Laura Whitmore is approximately 5 feet 6 ½ inches (168.9 cm). She is a well-known Irish TV presenter, recognized for her roles on “I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here,” MTV Europe, and her participation in season 14 of “Strictly Come Dancing.”
Laura Whitmore looked effortlessly chic in a pastel blue, double-breasted suit with straight-leg trousers featuring an asymmetric cut and studded details, perfectly matching her eye color at the “Renegade Nell” premiere in London on March 26, 2024 (Credit: Matt Crossick / Empics / Pa Images / INSTARimages)
Height Controversy
There has been some discrepancy regarding her height. She claimed to be 5 feet 8 inches tall on her Twitter profile, but on her Spotlight Acting Resume, her height was 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm).
Despite the exact measurement, Laura Whitmore has been admired for her impressive legs. At the 2022 British Academy Film Awards, Laura Whitmore stood tall on the red carpet. Even with Max Harwood’s height of 5 feet 9 ½ inches...
Laura Whitmore looked effortlessly chic in a pastel blue, double-breasted suit with straight-leg trousers featuring an asymmetric cut and studded details, perfectly matching her eye color at the “Renegade Nell” premiere in London on March 26, 2024 (Credit: Matt Crossick / Empics / Pa Images / INSTARimages)
Height Controversy
There has been some discrepancy regarding her height. She claimed to be 5 feet 8 inches tall on her Twitter profile, but on her Spotlight Acting Resume, her height was 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm).
Despite the exact measurement, Laura Whitmore has been admired for her impressive legs. At the 2022 British Academy Film Awards, Laura Whitmore stood tall on the red carpet. Even with Max Harwood’s height of 5 feet 9 ½ inches...
- 4/17/2024
- by Anne De Guia
- Your Next Shoes
Exclusive: The News Agents has parted ways with the company that helped make the show one of the most popular podcasts in the UK.
Deadline understands that Dino Sofos’ production outfit Persephonica is no longer involved in making The News Agents following a behind-the-scenes split on the show owned by UK audio giant Global.
Dubbed the “Prince of podcasts,” Sofos helped lure Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel, and Lewis Goodall away from their BBC presenting roles to the world of daily podcasting in 2022.
He was central to The News Agents‘ launch and heavily involved in establishing the podcast, but sources said he has not been involved in the show’s day-to-day running for some time.
The changes became formal this month, with Persephonica no longer the official production partner of The News Agents. The company’s credit has not appeared on episodes this week.
People familiar with the matter said there...
Deadline understands that Dino Sofos’ production outfit Persephonica is no longer involved in making The News Agents following a behind-the-scenes split on the show owned by UK audio giant Global.
Dubbed the “Prince of podcasts,” Sofos helped lure Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel, and Lewis Goodall away from their BBC presenting roles to the world of daily podcasting in 2022.
He was central to The News Agents‘ launch and heavily involved in establishing the podcast, but sources said he has not been involved in the show’s day-to-day running for some time.
The changes became formal this month, with Persephonica no longer the official production partner of The News Agents. The company’s credit has not appeared on episodes this week.
People familiar with the matter said there...
- 4/5/2024
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Social-first media company, The News Movement today announced that it will be launching its first podcast.
Offering a space for curiosity, exploration and understanding, Tnm’s new podcast Noted, will tackle the issues that are cutting through for a Gen Z audience. From contraception to the cost of living, to disability to drugs, to films and festivals, the series will take a deep dive on the stories that matter. Host, presenter and journalist Mary Mandefield, will take the audience by the hand and invite them on the journey, guiding them through the mind-blowing conversations with experts and real life experiences that will enlighten their world.
Tnm will be partnering with Persephonica, one of the UK's leading podcast production companies, the audio masters behind Ed Balls and George Osborne’s Political Currency, on the podcast series. Persephonica also produces Dua Lipa’s podcast At Your Service for the BBC which has...
