Love Island fans have already ‘worked out’ who will win the series despite the final being weeks away as they spotted a major clue during recent episodes
22:19, 17 Jul 2025Updated 22:20, 17 Jul 2025
Fans are convinced Yas and Jamie will win the show(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
Love Island fans think they’ve already worked out who will win the 12th series of the show after spotting a major clue in recent episodes.
It’s been drama galore during recent Love Island episodes, with couples swapping left right and centre. However, one couple who have remained strong throughout are Yasmine and Jamie. Staying out of the drama, the couple were sent on an adorable date last night, where they opened up about their families and got to know each other even deeper.
It was love at first sight for the couple when Jamie joined the main villa in Casa Amor, as he and Yas kissed moments into him arriving. Since then, they’ve only had eyes for each other, and fans are loving it.
Yas and Jamie were sent on a date amid all the drama yesterday(Image: ITV)
It’s become evident the couple are fan favourites, as in today’s challenge, Couple of Sorts, the two were voted the hottest by the public – and now viewers are convinced they’ll win the whole show. “Yas and Jamie will win the whole show,” wrote one.
Many are rooting for the two to take home the title, as one took to X, formerly known as Twitter to write: “Yas & Jamie … winners! #loveisland,” as a second agreed: “hoping that yas and jamie will be our next kai and sanam, i need them to win and get married #loveisland.”
“Yas and Jamie 1st. Then Shakira 2nd. Then Toni and Cash 3rd after she goes back,” said a third, while another said: “Yasmine and Jamie got a date before Meg and Dejon, winners!”
Fans are rooting for the pair to take the crown(Image: ITV)
“Wrap up this series now and crown Yasmine and Jamie as the winners,” a fifth said.
It was a tough time for Yasmine before Jamie entered the villa, as although she’d explored a number of options, nothing quite clicked until Casa Amor.
She’d kissed Harry, Ben and most recently Conor, before forming a meaningful connection with Jamie.
Yasmine entered the villa as an early bombshell along with Malisha and Emily – and is now the last one standing. Malisha was brutally dumped from the villa after Harrison chose to take Toni back to the villa after dating them both.
Emily was sent home after Tommy came back from Casa Amor with Lucy, although the couple were dumped themselves shortly after as ‘most compatible couple’ Shakira and Ty decided to send them home.
Love Island continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
Mike Swigunski, an “eight-figure entrepreneur” and TEDx speaker, has visited more than 100 countries and has named his top five – and one is a “fairy tale city”
Mike described one as not only a “feast for the eyes” but also the palate(Image: Getty Images)
A globe-trotting entrepreneur who’s visited over 100 countries has revealed his top five favourite destinations — including one he describes as a “fairy tale city.” Mike Swigunski, an “eight-figure entrepreneur” and TEDx speaker with extensive travel experience, posed an intriguing question to his 5,000-plus YouTube followers.
He asked where they’d choose if restricted to visiting just five countries for the rest of their lives — a “fun” mental exercise he’d previously explored with several mates.
He then revealed his personal favourites, with selections stretching from the Americas through Europe and extending to Asia.
His choices included a country “full of pristine beaches” and a more unexpected choice offering “just about every landscape imaginable”.
Mike explained that Thailand would be high on his list(Image: Getty Images)
Thailand
Mike said: “One of my favourite countries in the world is full of pristine beaches, has some of the best food of any country I’ve ever been to, and costs a fraction of the price — even 13 times cheaper than the United States.”
He explained that Thailand would be high on his list, citing the “great” climate, the cost of living, the “super high quality” of food, and accommodation that’s available for a “fraction of the price.”
When it comes to local attractions, Mike said he’s a fan of the beaches, forests, the country’s “super rich” history, and — once again — the food.
Mike described Prague as a “fairy tale city” with well-preserved medieval architecture(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
The Czech Republic
Mike said: “One of my favourite countries — and more importantly, favourite cities — is actually the most beautiful city I’ve ever seen in my life.”
He was describing Prague, the Czech capital. He portrayed it as a “fairy tale city” featuring well-preserved medieval architecture and specifically praised the “iconic” Charles Bridge.
Mike also lavished praise on other regions of the country, including the historic town of Český Krumlov. Regarding cuisine, he enjoys Czech goulash and svíčková (a beef dish served in a creamy sauce).
Italy
Mike said: “Another one of my favourite countries is good at just about everything — from food, drinks, culture, history, experiences. They have great beaches, beautiful mountains, and an amazing transport system.”
He spoke about his extensive travels across “50 different cities and locations” in Italy over a span of 15 years, highlighting the ancient ruins of Rome, the iconic canals of Venice, and the breathtaking Renaissance art found in Florence.
He praised Italy as a visual and culinary delight, lauding its “world-renowned” wines, cheeses, pasta, and pizzas, and noted how each region offers a unique taste of Italian culture.
The YouTuber was particularly fond of Georgia(Image: Getty)
Georgia
He was equally enthusiastic about Georgia, describing it as a country with “just about every landscape imaginable” and calling it a “hidden gem” rich in history, with warm people and “stunning” vistas.
He singled out Georgian delicacies such as khachapuri, a cheese-stuffed bread, and khinkali, meat-filled dumplings, as culinary highlights.
USA
Finally, he selected his home country, the US, as one of the nations he’d choose if he were only allowed five to visit for the rest of his life, mentioning that it’s where he has “so many” friends and family members.
He explained that he cherishes his time in the US because he can spend time with some of his “favourite people” in the world, adding that having the US on his list is “absolutely essential.”
Abersoch is a beautiful coastal village on what’s known as the ‘Welsh Riviera’ – boasting sandy beaches, resident dolphins and one of the UK’s best ice cream parlours
Abersoch is a beautiful coastal village on what’s known as the ‘Welsh Riviera’ – boasting sandy beaches, resident dolphins and one of the UK’s best ice cream parlours(Image: wellsie82 via Getty Images)
One of Wales’ best coastal towns, boasting sandy beaches, resident dolphins and a chic ice cream parlour recently crowned as one of the UK’s top spots for ice cream by the Sunday Times, is nestled on the Llŷn Peninsula. Situated on Pen Llŷn, the seaside town of Abersoch is among the most picturesque locations along the Llŷn.
This northwestern Welsh peninsula is brimming with natural splendour, rich cultural heritage, and idyllic beaches. Flanked by the crystal-clear waters of the Irish Sea on one side and Cardigan Bay on the other, this Welsh region offers an ideal alternative to a holiday abroad, complete with a plethora of activities, accommodation options, and independent eateries and cafes.
Visitors can explore remnants of Iron Age forts and islands, expansive stretches of sandy beaches, and numerous charming coastal villages and historical sites.
This coastal bolthole is also renowned for its water sports(Image: Daily Post Wales)
Dubbed the ‘Welsh Riviera,’ Abersoch, located on the southern part of the Llŷn, is renowned for its sandy beaches, internationally acclaimed sailing waters, and a bustling high street lined with trendy bars, restaurants, major brands, and independent shops, reports Wales Online.
Visit on a warm day when the skies are clear and the sea glistens, and you’ll understand why Abersoch draws thousands to this scenic corner of Gwynedd each summer. This coastal hideaway is also famed for its water sports, particularly paddle boarding. If fortune favours, you might even spot resident dolphins gliding through the transparent waters.
The protected bay offers ideal conditions for novice and seasoned paddleboarders alike, with the village staging numerous events and competitions throughout the year, drawing enthusiasts from across the UK.
