LA VOIX has made history by becoming the first drag artist to sign up for the main series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Here’s everything you need to know about the trailblazing performer, whom The Sun exclusively revealed would be part of the Strictly 2025 line-up.
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La Voix is the first drag artist to feature on a main series of StrictlyCredit: Instagram
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La Voix also made it to the semi-finals of BGTCredit: Rex
Who is La Voix?
La Voix, born Christopher Dennis, is a dynamic performer, presenter and vocalist.
She first rose to prominence in the entertainment world as a semi-finalist on Britain’s Got Talent in 2014.
La Voix later gained international acclaim through appearances on shows including Queen of the Universe and Queens For The Night.
In 2024, La Voix was a fan favourite and runner-up on the sixth series of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, earning four RuPeter Badges for winning multiple challenges, including the Snatch Game and a musical Rusical performance.
Growing up in Stockton-on-Tees, La Voix moved to London aged 18 to study drama at Brunel University before training in musical theatre at the Urdang Academy.
Her career spans decades and includes performances worldwide on over 80 cruise ships and regular pantomime roles.
This is on top of La Voix’s live shows combining powerful vocals, comedy and celebrity impressions — she has the ability to channel legendary divas like Tina Turner, Cher and Judy Garland.
La Voix interviewed iconic personalities such as Dawn French and Joanna Lumley, and even performed for the Royal Family at its exclusive New Year’s Eve ball for two consecutive years.
The entertainer has also been involved in film, including a role in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 lineup IN FULL – including Game of Thrones star & famous YouTuber
La Voix’s participation in Strictly Come Dancing is historic as she is the first drag queen to compete in the main series of the show.
While drag performers have appeared in the program’s Christmas specials before, La Voix is breaking new ground by joining the main line-up.
Speaking with the BBC, La Voix said: “I’ve performed for royalty, RuPaul and Simon Cowell, but nothing fills me with more excitement, and quite a bit of terror, than the thought of dancing in front of millions on live Saturday night TV.
“Strictly is a national institution, and I can’t wait to get started.
“All that’s left to say is: good luck to my partner! Here’s hoping they can help me go from La Voix into La Danse.”
La Voix also told Radio 2’s Scott Mills: “I can’t dance, I’ve always said it’s not my thing.
“I’ve managed to get through 20 years of being on stage by standing in the centre and having dancers choreographed around me, now I can’t hide behind that any more.”
Who else is on Strictly this year?
The 2025 Strictly Come Dancing line-up includes a stacked cast of celebrities alongside La Voix:
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (Olympian and Gladiator)
Dani Dyer (TV personality)
Alex Kingston (Doctor Who actress)
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (former footballer)
Balvinder Sopal (actress from EastEnders)
Ellie Goldstein (model and the first contestant with Down syndrome on the full show)
JoJo Siwa has taken a savage swipe at Chris Hughes’ ex Olivia AttwoodCredit: Splash
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JoJo said there are ‘two sides to every story’Credit: Splash
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JoJo and Chris have been inseperable after meeting this yearCredit: Instagram
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Chris and Olivia haven’t seen eye to eye since their splitCredit: PA:Press Association
While it’s been seven years since the pair dated, according to a pal, Chris feels especially slighted by several comments Olivia made about him while he was in the CelebrityBig Brother house – particularly concerning his relationship with JoJo Siwa.
Chris hasn’t spoken out about Olivia’s claims, despite her also suggesting he was being fake for the cameras.
She added: “[Some] people, they go on reality TV, they are one person and when you experience them off camera… It’s like shapeshifters.”
And when asked directly on the social media platform what she thought of Chris’s romance with JoJo once they left the house, Olivia hinted Chris was leveraging the relationship for publicity, simply saying “she’s really famous”.
Now, Chris’ girlfriend JoJo, who he met in the Celeb Big Brother house, has appeared to take aim at Love Island star Olivia, while appearing on Radio Andy’s Smith Sisters Live.
The conversation on the podcast heard JoJo heaping praise onto her beau Chris, and adding: “Honestly he is such a good guy that his mouth has stayed shut.
“Always know that there are two sides to every single story – I don’t even know every side to every single story.
JoJo Siwa looks incredible in gold mini dress after hinting at MARRIAGE plans with Chris Hughes
“I love him to death but I met him a few months ago, I don’t know every single thing about his past.”
JoJo went on: “There’s a lot to be said about the good guy in the story who keeps his mouth shut.
“And Chris is a simple guy who loves his family, his golf, his horses and his sports.
“And one thing we have in common is that we’ve got wrath from our past online and I could easily shut every single person that has said any single thing down with text proof, and he could do the same, but it’s not worth it.”
Olivia Attwood’s Career History
From Monster grid girl and Love Island star to daytime telly panellist and respected documentary maker, Olivia Attwood has made a huge career pivot in recent years…
Olivia first started as a Monster grid girl at motorsport events in 2012 when she was 19-years-old, and did it right up until she went into Love Island in 2017.
After placing third in the reality show with then-boyfriend Chris Hughes, she starred in their own spin-off series, Chris & Olivia: Crackin’ On, in 2018.
Later that year, she appeared on Celebs Go Dating and then joined the cast of The Only Way Is Essex in 2019, where she had a number of fiery on-screen rows.
