The Pentagon issued a statement blasting the streamer’s programming and leadership Friday following an inquiry about the new series “Boots” from Entertainment Weekly. While the response from Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson did not directly address the gay coming-of-age military show, it did slam Netflix for following an “ideological agenda” that “feeds woke garbage to their audience and children.”
“Under President Trump and Secretary [Pete] Hegseth, the U.S. military is getting back to restoring the warrior ethos,” Wilson’s statement said. “Our standards across the board are elite, uniform, and sex neutral because the weight of a rucksack or a human being doesn’t care if you’re a man, a woman, gay, or straight. We will not compromise our standards to satisfy an ideological agenda, unlike Netflix whose leadership consistently produces and feeds woke garbage to their audience and children.”
Based on Greg Cope White’s 2016 memoir “The Pink Marine,” “Boots” follows Cam Cope (Miles Heizer), a gay teenager who enlists in the Marines at a time when being gay in the military was still a crime. Noting the show’s timely themes, Times television critic Robert Lloyd called it a “perfectly decent, good-hearted, unsurprisingly sentimental miniseries” in his review.
The show’s creatives also worked closely with several advisors with past military experience to authentically portray the Marines and military life in the 1990s.
The Pentagon’s criticism against Netflix follows the recent campaign led by billionaire Elon Musk calling for people to cancel their subscriptions to the streamer. The on-again/off-again Trump ally railed against Netflix on X earlier this month after clips of “Dead End: Paranormal Park,” an animated Netflix series featuring a trans character, was making the rounds on the social media platform. The show was canceled after its second season was released in 2022.
Despite being the target of right-wing ire, Netflix also has a history of being called out for its anti-trans programming. In 2021, transphobic remarks made by comedian Dave Chappelle in his special “The Closer” led to protests, walkouts and even a resignation of a trans employee. The streamer followed that in 2022 by releasing a comedy special from Ricky Gervais that also featured transphobic material.
Gogglebox sisters Izzi and Ellie Warner have appeared on the show together since 2015
Gogglebox star Izzi Warner shared a clip with fans (Image: Instagram/izziwarner)
Gogglebox star Izzi Warner has given fans a rare insight into her life away from the cameras.
The sofa telly critic appears on the Channel 4 programme with her sister Ellie, and have appeared alongside the likes of Pete Sandiford and Jenny Newman since 2015.
Ahead of hitting our screens in tonight’s episode, Izzi took to Instagram, and said, while sharing a video alongside a horse: “Here’s my pet that you don’t see sat on my knee on the sofa on a Friday night.
“Clip clopping our way into the weekend, have a good one, see you at 9 o’clock!”
She captioned it: “Goggleboxing in the wild.”
Izzi later clarified with a picture cuddling her sausage dog: “Just to clarify the pet that doesn’t sit on my knee is Bea… not Toby.”
This comes after the TV star gave fans an insight into her private life earlier this year with a glowing tribute to her new partner.
Last year, Izzi revealed she had been “single for 18 months” and was no longer with her long-term partner Grant, who she shares children Bobby and Bessie with.
She’s since introduced fans to her new partner Toby, posting snaps of them on holiday together and at special events.
In April, she shared an update on her relationship, writing: “The sun shone at Sandhurst on the Sovereigns parade.
“Congratulations to all the officer cadets commissioning today, in particular 16 platoon. Thank you for all who took part in what was spectacular parade.
“Proud of you @tobyj1 .”
She was flooded with support from fans, as one person wrote: “You look lovely and how smart he looks in his uniform. You must be very proud of him.”
Another shared: “Wonderful day for them all…congratulations.”
Meanwhile on Valentine’s day, she let slip to sister Ellie: “Wait till you see what Toby got me for Valentine’s – a card in a box.”
Ellie read out the cats, saying: “‘To Izzi, our first of many. Thank you for being the absolute best. I bloody adore you. Happy Valentine’s Day I love you loads and lots more. Toby.”
I can’t think of another time that I was quite as terrified as when I walked alone into an interactive horror maze called “Feast” at a chilling carnival-like event called “The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor: Summoned by the Seas,” which takes place in the parking lot in front of the famously haunted ship, and also in the creepy bowels of its engine rooms, through Nov. 2.
“Dark Harbor,” is the scarier sister event to Griffith Park’s famous “Haunted Hayride.” Both Halloween season fright fests are produced by Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, which specializes in seasonal terror. The highlight of the nightly carnivals — which include food and drink booths, bars and rides — are a series of interactive mazes populated by bloody monsters, drooling ghouls, murderous clowns, spectral ghosts and maniacal serial killers.
The spooks are largely played by local actors — many of whom come back year after year for a guaranteed paycheck while pursuing a profession that is anything but financially sound. It is to these hardworking artists that the events owe their success. I was struck by just how dedicated the actors were to scaring us mere mortals out of our pants.
The masks, elaborate makeup and props, including butcher knives and bats, surely help the players stay in character— but this is not easy work. The actors must contend with aggressive guests who try to get in their faces (this is against the rules), as well as shrill, shrieking patrons who jump and run as they approach (guilty!).
But the actors are specially trained to handle these reactions and more.
“Each fall, Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor and Los Angeles Haunted Hayride hire a few hundred performers, most of our cast are locals who come back year after year. We hold open calls in the summer and focus on energy, movement, and presence more than traditional acting experience,” wrote “Dark Harbor‘s” general manager, Star Romano, in an email.
After the performers are hired, Romano explained, they attend orientation, safety training and rehearsals leading into opening weekend.
“It’s a huge community effort, part performance, part team reunion, and one of my favorite things about the season,” Romano wrote.
The result of those efforts led to me sleeping with the lights on for two nights straight.
“Get away from me! I’m too scared!” I shouted at one Leatherface-type character as he approached me with a chain saw.
“That’s the whole point,” he growled under his breath before obeying my wishes and lurching off toward another fear-stricken guest.
(NOTE: For a kid-friendly immersive Halloween experience, you can head to the company’s “Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns,” which features 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins on-site at South Coast Botanic Garden.)
I’m arts and culture writer Jessica Gelt, inviting you to sink into spooky season with me. Here’s your weekly arts and culture news.
On our radar
Benjamin Millepied’s L.A. Dance Project performs “On the Other Side.”
(Laurent Philippe)
L.A. Dance Project Renowned choreographer Benjamin Millepied continues his exploration of the intersection of dance and visual art with the ballet triptych “Gems,” featuring artwork by collaborators Barbara Kruger, Liam Gillick, Mark Bradford and others. The performance is composed of three contemporary ballets inspired by precious stones: “Reflections” (2013), “Hearts & Arrows” (2014) and “On the Other Side” (2016). The show — with music by David Lang and Philip Glass — marks the first time these pieces have been staged together. — Jessica Gelt 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Oct. 25. The Wallis, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. https://thewallis.org/show-details/la-dance-project-gems
New York artist Jon Henry stages photographs that reflect on reports of Black men killed by police.
(The Brick)
Monuments The most eagerly anticipated theme exhibition this fall is reflected in the emphatic title, pointedly written all in caps. “MONUMENTS” was inspired by the wave of revulsion following the violent 2017 white supremacist Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va. — a deadly riot opposing the proposed removal of a local statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee. That statue is now gone, torn down along with some 200 other tributes across the country to American turncoats who supported chattel slavery. (The last known Confederate monument in Southern California was removed in 2020.) A selection of decommissioned Confederate statues will be shown at MOCA and alternative space the Brick, joint organizers of the exhibition; they’ll be paired with contemporary work by Bethany Collins, Stan Douglas, Leonardo Drew, Jon Henry, Martin Puryear, Hank Willis Thomas, Kara Walker and a dozen other artists, borrowed and commissioned for the occasion. — Christopher Knight Thursday through May 3, 2026. Geffen Contemporary at Museum of Contemporary Art, 152 N. Central Ave., Little Tokyo; The Brick, 518 N. Western Ave. moca.org
Vikingur Olafsson will perform with conductor Santtu-Matias and Philharmonia.