You can reserve a SUP session through Abersoch Watersports, where skilled instructors will lead you around the stunning coastline, highlighting marine wildlife and coastal landmarks.
Beautiful Porth Ceiriad beach lies on a remote stretch of coastline on the Llŷn Peninsula(Image: Google)
Fresh to paddle boarding? You can plunge into the #SUP lifestyle and master paddle boarding with their ISA-certified instructors using premium Red Paddle Co paddleboards.
You’ll receive coaching in the bay and master proper paddle methods to boost confidence and enhance your SUP abilities so you can emerge from the water and begin searching for dolphins.
Another major attraction in the town is the expansive sandy shoreline, which the AA has previously recognised as one of the ‘finest seaside destinations’.
The AA characterised Abersoch Beach as a scenic Welsh location: “The top place goes to this sandy beach, which is dog-friendly and also manned by lifeguards. There are two nearby tourist attractions: the Porth y Swnt Interpretation Centre and Nant Gwrtheyrn, which is home to the National Welsh Language and Heritage Centre.”
Close by sits Harbour Beach, a stretch of sand along the River Soch nestled between the harbour and Warren Beach. For those seeking adventure, Porth Ceiriad is an isolated beach that can prove challenging to locate.
Despite its proximity to the bustling Abersoch, this heavenly location stays relatively undiscovered, something that devoted visitors surely cherish. According to North Wales Live, its misleading nearness to Abersoch and the surrounding clifftops contribute to the enigma of locating this hidden gem.
The quest to uncover Porth Ceiriad has become legendary amongst locals. It gained the nickname “Porth Ceiriad Mystery Tour” due to the peculiar phenomenon of vanishing holidaymakers misguided by faulty Satnav systems and baffling maps.
Following your exploration of Abersoch’s stunning shores and coastline, be sure to treat yourself to ice cream at Two Islands, a artisanal ice cream parlour recently crowned as one of Wales’ finest frozen dessert destinations.
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Both residents and visitors have been singing the praises of this delightful ice cream haven since its 2018 launch, and the Sunday Times has now bestowed its official endorsement. Their journalists declared it amongst the premier locations for a cornet and advised readers, “Don’t miss the raspberry ripple.”
Jack Pollitt from Two Islands Ice Cream in Abersoch(Image: Daily Post Wales)
This artisanal ice cream parlour crafts their frozen treats on the premises using regional and natural components, including Welsh free-range eggs and organic and fair-trade ingredients sourced from SUMA, a cooperative that champions exemplary and equitable employment practices. Taking a leaf out of the book from ice cream parlours they visited on the west coast of America, this small enterprise is on a mission to whip up indulgent textures and innovative flavours, all with a nod to their Welsh roots.
Their dynamic menu is a testament to their commitment to seasonal produce, but rest assured, you’ll always encounter a quirky twist on some classic favourites. The Salted Coffee flavour is a hit among Two Islands fans, boasting a unique fusion of Coaltown espresso and HALEN MôN sea salt, while the mascarpone and blackcurrant combo becomes an instant highlight whenever it features.
Two Islands doesn’t just serve up delicious treats; they’re also dedicated to green practices: “Everything they are involved in – from pod picking to package recycling – is as sustainable, ethical and conscientious as possible.”
Proudly proclaiming on their website, “We use real vanilla from LITTLE POD,” they celebrate the independent company’s recognition with the Queen’s Enterprise Award for sustainability.
Finding great Mexican food in unexpected places. Losing the city of L.A.’s oldest restaurant. A guide to the vegan ice cream boom. The Italian potatoes that changed Jenn Harris’ mind about fat fries. And “some guy on Tripadvisor.” I’m Laurie Ochoa, general manager of L.A. Times Food, with this week’s Tasting Notes.
Salbute salute
Salbute with Yucatan-inspired racado negro chicken at Sanchez in Copenhagen.
(Laurie Ochoa / Los Angeles Times)
As Angelenos, we don’t think twice about eating Mexican food one day, Thai food the next and Korean food the day after that. Weekend breakfast with friends is as likely to be Chinese rice porridge as it is a plate of buckwheat pancakes or chilaquiles. In fact, we rarely bother to break down our dining choices by cuisine. It’s more, let’s go get some ramen or birria or boat noodles.
And yet, when I landed in Copenhagen late last month, with all the glories of smørrebrød and cutting-edge Nordic cuisine to explore — including two places in the city (Noma and Geranium) named at different points the No. 1 restaurant in the world on the World’s 50 Best list — the first place I headed was a Mexican restaurant.
Of course, the restaurant, Sanchez, is no ordinary Mexican spot. The owner, Rosio Sanchez, was the head pastry chef for Rene Redzepi at Noma for five years before opening her first Copenhagen taqueria, Hija de Sanchez, in 2015. She briefly returned to collaborate with Redzepi on Noma’s 2017 Mexico pop-up in Tulum. If a real-life version of “The Bear” character Marcus (Lionel Boyce) had been sent to Copenhagen for pastry chef training at the world’s best restaurant in 2014, Sanchez likely would have been his mentor, not Will Poulter‘s character Luca. Indeed, Sanchez appears in the series’ chef-packed Season 3 finale talking about why she loves to cook. And one of Sanchez’s former chefs, Laura Cabrera, has risen to lead her own kitchen at the zero-waste restaurant Baldío in Mexico City.
Chef Rosio Sanchez at the Kødbyen location of her Copenhagen taqueria Hija de Sanchez in 2016.
(Laurie Ochoa / Los Angeles Times)
When I first ate Sanchez’s Mexican cooking in 2016 at Hija de Sanchez, I was immediately struck by the skill of her tortilla making, not easy in a place where masa is not readily available, and the way she was able make food that felt completely Mexican while incorporating Danish ingredients — a fjord shrimp taco, for instance, or gooseberry salsa. Never mind that as she told Margy Rochlin in this paper during a 2017 guest chef appearance at the L.A. Times Food Bowl with Sqirl‘s Jessica Koslow, some of her first customers in Copenhagen called tortillas “pancakes.” Or that when she saw Danes eating tacos with a fork and knife she had an illustrated and nonjudgmental “how to eat your taco” poster made. Since those early days, Copenhagen eaters have taken to her tacos. There are now five Hija de Sanchez taquerias across the city.
Al pastor, barbacoa and vegetarian tacos plus a glass of jamaica at the Torvehallerne food market location of Rosio Sanchez’s Copenhagen taqueria Hija de Sanchez.
(Laurie Ochoa / Los Angeles Times)
But Sanchez was not solely interested in exploring tacos. At the end of 2017 she opened Sanchez, a restaurant that elevates Mexican cuisine while still keeping it approachable. In its current form, the restaurant offers a five-course tasting menu for the rough equivalent of $82 with the option of an even more affordable three-course meal for about $59. If you want still more, you can add extra courses — such as an oyster with a sauce of habanero and sea buckthorn, or a slender bean, sheep cheese and cured egg burrito.
The oyster was a good, bracing start. And lime-cured langoustine ceviche, served aguachile style, with a verde sauce and fermented tomato water, kept the freshness going. But it was the salbute, with a jolt of intense corn from the puffed fried tortilla and layers of deep, complex flavors from chicken cooked in recado negro sauce, made with charred chiles, plus grilled bladderwrack seaweed in place of lettuce, a quail egg and a drizzle of habanero-árbol chile oil that showed how Sanchez is combining tradition, local ingredients and her own new way of approaching Mexican food.
