Iron Maiden rocker Bruce Dickinson has revealed the surprising reason behind his decision to take up fencingCredit: GettyBruce has told how he used the sport to help him fend off sex-hungry groupiesThe rocker spent months training with Team GB and represented a semi-pro club – and was once an outside contender for the OlympicsCredit: Getty – Contributor
Run to the Hills singer Bruce — worth about £100million – was at one point ranked No7 in the UK and an outside contender for the Olympics.
He tried fencing as a teenager and then took it up as a hobby in 1983 to distract himself from the temptations of sex, booze and drugs after finding fame.
He spent months training with Team GB and represented a semi-pro club.
Asked why he picked up the blade, he told Classic Rock mag: “I was busy sh*****g everything that moved and none of it was healthy.
“I remember something that (The Who guitarist) Pete Townshend once said about groupies — ‘The moment you realise you can click your finger and manipulate people into having sex with you, that’s the moment you’re going down the slippery slope’.
“You can’t believe women are throwing themselves at you. You think, ‘Well this is nice’. And it is. It’s f*****g great. But there’s a dark side to this.
“Where do you stop? When does it become a prop, like alcohol or cocaine?
“So that’s when I started doing extracurricular activities like fencing.
“I was thinking, ‘I’ve got to do something to keep my brain clean’.”
Bruce, also a qualified pilot who flies Iron Maiden’s private 747 on tour, still takes part in fencing competitions for his age group.
The band has sold more than 130million albums since forming in London in 1975.
ROCK legend Jon Bon Jovi is the next big name star to join CBeebies Bedtime Story slot.
And he uses his stint to share a loving message about his new granddaughter.
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Jon Bon Jovi is the next big name star to join CBeebies Bedtime Story slotCredit: BBC/Guy LevyThe rock legend uses his stint to share a loving message about his new granddaughterCredit: BBC/Guy Levy
The Bon Jovi singer said: “Some of my favourite things in life are music and being a grandad – or as I like to say,‘papa’ – and going on adventures.
“When my grandchildren are a little older, I can’t wait to take them on amazing adventures.
“Music has played a part in all of my kids’ childhoods and I’m looking forward to watching my children become parents and seeing our grandchildren become part of our lives.
“It’s not about what I’m going to teach my grandchildren, but what they’re going to teach me!”
The TV storytelling gig has welcomed everyone from Harry Styles to Idris Elba to the bedtime armchair.
Jon has chosen to read his friend Paul McCartney’s book Hey Grandude! tomorrow night (Friday 7 November) at 6.50pm on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer.
He added: “I picked Hey Grandude! because it’s written by the great Paul McCartney, singer, songwriter, storyteller.
“He’s someone I’ve always admired and looked up to, not just for his music but for his parenting and grandparenting skills. He’s a dear friend and someone we all admire.”
Jon will also feature in an episode of the CBeebies Parenting Helpline podcast, out November 27 on the CBeebies Parenting website and BBC Sounds.
He will pose a question about when (and when not) to give parenting advice to your own children.
Love Actually star Thomas Brodie-Sangster has signed up for Google Pixel’s new festive adCredit: AlamyMartine McCutcheon will star alongside Thomas 22 years after they appeared together in Love ActuallyCredit: Alamy
They filmed the top-secret project in London yesterday afternoon — 22 years after appearing opposite each other in the 2003 hit film.
A source said: “Nothing says Christmas like Love Actually, and so Google Pixel are bringing a sprinkling of it back to insert some nostalgia into the festive period.
“It’s still such a firm favourite with millions of people, so they tapped up Martine and Thomas for the sweet reunion.
“The ad is going to be packed full of throwbacks — especially because Thomas was only 13 when he was in Love Actually.
“A whole street in London was transformed into a winter wonderland and Martine and Thomas were in great spirits.
“They’re really happy with how the ad worked out. It’s going to be one people are talking about for a while.”
If you’ve lived under a rock and have never seen Love Actually, it’s one of Richard Curtis’s best films.
Martine plays hapless PA Natalie, swept off her feet by the Prime Minister, played by Hugh Grant.
And Thomas took on the role of sweet, love-stricken Sam, who went all out to impress his teen crush.
Google Pixel isn’t the only brand getting in on the Love Actually nostalgia for their Christmas ad.
Aldi revealed their famous Kevin the Carrot will propose to his sweetheart Katie in their festive offering this year using cue cards — inspired by the scene in the film where Andrew Lincoln’s character Mark professed his love for Juliet, played by Keira Knightley.
Without wanting to be too sentimental, it proves love really is still all around us.
And I’m definitely going to be renting it on Prime Video tonight.
KYLIE MINOGUE used a stocking from the filming of her CBeebies bedtime story last Christmas in the music video for her new festive single Xmas.
The Aussie pop star is celebrating the tenth anniversary of her Christmas album with a new version of the record, Kylie Christmas (Fully Wrapped), which features four new songs.
Kylie is celebrating the tenth anniversary of her Christmas album with a new version of the recordCredit: Alamy
Speaking to Scott Mills on the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show about the video, Kylie said: “Because I was on the road we didn’t get to go so Christmassy.
“I think it was from a CBeebies Christmas story | did and they gave me a Christmas stocking.
“I thought, I have got to take something Christmassy and I think that’s it. That’s the one thing that you may see.
“We didn’t get to do fairy lights. We didn’t get to do paper chains. But in spirit we were very Christmassy.”
JOSH’S TOP DAY WITH SPINAL TAP
JOSH GROBAN was one of a few artists asked to perform with Spinal Tap for their next film, Stonehenge: The Final Finale.
I exclusively revealed the parody band had shot a concert alongside Eric Clapton and Shania Twain at the landmark in August, and now US star Josh has told me all about taking part.
Josh Groban was one of a few artists asked to perform with Spinal Tap for their next film, Stonehenge: The Final FinaleCredit: Getty
He said: “Singing with Spinal Tap at Stonehenge – I don’t care how much you’ve done, that’s an experience for anybody. Eric Clapton felt it, Shania Twain felt it.
“Everybody was going, ‘I can’t believe we’re doing this’. I can’t tell you the song but it was ridiculous and amazing.”
Josh is returning to the UK on April 1 next year for a date at London’s O2 Arena, with tickets on sale tomorrow.
And on November 14 he will drop his next record, Hidden Gems.
The album is a collection of fans’ favourite tracks not available on streaming platforms.
Speaking after an intimate show in London at Union Chapel, Josh says: “These are all songs from my past.
“They’re B-sides and special-editions. I’ve also been working on new music.”
MUMMY’S THE WORD, BRENDAN
BRENDAN FRASER and Rachel Weiz are teaming up again for The Mummy 4, 17 years after the last film in the franchise.
They both starred in 1999’s The Mummy and 2001’s The Mummy Returns, below, but Rachel skipped 2008’s The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor.
Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weiz are teaming up again for The Mummy 4,Credit: Getty
Plans for a fourth film were ditched in 2012 before Tom Cruise tried to reboot the series in 2017 with another movie called The Mummy, but it lost millions at the box office.
The original followed treasure hunter Rick (Brendan), who wakes up an ancient Egyptian priest with special powers.
The latest news comes three years after Brendan’s career comeback in The Whale, which landed him a much-deserved Oscar for Best Actor.
YUNG HIT IN TRANS PIC SHOW
YUNGBLUD has provided the soundtrack for a new photography exhibition that tells the stories of 13 trans people from across the UK.
His song Hello Heaven, Hello will be used on screens at Outernet, right outside Tottenham Court Road Tube Station in central London, for the free exhibition called Trans Is Human from November 17.