In 2020, the reality TV veteran began starring in her own reality series on ITVBe titled Olivia Meets Her Match, which followed her wedding preparations with footballer Bradley Dack.
In 2021, the tide started to turn.
Olivia made appearances on household shows Lorraine, Tipping Point: Lucky Stars and Loose Women.
Then, in 2022, ITV commissioned her for her first ever documentary series.
She presented Olivia Attwood: Getting Filthy Rich, which explored women selling sexual content online.
In June 2023, ITV commissioned Olivia Marries Her Match and made her a regular guest panellist on Loose Women.
Her most recent docu-series, Olivia Attwood: The Price of Perfection, aired in January this year where she sensitively explored the cosmetic industry.
She added: “By doing that you’re just feeding that beast, you’re feeding that monster and you don’t need to. It’s your past, and what is beautiful about Christopher is that he’s not living in that past.”
During the chat, JoJo also said that Chris had made her a nicer person, as she detailed the way he greets people when he walks into a room.
Olivia and Chris’ ‘toxic’ split
Their split in March 2018, just seven months after falling in love the previous summer, is the stuff of Love Island lore.
The pair had filmed a spin-off reality show, Chris and Olivia: Crackin’ On, which was intended to document their romance in the real world.
But instead, filming was dogged with rows; they split during the production and the number of planned episodes was slashed.
Indeed, Olivia even admitted she “hated” Chris once they were out of the villa bubble.
She said at the time: “I moved him into my own home, I mean like a week after leaving the villa. And we weren’t even getting on.
“So he moved in with a bag and was like, ‘I hate you.’ And I was like, ’I f***ing hate you.”
She later called the relationship “toxic” and admitted they were “horrible together”.
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The couple met on Celeb Big BrotherCredit: Instagram / chrishughesofficial
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Chris hasn’t spoken out about Olivia’s claimsCredit: Rex
Gemma and Gorka have been dating since 2018Credit: Instagram
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The duo met in 2017 as Strictly Come Dancing cast-matesCredit: Instagram
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They’re now engaged and share two childrenCredit: instagram/glouiseatkinson
But funnily enough Gemma, 40, and Gorka, 35, weren’t actually coupled up during their time on the show.
Their relationship blossomed off-screen, with the duo beginning to officially date in 2018.
They got engaged three years later and now share a son and a daughter – Mia, five, and son Thiago, two.
After years of being engaged, Gemma has revealed why the couple have been waiting so long to walk down the aisle – and why they plan to wait even longer.
Read Strictly Come Dancing
In an interview Gemma said: “We’ve toyed about doing it in Spain so his [Gorka’s] family can come.
“We’ve even thought about doing it in a registry office or a hotel in Manchester, just the two of us, and then have a big party after.”
But what the lovebirds have settled on couldn’t be sweeter or more thoughtful.
“I think now we want to wait until Thiago is a bit older, so maybe next year or the year after, as he’s only two.
“If he’s a bit older, he could be involved in it, which would be really nice.”
Back in 2022 Gemma announced that herself and Gorka had to postpone their previously-planned wedding.
Strictly’s Gorka Marquez breaks down in tears as he pays tribute to Gemma Aktinson as he leaves her and their kids for weeks
The cancellation came about due to incredibly busy schedules on both ends, with Gorka busy as a professional dancer and Gemma as a radio host.
The pair were also wishing to prioritise trying for another baby instead of splashing out on a lavish event.
The wedding update comes only months after Gemma and Gorka found out that their reality TV show Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind The Lens had not been renewed for a third season on Apple TV.
It was devastating news for the couple, as the show had performed really well.
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They’re waiting to tie the knot so their youngest child can participate in the dayCredit: Instagram
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They weren’t dance partners during their Strictly daysCredit: PA
EX-I’m A Celebrity winner Vicky Pattison is finding Strictly rehearsals difficult and admits: “I’d take kangaroo balls over glitter balls any day. I’m really done in.”
Davina McCall has revealed she has secretly got engaged to hair stylist partner Michael DouglasCredit: Getty
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He has been a rock during her recovery from a life-saving brain op, and a friend said: “Everyone is so thrilled for them.”
The couple, together seven years, then flew to the Burning Man festival in Nevada, US, three weeks ago to celebrate.
They have revealed the happy news only to their innermost circle.
Davina is recovering from an op to remove a benign brain cyst last November and a friend said: “To say it has been a rollercoaster year for her is an understatement.
“Whilst surgery was, of course, traumatic, she made peace with a lot in the days and weeks leading up to it.
“Then, having survived, she had a new lease of life — as so many do who have been in similar situations.
“Michael was her absolute rock throughout her recovery.
“If you see them together, genuinely they are like lovesick teenagers.
“Their chemistry is insane.
“Basically Davina thought ‘f*** it, life is short’, and decided it was time to, as the kids say, lock in the love of her life.”
Davina McCall hosts new reality show Stranded on Honeymoon Island
The pair met on Big Brother in the early 2000s when he styled her hair.
They stayed friends for years but only began dating after she finalised her divorce from Matthew Robertson in early 2018.
It is not known when Davina and Michael will but is unlikely to be until after May next year when Davina is expected to be fully recovered from her brain op.
The pal added: “She has a ring but is only wearing it in private.
“It is wonderful news and everyone who knows them is just so thrilled.
“They really do make the most gorgeous couple.”