Offering a space for curiosity, exploration and understanding, Tnm’s new podcast Noted, will tackle the issues that are cutting through for a Gen Z audience. From contraception to the cost of living, to disability to drugs, to films and festivals, the series will take a deep dive on the stories that matter. Host, presenter and journalist Mary Mandefield, will take the audience by the hand and invite them on the journey, guiding them through the mind-blowing conversations with experts and real life experiences that will enlighten their world.
Tnm will be partnering with Persephonica, one of the UK's leading podcast production companies, the audio masters behind Ed Balls and George Osborne’s Political Currency, on the podcast series. Persephonica also produces Dua Lipa’s podcast At Your Service for the BBC which has...
- 9/21/2023
- Podnews.net
Persephonica has announced that Political Currency with former Chancellor George Osborne and former Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls will be launching on Thursday 14th September. The podcast will take listeners behind the scenes of the biggest political and economic decisions that really affect the nation’s pockets.
George and Ed are two of the UK’s most senior and well-known former politicians. The pair were once fierce adversaries across the despatch box, with things getting heated and personal in the House of Commons and in TV studios. In recent years they have gained a new-found respect for each other’s astute political analysis, appearing as a duo - known as ‘OsBalls’ - on ITV’s election night coverage and Channel 4’s The Andrew Neil Show. However, this won’t just be friendly political chitchat; they’re not afraid to hold each other, and the country’s leaders, to account on the issues that really matter.
George and Ed are two of the UK’s most senior and well-known former politicians. The pair were once fierce adversaries across the despatch box, with things getting heated and personal in the House of Commons and in TV studios. In recent years they have gained a new-found respect for each other’s astute political analysis, appearing as a duo - known as ‘OsBalls’ - on ITV’s election night coverage and Channel 4’s The Andrew Neil Show. However, this won’t just be friendly political chitchat; they’re not afraid to hold each other, and the country’s leaders, to account on the issues that really matter.
- 9/14/2023
- Podnews.net
Exclusive: Persephonica, the producer behind hit daily news podcast The News Agents, has signed with WME in a bid to win more work across the pond.
The indie founded by Brexitcast creator Dino Sofos is also forging a podcast about slavery reparations, in which a former BBC World News anchor whose ancestors were slaveowners heads on a journey with a Labour politician whose ancestors were most likely enslaved by the journalist’s.
Alongside this new untitled podcast, Persephonica is developing a “big slate of shows,” according to Sofos, and has signed with WME’s Alex Bewley, who also reps Gary Lineker’s The Rest is Politics indie Goalhanger.
“Pushing into America is a big thing for us,” Sofos told Deadline. “It’s really important in this industry to have someone like Alex with their finger on the pulse in terms of commissioning and gaps in the market, and linking us...
The indie founded by Brexitcast creator Dino Sofos is also forging a podcast about slavery reparations, in which a former BBC World News anchor whose ancestors were slaveowners heads on a journey with a Labour politician whose ancestors were most likely enslaved by the journalist’s.
Alongside this new untitled podcast, Persephonica is developing a “big slate of shows,” according to Sofos, and has signed with WME’s Alex Bewley, who also reps Gary Lineker’s The Rest is Politics indie Goalhanger.
“Pushing into America is a big thing for us,” Sofos told Deadline. “It’s really important in this industry to have someone like Alex with their finger on the pulse in terms of commissioning and gaps in the market, and linking us...
- 9/11/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Meghan Markle has been in the spotlight since she first started dating Prince Harry back in 2016. And through the years, her reputation has been put into question — mostly by the British press. Meghan has had a number of friends speak highly of her, including her former co-stars on the USA Network show Suits, which has helped to mitigate some of the unwarranted negative opinions.
In a recent interview, one Suits co-star was asked about what it was like working so closely with Meghan, and rather than give the details on the duchess’ life before her massive, he refused to speak about her.
Meghan Markle | AP Photo/Pool/Kirsty Wigglesworth Meghan Markle’s former co-star Max Beesley refused to divulge details about the duchess
If there is one group to have Meghan’s back, it’s her former Suits co-stars. Many of Meghan’s former co-stars attended her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry,...
