This Morning

Robson Green reveals ‘saddest thing’ about Grantchester ending ‘I burst into tears’

Grantchester star Robson Green has said he ‘burst into tears’ as he shared details of the final days of filming the last ever series of the ITV crime drama

Grantchester favourite Robson Green has revealed there are just five days of filming remaining on the final ever series of the beloved ITV drama.

The announcement came over the summer that the crime series would be drawing to a close after its 11th run.

The popular ITV programme features Robson, 60, as Detective Inspector Geordie Keating, whose character teams up with vicar Alphy Kottaram, portrayed by Rishi Nair, to crack cases in the Cambridgeshire village.

The series draws inspiration from James Runcie’s literary works.

During Tuesday’s This Morning appearance, Robson, who has been busy with another venture exploring the globe’s finest walking routes, spoke about Grantchester’s conclusion, reports Wales Online.

The performer, who has starred in the programme since its 2014 debut, revealed to presenters Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary: “We’re filming the final series, I’ve got five days left, I finish next Tuesday!”

Speaking about his Grantchester colleagues both past and present, he continued: “That’s the saddest thing about it all, I’m going to miss that family of wonderful people, I’ve got so many wonderful memories.

“If you watch Grantchester, I play a character Inspector Keating, and I wear this one suit. A brown suit. In every scene, in every episode, and every series and I hung it up for the last time on Friday.”

Discussing the poignant moment, Robson confessed: “I burst into tears!”

It comes as Robson, reflecting on the show’s conclusion, said during the summer: “From the very beginning, I have had the incredible fortune to be part of this extraordinary team of talented, passionate, and dedicated individuals who have become more than colleagues. They have become family.

“I have made friendships forged through shared laughter, challenges, and triumphs.

“The bonds we’ve formed extend far beyond the camera lens, and I know that they will endure long after the final scene within the Grantchester world has been filmed.

“Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey.

“Emma Kingsman Lloyd and Daisy Coulam…. from that very first day you gave me the extraordinary opportunity to be part of this experience..

“It has been an honour to share in the magic of Grantchester, and I am forever grateful for the memories, the friendships, and the love that this journey has given me. I hope I made you proud.”

This Morning continues on weekdays at 10am on ITV and ITV X.

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Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s Strictly Come Dancing female replacements revealed

It’s the end of the Strictly road for Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who announced they’ve quit the BBC show – but who is set to take over presenting duties?

With Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announcing they are quitting Strictly Come Dancing when this series ends, tongues are wagging about who will replace the presenting duo.

And already bookies have been placing their bets on who will land the lucrative gig after BBC bosses have reportedly vowed that the show must go on after 21 years on air.

Fleur East, who already presents Strictly spin-off show It Takes Two has been given odds of 2/1 – and as that’s how Claudia went on to get the main gig when she took over presenting duties from the late, great Bruce Forsyth, it would make sense she would be considered for the job.

Her co-presenter Janette Manrara is also in the running with odds of 3/1. While former It Takes Two presenter Rylan Clark and TV and radio host Roman Kemp are next in line. Zoe Ball, Holly Willoughby and Hannah Waddingham are more big names being put in the frame.

READ MORE: Strictly cast ‘blindsided’ by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s double exit

Former celebrity contestants, such as documentary maker Stacey Dooley, ex-England footballer turned pundit Alex Scott, This Morning host Alison Hammond and ex-eastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis have also been put in the running, according to odds from Gambling.com.

While he’s not mentioned in the odds just yet, Robbie Williams appears to have thrown his hat in the ring for the top job.

The 51-year-old Let Me Entertain You singer took to X to tell his 2.3 million followers: “Just got a rather fancy phone call about a very glittery dance floor job. Apparently, sequins and tuxedos might be in my future. Stay tuned,” followed by a wink face emoji.

A source told The Sun: “At this stage it’s all to play for and there isn’t any kind of heir apparent – though there are some obvious stars who’d be possibilities.

“What is more certain is the fact that execs are expected to opt for two more women, because the Beeb value the symbolism of an all-female presenting team on their biggest Saturday night show.

“But one element likely to play a big part is diversity because, as terrific as it is having two women hosting Strictly, they are also two middle-aged white people. This was a show created 21 years ago and now has to consider what it should look and feel like from 2026 onwards.”

The announcement has come at a good time for Claudia, who is one of TV’s most in demand presenters at the moment. She is currently enjoying huge success with BBC game show The Traitors and its celebrity version, which is airing at the moment.

She’s also landed another series of Channel 4 talent show The Piano. Both shows are said to be perfect for Claudia as “it’s lucrative and fun gig… but it also doesn’t eat into her life too much.”

With both shows only taking a few weeks to film, it will free up more time to spend with her family, including her husband Kris Thykier and their three kids. This is in comparison to Strictly, which “basically takes over her life for four months at a time”.

Tess and Claudia’s last show will be when the final of the current series airs on Saturday, December 20. But they will both in a special episode that will be shown on Christmas Day.

It’s been 21 years with 56-year-old Tess at the helm. Her former co-host was the late great Bruce Forsyth, who died in 2017 at the age of 89. Claudia, 53, who formerly presented Strictly spin-off show It Takes Two, stepped in in 2014 and has been Tess’ co-host for the past 11 years.

READ MORE: Clarkson’s Farm fans can get Jeremy Clarkson’s Hawkstone Beer advent calendar under £100

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Ruth Langsford saw different side to Strictly’s Anton Du Beke after ‘bursting into tears’

Ruth Langsford has opened up about her time on Strictly Come Dancing, admitting that she often felt ‘really rubbish’ and would ‘always burst into tears’ behind-the-scenes

Ruth Langsford has disclosed that whilst her former dance partner Anton Du Beke may appear to be “a laugh”, there’s another side to his character that Strictly Come Dancing fans might not recognise.

In an exclusive chat, the former This Morning presenter confessed that she frequently felt “really rubbish” backstage, as she measured herself against other competitors, including Debbie McGee and Gemma Atkinson, who had advanced to become “so good” on the dance floor.

Luckily, Ruth had the backing of Strictly professional-turned-judge Anton, who provided a shoulder to lean on during her difficult moments, describing their bond as “the best thing” to emerge from her time on the BBC programme.

The Loose Women host revealed: “I always want people to know that, Anton’s such a laugh – he’s laugh, laugh, laugh – but he’s the kindest man.”

Ruth added: “I was always bursting into tears as the show went on, because it gets hard and everyone’s so good, and then I would feel really rubbish because I would think, ‘I can’t do it’. And he’d go, ‘you’re fine’.”

“I felt like I was letting him down, but he never criticised me, he was just fun, and in fact, sometimes we’d do a step and he’d say, ‘that’s good’ and I’d go, ‘oh thanks’ and he’d say, ‘it’s not what I taught you, but it’s good!’ And he just made me laugh!”.

Ruth proceeded to disclose that Anton possessed the ideal technique to soothe her nerves when things weren’t working out in the rehearsal studio.

She remembered: “If he ever said, ‘no, no, because we’re supposed to be going right’, and then he’d look at me, and my bottom lip would start to tremble, and I’m about to cry, he’d be like, ‘right, come on, cup of tea!’ Honestly, the nicest man.”

Ruth was also brimming with praise for Anton’s abilities as part of Strictly’s judging panel, where he has been seated alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse since 2021.