Yungblud has provided the soundtrack for a trans photography exhibitionCredit: Getty
Yungblud said: “I’m honoured that Hello Heaven, Hello will be a part of this exhibition.
“Trans Is Human is all about celebrating truth, identity and the beauty of being yourself.
“That’s something I’ve always tried to celebrate in everything I do.”
BABYSHAMBLES have returned with their first song in 12 years, Dandy Hooligan.
The band, fronted by Pete Doherty, dropped the track yesterday ahead of the launch of their comeback tour.
Pete Doherty’s Babyshambles have dropped their first song in 12 yearsCredit: Getty
Pete said: “It’s a well turned-out, elegantly crafted reggae-ska-pop song . . . with a sweet melody to bowl along to with your sharpened walking cane.”
They were back on stage in Hastings last night for a warm-up gig ahead of their tour later this month.
ED’S PERFECT PITCH MEANS ALL KIDS CAN LEARN MUSIC
ED SHEERAN has once again proved he is a voice for good after a successful campaign to give all kids access to creative subjects at school.
Back in March, the Shape Of You singer wrote to No10 urging the government to look at the critical state of music education – and, incredibly, they’ve listened.
Ed Sheeran wrote to Keir Starmer about the critical state of music educationCredit: Splash
Keir Starmer yesterday heralded Ed’s letter, which was backed by stars including Harry Styles, Stormzy and Annie Lennox, as “powerful”, and told him: “I wanted you to know that your voice has been heard.”
In a letter to Ed which has been shared with me, the PM said: “The review places creative subjects firmly at the centre.
“We are revitalising arts education, strengthening music and drama, and launching a new National Centre for Arts And Music Education to support teachers and raise standards.
“We will make sure every child has access to those experiences – from arts and culture to nature and civic engagement – so that creativity isn’t a privilege, but a right.”
It is a huge victory for Ed and the Ed Sheeran Foundation, which has campaigned for accessible, meaningful education for all young people.
In a statement, Ed said: “I set up the Ed Sheeran Foundation because every child deserves to have access to a meaningful music education, and the chance to experience the joy and confidence that musical expression can bring.
“Shortly after setting up my foundation, I wrote an open letter to the Prime Minister about the critical state of music education in the UK and the fact it was slipping through the cracks.
“With the help of the letter and everyone who signed it, I’m happy to say that some of the key points we raised have been recognised by the government, marking the first change to the music curriculum in over ten years.”
All power to you, Ed. This is brilliant news.
COAT AND TAYLS
TAYLOR SWIFT has gone quiet since dropping her album The Life Of A Showgirl last month, but she re-emerged in New York for a night out with Gigi Hadid on Monday.
The singer wrapped up in a coat and knee-high boots alongside the model who is a long-time friend.
Taylor Swift had a night out with Gigi Hadid in New York on MondayCredit: GettyGigi and Taylor Swift are long-time friendsCredit: Getty
I’m sure they had plenty to catch up on, with a wedding to plan for Taylor, while Gigi’s romance with Bradley Cooper seems to be going from strength to strength after two years together.
Perhaps wedding bells will be ringing for her, too, before long.
JENNIFER LAWRENCE has let slip that she’s co-producing a movie with Emma Stone based on Miss Piggy, being written by US comedian Cole Escola.
Asked on the Las Culturistas podcast whether the actresses will also star in the film, she said: “I think so, we have to.”
On working with Emma for the first time, she added: “It’s f***ed up. It’s dark that we haven’t done a movie together.”
CYNTHIA’S IN GOOD MOOD FOR PREMIERE
CYNTHIA ERIVO was grinning from ear to ear at the premiere of Wicked: For Good, despite the fact her co-star Ariana Grande missed the big launch.
The British actress, who returns as Elphaba in the second flick, wore this quirky, tummy-baring outfit and was joined at the event in Sao Paulo by co-star Jonathan Bailey ahead of the London premiere on Monday.
Cynthia Erivo was all smiles at the Wicked: For Good premiere in Sao Paulo, BrazilCredit: GettyCynthia posed with co-star Jonathan BaileyCredit: Getty
Hopefully, Ariana will make it over here after a fault with a plane meant she couldn’t get to Brazil in time for Tuesday’s event.
She apologised on Instagram, but was then subjected to vile abuse.
ACTRESS Sydney Sweeney scores a hat-trick in a selection of outfits in one day.
The 28-year-old was spotted switching up her style in New York City while promoting her boxing biopic Christy.
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Sydney Sweeney scores a hat-trick in a selection of outfits in one dayCredit: GettySydney was spotted switching up her style in New York CityCredit: SplashThe actress was promoting her boxing biopic ChristyCredit: Getty
As well as the three outfits pictured, Sydney changed into three more throughout the day for a total of six.
Actress Sydney described her latest role as “one of the most inspiring” experiences of her life.
Talking of the female boxer she said: “Christy’s strength isn’t in all of her punches it’s in her heart.”
Sydney became emotional as she detailed how Christy was shot and stabbed in the chest and left for dead after threatening to leave her abusive spouse.
“Christy reminds us strength doesn’t have to look loud sometimes, it’s just about getting up again and again no matter who is watching.
“Playing her taught me it isn’t the end of the story, it’s about re-claiming it.
“And to every young girl out there I hope that you know your power is already within you.”
In her latest film, Christy, she learned to box to play US pro fighter Christy Martin — the first female boxer to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
She won a world title before her husband tried to murder her.
Heidi Klum and daughter Leni posed together for the new Intimissimi campaignCredit: IntimissimiThe pair previously caused controversy for posing in lingerie togetherCredit: Intimissimi
The mother and daughter duo wore long sleeve pyjama tops and pants from the new range.
SIR David Beckham celebrated his knighthood with a champagne knees-up — and jam roly-poly.
Best pal Gordon Ramsay hosted the bash at his flagship restaurant in Chelsea, whipping-up a three course meal including a Michelin-star take on Becks’ favourite pud.
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Sir David Beckham celebrated his Knighthood with wife Victoria in LondonCredit: Darren FletcherThe bash was hosted by Gordon Ramsay at his flagship restaurant in ChelseaCredit: Darren FletcherHarper Beckham attended in a pink satin dressCredit: Darren Fletcher
Guests including his three youngest children Romeo, Cruz and Harper joined his parents, Ted and Sandra, and sister Joanne for beef Wellington — while wife Lady Victoria, who avoids red meat, had sea bass.
They then tucked into roly-poly and custard.
A friend said: “It was a super-lovely, very chilled sit-down dinner with David’s inner circle.
“Becks’ favourite Chateau Margaux — plus a lot of champagne — was flowing.
“Obviously everyone kept making a big deal of calling him ‘Sir David’ and that was the running gag of the night.”
After the Windsor Castle ceremony Sir David, 50, changed into a dapper black velvet tux while Lady Victoria, 51, opted for a slinky black floor length number from her own fashion range.
But there was still no sign of estranged eldest son Brooklyn.
Cruz Beckham was seen at the bash holding his bowtieCredit: Darren FletcherRomeo was all smiles for his dad’s big partyCredit: Darren Fletcher
HER sixth album Brat topped the charts and won her five Brit Awards, but Charli XCX feared her label was going to drop her over it because it is so out there.
In a new interview, she explained: “I think when I was making it, I wasn’t thinking about the response at all.
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Charli XCX feared her label was going to drop her over her Brat recordCredit: GettyCharli was speaking to Gwyneth Paltrow on her podcastCredit: Getty
“I actually made this record being like, ‘OK, I’m just going to do this one for me.