(Timothy Norris / Los Angeles Philharmonic)
Santtu-Matias Rouvali and Vikingur Ólafsson join the Philharmonia Orchestra It’s been almost a decade since Finnish conductor Santtu-Matias Rouvali, a former Dudamel Fellow at the L.A. Phil, last returned to Southern California as a guest conductor of the L.A. Phil. In the meantime, though, he’s been busily attracting attention in London as principal conductor of the Philharmonia Orchestra (having succeeded Esa-Pekka Salonen in 2021). For his first local appearance with the Philharmonia, he is joined by the stellar Icelandic pianist Vikingur Ólafsson in Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G. The program also includes the local premiere of a new score meant to awaken environmental awareness, popular Mexican composer Gabriela Ortiz’s “Si el Oxígeno Fuera Verde” (If Oxygen Were Green), along with Shostakovich‘s Fifth Symphony. Shortly after fall, Ólafsson heads back to Disney in January as soloist with the L.A. Phil for John Adams’ latest piano concerto, “After the Fall.” — Mark Swed 8 p.m. Tuesday. Renée & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. philharmonicsociety.org
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The week ahead: A curated calendar
FRIDAY
Ethan Remez-Cott, left, and Matthew Goodrich in the play “Amerika or, The Man Who Disappeared.”
(Amanda Weier)
Amerika or, The Man Who Disappeared There’s Kafkaesque and then there’s the genuine article. Open Fist Theatre Company presents the world premiere of Dietrich Smith’s adaptation of the Franz Kafka novel that details the strange experiences of a 17-year-old European immigrant after he arrives in New York City aboard a steamer. 7:30 p.m. Friday; 7 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; and 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20; through Nov. 22. Atwater Village Theatre, 3269 Casitas Ave. openfist.org
Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson–Apt. 2B Two free-spirited roommates embrace mystery and adventure in the L.A. premiere of Kate Hamill’s dark modern comedy, a gender-bent spin on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle directed by Amie Farrell. 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday through Nov. 2. International City Theatre, 330 E. Seaside Way, Long Beach. ictlongbeach.org
नेहा & Neel Asian American theater collective Artists at Play and Latino Theater Company collaborate for the world premiere of Ankita Raturi’s new comedy about an Indian immigrant and single mom on a cross-country college tour with her 17-year-old American-born son. Directed by East West Players artistic director Lily Tung Crystal. Through Nov. 16. Los Angeles Theatre Center, 514 S. Spring Street, downtown L.A. latinotheaterco.org
17th OC Japan Fair Japanese culture festival featuring food, shopping, a cosplay show, a tuna cutting show, popular Japanese entertainers, traditional instrument performances, games, kimono models meet and greet, and more. 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Friday; noon-10 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. oc-japanfair.com
David Roussève will perform “Becoming Daddy AF” Friday and Saturday at the Nimoy.
(Rachel Keane)
Becoming Daddy AF Renowned dance-theater artist David Roussève presents the West Coast premiere of his experimental movement journey “Becoming Daddy AF.” The piece marks Roussève’s first full-length solo performance in more than two decades and explores themes that have touched and shaped his life, including HIV, genealogy and the loss of his husband of 26 years. (Jessica Gelt) 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. UCLA Nimoy Theater, 1262 Westwood Blvd. cap.ucla.edu
Unravelled The story of Canadian biologist Dr. Anne Adams, who turned to painting at age 53, and her remarkable connection to French composer Maurice Ravel, with whom she shared the same rare brain disease. A play infused with music and visual art, written by Jake Broder and directed by James Bonas. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. The Wallis, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. thewallis.org
SATURDAY
British artist Edmund de Waal will install new work in three sites at the Huntington, including the Chinese garden.
(Linnea Stephan)
The Eight Directions of the Wind British artist, potter and writer Edmund de Waal is obsessed with archives, which he describes as “places, streets, hillsides as much as card indexes.” For a body of new work, he once traveled to the place in China where the clay used to make porcelain was discovered — and then on to Dresden, Germany; Cornwall, U.K.; and the Appalachian Mountains, where subsequent cultures reinvented it. De Waal’s three site-specific, yearlong installations will be in the Huntington’s cultural and natural “archives” that are its art gallery and Chinese and Japanese gardens. (Christopher Knight) Through Oct. 26, 2026. The Huntington, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. huntington.org
Lorde performs Saturday at the Kia Forum.
(Scott A Garfitt / Invision/AP)
Lorde Just as her generation has, by all accounts, sobered up and gone sexless, Lorde returned this year with a defiant album about the giddy rush of partying and the frightening ramifications of a body in search of pleasure. “Virgin” pulls her back to the experimental electro-pop many fans were hoping for after the relatively complacent “Solar Power,” and the album is brimming with startling meditations on pregnancy scares, familial inheritance and the malleability of gender. (August Brown) 7 p.m. Kia Forum, 3900 W. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood. thekiaforum.com
Orchidées Cellist Kate Ellis performs composer Nick Roth’s cello étude — which traces the 100‑million‑year evolution of orchids by translating their DNA sequences into music — accompanied by time‑lapse footage of blooming specimens from the Huntington’s orchid collection. Also available to livestream. 7 p.m. The Huntington, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. huntington.org
Tortoise The lauded post-punk band performs “Touch,” their first new album in nine years with opening sets from local duo Jeremiah Chiu & Marta Sofia Honer and KCRW DJ Ale Cohen. 8 p.m. Saturday. The Broad, outdoor East West Bank Plaza, 221 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. thebroad.org
TUESDAY A Concert for Lowell A memorial tribute to Lowell Hill, one of the great patrons of new music in L.A., featuring many of the city’s top local artists, including Wild Up, MicroFest, Piano Spheres, the Industry, Partch Ensemble, Monday Evening Concerts, Long Beach Opera and People Inside Electronics. 8 p.m. Monk Space, 4414 W. 2nd Street. brightworknewmusic.com
Morgan Siobhan Green as Eurydice and Nicholas Barasch as Orpheus in the 2022 “Hadestown” North American Tour.
(T Charles Erickson)
Hadestown The Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical that reimagines the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice as a New Orleans-style folk opera returns on its latest national tour. “Born out of a concept album by Anaïs Mitchell, who wrote the book, lyrics and music, the show travels to the underworld and back again with liquified grace,” wrote Times theater critic Charles McNulty in a 2022 review. “Developed by Rachel Chavkin, the resourceful director who won a Tony for her staging, ‘Hadestown’ achieves a fluidity of musical theater storytelling that makes an old tale seem startlingly new.” Through Nov. 2. Hollywood Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. broadwayinhollywood.com
Learning to Draw The exhibition traces a 300-year evolution of artistic training and the mastery of drawing in Europe from about 1550 to 1850. Bringing together the physical control of the hand and the concentration of the mind, the foundational artistic act became essential to exploring, inventing and communicating visual ideas in the modern world. Through Jan. 25, 2026. Getty Museum, 1200 Getty Center Drive. getty.edu
Dispatch: Ben Platt: Live at the Ahmanson
Actor, singer and songwriter Ben Platt stands for a portrait at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre in New York on Thursday, April 20, 2023.