Nevertheless, Anton’s elevation on Strictly means he won’t be able to take part in the competition anymore, which Ruth believes is the sole drawback, as she would be keen to “have another go” with her mate alongside her.

She declared: “Let me have another go with Anton! I can’t now, because he’s a judge.

“I’m so delighted he’s a judge, he’s a very good judge, but I always say to him, ‘I think they should let you have another go, I think I’d be better at it!'”.

Ruth just missed out on reaching Blackpool with Anton in 2017, after facing the feared dance-off against Jonnie Peacock and Oti Mabuse, whilst Joe McFadden and Katya Jones ultimately claimed the Glitterball Trophy that year.

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This Morning’s Alison Hammond slammed over number of errors during Priscilla Presley chat

This Morning fans rushed to social media to complain about Alison Hammond’s constant mispronunciation of rock and roll legend Elvis during her chat with Priscilla Presley

Of late Alison Hammond has had nothing but praise heaped on her as she became the nation’s sweetheart. But it looks as though her run of good luck may be coming to an end as she has found herself on the receiving end of harsh criticism by viewers of This Morning.

The 50 year old TV presenter, who had her first taste of fame back in 2002 while appearing on Big Brother, was introducing her next guest when viewers noticed that she was constantly mis-pronouncing the name of Priscilla Presley’s legendary ex husband – Elvis. Instead she kept referring to him as Alvis.

Priscilla attended the popular daytime TV show and sat on the infamous sofa with Dermot O’Leary and Alison to promote her latest memoir, Softly, As I Leave You: Life After Elvis.

But before Priscilla started talking about her life with the rock and roll legend before and after their split, fans felt the need to air their feelings on X. One person said: “Who is Alvis, Alison?”

Another added: “Just waiting for Priscilla to ask who the hell is this person Alvis you keep mentioning.” A third person joked: “She fell in love with Alvis. Good job Elvis didn’t find out about that!”

Meanwhile a fourth added: “I’d love to see Priscilla correct Alison on name pronunciation.” “Just waiting for Priscilla to ask who the hell is this person Alvis you keep mentioning,” said a fifth.

And sharing the same sentiment, a sixth chimed in saying: “Wasn’t Alvis one of those Chipmunks?” During her interview on This Morning, Priscilla opened up on the moment she first met the iconic star, who sadly passed away in 1977 at the age of 42 from a cardiac arrest.

The star, 80, was only 14 at the time she met Elvis in 1959, who was 10 years her senior at the time. By 1968, the pair welcomed their only daughter into the world, Lisa Marie Presley.

But due to his demanding career as a rock and roll icon, hectic travelling schedule and a string of infidelities, Priscilla finally had enough of the marriage.

And it was at this point she embarked on an affair in 1972 and finalised their divorce the following year. After her divorce, Priscilla met Brazilian screenwriter Marco Garibaldi and they welcomed a son named Navarone, in 1987.

In her latest memoir, the businesswoman and author recalls the moment Elvis was considering hiring a hitman to murder her boyfriend, Mike Stone who worked as a karate Instructor.

Elvis struggled with the idea of Priscilla being with another man she entered into a relationship with Mike while legally married.

But this came after she found out a host of women had been sending the singer letters to their home address, and this apparently, was enough proof she needed that their marriage had come to an end.

In the book, according to Fox News, she wrote: “When I turned the key in the mailbox, however, what poured out wasn’t bills or junk mail. The mailbox was stuffed full of letters from girls. I finally held written proof of what I’d always feared. I was deeply hurt, but I was also furious. I called Elvis and demanded an explanation.”

She continued: “When that tactic failed, he resorted to saying the girls were all lying. This time, though, turning the tables didn’t work. If Elvis was having affairs that were none of my business, then it was none of his business what I was doing. The close friendship that Mike and I had developed turned into an affair.”

But on learning about her affair, she revealed: “Elvis found the thought of me with another man unbearable. In the weeks after my departure, he told the guys that Mike had to die. He even asked Joe [Esposito] to find a hit man. Eventually, Elvis was talked out of eliminating Mike. Joe warned me to be careful. When I offered to bring Lisa [Marie Presley] to Vegas for one of Elvis’s shows, Joe advised against it.

Priscilla added: “Seeing me might set Elvis off. Over time, and with a lot of persuasion from his father and the guys, Elvis gradually calmed down and gave up the idea of killing Mike, thank God.”

READ MORE: £6 ‘pain-free’ razors has shoppers ditching professional exfoliating

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This Morning’s Ben Shephard insists ‘we never have’ after Cat Deeley’s ‘cheat’ admission

This Morning’s Cat Deeley appeared to make a shock confession regarding the ITV show’s competitions during Monday’s episode

A cringe-worthy moment unfolded on This Morning when Cat Deeley seemed to confess she and co-presenter Ben Shephard “cheat” whilst hosting one of the programme’s competitions.

The pair returned to television screens on Monday (September 29) with a fresh edition of This Morning, where regular contributors Gyles Brandreth and Ashley James joined them.

Cat and Ben started concluding the episode’s news section and revealed details about This Morning’s Spin To Win competition, which invites viewers to ring in for a chance to participate in a game and secure cash prizes on the ITV programme.

Ben outlined all the competition’s terms and conditions, whilst Cat disclosed that viewers could bag up to £12,000, with both wishing fans the best of luck.

“Yes, good luck!” Cat exclaimed, before turning to Ben and enquiring: “Are you saying that to me? Because of the competition?”

He responded: “Well, we know what happened when we’ve done this in the past,” prompting Cat to suddenly blurt out: “We cheat a little bit!”

Gyles appeared stunned by her admission and swiftly protested: “I don’t think we do!”.

“We know, we never have, we never will. We can’t!” Ben also interjected. Beaming, Cat declared: “We will never cheat! Sometimes, people don’t pick up the phone..”

Gyles and Ashley burst into laughter whilst Ben kept attempting to silence his co-presenter, with Cat smirking directly at the camera, reports Wales Online.

“You know Ralf [Little] and Will [Mellor] have that button that they can hit when someone’s going to say something… Someone should’ve hit that!” Ben remarked to Cat, who carried on chuckling.

The competition segments on This Morning are typically hosted by Andi Peters or Jeff Brazier, with stars like Kate Lawler occasionally stepping in to announce the competitions.

Cat and Ben helm This Morning from Monday to Thursday each week, while Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary usually present the ITV show on Friday mornings.

Gyles and Ashley are frequent guests on the programme, offering their insights on the latest news and headlines.

Other regular contributors include LBC’s Nick Ferrari, Nicola Thorpe and Tom Swarbrick. The ITV programme recently invited former GMB host Piers Morgan to discuss the day’s news.

This Morning airs on weekdays at 10am on ITV1

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Holly Willoughby plotting to become the next Graham Norton in huge career comeback

TV presenter Holly Willoughby is reportedly plotting a bold primetime comeback with husband Dan Baldwin’s backing, aiming to reinvent herself as TV’s next big solo host

Holly Willoughby plotting to become the next Graham Norton in huge career comeback
Holly Willoughby plotting to become the next Graham Norton in huge career comeback(Image: 2024 Karwai Tang/Getty)

Holly Willoughby is said to be quietly preparing the next phase of her career, with husband Dan Baldwin stepping in to help steer the plans. After some time away from the spotlight, the couple are said to be putting together a strategy that could mark her biggest return yet.