Monkfish cheek, marinated al pastor style, beautifully charred and served with herbs on a lightly charred lettuce leaf came next. It all led to carnitas tacos that we assembled ourselves with freshly made tortillas, herbs, salsa, pickled jalapeño and onion, plus, because this is Copenhagen, green sea buckthorn.
The night’s most memorable dish, however, was dessert. The menu’s description was understated: chocolate mousse. But what is usually a satisfying but unexciting dish came out with a ring of salsa macha, crunchy with pumpkin seeds and preserved ancho chiles, a layer of whipped cream and, for good measure, roasted kelp and drips of olive oil. The mousse itself was made chocolate from Chiapas and hid a nugget of more chiles underneath.
Chocolate mouse with salsa macha, whipped cream and roasted kelp at Sanchez in Copenhagen.
(Laurie Ochoa / Los Angeles Times)
The spicy and sweet flavors felt both old and new. It’s the kind of dish that shows that Mexican cuisine even thousands of miles away from Mexico itself is still evolving. Now if only we could get Sanchez to open a branch of her restaurant here in L.A.
Loss and uneasy hope
Cole’s French Dip on 6th Street in downtown Los Angeles will close its doors on Aug. 2.
(Con Keyes / Los Angeles Times)
It’s been a tough week for L.A. restaurants. Karla Marie Sanford reports that Cole’s French Dip, which opened in 1908, making it the city’s oldest restaurant, will close its doors on Aug. 2. “By the time the Olympics get here, all these mom and pops will be gone,” said Brian Lenzo, senior vice president of operations for Cedd Moses’ Pouring With Heart, which took over the downtown L.A. restaurant in 2008. “Hopefully it’s a wakeup call for the right people to step up and figure out a plan.”
Senior food editor Danielle Dorsey reports that Alisa Reynolds’ soul food bistro My 2 Cents, on The Times’ 101 Best Restaurants in L.A. list, will close on July 31 after 12 years on Pico Boulevard. Reynolds plans to focus on catering, pop-ups and collaborations.
And Lauren Ng reports that Melody, the Virgil Village natural wine bar that hosted many pop-ups during its nearly 10 years in business, will close this weekend, though owner Eric Tucker will open a temporary “Bar Band-Aid” pizza spot on July 16 until the Craftsman bungalow space can be sold.
Members of the Morfin family eat tacos and drink agua frescas at El Gato Night Market.
(Luke Johnson / Los Angeles Times)
But there are some signs of resilience even in this tough climate. Ng spent time at the recently reopenedEl Gato Night Market, which shut down for two weeks after ICE raids heated up in Los Angeles. Though more than half of the market’s 70 to 80 vendors had not returned in the first days of the reopening and business was slow at first, the crowds started to return after a few days. “Vendors, many of whom worry for their safety and the future of their businesses, show up for work out of necessity,” Ng writes, “but also to provide comfort and familiarity for customers, most of whom are Latino and often bring their young children.”
Maria Sanchez, known as “Maria la de los Burritos” sells $5 burritos in Watts out of the trunk of her car.
(Yasara Gunawardena / For The Times)
Meanwhile, when Maria Sanchez, known on social media as “Maria la de los Burritos,” was asked to leave her usual burrito-selling spot outside a Home Depot after ICE raids started happening, she was undeterred. She packed her gold-foil-wrapped burritos in the trunk of her car and found eager customers at construction sites. Her carne asada burritos typically sell out in 30 minutes. Contributor Madeleine Connorsprofiles the maker of these internet-viral burritos that are also doing some good for L.A. workers.
Also …
Awan offers more than a dozen flavors of the fully vegan ice cream made with coconut cream and Balinese vanilla.
(Stephanie Breijo / Los Angeles Times)
The days of chalky, grainy, barely sweet plant-based ice cream are in the past, says contributor Omari Allen, who writes about the blossoming of vegan ice cream in Los Angeles and put together a guide to 10 of the best shops serving great dairy-free ice cream.
Hawa Hassan, author of “Setting a Place for Us” and “In Bibi’s Kitchen,” made arnabeet mekleh — Lebanese fried cauliflower with tahini — in the Times Test Kitchen. Watch how she did it and get the recipe.
Jewel Thais-Williams, founder of L.A.’s Black lesbian and queer nightclub Jewel’s Catch One, has died at the age of 86. “Jewel’s Catch One became a kind of West Coast Studio 54,” writes August Brown. “People came from all over the world to party there. Europe, South America — they’d come straight from LAX and leave their bags at coat check,” Thais-Williams’ sister Carol Williams told Brown. “The club was universally known for its acceptance.”
And finally … a word from ‘some guy on Tripadvisor’
The sign outside Sliders in Copenhagen: “Try the worst sliders some guy on Tripadvisor has ever had in his entire life alongside enjoying our ‘terrible service.’”
(Laurie Ochoa / Los Angeles Times)
Restaurants handle negative customer feedback in different ways. Some, as this sign seen outside the burger bar Sliders in Copenhagen, embrace it. The invitation: “Try the worst sliders some guy on Tripadvisor has ever had in his entire life alongside enjoying our ‘terrible service.’ ” It certainly got my attention. If I hadn’t already filled up on smørrebrød, I would have stopped in for a “lamb za’atar spectacular” or “decadent Dane” (beef patty, melted Danish cheese, caramelized onions and pickled apple) slider.
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The head of production at Dhar Mann Studios, which makes shows for YouTube and other online platforms, said entertainment industry friends in Los Angeles had once held out before seeking work in the digital realm.
But now, with jobs few and far between at the legacy studios, they are reaching out “all the time” looking for opportunities at the Burbank-based studio, known for posting family-friendly dramas addressing topics like bullying.
Seeing some of her peers now flock to be a part of production companies built for distribution on YouTube and other online platforms is exciting for Gray, who worked in traditional television for more than a decade and joined Dhar Mann Studios in February.
“It’s giving people hope that they can get back to work again,” she said. “And it’s not just monetary hope for their house and their kids. It actually is giving their own being life again to bring their creative element.”
Pave Studios founder Max Cutler.
(Christina House / Los Angeles Times)
In Hollywood’s TV and film industries, droves of workers are competing for jobs at a time when many companies are consolidating and laying off hundreds of people at a time. But one segment of the entertainment industry has emerged as a bright spot — the economy made up of people creating video for YouTube and social media.
That part of the industry, once dominated by amateurs making funny viral videos with smartphones has blossomed into a formidable entertainment force, where video creators are setting up real businesses with large studios in Southern California funded through advertising by major brands.
Dhar Mann Studios plans to add 15 positions to its staff of about 75 full-time employees. In Sherman Oaks, Pave Studios, which produces wellness- and true-crime-related shows, is adding 16 full-time workers to its staff of 67 contractors and employees.
Nationwide, there were more than 490,000 jobs supported by YouTube’s creative ecosystem last year, according to the Google-owned video platform, citing data from Oxford Economics. That’s roughly 60,000 more jobs than in 2023, YouTube said.
“It’s beginning to mature into creators really building businesses,” said Thomas Kim, YouTube’s director of product management for creator monetization. “We see more and more of that, and that also means that the number of employees and help that they need to sustain their business has grown over time.”
