Jazz Festival.
Sam played at the event – held annually near Lake Geneva – in 2023, and this photo, along with 150 other intimate portraits of artists including Raye, Lionel Richie, Benson Boone and Pulp, will be included in the book, which is out tomorrow.
BBC bosses splashed out on therapy for UK Eurovision act Look Mum No Computer after he came last in the contest and was ridiculed online.
The performer, whose real name is Sam Battle, said the fallout from his quirky entry Eins, Zwei, Drei is ongoing, so he is still seeing a counsellor.
Sam told The Euro Trip podcast: “There was some sort of therapy stuff. The BBC got me a therapist, which is amazing.
“I’ve never really had one before. They were very accommodating. In fact, I’ve still got the therapist because obviously the fallout is another thing. They don’t just leave you.”
Now Sam reckons the only way forward for the UK at Eurovision is to send a hard rock band.
He said: “We went for ‘very good sensible pop songs’ and then for something ‘a little bit left field’. Still didn’t quite work.
SUGABABES singer Keisha Buchanan has revealed that she was KIDNAPPED from school – shortly before achieving her first hit with the band.
The 41-year-old singer first joined the group at the tender age of 13 and they signed their first record contract in 1998.
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Sugababes singer Keisha has revealed she was kidnapped at 16 years oldCredit: Livelaughlukepod/YouTubeThe star was preparing to make her Sugababes debut as well as sit her GCSEs at the time of the incidentCredit: Getty
But the singer has now revealed how she was kidnapped in 2000 – shortly before the band’s debut single Overload hit the UK top 10.
Keisha revealed that she was taken by a man from school for several hours before she was returned home.
The scary incident caused her parents to decide it was no longer safe for the star to go to school, resulting in her missing her GCSEs.
Keisha, who won The Masked Singer earlier this year, made the confession on the Live, Laugh, Luke podcast.
The star revealed that she was kept captive for a number of hoursCredit: GettyThe singer has been performing with the band for 28 yearsCredit: Getty
The Push The Button hitmaker said: “I had like this incident right before my GCSEs where I was kidnapped.
“So, because it was quite a traumatic experience, my parents were, like, ‘yeah, so we’re going to do a different type of education.’
“So I kind of finished like my education, but I just couldn’t do my GCSEs.”
Keisha had been preparing to debut with the Sugababes at the time and had already left school to focus on music but had briefly returned in order to sit her GCSEs just before they released their first single at the time of the incident.
In the interview, she revealed that she wasn’t able to share more details of the scary incident as she planned to tell the full story in her impending autobiography.
Keisha did add: “I was basically taken after school by someone.
“I think I just sort of blocked it and then had to just get back into, you know, promotion of our first single.”
Keisha revealed how she was held captive for a number of hours – an experience that left her seeking therapy from the age of 16.
Elsewhere, she confessed that only Siobhan ultimately ended up being accepted back into school for the exams after all three originally left in order to record their debut album, One Touch, over the course of two years.
Despite at first claiming her parents pulled her out of school as a result of the terrifying kidnapping incident, Keisha then appeared to suggest the school had refused to re-enroll her for examinations anyway.
She said: “We ended up leaving school. Siobhan went back to school to take her GCSEs and they accepted her back.
“When Mutya and I tried to get back, they were so rude.
“They were like, ‘Oh no, no, no, you’re not coming back. Like you guys thought you were going to be these pop stars. Let’s see what’s going to happen.’
“So they wouldn’t accept us back.”
Keisha further stated that she discussed the kidnapping ordeal in very early promotional interviews for their debut single but has since kept it out of public view and intends to tell the lengthy story in her own memoir.
DUA Lipa partied with friends until 6am at the finale of her three-day Sicilian wedding after Elton John sang and played piano for her ceremony.
The Be The One singer, 30, downed Negronis, drank champagne, smoked cigarettes and snogged new husband Callum Turner, 36, through the night, insiders said.