Yesterday mum-of-three Davina detailed her post-op journey to Radio 2’s Scott Mills, and, without mentioning her engagement, said she had never been happier.
She said: “After my operation they said it will take a year to 18 months to get as good as you’re going to get.
“I keep thinking that next May I’m going to go out for dinner with Michael and say, ‘I hope this version of me is all right as this is what you’re going to get’.
“I don’t know if you think I see any difference but I am so happy.
“It is mad. I guess I am just super-grateful to be here, alive.
“I can’t believe the sliding doors that happened to get me here are magical.
“It’s been a massive journey and some has been incredibly hard.”
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Davina has been recovering from brain surgery, and praised Michael for his incredible supportCredit: Instagram
Michael has styled her locks for years and created a glam beehive hairdo for her appearance at Wednesday night’s NTAs at the O2 in London.
He runs his own award-winning brand, MD London and co-hosts popular podcast Making The Cut.
Davina, who once hosted dating show Streetmate, last month insisted they’d never tie the knot.
She said: “We go on honeymoons all the time but without getting married.
“We’re in the honeymoon period even after all these years.
“I couldn’t be more happy. And sometimes there’s an idea of, why change anything?’”
But in another recent interview she praised Michael for his support.
She said: “I want to just big up Michael for a minute, because you and I have been through something mega, and I want to say out loud, just thank you.
“It’s been really difficult for both of us, and I love you with all of my heart.
“You are everything to me, you’re my soulmate.
“We are more than married!”
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Davina’s marriage to first husband Andrew Leggett lasted for only two yearsCredit: TillenDove
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Davina’s marriage to second husband Matthew Robertson lasted for 17 yearsCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Davina was married to TV adventurer Matthew Robertson for 17 years, and the couple have children Holly, Chester, and Tilly.
Davina wed then-shop manager Andrew Leggett in 1997.
But they fell out after a few months and the marriage ended in 1999.
After realising their feelings for one another, Davina and Michael went public with their relationship in 2018, and by January 2023 had moved in together.
Last autumn doctors discovered a 14mm tumour after Davina had a scan as part of a deal with One Welbeck, a private healthcare facility for whom she had given a talk on the menopause for.
The presenter explained: “In my head, I was literally the healthiest person in the world.
“I had this head-to-toe scan.
“And they came back and they went, ‘Okay, we’ve got your results. Um… we’d like to talk to you’.
“They said, ‘You’ve got a benign cyst in your brain.’
“The doctor explained it’s called a colloid cyst.
“And a colloid cyst is a three in a million thing, and it can also cause… very, very rarely, but it can also cause sudden death.”
Speaking to podcaster Steven Bartlett, Davina said she faced the diagnosis head on with Michael, with the pair discussing what might happen if something went wrong during the surgery.
She added: “I said, ‘Look, I’ve got to plan for it if it doesn’t go according to plan.’
“When I’d spoken to the doctors, they talked about things like stroke, epilepsy, these being risks.
“Nicking an artery or a blood vessel in the brain and having a bleed… so there were a lot of things that could be a risk.
“And obviously, because of my age, you know, I’m 57. That was another thing that mattered to me. I was thinking, you know.
“Would you rather have brain surgery now, or if it grew in eight years’ time, would you want to have it in your mid-to-late 60s?
“Would it not be better to get it done now while you’re fit and healthy in every other way?”
After speaking to her children and closest family, Davina said she immediately set about sorting her affairs — including updating her will.
Following the surgery, Michael updated Davina’s followers and said she was recovering well.
Seeing them in the flesh is like witnessing teenagers in the first flush of intoxicating, all-consuming, hormonal-heavy love. Minus the angst.
News of their engagement is the bit of cheer we all needed at a time when so much else in the world is unrelentingly grim.
Davina is one of the kindest, most genuine celebrities in Britain.
Michael is a bundle of high energy fun.
He is as deeply in love with his fiancée as he is rightly proud of her.
Whilst their public lives are deeply entwined thanks to a successful podcast and his artful rendering of her locks, they are also deeply successful, and independent, in their own right.
A few years ago I bumped into Michael at London’s Soho House.
He came over to say hi; he drinks (moderately, not in a lush way) whereas six-packed, uber-fit Davina is famously teetotal.
He was lovely, unguarded and deeply complimentary of his then-girlfriend.
Michael invariably accompanies her on set and, granted, they’re not snogging unprofessionally between takes, but their chemistry is palpable.
Their decision to marry, having insisted they would never want to rock the boat, will give dog-obsessed spinsters like me hope.
Evidently Davina’s recent trauma, which she so powerfully documented to help others experiencing similar, has given her fresh perspective. Life is short; celebrate those you love.
For a woman so synonymous with menopause awareness, how lovely another M word “marriage” is now what we are all talking about.
Molly-Mae, 26, has now issued a statement on social media after a number of viewers complained about the National Television Awards result on social media.
Sharing a picture of herself on the stage, she then wrote: “Last night at the NTAs I shared a category with people whose stories will always be more powerful and inspirational than mine.
“I see that, I believe that and I want to acknowledge it again here.”
She continued: “It was only right to dedicate this award to the late Rob Burrow and his family and to the remarkable people in my category … this win belongs to them.”
However, even though the former reality star acknowledged that other nominees were ‘more powerful and inspirational,’ she thanked her fans for voting for her.