Sean Atkins, chief executive of Dhar Mann Studios, called it a big growth opportunity in the market. YouTube is a major player in streaming, representing 12.5% of U.S. TV viewing in May, according to Nielsen, more than streaming services including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
“Everything is so new and nascent,” said Atkins, a former president at MTV. “I imagine, particularly when you walk around our studio … that this is what it looked like in the ‘20s when MGM and Disney and Warner [Bros.] were [founded]. Just this enthusiastic chaos where everyone’s trying to figure out what this environment is.”
The growth in Southern California influencer businesses is a boon to the local production economy that is otherwise struggling. L.A. County saw a 27% decline to 108,564 employees from 2022 to 2024 in the motion picture and sound recording industries, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Many Hollywood workers have struggled to find roles, as studios cut down on their programming after the 2023 actor and writer strikes and after overspending during the streaming wars. For years, productions have fled the area to take advantage of lucrative financial incentives out of state and abroad. Production in L.A. County also took a hit following devastating wildfires in January.
Meanwhile, the amount of employment in the creator economy is trending up, according to the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corp. Total workers in the L.A. County creator economy, composed of businesses such as media streaming distribution services and social networks, as well as independent artists, writers and performers, increased 5% to 70,012 from 2022 to 2024, LAEDC said. Companies in the creator economy space also increased 5% to 46,425 businesses during the same time period, according to LAEDC.
The bleak job market has caused more people who have worked in traditional studio and TV networks to apply for jobs at digital media companies that produce content for platforms such as YouTube or work with influencers who are growing their staffs.
The migration reflects changing realities in the business. Consumers’ habits have shifted, where more people are watching YouTube on TV screens these days instead of on smartphones in the U.S., eating into territory held by broadcast and cable television. Video creators have adapted, building production teams and expanding into podcasts, merchandise and sometimes scoring streaming deals.
For example, one of YouTube’s top creators, Jimmy Donaldson, known as MrBeast, has a reality competition show on Amazon Prime Video, sells products such as Feastables chocolates and has brand partnerships and sponsorships. His North Carolina holding company, Beast Industries, employs more than 500 people.
Kyle Hjelmeseth, chief executive of talent representation firm G&B Digital Management, said he is receiving more calls from people coming with traditional media backgrounds seeking collaborations with influencers.
“Five years ago, it would have been very different,” he said. “Anytime that somebody from Hollywood or the entertainment complex talked about creators, it was with such a different lens … a little bit like nose in the air.”
His company, which has 25 contractors, part-time and full time employees, added four people last month with plans to hire more.
“All the pressures of what’s happening in Hollywood and the growth of the creator economy [are] crashing into each other in this moment, and that’s why we’re having a conversation about jobs, because there’s such a shift in the energy, and we’re certainly feeling it,” he said.
Morgan Absher, left, and Kaelyn Moore, right, record “Clues” podcast at Pave Studios.
(Christina House / Los Angeles Times)
Pave Studios launched last year with fewer than 10 employees and now has grown to 67 contractors and employees. Part of that growth is fueled by the increasing audience for its videos and podcasts available on platforms including YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The company is hiring for roles including executive producers, with a pay range of $95,000 to $145,000, depending on the show, said founder Max Cutler.
“As we grow and as the business becomes more complicated, you need more specialists and more people,” Cutler said. “Video is definitely a leading growth area for us.”
Jen Passovoy joined Pave Studios in January as a producer, after working for 10 years at Paramount on competition series such as “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and “Ink Master.”
“Coming from a traditional TV background, I was drawn to how nimble and audience-focused the company is,” Passovoy said in an email. “There’s less red tape and more room to actually create. You get the energy of a startup with the same high-quality content you’d expect from a major studio.”
Passovoy, 34, said the job market for traditional studio and TV network workers is really tough right now.
“I know more people out of work right now than working, which says a lot,” she said. “The traditional TV model just doesn’t exist in the same way anymore. Budgets are shrinking and the jobs that used to be steady aren’t there. There have been so many layoffs across the industry, and it’s forced a lot of incredibly talented people to rethink how and where they create.”
Skills that people develop in traditional studio and TV roles can translate to digital-first roles, including video editors for influencers and digital media companies, industry observers said.
The creator economy also has more specialized roles, such as thumbnail designers — people who create the images used to tease videos on sites including YouTube. Those jobs can pay six figures annually, as they can be instrumental for getting audiences to click on those videos.
Roster, a hiring platform that lists job postings in the creator space, said the number of employers signing up to hire on the site has increased by nearly 80% from January to June 2025. Based on a sampling of 1,430 creator job posts in 2025, Roster said the most popular open position was video editor (representing 42.5%), followed by thumbnail designer (16.1%) and producer (10.6%).
There are downsides. Not all jobs are full-time. Many creators opt to hire freelancers.
“Their production needs need to expand and shrink like an accordion,” said Sherry Wong, CEO of Roster. “That’s why we see a lot of creators, even if they’re really big established creators, they are hiring freelancers, contractors, and being able to keep it as lean as possible.”
With so many people looking for work, there‘s intense competition for those jobs, and the ways to apply can be creative and involved.
Miami-based creator Jenny Hoyos found freelancers through a hiring challenge she hosted on Roster. Applicants were given 10 minutes of raw video footage and instructed to edit it down to a video short, roughly 30 to 60 seconds long.
Hoyos, 20, requested that applicants create a final product that was engaging, cohesive and matched her specific style. She received more than 100 submissions.
While there were strong contenders from California, the winners ended up being from Brazil and India. They became her two go-to freelancers, who she said are essentially working an amount equivalent to full-time editors.
This method of seeking talent was Hoyos’ way of making sure the people she brought on to her team were willing to go the extra mile, she said. Those hoping to break into the digital media world don’t necessarily have to have grown up with YouTube and social media like she did, but they do have to “commit to being addicted to watching” content, she said.
Not everyone who works for YouTube creators gets paid.
Screenwriter Natalie Badillo isn’t earning a salary while she tries to build up an audience on YouTube. Badillo, who sold a self-titled project to HBO Max a few years ago, said she was looking for a way to “not wait 8 billion years for a TV show to get picked up,” and creating a YouTube channel, “Great Job Nat,” was a way to get her material out into the world.
“Why wait for somebody to throw you a party when you can just throw your own party?” she said.
Badillo draws on her connections with folks from the traditional film and TV world to produce the YouTube videos. While the channel is getting up and running, collaborators work for low pay or simply for the fun of it and to gain experience. Still, her ambitions are big. “I want to be the Jon Stewart of the West,” she said.
The pay disparities can be an issue for people from traditional media industries looking for jobs. While some programs featuring influencers and vertical excerpts of TV shows and movies are covered by union agreements, other projects don’t have those protections.
“With temporary hiring, it’s like everything else in Hollywood — you either need to have another job that balances things out or you need to get to a critical mass of enough work on enough different projects,” said Kevin Klowden, executive director at Milken Institute Finance. “The number of sustainable Hollywood jobs has shrunk.”
But as the two worlds collide, traditional media companies are already paying attention to the popularity of creator shows and are trying to find ways to partner with influencers. Amazon earlier this year announced more seasons of MrBeast’s reality competition series “Beast Games,” and digital media companies are adding people with traditional media backgrounds to their staffs.
“It’s still a lot more tiptoeing,” Hjelmeseth said. “Everybody’s kind of like looking at each other from across the room, like, ‘Should we dance?’”