“And maybe I’m going to get dropped by my label and that’s fine’.
“That was kind of the headspace that I was in.
“There’s a lot of luck with timing and the way that culture is moving.
“I think when I released this record, it’s like people were wanting something that felt very real and messy.
“And I think that’s just the way that culture was swinging.”
Charli previously suggested she was going to have a lengthy break from music following the success of the record, released in June last year, but she has now teased that she’s working on “inherently different” tracks.
The Guess singer continued: “I’m really interested to see what comes next in pop culture, especially in the music space, what people are craving.
“I really like to work in contrast. I think whatever I do next will just inherently be different to Brat because that’s what feels natural.
“I’m exploring a lot of stuff with strings at the moment, which I’m really enjoying and I haven’t really worked in that space before.”
And with a series of movies on the way — including Faces Of Death and I Want Your Sex, Charli said she is committed to becoming an actress.
Speaking to Gwyneth Paltrow on her Goop podcast, she said: “I’ve been making music since I was 14.
“And don’t get me wrong, I love making music, but I think there was just a point where I was kind of like, OK, I really need to exercise my creativity in a different way.
“I don’t actually really listen to that much music ever. I never really have.
“But what I am doing is I’m always watching films.”
And Charli also reflected on the prospect of starting a family, having mused on her indecision about becoming a mother on her song I Think About It All The Time, which was on the Brat album.
The Brit, who wed The 1975 drummer George Daniel in July, said: “There is, I think, still a bit of stigma perhaps around women who don’t really want to have children, you know, and I think for me it’s like I’m always swinging between the two.
“Right now, I’m on the side of, like, actually I’m not sure that that is for me, but that could go back.”
BENSON BACK
Benson Boone performs at London’s O2 ArenaCredit: Getty
BENSON BOONE shook off illness and returned to the stage for a killer sold-out show at London’s O2 Arena.
The American singer had to cancel his gig in Birmingham on Saturday after struggling with his voice but he was on song on Monday when he sailed through tracks including Sorry I’m Here For Someone Else, Young American Heart and Mr Electric Blue along with a cover of Coldplay‘s Sparks.
Welcoming out his friend and photographer McLean Long to the stage armed with a T-shirt cannon, Benson said: “Every night I sing one song that is a cover song.
“I love this song very much, so we’re going to have a friend come out and help us figure out which song we’re singing.”
Another poignant moment in the evening came when Benson performed In The Stars, which he wrote as a tribute to his great-grandmother who died aged 96.
Benson said: “I think the loveliest thing about this song is this is a song about me, about my life.
“My experiences, somebody that I know, something I felt, something I went through, but when you listen to it it’s no longer about me, it’s about you.”
RITA’S A PINK LADY
THERE was no missing Rita Ora in this pink dress at the Music Industry Trusts Awards, but it was Jessie J who stole the show with an amazing rendition of Whitney Houston‘s I Have Nothing.
Speaking at the ceremony on Monday night, Jessie referenced her breast cancer diagnosis and said: “This is one of my favourite songs to sing. There is no hiding in this song. It’s very exposing.
Rita Ora dazzled in this pink dress at the Music Industry Trusts AwardsCredit: PAJessie J stole the show with an amazing rendition of Whitney Houston’s I Have NothingCredit: GettySinger Olly Murs also performedCredit: Getty
“This year has changed my whole world – my perspective, what battles I’m going to pick.
“You know, death comes knocking at your door and you kind of dance and f***ing kick it away.
“It just changes everything.
““I will say this, I don’t care how old you are or how long you have been doing this, enjoy your f***ing life.
“Be kind to each other.”
Ashley Tabor-King, founder of Global Media, whose radio stations include Heart and Capital, was honoured on the night, with video messages from Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift.
Rita flew in especially from Los Angeles to perform, and Olly Murs was there for a night out after becoming a dad for a second time.
“Albert is nine weeks old now,” Olly said.
“Another one next year? We are happy with two at the moment.
“Who knows, in a few years’ time we will see.
“I have got time next year to spend a bit more time with the family.
“It has been a busy few years.”
KATY HAS A POP AT BLOOM
Katy Perry is returning with a new singleCredit: Getty
KATY PERRY is returning with a new single tomorrow and it sounds as though it will hint heavily at her split from Orlando Bloom.
The Roar singer announced the track Bandaids last night, following a tricky year which saw her break-up with the English actor after almost a decade, and start dating ex-Canadian PM Justin Trudeau.
Insiders have claimed she worked on it with top writer and producer Cirkut, who worked on her No1s Part Of Me and Roar, as well as Greg Kurstin, who co-wrote Adele’s heartbreak singles Hello and Easy On Me.
Last night, Katy played the latest show on her Lifetimes tour in Paris, ahead of the end of the 91-show jaunt next month.
Liam Gallagher, pictured, and brother Noel got one over on touts in AustraliaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
OASIS have scored another victory over the vile ticket touts – this time in Australia.
Thanks to the Major Events law in Victoria, scalpers were shut out of their three sold-out shows there.
The rules in the Australian state means that anyone flogging tickets for more than ten per cent above face value at an event protected by the Major Events Act faces a fine of up to £270,000.
In a statement, Noel and Liam Gallagher‘s management team told me: “It’s great to see Victoria’s Major Events declaration doing exactly what it’s meant to – Viagogo can’t list our Melbourne shows – and that’s a huge win for real fans.
“When government and the live industry work together, we can stop large-scale scalping in its tracks.
“We’d love to see other states follow Victoria’s lead so fans everywhere get a fair go.”
The success of the law means that the 180,000 tickets sold for the shows in Victoria went to genuine fans for the right price.
The brothers will play two more shows in Australia this week, with back-to-back sold-out gigs in Sydney on Friday and Saturday, before they take their Oasis Live 25 tour to South America.
COLDPLAY OFF TO CHURCH
Chris Martin is playing a one-off intimate show for charityCredit: EPA
IF you missed out on Coldplay tickets earlier this summer then fear not.
The band’s Chris Martin and Jonny Buckland have announced a one-off, intimate show on Wednesday, December 3, in aid of War Child and Crisis.
But it will be even harder to get in than catching one of their ten nights at Wembley, as it will take place at Hackney Church in East London, with a public ballot for 150 pairs of tickets is now open online.
Last year Chris and Jonny’s Hackney Church performance raised £350,000 for charity.
I’m sure kind-hearted fans will dig deep again this year.
ED-ING WHERE IT BEGAN
Ed Sheeran performs his Billions Club Live setCredit: Supplied
ED SHEERAN headed back to Dublin for a special concert to celebrate his songs which had clocked up more than one billion streams.
And he had plenty to pick from, with the star performing hits including Thinking Out Loud, Castle On The Hill, I See Fire and Galway Girl.
The gig saw the 2,000 fans packed into Industries Hall at the Royal Society Dublin going wild – and I got to join them after my lovely friends at Spotify flew me out on Monday.
Speaking at his Billions Club Live set, Ed said: “The reason I wanted to do it in Dublin is this is the place where I decided I wanted to be a singer- songwriter when I was a kid.
“It’s a special place for me with my family but it’s also a special place for me musically.
“I feel like this is where it all began.”
Ed also used his time on stage to remind the crowd that he last headlined Glastonbury back in 2017, which makes me think he’s a sure-fire bet to return to Worthy Farm in 2027 to mark ten years.
ARIANA GRANDE was forced to miss the world premiere of Wicked: For Good in Brazil last night after a safety issue with her private jet.
She was on board her plane to fly to Sao Paulo yesterday but had to get off when a fault was found, leaving her “beyond devastated” because there was no other way to make the journey in time.