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DUA Lipa partied with friends until 6am at the finale of her three-day Sicilian wedding after Elton John sang and played piano for her ceremonyCredit: Nick Edwards for dailymail.co.ukThe Be The One singer, 30, downed Negronis, drank champagne, smoked cigarettes and snogged new husband Callum Turner, 36, through the night, insiders saidCredit: BackGrid
But The Sun can reveal security downed two drones by jamming their signals after they flew over the party, causing a huge security scare for the A-Lister guests.
We can also reveal she wore two dresses over the course of the night, both believed to have been designed by Donatella Versace.
Both dresses were white and floor length, and described by onlookers as “glittering”.
A spectacular 10-minute fireworks display wowed guests at the ceremony, with music playing into the nightCredit: The SunGuests wept earlier in a hugely emotional moment as Sir Elton John serenaded Dua by playing piano and singing Your SongCredit: ReutersDua Lipa was seen with designer Donatella Versace during the wedding festivities following her marriage to actor Callum TurnerCredit: ReutersSinger Dua Lipa danced with her husband, actor Callum Turner, during wedding festivities following their marriageCredit: Reuters
Guests wept earlier in a hugely emotional moment as Sir Elton John serenaded Dua by playing piano and singing Your Song.
But a source told The Sun there were concerns for the Rocket Man legend, who was visibly struggling with his eyesight and appeared frail as he had to be supported by two men holding him.
A source told The Sun: “He had a person on each arm to guide him because he couldn’t see but he played the piano so well.”
They were then treated to a wedding feast which included a catalan lobster salad, tuna, and pasta with lobster.
Not everyone was happy about the closures in the old town for Dua Lipa’s partyCredit: Andrew Styczynski – Commissioned by The SunSir Elton John was accompanied by husband David Furnish as they left Palermo in a private jet just after 12.30pm local time todayCredit: Andrew StyczynskiThe happy couple said their vows in an outdoor ceremony at Villa Valguarnera, in BagheriaCredit: instagramGuests were treated to a wedding feast which included a catalan lobster salad, tuna, and pasta with lobsterCredit: Reuters
Guests also had cannoli – Sicilian sweet pastry treats.
Sir Elton John left after the dinner, around the same time as Versace left too.
An Albanian community group based in Palermo also danced at the reception for Dua as bands played live music to guests whose cheers could be heard from the neighbouring streets.
Kosovo-Albanian singer Besnik Qaka and his band performed inside the venue in the evening.
A spectacular ten-minute firework display wowed guests at 11.30pm, before they moved inside the Villa Valguarnera for the afterparty. DJs played music including discotech.
A huge security presence threw a ring of steel around the event, and staff all signed NDAs and had to hand their phones in at 11am and did not get it back again until they left in the early hours.
Dua and Callum Said I Do in the Garden before the reception began.
Guests sat on wicker chairs adorned with white ribbon and gifted hand-embroidered white handkerchiefs with ‘Stay Mad with Me Forever’ on them in red.
They also got a white cotton bag with a red ‘D and C’ on the chair, which was filled with biodegradable confetti.
Elton, 79, who flew in by private jet for the ceremony, and Dua are close friends after they collaborated on the track Cold Heart in 2021.
Italian fashion designer Donatella Versace, 71, was also at the wedding, held in the grounds of the 18th-century Villa Valguarnera in Bagheria, and is believed to have designed Dua’s dress.
Yesterday’s service followed an official one at Old Marylebone Town Hall in central London last week.
A-list guests in Sicily included Brit actor Joe Alwyn, American actress Grace Gummer and her husband DJ Mark Ronson, and pop star Charli XCX and her husband George Daniel, the drummer with The 1975.
Some guests were understood to have signed non-disclosure agreements to protect the privacy of the star-studded three-day celebrations, which kicked off on Friday.
A ring of steel surrounded the venue with metal barriers erected along the roads leading to it.
The villa, which featured in the opening credits of HBO drama The White Lotus 2, is widely considered one of the most historically and culturally significant villas in Sicily.
One Kiss singer Dua, who has an estimated net worth of £150million, and Callum hired the venue for a reported £86,000.
It was once a Mafia hideout but has since been taken on by 76-year-old Italian author and translator Vittoria Alliata di Villafranca, the Princess of Valguarnera, who still lives in the estate.
A huge floral installation of white peonies, hyacinth and lily of the valley from a local florist served as the backdrop for the couple’s vows in the striking courtyard.