An American visiting the UK decided to sample some good old fashioned fish and chips, but Brits spotted a “problem” when he tucked into the food at a popular seaside resort
06:58, 12 Jul 2025Updated 09:08, 12 Jul 2025
Brits spotted a “problem” with his order (stock image)(Image: SolStock / Getty Images)
When you visit a different country, it’s natural to explore and sample some of the traditional delicacies on offer and, here in the UK, one of the most beloved meals is fish and chips. Perhaps that’s why an American ventured to a popular seaside resort in Lancashire to sample the goods – after all, you can’t beat a chippy tea right by the sea.
A man, known as Kalani Ghost Hunter on TikTok, recently headed to Blackpool to sample one of his “favourite” British meals, and his video has since gone viral. He headed to Bentley’s Fish and Chips to carry out a taste test, as he said it was recommended by some of the locals, and he was keen to tuck in and see what was on offer.
He admitted that, when he has fish and chips, he has to have Dandelion and Burdock, as he said it’s “needed” to pair with the meal. Showing off the dish, he explained: “So, we’ve got our fish here, take a look at that – that is the large portion of fish and chips.
“Vinegar, salt – you guys know the combo. Now let’s dive in. I’ve been waiting for this meal for so many days. Mmm, so they’re frying in vegetable oil, and you guys know I’m a beef dripping lover but, what I will say is, there’s a very nice crunch on this.
“That’s a good batter flavour. Let’s try out a chip – I will say they have nice, chunky chips. That’s a solid piece of fish and chips. You guys know we love the curry sauce.
“I also love taking a chip through some mushy peas. I also love me some cheesy chips. Now they have melted the cheese on top here – let’s get us a nice bite. I love some cheesy chips.”
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Overall, he said the fish and chips were fried “nicely”, and he deemed the meal a “solid option”, awarding it an 8.6/10. According to the reviewer, the meal was “very good”, and he really enjoyed it.
However, in the comments, people were quick to chime in with all sorts of ideas. Some people spotted a “problem”, as they thought he was missing one key item on top of his chips.
One person wrote: “Cheese, chips and gravy.” Another added: “Have you tried cheesy chips and gravy?”
A third added: “Need to chuck some gravy on the chips and cheese.” Meanwhile, a fourth also commented: “You need to add gravy to your cheesy chips.”
Some people also thought Blackpool “wasn’t the best place” to sample fish and chips, but others said there were a few spots that serve up tasty offerings. One person thought the eatery he went to was lovely though, adding: “Good chippy that.”
Another also chimed in with: “Ignore the people in the comments hating on Blackpool. Yes, of course it’s not the gastronomic capital of England, but it’s fun and a great time, if you’re not pretentious.”
Blackpool is a seaside town in Lancashire, England. It’s situated on the Irish Sea coast of the Fylde peninsula, around 27 miles (43 km) north of Liverpool and 14 miles (23 km) west of Preston.
It’s the main settlement in the borough, which carries the same name. The town also homes the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, which is world-famous for its unique sprung dance floor and amazing architecture.
EastEnders viewers reacted to a scene that aired this week which saw characters Nugget Gulati and Avani Nandra-Hart approach their dad Ravi Gulati about a birthday party
23:35, 09 Jul 2025Updated 23:39, 09 Jul 2025
Fans of EastEnders have shared confusion over a scene that aired this week, suggesting that it included a blunder. It featured some of the Panesar family and comes ahead of a special occasion set to take place this month.
The scene in tonight’s episode of the BBC show saw Ravi Gulati (played by Aaron Thiara) approached about organising a ‘sweet sixteen’ party for his daughter Avani Nandra-Hart (Aaliyah James). She’s set to celebrate her 16th birthday later this month with some of her friends on Albert Square.
EastEnders viewers have questioned character Davinder ‘Nugget’ Gulati (played by Juhaim Rasul Choudhury, left) suggesting that he’s turning 18 soon, ahead of his sister Avani Nandra-Hart (Aaliyah James, right) turning 16.(Image: BBC/Eastenders)
She was joined by her older brother Davinder ‘Nugget’ Gulati (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) whilst asking their father about planning a party. Nugget suggested in the scene that the siblings start inviting friends ahead of the event.
Encouraging Ravi to let them go ahead with their plans, Avani told him: “Dad, I’m only 16 once y’know?” Nugget then suggested that he will instead be turning 18 soon, saying: “And my 18th ain’t far away. I’ve got to celebrate that too.”
Following the episode’s early release on BBC iPlayer on Monday, some fans on X have raised questions about the ages referenced in the scene. It’s been suggested by viewers that Nugget is thought to be 16 at the moment.
It would mean that he turns 17 on his next birthday, with his 18th then not until next year. His pal Denzel Danes (Jaden Ladega), who is thought to be in the same school year, is himself turning 17 “soon”, as mentioned just last month.
One viewer wrote: “So confused about the age gap between Nugget & Avani? He’s meant to be born in Sept 2008 & her in July 2009 (making them Irish twins, born 10 months apart). But he reckons he’s 18 soon & yet is in the same class as Denzel who said he was 17 soon (October)? Help!”
They added in a second post: “Also why are they in uniform if they’ve both just finished their GCSE exams last month? They’d be off school for the summer by now. Sort out your continuity fails #EastEnders, pedants are watching!”
The post prompted reaction following the release of the episode earlier this week. Some other viewers shared their thoughts in replies.
Someone responded: “I think they’ve given up on continuity with the ages of these 2.” Another said: “Apparently Nugget is 16 and is going to be 17 in September but he’s saying that he’s turning 18 so I’m confused about that too.”
One person wrote on the platform this week: “He would be 17 in September 18 next year, my son was born Jan 09 and he is now 16 1/2. I hate when tv programs and films don’t follow through with continuity, it’s just messy and lazy!”
Others suggested that it wouldn’t be the first time that a character’s age has been altered. One fan said: “It’s just tradition. Sharon was 13 in 1985 and 17 in 1986.” Whilst another wrote: “They also upped Ian’s age too I believe.”
EastEnders continues tomorrow from 7pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The next episode is already available through the streaming platform.
At least 77% of UK travellers said at least sometimes revisit the same place they’ve been before. And seven in 10 of those who have ever gone back to a familiar location have also chosen to book the exact same accommodation at some point
09:00, 08 Jul 2025Updated 16:01, 08 Jul 2025
Four in 10 staycationers return to the same destination because they want to ‘play it safe’. (Image: SWNS)
A recent survey of 1,200 UK holidaymakers revealed that a whopping 77% tend to return to familiar destinations at least occasionally. Moreover, seven out of 10 (71%) of those who have revisited a place have even booked the same accommodation again.
The main reasons for this trend include the desire to experience a beautiful location once more (37%), relive joyful memories (31%), and enjoy the comfort of a second home (20%).
Nostalgia plays a big role in travel plans, with many intending to revisit specific beaches (48%), eateries (37%), or picturesque viewpoints (32%) this year.
The most favoured spots for a repeat visit are coastal areas (46%), rural retreats (37%), and camping sites (14%). Despite these preferences, over one-third (36%) believe that discovering new experiences is the highlight of a staycation.
Darren Whittington from The Camping and Caravanning Club, which conducted the study and developed a tool to help find your ideal staycation style along with a list of thrilling activities for your next holiday, commented: “We can be creatures of habit when it comes to our holidays, but there’s so much to see in the UK.
“Trying a new activity or taking up a hobby can elevate a holiday to one you’ll never forget. With UK holidays now making up 59% of all the trips we take, there’s a lot of opportunity to discover new places and things to do, creating memories that will last a lifetime along the way.
