POP star Dua Lipa is suing Samsung for £11million after the tech giant allegedly used her face to sell £300 televisions without her permission.
A picture of the Levitating singer was on the packaging of Crystal 43in ultra-high- definition sets to promote its XITE Hits music channel.
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Fuming Dua Lipa is suing Samsung for £11millionCredit: GettyThe tech firm allegedly used her face to sell televisions without her permission
In legal paperwork obtained by The Sun, Dua’s attorneys say she owns the copyright to the photo — taken backstage at a 2024 festival.
She claims it appeared on a “significant portion” of the tellies sold in the US — and her fans even flocked to buy them in the belief she had endorsed them.
The filing, made in the Central District of California Federal Court, reveals that Grammy- winner Dua is demanding a minimum $15million (£11million) in damages — but a jury could decide to award far more.
South Korean firm Samsung is said to have ignored several legal warnings from her team.
Her lawyer Christine Lepera wrote: “Samsung used a copyrighted image of Ms. Lipa without authority or licence and prominently featured it on the front of boxes containing Samsung-manufactured televisions for retail sale.”
She added “The substantial revenue made on the sale is inextricably tied to the false message conveyed to consumers that Ms. Lipa has endorsed the Infringing Products when she has not.”
One fan is said to have put a photo of the box online with the caption: “I wasn’t even planning on buying a TV, but I saw the box so I decided to get it.”
Another in Miami who spotted it in a store wrote on Instagram: “I’d get that TV just because Dua is on it. That’s how obsessed I am.”
Dua is the frontwoman for Yves Saint-Laurent’s beauty productsCredit: TNI PressThe stunning singer is also the face of NespressoCredit: Nespresso
A third said: “I’ve always said if you need anything selling, just put a picture of Dua Lipa on it.”
Ms Lepera added that Dua would not have agreed a Samsung deal anyway as she is “highly selective in her commercial partnerships”.
She has signed a number of advertising deals to take her net worth in excess of £100million.
Dua is the face of Nespresso, alongside George Clooney, and also the frontwoman for Yves Saint-Laurent’s beauty products.
In 2023, she signed a seven- figure package to become the face of sports car brand Porsche, and she is in a multi-year partnership with sportswear giant Puma.
Samsung had yet to file a defence to the court. Both Samsung and Dua Lipa’s legal firm, MSK, were asked to comment.
AKON and Ne-Yo have been the soundtrack of our lives for the past two decades.
Between them, they have sold more than 55million records worldwide, thanks to a series of high-profile collaborations including Rihanna, Mariah Carey, Gewn Stefani and David Guetta.
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Akon, left, and Ne-Yo play a recent Dublin gigCredit: Philipp SprengerThe hitmaker had kicked off the tour Zorbing over the crowdCredit: Philipp Sprenger
In 2008, Akon teamed up with Michael Jackson to rework the King of Pop’s 1982 smash Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’.
Now he tells Bizarre that he’s got his sights on teaming up with Princess of Pop Britney Spears.
Speaking to Bizarre’s Jack backstage at The O2 as he and Ne-Yo team up for a massive UK arena tour, Akon said: “Yeah, I would f***ing kill that record with Britney. I’m obsessed with her.
“I have some songs lined up, but I can’t even explain it. As for the sound, I think it needs to reflect where she’s at in her life.”
He added: “That thing is beyond Britney. I can’t think of anyone that I haven’t worked with.
“So this is why I do a lot of collaborations with new artists, because that is what inspires me now.”
The duo have played just about every big arena in the country, including multiple nights at Manchester’s Co-Op Live Arena and four nights at London’s O2.
And fans there for their last night at the capital’s venue this Thursday are in for a treat as the show is nothing short of bonkers in the best way, with Akon crowd-surfing on a pimped-out table.
The singer is a Britney Spears fanCredit: Philipp SprengerAkon and Ne-Yo embrace on-stage during their high-energy set in DublinCredit: Philipp Sprenger
The hitmaker had kicked off the tour Zorbing over the crowd — but UK health and safety rules forced him to rethink his plans.
Akon said: “Yeah, the inflatable ball was my idea. I’ve been doing it at other places since about 2008, but the UK has got too many restrictions.”
Videos of Akon crowd-surfing have gone viral on social media, with overjoyed fans baffled and stunned at the singer’s daring display.
In one clip, the superstar can be heard telling security not to worry and to get out of the way, as his fans love him and won’t hurt him.
Admitting he has zero fears when it comes to entering the crowd, Akon said: “No, I’m not nervous about falling off at all.
“You have got to have balance, though.”
After we tell him we would need a vodka before hitting the stage, the teetotal star laughs: “That’s why you could never do it. You couldn’t balance on there.
“You would be wobbly the moment you get on top.”
In fact, the sober star says all he needs is a can of Coca-Cola and some jelly beans to get him pumped up for the two-and-a-half-hour show.
Akon said: “Back in the day I used to work out before a show, but now it comes so second nature, I just chill and relax until it’s time for me to get on. I literally have no rituals.
Akon with The Sun’s Jack Hardwick in LondonCredit: Philipp SprengerNe-yo with JackCredit: Supplied
“I love jelly beans. I have them before my show every day. I like Coke as a nice refreshing drink, and I make fruit juices as well. Just the basic stuff — ginger and lemon teas.
“But for the show itself, it’s totally different. I turn into the Incredible Hulk. I just change when the lights come on. I turn into somebody totally different.
“I’m not exhausted by the end. I’m fully energised and ready to go again.”
While Akon is powered by jelly beans, it seems his co-headliner Ne-Yo gets his energy from Scampi Fries.
Bizarre are led through the rabbit warren of corridors in The O2, passing racks of diamond- encrusted clothes to meet the star ahead of the gig.
And when he emerges from his dressing room, he holds up two packs of the savoury snack, which can be found in most old boozers.
Clearly impressed and baffled by the quintessentially British treat, Ne-Yo says: “I’ve just discovered scampi snacks — I love them.”
Rather than bringing them with him on the road, bosses at The O2 have stocked his dressing room minibar with a plentiful supply.
We tell Ne-Yo that if he pops to the pub for a post-show pint, he will be able to ask for a bag of Scampi Fries alongside his Stella.
Ne-Yo, who has clocked up 20 UK Top 40 singles and five UK No1s, jokingly replies: “I’m going to invest in the company.”
Judging by their high-energy set, it seems jelly beans and Scampi Fries really are the way forward.
ZENDAYA: MY BALANCING ACT
THEY are two of the biggest showbiz names on the planet.
But despite regularly being seen out and about together, Tom Holland and Zendaya are notoriously private when it comes to their relationship.
Tom Holland and Zendaya are notoriously private when it comes to their relationshipCredit: GettyZendaya and Tom married in secret this year after meeting on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2016Credit: Getty
Now the Dune actress has revealed why she holds things back from fans – describing how she is locked in a daily battle over how much of her private life to share.
Zendaya said: “It’s a complex thing. It’s a balance of how to figure out how much to give of yourself, because I wouldn’t be in this position without the people who support me, and I want to be able to show them how thankful I am for their support.
“But then on the flip side, it is important to pour into yourself as well and hold things sacred to yourself and to your loved ones – to have those moments too and create that little healthy boundary.”
Zendaya and Tom married in secret this year after meeting on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2016.
She added: “At the end of the day, you have to fill your cup too.
“I try to find that balance. There’s really no blueprint. There’s no road map.
“We don’t know what we’re doing. We’re just figuring this out every day.”
A $570m JACKO THRILLER
The Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has only been out for three weeks but is already breaking recordsCredit: Glen Wilson/LionsgateThe King of Pop is played by his real-life nephew, Jaafar JacksonCredit: Getty
The film has surpassed $570million (£420m) at the global box office – making it the No1 music biopic of all time in North America.
It is only the second music biopic ever to earn more than $500million at the box office, following in the footsteps of Bohemian Rhapsody.
Released in 2018, that film saw Rami Malek play the late Freddie Mercury, while former EastEnders actor turned X-Men hunk Ben Hardy played drummer Roger Taylor.
Michael’s daughter, Paris Jackson, has distanced herself from the project, accusing bosses of creating a “fantasy” with “full-blown lies”.
ARIANA: NEW LIFE BUDS IN PETALS
Ariana Grande has continued to tease her upcoming eighth album, PetalCredit: Getty
ARIANA GRANDE has continued to tease her upcoming eighth album, Petal.
The We Can’t Be Friends singer has insisted the new collection isn’t like her X-rated 2021 record Positions – despite previously referring to it as “a bit feral”.
Asked if the records will be similar, Ari simply replied: “No, but I love her [Positions] . . . I just enjoy evolving.”
The album’s lead single, Hate That I Made You Love Me, drops in just over a fortnight, with Petal released on July 31.
Ari’s previous album, 2024’s Eternal Sunshine, was all about her split from Dalton Gomez after three years of marriage, and finding love once more with her Wicked co-star Ethan Slater.
Insisting Petal will be far more uplifting than her last offering, Ariana added: “Basically, it’s about something that is full of life growing through the cracks of something cold and hard and challenging.”
Doja’s frilled to hit town
Doja Cat opted for a purple metallic crop-top and a tiny frilly brown skirtCredit: BackGrid
The Paint The Town Red rapper clearly doesn’t feel the cold as she steps out in New York in this tiny outfit.
Looking ready to party into the night, Doja opted for a purple metallic crop-top and a tiny frilly brown skirt – which barely measures more than some of the belts I own.
Doja completed her look with an equally minuscule pink handbag, which looks like it would only be able to fit an iPhone and a single lighter.
She may be from Los Angeles, but Doja clearly has some northern grit in her.
HELLO JAMES – WHO’S THE LITTLE GUY ON YOUR KNEE?
James Martin shared this picture of himself with presenter Guy MartinCredit: Instagram
I’VE posed for my fair share of unflattering pictures with stars over the years.
But James Martin may have just taken the crown when it comes to photographic oddities.
The TV chef shared this picture of himself with presenter Guy Martin after he appeared on James Martin’s Saturday Morning cookery show.
Due to the angle, James appears five times the size of Guy, who is perched next to him like a ventriloquist’s dummy.
The Instagram comments section was immediately filled with fans of the duo giving them a good old-fashioned ribbing.
One wrote: “Did you have him on a boil wash?” Another added: “Love Guy. I didn’t realise he was only 2ft tall though.”
A third teased: “Faith in the British sense of humour restored by reading this comment section.”
Seemingly oblivious to the epic fail, James gushed over his bromance with Guy, with the caption: “I’ve interviewed many people but Guy was a top one . . .fascinating man and a massive eater. Top show – hope you liked it.”
DANCEFLOOR legend Martin Garrix has confirmed my tale that his single with Ed Sheeran is just around the corner.
Over the weekend, a billboard with a message from Martin popped up in the Dominican Republic, where Shape Of You singer Ed has just played a show.
It read: “Hi Ed. Can we please release our song? Xx Marty.”
I told last month how the duo will be releasing Repeat It.
Show support
Lewis Capaldi has added some huge support acts to his BST Hyde Park shows in LondonCredit: Getty
LEWIS CAPALDI has added some huge support acts to his BST Hyde Park shows in London.
The singer will be supported by a string of top names including The Vaccines for his July 11 gig and Alessi Rose for his July 12 date.
Before he reaches the capital, Lewis will also play the brand-new Roundhay Festival in Leeds on July 4.
Jessie Murph, Kerr Mercer and Nieve Ella have all been announced to support him at the show.
Going all out
Rita Ora looks like she stepped straight off the runway in this quirky blue-striped co-ord on Sunday in LondonCredit: Click News and Media
WE can always count on Rita Ora to go all out when it comes to weird and wonderful outfit choices.
The singer and actress looks like she stepped straight off the runway in this quirky blue-striped co-ord on Sunday in London.
Rita was in high spirits as she headed to the Royal Albert Hall to rehearse for tonight’s special King’s Trust Celebration concert there.
Bizarre will be backstage to bring you all the gossip from the VIP-packed night.
THE WEEK IN BIZNESS
TODAY: Ant and Dec will be at the helm for the King’s Trust Awards, with sets from Rod Stewart, Rita Ora, Craig David, Ronnie Wood and Anne-Marie at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
TOMORROW: Bust out the bunting for the first Eurovision semi at 8pm on BBC One, followed by the second on Thursday and the grand final on Saturday, all broadcast live from Vienna.
FRIDAY: Drake returns with Iceman, his first solo album in three years. The Canadian rapper will be hoping it becomes his seventh UK No1, although there will also be new releases from Maluma and The All-American Rejects.
SATURDAY: Harry Styles kicks off his Together Together tour in Amsterdam with special guest Robyn.
THE hot contender to win Eurovision has a steamy past, having posed topless for Playboy and appeared on Baywatch.
Glamorous violinist Linda Lampenius is the bookies’ favourite to win next week’s contest with singer Peter Parkkonen, representing Finland with their song Liekinheitin.
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Linda Lampenius, Finland’s Eurovision hopeful, once posed topless for Playboy and appeared on Baywatch before becoming the bookies’ favourite to win this year’s contestCredit: Rex FeaturesLinda poses in front of her Playboy cover at the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills in March 1998Credit: Getty
But she is no stranger to fame, as she has an illustrious career as one of the nation’s sexiest musicians.
Linda, now 56, posed on the cover of US magazine Playboy in 1998 and appeared topless while holding her instrument in photos inside the mag.
She was compared to Pamela Anderson because of her stunning figure and blonde hair, which led to an appearance on Baywatch.
Linda, who has also used the name Linda Brava, appeared in an episode playing a violinist named Ariana, but she later claimed to have refused to shoot certain scenes with David Hasselhoff, who played lifeguard Mitch Buchannon.
She said the script included the pair giving each other massages before they “find themselves in a steam room sharing a hot kiss.”
But Linda recalled: “I said that I refused to do the scene and that Hasselhoff was also ‘too old’ for me.”
She also appeared on an episode of the British late-night show Eurotrash in the Nineties, where she was referred to as a “supermodel” and “the hottest thing to come out of Finland since the sauna.”