Sources claim Holly’s aim is nothing less than a primetime slot, with the ambition to rival the likes of Graham Norton and Jonathan Ross. “Anyone who has written Holly off has another thing coming,” an insider revealed.

“She’s never been more determined. The next move is going to be spectacular, and Dan is her secret weapon.”

The former This Morning presenter, 44, who met Baldwin through work back in 2004, has faced a turbulent few years both personally and professionally. Her career slowed after she left daytime TV in 2023, while Baldwin went on to notch up a string of successes, including the reboot of Gladiators.

READ MORE: Alison Hammond ‘how I lost 11 stone without dieting’ as fans hardly recognise herREAD MORE: EastEnders’ Natalie Cassidy names her ‘big fear’ after ‘odd experience’ on This Morning

Phil and Holly on This Morning
Holly previously presented This Morning for 11 years alongside Phillip Schofield (Image: ITV)

That difference reportedly caused some tension, but the pair are now firmly aligned, determined to re-establish Holly as one of Britain’s biggest presenters.

“She and Dan both know she has what it takes to go solo in a primetime evening slot, and they plan to make her the biggest female presenter in the UK again. Together, they are a force to be reckoned with,” the source added to The Sun.

Holly has reportedly already been reaching out for advice and is said to have been quietly reconnecting with close friends such as Emma Bunton, Christine Lampard, and former Celebrity Juice co-star Fearne Cotton.

Stephen Mulhern and Holly Willoughby
Holly Willoughby previously hosted You Bet! with Stephen(Image: ITV)

She has also recently been pictured alongside a strong circle of showbiz pals including Christine, Myleene Klass, and Spice Girls Nicole and Natalie Appleton.

Her break from television followed a deeply traumatic period. Gavin Plumb, who plotted to abduct and murder her, was later jailed for at least 16 years.

Holly then withdrew from public life to focus on her family – Harry, 16, Belle, 14, and Chester, 10 – and only dipped back into screens with Netflix’s Celebrity Bear Hunt alongside Bear Grylls, which was sadly axed after one season.

Now, with her children older and more independent, she is said to be considering a return on her own terms.

Graham Norton will return to screens next week
Holly is hoping to rival the likes of Graham Norton in her new career move(Image: BBC/So Television/PA Media/Matt Crossick)

“This isn’t a new thing – Holly has always had ambitions way beyond the This Morning sofa,” the insider explained. “She can see herself being the first big female primetime chat show host – a bit like a female Jonathan Ross. She’s 45 next year and she’s ready to go solo.”

Willoughby has always been most visible as part of a presenting duo, particularly with Phillip Schofield, but her focus now is on standing alone. She wants the top guests, the best slot, and the chance to finally carve out her own space in evening television.

The Mirror has approached Holly’s representatives for comment on this story.

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READ MORE: Maura Higgins says affordable £10 root spray ‘saves her life’ and covers grey hairs



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‘I worked for King Charles for 21 years and even crashed his honeymoon’

Jack Stooks spent 21 years working at the royal residence of Highgrove House and Gardens

King Charles III’s former gardener of 21 years has revealed what it was really like maintaining the landscape garden at the Royal residence.

Jack Stooks was responsible for Highgrove House and Gardens, one of King Charles and Queen Camilla’s most cherished homes in Gloucestershire.

Speaking on Friday’s This Morning, Jack not only provided gardening tips but also disclosed how he secured his position and recounted the occasion he gatecrashed King Charles’ honeymoon with Queen Camilla.

Jack told presenters Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary: “I went on honeymoon with the King!” prompting Dermot, 52, to ask: “What’s that all about?” whilst Alison, 50, gasped: “You gatecrashed it?”

King Charles III Visits Birmingham
King Charles III’s former gardener of 21 years has opened up(Image: Getty)

Clarifying what had occurred, Jack recalled: “After the wedding at Windsor, I got to do some cut flowers from the King’s garden, from the Queen’s garden and actually take them down to the wedding. They were actually used at their wedding!”, reports the Express.

“After the wedding, there were trees and things that came out of the chapel and I took those up to Scotland, to Birkhall, so I got to plant them with the King, which was amazing!”

Meanwhile, Jack disclosed how he landed his role, saying: “I wrote and asked for a job, there I was at Highgrove!” following an encounter with the King at his aunty and uncle’s residence where he “seemed nice”.

Noting he served as a gardener for 21 years, he continued: “I left last year! [That job] just from a simple letter!”

Jack Stooks on This Morning
Jack Stooks took charge of Highgrove House and Gardens(Image: ITV)

Jack previously shared with the Mirror about the King: “He was very much on the ball all the time. If he came home at the weekend, he would be out in the garden checking what’s been done, what hasn’t been done.”

The King, according to Jack, had a deep affection for his garden and would often make comments indicating his keen interest.

“He would be like, ‘This needs doing, that needs doing’,” Jack remembered. “So, it was really good to know that you’re working for somebody that actually took everything in.

“He was interested in the garden he knew what was going on. So, we all had the sense of satisfaction that we would get something right and know that it was actually being enjoyed and admired by the person who owns it.”

Catch This Morning on weekdays at 10am on ITV and ITV X

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ITV dealt major blow as shows rack up almost 20,000 Ofcom complaints amid cuts

ITV has suffered a major blow after several of its shows received official complaints to Ofcom, with Love Island and This Morning and Celebrity Big Brother amongst them

This Morning
This Morning received hundreds of complaints after Rylan Clark made controversial comments on immigration(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

ITV has suffered a major blow after several of its shows received official complaints. The TV and entertainment experts at OLBG have analysed Ofcom complaints data to reveal the TV shows that have amassed the most viewer complaints in 2025, and several titles from the broadcaster have made the list.

Love Island has hit the top spot, with the ITV2 dating show, which recently crowned Toni Laites and Cach Mercer as its most recent winners, notched up 13,585 complaints.

It wasn’t looking good for its spin-off All Stars either, which is due to return next year for a third series, as the show, which brings back famous faces from the villa, received 2,264 in total.

Love Island
Love Island, which wrapped up its latest series in July, has taken the top spot with nearly 14,000 complaints(Image: Matt Frost/ITV/Shutterstock)

READ MORE: This Morning, Loose Women and Lorraine forced to share new studio amid ITV cutsREAD MORE: Love Island update as Ofcom reveals why it’s dismissing record 14,000 complaints

Celebrity Big Brother also made the list, just a month after Coronation Street favourite Jack P Shepherd was crowned the winner of this year’s edition of the hit reality series. In total,1,224 complained to Ofcom about goings on in the house.

ITV1’s This Morning is a newcomer to the top 10. Towards the end of August, Rylan Clark, who was co-presenting with Josie Gibson, shared his strong opinions on illegal immigration in the UK, which generated 713 Ofcom complaints. Later that day, Rylan Clark took to Instagram to release a statement explaining his stance.

At first, he said: “I find it absolutely insane that all these people are risking their lives coming across the Channel. And when they get here, it does seem, and I think this is why a lot of Labour voters as well are saying there’s something wrong, it feels like, ‘Welcome, come on in’. That’s the narrative we’re being fed.

“Here’s the iPad. Here’s the NHS in reception of your hotel. Here’s three meals a day. Here’s a games room in the hotel. Have a lovely time and welcome.”

Hours later, Rylan took to his Instagram where he wrote: “You can be pro immigration and against illegal routes. You can support trans people and have the utmost respect for women. You can be heterosexual and still support gay rights. The list continues. Stop with this putting everyone in a box exercise and maybe have conversations instead of shouting on twitter!”