In a recent interview, one Suits co-star was asked about what it was like working so closely with Meghan, and rather than give the details on the duchess’ life before her massive, he refused to speak about her.
Meghan Markle | AP Photo/Pool/Kirsty Wigglesworth Meghan Markle’s former co-star Max Beesley refused to divulge details about the duchess
If there is one group to have Meghan’s back, it’s her former Suits co-stars. Many of Meghan’s former co-stars attended her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry,...
- 7/5/2023
- by Julia Mullaney
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Two of the UK’s most senior and well-known former politicians today announced they are launching a major new weekly podcast. Together, they will bring their wealth of economics knowledge, Westminster experience and different perspectives to audiences around the world.
With a General Election looming and the UK economy confronting persistent inflation, rocketing mortgage costs and structural changes following the pandemic and Brexit, Ed Balls and George Osborne will tackle the issues that will determine how Britain votes and the stories really affecting people’s pockets.
The podcast will take listeners inside Downing Street and the Treasury, to the city and to newsrooms - Ed and George will explain how politics really works and how decisions are reached.
The duo’s unparalleled experience of Number 11 will provide accessible and compelling economic analysis missing in the current podcast landscape, while holding the country’s leaders to account over their decisions.
Ed...
With a General Election looming and the UK economy confronting persistent inflation, rocketing mortgage costs and structural changes following the pandemic and Brexit, Ed Balls and George Osborne will tackle the issues that will determine how Britain votes and the stories really affecting people’s pockets.
The podcast will take listeners inside Downing Street and the Treasury, to the city and to newsrooms - Ed and George will explain how politics really works and how decisions are reached.
The duo’s unparalleled experience of Number 11 will provide accessible and compelling economic analysis missing in the current podcast landscape, while holding the country’s leaders to account over their decisions.
Ed...
- 6/29/2023
- Podnews.net
Veteran broadcaster Jon Snow has said that Margaret Thatcher was a “joy” to interview, despite his political differences with her.
The former Channel 4 News presenter interviewed the divisive late prime minister numerous times throughout his early career in journalism.
Speaking with Ed Balls and Susanna Reid on Wednesday’s episode of Good Morning Britain, Snow reflected on his experiences with Thatcher.
Addressing Balls, Snow said: “I liked interviewing politicians, because you had a joust, and people like you had – forgive me for using the word – the balls to give as good as you got. And so it was a real joust. And I think you got to some semblance of truth.”
Reid then asked: “What about Margaret Thatcher?”
“She was a joy, an absolute joy,” Snow responded. “I mean, I can now confess that I wasn’t necessarily politically aligned with her. But as a journalist – first of all,...
The former Channel 4 News presenter interviewed the divisive late prime minister numerous times throughout his early career in journalism.
Speaking with Ed Balls and Susanna Reid on Wednesday’s episode of Good Morning Britain, Snow reflected on his experiences with Thatcher.
Addressing Balls, Snow said: “I liked interviewing politicians, because you had a joust, and people like you had – forgive me for using the word – the balls to give as good as you got. And so it was a real joust. And I think you got to some semblance of truth.”
Reid then asked: “What about Margaret Thatcher?”
“She was a joy, an absolute joy,” Snow responded. “I mean, I can now confess that I wasn’t necessarily politically aligned with her. But as a journalist – first of all,...
- 3/1/2023
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
Lorraine Kelly did not appear on Wednesday’s instalment of her morning talk show after falling ill.
The ITV presenter confirmed she had an unknown illness and had to be sent home before appearing on air this morning, with Ranvir Singh coming in to replace her.
The 63-year-old confirmed her absence this morning in a tweet, writing that she had fallen ill with a “hideous bug”.
“When you have to be sent home from work early in the morning because you are suddenly attacked by a hideous bug and were looking forward to interviewing @adamlambert,” she wrote.