Reflecting on the TV show appearance and her previous work in 2018, Linda said it was a small part of her life which she still laughs about.
Linda also appeared on Nineties late-night show Eurotrash, where she was dubbed a ‘supermodel’ and ‘the hottest thing to come out of Finland since the sauna’Credit: GettyLinda Lampenius and singer Pete ParkkonenCredit: AFP
She wrote on Instagram: “These fashion shows and photo shoots were something I did for less than 20 days of my life!! (I’m just laughing about the fact that they called me ‘supermodel’).
“If you get stuck in a box and never dare to do anything funny and different, life will become boring. Eurotrash was a humorous TV show, like a comedy show.
“I come from a theatre family and all quirky stuff is normal. It doesn’t make me less of a classical violinist/artist.”
Linda and Pete will compete in the first Eurovision semi-final at 8pm on Tuesday on BBC One, with hopes of progressing to the 70th annual grand final on Saturday May 16.
The latest odds from William Hill give Finland odds of 5/4 to win the entire contest, just in front of Denmark and Greece which are both at 11/2.
If Linda does win, she will be the oldest person to ever do so.
Estonia’s Dave Benton currently holds the record after winning aged 50 for Estonia in 2001.
Meanwhile, the UK act Look Mum No Computer is 17th in the betting with odds of 80/1 to win with his song Eins, Zwei, Drei.
THE Beatles and the Rolling Stones both launched their latest albums yesterday – on separate continents.
It was a case of let’s attend the knights together in honour of British rock royalty, Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Mick Jagger.
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Sir Paul McCartney hosted a lunchtime listening party at Abbey Road Studios for his new album The Boys Of Dungeon LaneHours later in New York, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood were spotted at the launch of their new album Foreign TonguesCredit: Getty
At London’s fabled Abbey Road Studios, where the Fab Four recorded nearly all their songs, Macca held a lunchtime listening party for his latest LP, The Boys Of Dungeon Lane (out May 29).
Then, in New York City hours later, Sixties chart rivals Jagger and Keith Richards as well as the later arrival to the ranks, Ronnie Wood, were seen strolling out of a Brooklyn theatre at the launch of their album, Foreign Tongues (out July 10).
In a neat twist, Sir Paul plays bass on new Stones track Covered In You, recorded at the same session as his contribution to Bite My Head Off from 2023’s Hackney Diamonds.
And BOTH albums were produced by American hotshot producer Andrew Watt, known for work with Ozzy Osbourne and Lady Gaga.
Macca’s The Boys Of Dungeon Lane is out May 29The Stones’ new album, Foreign Tongues, is out out July 10Credit: Unknown
Before a select audience of fans and “my lovely son James” in Studio No2, McCartney, 83, introduced all fourteen tracks on his heartfelt 21st studio effort.
For nearly two hours, he filled the time with fascinating anecdotes, playing select chords on his acoustic guitar and even mouthing some of the lyrics.
Many songs have nostalgia-filled backstories, including As You Lie There about unrequited love for a girl called Jasmine.
The “trippy” Mountain Top recalls Glastonbury, where he headlined in 2022, while Down South is about hitchhiking trips to Wales with George Harrison.
Sir Paul with fans at the listening partyCredit: Sonny McCartneyKeith Richards and Sir Mick at the launch eventCredit: Getty
Elsewhere, there’s a first-ever duet with fellow Beatle Ringo Starr on new single Home To Us, also featuring Chrissie Hynde and Sharleen Spiteri. Salesman Saint is a moving tribute to Macca’s parents, Jim and Mary.
Meanwhile, the Stones also heralded their album with the release of a single, In The Stars, the follow-up to Rough & Twisted, a limited edition vinyl single which appeared under a pseudonym, The Cockroaches.
Then Oscars host Conan O’Brien hosted a Q&A session with Mick and Keith, both 82, and Ronnie, 78.
Besides McCartney, other guests on Foreign Tongues (also 14 songs) include The Cure’s Robert Smith on three tracks and Steve Winwood.
Simon Cowell could be bringing back The X Factor, nearly eight years after the contest was axed.Credit: Shutterstock EditorialThe X Factor discovered huge acts – including One DirectionCredit: Rex
And now the music mogul is considering a revival for the Gen Z years, following the success of his Netflix show The Next Act, which spawned rising pop stars December 10.
Simon told TV presenter Jamie East on his new podcast Tales From The Celebrity Trenches: “Do you bring it back as X Factor or do you bring it back as the Z Factor? We talk about it a lot.
“There’s still no question — the power of TV in terms of getting people to know an artist.
“It is so important if you are not writing your own material.
“You do hear about these artists who break online, but so rarely.
“We could have made [The Next Act] online.
“I just don’t think it would have had the same effect.
“The truth is, thank God, people like being on TV.”
Running such a huge talent show is not always plain sailing, but Simon had a distinctly New Age solution when the stresses got just too much while filming The Next Act.
He turned to crystals.
Simon recalled: “We were running out of money so I did have a little mini meltdown.
“And then I just sat with my crystals and they just comforted me.
“I can feel the energy.
“I thought it was kind of comforting having the crystals rather than everyone in my ear driving me crazy.”
He added: “I definitely believe in the powers of the universe.
“I feel that if you can harness the power of the universe to try and make your mind just calm down for a moment . . . ”
I don’t think I’ll be swapping a medicinal glass of rosé for rose quartz any time soon, but each to their own . . .
She confirmed yesterday that the Inxs frontman will be included.
Kylie Minogue will pay tribute to late boyfriend Michael Hutchence in her new Netflix documentaryCredit: NETFLIXKylie with MichaelCredit: NETFLIXKylie shared photographs of them together while they dated between 1989 and 1991Credit: NETFLIXKylie stayed close to Michael even after their split, until his death aged 37 in 1997Credit: NETFLIX
In a first-look trailer, Kylie shared photographs of them together while they dated between 1989 and 1991.
She said previously: “He was a dark bad boy and I was the pure good girl.
“He opened up a whole new world for me.”
The three-parter will also feature Kylie’s friends and family talking about highs and lows she has faced, including her breast cancer diagnosis in 2005.
Kylie is heard saying off camera: “I felt removed from my body.
Fans will have to wait until May 20 to watch the series in full.
Kylie seen in the iconic video for Can’t Get You Out of My HeadCredit: NETFLIXKylie with sister Danni in the documentaryCredit: NETFLIXThe three-parter will also feature Kylie’s friends and family talking about highs and lows she has faced, including her breast cancer diagnosis in 2005Credit: NETFLIXThe show will be released on Netflix on May 20Credit: NETFLIX
Hol lotta Caity
Caity Baser was hostess with the mostess as she opened a beach club in the back garden of her seaside home.
She squeezed into a tight blue dress and posed with bunting and flowers at the party to mark the release of new single Holiday Song this Friday.
Caity Baser was hostess with the mostess as she opened a beach club in the back garden of her seaside homeCredit: Handout
The singer’s pal Joel Corry was drafted in as DJ for the bash in Brighton.
She ordered a tonne of sand to turn her garden into a beach – but revealed to TikTok followers that she ordered builders’ sand by mistake.
She referred to her makeshift club as Ibiza Crops – a reference to Ibiza Rocks on the White Isle – but was dreading the prospect of clearing it all up afterwards.
If the release of the single goes as well as her party, she’ll have a very fun summer.
Jack Cullen began his first headline European solo tour in Bristol last night, and has a long slog in front of him.
The musician, who released single Face To Face on Friday, will play across the UK in the next few days then head to Brussels, Cologne, Amsterdam and Berlin.
He’ll then Run 22 marathons in 22 days – back from the German capital to London for the tour’s final night, headlining Oslo in Hackney on June 12.
Last summer was one of the best-ever for gigs, with Oasis, Dua Lipa and Coldplay selling out stadiums, while Radiohead, Lewis Capaldi and Tate McRae played to packed arenas.
The Pussycat Dolls have been forced to cancel their North American tour as ticket sales disappointCredit: GettyZayn Malik has also been forced to cancelCredit: Getty
But ticket prices have only continued to rise since live shows returned after Covid, and now it’s clear punters have had enough of greedy artists taking advantage.
Shows are already hugely expensive in the UK, but over in the US, the prices are even higher.
Suki Waterhouse, Ella Mai and Logic and G-Eazy’s tours there later this year are also struggling to shift tickets, with fears they could be axed too. It’s only a matter of time before we see a similar knock-on effect in the UK.
Even some major tours here this summer are yet to sell out, after insatiable promoters added strings of dates and pushed artists into bigger and bigger venues.
As you know from this column, I love a good concert.
But at a time when everyone is strapped for cash, paying through the nose for a couple of hours of singing is just not an option for many.
So if the music industry keeps moving like it is at the moment, it’s only going to turn people off altogether.
It’s a three-horse race to the No1 album spot this Friday, with Mel C, Michael Jackson and Kneecap all battling it out for the prime position.
Just under 3,000 chart units separate third place from the top spot, so it’s all to play for.
Kneecap are currently at No1 with Fenian, closely followed by Mel’s Sweat and MJ’s 2005 compilation album The Essential, which is back in demand after the Michael biopic.
Pete aims for Kyle collab
Pete Doherty is recruiting The View’s frontman Kyle Falconer to collaborate on songs for his next solo album.
They previously worked together on Pete’s track Midas Touch, on Kyle’s recent LP Lovely Night Of Terror.
Pete Doherty is recruiting Kyle Falconer of The View to work on songs for his next solo albumCredit: Getty
Now Kyle has revealed he visited Pete’s home in the South of France and will return soon to work with the Libertines rocker, right, again.
He said: “I was just over in France to see him, we’re talking about loads of stuff.
“It was all very arty. We were painting together, and talking about films.”
Pete’s last solo effort was 2025 album Felt Better Alive, while the last Libertines record was 2024’s All Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade.
Two years ago Kyle moved to Alicante in Spain with his wife Laura and their four kids.
He now runs songwriting camps from his La Sierra Casa studio, and said: “The camp is getting bigger and better every year, and we’ve just moved to a new place.”
Celebrity treasures on sale
War Child is back with its Spring Clean auction – packed with some of the most random and brilliant celebrity treasures going.
Fans can get their hands on Alan Carr’s Isabell Kristensen blazer from RuPaul’s Drag Race, and even a signed Devil Wears Prada 2 script donated by Stanley Tucci.
There’s a Fantastic Four script signed by Vanessa Kirby, plus one of the strangest items on offer – the infamous radish prop from Netflix’s Beef, signed by the cast.
You can also win a private film screening and lunch with Simon Pegg.
Meanwhile, sci-fi lovers can snap up a personalised photo signed by X-Files co-stars Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny.
Music lovers are also in for a treat, with signed setlists and memorabilia from Robbie Williams, The 1975 and Coldplay all among items up for grabs.
It runs until May 27, and will raise money to support children in war zones. See springclean.charitystars.com to get involved. Prize draw entries start at £10.
Liz up to sun-thing
Lizzo is lapping up as much sun as she can before she kicks off the promo for her new album, Bitch.
The Truth Hurts singer shared this snap with her 11million Instagram followers with the caption: “Best Birthday Ever”.
Lizzo lapping up the sunCredit: Instagram/lizzobeeating
Lizzo turned 38 last week and used her special day to announce the record, which is the follow-up to her 2022 album, Special.
Teasing what Bitch has in store, Lizzo said: “I think it’s always going to be the Lizzo sound.
“I posted a snippet of one of my new songs that’s coming out very, very soon and somebody was like, ‘The Nineties are back’.
“I love constructing and producing and creating just well-crafted music and songs.
“I hope everyone likes it.”
As a massive Lizzo fan myself, I am sure I’m going to love it.
Gen Z heartthrobs Zendaya and Tom HollandCredit: Getty
They are one of the most in-demand couples in Hollywood, so what do Gen Z heartthrobs Zendaya and Tom Holland do in their spare time?
The British actor, above with his other half, said: “So we have been crocheting at home. I absolutely love it.”
“I just find it turns my brain off. I can’t do anything else and do it. I have to be lasered in.”
She looked ethereal as she posed on the iconic stepsCredit: GettyThe dress was tight-fitting and accentuated her figureCredit: GettyShe showed off her thigh with the very high splitCredit: GettyShe looked like an old Hollywood movie starCredit: Getty
“This b**ch wrapped herself in Kodak film,” added a second, complete with a laughing emoji.
“That is a cool dress and idea,” said a third.
“She DEFINITELY understood the assignment,” added a fourth.
While a fifth wrote: “Sabrina Carpenter’s dress is one of the most creative I’ve seen tonight. I love that.”
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But not everyone was complimentary of her outfit, with some quick to share their critique.
“It’s classy but she could have done a whole lot better,” said one person.
“Boring as usual,” slammed a second.
While a third penned: “the dress itself is beautifully constructed but the choice of the film strips is lost on me and its connection to the theme/dress code?”
This comes off the back of Sabrina’s sensational headline concerts at Coachella last month.
The singer delivered a set dubbed “Sabrinawood” with a Hollywood-themed set across two weekends on April 10 and 17.
Her shows featured some very iconic cameos from the likes of Madonna, Susan Sarandon, Will Ferrell, and Sam Elliott.
The setlist highlighted her most recent album Man’s Best Friend, but also included some of her biggest hits like Espresso and Feather.
The Spice Girls are in talks over a hologram spectacularCredit: ReutersThe show would be like the very successful Abba VoyageCredit: ABBA Voyage
With a full-blown comeback looking unlikely, Posh said the girls all reckon a digital show would be “great” — and have already been chatting about it over dinner.
The concept would follow in the footsteps of ABBA Voyage, which turned the Swedish band into digital avatars and has been raking it in since launching in East London in 2022.
Victoria said on SiriusXM radio: “I think it would be a great idea.
“We were talking about it at dinner, but we’ll see.”
It comes after Melanie C poured cold water on reunion hopes, insisting a tour “is not happening”.
So fans shouldn’t hold out for the band hitting the road together anytime soon.
Still, a Spice Girls show without the stress of rehearsals, travel or arranging five schedules sounds very on- brand.