“And with the rising popularity of staycations, more and more people are realising how much the UK has to offer, whether you prioritise excitement or relaxation.”
More than eight in 10 (86%) agreed they enjoy trying new things when they go away. (Image: SWNS)
More than eight in 10 (86%) agreed they enjoy trying new things when they go away. And according to them, the best things about broadening their horizons include the opportunity to discover something new (62%), grow as a person (29%), and learn new skills (23%).
The research by OnePoll found new experiences also provide 47% time to bond with their family and 15% relish the chance to pick up a new hobby.
Respondents were excited to embark on adventures such as going on a cross-country road trip (24%), discovering a hidden gem (41%), and visiting sets from their favourite films or TV shows (23%). With activities they’re keen to try ranging from wild swimming (14%) and paddleboarding (13%) to mountain climbing and biking (12%).
Specific regions holidaymakers are most interested to explore are the Scottish Highlands (36%), Cornwall (36%), and the Lake District (35%). Where they aspire to uncover a variety of fresh attractions, including coastlines for leisurely walks (44%), heritage locations to expand their understanding (41%), and nature reserves to forge a deeper bond with the environment (26%).
Among those still hesitant about embracing novelty during their upcoming getaway, potential encouragements featured local pursuits they wished to experience (34%) and the opportunity to develop a new outlook on life (27%).
Darren continued: “There’s such a range of things out there to try – and it’s fantastic to see so many are already open to adventure. But for the one in 10 people who don’t enjoy trying new things while on holiday, we believe that the campsite is the perfect base to launch yourself into the incredible outdoors, try something new, and make this your summer of why not.
“Whether you’re drawn to the seaside, the mountains, the woods, or anything in between – there’s something out there for you to discover. It’s about time we break out of our routines and experience the full array of beautiful places and opportunities the UK has to offer.”
It was another day of drama in the Love Island villa tonight as the Islanders got to know new bombshells Billykiss and Ryan after their shock arrival during last night’s episode
Love Island fans baffled as they spot Harrison’s bizarre sleeping habit(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
It seemed to be the end of the road for Harrison and Toni during tonight’s Love Island – but fans were more focused on the 22-year-old’s bizarre sleeping habit.
Toni was celebrating her 25th birthday – but it probably wasn’t the best celebration she’s ever had, as she learnt Harrison and Helena had shared another kiss the night before. Despite the arguments, Harrison tried to rekindle things with Toni by making a birthday breakfast, but she wasn’t having any of it, as she took him to the terrace to end things.
“You made your bed, lie in it,” Toni said, as she told Harrison to go off and be with Helena. Ironically, fans happened to notice Harrison’s ‘bizarre’ sleeping pattern in tonight’s episode, as they couldn’t help but realise he slept sitting up.
Fans couldn’t help but notice Harrison’s sleeping habit in tonight’s episode(Image: ITV)
“Harrison defo got a sore back tomorrow sleeping sitting up,” said one, while another said: “has anyone else noticed how Harrison always sleeps like sitting up LOL.”
As for now, Toni and Harrison are still coupled up so they’ll be sharing a bed in the meantime. However, if things continue the way they are, Harrison and Helena may be sharing a bed together in the near future.
Elsewhere, Billykiss and Ryan enjoyed their first day in the villa. Billykiss decided to take Conor and Dejon for a date, whereas Ryan invited Shakira and Toni out. During tonight’s episode, the rest of the Islanders got to know the new bombshells – but it seems they only had eyes for certain people.
Toni and Harrison called it quits in tonight’s episode(Image: ITV)
Following their date, Billykiss and Conor continued the vibes back at the villa. Billykiss’ arrival came at the perfect time for Conor, after his partner Megan was dumped from the villa following last week’s public vote. Despite Conor being all for Billykiss, the bombshell’s eyes are elsewhere…
Later on in the episode, she was seen pulling Dejon for a chat. Despite Dejon saying he had a great connection with Meg, she wasn’t too convinced and expressed her worries that her partner’s head could finally be turned.
Billykiss and Dejon’s chat took an awkward turn in front of Meg tonight, when Tommy remarked the two were getting on like a house on fire. It seemed Dejon couldn’t hide his attraction towards the new bombshell, as she pointed out that he kept staring at her.
Could Billykiss be the one to turn Dejon’s head?
Love Island continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.
Along with two major champions, a former world number one and several Ryder Cup heroes, a popular YouTuber will be among the players looking to secure a spot at the 153rd Open in Tuesday’s final qualifying events.
Influencer Peter Finch, who has a huge social media following, will be one of the most intriguing storylines at Dundonald Links.
The 38-year-old is one of 288 players featuring in events in Scotland, Burnham & Berrow, Royal Cinque Ports and West Lancashire, aiming to earn one of the 20 spots still available for the final men’s major of the year at Royal Portrush from 17-20 July.
“I’m feeling a little bit nervous but also quite excited in some respects,” said Finch, who is known for his course vlogs, golfing challenges and match-ups with professionals on his social channels.
“Dundonald is a course I know well and I really love it in this part of the world. I’m playing with two European Tour pros, so you are going see something good,” he added.
Described as content creator, golfer and dream chaser on the official Open X account,, external the man from Lancashire is well aware that he is a rank outsider to advance ahead of players who have all won on the DP World Tour.
Finch has never played at that level and likely never will.
And the scale of his task is underlined by the fact that he tees off in the 36-hole event at 07:50 BST at the same time as Lee Westwood.
Now 52, Westwood deposed Tiger Woods at the top of the world rankings in 2010 and has half a dozen second- and third-placed finishes in golf’s four major championships.
The Englishman, who last played at the Open in 2022, was a shot away from a place in a play-off in 2009 and finished in a tie for fourth at Portrush in 2019.
LIV golfer, Adrian Meronk a four-time winner on the DWP Tour before his defection to the Saudi-backed series will also be a serious contender to claim one of the five places on offer at the links course in Ayrshire.
While Johannes Veerman and Angel Hidalgo, have also triumphed on main professional tour in Europe, while Welshman Jamie Donaldson appeared for the continent in the 2014 Ryder Cup.
Scotland’s Marc Warren, who has played the Open five times, most recently at Royal Liverpool in 2023 is in Finch’s group along with Jack Senior.
Rebecca Kitchener, 38, goes on holiday to Marmaris every year – but reckons this year could see “the end” of the popular British tourist spot after new restrictions
Police patrolling the streets in Marmaris, Turkey(Image: Rebecca Kitchener/SWNS)
A British holidaymaker has claimed that new curfew regulations in Turkey, including early closing times for bars and a ban on late music, will “ruin” the area as over 25 venues have been forced to shut. Frequent visitor Rebecca Kitchener, 38, fears this year could spell “the end” for Marmaris, a favourite destination for Brits.
Historically, Brit tourists have been drawn to the region for its bustling late-night scene and exuberant nightlife. However, this year’s enforcement of fresh restrictions, such as no music after midnight and premises shutting by 12.30am, could signal disaster, according to Rebecca.
Further rules prohibit tabletop dancing and the use of sparklers. It’s believed these measures aim to curb harassment and unruly behaviour, whilst also showing more consideration for local residents.
But Rebecca, known as @rebeccaeliza86 on TikTok, visited Armutalan earlier this month for a two-week break with her kids and friends and noted the negative impact of the newly imposed limits, saying “it’s had it”.