In yet another blow for ITV, the recent NTA ceremony, which was hosted by Joel Dommett and saw BBC soap EastEnders scoop up several awards, whilst resident presenters Ant and Dec lost out their usual award to Gary Lineker, received 929 complaints.

Celebrity Big Brother
Celebrity Big Brother has also received hundreds of complaints, just months after Coronation Street star Jack P Shepherd was voted the public’s favourite housemate (Image: Vianney Le Caer/REX/Shutterstock for Big Brother)

Other shows to make the top 10 complaints include Vanessa Feltz’ eponymous Channel 5 programme, a natural rival to Loose Women, thanks to its air time. The chat show received 1,986 complaints in total, whilst GB News’ Headliners notched up 1,347 and Today With Samantha Washington by Sky News received 1,270. Filling out the Top 10 was Martin Daubney (with Alex Armstrong) on GB News, which received 301 complaints from viewers.

The complaints come amid major budget cuts for ITV, which will bring about massive changes to its soaps and Daytime output for 2026.

Kevin Lygo, Managing Director of ITV’s Media and Entertainment Division, announced the big changes in May, and insisted that they will allow the company to ‘deliver’ to the audience whilst also investing in other genres.

He said: “Daytime is a really important part of what we do, and these scheduling and production changes will enable us to continue to deliver a schedule providing viewers with the news, debate and discussion they love from the presenters they know and trust as well generating savings which will allow us to reinvest across the programme budget in other genres.

“These changes also allow us to consolidate our news operations and expand our national, international and regional news output and to build upon our proud history of trusted journalism at a time when our viewers need accurate, unbiased news coverage more than ever.

“I recognise that our plans will have an impact on staff off-screen in our Daytime production teams.” He added: “We will work with ITV Studios and ITN as they manage these changes to produce the shows differently from next year, and support them through this transition. “Daytime has been a core element of ITV’s schedule for over 40 years and these changes will set ITV up to continue to bring viewers award-winning news, views and discussion as we enter our eighth decade.”

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Nineties TV star says career ‘broke my heart’ in emotional confession

A former television presenter opened up about the ups and downs of her showbiz career during an interview on ITV’s This Morning

During Tuesday’s (16 September) episode of This Morning, presenters Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard welcomed former telly star Sarah Cawood onto the sofa.

Sarah, 53, is most famous for presenting the BBC children’s programme Live and Kicking during the 90s. Viewers will also remember her from hosting Top of the Pops and MTV’s Singled Out. She additionally appeared on Loose Women and Richard and Judy.

She stepped away from television work after becoming a mother, welcoming a son in 2012 and a daughter with her husband in 2013.

Sarah joined This Morning following a social media post where she confessed to feeling “lost” and had been battling emotions of “jealousy” upon witnessing others in the entertainment world thriving, reports Wales Online.

Sarah Cawood on This Morning
Sarah Cawood opened up about her TV career on This Morning(Image: ITV)

Ben questioned Sarah regarding the worry and “self-doubt” she faced whilst working as a television presenter, leading her to make a heartbreaking confession.

Sarah confessed, “I had the worst imposter syndrome, but I don’t think that’s unusual. Most people that I’ve spoken to, in fact, I bet you two felt the same, ‘Should I really be here? Am I good enough to be?’

“But, I think that was amplified when all the jobs sort of fell away in the mid-noughties. I was like, ‘Oh, maybe I was just rubbish all along. ‘ It was really hard to deal with.”

She continued by disclosing that her television career “fading away” left her devastated, though she has discovered reasons to feel thankful for its conclusion.

Sarah Cawood and Deidre Sanders
Sarah appeared on This Morning alongside Deidre Sanders(Image: ITV)

“I always say that the fading away of my TV career was worse than any heartbreak I ever had from any boy. Telly broke my heart worse,” Sarah added.

“But, I have had time with my children, and I am super grateful for that. And, you find other stuff to do! You just find a way through. I can’t lie, though, it is nice to be here.”

Sarah revealed how she’d been overwhelmed with messages of support following her candid Instagram post, where she’d confessed to feeling “left out” whilst watching her colleagues reach fresh career heights.

She shared with Ben and Cat how countless people had reached out to say they felt exactly the same, and she’d been kept busy chatting with social media followers going through identical emotions.

This Morning airs on weekdays at 10am on ITV1

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ITV’s You Bet on Tour viewers claim ‘fix’ after Oti Mabuse’s nail-biting race

ITV viewers were left less than impressed by the latest You Bet On Tour episode – and promptly called out Oti Mabuse’s victory.

The game show – which is a re-boot of the 80’s series – initially saw Holly Willoughby, 44, teaming up with Stephen Mulhern to front it as it arrived on the broadcaster.

The You Bet On Tour hosts, Oti Mabuse, Stephen Mulhern, and two other men.

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ITV’s You Bet on Tour viewers claimed a ‘fix’ after Oti Mabuse’s nail-biting raceCredit: X/@stephenmulhern
Screenshot from ITV's You Bet on Tour showing Oti Mabuse and a male contestant reacting to a race.

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Oti was seen celebrating after she was crowned celebrity champion last nightCredit: ITV
Screenshot from ITV's You Bet on Tour showing a rowing race.

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The Cool Runnings row team came out on topCredit: ITV
Screenshot of ITV's You Bet on Tour showing a man reacting during a race.

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Some fans suggested the outcome of Stephen Mulhern’s series was stagedCredit: ITV

Yet the new spin-off – which sees Stephen going solo after Holly quit ahead of a full series commission – features a host of famous faces instead.

It sees ordinary people across the UK take on a host of huge challenges in an attempt to win £5K.

A revolving celebrity panel then place their bets on which team they think will succeed.

On Saturday, Oti Mabuse came out top – yet viewers weren’t convinced.

The drama was started after the final challenge, which saw rowing team Cool Runnings bet that they could complete their 2000 metre challenge quicker than the Olympic Rowers squad.

Strictly champ Oti was pitted against McFly singer Danny Jones and former Olympian Greg Rutherford.

Both Danny and Oti backed red team Cool Runnings – who ultimately came out on top – with the dancer then being crowned the overall celebrity champion of the episode

The outcome sparked an outcry on social media, with one fan posting on X: “Absolute fix #youbet.”

Another wrote: “100% fix.”

One bluntly branded the episode: “Absolutely s**t!!!!!!!!”

First look at Holly Willoughby’s return to You Bet! for new ‘on tour’ series

Another surmised: “THIS is fucking abysmal.”

The Sun has gone to ITV for comment.

ALL CHANGE

Earlier this summer, the full line-up for You Bet On Tour came to light.

Stephen Mulhern’s career so far

The presenter is a mainstay on various ITV shows, but how did he become one of Britain’s most well-known faces?

Stephen first gained an interest in magic and tricks from his father who taught him as a kid.

After performing at Butlins, he became the youngest member of the Magic Circle and even made an appearance on Blue Peter in a piece about Harry Houdini.

His career started in Children’s TV when he presenter the show Finger Tips in 2001.

After four years, he launched Tricky TV on CITV in 2005, which he presented until 2010.

During this time, he was handpicked by bosses to front the ITV2 spin-off for Britain’s Got Talent.

He presented Britain’s Got More Talent until the cancelation of the companion in 2019.