(Justin Jun Lee / For The Times)
Breaking news sure to make L.A. musical theater fans swoon: Center Theatre Group announced Friday that Broadway superstar Ben Platt will be in residency for two weeks and 10 shows at the Ahmanson Theatre , Dec. 12–21. Two-time Tony Award-winning director Michael Arden is set to direct the the residency, appropriately titled, “Ben Platt: Live at the Ahmanson.” Platt’s appearance comes a year after he staged a wildly successful three-week residency at Broadway’s Palace Theatre, which included a cornucopia of famous special guests including Cynthia Erivo, Nicole Scherzinger, Jennifer Hudson, Kacey Musgraves, Sam Smith, Micaela Diamond and Shoshana Bean. The production is staying mum on who might appear onstage alongside Platt during his L.A. run, but it’s safe to expect more big names.
“When you think of the very best in musical theatre, it simply doesn’t get any better than Ben Platt, whose stage presence and charisma make him one of the seminal performers of his generation,” said CTG’s artistic director, Snehal Desai, in a news release that promised “the holiday event of the season.”
Bassist Tonya Sweets, from left, Marlon Alexander Vargas and drummer Dee Simone in “littleboy/littleman,” directed by Nancy Medina, at Geffen Playhouse.
(Jeff Lorch)
A tale from a land of immigrants Rudi Goblen’s “littleboy/littleman” is in the midst of its world premiere at the Geffen Playhouse. The two-person show about two Nicaragua-born brothers is much like a performance piece, writes Times theater critic Charles McNulty in his review. It’s also a deeply American story. “Lest we forget our past, America is the great democratic experiment precisely because it’s a land of immigrants. Out of many, one — as our national motto, E pluribus unum, has it. How have we lost sight of this basic tenet of high school social studies?” McNulty writes.
Les Miz at 40 I went backstage at the Pantages for the opening night of “Les Misérables,” which happened to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the legendary musical. The mood was euphoric and everyone in the cast and crew seemed to have a story about a formative connection to the show. Stage manager Ken Davis walked me through the maze-like wings and filled me in on what it takes to tour a show of this scale. Of particular note: The touring production travels with 11 tractor trailers containing over 1,000 costumes, 120 wigs and hundreds of props.
Patrick Martinez, “Fallen Empire,” 2018, mixed media
(Michael Underwood)
When the sum is less than the whole Times art critic Christopher Knight was not impressed by “Grounded,” a newly opened exhibition at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The show’s theme, rooted in recent acquisitions of contemporary art, is promising, but ultimately falls apart. Viewed as a whole, “the 39 assembled contemporary paintings, sculptures, photographs, textiles and videos by 35 artists based in the Americas and areas of the Pacific underperform,” writes Knight. “Sometimes that’s because the individual work is bland, while elsewhere its pertinence to the shambling theme is stretched to the breaking point,” Knight writes.
Remembering Bernstein Tuesday marked the 35th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein’s death, and reminders of the great composer’s tributes to John F. Kennedy abound, writes Times classical music critic Mark Swed. In a piece of commentary about what Bernstein’s work can teach us about memorials, Swed examines multiple L.A. productions rooted in that work, including L.A. Opera’s “West Side Story” and Martha Graham Dance Company’s “En Masse” at the Soraya. Swed also wonders whether those important pieces will reach the Trump administration’s newly configured Kennedy Center in the spring.
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Guests attend the K.A.M.P. family fundraiser at the Hammer Museum on Oct. 12, 2025, in Los Angeles.
(Stefanie Keenan / Getty Images for Hammer Museum)
Everyone went home happy UCLA’s Hammer Museum raised nearly $200,000 last weekend with its 16th annual K.A.M.P. (Kids Art Museum Project) fundraiser. More than 700 excited parents and children showed up at the gloriously messy event co-chaired by Aurele Danoff Pelaia and Talia Friedman. Kids roamed the courtyard over the course of four hours, creating art at stations set up and manned by participating artists including Daniel Gibson; Sharon Johnston and Mark Lee of the Johnston Marklee architecture firm; Annie Lapin; Ryan Preciado; Rob Reynolds; Jennifer Rochlin; Mindy Shapero; Brooklin A. Soumahoro; and Christopher Suarez. Fairy Gardens were constructed of thick clay and foraged leaves; cardboard boxes were painted with rollers; plates were spray-painted and affixed with knickknacks and jewelry; and geometric shapes were glued to canvases and painted an array of bright colors. Children went home with their art, and parents left knowing they supported a host of free Hammer Kids programs that serve thousands of children and families annually.
Fair wages on Broadway Musicians working on Broadway, represented by AFM Local 802, voted to authorize a strike earlier this week — with 98% in favor. The nearly 1,200 musicians have been working without a contract since Aug. 31. According to an open letter the musicians sent to the Broadway League on Oct. 1, their demands include: “Fair wages that reflect Broadway’s success. Stable health coverage to allow musicians and their families to enjoy the health benefits that all workers deserve. Employment and income security so that hardworking freelance musicians have some assurance of job security. This includes not eliminating current jobs on Broadway.” Bargaining talks are ongoing.
Gene Hackman co-stars in “Bonnie and Clyde,” alongside Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway.
(Associated Press)
Gene Hackman, art collector The late actor Gene Hackman’s art collection will go up for auction through Bonhams in November. Highlights of the 13-piece collection — which is being offered as a single-owner sale — include works by Milton Avery, Auguste Rodin and Richard Diebenkorn. Hackman was passionate about art throughout his life, and took an extra-special interest in it after he stopped acting. During that time he dedicated himself to taking classes and art-making. He even kept a journal of everything he learned, according to Bonhams.
Historic homes tour Paging architecture fans: It’s not too late to reserve a spot in Dwell’s open-house event, back in L.A. for its second year. Tours of three historically significant Eastside homes are on offer during the day-long event, which launches from Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House in Barnsdall Art Park. The three additional houses in the tour are: Richard Stampton’s Descanso House in Silver Lake; Taalman Architecture, Terremoto, and interior designer Kathryn McCullough’s Lark House in Mount Washington; and Fung + Blatt’s San Marino House in — you guessed it — San Marino.
— Jessica Gelt
And last but not least
Still feeling sad about losing Diane Keaton? Me too. Here’s a list I put together of her 10 most important films. Watch one you haven’t seen — if that’s possible.
It’s a bit of a mad one with Wayne this episode that includes Liverpool v Man Utd chat, his birthday weekend, opinions on England and Marcus Rashford, and meet-ups with 50 Cent and Ed Sheeran.
Wayne takes us inside his 40th birthday bash, but who did he dress up as? Which songs did he belt out on karaoke? And who ended up with a nasty injury?
Musician and Liverpool fan Jamie Webster joins Wayne, Kelly and Kae to discuss why their rivalry with Manchester United is the biggest in English football. But who is this match more important for: Arne Slot or Ruben Amorim?
Jamie’s appearance on the show leads to a number of musical revelations from Wayne: how did he end up on stage with 50 Cent? And Why did Coleen have to step in when he tried to change an Ed Sheeran song?
Wayne gives his thoughts on England’s World Cup qualification and explains why he’s pleased the players are less certain of their places under Thomas Tuchel. He also has strong words for Marcus Rashford’s recent comments about the “inconsistent environment” at Old Trafford not helping his form.
Meanwhile, we discover what led Wayne and Jermain Defoe to watch his entire wedding DVD together while they were away at the 2010 World Cup and what was Wayne gutted to find out on the last day at Glastonbury?
You can watch The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sport YouTube, iPlayer, as well as listen on BBC Sounds.