GLAMOUR model Katie Price has claimed she once kissed footie hunk Jack Grealish.
She also said the Premier League star — who is 17 years her junior — is one of the most famous celebrities she has smooched.
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Katie Price claimed she kissed Jack Grealish on a live show of her tour with singer Kerry KatonaCredit: Dan CharityMum-of-five Katie, 47, did not specify when she kissed the Prem starCredit: AFP
Mum-of-five Katie, 47, did not specify when they kissed after making the claim on a live show of her tour with singer Kerry Katona, 45.
An audience member told The Sun: “Katie and Kerry had Instagram messages from fans to be asked at the show.
“One asked who is the most famous person they have kissed.
“Katie said to Kerry, ‘Do you know who I have? Grealish’.
DOWNLOAD festival has landed a Hollywood A-lister to perform at the rock and metal event next summer.
The 2026 line-up was announced this evening and features the surprising actor, as well as three American bands topping the bill.
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Keanu Reeves will play Download festival next summer as bassist for band DogstarCredit: GettyGuns N’ Roses will also hit the stage on the SaturdayCredit: Getty
Download will return to Leicestershire’s Donington Park from June 10 to 14, with The Matrix and John Wick star Keanu Reeves set to play.
The band Dogstar, for which he plays bass, are among a series of acts which have been officially unveiled.
Linkin Park will close the festival on the Sunday night, marking their first performance at the festival since frontwoman Emily Armstrong was brought in.
They previously headlined four times between 2004 and 2014 with their original line-up.
And it comes after Linkin Park played a sold out concert at Wembley Stadium in June.
Tickets are already on sale for the 23rd annual festival, which will also feature performances from Pendulum, Trivium, The All-American Rejects, Mastodon and Bush.
Other acts on the line-up include Feeder, Ash, Tom Morello, The Pretty Reckless and Those Damn Crows.
Limp Bizkit’s booking comes just a fortnight after it was revealed that bassist and founding member Sam Rivers had died aged 48.
They paid tribute to him last month when they described him as not “just our bass player” but “the soul in the sound.”
The band said: “From the first note we ever played together, Sam brought a light and a rhythm that could never be replaced.
“His talent was effortless, his presence unforgettable, his heart enormous.”
The full rundown of artists was revealed at a launch event at the Barbican in central London, where guests were entertained by fortune tellers and a string quartet.
THE clocks have gone back and we are facing months of dark skies, morning and night.
But long-stay holidays are perfect for those able to escape for the dreariest months of the year.
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Beat the winter blues with a long-stay holiday and escape months of dark skiesCredit: Getty
Whether it is retirees or workers on a career break, heading off for a longer trip can often mean less money spent on energy at home as well as the chance to boost your vitamin D.
Lisa Minot picks some great multi-week options from just £25 a night.
21 NIGHTS IN FLORIDA
from £38pp per night
Orlando’s thrills with a 21-night stay at the 3* Grand Hotel Orlando at Universal BlvdCredit: Getty
ESCAPE the chills and head for Orlando’s thrills with a great-value 21-night stay at the 3* Grand Hotel Orlando at Universal Blvd.
Perfectly positioned for those seeking theme park adventures, there are complimentary shuttle services to Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World and SeaWorld and there is a golf course a 15-minute drive from the property.
With 334 rooms across four floors, there’s a spacious outdoor heated pool with loungers and fitness gym.
Breakfast is included and features pastries, pancakes, fresh fruit and yoghurt.
Three weeks’ B&B is from £789pp including flights from Gatwick on January 15. See loveholidays.com.
29 NIGHTS IN CYPRUS
from £65pp per night
This 29-night holiday in Cyprus, departing Manchester on December 15 or Gatwick on December 16, includes all your food and drinksCredit: Getty
SWAP grey skies for golden sands this Christmas and see in the New Year with a sun-kissed escape to the all-inclusive Paphos Gardens Holiday Resort.
Set amid beautiful, lush gardens and close to the beach, there’s plenty to tempt you to relax by the pool and in the spa.
And this 29-night holiday, departing Manchester on December 15 or Gatwick on December 16, includes all your food and drinks.
The extended break also comes with six excursions, such as a winery tour with tasting, and guided tours of Paphos, Episkopi, Kourion, Kolossi and Omodos. Prices from £1,899pp. See justgoholidays.com.
30 NIGHTS IN GOA
from £107pp per night
This all-inclusive stay at the 3* ocean-front Clarion Ocean Palms resort costs from £3,199pp and includes flightsCredit: Getty
SPLASH out a little more and you could be enjoying a month in the sunshine in North Goa.
With its mix of Portuguese and Indian influences, you’ll get to explore Calangute and the surrounding areas, with a choice of three excursions included on this holiday.
Enjoy a Latin quarter food trail, Old Goa heritage walk and trips to Saligao Village and Fort Aguada.
This all-inclusive stay at the 3* ocean-front Clarion Ocean Palms resort costs from £3,199pp and includes flights from Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester in November, February and March. Plus all transfers and excursions.
A three-week room-only stay in Bangkok’s Old Town district is yours from £879ppCredit: Getty
HEAD to the bright lights of Bangkok to enjoy sizzling temperatures and all the excitement of a big city.
Comfortable 3* The Orchid House is a great choice for couples looking for a budget stay, with colonial-style rooms complete with air conditioning.
Set in the historic Bangkok Old Town district, there’s a peaceful garden and terrace to return to after busy days exploring the sights, including the famous Khao San Road, just an eight-minute walk away.
Three weeks room-only is from £879pp, flying from Gatwick on November 26.
Prices are from £603pp with flights from Heathrow between November 14 and December 21Credit: Getty
ENJOY three weeks of pampering for the price of two at the 4* Preluna Hotel and Spa in the coastal town of Sliema.
The hotel is known for its Feel Good Wellness Spa with heated pool, whirlpool, sauna and beauty salon.
Standard rooms feature satellite TV, minibar, free wifi and tea and coffee-making facilities.
And if you upgrade, you’ll enjoy balconies and sea views.
This 21-night break includes B&B as well as a free third week.
Prices are from £603pp with flights from Heathrow between November 14 and December 21, and then from January 4 up until March 1, 2026, at mercuryholidays.co.uk.
34 DAYS IN BENIDORM
from £59pp per night
Once in Spain, relax with 28 nights all-inclusive at the 3* Hotel Port Fiesta Park in BenidormCredit: Getty
IF you’re not a fan of flying, this is the one for you.
Travelling by coach from the UK, you’ll enjoy a leisurely journey to sunny Benidorm, with overnight stops in the charming French towns of Troyes and Montpellier, plus a lunch stop in picturesque Macon.
Once in Spain, relax with 28 nights all-inclusive at the 3* Hotel Port Fiesta Park in Benidorm.
You’ll also get to head out and explore with guided tours of Guadalest, Valencia, Villajoyosa, Alicante and Elche and excursions to Altea, Albir and Calpe markets.
The 34-day trip, including return coach travel, is from £1,999, departing on January 7 or February 4.
Model Iris Law beams with joy under a rainbow as she prepares to celebrate hitting 25.
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Model Iris Law beams with joy under a rainbowCredit: InstagramIris showed off her toned tum in swimwear on a beach while on holidayCredit: InstagramModel Iris is preparing to celebrate turning 25Credit: Getty
Iris showed off her toned tum in swimwear on a beach while on hols.
The daughter of actors Jude Law and Sadie Frost wrote on social media: “Last day of 24.”
For Iris, who dated footballer Trent Alexander-Arnold, 27, last year, the sky’s the limit in the fashion world.