And if anyone can make Girl Power go digital, it’s music boss Simon, who first dreamed up ABBA’s avatar take
My insiders first told me of the girl-group’s plans last May, with Simon keen to celebrate their greatest hits with the show.
The Spice Girls, minus Posh, on their 2019 reunion tourCredit: Getty – ContributorThe Spice Girls perform during the Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic GamesCredit: EPA
A source added: “Simon is desperate to have one last hurrah with the Spice Girls and this is his latest idea.
“He was the person who came up with the original idea for Abba and their digital show and he thinks this model could work perfectly for the group.
“Simon knows this plan would mean the band would be making money in their sleep and it would open up their music to a whole new generation.
“It’s a really exciting concept and he thinks he could make it work.”
Now he’s got Posh on board, I don’t think there is anything stopping them.
DAMON: TOO BUSY TO WIPE
SUCCESSFUL musicians can be lazy sods after years of having lackeys looking after their every whim.
And Damon Albarn has revealed he’s become so high and mighty, that he’s decided to stop doing anything not worth his time.
Damon Albarn has admitted he sometimes doesn’t wipe his bum properlyCredit: Getty
The result, my friends, is absolutely disgusting.
The Blur frontman said: “Sometimes I don’t even really wipe my bum properly.
“No, it’s not all the time, but you know what I mean. I just don’t allow many of the conventions that slow the day down to get in my way.”
Defending his toilet habit, Beatlebum singer Damon, insisted: “It’s more of the principle of the thing.
“If I’m in a hurry, I won’t waste extra time doing something that is not necessary to do at that moment.”
Remind me to never sit down wind of him at a party.
DUA TO LINE UP TOUR FILM?
HOLIDAY-loving Dua Lipa wore denim and stripes as she zipped off on another trip with her actor fiancé Callum Turner.
They have just returned from a romantic getaway to Copenhagen and she shared snaps online of them together and him tucking into a burger.
Dua Lipa on a romantic getaway to CopenhagenCredit: instagram/dualipaDua’s fiancé Callum Turner tucks into a burgerCredit: instagram/dualipa
But it sounds like she may soon have a surprise up her sleeve, after sending fans wild with a message about a potential film of her Radical Optimism tour, which kicked off in November 2024 in support of her third album.
Dua shared a video on WhatsApp of herself performing and people screaming in the crowds.
In an accompanying note to fans, she wrote: “Happy 2 years of Radical Optimism . . . how should we celebrate?”
Her song End Of An Era features in new flick The Devil Wears Prada 2 and with the singer already hard at work on her next album, now would be the perfect time to close the book on her previous one.
The couple on a night out in the cityCredit: instagram/dualipa
OLIVIA’S STRIP TEASE BEFORE BARCA GIG
THE World Cup kicks off in just over a month and Olivia Rodrigo is already proving she’s on the ball when it comes to the beautiful game.
But rather than getting behind the US team, she’s more focused on La Liga champs Barcelona, teaming up with the Spanish club and Spotify to create a limited-edition jersey.
Olivia Rodrigo modelling her limited-edition Barcelona jerseyCredit: instagram/oliviarodrigo
Perhaps we just forget about her trip to Stamford Bridge in 2023 to see Chelsea when it was proudly claimed she was a Blues fan.
The women’s team will wear the tops in their home match against Levante on Thursday. On Saturday, Olivia will play a Spotify Billions Club Live gig there.
Olivia, who follows acts such as Ed Sheeran, Drake and The Rolling Stones by featuring on the club’s kit, said: “Seeing ‘OR’ on a Barcelona jersey, I don’t even know how to process that.
“Getting to perform for the fans who’ve been listening since day one, in a city like Barcelona, is going to be special.”
EUPHORIA actor Jacob Elordi has broken his foot.
The Page Six gossip column in the US said the Aussie heartthrob’s injury means he is out of the running to be on the Cannes Film Festival jury, which he was expected to be part of.
The festival starts next Tuesday, but the injury means we are unlikely to see him striding down the red carpet.
HELL OF A START FOR DEVIL 2
THERE were plenty of doubters and mixed reviews – but The Devil Wears Prada 2 certainly hasn’t fallen out of fashion.
It has topped the box office worldwide, and over the weekend banked $233.6million, including $77million in North America.
That’s more than double the $27.5million the original 2006 flick made in its opening weekend.
It’s finally proof there is demand for female-fronted films, after male movies such as Michael and Project Hail Mary dominated in cinemas.
Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt and Anne Hathaway reprise their roles, with all eyes back on Runway magazine and its editor Miranda Priestly.
Unlike the fictional mag, there’s nothing to worry about with these bumper figures.
CAMERON DIAZ has become a mum for the third time, aged 53.
She and hubby Benji Madden, of rock band Good Charlotte, have welcomed a baby boy called Nautas.
The Charlie’s Angels actress, who had daughter Raddix and son Cardinal by surrogate, previously said she was conscious about being an older mum.
FUTRA LIGHT
RIHANNA gets fruity in an new shoot for her Savage X Fenty’s latest undies range.
The singer, who looked stunning in sett decorated with strawberries, wrote on X: “It’s giving everything but basic for your everyday basics.”
Rihanna models Savage X Fenty’s latest undies rangeCredit: Instagram/badgalriri/savagexfentyRihanna said ‘It’s giving everything but basic for your everyday basics’Credit: X
Rihanna has been really quiet lately, with all whispers of new music once again dying down – a decade after the release of her last album, Anti.
C’mon girl, it’s what we RiRi want.
KATY AND JUSTIN GET PICKLED
KATY PERRY and Justin Trudeau have got themselves in a right little pickle.
The singer proved her unlikely romance with the former Canadian Prime Minister had gone from strength to strength – when she shared loved-up photos on Instagram, including one of their personalised jar of pickles.
Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau got a customised pickle jarCredit: Instagram/Katy PerryThe jar reads: ‘Katy & Justin’s Pop + Policy Pickles’Credit: Instagram / Katy Perry
The label shows the couple under the name “Katy & Justin’s Pop + Policy Pickles.”
Customised jars like theirs set customers back £22, but she clearly enjoyed the savoury souvenir, given that she shared the photo with her 200million followers.
Katy, pictured with her arms wrapped around her boyfriend, will head out on a six-week tour next month with stops in Dublin, Cardiff, and Isle of MTV festival in Malta.
At least with this momento stashed in her suitcase, she will have a reminder of home.
BOBBY’S BOO TO ROCK SIRS
PRIMAL SCREAM frontman Bobby Gillespie has taken a swipe at rock royalty, accusing some of music’s biggest names of getting too cosy with the Royal Family.
The singer didn’t hold back as he blasted those who accept honours, taking aim at the likes of Sir Brian May, Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Rod Stewart.
Bobby Gillespie has slammed rockstars who take honours from the Royal FamilyCredit: Getty
At the launch of the David Bowie: You’re Not Alone immersive experience in London, Bobby said: “David Bowie was one of the few admirable rock stars who never took an honour from the Royal Family, which I think is incredibly cool.
“Maybe the coolest thing he ever did.
“The rest of them grovel on their knees, Bowie was like, nah. Too cool.”
Bobby made it clear his admiration for Bowie goes far beyond just snubbing a title, though.
He added: “I was a teenager in the Seventies so I’d be going to school in the morning and my mum would have the radio on and The Jean Genie would be blasting out, or Suffragette City or Golden Years.
“So since I was a conscious kid, a teenager, a pop music fan, he’s always been there.”
Bobby also praised Bowie’s constant reinvention, which he says helped shape his own band’s sound.
He added: “The way that he changed as an artist from album to album – he did different styles, as did The Beatles – that’s been a big influence on Primal Scream.”
ROBBIE WILLIAMS had to grin and bare it after breaking off half of his front tooth.
He shared this smiley selfie with the damaged gnasher on full display, telling his Instagram followers he hadn’t noticed it was missing until getting into bed with his wife Ayda Field.
Robbie Williams reveals his chipped his front toothCredit: InstagramRobbie joked wife Ayda Field says he looks like something out of Dumb and DumberCredit: AP
Robbie revealed: “She said I look like Dumb And Dumber. Fair enough, I guess I do.”
But Rob is in Miami and his dentist is in Los Angeles, so he’s in a quandry over whether to fly five hours to get it fixed before his upcoming shows.
Whatever he does, I doubt he will be taking PALOMA FAITH’s advice.
SHAKIRA suffered major tech issues during her huge Copacabana Beach concert over the weekend.
The global superstar faced backlash as eagle-eyed viewers spotted the mishaps during the performance.
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The artist performed for an estimated crowd of two million at the city’s Copacabana BeachCredit: GettyThe star suffered tech issues while performing her biggest hitsCredit: Getty
An estimated 2 million people attended the show in Rio De Janeiro, where the popstar delivered a nearly 30-song set that included guest appearances by Anitta, Maria Bethania, and Caetano Veloso.
Although she performed in style, the sound and visuals didn’t match up at times.
Clips from the gig quickly went viral on X, but while some viewers were left disappointed, others weren’t surprised, saying it’s common at large-scale shows.
Taking to X, one person said: “If ur gonna lip at least make it believable”.
Another added: “This is genuinely a f******* mess”.
The Colombian singer’s performance follows similar shows by Lady Gaga last year and Madonna in 2024, which were also attended by huge crowds.
“I arrived here when I was 18 years old, dreaming about singing for you,” Shakira told the crowd. “And now look at this. Life is magical.”
She sang several fan favourites during her set, including Hips Don’t Lie, La Tortura, Waka Waka, Whenever Wherever, She Wolf and La Bicicleta.
The show also featured a massive drone show, which amazed the crowd.
Despite being a free concert, Shakira’s show was expected to generate an estimated $150 million in tourism revenue to the city, according to local government.
Clips from the gig quickly went viral on XCredit: Globo TVShakira and Anitta performed live during the concertCredit: Getty
This isn’t the first mishap the pop star has had live on stage.
In February, Shakira suffered a nasty fall during a live stage performance, with the singer twisting her ankle in the middle of her concert.
She was performing in San Salvador when she left fans worried during a mid-song tumble.
Singing her hit song Si Te Vas during the night, Shakira was walking across the stage when her right ankle suddenly twisted.
She then completely toppled to her side, falling onto her elbow as she brought her microphone stand down with her.
During the moment, Shakira stopped singing as gasps could be heard amongst the audience.
But ever the professional, she quickly got herself back up and managed to continue the song – with the star’s band continuing as her guitarist cheered her on.
THEY say good things come to those who wait, so I have high expectations for Roger Sanchez’s first studio album in two decades.
And as he gears up to release the 13-track record, Spectrum, on June 5, the superstar DJ reveals he’s thrown fans a curveball after teaming up with Melanie C on his song I Don’t Wanna Know.
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The Spice Girls, from left: Mel C, Mel B, Victoria Beckham, Geri Horner and Emma BuntonCredit: Refer to SourceBizarre’s Ellie Henman and Roger SanchezCredit: Supplied
“That’s one I didn’t have on my dance card,” Roger tells me after popping into Bizarre HQ, where he takes his tea “milky, two sweeteners”.
“When the Spice Girls first came out, I always felt she was underrated. There was such a power in her voice and I didn’t feel in the Spice Girls she got her due for how powerful her voice is.
“She’s the bubbliest one of the group. She’s a powerhouse.
“I had this track and I was talking to my team about artists who people wouldn’t expect me to work with.
“My manager was like, ‘How about the Spice Girls?’ and I said, ‘Well it’s got to be Mel C if we’re going to do it.’
“We sent the track that I had originally done to her team, and she loved it. And so she sent me back the song that she wrote. And I was like, let’s go.”
“You don’t ever count Madonna out,” Roger explains.
“I know she’s been around for quite some time.
“And as somebody who’s been around for a minute myself, I can say creative forces like that are probably becoming a little more rare as time goes on, because of just the way things are done now.
“You just never count her out because she’s always brewing something
“And it’s always going to be something that moves the needle somehow.”
Just days after Roger drops Spectrum, he will head to his spiritual home in Ibiza to take up a residency at super club Pacha, after spending weeks in the UK finishing the record.
“I started forming where I wanted a body of work to go around 2020. Before we dove into the hell that was known as Covid.
“Coming out of that, the UK was one of the first markets to reopen so I started touring.
“I wound up spending a lot of time in London and I’ve got a flat in Shoreditch.
“The UK became a real central point for me. I connected with a lot of writers and artists here. This is a London album.”
Spectrum is packed with dance bangers including my favourites Midas Touch, Come My Way and How Do We Say Goodbye with Karen Harding, which will be the next single to be released.
And Roger is hoping to return to Glastonbury one day to play the record, after a killer headline set at NYC Downlow back in 2016.
“That was my first kind of performing experience at Glastonbury,” Roger explains.
“It felt like a 1989 rave in the UK. Very, very dark and very loud.
“And people weren’t on their phones. They really plugged into the moment.
“I’ve played a few times since. I did one for Glitterbox and I did another for Greenpeace in a tree.
“There’s a little door opening in the base, and you climb up a bloody ladder.
“You feel like you’re a hobbit. It felt a bit like Gandalf walking into Bilbo Baggins’ home.”
SPICE IT UP
Mel B supported her ‘Spice Sister’ Mel C at a gig in Leeds this weekendCredit: InstagramThe two Mels shared the stage and belted out smash hit Spice Up Your LifeCredit: Instagram
They sang Spice Up Your Life for the first time since the group’s 2019 tour at a concert in Leeds.
Mel C played the gig to celebrate the release of latest solo album Sweat, which is on course to go to No2 this Friday.
TENSIONS between Gordon Ramsey and Brooklyn Beckham were high back in February after the famous chef fired a warning shot to the wannabe over his feud with his parents.
Now it seems Gordon is coming for Brooklyn in business.
Gordon has trademarked Hotter Than Hell by Gordon Ramsay – the name given to the spicy relishes he uses in some of his restaurants.
But it appears he could be preparing to flog bottles of the sauce to customers and if he goes ahead with the venture, he will be competing with Brookylyn’s Cloud 23 hot sauce, which he launched back in 2024.
“If Gordon is launching his own sauce he’ll be going up against Brooklyn in that market,” an insider told me.
“Things will get spicy if they end up clashing over it.”