Zack Polanski, the Green Party Leader, had called Zia Yusuf, of Reform UK, “a fascist” on Question Time on the BBC last week, and he was asked about this on The Jeremy Vine Show
Zack Polanski took a swipe at Zia Yusuf, who is Chairman of Reform UK
The 42-year-old politician, who became leader of the party last month, said he feels the Greens’ popularity has surged recently because, in part, of his honesty and desire to challenge issues. He had clashed with Mr Yusuf, who is Nigel Farage’s top aide, during last week’s Question Time, during which Mr Polanski called the politician “a fascist”.
And Mr Polanski, from Salford, Greater Manchester, was interrogated about this on by Jeremy Vine on his Channel 5 show this week. The Green Party leader said: “The reason why we are surging in the polls and the reason why we are getting so many members is because if something walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, I’ll call it a duck, and actually Nigel Farage, when he worked in the European Parliament, used to join forces with the Swedish Democrats.”
He later used the term “far right” in his response to Mr Vine, which led to a furious reaction from fellow panelist Carole Malone on Wednesday. The journalist and columnist said: “How dare you throw words like ‘Nazi’ around? Do you even know what that means? You are just going to let Reform get more votes by talking like that.”
But Mr Polanski hit back at Ms Malone, describing her response as “faux outrage” and bringing the discussion onto immigration. He made the point he feels there are no “safe and legal routes” for anyone to reach the UK.
The topic came up on The Jeremy Vine Show after Mr Polanski was praised for his work on Question Time last week. He sat alongside the likes of Mr Yusuf, Tory MP Nigel Huddleston and journalist Annabel Denham in Shrewsbury, Shropshire.
But Mr Yusuf swiftly declined the challenge, and instead insisted immigration is “the number one issue” in the UK at the moment. The 39-year-old businessman argued there has been “far too much mass immigration in this country” for some time.
Yet, Mr Polanski remained defiant – and continued his approach on The Jeremy Vine Show this week. Mr Vine, who has presented the programme since 2018, said Mr Polanski was “very tough” on Question Time, a stance for which the Green Party politician expressed no regrets. Later on the Channel 5 show, Mr Polanski stressed it is this approach which has led to the continued rise in the polls of the Green Party.
In the upcoming Celebrity Traitors episode, after three faithfuls, Niko Omilana, Tom Daley, and Tameka Empson were banished and murdered, tension soars as multiple celebrities face possible elimination and secret plots unfold
TV star and model Vogue Williams has reportedly signed up to this year’s I’m A Celebrity, 10 years after her husband Spencer Matthews was removed from the ITV camp
Vogue Williams will be hoping to do better than Spencer Matthews(Image: BAFTA via Getty Images)
Model and reality TV star Vogue Williams is the latest famous face to be tipped to be heading Down Under for the gruelling Bushtucker trials. She would follow in her husband Spencer Matthew’s footsteps, but would hope to have a very different experience from him.
The Made in Chelsea star was removed from camp after three days back in 2015 because he was taking steroids and didn’t tell producers beforehand. Now, Vogue has been tipped as “one of the most glam signings” in years.
“She is really fun and gets on with everyone, so bosses reckon she will be a hit with viewers,” a source explained. “It has been a hard decision to go on the show, because it will mean so much time away from her kids, but she wants to fight her fears and go for it.”
They added to the Sun: “Spencer is a massive thrillseeker and is always off on an adventure, but now it is Vogue’s turn to have one.” Vogue and Spencer married in 2018, and they share three children together.
She already has experience with tough shows, having won Bear Grylls: Mission Survive. Vogue might not be the only model in camp as it has been rumoured Kelly Brook will appear despite saying she would never do it.
In 2018, Kelly insisted she would never take part in the series. At the time she said: “I can just think of a million things I’d rather do. I’d rather go and work in my local pub.”
She added: “Even if I had a huge tax bill and I had to pay it really urgently, I still wouldn’t do it.” Kelly went as far as saying doing I’m A Celebrity would be the “beginning of the end”.
However, a source told the publication over the weekend that Kelly has signed up. Other famous faces said to be taking on the jungle include Emmerdale’s Lisa Riley and Shona McGarty who quit her role on EastEnders this year.
Rapper Aitch is also reportedly to be on the bill, which would make him the first in 11 years. The musician is best known for his successful career which includes nine Top Ten hits and working with Stormzy and Ed Sheeran.
TV bosses are hoping that the 25-year-old brings a younger generation of fans. Aitch, whose real name is Harry Armstrong, originally comes from New Moston, Manchester and began his career when he was just 15.
But, ITV are yet to confirm a full list of while celebrities will be on the latest series. A spokesman for ITV said: “We do not comment on speculation about I’m A Celebrity contestants.”
MANY A-list models stunned while strutting down the runway donning lingerie at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
The night was filled with beauty and sexy outfits for the brand’s annual runway show on Wednesday night in New York City.
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Gigi Hadid turned heads in tiny pink lingerie during the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show on Wednesday nightCredit: GettyPlus-size model Ashely Graham also walked the runway donning a sexy black numberCredit: AFPBella Hadid stunned in a white and silver tasseled outfit with giant white angel wingsCredit: GettyEmily Ratajkowski drew attention at her incredible figure in a pink two-piece and massive pink prop on her backCredit: AP
It began with jaw-dropping looks from models wearing an array of sultry lingerie, including pregnant Jasmine Tookes, who stepped out first in a barely-there gold beaded number.
She paused at the end of the runway as she cradled her baby bump and was met with cheers from the crowd.
Others like Behati Prinsloo and Alessandra Ambrosio matched her all-gold look in string two-piece ensembles, the former with a massive train, while Alessandra rocked giant wings.
Soon after, several musical acts took the stage.
Madison Beer started the lineup, performing her hit track Bittersweet while wearing nothing but a white angel corset.
She blended in perfectly with the ladies, as most wore variations of white and pink outfits.
Gigi Hadid turned heads in a skimpy pink lingerie set with an enormous pink, feathery coat draped over her arms.
Shortly after, the stage transformed into the brand’s signature pink-and-white polka-dot colors for its PINK loungewear collection.
The singing group TWICE then entered the runway, making history as the first K-pop girl group to perform at the exclusive event.
The foursome sported varying form-fitting ensembles, with knee-high furry boots.
Alessandra Ambrosio made her return to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show stage wearing a black ensembleCredit: GettyPregnant model Jasmine Tookes started out the night showing off her growing baby bump in a barely-there outfitCredit: GettyAngel Reese had jaws dropping at her incredible looks in a pink lingerie setCredit: AP
They sang their songs, This Is For and Strategy while the models walked past them in more comfortable attire.
This included newcomers Lila Moss and Barbie Ferreira, who stunned in a gray lounge set and a jean jacket, respectively.
At the end of the PINK showcase, the ladies posed for a group shot in the middle of the stage with TWICE, which was shown on a giant screen.
The evening continued with more seductive attire, as Colombian singer Karol G performed in a body-hugging, see-through white number.
The models kept the red theme going, with Bella Hadid flaunting her incredible figure in a jaw-dropping lingerie set.
Others wore various red lingerie, some paired with props such as capes, wings, and devil horns.
Karol G also got in on the fun, catwalking across the stage to show off her skintight bodysuit with matching wings.
Bella also rocked a fiery red number on stageCredit: AFPMusical performer Madison Beer blended in with the models with her stunning white corset ensembleCredit: GettyK-Pop girl group TWICE also rocked the room and wearing fluffy pink bootsCredit: Getty
The mood then brightened with more pastel-colored pieces, including a breathtaking vision of Emily Ratajkowski.