The medical secretary from the Valleys, South Wales, said: “I think it’s really sad, I love all of that. When I went in June, we still had a good two weeks but the rules did put a dampener on it.
“The sparklers, the bar dancing – that’s Marmaris. You couldn’t be out in a bar much later than 12am in the UK, but you expect different when you’re on holiday.
“One minute you’re having an amazing time, then 12am hits and it’s boom, music off, lights out, your night is over.”
Rebecca is an annual visitor(Image: Rebecca Kitchener/SWNS)
Marmaris features just one street, Bar Street, that can stay open until 4am, while other venues must shut by 12.30am, a curfew strictly enforced by local authorities.
Rebecca, who holds Armutalan close to her heart, has found that the area has been severely affected by these restrictions. Marmaris TV, a Turkish news outlet, has reported that due to rule infringements, as many as 25 venues across Marmaris have faced temporary or permanent closure.
The report, translated, said: “Sanctions continue to be applied against rule violations starting from three days [enforced closure] and repeatedly leading up to license cancellation.”
Rebecca said: “When I went, at 12am you hear this siren thing and the police were driving along warning people. They were handing out fines.”
Though she’s inclined to visit again, Rebecca observed that it’s “completely different” now.
She said things had changed(Image: Rebecca Kitchener/SWNS)
She continued: “It’s dead compared to what it was. You used to have to book a seat to get to sit down in a bar – now they’re empty.
“People go for the atmosphere and the good vibe – everyone sings and dances and makes friends. It’s ruined Marmaris for the young people and I think the area will lose a lot of money.”
Turkiye Today confirmed that Marmaris District Governor’s Office has said there will be ongoing inspections throughout the summer to guarantee compliance with legal and moral standards by all businesses.
LOVE Island’s Helena Ford completely blanked Harry Cooksley and Shakira Khan in tonight’s dramatic recoupling.
In a very awkward moment from the latest installment, the cabin crew member, 29, crossed her arms and inched away from the pair after they cemented their couple status.
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Love Island’s Helena Ford completely blanked Harry Cooksley and Shakira Khan in tonight’s dramatic recouplingCredit: Love Island, ITV2
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The cabin crew member crossed her arms and inched away from the pairCredit: Love Island, ITV2
Shakira, 22, gushed over the footballer as she said: “He boils my blood. He’s hilarious, witty, charming and funny. And he’s not bad looking.
“So the boy I would like to couple up with is… Harry.”
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, fans went wild after spotting the move.
One joked, “Not Helena moving away from harry,” with a laughing emoji, while someone else said: “Helena moving away from Harry is just so…. #LoveIsland.”
A third chimed in with: “Shakira picked harry wow the face on helena.”
While a fourth pointed out: “how’s helena upset that harry’s moved on when she said they’re done?”
Harry, 30, was previously seen sobbing as he appeared to backtrack on his behaviour towards Helena.
The ITV2 star caused shockwaves in the villa last week when he split with his day one partner – before he attempted to pursue a third different romantic connection in the compound just hours later.
Love Island’s Harry reveals surprising encounter with A-list actress, boasting ‘I think I had a chance’
In scenes aired on last night’s Aftersun, Harry appeared to have huge regret on calling time on his connection with Helena.
A video shows him in tears as he sat with Dejon, who said if he could have it his way he would see the pair together.
Semi pro footballer Harry, with tears in his eyes, replied: “Yeah. Like, we just have nothing. Do you know what I mean?”
He then paused to dab his face and added: “Where it’s just like, we were good and then it’s just like she can’t even be around me.
“Geez. It’s just weird man.
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Shakira gushed over the footballer as she chose himCredit: Love Island, ITV2
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Taking to X, formerly Twitter, fans went wild after spotting the moveCredit: Love Island, ITV2
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Helena looked furiousCredit: Love Island, ITV2
“Like it’ll never be the same now after the way I’ve acted, do you know what I mean?”
The official Love Island account on X posted the caption: “The consequences of Harry’s antics hit home.”
Yet many thought he was having a taste of his own medicine following his lothario conduct.
One fan was quick to write: “Crying as if all of this wasn’t his own doing. Men lack accountability fr.”
A second posted: “If it isn’t the consequences of your own actions….”
A third noted: “He’s realised he’s exhausted all his options that man does not want to be with Helena,” while one agreed and put: “And tomorrow he’ll want Emily we can’t predict his next move.”
One then mused: “Some self reflection is always good.”
SNEAKY SNOG
The final nail in the coffin for Helena and Harry came after his kiss with Yasmin.
German giants Bayern Munich beat Argentina’s Boca Juniors 2-1 to seal progress at FIFA Club World Cup.
Michael Olise’s 84th-minute goal was enough to give Bayern Munich a 2-1 win over Boca Juniors in Miami Gardens, as the reigning German champions clinched a spot in the knockout phase of the Club World Cup.
After a scramble in the penalty area, Harry Kane sent the ball back to Olise, who blasted a shot into the bottom left corner of the net.
Boca had levelled Friday’s match in the 66th minute on a goal from Miguel Merentiel after Kane gave Bayern a first-half lead.
Bayern (2-0-0, 6 points) faced a much stiffer test than in their Group C opener, a 10-0 rout of semi-pro Auckland City (0-2-0, 0 points).
Boca Juniors (0-1-1, 1 point) still have a chance to advance, but they would need to rout Auckland City on Tuesday in Nashville and have Benfica (1-0-1, 4 points) lose to Bayern the same day in Charlotte.
Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise celebrates scoring their second goal [Hannah Mckay/Reuters]
For Boca’s tying goal, Alan Velasco delivered a pass from midfield into space for Merentiel to chase.
Merentiel beat Bayern defender Jonathan Tah to the ball, then rounded defender Josip Stanisic before firing a 12-yard, right-footed shot over the head of goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and into the net.
Bayern also produced an impressive goal. Konrad Laimer fired an entry pass to the centre of the Boca penalty area.
Kingsley Coman knocked the ball back to Kane, who took a heavy touch but still reached the ball in time to fire in a 12-yard shot with his left foot.
Boca Juniors’ Miguel Merentiel scores their first goal [Marco Bello/Reuters]
Members of a British Airways cabin crew team found themselves in a mortifying situation after being accidentally being checked into a sex hotel, complete with an anatomically detailed tub
A recent blunder led to blushes among one British Airways team
Crew members aboard a British Airways flight endured a seriously awkward night, after a booking blunder saw them being checked into a sex dungeon.
While in the stylish Italian city of Milan, it had been decided that the colleagues would spend the night at the Motel Mo.om, a popular modern hotel with good transport links.
Unfortunately, in what has been described as a “comical mistake”, the team reportedly found themselves bedding down for the night at the similarly named Mo. om Hotel. Although at a glance, the names of these hotels appear almost indistinguishable, this is where any comparisons end.
It soon became clear to the crew that this was no ordinary establishment, as they took in the bondage-themed beds and vagina-shaped spa tub. And if these features didn’t drive the point home, the incessant “moaning and groaning” from fellow patrons certainly did.
Noises from excitable fellow guests interrupted their much-needed shuteye
A source told The Sun: “Crew were booked into a pay-by-the-hour sex hotel last Thursday. They were confronted with bondage sets, mirrored ceilings, human dog cages and leather harnesses. It was obvious that this wasn’t the place the crew was supposed to stay.”
Although there are humorous elements to the mishap, this sleeping situation was decidedly less than ideal for airline staff, for whom adequate rest is imperative.