In February, Gordon told our newspaper he thought Brooklyn had got carried away by his marriage to Nicola Peltz.
Asked about how Posh and Becks were coping after their son’s acid-tongued Instagram statement about them, Gordon said: “Victoria is upset, and I know 24/7, seven days a week, just how much David loves Brooklyn.
“Brooklyn and I have messaged a little bit. Our relationship is solid. I love him.
“His heart is incredible. But it’s hard, isn’t it, when you’re infatuated?
“Love is blind. It’s easy to get up on that rollercoaster and get carried away. But it will come back.”
Awkward.
Moment in the sun
Promising British pop star Bellah Mae is having her moment in the sun after signing a record deal in the StatesCredit: Matthew Berinato
PROMISING British pop star Bellah Mae is having her moment in the sun after signing a record deal in the States.
The Birmingham-born singer posed on a lounger in a snap to promote her new single Salt And Sugar from her upcoming EP, Keep It Peachy, which will be out on May 29.
It’s the first release for Bellah, who is currently on tour across the US, with her new label Sony Nashville.
She told me: “I’ve been coming to Nashville to write since I was 19 years old and knew I wanted to eventually spend more time here from the first time I came over, so to be one of the first UK artists signing to Sony Nashville and be here is a lot of dreams all coming true.
“I wanna bridge the gap between the UK and US country-pop worlds and take over the space one song at a time… the British Hannah Montana!
“The new era is fun, flirty and confident.”
Shakira loves a Brazilian
Shakira made history on Saturday as she played one of the highest attended concerts of all timeCredit: EPAMore than 2million fans saw the Colombian superstar play a free gig at Copacabana Beach in Rio De JaneiroCredit: GettyShe wore ten costumes, many of which were made by local designers – including a jumpsuit with Swarovski crystals in the pattern of the Brazilian flagCredit: Getty
SHAKIRA made history on Saturday as she played one of the highest attended concerts of all time.
More than 2million fans saw the Colombian superstar play a free gig at Copacabana Beach in Rio De Janeiro.
During the spectacular show, the She Wolf singer wore ten costumes, many of which were made by local designers – including a jumpsuit with Swarovski crystals in the pattern of the Brazilian flag.
More than 1,500 drones lit up the sky before Shakira took to the stage.
And the singer was later joined by Anitta to perform their new single, Choka Choka.
Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Tour will come to Europe in September, where she will play 11 nights at the purpose-built Shakira Stadium in Madrid.
The BBC star, who will be commentating on the song contest in Vienna on May 16, said the live final is such a slog, he needs a drink to get through it.
On Alan Carr’s Bottoms Up! podcast, Graham said former host Terry Wogan called him before his first ever contest in Moscow with some tips.
He said: “The only bit of advice he gave me was, ‘Don’t have a drink before song nine’.
“But I’m drinking whatever I can lay my hands on because it’s a long old stretch.”
Graham also admitted that refreshments are not easy to source at the venues, saying “normally, it’s smuggled in”.
But he knows better than to overdo it during the live show.
Given the quality of some of the songs, I’m amazed he can wait until number nine.
OLIVIA RODRIGO mocked Jake Paul as she hosted Saturday Night Live in the US.
Speaking about the boxer, who she starred with on the Disney show Bizaardvark a decade ago, Olivia said: “We’d always talk about our futures, me and Jake.
“I’d say, ‘I wanna create music that explores the complexities of girls my age’, and he’d say, ‘One day I wanna beat up old guys on Netflix’.”
LIAM AND NOEL NOT IN TUNE
LIAM GALLAGHER has admitted he’s in the dark when it comes to the new music his brother Noel has been writing – and whether it could be for Oasis.
Last month, Noel revealed he had been “in the studio, noodling away” on new tunes.
But when asked about it on X at the weekend, Liam was none the wiser.
He said: “I’ve not heard anything unless he’s doing a solo album, which would be a real shame, I mean really good.”
When someone else commented: “So he just doesn’t tell you his plans?” he replied: “Pretty much.”
Given how much Liam spouts off online, I can’t really blame Noel for keeping schtum.
Spotted looking chic
Nicole Scherzinger looked chic in a polka dot dress as she sang the US national anthem at Saturday’s Kentucky DerbyCredit: Getty
While Nicole looked chic in a polka dot dress as she sang the US national anthem at Saturday’s Kentucky Derby, Ashley Roberts and Kimberly Wyatt were busy going through their paces during rehearsals.
The Dolls, who are now a trio, kick off their reunion tour in California in a month’s time, before shows on this side of the Atlantic in September.
If their tour is anything like their shows back in the day, they will have a lot of dance moves to learn between now and then.
THE WEEK IN BIZNESS
TODAY: Beyonce chairs the glitzy Met Gala in New York, where she is expected to tease details of her highly anticipated new album.
TUESDAY: Spanish singer/songwriter Rosalia brings her critically acclaimed Lux Tour to London’s O2 Arena for two nights.
WEDNESDAY: Rockers No Doubt return to the stage for the opening night of their Las Vegas reunion residency at state-of-the-art music venue, Sphere.
SUNDAY: The Bafta TV Awards take place at London’s Royal Festival Hall, where Adolescence leads the nominations. The show, hosted by Greg Davies, airs on BBC One.
MATT GOSS has revealed how he bravely stood up to muggers who tried to steal his gold Rolex watch.
The former Bros singer sat down with Biz On Sunday’s Emily to speak about the scary incident, which occurred while he was walking his dog Reggie with fiancée Chantal Brown.
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Former Bros singer Matt Goss has revealed how he fought off muggers trying to steal his rolexCredit: Paul HarriesMatt told Biz On Sunday’s Emily Webber that he would love to reunite on stage with his brother Luke againCredit: Supplied
Matt, who is back in the studio at London’s famous Abbey Road, said: “We were approached by two people asking for directions.
“We were friendly and tried to help them, but when I pointed the way, they noticed the watch on my wrist.
“One of them immediately became aggressive, trying to distract me by dancing while also grabbing at my wrist.
“I reacted instinctively and, feeling threatened, pushed my head into his before telling him firmly: ‘Don’t you dare’.
“Chantal and I then went straight into a nearby hotel and called the police.”
Matt, who was born in Lewisham, South East London, where he grew up with twin brother and fellow Bros star Luke Goss, said he would like to see more police on the streets.
He added: “I do feel safe in London overall, but I find it sad that, in such a beautiful city, you can’t always wear something nice without concern.
“I truly wish we still had more bobbies on the beat, with that sense of community, presence and understanding of the local area.”
Matt is back in the UK after spending 25 years in America, where he had a highly successful residency in Las Vegas for 11 years.
His new track, Thank You For The Pain, is out now and will form part of his upcoming album scheduled for September 29.
Matt said: “It’s back to commercial music. I love performing live and I loved the Vegas show and I am super proud of that.
“But there is something about going in the doors at Abbey Road that gives you a sense of occasion and, ‘you better bring your A-game’. It really makes you step up more because of the history.”
He added: “You are going into your church and you are baring all and being extremely truthful. Thank You For The Pain is about turning your pain into something that makes you a better person.
“We have all been hurt by people and that song really helps you recognise what hurts makes you stronger.”
Matt sold 17million records in the Eighties boyband Bros, with the brothers making their big breakthrough in 1988 with Top Ten single When Will I Be Famous?
But after the boyband split up in 1992, the pair went their separate ways until reforming in 2017 to play two dates at London’s O2 Arena.
The lead-up to the comeback was filmed for documentary Bros: After The Screaming Stops, which also showed the ongoing tension between the twins.
Matt revealed in 2024 that they were “completely estranged”.
But he is hopeful that they may manage to sort out their differences and step out on stage together once again.
He said: “I would love nothing more than to jump on stage with my brother again, I’m pretty sure we don’t hate each other but we have stuff to sort out.
“I believe there is respect for each other. I’d love to do Glastonbury with my brother.”
MATT GOSS has given Biz On Sunday readers the first full clip of his new video, Thank You For The Pain. It is Matt’s first animated video and is created by Nobody Asked Studios.
A source said: “Matt is a huge fan of Nobody Asked Studios and the track worked perfectly with the animated style.”
Millie’s book Taylor made
Millie Mackintosh is working on a new book following her recent split from Hugo TaylorCredit: Getty
The ex-Made In Chelsea star is working with publisher Little, Brown Group on a new book.
A source said: “Millie’s been through a lot in the last year and she’s writing it all down.
“Her first book was about her sobriety, but this one will look at motherhood, her ADHD diagnosis and the changes in her personal life, including her split from Hugo.
“Writing is very cathartic for Millie, so it’s also helping her process what’s been going on in her life. She will reveal a lot about the breakdown of her marriage and there will likely be a few surprises.
“Millie really wants to be honest and relatable.”
The book comes after Millie’s first husband, rapper Professor Green, gushed about her recently . . .
Zara’s Shak for more
Zara Larsson has joined forces with Shakira to remix her track EurosummerCredit: InstagramShakira reached out to congratulate pal Zara on the track’s releaseCredit: Instagram
ZARA LARSSON and Shakira look summer ready after collaborating on a new song.
The Swedish pop star has remixed her track Eurosummer with the Hips Don’t Lie hitmaker.
It comes as Zara releases remix album Midnight Sun: Girls Trip featuring Pinkpantheress, Tyla and Robyn.
Shakira posted on Instagram: “Happy release day, Zara Larsson. Can’t wait for our video to come out.
“In the meantime, starting my Euro summer from Rio.”
Dean’s back on market
HE is known for being a ladies’ man, but it looks like former EastEnders star Dean Gaffney is single once again.
I can reveal that he has split from Harvard graduate Kate Black after dating for a year.
A source said: “Dean and Kate have agreed to go their separate ways. “They enjoyed a whirlwind romance, but decided that their relationship was more friendly.
“Kate wasn’t Dean’s usual type, but he learned a lot from her.”
Kate studied international relations at the top US university and artificial intelligence at the University of York.
A mutual pal introduced them and they started dating in April last year, a month after she split from her long-term boyfriend.
Last June, Dean, who played market sweeper Robbie Jackson in the BBC One soap, was spotted on holiday in Ibiza with Kate.
DJ Greg: Will.I.Am so rude
RADIO 1 DJ GREG JAMES has named The Voice coach Will.I.am as one of the worst famous people he’s ever met and described his music as “s**t”.
Speaking at an intimate gig in North London for the launch of his book, All The Best For The Future, he said: “Will.i.am was a nightmare and he was rude.
“He barged into the studio and had his Bluetooth headset on, even though I was trying to interview him.
“He didn’t say hello to anyone in the room and he was just ignoring everyone.
“Eventually he sat down and took his headset off and I had to interview him. Mad, and his songs are s**t aren’t they? Apart from his Black Eyed Peas track I Gotta Feeling, if we’re being really honest with ourselves.”
I have to disagree. Scream & Shout and Heartbreaker are both bangers…
Stones face music for album launch
The Rolling Stones have teased the cover for their new album Foreign TonguesCredit: InstagramThe Rolling Stones’ album will be released in July and a clock is ticking downCredit: Getty
THE ROLLING STONES have teased the cover for their much-anticipated new album as they prepared for its press launch this week.
A poster appeared on social media yesterday showing Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood imagined as one face. The eyecatching design was dreamt up by American painter Nathaniel Mary Quinn.
On Tuesday, the band will hold the press launch of the new record, Foreign Tongues, in New York. Then, on Wednesday, Mick Jagger will appear on The Tonight Show, hosted by Jimmy Fallon.
The US TV star presented a global press conference in 2023 in East London for the band’s last album, Hackney Diamonds.
A countdown clock for the new record, out on July 10, has now appeared outside the group’s merchandise store on London’s Carnaby Street. It also shows the album’s title written in a variety of different languages.
One staff member claimed everyone was sworn to secrecy, adding: “I plead the Fifth Amendment.”
Another said: “They have not told us anything in case it backfires on them.”
And, yet again, the band have also updated their famous tongue logo, originally created by British art student John Pasche in 1970.
Last month, The Stones released a vinyl-only single, Rough & Twisted, under the pseudonym The Cockroaches. Meanwhile, I revealed that PAUL McCARTNEY will also feature on a new album track following his cameo on Hackney Diamonds.
Sounds like this is going to be the album of the year.
ZAYN Malik shared a heartfelt statement with fans after cancelling 22 gigs following his shock hospitalisation.
The former One Direction star revealed he is now back at home and recovering from his mystery illness – but his world tour dates have taken a hit.
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Zayn Malik was hospitalised with a mystery illness recently, but has since revealed he is back at homeCredit: GettyHis illness was severe enough to force him to cancel a mass of tour datesCredit: Getty
The singer has been forced to cancel the entire US leg of his KONNAKOL tour, as well as some UK performances.
In an Instagram story today, he wrote: “To my fans : Thank you so much for all the support and love you’ve shown me on the album release and more importantly, your love, prayers and well wishes for my health.
“I’ve felt it, and it’s meant the world. I’ve been at home recovering and I’m doing well and will be better and stronger than before.
“I’ve had to take another look at my schedule for the months ahead and reduce the number of shows on the KONNAKOL Tour.
Zayn previously shared a photo of himself in hospitalCredit: Instagram/ZaynZayn and Louis Tomlinson reportedly had a falling out on the set of their Netflix documentaryCredit: Instagram
“I want to make sure I still get out and see as many of you as I possibly can. I’m really looking forward to playing these shows for you, and I hope to see the rest of you around the world very soon.”
The cause of Zayn’s hospitalisation is not yet known, but in a previous statement, he thanked his cardiologist, which suggests it could be to do with his heart and or blood vessels.
Alongside a photo of him in a hospital bed, he wrote: “To my fans – thank you to all of you for your love and support now and always.
“[It’s] been a long week and am still unexpectedly recovering. Heartbroken that I can’t see you all this week, I wouldn’t be in the place I am today without you guys and am so thankful for your understanding.
“Thank you to the incredible hospital staff or Drs, nurses, cardiologists, management, admin, and everyone who has helped along the way and continue to. You are all legends! Big big love xxx z.”