The supermodel wore a pink bra and underwear set, strapped heels wrapped up to her knees, and a huge, sparkly pink prop on her back.
The lights dimmed again to display the all-black lingerie pieces, including plus-size model Ashley Graham flaunting her curves in a glittery two-piece.
She paired the look with massive black angel wings and strappy heels.
Gigi later reappeared, wearing a form-fitting white corset and matching skirt, while holding large white angel wings.
Her sister, Bella, also reemerged donning a sexy tasseled white lingerie set with fluffy white wings strapped to her back.
The show ended with a medley performance by Missy Elliott, which included her popular tracks Get Ur Freak On, Work It, and Lose Control.
Missy made a grand entrance on a platform that came down from the ceiling before she appeared in an all-black sparkly outfit.
The models returned to the stage altogether when Missy’s performance concluded for an encore, as pink confetti covered the room.
Irina Shayk also looked breathtaking in a sexy look while walking the runwayCredit: AFPMissy Elliott closed out the night with a medley performance of her hit songsCredit: GettyThe ladies gathered altogether for an encore while pink confetti filled the roomCredit: Reuters
Several airports in California have refused to play a video featuring U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem blaming Democrats for delays due to the federal government shutdown.
The video, playing for travelers waiting in Transportation Security Administration security lines at airports across the country, comes as the government entered a third week of a shutdown after Congress failed to reach an agreement on funding legislation.
“It is TSA’s top priority to make sure you have the most pleasant and efficient airport experience as possible while we keep you safe,” Noem says in the video. “However, Democrats in Congress refuse to fund the federal government and because of this many of our operations are impacted, and most of our TSA employees are working without pay.”
Officials at multiple airports in California say they are not playing the video at their locations. They include: John Wayne Airport in Orange County, Hollywood Burbank Airport, San Diego International Airport, San José Mineta International Airport, Sacramento International Airport, Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport and San Francisco International Airport.
Officials from Los Angeles International Airport did respond to questions on whether the video was being played there.
Some airport officials have refused to play the video, calling it inappropriate. On Tuesday, the ranking member of the U.S. Senate’s Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation called for Noem to be investigated for possibly breaking the Hatch Act by asking airports to play the video.
“Recent reports indicate DHS is using taxpayer dollars and federal assets to produce and air a video message featuring Secretary Noem, in her official capacity, making political attacks against Democratic Members of Congress,” Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) wrote in a letter addressed to the Office of Special Counsel and reviewed by The Times. “This message is not just false; it appears to violate the prohibitions contained in the Hatch Act.”
The act, according to the U.S. Office of Special Counsel, is to “ensure that federal programs are administered in a nonpartisan fashion,” as well as protect federal employees from political coercion at work.
Noem’s video was received by airports on Thursday and was followed up by a verbal request from DHS officials to play it at security checkpoints, multiple airport officials told The Times.
The reasons the video is not being shown for California fliers varies.
In Orange County, airport spokesperson AnnaSophia Servin said that Homeland Security requested, to the airport’s director, that the video be played, but a final decision has not yet been made. In Burbank, political messaging is prohibited, officials said. In San José, an airport spokesperson said there have been no shutdown impacts and therefore no reason to play the video.
At San Francisco International Airport, officials determined that the video wasn’t helpful.
“SFO limits messaging at our security checkpoints to information intended to help passengers be prepared to go through the security screening process,” a spokesperson said in an email. “Any content, whether in video or print form, which does not meet this standard, will not be shown.”
When The Times asked Homeland Security officials to respond to airports not playing Noem’s video, spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin responded with Noem’s video statement blaming Democrats.
But California airports aren’t the only locations choosing not to play Noem’s message.
“We did not consent to playing the video in its current form, as we believe the Hatch Act clearly prohibits use of public assets for political purposes and messaging,” said Molly Prescott, a spokesperson for the Port of Portland, which manages Portland International Airport, said in a statement.
Oregon law also prohibits public employees from politicking on the job.
“We believe consenting to playing this video on Port assets would violate Oregon law,” she said.
Officials in New York also pushed back against airing the video.
“It is inappropriate, unacceptable, and inconsistent with the values we expect from our nation’s top public officials,” New York’s Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said in a statement. “The [Public Service Announcement] politicizes the impacts of a federal government shutdown on TSA Operations, and the County finds the tone to be unnecessarily alarmist.”
According to the Homeland Security website, more than 61,000 TSA employees continue to work despite a lapse in appropriations, and a lack of a paycheck to employees.
Lesley’s time in the Bake Off tent came to an end after a tough meringue-themed week saw her struggle to impress the judges and become the seventh contestant to leave the competition
22:58, 14 Oct 2025Updated 23:01, 14 Oct 2025
Bake Off fans fume as popular baker becomes seventh contestant to leave show(Image: ALL RIGHTS RESERVED)
Hairdresser Lesley has become the seventh baker to be eliminated from The Great British Bake Off after struggling during the show’s first-ever meringue-themed week.
In Tuesday night’s episode, the remaining contestants were faced with three demanding challenges designed to test their precision and patience.
For the signature bake, they were asked to create mini meringue tarts, followed by a classic yet notoriously tricky soufflé in the technical round.
Finally, the showstopper challenge required the bakers to produce a visually impressive meringue ice cream cake – a task that pushed even the most confident contestants to their limits.
Despite her best efforts, Lesley’s bakes failed to impress the judges, and she was told by co-host Alison Hammond that her time in the tent had come to an end.
Business development executive Toby, meanwhile, was named star baker by presenter Noel Fielding after delivering consistently strong results across all three challenges.
Lesley, 59, from Kent, admitted she had expected her departure. “Do you know what, I knew it was coming,” she said.
“It’s like ripping the plaster off! Thanks so much for the experience, it has been amazing. I couldn’t get my meringue right and had resigned myself to the fact I’d be going. But I’m proud that I made it to week seven. The other bakers gave me a massive cuddle, which meant the world.”
Judge Dame Prue Leith praised Lesley for her enthusiasm and warmth throughout the competition. “I’m really sorry to see Lesley go,” she said.
“She’s a remarkable woman and, in a way, she’s my ideal baker – she’s just really having a good time. That’s what Bake Off is all about.”
Following her exit, Lesley reflected on how much she had gained from her time in the famous tent. “I think I’ve grown as a person and feel more confident in myself and my abilities,” she said.
“I’ve learned new skills, trusted my gut feeling, and realised you need to step through fear and take yourself out of your comfort zone, that’s how you grow. I’ve had the time of my life.”
Having baked since the age of ten, Lesley said her highlight on the show was “winning the technical in chocolate week.”
Looking ahead, she hopes to open a small baking school, run a “cake shed” where people can buy homemade treats, and write a cookbook inspired by her late grandmother’s traditional recipes.
Lesley will appear on The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice with Jo Brand and Tom Allen on Friday, October 17, at 8pm on Channel 4.
Married At First Sight UK couple Sarah and Dean called time on their troubled marriage in an emotional commitment ceremony after weeks of tension, criticism, and viewer backlash over their rocky relationship
MAFS UK couple sensationally quit show in moving scenes before tear-jerking goodbye(Image: E4)
A dramatic exit rocked Married At First Sight UK as Sarah and Dean became the latest couple to quit the experiment following a tense and emotional commitment ceremony.
The pair’s relationship had been hanging by a thread for weeks, marked by awkward exchanges, lack of affection, and mounting viewer complaints over Sarah’s remarks about Dean’s weight.
During the ceremony, Sarah insisted she wanted to give their marriage “one more week,” telling the experts: “For me things have been moving positively… I want to see if romance develops. I think we’re at that point now. If I take a step back, I worry I’ll regret not trying.”