She added: “I’m so grateful for the recognition but even more grateful to have stood alongside such strength and inspiration. [White heart emoji]
“To everyone that voted … I am absolutely blown away. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Molly-Mae admits she’s ‘so proud’ of Tommy Fury – as boxer stays home from NTAs to babysit
At the time of the ITV ceremony broadcast, Fans slammed the ceremony as they thought that ‘more worthy’ nominees should have gotten the gong.
Taking to X, one fan fumed: “Molly Mae winning an NTA over Rob Burrow or Amy Dowden is everything that is wrong with the world.”
A second stated: “If you want to know the state of tv these days… Molly Mae documentary beat Rob Burrow documentary. What wild times we live in.”
“All those wonderfully powerful documentaries and Molly Mae won!?” wrote a third.
I shared a category with people whose stories will always be more powerful and inspirational than mine.
Molly-Mae HagueInstagram
While a fourth added: “Molly Mae winning an NTA over Rob Burrow really reminds me how much I hate society today. And the mid-speech dedication felt false and completely inappropriate. His family’s face said it all.”
Speaking on Lorraine, Vogue said: “I’m going to plan a break up because then I’m going to win an NTA myself,” before she burst out in laughter.
The star added: “Yeah there were quite a few shocked faces in the room because she was up against Rob Burrows, Freddie Flintoff, Amy Dowden, incredible documentaries.
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“I think there were a few shocked faces in the audience but she did pay tribute to Rob Burrows in her acceptance speech.”
She told the audience: “Oh my goodness. Honestly, just to be nominated for this award was such an honour.”
“I think as you guys saw, we were up against some seriously inspirational people in this category.”
Molly-Mae Hague – Five Ways She Spends Her Wealth
MOLLY-MAE Hague has raked in a whopping £48K a week. Yet what five things has the mum of one spent out on?
She then went on to thank her production team as she continued: “This team has been the reason why this experience has been so incredible for me.
“I think with nights like tonight it’s not just about the talent. It’s about the people that make shows like these.
“I’ve learned so much, I feel like I could start my own production company at this point.”
She then went onto thank her family who she labelled as the “best support system.”
I think as you guys saw, we were up against some seriously inspirational people in this category.
Molly-Mae HagueThe NTAs
Molly-Mae added: “And thank you to my own family who didn’t choose this life [of stardom] but came on the show for me because they knew how much it meant to me.
“You’re the best support system I could ask for.”
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Molly acknowledged that some of the other nominees were ‘more powerful and inspirational’Credit: Getty
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Vogue Williams took a savage swipe at Molly-Mae on LorraineCredit: ITV
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The star dedicated the award to the late Rob BurrowCredit: Splash
GMB stars are fuming at being told they can no longer eat buttered toast in the mornings.
They were among ITV staff warned this week that toasters were banned in their new studios because of health and safety fears.
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Staff were told of the change in a meeting attended by presenter Susanna ReidCredit: rex features
In a meeting attended by presenter Susanna Reid — who has previously spoken of her love of peanut butter, apple and toast — staff were also warned they would have no canteen.
“Everyone knows breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
“But the new offices’ kitchen is in a basement with no windows or natural light, so smoke from a toaster is a serious health hazard.
“Those on the night shift who prepare the breakfast show are especially cross as they love their morning toast.
“And there is no canteen so everyone will have to start bringing in their Tupperware packed breakfasts.
“And whilst this seems like extreme cost-cutting, everyone was bamboozled to discover a yoga studio was being built on the roof. It’s all very bizarre.”
As part of an ITV cost-cutting overhaul, production on Lorraine, This Morning and Loose Women will move away from BBC Studioworks’ Television Centre from January.
GMB, meanwhile, is being relocated to ITN on Gray’s Inn Road.
Bosses have tried to ban the bread-browning machines before — but backed down after then-host Piers Morgan shamed them on air.
ITV Faces Major Shake-Up: Good Morning Britain Stars Under Threat Amid Cost Cuts
A REAL-LIFE Downton Abbey couple have revealed they’re secretly married – four years after welcoming their first baby.
Laura Carmichael and Michael C. Fox went public in 2016, but began dating two years earlier.
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Michael C. Fox and Laura Carmichael have been together since 2014Credit: Splash
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Laura portrays Lady Edith Crawley (right)Credit: AP
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A third feature film is wrapping up Downton’s storyCredit: Alamy
They play Lady Edith Crawley and Andrew Parker respectively in the smash-hit period drama.
In 2021, the co-star couple welcomed their first child, son Luca, into the world.
Michael, 36, has now seemingly confirmed that he and Laura have tied the knot.
Speaking at NBC‘s Downton Abbey Celebrates The Grand Finale, he said: “I owe a lot to this show.
Read more on Downton Abbey
“I think so much of my life has been shaped around this show.”
Co-star Lesley Nicol – who plays Mrs Patmore – then asked: “What if someone said you’re actually going to find your wife and have a child? Life-changing stuff.”
To which Michael replied: “I know. It’s incredible.”
The Sun has contacted Michael’s representatives for comment.
Meanwhile, the event marked Downton Abbey‘s conclusion – spanning 15 years worth of a TV series and now three feature films.