But it’s not all bad news for Stephen who is known for his duties on a number of quiz shows.

In for a Penny, a format originally launched on Ant & Dec‘s Saturday Night Takeaway was launched the same year.

Before, he was chosen by bosses to host Catchphrase in 2013 and has been fronting the show ever since.

Other huge shows he presented for ITV included Big Star’s Little Star, Rolling In It and the reboot of Deal Or No Deal.

He also made regular appearances on This Morning in ‘The Hub’ segment between 2011 and 2014. 

After the Philip Schofield scandal rocked ITV, he was chosen to reunite with his former CITV co-star Holly Willoughby as the host of Dancing on Ice.

It was revealed how Big Brother hosts AJ Odudu and Will Best will appear on the series as will soap star brothers – Ryan and Adam Thomas.

BGT judge Alesha Dixon is also on the bill with BBC Radio 2’s Zoe Ball and Rylan Clark also expected to appear.

Comedian Eddie Kadi, Loose Women favourite Judi Love, Olympian Greg Rutherford and comedians Johnny Vegas and Josh Widdicombe will also play their part.

The series comprises of six full-length episodes as well as an additional Christmas special which was filmed in Cambridgeshire.

The festive episode will air in December and filmed at Kimbolton Castle.

That episode will feature This Morning’s Alison Hammond, comedian Rob Beckett and actor Nick Mohammad.

Meanwhile, speaking about the series, host Stephen said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that You Bet! is back – and this time we’re hitting the road!

“Each week I’ll be joined by a top celeb panel, as our challengers take on some brilliantly bonkers and amazing challenges.

“With the title of You Bet Champion on the line, it’s going to be unbelievable from the start.”

Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern on the set of You Bet! with a contestant.

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The series has taken on a different format since Holly Willoughby’s depatureCredit: PA
Promotional image for the TV show "You Bet!" showing the hosts and various acts.

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Holly will return for a single episode this seasonCredit: ITV

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Stephen Mulhern makes rare admission about late dad after his death

You Bet! host and TV favourite Stephen Mulhern has made a rare admission about his father following his death as he revealed how he gave him his start in magic

Stephen Mulhern has made a rare admission about his father following his death. The magician, 48, was left devastated in November last year when his father Christopher passed away at the age of 76.

In the weeks that followed, coupled with a reaction an anaesthetic, the former Dancing On Ice host collapsed in front of diners at Pizza Express in Sunningdale, Berkshire. It is believed Stephen had the bad reaction to some medication after having a few drinks with his meal. Earlier in the day, he underwent a procedure, for which he was administered the anaesthetic.

Since then, the TV star has remained relatively private about the tragedy, but during an appearance on Friday’s This Morning, he was able to open up about his father when host Dermot O’Leary sensitively reminded him about his dad, who was also a magician, played a major part in kickstarting his career.

READ MORE: ITV You Bet! On Tour viewers say the same thing about Stephen Mulhern’s new showREAD MORE: Stephen Mulhern’s heartbreaking reason for first cry on television in new show with Ant and Dec

This Morning
The TV star was on the sofa to discuss the new series of You Bet! but felt able to open up about his dad when Dermot O’Leary mentioned him(Image: ITV)

Dermot began: “There’s a lovely story, I remember we were eating dinner together and you were telling me about what a great man your dad was. He was almost responsible, wasn’t he?”

Stephen replied: “My dad loved magic and he was a brilliant magician. I started when I was 11 and he would teach me tricks.”

Dermot added: “Wasn’t one of the acts ill or something?” and Stephen, shocked at what the TV star could remember replied: “God, you’ve got a good memory!

“Yeah, so [at Butlin’s] one of the acts didn’t turn up and my dad said, ‘Well my son’s a magician and he’ll fill in for you.’ I got my spot on stage and I feel incredibly lucky.”

Stephen Mulhern
The magician has become a TV favourite over the years and emotionally recalled how it was his dad who got helped get him his start (Image: Getty Images)

Just weeks after losing his father, Stephen was back on screens at the Royal Variety. He took to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall, performing a magic trick in front of His Majesty The King and millions of viewers at home.

Upon completion, the star dedicated the performance to his late father saying: “That was for you dad.”

Following his two-year stint as a Redcoat, Stephen joined The Magic Circle as its youngest-ever member at the age of just 17, and gained an appearance on Blue Peter off the back of this.

After appearing on The Big Big Talent Show with Jonathan Ross in the late 1990s, he was invited to perform at the Royal Variety before becoming a regular on CITV alongside Holly Willoughby.

In more recent years, he has hosted Britain’s Got More Talent and regularly fronts Catchphrase, but due back on the box with a new series of You Bet for ITV1, in which stars such Josie Gibson, Josh Widdecombe and Alesha Dixon bet on of members of the public and their ability to carry out certain tasks.

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Loose Women’s Katie Piper’s admits future is in doubt as show prepares for huge changes

Katie Piper has admitted she is unsure on her Loose Women future as ITV get ready to have a huge daytime television shake up

Katie Piper
Katie Piper doesn’t know what her future holds(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Katie Piper has candidly admitted she doesn’t know what the future holds for her Loose Women role. The presenter is among a number of stars who could see their time on the show cut short due to the impending huge changes on the ITV panel show.

She has admitted she is currently in the dark about her future as the new look Daytime line-up gets ready to launch in January. The changes will see Loose Women switch to just being a seasonal show.

Elsewhere, Good Morning Britain will be extended, chopping Lorraine episodes to just 30 minutes. For the Loose Women panel, they will only be on air seasonally, running for just 30 weeks.

READ MORE: Loose Women star hits out at ‘cruel’ cuts by ITV ahead of schedule changesREAD MORE: Alison Hammond admits relief over This Morning’s NTA win after string of scandals

Katie Piper on Loose Women
Katie Piper on Loose Women(Image: ITV)

Speaking of the switch-up, Katie admitted she doesn’t know what is coming her way. When asked by The Sun about the situation at the National Television Awards, she admitted: “You’d have to ask the producers that. I don’t know.”

The decision to drop the show’s 100-strong audience will also see bosses remove the need for extra security and a warm-up act. But the move is said to have angered a number of the regular panellists who feed off the audience interaction.

The cost-cutting measure also sees This Morning and GMB move away from its current home at BBC Studioworks Television Centre.

Loose Women panel
The show is going to have some big changes(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

And in July, the big changes at Loose Women were explained in full. The iconic lunchtime chat show, which is best known for its bold debates and A-list guests, is reportedly getting ready to cut celebrity interviews completely from January as part of the channel’s sweeping budget cuts.

Instead, it’s said the high-profile bookings will now be prioritised for Lorraine and This Morning. This will leave Loose Women to rely solely on its panel discussions of the day’s news and lifestyle topics.

“Not having guests is a big blow for both the presenters and viewers at home,” an insider revealed at the time. “The celebrity interviews are often one of the highlights of the show and bring a unique energy you don’t get on other programmes. It feels like a strange decision to cut them altogether.”

It will also only air for 30 weeks of the year rather than its usual 52, meaning production time will be slashed by nearly in half.

And speaking of cutting the audience, Nadia Sawalha admitted she was “devastated” by the news. It also meant that f her close friend and warm-up artist Lee Peart has lost his job as a result.

“The audience is so important for the show,” Nadia said. “What a lot of people don’t realise is that we’re self-employed. Every contract is a new contract – I could be let go tomorrow or in five years. It’s brutal.”