“Beyond disappointed but imagine if I had infected him !!!!!!”
When the show started, Singh was ready to present the show in Kelly’s place but said she had a rushed start to her day.
She revealed to Good Morning Britain co-hosts Kate Garraway and Ed Balls: “I got a call from the...
The ITV presenter confirmed she had an unknown illness and had to be sent home before appearing on air this morning, with Ranvir Singh coming in to replace her.
The 63-year-old confirmed her absence this morning in a tweet, writing that she had fallen ill with a “hideous bug”.
“When you have to be sent home from work early in the morning because you are suddenly attacked by a hideous bug and were looking forward to interviewing @adamlambert,” she wrote.
“Beyond disappointed but imagine if I had infected him !!!!!!”
When the show started, Singh was ready to present the show in Kelly’s place but said she had a rushed start to her day.
She revealed to Good Morning Britain co-hosts Kate Garraway and Ed Balls: “I got a call from the...
- 2/22/2023
- by Ellie Muir
- The Independent - TV
Susanna Reid left the Good Morning Britain studio to comfort the mother of Levi Davis following an interview about the missing X Factor star.
Rugby union player Levi, who appeared on Celebrity X Factor in 2019, was last seen on 29 October exiting the Old Irish Pub on La Rambla in Barcelona, Spain. He had left Ibiza hours earlier.
On Wednesday (25 January), the 24-year-old’s mother Julie appeared on Gmb where she tearfully appealed for help in the search for her son.
“Before he left, there was a message – I don’t know, maybe [from] powers from up above – that said to me, ‘Give him a hug because you just don’t know if this is going to be your last,’” Julie said, before stopping to hold back tears.
Reid reached across the table and squeezed the guests’s hand, telling her: ‘What’s encouraging about [reporter Nick Dixon] being out there is he...
Rugby union player Levi, who appeared on Celebrity X Factor in 2019, was last seen on 29 October exiting the Old Irish Pub on La Rambla in Barcelona, Spain. He had left Ibiza hours earlier.
On Wednesday (25 January), the 24-year-old’s mother Julie appeared on Gmb where she tearfully appealed for help in the search for her son.
“Before he left, there was a message – I don’t know, maybe [from] powers from up above – that said to me, ‘Give him a hug because you just don’t know if this is going to be your last,’” Julie said, before stopping to hold back tears.
Reid reached across the table and squeezed the guests’s hand, telling her: ‘What’s encouraging about [reporter Nick Dixon] being out there is he...
- 1/25/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Ed Balls has put himself forward for a “middle-aged” Love Island.
The ITV2 reality dating show iw currently airing its winter season in South Africa. Reports have now emerged that it could be rebooted into a spin-off for contestants who are “middle-aged” parents.
Metro.co.uk has obtained what appears to be an ITV casting call aimed at parents. The advertisement reportedly read: “ITV1 are looking for vibrant single parents from across the UK who are in search of love, for a brand new dating show!”
The Independent has contacted ITV for comment.
The original format of the reality series features contestants between the age of 18 and their late twenties, with few stars from past series being over the age of 30. Now, celebrities and viewers are calling for those who are aged 40 and above to be given an opportunity to enter the villa.
Speaking on Monday’s episode of Good Morning Britain...
The ITV2 reality dating show iw currently airing its winter season in South Africa. Reports have now emerged that it could be rebooted into a spin-off for contestants who are “middle-aged” parents.
Metro.co.uk has obtained what appears to be an ITV casting call aimed at parents. The advertisement reportedly read: “ITV1 are looking for vibrant single parents from across the UK who are in search of love, for a brand new dating show!”
The Independent has contacted ITV for comment.
The original format of the reality series features contestants between the age of 18 and their late twenties, with few stars from past series being over the age of 30. Now, celebrities and viewers are calling for those who are aged 40 and above to be given an opportunity to enter the villa.
Speaking on Monday’s episode of Good Morning Britain...