But her plea was met with firm opposition from the panel. Relationship expert Mel Schilling cut in, saying: “Sarah, I think you know how you feel. You’re clutching at straws here. We’re halfway through this experiment.”
Sex and relationships expert Charlene Douglas agreed, adding: “I think perhaps you’re making excuses. There isn’t any desire here at all. At what point do you call it quits? You’ve said the affection is too much. You’re both in denial.”
Paul C Brunson then chimed in on the whole situation, telling clashing Sarah and Dean: “We all see it.”
After a series of brutally honest interventions, Mel told the couple: “You two know what the smart thing to do is. You’re just not ready to say it.”
Initially, both Sarah and Dean wrote “stay” on their commitment cards, but changed their decisions after the confrontation.
Through tears, Sarah admitted: “I don’t want to hurt you anymore. I just don’t think we’re right for each other romantically.” Dean quietly replied: “Thank you for being honest,” adding that he “just wanted to be loved.”
Their relationship had been strained since the wedding day, when Sarah admitted she wasn’t physically attracted to Dean.
In one uncomfortable exchange, Dean asked if she had ever dated someone “overweight,” to which she bluntly replied: “No, never.” When asked what he could do to change that, she said: “Get some tattoos and lose some weight.”
Dean handled the comment with grace, later revealing he had “never been the boyfriend, always the best friend.”
However, Sarah’s behaviour drew much criticism from viewers, who accused her of fat-shaming and unforgivable disrespect.
Despite brief attempts to show a lighter side of their relationship, including honeymoon photos captioned “TV gave you the drama but here’s the real Maldives… fun, drinks & a lot of laughs”, tensions only deepened between Sarah and Dean.
Sarah later told the cameras: “I don’t think I can do this anymore,” before confirming their split at the ceremony.
Their departure brings an end to one of the show’s most turbulent marriages the show has ever seen, with both Sarah and Dean leaving the experiment in tears.
BROOKS Nader has showcased her bare breasts in an entirely see-through top while leaving a talk show appearance in New York City.
Photos obtained by The U.S. Sun captured the reality star donning the sexy ensemble.
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Brooks Nader stepped out donning a completely see-through top in New York CityCredit: BackGridPhotos captured the model exiting Sherri Shepherd’s talk show, where she is a guest on Wednesday’s showCredit: BackGridBrooks paired the top with a short black skirt, a matching blazer, and high heelsCredit: BackGrid
Brooks, 28, paused to acknowledge the cameras, showing off her sheer black top, exposing her boobs, and a short black skirt.
She completed the look with a black blazer, pointed-toe black high heels, and her blonde hair flowing straight down.
The pictures were taken outside of Sherri Shepherd’s talk show, where Brooks is a guest on Wednesday’s show.
The TV star regularly rocks daring outfits and wore a very similar ensemble last week while attending Paris Fashion Week.
Photos again captured the star wearing no bra and putting her breasts on display in a sheer top and miniskirt.
She was seen departing the famed Siena party hours after wearing an even more revealing number at the Grand Palais party with her sister, Sarah Jane.
Brooks rocked a form-fitting gold dress, zipped in the front, which proved dangerous as she kept falling out of it.
She also experienced an unexpected moment when a big gust of wind came, revealing she’d gone commando that night.
The week before, the Hulu star wore another sexy dress with an extremely low-cut neckline while at Milan Fashion Week.
Brooks became a household name after winning the Sports Illustrated Swim Search competition in 2019, which skyrocketed her modeling career.
Dancing With The Stars fans would also remember her from last season, when she competed with her partner, Gleb Savchenko.
The pair were eliminated after reaching ninth place, but their names continued to circulate in the media due to the romance that blossomed during their partnership.
However, their relationship ended not long after when Brooks accused Gleb of cheating on her, which he vehemently denied.
Brooks is now romantically linked to Spanish professional tennis player Carlos Alcaraz.
In addition to her modeling career and stint on DWTS, Brooks stars on the new reality TV series, Love Thy Nader, which premiered on Hulu earlier this year.
The show follows Brooks and her sisters —Mary Holland, Grace Ann, and Sarah Jane —as they navigate building careers in the Big Apple.
There’s been no word on whether a Season 2 of the series is on the horizon, as per this writing.
The reality star acknowledged the cameras as she paused to pose for picturesCredit: TheImageDirect.comBrooks stars in the new Hulu reality series, Love Thy Nader, with her three sistersCredit: Getty
“Days of Our Lives” actor Arianne Zucker has reached a settlement with the producers of the show after her 2024 lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and discrimination on the set of the soap opera.
Notice of the settlement was filed Thursday in Los Angeles County Superior Court. No further details about the settlement were included. Zucker’s attorney could not be immediately reached for comment.
Zucker had starred on “Days of Our Lives” since 1998, playing the character Nicole Walker. In her February 2024 lawsuit, she alleged that now-former executive producer Albert Alarr subjected her and other employees to “severe and pervasive harassment and discrimination, including sexual harassment, based upon their female gender.”
Zucker claimed that Alarr would grab and hug her, “purposely pushing her breasts onto his chest” while moaning sexually, according to the lawsuit. She also alleged that he would make “sexually charged comments” to her.
“Our client continues to deny the allegations set forth in the complaint,” Alarr’s attorney, Robert Barta, said in a statement. “However, in order to bring the litigation to the end, he has agreed to settle. This decision was made solely to end the dispute and move forward.”
Zucker’s lawsuit also named Corday Productions, which oversees the show, and its owner, Ken Corday, as defendants in the lawsuit, alleging retaliation. Zucker alleged that her pay was decreased and her travel stipend revoked after she voiced concerns. In June 2023, she said her character was written off the show after 20 years.
Several months later, Corday Productions offered to renew Zucker’s contract but allegedly did not negotiate with her representatives for higher pay, the lawsuit said.
Attorneys for Corday and Corday Productions did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Corday Productions previously told The Times in a statement that Zucker’s claims “are without merit” and that she was offered a pay increase upon an offer to renew her contract. The company said at the time that complaints about Alarr’s on-set behavior were “promptly investigated” and the company “fully cooperated with the impartial investigation and subsequently terminated Mr. Alarr.”
“Days of Our Lives” aired on Comcast-owned NBC from Nov. 8, 1965, to Sept. 9, 2022, before moving to the Comcast streaming platform Peacock in 2022.
In the late 1990s and early aughts, the conservative Parents Television Council struck fear in the hearts of network TV executives for its high-profile campaigns against shows it deemed too raunchy.
The watchdog group, founded by conservative commentator L. Brent Bozell III, railed against Fox’s “Melrose Place” and “Family Guy”; NBC’s “Just Shoot Me”; and the CW’s “Gossip Girl.” It also singled out CBS following the infamous Janet Jackson-Justin Timberlake “nipplegate” controversy during the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show when the singer’s breast was briefly exposed.
But the Parents Television Council Inc. — whose members lodged thousands of indecency complaints with the Federal Communications Commission — has folded. Earlier this month, the Burbank-based nonprofit filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Delaware court, saying it had $284,823 in liabilities, which include staff member salaries, insurance payments and credit card debt. The filing lists $91,874 in assets.
The group’s demise reflects broad cultural changes, including a fractured media environment and consumers’ shift to streaming and social media apps such as TikTok for entertainment. Parents also have tools, including the ability to configure settings on streaming accounts to try to shield children from inappropriate content.
The PTC’s power came, in large part, from its ability to flood the FCC with indecency complaints. But the FCC, which licenses broadcasters, does not regulate streaming services, YouTube or TikTok.