Meanwhile the grand entrance to the villa was adorned with purple bougainvillea flowers — a defining feature of Sicily.
Dua is understood to have walked down the aisle with her dad and manager Dukagjin through the courtyard. Pale wooden chairs draped with a cream ribbon were arranged for 200 guests in a semicircle for the ceremony.
Wedding favours included white hankerchiefs embroidered in red with “Stay mad with me forever” and there was also a photo booth.
Guests arrived in chauffer-driven cars and were served wine and popcorn while waiting for the ceremony to commence.
The ceremony was followed by a traditional Sicilian menu from chef Tony Lo Coco’s Michelin-starred Bagheria restaurant I Pupi.
Guests then partied into the night with an outdoor DJ set.
Dua and Callum — who is among the favourites to be the nextJames Bond — are staying in a £6,000-anight suite at the five-star 19th Century Palazzo Villa Igiea in nearby Palermo.
They are reported to have reserved two floors of the hotel and are staying in the Donna Franca Suite with the private terrace offering panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
They also shut down two city centre squares in Palermo for the first of three days of parties.
But she was criticised by locals who stuck up posters accusing the singer of making their public space a “living room for the rich”. Others said: “Palermo is not for rent.”
Sir Elton John left Palermo in a private jet just after 12.30pm local time today.
The music legend, 79, was accompanied by husband David Furnish, 63, who took a photo of the singer with ground staff.
The £24,000 private jet headed towards Farnborough, near his home in Windsor. Elton was a blue tracksuit while David wore a yellow suit.
THE friction between Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr in 1970 will be brought to life in the upcoming Beatles biopic.
But I can reveal there is tension among the two actors playing the pop legends, too.
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Cast from left: Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, and Joseph Quinn as George HarrisonCredit: PAPaul Mescal as Paul and Barry Keoghan as Ringo
Oscar-nominated Barry Keoghan is playing drummer Ringo, alongside Gladiator II star Paul Mescal as Macca.
Sources on the set of the film, directed by Sam Mendes and due for release in 2028, have noticed that the relationship between the two Irish actors has become strained.
One said: “Barry has been rubbing people up the wrong way.
“His timekeeping is not always up to scratch and he often references that he is a parent — despite not living with his son.
“He also brings his brother Eric on set as his assistant, which doesn’t always bring out the best in his character.
“Barry is professional and can bring out the best in any script.
“But he can test the boundaries off-camera.”
Paul and Ringo, the last surviving members of the band, clashed in 1970, shortly before the group split in April that year.
Paul was preparing to release his first solo album, McCartney, just a few weeks before The Beatles album Let It Be was due to come out.
His bandmates wrote him a letter asking him to delay it, and Ringo hand-delivered it to Paul’s home in London.
Paul, who is now close friends with Ringo, later admitted it was the only time he threw someone out of his house.
The new screen project is a series of four biographical films based on the lives and careers of each member of The Beatles.
Joseph Quinn is George Harrison in the movieCredit: �2026 CTMG, Inc., All Rights Reserved.Harris Dickinson is John Lennon in the new film
The four intersecting biopics, written by James Bond screenwriter Jez Butterworth, will tell the story of the group from their humble beginnings in Liverpool to becoming the biggest band on the planet.
Stranger Things’ Joseph Quinn will portray George Harrison and Harris Dickinson stars as John Lennon.
Earlier this week, Harris and co-star Paul went to the Primavera Sound festival in Barcelona, where they were filming.
Of the four films, Mendes explained: “Each one is told from the particular perspective of just one of the guys. This is a chance to understand them a little more deeply.”
Even so, it sounds like there’s another meaty story behind the camera.
Reza’s sharpe move
Reza Amiri-Garroussi and Bella Sharpe have got back togetherCredit: Channel 4
MADE In Chelsea couple Reza Amiri-Garroussi and Bella Sharpe have got back together.
The pair, who first dated in 2024, have been spotted together in London.
It comes as Reza’s ex Ruby Adler announced her engagement to multi-millionaire Luxe Listings Sydney star Gavin Rubinstein after just a year of dating.