As the source explained: “It was a comical mistake by the hotel booking team, but had serious implications. Some of the team who stayed in the sex dungeon didn’t get any sleep, so they couldn’t operate on BA services the following day. They were kept awake by thrill seekers moaning and groaning all day and night.”
Crew members were allegedly left horrified by ‘suspicious fluids in their rooms which made their skin crawl’
As well as struggling through “constant noise” as a “24 hour orgy” raged on, employees allegedly also had to deal with witnessing “suspicious fluids in their rooms which made their skin crawl”.
A British Airways spokesperson told the Mirror: “A small number of crew were moved to unapproved hotel rooms following availability issues with our usual accommodation provider. This happened without our knowledge, and we’re urgently investigating to prevent it from taking place again.”
12 crew members were affected, with British Airways said to be now ‘urgently investigating’
It’s understood that 12 crew members spent one evening in the unapproved accommodation, due to availability issues with the airline’s usual provider.
There was also thankfully no delay to the flight that the staff members had been scheduled to operate, meaning they were able to get back to normal after their unexpected stay.
A new report has named one Canary Island destination the most tourist-dense island in all of Europe, and singled out one EU country in particular for overcrowding
Most year-round visitors to Malta are from Britain(Image: Getty Images)
As housing shortage protests grow in intensity across Europe, one EU country is still taking on the brunt of overcrowding. A new report reveals that Spain is home to Europe’s most overcrowded islands.
Using data from the European Commission, the report from BookRetreats.com ranked Europe’s islands by tourist density – measured in overnight stays per square kilometre. The spatial metric reveals how physically saturated some destinations have become, especially on islands where land, housing, and infrastructure are limited, according to the analysts.
Malta topped the list with the highest tourist density of any island in Europe. Equally significant, the report revealed that four of the top five most tourist-dense islands on the continent are Spanish islands.
Across these islands, tourism levels have reached the densities of most major cities. According to the report, while Malta is small enough to fit into London five times over, it sees more than 38,700 overnight stays per km². Of these year-round visitors, British travellers make up the largest share.
Spanish locals are protesting soaring housing prices and housing shortages exacerbated by overtourism(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
The tourist impact is most visible at peak sites like the Blue Lagoon on Comino, where daily summer crowds reach up to 12,000. In response, authorities have recently capped visitor numbers at 4,000 per day and introduced mandatory booking to help protect the fragile coastal environment.
Protests are also growing across the country and governments are now considering enhanced restrictions to manage the pressure on infrastructure. In Ibiza and Formentera, officials have responded with new Tourism Containment Measures. The reforms ban new short-term lets in apartment buildings and step up enforcement against unlicensed holiday rentals in a bid to ease the strain.
The Menys Turisme Més Vida organised a protest in Palma on June 15, 2025(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
On Sunday, June 15, the Menys Turisme Més Vida platform also organised a protest in Palma calling for an end to touristification. The group issued a statement the next day, insisting: “Let us be clear. We will not stop. This fight does not end here.
“We will not allow one more measure of tourism growth, nor one more attack on our language and culture, on migrants, on the territory, or on the working class.”
Elsewhere in Spain, governments have pushed back even further on holiday lets, including a crackdown on 65,000 Airbnb listings. In the Canaries, a new holiday rental law could also ban newly built properties from being used by tourists for 10 years after construction.
“Tourism has transformed many of Europe’s islands, but the pace and scale are no longer sustainable,” says Sean Kelly, co-founder of BookRetreats.com.
“When local systems are stretched and communities are pushed out, it’s a sign something needs to change. That’s why it’s so important we look at the data, understand where the pressure is highest, and start making more informed choices about where and how we travel.”
Conor made a very telling comment that some Love Island fans have taken as a sign he doesn’t like Toni despite her praising him for his behaviour on the bombshell date
21:56, 15 Jun 2025Updated 21:56, 15 Jun 2025
Love Island fans think it could be the end of Toni and Conor(Image: ITV)
Love Island viewers have picked up on a very telling move from Conor as to how he is really feeling about Toni. After the boys returned from meeting the bombshells, Toni took Conor for a chat where she praised him for being respectful.
He had a date with bombshell Emily but didn’t realise all the girls in the villa were watching their every move. Toni was pleasantly surprised with how Conor acted on the date despite them being coupled up.
She thanked him for how he spoke about her to Emily but did pull him up on his body language. Toni wasn’t pleased how he placed his arm on one of the three bombshells as they arrived to the boys drinks.
Toni praised Conor for how he acted on the date with Emily(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
As they went to bed, it seemed everything was settled between the pair. However, in the morning fans noticed a very shady remark from Conor.
He made two cups of coffees in the kitchen, yet instead of giving it to Toni he walked over to Emily instead. Conor even quipped: “I don’t want to give it to Toni.”
After the very telling move, fans have predicted the end for Toni and Conor. One said: “Erm Conor wtf was that.” Another added: “Conor not making Toni a coffee and she singing his praises last night???? TF.”
Someone else commented: “Did conor fall off the bed in his sleep whats going on.” A fourth wrote: “Did Conor just say he doesn’t wna make Toni a coffee.”
“Excuse me? Why doesn’t Conor wanna make one for Toni? After she was so nice? Wtf,” asked a viewer. Another predicted: “I don’t think Conor likes Toni.”
Conor gave Emily a coffee in the morning instead of Toni(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
The three bombshells include 24-year-old teaching assistant Malisha from Broxbourne, Commercial Banking Executive Yasmin, 24, and Insurance Development Executive Emily, 24, from Aberdeen.
The boys left the villa earlier in the day for drinks, but what they didn’t know was that the girls would be watching their every move on a giant TV back in the main villa. Shortly after they all established where they stood in their relationship, three new bombshells entered and caused a stir for the girls watching.
They then headed off on one-on-one dates with three of the boys as the original girls watched on. Tensions rose once again when they boys and the bombshells returned to the villa where they discovered they had been watched the whole time.
The boys weren’t happy, to say the least, about the girls being a fly on the wall during their chats, as Dejon fumed: “Boys chat stays in the boys chat!” However, it was all too late as the damage had already been done.
London Pulse secured top spot at the end of the Netball Super League regular season – and with it home advantage for the major semi-final in the play-offs.
Pulse led Loughborough Lightning by two points going into the final round of games and were given a helping hand.
It came from Birmingham Panthers who caused a surprise in their coach Jo Trip’s final game in charge by achieving a 67-58 success over Lightning, who have won three of the past four Grand Finals, to ensure Pulse finished top.
Antonia Mitchell had 42 goals for Panthers who pulled clear in the second quarter against a Lightning side who lacked fluency and will have plenty to think about before the play-offs.
Pulse then ensured they go into next weekend’s game against Lightning on a high with a comfortable 67-44 victory over bottom side Cardiff Dragons, helped by 36 goals from Olivia Tchine.
The winner of the major semi-final goes straight to the Grand Final while the loser will face the winner of the minor semi-final between third and fourth – Manchester Thunder and London Mavericks – to determine the other finalist.
Thunder and Mavericks lined up for a dress rehearsal on Saturday with the Manchester side winning 67-45 at Wembley Arena, led by 50 goals from Elmere van der Berg.
In the weekend’s final game on Sunday, the sport will say farewell to one of its greatest players.
Former England star Geva Mentor takes to the court for the last time before she retires as she lines up for Leeds Rhinos against Nottingham Forest (16:00 BST) in a match you can watch live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website.