A source told the Sun on Sunday: at the time: “Laura and Michael absolutely love being parents and were grateful to have some time away from the limelight to enjoy the moment.
“Laura’s taken motherhood in her stride and it’s added another string to her bow.”
Meanwhile, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale features Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern as the Earl and Countess of Grantham, as well as Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley and Jim Carter as Mr Carson.
The beloved original series ran from 2010 to 2015 on ITV and PBS in the US.
Ahead of the third film‘s release, Hugh told how it will pay tribute to the late Dame Maggie Smith.
The screen legend playedViolet Crawley,the Dowager Countess of Grantham.
Hugh told The Chris Evans Breakfast Show with The National Lottery on Virgin Radio UK: “It’s very much set in the house and saying goodbye to all these characters and we obviously say goodbye to Dame Maggie, which was very poignant on screen and now in real life.”
“She’ll be sorely missed. But the final film will obviously be a great lasting tribute to her.”
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Michael plays Andy Parker across the Downton franchise (pictured alongside Laura Haddock)Credit: Alamy
The TV star told fans that her Talking Royals podcast is now being turned into a weekly TV show that will air on Sunday mornings on ITV and ITVX.
The show has proved popular as a podcast and revisits historic moments from royal history, alongside discussing the headlines of the day.
An excited Charlene shared the news that the show was now going to be on TV, and told fans: “Some work news… ITV liked our @itvnews Talking Royals podcast so much, it’s heading to Sunday mornings on ITV1 and ITVX from Sept 21st at 12.30pm.
“It’s a modern take on a centuries-old establishment. Join me @chris.ship.itv @lizzierobinsonitv and a mix of incredible guests for debate, updates, and analysis.
“And since flags are having a moment .. do notice that our backdrop represents the Commonwealth countries, of whom the King is also head. A fact often forgotten in the current climate.”
Fans immediately rushed to congratulate Charlene, one fan wrote: “Well done! Can’t wait to watch!”
Another added: “Awesome news Charlene!”
This one said: “Brilliant news, congratulation!”
Hailing from Greenwich in South London, Charlene’s journalism career began as a reporter on Radio 1’s Newsbeat and its sister digital station, BBC Radio 1Xtra back in 2002.
Loose Women’s Charlene White breaks down in floods of tears and comforted by co-stars in heartbreaking moment on air
Charlene got her big break into TV six years later, when she landed a job as an ITN newsreader.
In 2014, she became the first black woman to present ITV News at Ten.
Speaking at the time about joining the show, she said: “This is rather exciting, isn’t it?
Regular Loose Women panellists
Katie Piper – Former Strictly Come Dancing star, activist, model and author
Sunetra Sarker – A former Strictly Come Dancing star, and known for her role in Casualty
Kaye Adams – Scottish journalist and one of the original Loose Women
Christine Lampard – ITV presenter
Ruth Langsford – Presented Loose Women on and off since 1999
Jane Moore – Sun columnist and former I’m A Celebrity contestant
Coleen Nolan – Became known for her family girl band called The Nolans and went on to compete on Celeb Big Brother
Nadia Sawalha – Former EastEnders star and Celebrity MasterChef winner
Stacey Solomon – Known for her reality show Sort Your Life Out and winning series 10 of I’m A Celeb
Janet Street-Porter – A journalist and president of the Ramblers’ Association
Brenda Edwards – Came fourth on The X Factor and went on to become a pop star and act in hit musicals such as Hairspray
Charlene White – Lead presenter at ITV News London
Kelle Bryan – Former EastEnders star and was in girl group Eternal alongside her sisters. Also starred in Hollyoaks
Olivia Attwood – Love Island star who joined the cast of The Only Way Is Essex
Frankie Bridge – Participated in Strictly Come Dancing and came third on I’m A Celeb in 2021
Judi Love – A stand up comedian and radio presenter, who has also made a variety of TV appearances in shows such as Strictly Come Dancing, Celebrity MasterChef, and Taskmaster
Linda Robson – Played iconic character Tracey Stubbs in Birds Of A Feather
Denise Welch – A soap queen, she starred in Coronation Street, Waterloo Road and Hollyoaks. Also the mother of Matt Healy, the lead singer of pop rock group the 1975
Gloria Hunniford – TV presenter who’s appeared on The Masked Singer and Strictly
Penny Lancaster – Model who is married to Rod Stewart
Dame Kelly Holmes – Double Olympic gold medallist in the 800m and 1500m
Myleene Klass – Member of pop group Hear’Say and classically trained musician
Ayda Field – American actress who is married to Robbie Williams
Sue Cleaver – Known for playing Eileen Grimshaw on the ITV soap opera Coronation Street
Kelly Brook – Model who found fame on The Big Breakfast with Johnny Vaughan
Mariella Frostrup – British-Norwegian journalist and presenter
“I am very happy, thank you so much for having me, ladies.”
Charlene added: “I am, I’m officially a Loose Woman! I am honestly absolutely stoked.
“I have been buzzing all this time to be able to reveal that I am the latest and the newest Loose Woman.”
Away from Loose Women and ITV news, Charlene has also dipped her toe in reality TV.
Gogglebox favourites Roisin Kelly and Joe Kyle have revealed a major milestone in their relationship – just months after being axed from the Channel 4 show.
The couple announced they’re moving out of their flat in Glasgow as Roisin, 26, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt reel.