The council had clout with advertisers, which put pressure on network programmers to minimize shows that would raise the group’s ire and threats of boycotts.
“I’m disappointed but I’m still very proud of what we did and what we achieved,” Tim Winter, former president of the group, said Friday. “We were able to raise awareness about so many important issues — issues that are still out there.”
“Like most businesses, it came down to money,” said Winter, who retired three years ago. “It’s just a slog out there to fundraise.”
Decades ago, the group hauled in millions of dollars in donations. The PTC boasted more than 653,000 members and supporters by 2000. However, in 2023, the most recent year of available tax reports, the Parents Television Council raised just $1.6 million, down from $4.7 million in 2007.
Bozell, long a booster of President Trump, now serves in his administration as ambassador to South Africa.
One of the PTC’s early efforts was to urge broadcasters to reserve the 8 p.m. hour for family-friendly fare. That was the custom of the networks in the 1970s; but two decades later, there was a rise in sexually suggestive content.
Over the years, the group hired analysts to monitor TV programming, published detailed reports and TV show rankings. Winter testified before a U.S. Senate committee hearing in 2007 on the impact of media violence on children.
Advertisers were sensitive to the PTC’s warnings.
“We were able to redirect tens of millions of dollars away from more explicit programming and into more family-friendly shows,” Winter said.
The PTC also spoke out against media consolidation, which accelerated in the 1990s, “the problem of having too few voices hold the microphone,” Winter said.
Netflix responded by deleting a graphic suicide scene, and the show was later canceled.
“The media culture is no less toxic than it was years ago. And in some ways, it is more toxic,” Winter said, adding that other organizations will have to carry the mantle. “The mission is more important than ever.”
Graham Norton has finally revealed the Hollywood star he deemed to be his worst guest while hosting his BBC chat show as he describes the interview as ‘hell’
Graham Norton has revealed the worst guest he’s ever had on his show(Image: PA)
It is one of the main questions asked of TV chat show hosts and now, Graham Norton has finally revealed who has been his worst guest on The Graham Norton Show. He has welcomed huge A-listers onto his red sofa for over 18 years but not all of them have been a joy to be around.
Step forward Hollywood royalty Mark Wahlberg. The legendary actor was invited on to the BBC show back in 2013 to promote his movie Broken City. And Graham believes that the star was under the influence, making the interview “hell.”
Presenter Graham, 62, was speaking at the Henley Literary Festival last week Friday when the claim was made. In a revealing admission, he shared: “Mark Wahlberg was a weird one because when he arrived, he didn’t seem drunk.”
He added: “He told me about his film, told me a couple of stories about stunts going wrong or whatever, and then it was only 15 minutes into the show when whatever the hell was in his system really took hold – and it was hell.”
Things became so bad, Mark interrupted other guests when they were asked questions, until Mark reportedly fell asleep while actor Michael Fassbender, was in the middle of recalling an anecdote.
According to The Independent, Graham continued: “I thought, ‘this one is going well – I wonder why’ and I looked over at Mark Wahlberg and he was asleep, so yeah, we don’t encourage that.”
Earlier this month, the future of his TV show was announced and it looks as though fans of the show can breathe a sigh of relief as it has been commissioned for another three series. The 34th series is set to air next year.
Speaking of the return of his hugely popular show, the legendary presenter said of the news: “Getting to host my own chat show is a huge pleasure as well as a privilege. I’m thrilled that the BBC are allowing me to continue for another three years. The whole team is looking forward to bringing the world’s brightest stars into the homes of the great British public!”
And Head of Entertainment Kalpna Patel-Knight said: “We are thrilled that The Graham Norton Show will remain a flagship part of the BBC’s entertainment offering for another three series. Graham sets the gold standard for celebrity interviews and continues to attract the best global talent to his sofa, it’s no wonder that the show remains so beloved by our audiences.”
Graham will continue to work with So Television production company as well as the BBC. Managing Director of So Television Graham Stuart, went on to say: “We began the Norton Talk Show journey in 1998 and have never felt like stopping. So happy the BBC feel the same way.”
But it’s not just his work life that appears to be busy, so too is his home life as the TV star is currently in the middle of moving home after selling both his London and New York properties. Informing his podcast fans of the move, he said that the whole situation has left him “frazzled.”
Addressing the move on his Wanging On with Graham Norton and Maria McErlane, he said: “I’m very frazzled. We are attempting to move. We are very lucky in that we are able to move slowly, bit by bit. But the house we are moving out of, which I didn’t think had that much stuff in it.”
Viewers can’t stop talking about the new series on Netflix with some saying it’s the ‘best’ in a long time
Helen Kelly Head of Screen Time
22:31, 11 Oct 2025
The ensemble go through boot camp forming alliances and unlikely bonds
The Netflix series fans can’t stop raving about is set in the tough, unpredictable world of the 1990s US Marine Corp, when being gay in the military was still illegal.
It follows Cameron Cope (played by Miles Heizer ) – who is keeping his sexuality hidden – and his best friend Ray McAffey (Liam Oh), the son of a decorated Marine, as they join a diverse group of recruits.
The ensemble go through boot camp forming alliances and unlikely bonds as they are pushed to the limits.
Boots is an eight-part comedy drama that focuses on friendship, resilience, and finding your place in the world.
The series may have only been out for a matter of days but it’s already in the number seven spot on Netflix.
One viewer reviewed: “Boots on Netflix??? I’m OBSESSED. The best show in a while.”
While another added: “Boots on Netflix is phenomenal. Binged it in one day, and couldn’t stop. Max Parker absolutely *crushed* it as Sullivan and I’d watch an entire season just about his journey.”
A third begged for more episodes, writing: “I binged the entirety of Boots today on Netflix. Absolutely in love. It’s like Orange is the New Black, but 90’s military. I need season 2 nowwww.”
Another continued: “If you’re looking for something to watch this weekend, I highly recommend Boots on @Netflix, starring the wonderful actor Miles Hezier. I unashamedly binged all episodes in one sitting.#Boots.”
Someone else shared: “I just finished #boots and I LOVED IT <3 so fun but also dramatic and the characters are interesting! I think it’s not gonna get renewed but i hope i’m wrong!!”
Thankfully, the cast are hopeful the series will be renewed. Speaking to Radio Times, lead actor Miles shared: “It would be interesting to see him navigating that, especially in this military world.
“That would be cool. But like Max said, there’s so many different directions and so many things I would love to see. But just for fun, I’d like to see a little romance.”
Co-star Liam added: “He ends the season in this interesting spot of really questioning the path that he’s been on for the first time since he was a kid.
“I would like to see him continue to interrogate the choices that he’s made in his life, or the choices that he hasn’t made, that have been made for him by his father, by this sense of duty that he has.”
A Grammy Award for best new artist. Four top 10 hits since September 2024. Sold-out gigs packed with admirers in pink cowgirl hats wherever she goes.
At 27, Chappell Roan has unquestionably become one of pop’s new queens. But let it never be said that this powerhouse singer and songwriter rules without mercy.
As her band vamped on the intro to her song “Hot to Go!” on Friday night, Roan surveyed the tens of thousands spread across the leafy grounds surrounding the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.
“We’re gonna teach you a dance,” she said, though few in the audience probably needed the lesson at this point in Roan’s ascent. For more than a year, social media has been awash in video clips of Roan’s fans doing a “Y.M.C.A.”-like routine in time to the frenzied chorus of “Hot to Go!”
But wait a minute: “There’s a dad in the crowd that’s not doing it,” Roan reported with practiced disbelief. The band stopped playing. “There’s a dad that’s not doing it,” she repeated — less incredulous than reproving now.