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Furious GMB stars ‘mutiny’ after bosses make major change to studio in ‘extreme cost-cutting measure’

GMB stars are fuming at being told they can no longer eat buttered toast in the mornings.

They were among ITV staff warned this week that toasters were banned in their new studios because of health and safety fears.

Editorial use only Mandatory Credit: Photo by Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock (14454120f) Susanna Reid 'Good Morning Britain' TV show, London, UK - 29 Apr 2024

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Staff were told of the change in a meeting attended by presenter Susanna ReidCredit: rex features

In a meeting attended by presenter Susanna Reid — who has previously spoken of her love of peanut butter, apple and toast — staff were also warned they would have no canteen.

A carb-loving insider said: “It is mutiny down at Good Morning Britain HQ.

“Everyone knows breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

“But the new offices’ kitchen is in a basement with no windows or natural light, so smoke from a toaster is a serious health hazard.

“Those on the night shift who prepare the breakfast show are especially cross as they love their morning toast.

“And there is no canteen so everyone will have to start bringing in their Tupperware packed breakfasts.

“And whilst this seems like extreme cost-cutting, everyone was bamboozled to discover a yoga studio was being built on the roof. It’s all very bizarre.”

As part of an ITV cost-cutting overhaul, production on Lorraine, This Morning and Loose Women will move away from BBC Studioworks’ Television Centre from January.

GMB, meanwhile, is being relocated to ITN on Gray’s Inn Road.

Bosses have tried to ban the bread-browning machines before — but backed down after then-host Piers Morgan shamed them on air.

ITV Faces Major Shake-Up: Good Morning Britain Stars Under Threat Amid Cost Cuts

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Alison Hammond admits relief over This Morning’s NTA win after string of scandals

Alison Hammond has expressed her ‘relief’ at This Morning’s win at the NTAs last night after Dermot O’Leary said the show has been ‘through the mill’

Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond
Alison Hammond is ‘relieved’ at This Morning’s big win (Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

Alison Hammond has expressed her ‘relief’ at This Morning’s big win at the National Television Awards last night. The presenter, 50, provides cover on ITV’s flagship magazine show alongside Dermot O’Leary on Fridays and phoned into the programme after the big win to tell regular hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard just how grateful she felt that they had emerged victorious from the public vote.

The programme, which has aired on ITV since 1989, won in the Daytime category, having fought off competition from Scam Interceptors, Loose Women and James Martin’s Saturday Kitchen. The show managed to claim the title back after two years of losing out to The Repair Shop and The Chase.

Alison said: “I’m still buzzing from last night, what a brilliant night. It was just lovely. We hadn’t had it for two years running now and what’s so incredible is when our audience vote for us, we know we’re doing okay. It was just such a relief and we’re just so grateful that everyone picked up the phone and voted for us.”

READ MORE: Phillip Schofield’s full earnings revealed amidst career collapse and family loyaltyREAD MORE: Ant and Dec’s co-star shares pair’s honest thoughts about losing to Gary Lineker at NTAs

The former Big Brother star has also made a name for herself interviewing A-List celebrity guests on the programme and has chatted to superstars like Britney Spears, Ryan Gosling and once ‘married’ The Rock on the show. But just before hanging up, she teased that she was off to interview Barbie star Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell.

Over the last few years, the show has been through numerous lineup changes following the departure of long-serving hosts Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield. The duo, who began presenting together in 2009, first came under fire when they were alleged to have jumped the queue to file past Queen Elizabeth’s coffin in September 2022.

Then, Phillip, who first appeared on the programme in 2002 and initially presented alongside Fern Britton, admitted to an ‘unwise but not illegal’ affair with a younger colleague, and subsequently stepped down from the show and ITV altogether. Holly followed suit soon after security guard Gavin Plumb was charged in connection with a scheme to abduct and kill her.

NTAs 2025
The programme, which has aired on ITV since 1989, won in the Daytime category, having fought off competition from Scam Interceptors, Loose Women and James Martin’s Saturday Kitchen(Image: Getty Images for the NTA’s)

He was found guilty and last year was sentenced to a minimum of 16 years behind bars.

A litany of hosts like Josie Gibson, Craig Doyle, Rochelle Humes and Andi Peters took their place over a period of weeks before Cat and Ben were given the top jobs.

But speaking in the winners room after their victory, former X Factor host Dermot, 52, acknowledged that the show had been ‘through the mill’ over the last few years, reports Manchester Evening News.

He said: “There’s a team that have worked on the show since I’ve started who have had to endure an awful lot of s**t.

Alison Hammond
The former Big Brother star admitted she was ‘still buzzing’ at the win(Image: Getty Images for the NTA’s)

“And they have turned up to work every day with the greatest grace and professionalism and uncertainty, and they’ve never done anything but put their hearts and souls into this job.

“Two and a half hours of live telly every day is quite something, but to endure it under the spotlight of being on the front page of the news. This show holds a mirror up to Britain and it also tries to entertain.”

He also noted that the team was thrilled to win, as he added: “There’s never an arrogance about this. We’re genuinely humbled by it. It means an awful lot, especially for those people who have been through the mill.”

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This Morning chaos as star ‘stuck in traffic’ due to tube strikes

Ben Shephard revealed one of his This Morning co-stars had been left ‘stuck in traffic’ on Tuesday morning, delaying their appearance on the ITV show

This Morning was back on TV screens on Tuesday (9 September) with Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard at the helm of the ITV programme.

The presenting duo brought TV viewers a jam-packed show, featuring guest interviews and all of the latest headlines, as well as a money-saving segment with Martin Lewis, but the star was unfortunately running late to the studio.

Ben and Cat kicked things off by sharing an insight into ITV’s 70th anniversary celebration, which took place on Monday (8 September) evening at Guildhall in London, with all of the broadcaster’s regular stars in attendance.

Ben revealed he and Cat were joined by fellow This Morning stars Dermot O’Leary and Olivia Attwood on their table at the event, as well as Martin.

Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley on This Morning
Ben revealed his co-star was running late due to traffic caused by a tube strike (Image: ITV)

“Dermot was there, of course. Olivia came along, was sitting on our table. We had a really lovely time talking to some of the guests,” Ben said.

He added: “Martin, who is going to be joining us a little bit later on, we think he’s a little bit stuck in traffic.”

Cat then interjected: “It’s the tube strike, isn’t it?” however, Ben hinted there could be another reason behind Martin’s lateness, adding: “He was still there when I left, at half past 10!”

Laughing, Cat then quipped: “Ah, so it’s not the tube strike!”

Thankfully, Martin eventually made it to the ITV studio in time for his This Morning segment, titled September Savings.

He shared a number of money-saving tips with viewers, with a focus on summer holidays. Martin explained how to get money back for delayed flights and ways to get the most out of suncream in a bid to help people save cash.

Martin Lewis
Martin made it to the This Morning studio eventually (Image: ITV)

The financial journalist, who hosts The Martin Lewis Money Show on ITV, had shared an update regarding the tube strike with fans on social media late on Monday evening.

Posting a photograph from a very busy street in the capital, Martin told his followers: “Walking past a bus stop on New Oxford Street, London in the middle of a tube strike.”

Thousands of people faced delays on Monday as the London Tube strike took hold, shutting down nearly all services. The strike continued on Tuesday, enterting its second full day.