An insider said: “Reza and Bella split due to the pressures of filming Made In Chelsea. But now they’re taking a break from the show, they’ve reconnected.
“Reza always wanted to give the relationship another chance. With Ruby out of the picture, there’s nothing to stop them.”
Hopefully it’ll be second time lucky for these two.
CHLOE’S PRICE IS RIGHT
TOWIE’s Chloe Brockett is dating a new fellaCredit: Louis Wood
I can reveal the reality star is courting Essex lad Daniel Price, who used to romance Yazmin Oukhellou.
Chloe recently split with Love Island champ Jack Fincham.
A source said: “Chloe and Daniel have kept their relationship quiet. They are enjoying getting to know each other. He treats her well and she is happy.”
It’s not the first time Yasmin and Chloe have shared the same taste in men after they both had trysts with James Lock.
Small world . . .
BEBE AND JASON ON THE BALL
Bebe Rexha belted out hits in a denim corset teamed with a fluffy pink cardieCredit: Shutterstock EditorialJason Derulo ripped his shirt off to bust out some signature movesCredit: Shutterstock EditorialDerulo performing on stage at Capital’s Summertime BallCredit: Shutterstock EditorialLola Young was back on fine form as she sang her anthem Messy and expressed her gratitude to the crowd for their supportCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
POP’S finest didn’t let the relentless rain dampen their spirits yesterday as they took to the stage to perform for Capital FM’s Summertime ball at London’s Wembley Stadium.
Bebe Rexha belted out hits in a denim corset teamed with a fluffy pink cardie, Jason Derulo ripped his shirt off to bust out some signature moves, and superstar DJ Fatboy Slim got fans dancing.
Lola Young was back on fine form as she sang her anthem Messy and expressed her gratitude to the crowd for their support.
Opening up about her sobriety on the socials this week, she wrote: “Sometimes I feel like I am grieving an old version of myself that I have chosen to let go of. Even though I chose a path that is better and safer, there are days where it still all feels wrong.”
HOPEFULS GIVE XTINA ROLE A BURL
From left: Natalia Jacques, Gracie O’Brien and Cecilia PetrushCredit: SuppliedProducer Christina Aguilera and writer and director Steven AntinCredit: Maja Smiejkowska
CHRISTINA AGUILERA has cast three young stars to share the lead role in her upcoming production of Burlesque The Musical.
British newcomers Natalia Jacques and Gracie O’Brien will portray Ali, the waitress-turned-dancer played by Christina in the 2010 movie.
American Cecilia Petrush will also star in the role.
Writer and director Steven Antin said: “When Christina brought Ali to life in the film, she created something truly iconic.
“Bringing Burlesque from screen to stage is about honouring that legacy. These three exceptional actresses step into those heels not to imitate Christina, but to continue the legacy she began.”
Burlesque The Musical returns to London this September at the new West End venue The Arts At Marble Arch.
Netflix boosts brand
Netflix has added rape- accused Russell Brand’s hit film St Trinian’s on to the streaming serviceCredit: Getty
NETFLIX has added rape- accused Russell Brand’s hit film St Trinian’s on to the streaming service.
The actor and comedian starred in the 2007 movie about rebellious schoolgirls alongside Colin Firth and Rupert Everett.
Netflix added the flick under “comedies” last month.
Brand starred as crook Flash Harry who taught the schoolgirls about “the seven laws of crime”.
He is accused of three rapes, three sex assaults and an indecent assault on six women from 1999 to 2009.
His trial at Southwark Crown Court is due to start in October and is expected to take up to eight weeks.
The former TV and radio presenter denies all charges against him.
Rupert, who played headmistress Camilla Fritton in the film, claimed Brand behaved “perfectly well” on set.
He said: “There were a lot of beautiful women on St Trinian’s and there was never any scandal to do with Russell Brand.”
Sean sis: it’s real deal
LOVE Island star Sean Fitzgerald has uncovered a perfect match in Lola Deal, according to his sister.
Gaelic footballer Sean, who is in a couple with former police detective Lola, sealed their romance with a kiss at the villa in Majorca earlier this week.
The hunk’s sister Katie revealed: “I absolutely adore Lola.