We recently revealed how Iris had her assistants running across New York to find her favourite treats ahead of the Victoria’s Secret show.
The model made her debut as an Angel during the return of the world famous runway show in October.
Iris is said to have sent her team of assistants looking for cookies from a particular bakery and then smoothies from another place in New York, according toDaily Mail.
The Victoria’s Secret catwalk show made a stunning return earlier this month and was full of A-list models including,Alessandra Ambrosio, Jasmine Tookes, Angel Reese, Barbie Ferreira,Ashley Graham, Irina Shayk and Emily Ratajkowski.
Iris burst onto the modelling scene when she was in her teens and has been booked by some of the biggest fashion houses in the world.
Model Kaia Gerber shimmers in a sparkly red dress beside her mother Cindy CrawfordCredit: GettyStunner Kaia looked the mirror image of her supermodel mumCredit: Getty
Cindy, who shares her daughter with US businessman Rande Gerber, dazzled in an off-the-shoulder gold dress.
The model previously spoke about her nepo baby status, saying: “I won’t deny the privilege that I have.
“Even if it’s just the fact that I have a really great source of information and someone to give me great advice, that alone I feel very fortunate for.
“My mom always joked, ‘If I could call and book a Chanel campaign, it would be for me and not you.’
“But I also have met amazing people through my mom whom I now get to work with.”
According to reports, the pair’s relationship had “ran its course”, with them ending things on good terms and having “no bad blood”.
Sources told TMZ that the couple ended their romantic relationship at the end of 2024, with them stepping into 2025 as single people.
But despite the couple splitting, they have kept things on good terms with there being “no bad blood” between them.
The outlet reports: “The relationship just simply ran its course after a good three years together”.
The glamorous pair were snapped at the glitzy LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los AngelesCredit: SplashCindy dazzled in an off-the-shoulder gold dressCredit: Getty
Damon Albarn has opened up about his emotional journey while recording Gorillaz’ upcoming album.
The singer and his bandmate Jamie Hewlett poured the grief of losing their dads into their ninth record, The Mountain, and Damon revealed he scattered his father’s ashes in India while making the collection.
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Damon Albarn says he and bandmate Jamie Hewlett channelled the pain of losing their fathers into Gorillaz’ new albumCredit: AFPThe band’s new album, The Mountain, is their ninth recordCredit: check copyright
“Both Jamie and I lost our fathers,” Damon said.
“We did two quite amazing, magical trips to India.
“India is a very interesting place to carry grief, because they have a very positive outlook on death.
“England is just really bad at dealing with death.
“In a way, I think this record is in that tradition of celebrating their lives.
“I did things I’d never done before. I swam in the Ganges in Varanasi.
“I watched the bodies being burnt on the banks of the Ganges.
“In England when we cremate a body we don’t even look at the bodies, it’s covered up immediately and then it’s put in the fire, the little curtains close and that’s it.
“On the banks of the Ganges, every family is there with the body wrapped in a shroud and they’re burnt, and it’s going on everywhere. It goes on 24 hours a day and it’s been going on for thousands of years.
“I took my dad’s ashes there and I cast them in the river. It was very beautiful.”
Indian culture helped shape the record — which will be released in March — with the album’s cover art featuring the title in Devanagari, a script used to write the Indian Sanskrit language.
And this time around the pair will not make their famous, animated music videos and instead are creating a one-off production.
Damon visited the River Ganges in India during the making of the new recordCredit: Getty
Damon added: “We’re making a full eight-minute thing.
“This is why there are no videos at the moment, because it’s serious stuff. It’s really great that Jamie is concentrating on doing one animated thing.
“It’s a big amount of work, any animation. It’s kind of our Achilles’ heel because no other band has to spend that kind of time just to produce one small thing.
“So let’s make it a piece of art in itself and not really rely on it for the promotional aspect of things and let it breathe in its own way.
“I think fans are going to love every aspect of this record.”
Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson at the New York premiere of Die My LoveCredit: GettyJ-Law then changed into a blue gown before heading out for a night on the town with her palsCredit: Getty
Jennifer Lawrence put on her poshest frock to party in the Big Apple after promoting her new film, Die My Love.
The Hunger Games star appears alongside Robert Pattinson in the black comedy, out this Friday.
And the pair coordinated their outfits for the New York premiere at the AMC Lincoln Square Theater.
J-Law then changed into a blue gown before heading out for a night on the town with her pals.
The actress has a busy few months coming up. She is starring in and producing upcoming murder-mystery movie The Wives, before kicking off a new project with legendary director Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio.
Jen and Leo are set to play the leads in a terrifying film adaptation of Peter Cameron’s ghost story, What Happens at Night.
Olivia Dean has a lot of goals in the future, though – including headlining Glastonbury and releasing an album of standardsCredit: Getty
She did the chart double last month but Olivia Dean is keeping her feet firmly on the ground.
The singer scored No1s with her album The Art of Loving and single Man I Need, becoming the first British solo female artist to top both charts simultaneously since Adele in 2021.
Asked whether she’s let her success go to her head, she said: “I don’t think so. I feel like I try really hard and think all the time about not becoming a p***k. That would just be horrible.
“I’ve met some and it’s just like, ‘Oh no, it got to you’.”
On how success depends on the people around you, Olivia continued: “A lot of people work really, really hard. It’s really important to recognise that yes, you’ve worked on your skill or your craft, but all the people around you had to believe in it and be there to make it happen as well.
“It takes a village of people to make an album or do a campaign. There’s a lot that people don’t see.”
It sounds like Olivia has a lot of goals in the future, though – including headlining Glastonbury and releasing an album of standards.
On theAnd The Writer Is… with Ross Golan podcast, Olivia was also asked if she had written a musical yet.
She said: “No, but I would like to in the future. It’s definitely on the bucket list for me.”
Time to say ’ello to Eli
Rising star Eli has dropped debut album Stage Girl – and it looks like her label, RCA Records – also home to Britney Spears, P!nk and Shakira – has unearthed another gemCredit: Press Handout
Hot prospect Eli released debut album Stage Girl at the weekend, jam-packed with infectious melodies.
It looks like her label, RCA Records – also home to Britney Spears, P!nk and Shakira – has unearthed another gem.
But her collection of tunes also features references to a battle with her identity, which the American singer has now overcome.
In an exclusive interview, Eli, who is a trans woman, said of her album: “It was made in a flow state.
“But that was after a year or two of complete wits’ end, last straw, end of the rope, repressing everything under the sun as a human being for 20 years of my life.
“I was just like, ‘I need this joy and I need this super-extravagant pop’.”
Part of her journey of discovery is related to listeners in album highlights Girl of Your Dreams and Falsetto, and Eli now hopes that her music will help people to accept those in the queer community.
She explained: “I like the idea that this is going to play in Walmart in Kansas, for the lady who thinks I’m the spawn of Satan.
“And she’s going to be like, ‘Wow, this song is so good’.
“I feel like there is a sort of trickle-down effect of awareness of my humanity and trans humanity in general.”
Eli is already feeling the love following her album release – Mark Ronson, Demi Lovato and Zara Larsson have all voiced their support and her fan base is growing and growing.
Eli added: “I feel so excited by the community I’m existing in in LA right now.
“I feel like everyone is so supportive of each other.
“And it’s so refreshing and so cool.”
THE WEEK IN BIZ
Today: Jack Whitehall and David Duchovny will be at the BFI on London’s South Bank for the world premiere of their new psychological thriller Malice,ahead of its launch on Prime Video next Friday.
Wednesday: Bastille launch their From All Sides tour in Plymouth, celebrating 15 years of the band.