- 1/24/2023
- by Ellie Muir
- The Independent - TV
‘This just breaks my f***ing heart’: Ed Sheeran releases poignant freestyle tribute to Jamal Edwards
Ed Sheeran has honoured his late friend Jamal Edwards with a 64-bar freestyle for Sbtv.
On Thursday (19 January), the 31-year-old singer filmed a freestyle track inside an empty Stamford Bridge to pay tribute to Edwards.
Edwards died at the age of 31 in February last year. The cause of his death was a cardiac arrest after using cocaine and drinking alcohol.
He gained fame as the chief executive of Sbtv, which helped to launch the careers of chart-topping artists including Sheeran, Stormzy and Jessie J.
In the tribute track, Sheeran sings: “Therapy sessions, digging deep in depression / I got a life full of blessings, but this just breaks my f***ing heart.
“People find and stop me in the street and say it’s terrible / But they don’t know you like I knew you and they never will.”
In the song, Sheeran also expresses his sadness about Edwards not being...
On Thursday (19 January), the 31-year-old singer filmed a freestyle track inside an empty Stamford Bridge to pay tribute to Edwards.
Edwards died at the age of 31 in February last year. The cause of his death was a cardiac arrest after using cocaine and drinking alcohol.
He gained fame as the chief executive of Sbtv, which helped to launch the careers of chart-topping artists including Sheeran, Stormzy and Jessie J.
In the tribute track, Sheeran sings: “Therapy sessions, digging deep in depression / I got a life full of blessings, but this just breaks my f***ing heart.
“People find and stop me in the street and say it’s terrible / But they don’t know you like I knew you and they never will.”
In the song, Sheeran also expresses his sadness about Edwards not being...
- 1/20/2023
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - Music
It may be chilly outside, but it’s all heat over on ITV2 as Love Island is back on our screens once again.
The popular dating reality show is back for its ninth season, and its second-ever winter run, set in South Africa.
This year, Maya Jama has taken over hosting duties after Laura Whitmore’s departure at the end of season eight last summer.
But, it’s not all change – as usual, there are a selection of hopeful romantics who join the show throughout the season. Nicknamed “bombshells”, these later arrivals always bring an additional level of excitement to proceedings by mixing up the couple dynamics.
On day three (Wednesday 18 January), Essex boy David enters the villa alongside model Zara – but who is he?
What are David’s vital statistics?
David is 24 years old and lives in Essex. He works as a money adviser and he says his loved...
The popular dating reality show is back for its ninth season, and its second-ever winter run, set in South Africa.
This year, Maya Jama has taken over hosting duties after Laura Whitmore’s departure at the end of season eight last summer.
But, it’s not all change – as usual, there are a selection of hopeful romantics who join the show throughout the season. Nicknamed “bombshells”, these later arrivals always bring an additional level of excitement to proceedings by mixing up the couple dynamics.
On day three (Wednesday 18 January), Essex boy David enters the villa alongside model Zara – but who is he?
What are David’s vital statistics?
David is 24 years old and lives in Essex. He works as a money adviser and he says his loved...
- 1/18/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
Iain Stirling has shut down a question from Ed Balls about new Love Island host Maya Jama.
Stirling appeared as a guest on Good Morning Britain on Wednesday (18 January) to speak about the current series of Love Island.
The Scottish comedian and presenter has provided the voice-over for the hit ITV2 reality series since 2015.
Love Island returned for its ninth season on Monday (16 January) with a new group of singles headed to South Africa in the hopes of finding love. You can read The Independent’s three-star review of the first episode here.
Jama made her debut as the new host of the series, taking over from former host Laura Whitmore, who is married to Stirling.
Gmb hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls questioned Stirling on his thoughts about Jama as the show’s new presenter.
Balls suggestively asked the comedian: “You haven’t said to her, ‘Can you come over for a chat?...
Stirling appeared as a guest on Good Morning Britain on Wednesday (18 January) to speak about the current series of Love Island.