“She is gorgeous, so sweet, kind, and the smile she puts on Sean’s face is really nice to see.
“As of right now in the villa, I think Lola is best suited to him.”
She said of her brother: “I would just like to see more of his goofy side that we all see at home.”
JEANIE IS OUT FOR B*WITCHED
Irish girl group B*Witched from left: Lindsay Armaou, Edele Lynch, Keavy Lynch and Sinead O’CarrollCredit: AlamyThey have revealed that the outfits in their 1998 hit video C’est La Vie were not actually plannedCredit: 2018 Lorne Thomson
THEY rose to fame in the late Nineties wearing double denim – but Irish pop band B*Witched have revealed that the outfits in their 1998 hit video C’est La Vie were not actually planned.
Twin sisters Edele and Keavy Lynch, who supported their brother Shane and his Boyzone bandmates last night, sat down with Biz on Sunday’s Emily ahead of their performance at London’s Emirates Stadium.
Edele said: “The day before we were doing the C’est La Vie video, our clothes got stolen from the record company and they never knew where they went.
“So in a panic they ended up going to Levi’s in the morning to just grab some clothes.”
She added: “I still have my outfit from the 1998 tour and I still fit into it. I don’t know if that is a good thing or a bad thing at this point. My eldest daughter borrows stuff all the time and I’m always coming across it.
“In the winter she wears this white fluffy jacket which I wore for the To You I Belong video.”
The twins, along with bandmates Sinead O’Carroll and Lindsay Armmaou, released their single Firefly on Friday ahead of an EP in August – but as they gear up for their 30th anniversary, they don’t plan on hanging up their jeans any time soon.
Edele explained: “We’ve realised that if we turn up without denim, we might as well not sing.”
Asked about the possibility of being in a campaign with Levi’s, the singer said: “I think they are missing a trick.”
KATE’S SEACRET TALENT
Kate Moss Watercolour is being auctioned to raise funds for Doodle Drop For Coral, a new campaign led by Project ZeroCredit: SuppliedKate has made her debut as an artist this week by unveiling her first watercolour for saleCredit: Getty
KATE MOSS has made her debut as an artist this week by unveiling her first watercolour for sale.
The supermodel painted a green and blue seahorse, left, which is being shown alongside new pieces by Rolling Stone bandmates Ronnie Wood and Keith Richards, Hollywood actress Sharon Stone and Guns N’ Roses legend Slash.
The collection is being auctioned online to raise funds for Doodle Drop For Coral, a new campaign led by Project Zero, the ocean conservation charity co-founded by Ronnie’s son TYRONE WOOD.
Kate has signed her seahorse by hand, writing: “Love, Kate Moss”, alongside a tiny heart.
The current bid stands at £285.
A nude portrait of Kate was painted by the late British artist Lucian Freud in 2002. It sold for £3.5million.
Tyrone told me: “Kate’s seahorse is one of those pieces that makes you smile.”
Nigella Lawson has revealed the secret ingredient she tucks into that keeps her skin looking young and plumpCredit: Shutterstock
NIGELLA LAWSON has revealed the secret ingredient she tucks into that keeps her skin looking young and plump.
The Great British Bake Off judge, left, said: “I’m a great believer in butter. I just eat what I want.
“I’m not punish-ing myself trying to look like a model. I just waddle over and enjoy myself.”
Speaking at London’s Japanese restaurant Nobu, Nigella insisted she will not jump on the tweakment bandwagon, adding: “Cosmetic work is a tyranny. I just think there’s no point.”
Remind me to include a tub of Lurpak on my shopping list.
ED Sheeran has been dealt another blow in his ongoing struggle to build a rehearsal space near his mega estate “Sheeranville”.
The Shape of You singer faces painfully slow construction on his new rehearsal studio due to eco-rules.
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Ed’s new rehearsal space is being held back by protected newts living nearbyCredit: Deadline via Getty ImagesThe rehearsal space is set to be near his 16-acre ‘Sheeranville’ estate (pictured)Credit: SplashNews.com
Builders having to begin construction by hand because of the prescence of endangered newts.
And they will be given special “toolbox talks” on what to do if they come across the tiny 15cm critters.