Thursday: Bums on sofas for the finale of The Celebrity Traitors on BBC One at 9pm.
Friday: Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga and Sabrina Carpenter are all expected to receive nods as the nominations are announced for the Grammy Awards ahead of the ceremony in February.
Dazzled by Doja
Doja Cat joined A-listers for a night outCredit: GettyDoja attended the fundraising bash alongside a host of stars, including actresses Demi Moore, Salma Hayek and Cynthia Erivo all of whom dazzled in their oufitsCredit: Getty
Doja Cat looked a true member of the glitterati as she joined A-listers for a night out.
The rapper sported a sparkly orange dress at the LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los Angeles and completed the ensemble with a curly blonde wig in a nod to Marilyn Monroe.
This is not the first time she has gained inspiration from the Hollywood legend. At the 2022 Grammys, she wore a custom-made crystal Versace gown – which took 475 hours to make.
Doja attended the fundraising bash alongside a host of stars, including actresses Demi Moore, Salma Hayek and Cynthia Erivo all of whom dazzled in their ’fits.
Keep sparkling, ladies.
Robyn’s returnso sexi
Robyn is set to release a new single and tease her ninth album Sexistential after a seven-year breakCredit: Getty – Contributor
Singer Robyn is planning to drop a new single in the next few weeks, then her ninth album in 2026.
It is seven years since the Swedish-born star put out her last collection, Honey, and an industry insider tells me the new one, with alluring title Sexistential, promises to be bigger and better than ever before.
They said: “Robyn has spent years working on this music and has been really inspired by loads of up-and-coming artists.
“She has worked with some very cool people and all the stops are being pulled out for this to be her biggest record in decades.”
Robyn has joined Gracie Abrams and Charli XCX on stage for surprise performances over the past year.
But by the sounds of it, next year she will likely be performing plenty of big gigs of her own.
Cat Burns opens up about losing her grandad and breaking up with a long-time girlfriend on her new album How to Be Human.
The singer and Celebrity Traitors star told The Sunday Times’ Style mag: “While grieving, a quote that stood out to me was: ‘Grief is just love with no place to go’. That helped guide the message of the album.”
A Brum deal for Benson
Benson Boone is due to return to the stage at London’s O2 tonight after cancelling his Birmingham show due to voice problems.Credit: Getty
The Beautiful Things singer, who is on his American Heart World Tour, told fans he wouldn’t have been able to put on the show at the Utilita Arena due to problems with his voice.
In a statement, he told fans: “Birmingham I am so so sorry but I will not be able to perform. I have tried everything I can to revive my voice, but I cannot give you the show I’d like to be able to give you with the condition of my throat right now.
“I’m working with my team to find a date to reschedule as soon as possible. I promise I will do everything in my power to make it up to you. I love you guys so much.”
We’re sending you our best, Benson, and we hope you can make the show tonight.
TWISTING the handles of his personal periscope around, my son Billy lets out an excited gasp.
Through the lens he’s able to catch a glimpse of the rollercoasters and colourful rides that await him at Chessington World of Adventures, right on the doorstep of our hotel.
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The Paw Patrol gang cut looseCredit: AlamyOne of the five Paw Patrol roomsCredit: Chris Read-Jones/Chessington World Of AdventuresThe Sun’s Lydia Major and son BillyCredit: Supplied
I’m staying in one of the theme park’s new Paw Patrol-themed rooms, offered up just in time for half term.
Part of Chessington’s Safari Resort hotel, the five new pup-tastic bedrooms offer a glimpse of what’s to come when a new Paw Patrol-themed land opens next spring.
Nothing has been spared on making these spaces as immersive as possible.
Funky bunk beds have been disguised as the famous Paw Patroller truck featured in the show, with a driver’s seat at the front and a steering wheel that little ones can play with.
A yellow periscope in the main room, that fans will recognise as a replica of that from the Paw Patrol Lookout Tower, is surrounded by coloured bean bags which kids can plonk themselves on when spying on the theme park.
And if the view from the periscope isn’t enough to impress them, the bedroom window one will be.
Rooms overlook the park’s Wanyama Reserve, and one afternoon we were treated to the sight of two giraffes munching away on their leafy dinner.
I was grateful for some tranquillity to balance out the “wow” of the all-singing, all-dancing bedroom.
The decor here is bold and bright, with huge murals of the pups showing their wacky adventures.
Rooms sleep up to two adults, in a plump double bed, and three children.
They also come with a special Paw Patrol parking outside.
Even when you’re dining at one of the two restaurants, you’re likely to bump into your little ones’ favourite character.
As Billy tucked into his junior Wanyama burger (£7) at dinner, he clocked Skye giving some of her fans a high-five and a cuddle across the room.
If you don’t get to meet your hero at the hotel, Paw Patrol guests can nab fast-track entry to daily meet-and-greets with Chase, Skye and Rubble in the park.
A night’s stay comes with a huge buffet breakfast – which has everything from a full English to pancakes and pastries and is available from 7am to 10am.
Access to the hotel’s Savannah Splash Pool means children can burn off any extra energy.
After an action-packed day here, adults will be just as grateful for the ultra-comfy beds as the kids are.
Paw Patrol stays start from £155 for a family of four, including bed and breakfast. Stays include early ride access, a Pup Pass (meet-and-greet fast track pass) and a Reserve & Ride one-shot pass.
Guests staying before the Paw Patrol-themed land opens will have a chance to be one of the first to ride the new rollercoaster in 2026.
FANCY a bit of the royal treatment? I know just the, er, palace.
The Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort on Morocco’s north-west coast is regal in both size and design.
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The Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort, MoroccoCredit: SuppliedRick’s Cafe replica bar inspired from the iconic flick CasablancaCredit: AlamyA giant bed and sea view at MazaganCredit: Supplied
With its dreamy arches and soaring ceilings, traditional Zellij tiling, tree-lined atrium and central courtyards, this five-star wonder is truly fit for royalty.
Inside, everything smells of rich orange blossom. You could get lost here. In fact, you want to.
Pop princess Paloma Faith stayed here with her family this year and Moroccan golf star Ayoub Lguirati — winner of the first Arab World Professional Championship in 2023 — often plays the resort’s beachfront course designed by one of the sport’s greats, Gary Player.
Oh, and now I was there.
The 500-room Mazagan is so grand that it is home to one of North Africa’s largest casinos — and one evening, my friends and I joined the guests trying their luck on its 37 gaming tables, 80 roulettes wheels and 370 slot machines.
Most read in Beach holidays
Good news for risk-takers is that the casino stays open 23 hours a day, so this hotel almost never sleeps.
But as amateurs, we didn’t fancy losing a king’s ransom on Blackjack, so moved on to the 1940s-themed Studio 42 lounge bar next door which is swathed in royal-green velvet drapes.
It has live music at weekends and serves glam cocktails including a homemade rosé liquor and gin concoction for £10, or local beer from £5.50, so is a sure bet for a nightcap or two.
When it came time to hit the hay, my ocean-view room was similar in its grandeur to the rest of the hotel, with traditional metal hanging lanterns, dark-wood furniture, and a bed that could fit a family of four.
Thankfully, 80 per cent of the rooms are connecting, so parents do not have to share with little ’uns.
Even with the balconette doors to my room closed, I could hear the inviting roar of the Atlantic Ocean.
It is safe to swim here — there’s a lifeguard during the day — but you can also rent paddle and bodyboards, or make the most of the swell with surf lessons.
Even in late September, temperatures in El Jadida can reach 30C.