The health scare came amid the revelation from The Sun that Zayn had punched his close pal and former band member Louis Tomlinson as they found themselves in a vicious row whilst filming for their new Netflix documentary.
Louis and Zayn were joining forces to film a three-part road trip docuseries for the streaming service, which has since been axed.
Sources told The Sun their astonishing on-set row was triggered by a remark from Zayn about Louis’ mum Johannah Deakin, who died of leukaemia in 2016.
The Sun understands Louis and Zayn have not spoken since the incident six months ago.
THE black leather biker jacket George Michael wore for the music video of 1987 hit Faith fetched £176,400 at auction.
Organisers said “a fan” bought the item, made by London fashion brand La Rocka, and confirmed it would remain in the UK.
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George Michael’s leather BSA jacket fetched £176,400 at auctionCredit: GettyIt was first purchased for around £290, and he wore it on his Faith World Tour in 1988Credit: PA
The jacket, which George also wore on his 1988 Faith tour, features a BSA logo on the back embellished with crystals.
When first sold in La Rocka’s London shop, the jackets cost £290.
Also sold at the Propstore auction in London was a Gibson Les Paul ’59 once owned by Slash of Guns N’ Roses.
It fetched £233,100, a record for a guitar at auction.
It was one of 327 rare instruments, handwritten lyrics, stage-used pieces, and iconic personal artefacts sold at the event, which achieved an auction total of £1.9m.
Further success came from the sale of Peter Hince’s Queen collection, which realised a total of £350,000.
Lots from the former roadie for the legendary rock band were led by Freddie Mercury’s Gold Shure 565 SD Microphone Award, the first of his microphones with direct provenance to come to market, which sold for £151,200.
Peter Hince said: “I’m absolutely thrilled with how the auction has turned out, especially seeing Freddie’s gold microphone achieve such a strong price.
“It means a lot to know these pieces are going to fans who truly appreciate what Queen meant and still means today.”
A poster signed by John Lennon, one of the last four items he signed, was sold for £75,600 and Oasis hitmaker Noel Gallagher’s Les Paul Custom 20th Anniversary Guitar also sold for £34,650.
The fedora worn by Michael Jackson in his 1987 Pepsi commercial sold for an eye-watering £34,650.
Lewis Capaldi had to halt one of his shows in the US due to a technical difficultyCredit: InstagramHe kept the crowd entertained during the error, then decided to sing the song without any backing music insteadCredit: Instagram
But during his gig at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre he encountered a major technical issue, leaving him unable to sing.
Lewis giggled next to the mic, sharing with the crowd: “Something has happened. Usually I’d be singing by now.
“Something technological has gone wrong. I’m not sure what the f***s happened.”
He then joked: “This feels like… erectile dysfunction in a way,” before checking in with his team to see if the error had been fixed.
Fans adored the acoustic performance, saying they were glad to be part of the “technical difficulties”Credit: GettyLewis is currently on his Survive tour after taking a hiatus from musicCredit: Getty
After learning it hadn’t, Lewis continued to entertain the crowd, saying: “Right, we’re not back. Hi.”
Fans of the musician found the moment hilarious and loved the way he chose to handle it – both with humour and then by deciding to go ahead with an acoustic performance while the tech issue was fixed.
One user on Instagram said: “Who needs all the technology with a voice like that?!?”
A second shared: “It was a once in a lifetime experience and we were very excited to be part of the “technical issue”.
A third added: “Well no one can claim he can’t sing live.”
Lewis’ tour shares the same name as his latest EP release which came out last year.
The new music followed him taking a two-year hiatus from the industry, after his anxiety and Tourette’s syndrome symptoms increased.
After Lewis finishes up his shows in America, he’s due to perform in Vancouver before heading over to the UK.
His first UK tour date is on June 19, taking place at the Isle Of Wight Festival.
SHE’S been branded arrogant, entitled and irritating by people who’ve watched her growing up on The Kardashians.
And as I braced myself to listen to North West’s debut EP N0rth4evr, I was expecting to absolutely hate it. But in all honesty, I love it.
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North West has released her debut EP N0rth4evr – and it is surprisingly goodCredit: SplashThe 12-year-old daughter of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian does actually have talentCredit: Getty
The six-track record proves that the 12-year-old daughter of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian does actually have talent.
She mixes heavy-metal guitar riffs with rage-rap and a flavour of the Japanese culture she loves so much.
Critics will argue that having two of the most famous people on the planet as parents would mean she couldn’t produce something that’s utterly rubbish.
But I’d argue North has a flair of originality and authenticity on all the tracks.
Kanye West’s daughter North has a flair of originality and authenticity on all the tracksCredit: PAShe samples Mumford & Sons’ 2009 track Little Lion Man on punchy and pacy Th!s t!meCredit: Getty Images – Getty
She samples Mumford & Sons’ 2009 track Little Lion Man on punchy and pacy Th!s t!me, and the final 28 seconds of W0ah crunching has an electric guitar solo.
For a child who has grown up knowing only fame and privilege, North carries the expectations on her shoulders in her lyrics.
No doubt she’s had a big helping hand, working with American rock siblings Meg and Dia Frampton, but it opens your eyes to what life might really be like as a kid everyone thinks they know.
On How I Feel, North sings: “In the back of the Lamb’, it get lonely, they be all up in my comments like they know me.
“If they approach me no phones please, lot of eyes on me that I don’t need.”
While on Th!s t!me, she raps: “They hear the name, they don’t hear what I’m sayin’.
“They want the fame, but you know I ain’t playin’.”
North4evr links to Kanye’s 2018 track Violent Crimes, where he rapped about protecting daughter North from danger.
On it, she sings: “So much people ’round me, but I know they all fake, so much goin’ in my head that I can’t say.
“Know my minds in a place that is not safe.”
She balances the pitfalls with plenty of not-so- humble brags though, and on D!e boasts about her influence on fashion and culture.
The track, which contains some influences of Post Malone, has her rapping: “How am I younger than you, but I’m who you look up to?
“Once they on trend, I’m already off it.
“I’m a rock star, you could tell by my closet. Once they on trend, I’m already off it.”
The apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree, clearly.
Beyonce has dropped yet another hint that her new rock-inspired album is comingCredit: She posted a video of Destiny’s Child hanging out with Fleetwood Mac singer Stevie Nicks in 2001Credit: X
BEYONCE’s next era is just around the corner – and she’s dropped yet another hint that her new rock-inspired album is waiting.
The singer removed all the country- inspired Cowboy Carter merchandise from her website last night as she prepares to start promoting the record.
Bey also dropped another big clue about the direction she is heading by posting a video on her website of Destiny‘s Child hanging out with Fleetwood Mac singer Stevie Nicks on the set of their Bootylicious video from 2001.
As I told you last week, Beyonce is planning to reveal all about her new record around the Met Gala in New York on Monday.
The album, believed to be called Betty Black, is the third in a trilogy of records following on from 2022’s Renaissance and Cowboy Carter in 2024.
We first revealed in July that Beyonce was working on a rock-themed album.
She hinted the record could be called Betty Black in a reclaiming of the African-American work song Black Betty which was remade in 1977 by rock group Ram Jam.
He has also rescheduled the Manchester AO Arena gig to May 24.
His concert at London’s O2 Arena is still planned to take place on May 23.
Zayn said he was recovering and wanted to come back “stronger”.
Roses taxman tussle
The Stone Roses have been stuck in a secret battle with HMRC over their former touring firmCredit: Getty
THE STONE ROSES have been locked in a secret 13-year battle with the taxman involving their failed touring company.
HMRC has been fighting the indie rockers – who made £26million from two huge reunion tours – over an unpaid £127,000 corporation tax bill from BMSW Ltd.
Over the years, the figure has risen to £158,000. The touring firm collapsed and went into liquidation.
Documents filed at Companies House reveal the Roses tried to close down BMSW Ltd in July 2013 after the end of the first tour, with £10million being distributed to the band after paying a £3.1million tax bill.
But there was a change in HMRC policy, which meant liquidators asked the group – late bassist Gary Mounfield, singer Ian Brown, guitarist John Squire and drummer Alan Wren – for £32,000 each.
That was received badly by the lads, below, who felt “extremely aggrieved” after signing an indemnity protecting them from such a liability.
It meant the firm moved from a member’s voluntary liquidation into a creditor’s voluntary liquidation in 2022 . . . and the battle is still going on.
Graham: Traitors turn-off
Graham Norton says he is not interested in taking part in Celebrity Traitors for one clear reasonCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
“I WAS a bit of a Duracell bunny,” confesses Iron Maiden’s irrepressible Bruce Dickinson.
“To some extent, I still am — much to the dismay of people around me! They’re like, ‘Don’t you EVER stop?’”
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Bruce on the No Prayer On The Road tour in 1990Credit: Ross HalfinWith mascot Eddie in JapanCredit: Ross Halfin
Dickinson is reflecting on the manic energy he brought to the heavy metal titans after replacing original singer Paul Di’Anno.
In 1981, he was a 22-year-old member of hard-rocking fellow travellers Samson when Maiden’s manager Rod Smallwood came calling.
Unlike many of his peers, including his predecessor, Dickinson didn’t have to rely on drugs and booze to fuel his high-octane performances.
He continues: “I discovered that having these amazing, ecstatic, endorphin-filled moments — being in front of people and singing with a group in total sync — was way more uplifting than any drugs on offer.”
Iron Maiden on tour in 1990Credit: Ross HalfinSteve Harris on stage during the World Piece Tour in 1983Credit: ROSS HALFIN
One of the great spectacles in rock is a sweat-soaked Dickinson running and jumping around on stage with audiences in the palms of his outstretched hands.
Match his physical presence to a rich operatic tenor and an iconic catchphrase, “Scream for me!”, and you have a powerful combination.
The songs that stretch his vocal cords aren’t too shabby either — many filled with intriguing historical references.
Run To The Hills deals with European colonisation of Native American territory, The Trooper visits the Crimean War’s Charge Of The Light Brigade and Aces High is a pilot’s eye-view of the Battle Of Britain — not your average metalhead subject matter.
Bruce and Steve backstage on their Fear Of The Dark tour in 1992Credit: ROSS HALFINBruce pictured in 2022Credit: John McMurtrie
What about the 14-minute Rime Of The Ancient Mariner, based on Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem and written by Maiden founder and leader Steve Harris?
“It’s just epic,” says Dickinson of the closing track on the band’s fifth album Powerslave, released in 1984.
“It’s one of my favourites to perform.
“I love the storytelling aspect and we’ve got huge screens now to tell the whole story.”
Let’s also not forget the enduring core band which today comprises bassist and chief lyricist Harris, three virtuoso guitarists in Dave Murray, Adrian Smith and Jannick Gers, mighty drummer Nicko McBrain (now retired from touring after a stroke in 2023) — and, of course, Dickinson.
The singer remembers Maiden’s gruelling, breathless climb to metal’s summit in the Eighties, when he was “run ragged but young enough to handle it”.
Now 67, he accepts that his unfettered antics have taken their toll on his body, but insists: “Damaging it and knackering it by doing things on stage is a relatively easy fix — drugs take away your soul.”
I’m speaking to Dickinson to mark the arrival in cinemas next Thursday of Iron Maiden: Burning Ambition, a riveting film documenting their 50-year rollercoaster ride with insightful interviews, live footage and unguarded offstage moments.
Through the prism of band members past and present, and superfans including Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, Public Enemy rapper Chuck D and actor Javier Bardem, it is 106 minutes of pedal to the metal.
The movie is the first milestone in a momentous year for the band formed in Leyton, East London, by Harris in 1975.
In late May, Maiden continue the Run For Your Lives world tour, including a monster outdoor event, Eddfest (named after their shape-shifting undead mascot Eddie), at Knebworth on July 10 and 11.
Then, in November, they join Oasis, Phil Collins and Billy Idol, among others, in being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in the US.
Dickinson says: “We’re about to do the biggest tour of our lives, playing to 2.5million people in six months.
“People might say, ‘How the hell did that happen?’ to which I answer, ‘Have a look at the film — that is how’.
“We’ve had lots of tidal waves and earthquakes in our career.”
Crucial to the upward trajectory has been the sense of community around Maiden and their fans, which Dickinson believes is only rivalled by “a very different kind of band, the Grateful Dead and their Deadheads”.
He says: “We’ve never compromised and have grown on our own terms, creating our own universe.
ON CANCER: ‘A PROFOUND EFFECT ON ME’
IN 2014, Bruce Dickinson faced one of the biggest challenges – and it had a profound effect.
“I discovered I had a three-and-a-half centimetre tumour at the base of my tongue,” he says. “And another one in my lymph node.”
He recalls how he felt at the time of his devastating throat cancer diagnosis: “You’ve had scans, you’ve had biopsies and you’re sitting there at home, going, ‘I’m not dreaming, this is real’.
“You start wondering what it feels like to die and you have to own up to these thoughts.”
Dickinson adopted a positive approach. “I decided to take proactive measures and to make the assumption I could beat this.
“I fattened myself up, eating like a pig over Christmas. By the time I went into treatment, I was 75 kilos and just under 67 when I came out. Some people lose a lot more, so I got off lightly.
“I had 33 radiation sessions over five weeks and nine weeks of chemo, which knocks the hell out of you. But in May 2015, I got the all clear. All gone. No surgery. Nothing.”
Dickinson reserves huge praise for the medical professionals. “I had a great oncologist and a great team – and I wish that everybody was able to have that.”
And how does he look back on that time? “When I was asked afterwards what effect cancer had on me, I tried to make light of it.
“But recently I realised that it affected me quite profoundly. I’ve always been one to grab life by both hands – now, doing that is more important to me than ever.”
“You reach those millions one person at a time,” he adds. “Look them in the eyes — although that is a lot easier in a pub than in a 50,000-seat arena!”
Though the upcoming tour will send Maiden through Europe, then on to North, Central and South America, Australia and Japan, Dickinson spares a thought for the places they can’t visit “because of the chaos in the world”.
“There are huge pockets of fans in Iran,” he affirms.
“And in Israel, Ukraine and Russia — all these wonderful people who just want to love everybody else who loves Iron Maiden. It’s tragic.”