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Gogglebox favourites Roisin and Joe have announced a huge milestone in their relationshipCredit: PA
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The pair have revealed they’ve moved out of their flat in GlasgowCredit: Instagram
In the short clip, significant moments flashed up on-screen including when the pair first moved into the flat as well as decorating a Christmas tree.
This was followed by shots of the empty flat after they moved all of their belongings out of the home they once shared.
A background voice is heard saying: “It was official, a new season had begun. After all, seasons change, so do cities, people come into your life and people go but it’s comforting to know the ones you love are always in your heart and if you’re very lucky, a plane ride away.”
She captioned the post: “Oh I will miss you flat #movingout.”
In July, the two took to social media to share: “After three and a half years of sitting on the sofa channel 4 have decided it’s time for Joe and I to stretch our legs and have not asked us back for season 26. Therefore, we are leaving the Gogglebox family.
“We couldn’t be more grateful to Studio Lambert for the opportunity, the experience has actually been so mad and we will miss watching TV with you all on Friday nights!”
They added: “It’s been an honour to represent Scotland as some of the first Scottish people on the show and prove we don’t actually need subtitles.”
“We have made friends for life and after filming every week for years you have become like our family!
“We could not have asked for better people to work with and we will miss you immensely. It for sure has been a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Gogglebox favourites reveal major milestone in relationship – after being brutally axed from show
A spokesperson for Channel 4 said at the time: “We thank Joe and Roisin for their contributions to Gogglebox over the years, and wish them all the best for the future.”
The new series of Gogglebox kicked off last night but fans were left fuming after Roisin and Joe weren’t included in the line-up.
Taking to X, one raged: “What’s happened to Joe and Roisin, they were the funniest ffs.”
Another added: “Can’t believe they got rid of Roisin and Joe, some of the boring b******s on this they could of p***ed off.”
A third tweeted: “I’m missing Roisin and Joe already.”
Meanwhile a fourth begged: “Can someone explain why have we replaced the lovely Scottish couple with pretentious posh p****s who aren’t even funny. just noo f*** off!!”
Sisters from Edinburgh, a family from Surrey, friends from Glasgow, a married couple from the Cotswolds, and a mother and daughter-in-law from Yorkshire all joined the show in last night’s instalment.
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The pair previously revealed they weren’t asked to return for series 26 of GoggleboxCredit: Rex
Emily, who plays Sarah Stratton, told the Radio Times: “I’m really proud of the Rivals gang because, throughout my life, I haven’t felt safe all the time, and we’re all so respectful of each other.
“We have to do a lot of sexual scenes and we’re very looked after — it’s a really positive thing.”
Emily, who is now engaged to materials scientist Dr Alistair Garner, launched her acting career 18 years ago with small parts in dramas including ITV’s Heartbeat.
Emily Atack says stripping for Rivals and playing naked tennis ‘was liberating’
She then made her breakthrough as Charlotte Hinchcliffe in The Inbetweeners, which ran from 2008 to 2010 on Channel 4 and is one of Britain’s best-loved comedies.
She also appeared in Only Fools And Horses prequel comedy Rock & Chips on BBC One in 2010, the 2013 gangster film Get Lucky and the 2016 movie remake of Dad’s Army.
She penned: “We’re coming back in 2026 with the #NTK Tour starting in the UK and Ireland. Europe dates to come soon.”
Loyal fans flocked to the comments section to share their excitement as one enthused: “Wembley Arena is where I saw Anastacia for the first time in 2005.”
Another fan commented: “I’m so happy that you are coming to Cardiff next year, my hometown and of course I’ll have to go to Wembley, the place I saw you live for the very first time.”
Someone else said: “Yes!!!! The tour that keeps on giving. The best celebration for an album ever,” and a fourth added: “Time to buy my first flight for the UK.”
“Returning to Wembley after so many years feels like coming full circle—and I can’t wait to celebrate these songs with the fans who’ve been on this journey with me since the very beginning.”
She expressed: “Three weeks from now I will have done 70 shows this tour this year. I’m super grateful for it because it’s the 25th anniversary and you know it just seemed like people were really up for celebration and every crowd, every country was super excited about being there.
“When I got to the number 25, I actually was like, wow, yeah, that’s kind of cool. I do feel there is a place, they’re still playing my music, they actually like my music still. I feel good about it.”
The tour comes as Anastacia celebrates 25 years since the release of her chart-topping debut album, Not That Kind.
She played an incredible 64 shows across the UK and Europe earlier this year as part of her sold-out, Not That Kind tour.
In September, she will head to Australia for four shows and to commemorate the milestone in her career, she has released a special anniversary edition of her debut album.
Anastacia began her career back in 1993 and has gained commercial success with huge hits over the years including I’m Outta Love, Paid My Dues and Left Outside.
After releasing her first album in 2000, the icon has gone on to release seven further albums, with seven worldwide tours.
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Anastacia appeared on This Morning today to share the exciting newsCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
SO far, everything she’s touched has been TV gold – but one of Alison Hammond’s shows is now heading to the TV scrapyard.
Over the past few years the This Morning presenter has landed a string of big programmes including ITV’s For The Love Of Dogs, Channel 4’s Great British Bake Off and her Big Weekend chat show for the BBC.