Animal-lovers will enjoy a trip to the Mazagan’s farm, which has goats, cows and chickens. Its beachfront stables are immaculately maintained and the horses and ponies have shiny, glowing coats.
Riding on the beach has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember, so on an unusually grey afternoon I climbed on to a palomino-coloured mare called Rosa and headed for the shore.
She trotted along Haouzia Beach, steadily swerving the incoming tide, as I sat back — nay, upright — to enjoy the view. The next day, for something more fast-paced, our group zoomed along the sand — thankfully flat — on quad bikes.
The Mazagan also has laser games, go-karting, paintballing, a 22ft climbing wall, archery, a gym, and pickleball and tennis courts. There are daytime clubs for both kids and teens, too.
But a holiday in Morocco calls for a spot of haggling in the medina — and just the place for that is Casablanca which is the country’s largest, most cosmopolitan city, just an hour’s drive from the hotel.
Built in the early 19th century by the French, the New Medina is smaller and less chaotic than its walled older counterpart but just as authentic.
We find everything from artisan teapots and pottery, leather bags and hand-woven Berber rugs, to stalls piled high with native olives for a fraction of what we would pay at home.
Casablanca also has a striking mix of religious buildings, owing to its colonial history.
Many of these, such as the monumental Hassan II Mosque on the city’s promenade, offer guided tours.
Arabesque carvings
The Hassan II Mosque is a gem — with the world’s second-tallest minaret at 689ft and an elaborately decorated prayer room which can fit 20,000 worshippers.
As is customary if entering a mosque, we removed our shoes.
Our guide then recounted tales of its craftmanship as we quietly admired the stonework, arabesque carvings, Murano glass chandeliers, and titanium doors weighing several tonnes.
It’s always cocktail time at MazaganCredit: SuppliedThe stunning Hassan II Mosque in CasblancaCredit: Getty
For many Brits, though, Casablanca will conjure memories of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman’s 1942 film — although the wartime classic was actually filmed in Hollywood.
Disappointed to discover Rick’s Cafe from the film did not exist, an American woman opened a replica bar, with grand piano and Moroccan hanging lanterns, in the Old Medina in 2004.
“Of all the gins joints in all the towns”, to quote from the film, this one was well worth walking into for a boozy pit-stop on the way back to the Mazagan.
But, of course, there’s nothing wrong with spending a week simply lazing beside the resort’s lagoon-style pool, having treatments in its award-winning spa and eating and drinking like royalty in its 13 restaurants and bars.
Horse riders on Haouzia BeachCredit: SuppliedFor many Brits Casablanca will conjure memories of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman’s 1942 filmCredit: Alamy
The Market Place evening buffet offers an abundance of local and international dishes, from salads to saffron slow-cooked lamb, shawarma and a wok station.
Or the hotel’s jewel in the crown, the dimly lit Bushra restaurant, serves up Middle Eastern dishes and a live band to its impressively receptive diners.
Sat under gigantic brass chandeliers and dramatic drapes, even the grannies sang and clapped cheerily between mouthfuls of hummus with beef fillet, grilled jumbo shrimps and the most tender slow-cooked lamb.
Just like the flavours, the service is five-star — waiter Wafae deserves mention.
But I had my favourite-ever starter in Sel de Mer.
The nautically-themed seafood restaurant has an extraordinary signature dish of blue lobster salad with fennel remoulade and mustard jus. At £26, it is not cheap, but lobster never is.
I could get used to living like a queen.
Hayley Doyle at the stablesCredit: Supplied
GO: MOROCCO
GETTING THERE: Royal Air Maroc offers daily direct flights from Heathrow to Casablanca with fares from £250, including 23kg luggage.
YOU’RE in the Alps for a ski holiday – you’ve got your gear, your lift pass and the optimism that you won’t wipe out on a blue run as kids whizz past you.
But what if skiing on a skiing holiday is optional?
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Alpine Glasto gets in the swingCredit: GettyDJs get the crowd goingCredit: Gwilym Thomas
What if there’s an Alpine world that doesn’t require you to throw yourself downhill at speed?
The wild and wonderful phenomenon of après-ski only gears up after the lifts stop — and the party gets going.
Après-ski is no small affair — this is not just drinks before dinner.
In the Three Valleys area of the French Alps, après is a daily festival and feels like a way of life.
Picture this: a live band steps on stage ahead of a DJ surrounded by strobe lights, crowds are dancing on the tables (in ski boots) and bobble hats are thrown in the air.
This melee of strangers is swaying together, drinks in hand, as revellers sing at the top of their lungs.
This is a kind of Alpine Glastonbury, where people swap flower crowns and flags for puffer jackets and goggles.
And the best part? You don’t have to ski or snowboard to enjoy it.
The Three Valleys is known for some of the best slopes in the world, with almost 600km of pistes, as high as 3,000 metres, to pick from.
But interconnected Valleys resorts Méribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens also showcase thousands of music gigs.
The magic is thanks to London and Méribel-based agency Après Ski Bands, which books more than 3,500 such events per season across 130 venues.
These aren’t bog-standard cover bands — they’re high-energy pros, picked in X Factor-style auditions in the UK, who turn ski resorts into concert venues during winter.
In five days in the Alps, I saw nine superb acts without even trying — starting with party band Magnolia, ending with DJ and MC duo Rio & Rhymes and acts in between including emerging alt-rock talent Pattern Pusher and diverse après heroes The Wingmen.
For folk fans, there’s guitarist Chris Quinn, who opened for the Jools Holland Orchestra, and singer-songwriter Albert Jones, who appeared on BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend.
Performing in the Alps is hard graft, as musicians play up to 140 dates in a single season.
At Lodge Du Village in Méribel alone, there are 900 live gigs each winter — with Mondays to Wednesdays often wilder than Saturday nights (free shots for those who arrive early).
Le Rond Point — or Ronnie — in Méribel is one of those places where you show up for one drink and suddenly it’s four hours later, and you’re leading a conga line and wearing someone else’s unicorn onesie.
And let’s not forget ultra-Insta La Folie Douce, a venue likened to Ibiza in the snow. If it sounds like an attack on the senses, that’s because it is.
But if partying isn’t really your thing, there are other things on offer in the Valleys.
For a touch of luxury, hit a hotel spa or soak in your chalet’s outdoor hot tub with a glass of fizz, watching skiers from a distance.
If you want to be on the white stuff minus the face-planting, then snowshoeing or sled-dog walking are great for exploring at a gentle pace.
Then, of course, there is the ultimate Alpine sport — eating.
Revellers get ready for the apres-ski bashCredit: Supplied
Food here is an attraction in itself, with Méribel’s Le Cro Magnon and La Terrasse du Village delivering everything from hearty Savoyard to refined French-British fusion.
If you come to the Alps and don’t eat fondue, tartiflette or raclette, did you even visit the Alps?
And now it’s not just a winter thing, with resorts shifting towards year-round tourism, meaning the party doesn’t stop when the snow starts to melt in April.
Whether you’re dancing on tables, belting out rock anthems with a crowd of strangers, exploring snowy forests, or eating your bodyweight in cheese, you’ve made it down a black run to holiday heaven.
GO: THREE VALLEYS
GETTING THERE: Private transfers from Geneva Airport to Meribel cost from £59.50pp for a group of four people.
STAYING THERE: Seven nights’ self-catering at the Chalet Rosa Apartment in Meribel Village, just a couple of minutes from the piste and La Terrace du Village, costs from £258.34pp, based on six sharing in low season.