Industrial action began on Sunday (7 September) over pay and conditions, and the Tube is not expected to reopen until Friday (12 September).

This Morning airs on ITV1 at 10am on weekdays

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Olivia Attwood reveals This Morning boss’ feedback as hosting future confirmed

Olivia Attwood is back with a new series of ITV2’s Bad Boyfriends, however she made headlines after presenting This Morning for the very first time this summer

Olivia Attwood on This Morning
Olivia Attwood on This Morning(Image: ITV)

Olivia Attwood has opened up about her future on ITV’s This Morning after making her presenting debut this summer. The ex Love Island star is returning to our screens with a new series of Bad Boyfriends on ITV2 this weekend.

However, Olivia became a daytime name earlier this year when she joined the presenting line-up of This Morning over the summer break. Speaking ahead of Bad Boyfriends’s return, Olivia revealed that This Morning bosses were impressed with her performance – and want her back.

“I loved it and luckily they loved me, which was all I was worried about,” she said. “They were happy and I did the slots I had over summer.

Olivia Attwood
Olivia Attwood co-hosts ITV’s This Morning with Dermot O’Leary(Image: ITV)

“From their side and our side, we’d like it to be a repeat thing, but now it’s going back into regular scheduling with Cat and Ben so it’s more just where and when I could pop back in and obviously around the other things I’m doing.”

She added that it was a dream working with Dermot O’Leary, who she hosted alongside in the summer break. “I loved it and Dermot was just the dream to work alongside,” she said.

“Honestly, I have so much respect for him as a broadcaster and it was like surreal, but it was, I really enjoyed it. Hopefully I’ll be able to do a few more.”

It comes after Olivia revealed that she was “told off” by her husband Bradley Dack following her wild Ibiza holiday with friends – including Pete Wicks. “I am wild and I do go to Ibiza every year,” she said.

“I let my hair down and I do get told off by my husband and I’m honest about that. I’m not alone in that. The difference is that other people in our industry just wouldn’t be honest to say that. That is just what happens. I’m just not perfect, Brad’s not perfect, but we make it work.”

The ex Love Islander was pictured looking cosy with friend and KISS co-presenter Pete Wicks while partying on a boat with friends in Ibiza. Speaking about the rumours around their platonic relationship, she said: “I think it’s going to be expected when you have two straight people working together.

“It happened when I first joined TOWIE and Pete and I became very close. We spent a lot of time together. There was a rumour mill spinning back then and I expect it.

“I honestly do know that the way I am with the press and how I survive in my career is that I just don’t deep it that much. Unless it was something really bad that someone was saying about me, I don’t get too invested.

Olivia Attwood’s Bad Boyfriends airs Sunday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.

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Simon Calder reveals ‘gorgeous’ autumn destination where prices are ‘1990s levels’

Simon Calder took to This Morning to reveal an often overlooked destination in Europe that he dubbed ‘absolutely gorgeous’ and a ‘bargain’

Aerial drone view of Spille beach in Albania with pine forest
Albania has beautiful beaches and warm autumnal weather(Image: Nikola Dubivska via Getty Images)

Travel expert Simon Calder has been smitten with one particular destination since the 1980s. Now, this hidden gem is finally gaining recognition – yet Simon claims “prices are really back to kinda 1990s levels.”

Albania is emerging as a must-visit tourism hotspot, but as Simon revealed on ITV’s This Morning in a segment last year, he’s been championing it long before it became trendy. It comes as Wizz Air launches budget £20 flights to the country.

Speaking to presenters Ben Shepherd and Cat Deeley from his accommodation in Durres, Albania, Simon explained he had arrived the previous evening.

He said: “The sun has come out, it’s absolutely gorgeous and it’s one of the most historic and beautiful cities in Albania.”

Simon Calder
Simon Calder is a familiar face on ITV thanks to his travel advice(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Beyond its stunning scenery, Simon highlighted Albania’s “incredible bargains”, reports the Express.

A pizza and pint will set you back roughly £6, whilst his coach journey from the airport to his accommodation – spanning 30 miles – would have cost merely a couple of quid; had he not missed the final departure.

The country currently has sunny weather forecast for the next couple of weeks, with highs between 26-28C daily, allowing you to enjoy the summer for longer.

Simon also claimed Albania’s residents are amongst the most hospitable and warm-hearted you’ll encounter anywhere.

He revealed that once locals realised he’d missed his transport, they immediately rallied around to assist him in securing a taxi – even advising him on fair pricing to prevent any potential overcharging.

Albania, Durres, Durazzo, main square
Durres is full of beautiful places to explore such as the historic town square(Image: Andrea Pistolesi via Getty Images)

He noted that Albania currently sits outside the mainstream package holiday market, though he anticipates tour operators will catch on within the coming years.

Direct flights to Albania depart daily from key UK airports – and with this slice of paradise merely three hours away, it deserves a spot on your travel wishlist. If, like Simon, you fancy staying in Durres, then there’s plenty to keep you occupied.

Durres boasts a colossal Roman amphitheatre featuring preserved mosaics that visitors can explore and marvel at.

TripAdvisor gives this attraction top marks, with one reviewer calling it essential viewing.

One holidaymaker shared: “This place is absolutely wonderful. I noticed that a lot of people take pictures from the outside and do not wish to spend 200 lek which is little less then £2 to go and see it inside. I think it’s their loss and they choose not to support further recovery of this beautiful place.”

The amphitheatre of Duress
The amphitheatre of Duress(Image: Getty)

But if lounging on the beach is more your cup of tea, then Durres delivers on that front too – it’s packed with stretches of pristine white sand and sparkling turquoise waters.

Following a busy day of sightseeing, you’ll have built up quite an appetite, so why not sample some of Durres’s freshly caught seafood?

Gorgeous European train journey between two spectacular cities

‘I visited 17 European cities in a year — skip these 3 for a better time’

Squid, fish and octopus are all on offer and taste incredible thanks to being so freshly hauled in and prepared.

Another mouth-watering speciality is Japrak – minced meat and rice wrapped in vine leaves and slow-cooked to create rich, hearty flavours.

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Cat Deeley ‘anxious’ over This Morning return after being blamed in Patrick Kielty split

TV presenter Cat Deeley is reportedly feeling anxious about her return to This Morning as she faces backlash and blame over her split from husband Patrick Kielty

Cat Deeley anxious about return to This Morning after Patrick Kielty split blame
Cat Deeley anxious about return to This Morning after Patrick Kielty split blame(Image: ITV)

Cat Deeley is preparing for her return to ITV’s This Morning after the summer break, but behind the scenes, she’s reportedly feeling unsettled as she quietly navigates the emotional fallout from her marriage ending.

The 48-year-old presenter announced in July that she and husband Patrick Kielty had separated after 13 years together. The former couple share two young sons, Milo, eight, and James, six, and while they have asked for privacy, speculation around the reasons for their split has continued to swirl.

According to a source close to the star, Cat has no intention of bringing up her personal life on air when she reunites with co-host Ben Shephard. “Cat feels anxious ahead of her first day back after announcing the bombshell news of her split during her break,” the source said.

READ MORE: This Morning’s Cat Deeley returns to social media following Patrick Kielty splitREAD MORE: Josie Gibson told ‘you’re fired’ as she apologises over Rylan

“She has decided NOT to mention the breakdown of her marriage on screen and instead wants to keep the chatty dialogue between her and Ben upbeat and positive for viewers.”