“But he looks really, really nice, so I’m not gonna do anything about it.”
Roan’s show Friday was the first of two in Pasadena to wrap a brief U.S. tour.
(Brian Feinzimer/For The Times)
Friday’s show, which Roan said was the biggest headlining date she’d ever played, was the first of two at Brookside at the Rose Bowl to conclude a brief run of U.S. concerts she’s calling Visions of Damsels & Other Dangerous Things. The performances in New York, Kansas City and Pasadena can be seen as something of a victory lap after the slow-building success of her 2023 debut album, “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess,” which beyond “Hot to Go!” has spun off numerous other hits including “My Kink Is Karma” and the inescapable “Pink Pony Club.”
That last song, which has more than a billion streams on Spotify and YouTube, documents a young queer woman’s sexual awakening at a West Hollywood gay club; Roan’s music sets thoughts of pleasure, heartache and self-discovery against a gloriously theatrical blend of synth-pop, disco, glam rock and old-fashioned torch balladry.
Having spent this past summer on the European festival circuit, she’s said that Visions of Damsels represents “the chance to do something special before going away to write the next album”; the mini-tour also keeps her in the conversation as nominations are being decided for next year’s Grammys, where she’s likely to vie for record and song of the year with “The Subway,” one of a handful of singles she’s released since “Midwest Princess.”
Yet as clearly as it showcased her natural star quality — the stage was designed like a gothic castle with various staircases for Roan to descend dramatically — this was really a demonstration of the intimate bond she’s forged with her fans, many of whom came to the show dressed in one of the singer’s signature looks: harlequin, majorette, prom queen, construction worker.
An hour or so into her 90-minute set, Roan sat in a giant throne with a toy creature she called her tour pet and recalled her move to Los Angeles nearly a decade ago from small-town Missouri.
“I had a really, really tough time the first five years,” she said, adding that she’d lived in Altadena when she first arrived. (In a bit of now-infamous Chappell Roan lore, she was dropped by Atlantic Records in 2020 after the label decided “Pink Pony Club” was not a hit.) She talked about how much she loves this city — “F— ICE forever,” she said at one point to huge applause — but bemoaned the “weird professionalism” she can feel when she’s onstage in L.A.
“I know there’s a lot of people in the music and film industry here, and I don’t want you to think about that,” she said. “Don’t f—ing talk about it. Don’t talk about work here. I just want you to feel like you did when you were a kid — when you were 13 and free.” She laughed.
“I’m just gonna shut up — I’m so dumb,” she said. Then she sang the lovelorn “Coffee” like someone confessing her greatest fear.
Roan said Friday’s show was the biggest headlining date she’d ever played.
(Brian Feinzimer/For The Times)
Though the castle set was impressively detailed, Roan’s production was relatively low-key by modern pop standards; she had no dancers and no special guests and wore just one costume that she kept removing pieces from to end up in a kind of two-piece dragon-skin bikini.
But that’s because at a Chappell Roan show, Chappell Roan is the show: a fearsomely talented purveyor of feeling and attitude whose campy sense of humor only heightens the exquisite melancholy of her music.
Her singing was immaculate yet hot-blooded, bolstered by a killer band that remade songs like “Good Luck, Babe!” and “Red Wine Supernova” as slashing ’80s-style rock; Roan covered Heart’s “Barracuda” with enough strutting imperiousness to compete with Nancy Wilson’s iconic guitar riff.
“The Giver” was a stomping glitter-country hoedown, “Naked in Manhattan” a naughty electro-pop romp. For “Picture You,” which is about longing to know a lover’s secrets, Roan serenaded a blond wig plopped atop a mic stand — a bit of absurdist theater she played completely straight.
The heart of the concert was the stunning one-two punch of “Casual” into “The Subway,” Roan’s most grandly emotional ballads, in which her voice soared with what seemed like total effortlessness.
After that is when the singer noticed that kindly dad shirking his duties in “Hot to Go!” Maybe the poor guy was just too dazzled to take part.
A LUCKY viewer of a brand new ITV game show has walked away with an eye-watering £1million.
Sienna McSwiggan, 20, secured the top prize last night on Win Win with People’s Postcode Lottery on Saturday night.
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Sienna McSwiggan, 20, broke down in tears after winning the huge jackpot
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After trading in a trip to the Maldives, she took home £1millionCredit: ITV
The hotel manager from The Black Country took home the £1million cash prize, as well as two cars, two luxuryholidays, a trip to Australia to see The Ashes and Take That tickets.
After answering the winning question correctly, Sienna questioned if it was real and said the money would be life-changing for herself and family.
She said: “I don’t even know what to say. I am in shock.
“I’ve literally got a penny in my account.
“I’m over the moon. It feel like a dream and someone’s gonna wake me up any minute.”
Hosted by Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins, the quiz show sees contestants battling it out in the studio.
At home viewers can also get involved and play for prizes.
However, the show’s format also allows these viewers to become contestants in the studio.
Once they have bagged a prize, players have to face the ultimate decision.
They must choose between keeping their original prize or risk it all and trade it in to join Millionaire’s row.
Watch as one young woman shares how her family won the lottery
Sienna took the gamble and traded a trip to the Maldives for a chance to win big.
The risk saw her take home one of the UK’s biggest telly prizes.
Last month, The Sun reported that another contestant took home a huge £20,000 jackpot.
After answering the final question correctly, Shayanne took home the winning prize.
Previously discussing the format, Mel Giedroyc said: “This quiz is so extra!
“Imagine winning something like a car just by playing along with a gameshow you’re watching on a Saturday night in your pyjamas?
“I can’t wait!”
Sue Perkins added: “If I wasn’t hosting this, I’d be playing it at home; sat in my leopard print onesie, cuddling the dog whilst trying to figure out The Nation’s favourite chocolate bar. Bring it on!”
Speaking to The Mirror ahead of yesterday’s finale, Sue added: “Saturday’s show really is going to be a night like no other.
“The thrilling thing, of course, is that all of this is going to be won by one person, and that person might even be a viewer turned contestant, who simply signed up, joined in from their sofa and got the surprise of their life.”
Hardest Quiz Show Questions
Would you know the answers to some of quizzing TV’s hardest questions
Who Wants To Be A Millionaire – Earlier this year, fans were left outraged after what they described as the “worst” question in the show’s history. Host Jeremy Clarkson asked: “From the 2000 awards ceremony onwards, the Best Actress Oscar has never been won by a woman whose surname begins with which one of these letters?” The multiple choice answers were between G, K, M and W. In the end, and with the £32,000 safe, player Glen had to make a guess and went for G. It turned out to be correct as Nicole Kidman, Frances McDormand and Kate Winslet are among the stars who have won the Best Actress gong since 2000.
The 1% Club – Viewers of Lee Mack’s popular ITV show were left dumbfounded by a question that also left the players perplexed. The query went as follows: “Edna’s birthday is on the 6th of April and Jen’s birthday falls on the 15th of October, therefore Amir’s birthday must be the ‘X’ of January.” It turns out the conundrum links the numbers with its position in the sentence, so 6th is the sixth word and 15th is the fifteenth word. Therefore, Amir’s birthday is January 24th, corresponding to the 24th word in the sentence.
The Chase – The ITV daytime favourite left fans scratching their heads when it threw up one of the most bizarre questions to ever grace the programme. One of the questions asked the player: “Someone with a nightshade intolerance should avoid eating what?” The options were – sweetcorn, potatoes, carrots – with Steve selecting sweetcorn but the correct answer was potatoes.
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Last night, a contestant took home a £1million cash prizeCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