SHE is one half of TV’s most romantic couple in Netflix’s No1 UK hit Nobody Wants This. But in real life, Kristen Bell’s relationship is a little more unconventional — as she admits she would not bat an eyelid if husband Dax Shepard cheated. Kristen, 45, said of infidelity: “Kind of who cares, to be…
BRIDGERTON’S Simone Ashley is in pole position to feature in the sequel to Brad Pitt’s movie F1.
The 30-year-old, who starred with Jonathan Bailey in the Netflix romance, was cast in this year’s flick but her scenes were cut.
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Simone Ashley is in pole position to feature in the sequel to Brad Pitt’s movie F1Credit: GettySimone wows in a barely there outfitCredit: GettySimone shot to fame after starring in the hit Netflix show Sex EducationCredit: Getty
A source said: “A script is already in the works with early plans to go into production next year.”
As well as appearing in Sex Education, Ashley has also lent her acting chops to suspense drama Thriller.
She shot to fame after starring in the hit Netflix show Sex Education.
The star developed her acting skills at the Arts Ed school in Chiswick, which specializes in Musical Theatre & Acting degrees.
Simone has spoken about coming from a traditional Indian family, who finds her acting career “quite scary and unsettling”.
She told Veylex: “My parents are incredibly protective over me, and sometimes I found it quite stifling.
“It made me want to escape and do things my own way. I’ve always been a bit rebellious in that sense.”
“I am incredibly privileged to be apart of a generation where young women from all over the world have more opportunity than ever before, where we are being less stereotyped and walls and being broken down slowly.”
Simone strikes a pose in this ensembleCredit: GettyBrad Pitt as Sonny Hayes in F1Credit: AlamySimone (as Kate Sharma) with Jonathan Bailey (as Anthony Bridgerton), in Netflix show BridgertonCredit: Netflix
From gorgeous Getxo to the City of Love, you won’t want to come home from these mint mini-breaks
Find foodie heaven near BilbaoCredit: Supplied by PR
SPAIN – Palacio Arriluce Hotel, Getxo
Commissioning Editor Martha Cliff and fiancée Lauren found foodie heaven near Bilbao.
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THE PAD
Check in and zone out at the Palacio Arriluce
Perched on a striking cliffside overlooking the Bay of Abra in Getxo and with a beauty of an outdoor pool, this 18th-century boutique gem sits in a palatial setting and offers the perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary elegance.
Craving vistas of the rolling Basque mountains? You’ve got it. Want to gaze at boats bobbing in the harbour? No problem. A city view more your vibe? It’s got that, too.
Be sure to eat breakfast – think other-worldly Spanish tortilla and Iberico ham – on the terrace to take full advantage.
Meanwhile, come dinner at Delaunay, try local specialities such as grilled kokotxas (hake chin) on stewed spider crab, £35, and Iberian pork shoulder with passionfruit, £31.
Make sure you’re there on a Thursday to join locals in Getxo for “pintxo pote”, a foodie’s dream bar crawl and Basque country tradition.
Restaurante Ixta Bide offers four pintxos (small savoury snacks) – our fave was pintxo de txaka, akin to a mini crab sandwich – and two vinos for a mere £9.
Just don’t expect to bag a seat! Wind your way up the steps of Algorta to reach Arrantzale and finish on its perfectly salted pork belly (Arrantzale.com).
While day-tripping, step into one of Bilbao’s oldest bars, Café Iruña, just a hop from Arbando metro station.
Dating back to 1903, the beautiful tiling is reason enough to visit, but coffee for just £1.75, is a big pull, too.
Or opt for a glass of the local txakoli white wine, £2.70, instead (Cafeirunabilbao.com).
DON’T MISS
The works inside Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum are, of course, breathtaking, but the building itself and its surrounding sculptures – including Puppy, a massive dog made of flowers by American artist Jeff Koons – are worth the trip alone.
Fly to Bilbao from London Gatwick and Heathrow with Vueling from £56 return (Vueling.com).
FRANCE – Hôtel Dame des Arts, Paris
Creative Director Mark Hayman and wife Margaret fell for cocktails and culture in the French capital.
Fall for cocktails and culture in the French capitalCredit: Getty Images
THE PAD
Rest easy at Hôtel Dame des ArtsCredit: LUDOVIC BALAY
This sleek bolt-hole in the city’s Latin Quarter has shaken off its Holiday Inn past to channel full Hollywood glamour.
Think rich woods, bamboo accents and pretty palms, with rooms that feel like film sets, thanks to glass dividers, velvet finishes and luxe bathrooms made for long soaks.
Downstairs, Pimpan serves up bold Franco-Mexican fusions on a leafy terrace – highlights include beef tartare with piquillos, £12.50, lamb shoulder with harissa, £25, and hibiscus-poached pear, £11.
But the real scene-stealer is the rooftop bar, where 360-degree skyline views stretch from the Eiffel Tower to Sacré Cœur – even locals come here for the vistas.
Order a Spritz del Arte (Aperol, mango liqueur, rum and prosecco), £17, or the punchy Uno Mas margarita, £14, pop on your biggest sunglasses and watch the city turn blush at sunset.
There’s also a sauna and a gym kitted out with sculptural wooden equipment for those partial to a designer workout.
EXPLORE
Explore the history of Notre-DameCredit: Getty Images
First time in Paris? Glide down the Seine aboard the Batobus – this hop-on-hop-off riverboat is a relaxing (and photogenic) way to tick off major sights like the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre.
For more treasure-hunting, swing by the flea market off Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine – a weekend haven of vintage mirrors, mid-century ceramics and nostalgic postcards.
There’s no entry fee, just bring cash and your best haggling game.
Then head to the Panthéon, a neoclassical gem where Voltaire, Rousseau and Marie Curie lie in dramatic crypts beneath a rooftop dome offering jaw-dropping views.
Lively, retro-chic Brasserie Dubillot’s espresso martinis, £10.50, are a must, but equally good is the sausage and mash with truffle sauce, £16, steak-frites, £21, and the perfect crème brûlée, £8 (Lanouvellegarde.com/brasserie-dubillot).
Craving something casual? PNY serves next-level burgers with aged beef, brioche buns and toppings like smoked cheddar and pickled jalapeños, from £11.50 (Pnyburger.com).
Or just nab a pavement perch at Café Saint-André for a croque monsieur, £10.50, a glass of sancerre, £7, and some world-class people-watching.
Double rooms at Hôtel Dame des Arts cost from £226 per night (Damedesarts.com).
Psst…
Fancy something a little more party? Rixos Premium Dubai JBR sits in one of the UAE city’s buzziest neighbourhoods, with captivating views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest ferris wheel.
Suave rooms come with huge tubs, rain showers and espresso machines, from £304 per night (Rixos.com).
Rixos Premium Dubai JBR sits in one of the UAE city’s buzziest neighbourhoodsCredit: SuppliedThe suave rooms have captivating views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest ferris wheelCredit: SuppliedHead to Aussie beach club Byron Bathers for great foodCredit: Byron Bathers Club/Instagram
Downstairs is Azure Beach Club with its large pool, pumping soundtrack, outdoor gym and private beach (Azure-beach.com/dubai).
The breakfast buffet is, in true Dubai style, eye-poppingly big – you can even blend your own fresh peanut butter.
Plus, you’re half an hour’s cab ride from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, for that classic Dubai selfie – viewing platform visits cost from £37 per person (Burjkhalifa.ae).
When you’re craving a chilled day, head to Aussie beach club Byron Bathers for lobster linguine, £37, and burrata pizza, £17, with excellent Whitsunday spritzes – an exquisite blend of grapefruit bitters, strawberry shrub, pink grapefruit, citrus vodka, Aperol and prosecco, £14 (Byronbathers.com).