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Sky has axed Rob Beckett’s Smart TV which featured Alison Hammond and Josh Widdicombe as team captainsCredit: PA
But I can reveal that after just two series, the axe is falling on Rob Beckett’s Smart TV, the Sky panel show which featured her as a team captain alongside host Rob and fellow captain Josh Widdicombe.
A TV insider said: “It’s a surprise, given the show was well received.
“But Sky are increasingly turning their focus towards talent-led shows.
“They’ve already announced they’re bringing to an end another hugely popular stablemate, the sports panel contest, A League of Their Own.
read more on alison hammond
“It’s part of a pivot towards shows which don’t just feature talent but are fronted by them on a personal level — for example Danny and Danni Dyer‘s upcoming show where they operate a caravan park, as well as the new Gemma Collins documentary following her getting married and having IVF.”
Alison was being talked about as a major signing for Sky in 2022, which was before details of Smart TV had even been confirmed.
Bosses heralded her as “a brilliant addition”, saying they hoped to give her more projects, adding: “We don’t really golden handcuff any of our entertainment talent, but we do keep them busy so they sort of feel ‘a bit Sky’.”
A spokeswoman for Sky said yesterday: “After two brilliant series testing the telly knowledge of the nation, it is time for us to roll the credits on Rob Beckett’s Smart TV.
“Our huge thanks to the TV quizzing trio, Rob Beckett, Alison Hammond, and Josh Widdicombe who brought all the laughs to screen.
“We look forward to working together again.”
Alison Hammond, 50, shows off her huge ‘baby bump’ as she hits back at pregnancy rumours with toyboy lover, 27
Bizbit
IRISH detective drama Borderline is coming to ITVX in October.
Starring Line Of Duty’s Amy De Bhrun, and Eoin Macken, the six-part series follows two clashing police officers who are forced to collaborate on a serious crime.
It comes from the writer of Cold Feet, John Forte.
STEEL IN TEST OF METTLE
STEEL the Gladiator’s heart is as big as his biceps.
The BBC muscle man – real name Zack George – heads into the final stages of his 13 Days Fighting challenge for a baby-loss charity.
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Gladiator Steel pictured with TV’s Joe Wicks
He has so far raised more than £25,000 for Leo & Friends, to honour his son Leo who died at 13 days old.
Since August 18, Zack has completed a mile of burpees every day, with a stage in Cambridge today, followed by Loughborough later this week.
Pals including Gladiator Legend and fitness guru Joe Wicks have joined him along the way.
Zack said yesterday: “Extremely tired, body is sore and can hardly walk with the calf – but we’re getting it done.
“I wanted a challenge where I had to fight, like Leo did for 13 days.”
For more details and to support, see Zack’s Instagram page @zackgeorge.
SHERIDAN SHOCK AT KATE JOB
MANY will recall the bizarre moment on This Morning when Gyles Brandreth wrongly claimed Sheridan Smith was going to play Kate Middleton in a new drama.
But not Sheridan, who was blissfully unaware of the clanger 17 months ago.
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Sheridan Smith will not be playing Kate Middleton in a new dramaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
She was shown the clip during an interview on Capital Radio yesterday and seemed as stunned as the rest of us.
The actress said: “How have I missed that?
“They actually announced that like it was real?
“Oh stop it, this is getting out of hand.
“That’s hysterical.”
Strangely, Sheridan’s pals often send her clips and memes, but didn’t pass on the one from This Morning.
A BLUE PETER BADGE? THAT’S F.A.B., ANTHEA
HERE’S one that Anthea Turner wishes she made earlier.
The veteran TV presenter has finally been awarded the top Blue Peter badge, more than three decades after her two-year stint on the children’s TV show ended in 1994.
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Anthea Turner has finally been awarded the top Blue Peter badgeCredit: James Stack
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Anthea in 1993 with her famous model from the showCredit: Rex Features
She picked up a highly-coveted Gold badge to mark the BBC series’ new era as HACKER T DOG joins cast members Abby Cook, Joel Mawhinney and Shini Muthukrishnan.
Anthea said: “I have coveted the golden Blue Peter badge for so many years and never got one – and now they’ve put this right.
“All these years I’ve been without one, and at every Blue Peter event I’ve hoped I would get one.
“It’s now even become a standing joke. So this is my proudest moment and I won’t forget it.”
Meanwhile, I’ll always remember her as the brains behind Blue Peter’s most famous “make” – a loo roll Tracy Island from The Thunderbirds.
Totally F.A.B.
DANNY’S RIVALS LIFELINE
DANNY DYER was “thrown a lifeline” when Rivals show boss Dominic Treadwell-Collins gave him the role of Freddie Jones in the Disney+ bonkbuster.
The actor and director had worked together on EastEnders.
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Danny Dyer says Rivals gave him a career after EastendersCredit: Getty
But after Danny left in 2022, it’s fair to say his career was a bit patchy.
Talking at the Edinburgh TV Festival, Angellica Bell recalled speaking to him behind the scenes when he was a guest on The One Show and she was hosting.
She said: “I took him to one side and I said, ‘Oh my gosh you are insane in Rivals, and he was almost brought to tears.
“I saw him again and he sat down and he said to me, ‘Dominic gave me a lifeline, he saw something in me and it is like a renaissance.’
“He said not many people have given him an opportunity where he can grow in his art.