This is cue for him to trawl through the mists of time to the early days again and it’s clear that, above all, it is Steve Harris’s band.
Referred to as “the boss”, he formed Maiden just before punk upended the music scene.
Dickinson says: “Steve felt very strongly about punk because many in the media decided it was the ‘acceptable face of heavy metal’ — and that enraged him.
“Frankly, the first LP wasn’t that well produced so it actually sounded like a crap punk album.
“Steve has always said, ‘My God, I wish I could have remade it with Martin Birch [who produced their next eight records].”
In the Burning Ambition film, we see the struggles of original singer, the late Paul Di’Anno, who embraced rock and roll excesses to the full, prompting Harris and Smallwood to search for a replacement.
“Paul was very charismatic with a characterful voice,” says his successor. “He was a bit of a pirate . . . like Adam Ant or a member of band I loved, Johnny Kidd & The Pirates.
“His look was different to the rest of the metal world — and that was cool.”
With a rueful expression, Dickinson remembers being described as a “human air-raid siren” after his first gig with Maiden.
He says: “They were obviously big fans of Paul who came to see me at the [now defunct] Rainbow and one of them sent a letter to a music magazine, Melody Maker maybe.
“It said what a terrible disaster the show was, like ‘hearing my favourite songs being sung from inside a cement mixer by an air-raid siren’.
“Even though someone was trying to be insulting, Rod Smallwood took the attitude, ‘When life throws lemons, make lemonade’.
“He nicked the idea and turned the whole thing on its head, which actually made me laugh.”
ON EDDIE: ‘EASTWOOD OF ZOMBIES’
MENACING mascot Eddie is an Iron Maiden icon.
Illustrated in numerous guises by Derek Riggs, the shape-shifting creature has appeared on every album cover and in every outlandish stage set.
He inspired the name of the band’s outdoor shindig Eddfest at Knebworth in July and features in new animated sequences for the Burning Ambition movie.
Bruce Dickinson calls Eddie the “Clint Eastwood of zombies” and says: “He has a Dirty Harry type of morality about him.
“You think he’s evil but he’s ambivalent, so you don’t know exactly where you stand with him,” he explains.
“If you’re basically a good person, you’re probably going to be OK – but he’ll blow you away if you’re not!”
Dickinson believes Eddie has a future beyond Maiden. “One day, inevitably, we’ll stop playing live.
“The great thing about Eddie is that he’s eternal. He can have a whole career on his own. We could even write albums for him.
“In fact, there’s so much you could do with him, whether it’s movies, animation, or an Eddie avatar show. All these things are up for grabs.”
To Dickinson, sharing the stage with Eddie is a rite of passage.
“He’s an extension of our world but you just can’t pin him down.”
A fascinating aspect of Maiden has been Dickinson’s relationship with Harris, not always plain sailing but one that created undeniable chemistry.
And surely Harris accepts that the flamboyant singer helped propel his band to stadium-slaying proportions.
“When I was in Samson, people were calling Steve ‘the Ayatollah’,” says Dickinson. “He had a reputation for being uncompromising and rigid.
“But, as we’ve got older, he’s been much more amenable to ideas that might broaden the vision.”
However, Dickinson had to set one thing straight from the start.
“When I first did shows with Maiden, I was thinking, ‘Why am I standing on one side of the stage? I’m the singer’.
“The answer was because Steve would go running down front and centre playing the bass. Suddenly I would have this big old lump of wood thrust in my ear. I nearly lost a couple of teeth because of it!”
Dickinson insisted that, as lead singer, he was going to “stand at the front, in the middle — and I wasn’t going to back down”.
Iron Maiden’s third album, The Number Of The Beast (1982), was Dickinson’s first and its songs including the title track, Run To The Hills and Hallowed Be Thy Name took the band to the next level.
For the new recruit, making the album was the calm before the storm.
He says: “It was like 1939 when Britain was at war but everybody was still out sunbathing and reading the papers because nothing bad had happened.
“Then we hit the road and, wow, we had a No1 album, the single was going crazy and we were doing seven, eight, nine shows in a row. Even our day off was travelling.”
Despite the overwhelming demands, Maiden enjoyed a rocket-fuelled rise to the crest of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), a movement that included Def Leppard, Saxon and Motörhead.
Dickinson says: “The albums we were producing in the Eighties were phenomenal. We created a style with The Number Of The Beast and it continued with Piece Of Mind and Powerslave. The trajectory was fantastic.”
As the Burning Ambition movie attests, the band began building a devoted following in all corners of the globe.
In August 1984, Iron Maiden ventured behind the Iron Curtain to play five shows in Poland, much to delight of fans starved of music from the West.
In January the following year, the band went nuclear in South America by playing Rock In Rio to a 300,000-plus crowd.
ON FLYING: ‘I HAD ROAD TO DAMASCUS MOMENT’
ANYONE who follows the life less ordinary of Bruce Dickinson will know there’s a lot more to him than just being the singer in Iron Maiden.
At school, he took up boxing but he “wasn’t very big” and people “would beat the crap out of me”.
So he took up fencing instead, inspired by a metalwork teacher who brought in a “full-on, two-handed sword like Excalibur”.
Not one to do things by halves, he became a champion – so good that he reached the UK top ten, trained with the Olympic squad and is still a member of fencing clubs in London, Paris and LA.
Dickinson harboured other dreams, too. “I was really into aviation and wanted to be an astronaut or a pilot,” he says.
This helps explain how he qualified as an airline pilot and ended up flying Iron Maiden on three world tours, firstly in a Boeing 757 dubbed Ed Force One and then, in 2016 for the Book Of Souls tour, a jumbo jet.
He says: “My love of flying came from my great uncle who was in No. 200 Squadron RAF in the Second World War. When I was five, he’d tell me all these stories.
“But I was rubbish at maths in school and you need to be a rocket scientist to be a pilot so I became a rock star instead.
“Then, in the Nineties, I took a trial flying lesson in Florida for 30 bucks, just to see. It was a road to Damascus moment.”
The next step for Dickinson was training with British Airways, flying a 757. Picking up the story, he says: “From 2000 to 2011, I was a pilot for UK company Astraeus, flying people around the world on holiday. I had to take unpaid leave to go on tour with Iron Maiden.
“You would probably have had no idea I was your captain because no one listens to captain’s announcements!”
During this time, Dickinson hatched the idea to extend his flying exploits to his other job as a member of Iron Maiden.
“I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool if we put all the equipment, the band and the crew on one airplane?’ To my surprise, our manager Rod thought it was a great idea. Normally, I get told to p*** off!
“So we did three world tours. It was brilliant calling it Ed Force One – I think that was an invention by the fans.”
Dickinson remembers his initial horror when American secret servicemen boarded the plane in Chicago. “I went, ‘Oh s**t! What have we done wrong?’ Turned out Obama was coming in the next day on Air Force One and the men just wanted to have a look at Ed Force One.
“I’ve still got Air Force One-branded M&Ms, matches and a bottle opener somewhere.
“So, I’m thinking, ‘What’s going on in the President’s plane?’ They’re cracking open beer bottles, smoking themselves to death and taking all the red Smarties.”
As the Eighties progressed and the Nineties dawned, the pace rarely slackened and, as we witness in unvarnished detail in Burning Ambition, “the wheels eventually fell off”.
Guitarist Smith quit in 1990 over “creative differences” and an exhausted Dickinson dropped a second bombshell by leaving in 1993 to pursue his solo career, much to the consternation of his bandmates, notably McBrain.
“It was a sudden burst of artistic integrity of my own invention,” confesses Dickinson.
“I knew Maiden were great, but they didn’t allow me to do anything a bit out there.
“I was still in my thirties and the thought of leaving momentarily terrified me. But then I read Henry Miller’s quote, ‘All growth is a leap in the dark, a spontaneous unpremeditated act without the benefit of experience’.
“It hit me like a ton of bricks. I thought to myself, ‘If you don’t jump, you’ll never find out’.”
As for the reaction to his departure in the Maiden camp, Dickinson says: “The only person I told was the manager, Rod. I don’t know what got said between him and the guys but Nicko got upset about it. And fair enough.”
He sees what became a five-year absence as part of “a real story of real people”.
He adds: “We’re a bunch of bizarre brothers who got stuck together. In the end, we had to make it work.”
So it was in 1999, after Wolfsbane singer Blaze Bayley had gamely attempted to hold the fort, that guitarist Smith and singer Dickinson returned to the fold — for good.
“To use a football analogy, Blaze had been passed a ball which was a ticking timebomb,” says Dickinson, before recalling his bizarre meeting with Harris and Smallwood to discuss his return.
They convened in secret at a yacht club in Brighton, entered by a special code — an occasion Dickinson likens to a scene from a John Le Carré novel.
“Part of me was thinking, ‘This is ridiculous’. It felt like going through Checkpoint Charlie in The Spy Who Came In From The Cold,” he says.
“But I looked at Steve and realised he’d been through the ringer with all kinds of things. I decided that if he’s up for it, then we should get on with it.
“I told him, ‘I am the one guy on the planet you can trust. When I say we’ll make a great new album together, we will’. And we did [Brave New World].
“Steve and I are very different individuals — but that’s our strength.
“I’ve certainly grown to respect him. Has he grown to respect me? I don’t want to put words into his mouth.”
Dickinson signs off with a heartfelt statement: “The music is the thread that holds us in Maiden together. Whatever we started, we started well — and when eventually we finish, we will finish well.”
Burning Ambition is in cinemas from May 7. Iron Maiden’s Eddfest takes place at Knebworth on July 10 & 11
TAYLOR SWIFT is proving she doesn’t just top the charts – but is also helping pay the bills of thousands of artists in the industry.
Insiders said the pop powerhouse could be behind a payday worth up to $800million for fellow musicians, thanks to a savvy little move she tucked into her record deal years ago.
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Pop powerhouse Taylor Swift could be behind a huge payday for musiciansCredit: AP
When Taylor signed with Universal Music Group in 2018, she had assurances that if the label ever cashed in its Spotify shares, the artists had to get a slice of the pie.
Now UMG is preparing to flog part of its multi-billion-pound stake in the streaming giant, and a chunky wedge of that cash could be heading straight to the people making hits.
It is thought between $500million and $800million could be shared out, meaning a serious payday for everyone from global superstars to artists still making their way up.
Taylor won’t be out of pocket either, as this will only add another layer to her $1.8billion empire.
From reclaiming her masters to reshaping how streaming pays out, she’s made a habit of shaking up the system.
And this might just be her most generous plot twist yet.
LEO IS LORD OF THE GRINS
Bridget Jones actor Leo Woodall with girlfriend Meghann FahyCredit: Splash
ONE Day and Bridget Jones actor Leo Woodall is on to a grinner as he spends an evening with girlfriend Meghann Fahy.
The smiling couple put on a united front at The King’s Trust annual gala in New York on Wednesday, proving they’re still very much an item.
Brit Leo and the US actress fell for each other after meeting on the set of The White Lotus in 2022, and now live together in the Big Apple.
We’ll soon be able to see plenty more of him on screen, as he has landed a major role in The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum, which hits cinemas next year.
BREAK-UP AND BABY BATTLE IN NEW JESY DOCUMENTARY
Former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson is making a documentary on baby screening lawsCredit: Instagram/Jesynelson
JESY NELSON is making a documentary about her battle to overhaul baby screening laws.
The former Little Mix singer will launch an hour-long film at Sheffield Docfest on June 11, in which she is shown coming to terms with her twin girls’ diagnosis with SMA type 1.
It will also show her dealing with the breakdown of her relationship with rapper Zion Foster.
Jesy revealed in January that daughters Ocean and Story had the genetic disorder, which results in muscle degeneration.
She said the impact could have been prevented if it had been detected earlier, leading to her fight to get heel prick tests for all newborns.
The film is said to be “raw and powerful”.
Its rundown adds: “The documentary follows Jesy as she comes to terms with what the diagnosis means for her girls, adapts to the everyday challenges of their conditions, and finds her footing as a single mother after the break-up of her relationship.
“It’s a portrait of motherhood, resilience and the fierce determination that comes from knowing that a simple change in the system can save lives.”
The documentary follows on from Jesy Nelson: Life After Little Mix, which aired on Prime Video earlier this year, although no date has been set for its release.
OLIVIA IN A BUNNY MOOD
Olivia Rodrigo poses in a flowing dress and bunny shoesCredit: Morgan Maher for CosmopolitanSinger Olivia on the cover of Cosmopolitan magazineCredit: Unknown
OLIVIA RODRIGO is ready to get back in the swing of things by announcing a massive tour, less than a year after headlining Glastonbury.
The singer, who posed in a flowing dress and bunny shoes for Cosmopolitan magazine, will hit the road for her third run of headline shows, called The Unraveled Tour, in September.
UK fans might face a scrap for tickets when they go on pre-sale next Tuesday ahead of a general sale on Thursday.
Her only dates in Blighty so far are four shows at London’s O2 Arena, in April next year.
It comes ahead of the release of her third album, You Seem Pretty Sad For A Girl So In Love, on June 12.
She told Cosmo of the record: “I was really excited to write about joy, love, and passion in a way that I had never really done.
“Most of my big songs are about being sad, angry, heartbroken.
“Sometimes I listen back to it and I cringe.
“It’s cringier to be happy.
“I cringe, but I’m free.”
JACKO FILM SEQUEL AFTER ‘GAMBLE’ HIT
LIONSGATE studio boss Adam Fogelson has revealed Michael Jackson’s story isn’t stopping at just one film.
He’s confirmed a sequel, and reckons rival companies will be kicking themselves for not moonwalking into the deal sooner.
Michael, starring the singer’s nephew Jaafar Jackson, has become a box office hit, with the biggest global opening weekend for any biopic.
Adam said of a follow-up: “It’s going to happen whether it’s this year or next year.”
He said Lionsgate took a huge gamble backing the project in 2021, due to controversies surrounding the late King of Pop, but insists they knew audiences would turn up.
Adam added: “You know that if this comes together, there is an audience.
“It was one of those rare times where there was nothing but joy.
“There is a massive amount of music and life experience that would fill more than a second movie on its own.”