Planning bosses say the tiny 15cm critters could be disturbed by his plans to knock down a historic but dilapidated barn and turn it into a personal rehearsal space.
Council chiefs said the measures were normal for any countryside development – and not “unreasonable”.
Ed’s builders will have to use hand tools instead of machinery, remove all debris by hand.
The popstar’s problems with amphibians date back as far as 2018 0 when protected great crested newts were found near his Suffolk estate.
Planning permission for the project was granted, but with a string of conditions to protect the species.
Sheeran bought the £1million farm in 20245 – which included a 19th century dilapidated piggery.
Mid-Suffolk Council have forced the pop-star to put a range of measures in place to protect the newtsCredit: sandra standbridgeEach builder will be given a “tool box talk” explaining how to protect the newtsCredit: Laszlo Bokor
The brick and wood debris will also be entirely removed by hand to stop the newts from accessing it.
The ‘Great Crested Newt Method Statement’ filed with Mid-Suffolk District Council states: “The removal of any debris e.g. rubble, wood, will be undertaken by hand as far as possible, and with care, checking beneath all removed items for newts.
“Careful use of machinery will be necessary to lift large debris and to remove the existing concrete building base, with the area beneath checked for the presence of GCN as each section is lifted.”
The method statement also gives a time limit restricting project work to March, April and May when most newts will be in ponds away from construction.
Other eco measures Ed’s having to put in place include creating a “species rich, flowering lawn” with 19 different species of flowers.
Plus he’s got to plant 12 fruit trees, two bat boxes and a triple-house sparrow tower.
A spokesperson for Mid-Suffolk District Council told The Sun: “This is certainly NOT a case of any unreasonable ‘eco-friendly measures’ being demanded by our council – simply normal requirements that would be expected of any countryside developers.”
They explained there had been no conflict between Ed Sheeran and the council at any stage and that he had not complained about the restrictions.
ANGRY Sicilian locals hit out at Dua Lipa after two city piazzas were cordoned off for the singer’s wedding bash this weekend.
On Thursday cops tore down posters protesting “Palermo is not for rent” and “Our square is not your living room”.
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Dua Lipa paid £5,000 to residents in Palermo to say thank you for taking over their streetsCredit: Nick EdwardsDua married husband Callum Turner in a lavish wedding on the Italian island of SicilyCredit: BackGridPop icon Dua and actor Callum were joined by fellow celebs as they celebrated their weddingCredit: BackGridSicilian locals plastered posters around the city expressing their unhappiness with DuaCredit: Andrew Styczynski
But yesterday morning graffiti had also appeared on walls in the picturesque Piazza Croce dei Vespri.
The square and adjoining Piazza Sant’Anna have been sealed off for the first of three days of celebrations as One Kiss star Dua, 30, and actor Callum Turner, 36, mark their nuptials.
They officially married in London last weekend before flying to Italy this week.
Guests including singer Charli XCX and music producer Mark Ronson were in Palermo for drinks last night.
Yesterday, it emerged Dua has paid £5,000 to residents.
The gesture is understood to compensate locals whose apartments overlook the area for parking problems.
But a marble column in the centre had last night not been cleaned of old foul-mouthed graffiti complaining of an unpaid debt.
A source said: “It doesn’t really match the idyllic love story vibe that Dua seems to be going for.”
Plainclothes officers removed posters from the graffiti-laden wallCredit: Andrew StyczynskiStreets were closed off for Dua and Callum’s weddingCredit: Andrew StyczynskiDua and Callum held an official wedding in London last weekendCredit: Ray Collins
Dua, Callum and guests have been staying at the five star Villa Igiea hotel overlooking Palermo’s marina.
The couple got a huge cheer and applause as they arrived at their party last night, with Dua dazzling in a halterneck backless dress.
Callum wore a casual suit and could not resist giving his new wife a cheeky squeeze of her bum, left.
The square was decked out with classic Italian cars and an outdoor cocktail bar.
Earlier, police moved on locals in Piazza Sant’Anna.
One resident said of the cops’ action: “It all seems a bit over the top.
“We just wanted to see Dua Lipa and wish her well.”