Speaking to The Times, Robert reflected that he’d accepted the Strictly offer as “these opportunities don’t come along very often.”
He said: “They don’t happen to everyone.
“And I’d just nearly died, so I thought, “This is no time to be sitting on the edges; why don’t you contribute and participate?”
“It all sounded like a good idea at the time.”
Robert added: “It all added up to a big mistake.”
Although he was in “quite good shape” on paper, the star struggled with Strictly’s intense schedule.
He explained: “That schedule is a law unto itself, and I just wasn’t anywhere close to being able to do that.
“I don’t even know if I could now. I don’t think it’d be a very good idea.”
New Strictly celeb Lewis Cope’s experience as a three-time world champion dance finalist
Robert said in a statement at the time of his exit: “I’m extremely sorry to have to announce that I’m withdrawing from Strictly Come Dancing due to ill health.
“Two years ago I had open heart surgery and although I believed I was fit enough to take on Strictly and its demanding schedule, it became clear that I had bitten off way more than I could chew for this stage in my recovery.
“I had begun to feel symptoms that led me to seek an urgent consultation with my heart specialist, and it was her view that it would be better for the sake of my health to step back from the show.”
EASTENDERS legend Cheryl Fergison has revealed she’s been left unable to walk following her stroke.
The actress was struck by the medical emergency in May which has left her walking with a stick.
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Actress Cheryl suffered a devastating stroke earlier this yearCredit: Shutterstock
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She described the medical emergency as ‘one of the lowest times in my life’Credit: Instagram
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Cheryl is known for playing Heather Trott in EastEndersCredit: BBC
She told the Mirror: “You lose the ability to coordinate your hands, to walk properly, your balance is gone.
“It’s frustrating and makes you angry. But I’ve started to recover; I am coming on in leaps and bounds now.”
Recalling the terrifying experience, former EastEnders star Cheryl, 59, said: “I went to bed but couldn’t settle.
“When I got up in the night to go to the bathroom, my balance completely went and I had to stop myself from falling over. My whole right side felt numb, heavy and tingly.”
Cheryl admitted that her health battle has reminded her what’s really important in life.
She added: “Material things don’t matter; they can be lost or broken, but memories are everything. Friends, family and laughter – that’s all that matters.”
Cheryl Fergison announces ‘return to the BBC’ after being axed and forced to work in a Chinese restaurant
She said: “I’ll never give in. I want to keep singing. If people criticise me for singing in small restaurants, so be it.
“At the end of the day, I’m an entertainer. Community has always been important to me, and I’ll perform no matter the crowd.
“If only two people show up, I don’t care—I’m still being paid, and I’ll still give it my all.”
What are the symptoms of stroke?
The FAST method – which stands for Face, Arms, Speech, Time – is the easiest way to remember the most common symptoms of stroke:
F = Face drooping – if one side of a person’s face is dropped or numb then ask them to smile, if it’s uneven then you should seek help.
A = Arm weakness – if one arm is weak or numb then you should ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downwards then you might need to get help
S = Speech difficulty – if a person’s speech is slurred then this could be a sign of a stroke
T = Time to call 999 – if a person has the signs above then you need to call 999 in the UK or 911 in the US for emergency care.
Other symptoms include:
sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
Cat Deeley has taken off her wedding ring as she was seen for the first time since her split with Patrick Kielty, and trip with a male friendCredit: BackGrid
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Cat was spotted without the bling on her left hand while stepping out to run errands in a very chic outfitCredit: BackGrid
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The TV presenter has instead swapped it onto her right hand, in a nod to this new chapter of her lifeCredit: BackGrid
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Cat and Patrick Kielty announced their split earlier this monthCredit: Andres Poveda LTD
The TV presenter has instead swapped it onto her right hand, in a nod to this new chapter of her life.
Cat was spotted without the bling on her left hand while stepping out to run errands in a very chic outfit.
She had a crisp white shirt on and denim jeans, and wore her hair down in loose waves.
The mum-of-two clutched onto her purse while out and about near the former couple’s marital home.
Cat looked sunkissed following her recent trip to Spain with a hairdresser pal.
The star was seen out for dinner with a male friend in Sitges, Spain on August 2 – just days after she and Patrick, 54, split.
Onlookers told the Daily Mail how the presenter looked “crestfallen” during the “difficult time”.
The snaps obtained by the publication show Cat without her wedding ring as she and hairdresser pal Ben Skervin tucked into dinner at restaurant Chiringuito de Garraf.
Patrick Kielty ‘didn’t feel like an equal partner’ in failed marriage to Cat Deeley – admitting ‘rough patches’ they had to work through
A fellow diner said: “Cat looked a bit down and a touch crestfallen, not her usual spritely self, which is understandable given her marriage split.
“Her accent was recognisable to a number of Brits at the restaurant, which is popular with celebrities, and she had interacted with a few British kids also dining there
“She clearly needed to be around her nearest and dearest during such a difficult time.”
One said: “Whatever rockiness was going on in the marriage, something as momentous as his mother’s funeral, you would make up even temporarily and just put your ‘best face’ on as we say in Northern Ireland.
“Cat obviously knew how close Patrick was to Mary and she should have come to be by his side, a hand on his shoulder as he buried his mother.
“The fact that she stayed in London and presented This Morning on the day, it’s not been forgotten.