With Jacko fans already clamouring for more, it looks like this thriller is only just getting started.
MADONNA and Sabrina Carpenter have dropped the biggest release of the week with their collaboration Bring Your Love.
The pair finally put the song out this morning, a fortnight after performing it at Coachella festival in the US.
Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter have dropped the biggest release of the weekCredit: instagram/sabrinacarpenter
Also back today is Becky Hill with Hands On Me, while Bleachers have released I’m Not Joking from their fifth album Everyone For Ten Minutes, which will be out on May 22.
I also recommend Sunderland artist Tom A. Smith’s six-track EP Put On A Record Tommy, featuring Happy Mondays collaborator Rowetta on the title track.
KRIS JENNER is so paranoid, she can’t go for a walk without security by her side.
On her daughter Khloe Kardashian‘s podcast, Khloe In Wonderland, Kris said she lives “crime stories” in her head every day.
Kris Jenner says she can’t go for a walk without security by her sideCredit: Getty
Kris said: “I was on vacation and I felt like taking the bicycle out in front of the villa and riding down to the restaurant.
“I thought, no, because what if I’m riding the bike and somebody jumps out of the bushes, grabs the bike, throws me in the back of a van and takes off?”
Khloe added: “My mom won’t go on a walk in the neighbourhood without security following her in a vehicle.”
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – AUGUST 01: Olivia Rodrigo performs during Lollapalooza at Grant Park on August 01, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Josh Brasted/FilmMagic)Credit: Getty
OLIVIA Rodrigo is set to embark on a huge world tour later this year.
She is releasing a new album in the summer, and to mark it, the superstar singer will be performing across the globe.
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What are Olivia Rodrigo’s UK tour dates?
To mark the release of her upcoming record, Rodrigo is going on a world tour that will span North America, Europe and the UK, with over 60 dates announced.
It is titled ‘The Unravelled Tour’ and will start in the US in September 2026.
The tour will start its UK leg in April 2027, with four nights at London’s O2 Arena the only dates announced so far in Britain. The dates announced for the London shows are:
Tickets for the tour go on general sale on Friday, May 7 at 12pm, and will be available on Ticketmaster here – but there are ways to grab tickets ahead of that date.
There are various presales in which you can secure your place at one of the gigs:
O2 presale – Tuesday May 5 at 10am. Only for O2 customers
Album presale – Tuesday May 5 at 12pm. This is for fans who preorder Olivia’s new album.
American Express presale – Tuesday May 5 at 12pm. For American Express card holders.
There will also be tickets available on secondary ticket websites, such as Viagogo here.
No prices have yet been confirmed for the tour, however for an idea of how much they could be, her 2024 GUTS tour ranged from around £65 to £200 for non-VIP tickets.
Cheaper “silver star” tickets will also be made available during the tour. In the US they’ll cost just $20, with the UK dates priced at ‘a local currency equivalent’.
These tickets will be made available at a later date.
When is Olivia Rodrigo’s new album released?
Olivia’s new album “You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love” comes out on June 12.
So far, she has only released one track from her new record, a song called “Drop Dead”.
WHEN pop superstar Justin Timberlake started dating actress Jessica Biel, they quickly became Hollywood’s hottest couple.
But now, after 14 years of marriage, their relationship is going through a positively chilly phase. For long-suffering Jessica, 44, has drawn a line in the sand following a relentless string of public embarrassments, serving her husband with a brutal ultimatum to clean up his act, or she is out.
Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake have been married for 14 years after tying the knot in Italy in 2012Credit: GettyJustin’s mugshot following his 2024 drink-driving arrestCredit: Rex
From the humiliating release of bodycam footage showing Justin’s June 2024 drink-driving arrest to fresh whispers of intoxicated antics at a Las Vegas golf tournament just weeks ago, the Cry Me A River singer’s fall from grace has pushed his wife to the edge, according to reports.
But the drama doesn’t stop there. Insiders tell The Sun that Justin pulled the plug on a $100 million NSYNC reunion, in a last stand bid to save his marriage.
Behind closed doors, those who work closely with the couple say Jessica has been the “glue” holding the family together.
A well-placed Los Angeles producer, who has worked closely with Jessica, tells The Sun that the actress’s marriage can sometimes be a far cry from the fairytale Justin sold the world in the 2010s.
Justin was pictured in 2019 getting close with co-star Alisha Wainwright, later apologising publiclyCredit: BD1Jessica continued to work on her drama The Better Sister despite Justin Timberlake’s arrestCredit: Splash
The insider says: “Jessica is a superwoman. For the last decade, she has run the home, carried and raised two boys, continued acting and enjoyed success with a production company in Hollywood. Where she has found the time and energy to balance is staggering. She has been the glue.”
The couple’s permanent relocation to the luxury Yellowstone Club in Montana was Jessica’s way to shield their sons, Silas, 11, and Phineas, 5, from the downsides of fame.
“She took huge pride in being a hands-on mother, ensuring that her kids would be raised in the most normal way and not be impacted by LA life or Hollywood temptations and dramas,” the insider explains.
“Her boys are the most important thing in her life, and she will do her utmost to protect them. That would have absolutely been made clear to Justin.”
The couple share two sons, Silas, 11, and Phineas, 5Credit: GettyIndustry figures were shocked when Justin didn’t walk the red carpet to support Jessica during the awards seasonCredit: Instagram/ Jessica Biel
But while Jessica thrives in the tranquillity of the mountains, Justin remains obsessed with the spotlight.
His gruelling Forget Tomorrow world tour, which finally wrapped last summer after more than 100 gigs, kept him away from home for massive chunks of time and put a strain on their marriage.
Our source adds: “When the lights go out, Jessica is still a devoted, hard-working mum wanting to do the best for her kids.
“Justin is committed, but is also balancing this battle to remain a pop star and entertainer. In today’s world, if you disappear for too long, you become forgotten or irrelevant. That is something Justin would never let happen.”
This desperate need for validation, however, has come at a steep personal cost.
Jessica’s own career has been flying high. She poured her heart into her production company, Iron Ocean Productions, and her acclaimed 2025 series The Better Sister earned her a prestigious 2026 Critics’ Choice Award nomination for Best Actress.
Yet, when her big moment arrived in January, her husband was absent from the red carpet.
“Many industry figures were shocked that Justin didn’t walk the carpet to support her,” the producer notes.
“She had been there for him over the previous seven months. Regardless of his recent scandals, it would have been a great public display of unity.”
Justin’s erratic decision making hasn’t just alienated his wife; he has also managed to infuriate his oldest friends.
The Sun can reveal that the singer recently blew a chance to catapult himself back centre stage by walking away from an epic NSYNC 30th anniversary reunion.
The highly lucrative comeback – which included proposals for a live comeback show, a lucrative Las Vegas residency, and a documentary – could have netted the five bandmates a staggering $100 million.
A top music executive, who was intimately involved in the proposals, claimed Justin’s refusal to commit has caused bitter “disdain and disappointment” among his former bandmates.
They said: “Justin let the boys down, and really killed the chance for a special 30th anniversary adventure. The other boys were the driving forces with everyone on board initially… well, that is what they believed.”
“Pinning down Justin just could not be done. It wasn’t so much that he was saying outright no, but more just not committing. There was a real hope for something momentous and exciting to play out, which could have really put them back to the top of the music world again.”
The insider notes that the bond between the five men, who were once like brothers, has been severely damaged.
“Those five men have been friends through many highs and lows. But this took something away from that bond. Publicly, of course, they will always support Justin, but this was really seen as a wasted chance to make magic happen.”
But those close to Justin say that walking away from the NSYNC reunion was an attempt to rebalance his work with his family life and repair his relationship with his wife.
Justin’s reluctance to embark on a massive boyband tour was also undoubtedly influenced by his latest health battle.
Last summer, the singer revealed he had been diagnosed with Lyme disease, a debilitating bacterial infection that wreaked havoc on him both mentally and physically.
Jessica, ever the dutiful wife, stepped up to the plate.
Our source says: “Last summer Jessica really urged her husband to slow down, recover fully and seek the best medical advice. There was a huge sense that Justin really had a tough time on the road doing the dance moves and powering through so many shows with his medical issues.”
“Jessica was really kind, caring, and sympathetic. Justin’s mood and outlook was hit quite hard at the diagnosis. The reality is that his entire future as a performer is potentially on the line given how debilitating Lyme disease can be.”
Even the music executive admitted that the health crisis “must have played a key factor in him stepping back” from the NSYNC tour, though they noted that “there were projects like a doc film which would not have needed him to dance or perform”.
Despite her immense sympathy for his health struggles, Jessica’s patience with Justin’s headline-grabbing antics is running dry.
It’s not the first time he has embarrassed his wife. In 2019, The Sun revealed pictures of him drinking and holding hands with his Palmer co-star Alisha Wainwright.
Justin was forced to admit he had been drinking alcohol during the encounter, describing it as a “strong lapse of judgement” but insisted “nothing happened”.
He also added a grovelling apology to his family, writing: “I drank way too much that night and regret my behaviour. I should have known better. This is not the example I want to set for my son.”
“I apologise to my amazing wife and family for putting them through such an embarrassing situation, and I am focused on being the best husband and father I can be.”
Then in 2024, Justin was arrested for drink-driving. The police bodycam footage was released earlier this year, and shows the slurring singer complaining to cops that they were ruining his “world tour”.
Jessica distracted from the embarrassing footage and posted a loved-up snap with her husband on February 1st, captioning it: “Happy 45th to a true original. I love you baby.”
But then last week on April 18 eyewitness reports say that Justin once-again appeared intoxicated at a golf tournament in Las Vegas.
Since then, Page Six reported Jessica was ready to “pull the trigger” on the marriages, with an insider adding: “There’s not much more she can take.”
Now with an ultimatum on the table it appears Jessica is officially done playing the doting wife.
Our source said: “Knowing what a straight shooter she is, there is no way she would hold back on telling her husband exactly how she feels.”
If Justin doesn’t clean up his act, it could be Jessica saying “Bye Bye Bye” to their marriage once and for all.
Jessica and Justin’s representatives were contacted for comment.
NICOLA Roberts has revealed she underwent secret surgery at 22 weeks into her pregnancy.
The Girls Aloud singer, 40, is currently expecting her first child with fiancé Mitch Hahn and is set to give birth in the coming months.
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As she counts down to giving birth, Nicola Roberts has revealed she underwent secret surgery 22 weeks into her pregnancyCredit: Instagram/ @nicolarobertsThe mum-to-be revealed that the procedure was done to ‘keep the baby in’ as she shared the news in a postCredit: Getty
In a new post, Nicola shared a myriad of pictures from the last week, and revealed she had actually recovering after undergoing a medical procedure.
Sharing that she had surgery to “keep the baby in” at 22 weeks, Nicola didn’t expand on what had gone on, but did say she was in recovery mode.
The singer wrote to her page: “Some pics I took this week.. Hasn’t it been so nice to really feel spring..
“I’ve been under instruction not to do much since I had the surgery at 22 weeks to help keep baby in.
The Girls Aloud star is set to give birth in the next month and has been winding down ahead of the new chapterCredit: Instagram/ @nicolarobertsShe is expecting the little one with fiancé Mitch HahnCredit: Instagram/lilnicola
“Hitting that 34 week mark was a big relief. I now only have a few weeks left. Safe to say, this last bit is not the easiest is it?!
“In one breath, it will be nice to feel more comfortable again but I will also really miss my bump and having this tiny little thing in there”.
In her carousel of pictures, Nicola snapped a selfie in bed with a hot drink as she displayed her blossoming bump.
Whilst another showed the Moses basket she has prepared ahead of the little one’s arrival, with other snaps giving a glimpse into the pregnant star’s relaxed week at home.
Nicola didn’t reveal which surgery she had undergone or why, but there are several procedures which can be carried out mid-pregnancy to prevent problems further down the line.
OLLY MURS is taking a leap into the unknown on a brutal 250-mile challenge for Unicef’s Soccer Aid.
In an exclusive chat with Bizarre, the singer revealed he will run, row and cycle from Manchester United’s Old Trafford to West Ham’s London Stadium across five punishing days for Olly Murs: Into The Unknown.
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Olly Murs is taking on a brutal 250-mile challenge for Unicef’s Soccer AidCredit: Tom Dymond for UNICEF
He admitted that a life-changing trip to Romania had given the challenge a whole new meaning.
The Troublemaker star travelled to Eastern Europe to see the charity’s work first-hand, and was moved after meeting mum-of-one Oksana, who escaped Ukraine after Russia invaded and is now living in a Unicef facility in Romania.
“Her baby was only seven months old,” Olly said. “Coming here in the middle of a war on her own, no family, no friends.
He explained: “All I want to do is keep my baby safe and keep the (children) healthy and happy, and that’s the same for every parent around the world.”
Olly and wife Amelia TankCredit: Getty
While the cause is inspiring, the 250 miles sounds absolutely brutal.
In a harsh twist, Olly won’t know exactly what he’ll be facing each day.
He revealed: “It does scare me because it’s really hard when you’re preparing for something when you don’t know the distances.”
Even his birthday is being sacrificed to the cause.
Olly laughed: “The 11th of May is when I start it — my birthday week.
“I’ll be celebrating my birthday whilst running or cycling or rowing somewhere.”
Olly, who has undergone four knee operations, is worried about what impact the arduous challenge will have on his joints.
He added: “I don’t know how my knee’s going to cope. It’s definitely going to have an effect on my body, and my knees.
“But I’m confident that I’m fit enough to do it.”
Olly on his ‘life-changing’ trip to RomaniaCredit: Supplied
Away from the graft of preparing for his charity challenge, Olly says his home life has become his priority, with music temporarily on the back burner.
“I’ve really enjoyed just being at home and not singing any more,” he explained.
“I’m just singing and entertaining my kids.
“I posted a video the other day of me singing to my kids some of my songs and Maddie kept saying ‘No.’
“It’s a tough crowd at home.”
Olly is now hoping he’ll have an easier time on the pitch at Soccer Aid on May 31, when he will line up as part of the England squad alongside Wayne Rooney, Tom Hiddleston, Gk Barry, Jill Scott, Angry Ginge and with SoccerAid founder Robbie Williams as coach.