While Cat and Patrick released a united statement to confirm the separation stressing that “there is no other party involved”, those close to her say she has been quietly hurt by the public reaction, particularly around a deeply personal family event.

“She has been hurt that people who don’t even know her have judged her for not going to her mother-in-law’s funeral in March,” the source told The Sun.

Cat and Patrick split after 13 years together
Cat and Patrick split after 13 years together

“Even people from within Patrick’s family and inner circle who don’t know her well have criticised her for that and made out that it was the reason for the split when that couldn’t be further from the truth.”

The suggestion that she’s to blame for the end of the marriage has reportedly been painful.

“Cat is generally a really positive person but it hurts her to have people piling the blame onto her when this is a painful situation for them both,” the insider added.

Despite the pressure, both Cat and Patrick have made it clear that their focus remains on co-parenting their children.

Cat hosts the daytime show with Ben Shephard
Cat hosts the daytime show with Ben Shephard

Their joint statement read: “We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated.

“There is no other party involved. We will continue to be united as loving parents to our children and would therefore kindly ask for our family privacy to be respected. There will be no further comment.”

Cat is expected to keep things light when she returns to her presenting role on This Morning and is reportedly hoping that her personal life and marriage split will not be brought up upon her return to TV screens.

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Ant and Dec land ‘£30 million golden handcuffs’ three-year deal with ITV

Presenting powerhouse Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly have reportedly landed a huge £30 million golden handcuffs deal with ITV which will keep them at the network for three years

Ant and Dec land '£30million golden handcuffs deal with ITV'
Ant and Dec land ‘£30million golden handcuffs deal with ITV’(Image: Getty Images)

Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly have reportedly landed a £30 million golden handcuffs deal with ITV after the channel lost This Morning’s Holly Willoughby. The presenting duo, who have won endless awards over the years for their work, are said to be in talks on a three-year agreement for their shows.

The huge deal would see them continue hosting I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, Britain’s Got Talent, and Limitless Win. An insider claimed the deal with Ant and Dec is a “worthwhile investment” for ITV as they’re widely loved by the public and host “some of the channel’s most successful shows”.

With their 50th birthdays coming up soon, the duo have “double the reason to celebrate”.

READ MORE: Taylor Swift’s eerie marriage prediction resurfaces after Travis Kelce engagementREAD MORE: Netflix drops release date for grisly true crime series as fans say it’s ‘top of the list’

Ant and Dec on red carpet
Ant and Dec are reportedly wrapping up talks for a £30m deal(Image: Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publis)

Speaking to The Sun, a source claimed: “From the ITV execs’ point of view, it also ensures that there aren’t any counter-bids from the streaming giants who are increasingly moving into the light entertainment arena.”

The Mirror have reached out to ITV for comment. It comes after it was reported ITV has been in talks to extend fan-favourite series, I’m A Celeb, until at least 2030.

A TV source recently claimed the broadcaster has plans to secure the series’ Australian jungle location for another five years and if successful, the deal would take the hit reality show up to its landmark 30th series.

Ant and Dec on stage holding microphones
The duo host some of ITV’s biggest shows

The discussions would mark a shift in strategy for ITV, which has previously only signed three-year agreements to use the Murwillumbah site in New South Wales.

Negotiations are now reportedly underway with Australian authorities and the Tweed Shire Council, which must approve any extended filming permits.

A source said to The Sun: “The production team are planning five years in advance, which is a long-term approach they haven’t adopted before. But this is not a done deal with the local authorities, and the negotiations have just started to secure the site.

“They’re not taking anything for granted but are hopeful all parties involved will be able to reach some kind of agreement.”

A spokesperson for Tweed Shire Council confirmed talks are ongoing. She revealed: “They will need to seek permission again – we can’t give open-ended filming permissions to anyone.:

I’m A Celeb, which was won by Danny Jones last year, drew in an average audience of 9.1 million in the previous series, making it 2024’s most-watched entertainment programme.

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Vanessa Feltz has last laugh after quitting This Morning amid brutal ITV cuts

Vanessa Feltz quit This Morning in March this year after 33 years to launch her own rival show on Channel 5

(Image: CHANNEL 5)

Vanessa Feltz has had the last laugh after quitting This Morning. Her Channel 5 lunchtime show has been extended by bosses. While her former colleagues at ITV are facing brutal spending cuts with the budget for shows and staff, Vanessa has been granted more time on air.

The talk show Vanessa was originally planned to air for “six months”, but now the TV presenter has confirmed the programme will run for “eight months at least”.

Vanessa, 63, told the new issue of Woman’s Own magazine: “We’ve just had an extension.

“We were commissioned for six months, but we’re running about eight months at least, there’ll be a Christmas break, and then we’re very much hoping to come back in the new year. We’re thrilled.”

The show – which sees Vanessa have straight-talking discussions on relationships, parenting, gossip, fashion, and other topics with celebrity guests – launched in March.

However, one show that month only raked in 83,000 viewers – a big contrast to rival, ITV’s Loose Women, which drew in 686,000 people.

Vanessa Feltz has shared her delight in having her Channel 5 show extended
Vanessa Feltz has shared her delight in having her Channel 5 show extended (Image: Channel 5)

And it has been reported that bosses at Channel 5 were thinking of ways to “revamp” Vanessa to attract more viewers.

A TV Insider claimed to the magazine: “Bosses have been locked in crisis talks and have been planning ways to immediately revamp the programme if there is to be a chance that it could be saved.”

The show also raised attention when it became the centre of an Ofcom storm after guest Karen Millen said that feeding children past six months breast milk was ‘weird‘ and selfish.’ The designer’s comments led to more than 2000 people complaining with Millen apologising for her comments.

However, Vanessa is proving popular as the show took home the prestigious Talk Show gong at the National Reality TV Awards on July 30 – beating the likes of BBC’s The Graham Norton Show and ITV’s The Jonathan Ross Show.

Reacting to the award, Vanessa told London Beautiful Life Media: “I’m beside myself!”

Ben Shepherd, Cat Deeley, Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary pose in an ITV publicity shot
Ben Shepherd, Cat Deeley, Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary pose up ahead of This Morning’s core presenting team returning from their summer break(Image: ITV)

Asked if she expected to win, the TV star continued: “Definitely not – you must be joking! The show’s only been going since the last week of March, it’s only July!

“And we’re up against all the greats – Graham Norton, Jonathan Ross, Alan Titchmarsh, absolutely everybody! So I was not. I was thinking – I had this knot in my stomach of nerves, and I was trying to give myself a sharp talking to like, ‘Don’t be silly, absolutely don’t stand a chance, the show’s brand-new, we’re never going to,’ and then here it is, we did!

“So, it’s one of those extraordinary moments. I’m shaking, and I’m thrilled to bits, and it’s lovely for the team, and it’s lovely for me, and it’s lovely for the audience. And I’m just delighted.”

Vanessa quit This Morning after 33 years in March this year.

Vanessa told the Daily Star newspaper: “I’ve been on ‘ This Morning ‘ since 1992. It’s been a long time . But I’m now doing my own show and I can’t do both.”

As she made her announcement, Vanessa praised the presenters and crew on This Morning for being “so lovely” about her decision.

She added: “When I told everyone I wouldn’t be able to do the show anymore, they were lovely about it. I heard from Alison Hammond and Holly Willoughby immediately and the bosses were charming. I’ll miss working with them all.”

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