The Soccer Aid World XI features ex-players Jordi Alba of Spain and Italy’s Leonardo Bonucci, with the team being coached by Olympian Usain Bolt.
FORMER X Factor winner Matt Cardle is set to come face to face with Simon Cowell on live TV again – 16 years after winning the ITV talent show.
I can reveal that Matt is being lined up to perform at one of the Britain’s Got Talent live finals in the coming weeks.
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Former X Factor winner Matt Cardle is set for a live TV reunion with Simon Cowell as he lines up for a performance on Britain’s Got Talent 16 years after his The X Factor winCredit: ITVMatt will take to the stage as part of a special performance of West End hit Kinky Boots, with Simon being a huge fan of musicalsCredit: Getty
Rather than performing new solo music, Matt will take to the stage as part of a special performance of West End hit Kinky Boots.
Bizarre’s Jack hung out on the set of her music video earlier this year, so we can’t wait to see that one live.
Zara‘s feeling f-Lush
Zara Larsson soaks up some rays ahead of headlining Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sunderland next monthCredit: Main Rose/Charlotte RutherfordThis Friday she will release the deluxe version of her fifth album, Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, packed with collaborations, including Tyla and ShakiraCredit: Main Rose/Charlotte Rutherford
Zara Larsson has me counting down the days to my summer holiday after hopping on this float to promote her Main Rose swimwear brand.
She was living her own Lush Life as she soaked up some rays ahead of headlining Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sunderlandnext month.
This Friday she will release the deluxe version of her fifth album, Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, packed with collaborations, including Tyla and Shakira.
And it’s testament to Zara trusting herself.
On writing and recording the track, which came out last year, she said: “I stopped focusing so much on what I thought other people would want from me or what I thought radio would want, and just started focusing on what I wanted to do.
“Ironically that’s when people start caring.”
Liam family praise for Louis’s heartfelt concert
Some of Liam’s relatives, including his sister Nicola, were in a VIP box to see Louis perform at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena last weekendCredit: Getty
“It was extremely emotional, but really beautiful, and it meant a lot to be there.
“Your staging and your songs are beautiful. A truly special night.”
Louis has previously spoken warmly about Liam.
He said: “I could talk all day about how amazing he was.
“We all looked up to him, he was vastly experienced before any of us had done anything.
“If he could just for five minutes live in my head or your head and see how we perceive him, he would be so shocked.
“He was pure.”
Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter’s Coachella collab Bring Your Love drops this Friday as the superstars release the official audioCredit: Instagram
The wait for Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter’s collaboration is almost over, as it’s being released this Friday.
The superstars recently performed Bring Your Love at Coachella and now they are putting out the official audio.
The pair made the announcement yesterday when they shared a new photo of themselves with the caption: “We’ve got something to say about it,” which is a reference to Madonna’s 1989 song Express Yourself.
It will be the first official single from the Queen of Pop’s forthcoming album Confessions On A Dancefloor: Part II, after she released a teaser track, I Feel So Free, earlier this month.
Humanize 102 words
Pink girl’s a leg-end
Pink with daughter WillowCredit: Getty
Pink has sold out stadiums and had No1s across the globe, but as far as daughter Willow is concerned she’s top of the charts as an embarrassing mum.
At the opening night of The Lost Boys musical in New York they posed for photots on the red carpet.
But while standing in front of the snappers, Pink gestured at the slit in Willow’s skirt and said, “Show off your legs,” to which the youngster snapped: “No!”
Alan’s tequila stunrise
Alan Carr has been revealing secrets on his Life’s A Beach podcastCredit: Getty
Alan Carr once fell in the Serpentine in London’s Hyde Park after drinking “hallucinogenic tequila” on his Chatty Man TV show.
The comedian said he was still feeling the effects the next day as he walked his dogs and suffered a mishap.
He explained he’d had a tequila the night before but was given a hallucinogenic one by mistake.
He added: “I couldn’t sober up and I fell in the Serpentine, p***ed.
“My old dog Bev, bless her, she dropped the ball in the Serpentine and I went forward to pick it up. And I think all the tequila rushed to the front of my head and I just fell in.”
Speaking on his Life’s A Beach podcast, he added: “In films, the dogs are meant to jump in and save you, but they were just wagging their tails, like, ‘What’s this p***head done again?’
“So I was just soaking wet and I had to walk . . . You know, when people are pulling their kids away, ‘Come away from the strange man,’ and all that.”
Capital’s Summertime Ball is returning to London, taking over Wembley Stadium to entertain 80,000 fans on June 6.
The line-up will be revealed by Jordan North, Chris Stark and Sian Welby on Capital Breakfast this morning and tomorrow, before tickets go on sale through the Global Player app at 9am on Thursday.
Gracie has secret follow-up
Gracie Abrams’ new record is rumoured to be all about falling for Normal People actor Paul MescalCredit: Getty
Gracie Abrams is back, two years after her album The Secret Of Us topped the charts.
The American singer released a teaser on Instagram yesterday, and it appears to be a snippet from the lead single for her upcoming third album.
The record is rumoured to be all about falling for Normal People actor Paul Mescal, although it doesn’t sound like it’s been smooth sailing.
They were reported to have briefly split in early 2025, and the song will do little to shut down that speculation.
Gracie sings: “I used to see clearly but it’s bloodshot. And I want you so badly but I closed off.
“I used to think we’d get married. But I guess not.”
Last summer we revealed Paul was at Gracie’s Glastonbury set, singing along to every word.
In February, they made their red-carpet debut at the Baftas in London.
And last month I told how Gracie had moved from LA into Paul’s London home, while he films the upcoming Beatles biopics.
Her last album was all about heartbreak, but I’m expecting some sunnier moments this time around.
OLIVIA DEAN is preparing to pull out the big guns for the follow-up to her year of triumph — by enlisting the help of hitmaker extraordinaire Nile Rodgers.
She’s become one of the UK’s favourite musicians thanks to the runaway success of her album The Art Of Loving.
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Olivia Dean is working on her follow-up to The Art Of LovingCredit: GettyChic legend Nile Rodgers is keen to work with OliviaCredit: Getty
Now I’m told Chic great Nile is keen to work with Olivia and personally reached out to her.
Their teams are looking for space in the schedules to go into the studio together.
A source said: “Nile has his finger on the pulse when it comes to music and thinks Olivia is just amazing.
“He was actually aware of her before her album dropped and is really keen to get in the studio with her.
“She really does have the world at her feet and is pretty honoured that such a star wants to work with her.”
Nile has written, produced and performed on albums totalling more than 750million sales.
He has worked on tracks including David Bowie’s Let’s Dance, Duran Duran’s The Reflex and Like A Virgin by Madonna.
More recently, he has contributed to Beyonce’s albums Renaissance and Cowboy Carter, and Coldplay’s tenth album Moon Music.
But Olivia doesn’t have loads of time in her diary right now, having kicked off a debut arena tour in Glasgow last Wednesday.
She has shows in London this week and will stay on the road across Europe and North America until the end of August, before jetting Down Under in October.
Olivia kicked off her debut arena tour in Glasgow last WednesdayCredit: Getty
Released last September, The Art Of Loving has turned her into a global star, spawning the singles Man I Need, So Easy (To Fall In Love), A Couple Minutes and Let Alone The One You Love.
She proved to have the Midas touch, because after teaming up with Sam Fender on a version of his song Rein Me In, it spent eight weeks at No1 — and is on course to return there this Friday.
Olivia has also achieved career milestones including performing on Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage in 2024.
On how to build her career, Olivia previously said: “Make an album, play Jools Holland and play the Pyramid Stage.
“I’ve done them now, I need to figure out some new goals.”
With Nile by her side, I’m sure Olivia will continue to dominate.
MIS-TEEQ confirmed my story that they’re reuniting to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their debut album, Lickin’ On Both Sides.
I revealed in January that Alesha Dixon, Sabrina Washington and Su-Elise Nash were discussing getting back together for a one-off performance.
Mis-Teeq are reuniting to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their debut album, Lickin’ On Both SidesCredit: Getty
And now Mis-Teeq’s Instagram page has kicked back into action, with a video showing their performances from 2001 – when the record came out.
The biography on their account reads: “25 Years. One Legacy.”
Watch this space.
COOPER: MY SLIM PICKIN’
COUNTRY singer Cooper Alan wants to do the unthinkable and drag Eminem into the world of cowboy music.
In an exclusive chat with Bizarre, the TikTok sensation – who has racked up 11.5million followers – revealed that the Slim Shady rapper tops his dream collaboration list.
Cooper Alan wants to do the unthinkable and drag Eminem into the world of cowboy musicCredit: Getty
Cooper said: “Eminem has always been my favourite. It would probably never happen, but that’d be really cool.
“Eminem on a country song, I think that would be crazy.”
He’s also got another surprise duet in mind, this time with with Scottish brothers The Proclaimers.
He added: “We’ve been covering their 500 Miles as our encore, so we’ll throw their hat in the ring too. Dream collab, The Proclaimers.”
I caught Cooper live in London last week on his To The Pub Tour, and the show was absolute carnage – in the best way possible.
The singer is wrapping up his first UK shows in Glasgow tomorrow, following the release of latest album Winston-Salem.
The New Normal singer had fans battling it out in a beer-chugging contest before pouring pints straight into the front row from the stage.
Laughing about the stunt, he said: “You’d think I’d be better at pouring the beer.
“But it comes out too fast, it goes all over their face.”
After testing their drinking skills, he was full of praise for our crowds.
Cooper said: “I was impressed with the British drinking ability, especially on a Tuesday night.”
That’s those Americans told.
If you want proper drinkers, come to Britain.
MEGAN DITCHES ‘CHEATER’
MEGAN THEE STALLION has broken up with boyfriend Klay Thompson after accusing him of cheating on her.
In a statement confirming her split from the NBA basketball player, she said: “I’ve made the decision to end my relationship with Klay.
Megan Thee Stallion has dumped boyfriend Klay ThompsonCredit: Getty
“Trust, fidelity and respect are non-negotiable for me in a relationship.
“When those values are compromised, there’s no real path forward.
“I’m taking time to prioritise myself.”
The WAP rapper was with Klay – who’s yet to address the claims – for just under a year.
On Instagram she wrote: “Cheating, had me around your family playing house.
“Got ‘cold feet’. Holding you down through all your HORRIBLE mood swings and treatment of me during basketball season . . . now you don’t know if you can be ‘monogamous’???”
FOO FIGHTERS celebrated the release of their album Your Favorite Toy with a launch party in London, then performed two new tracks on Saturday Night Live.
But it looks like the band, above, will be prevented from scoring their seventh No1 album, as Noah Kahan’s new record The Great Divide has sold three times more in the UK since they were both released on Friday.
MADGE BASQUES IN GLORY
SHE might be 67, but it’s clear Madonna can still party hard as she leaves a nightclub in bridal lingerie at 2am yesterday.
Madge, in shades and knee-high boots, hosted a bash at The Abbey in West Hollywood, where she played new track I Feel So Free and also premiered an upcoming song, believed to be called Freedom.
Madonna hosted a bash at The Abbey in West Hollywood, where she played new track I Feel So FreeCredit: BackGrid
That could well be her third track with that title.
She recorded one for her 1994 Bedtime Stories album, though it didn’t make the cut at the time, and made another during sessions in 2014 and 2015, which wasn’t officially released but did leak online.
There was some chaos at the Los Angeles nightspot as fans grappled to get close to the superstar, who was standing behind the DJ decks.
Punters were pushing and shoving, with one woman pouring her drink over a man’s head.
Celeb fans Addison Rae and Julia Fox were also there.
Let’s hope they didn’t have soggy bonces.
BOY GEORGE FACES UP TO EUROVISION
BOY GEORGE is all set to make his Eurovision debut next month – but it sounds like he’s put less thought into his vocals than how he will react when the scores are revealed.
The singer is featuring on San Marino’s entry Superstar, by Senhit.
Boy George makes his Eurovision debut next monthCredit: Getty
He said in an exclusive chat at the London Eurovision Party: “I’ve been to so many awards shows where I’ve been nominated, so I will be able to deal with nerves when it comes to the points.
“You have to learn that face where you’re like, ‘I’m so happy for everyone else’.
“But I’ll be so in it. I think Senhit will be more nervous than me.
“I won’t be nervous on the night, not really. There will be nervous energy and excitement.”
The Culture Club frontman joked he better not get stage fright, adding: “Probably on the night, I’ll be like, ‘Argh, this is huge.
“What if I forget to say the right words?’. I won’t have a lot to do, but sometimes not having much to do can be worse. But I think I’ll be fine.”
He has high hopes that San Marino can beat the UK entry Eins, Zwei, Drei by Look Mum No Computer.
George added: “I’d love us to win. San Marino is a small country. Ireland is not doing Eurovision this year so, they can vote for me as I’m Irish.”
THE ROLLING STONES are having fun with the promo for their new album Foreign Tongues.
They have turned their website into a CCTV geek’s heaven with ten cameras showing them at work.
Producer Andrew Watt, who worked on their last No1 album Hackney Diamonds, features in the videos, and helped shape the ten album tracks.
Insiders said there is a top-secret – and random – collab on the new record, out later this year. I’m told no one would ever guess.
SYDNEY CENTRE STAGE
HONKY tonkin’ Sydney Sweeny squeezed into this tiny corset dress to enjoy the world’s largest country music festival.
She was spotted in the crowd during the Stagecoach event in California.
Sydney Sweeny squeezed into this tiny corset dress to enjoy the world’s largest country music festivalCredit: GettySydney was spotted in the crowd during the Stagecoach event in CaliforniaCredit: X
The actress, who seemed to take inspiration from Madonna’s latest corset look, was seen on top of boyfriend Scooter Braun’s shoulders as they watched Ella Langley perform on Friday evening.
She was then back on Saturday for day two and got on the mic herself, inset.
Her lingerie brand Syrn hosted a pop-up where she belted out Sweet Caroline on karaoke and was joined by showbiz pals Diplo and Lance Bass.