The Scottish comedian and presenter has provided the voice-over for the hit ITV2 reality series since 2015.
Love Island returned for its ninth season on Monday (16 January) with a new group of singles headed to South Africa in the hopes of finding love. You can read The Independent’s three-star review of the first episode here.
Jama made her debut as the new host of the series, taking over from former host Laura Whitmore, who is married to Stirling.
Gmb hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls questioned Stirling on his thoughts about Jama as the show’s new presenter.
Balls suggestively asked the comedian: “You haven’t said to her, ‘Can you come over for a chat?...
- 1/18/2023
- by Annabel Nugent
- The Independent - TV
Love Island is back for its second-ever winter edition.
The hit ITV dating reality show is due to return to screens on 16 January, with Maya Jama hosting for the first time.
This year, a new group of singles will arrive in South Africa in the hopes of replicating their success – and, of course, finding love.
One of the contestants is Tanya Manhenga, a biomedical student and social media star from Liverpool.
Find out more about Tanya below.
What does Tanya do?
Tanya is a biomedical student and a social media influencer with over 20k followers. She’s previously worked with fashion brands like Boohoo and Ego footwear.
Tanya has Vitiligo, which is a skin pigmentation condition. She says, however, that “you may not even notice it”. Tanya said she doesn’t care about covering up the pigmentation on her lip and in her hair, adding that “it’s a vibe...
The hit ITV dating reality show is due to return to screens on 16 January, with Maya Jama hosting for the first time.
This year, a new group of singles will arrive in South Africa in the hopes of replicating their success – and, of course, finding love.
One of the contestants is Tanya Manhenga, a biomedical student and social media star from Liverpool.
Find out more about Tanya below.
What does Tanya do?
Tanya is a biomedical student and a social media influencer with over 20k followers. She’s previously worked with fashion brands like Boohoo and Ego footwear.
Tanya has Vitiligo, which is a skin pigmentation condition. She says, however, that “you may not even notice it”. Tanya said she doesn’t care about covering up the pigmentation on her lip and in her hair, adding that “it’s a vibe...
- 1/16/2023
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - TV
Love Island fever is here once again thanks to the imminent arrival of a winter series hosted by Maya Jama.
The contestants entering the South African villa this year include the show’s first-ever partially sighted contestant and an extra from the sitcom Benidorm.
Joining them is 27-year-old ring girl and actor Olivia Hawkins.
Hawkins can be seen in the background of Daniel Craig’s final James Bond film, No Time to Die.
Find out more about Love Island contestant Olivia Hawkins below.
Why has Olivia joined Love Island and what will she bring to the villa?
In short, Olivia has joined the show because she has never been in a relationship before.
She told ITV: “I’m 27 and I’ve never been in a relationship so I feel like now I’m really ready to settle down and hopefully find the love of my life.
Olivia said that...
The contestants entering the South African villa this year include the show’s first-ever partially sighted contestant and an extra from the sitcom Benidorm.
Joining them is 27-year-old ring girl and actor Olivia Hawkins.
Hawkins can be seen in the background of Daniel Craig’s final James Bond film, No Time to Die.
Find out more about Love Island contestant Olivia Hawkins below.
Why has Olivia joined Love Island and what will she bring to the villa?
In short, Olivia has joined the show because she has never been in a relationship before.
She told ITV: “I’m 27 and I’ve never been in a relationship so I feel like now I’m really ready to settle down and hopefully find the love of my life.
Olivia said that...
- 1/14/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Love Island fever is here once again, thanks to a new winter series that will be hosted by Maya Jama.
The contestants entering the South African villa this year include a former body double for Emma Watson and an extra from the sitcom Benidorm.
Joining them is 25-year-old financial advisor Ron Hall.
Ron will be the show’s first ever partially sighted contestant.
Find out more about Love Island contestant Ron Hall below.
Why has Ron joined Love Island and what will he bring to the villa?
Ron, who is from Essex, said that he wants to bring “fun and charisma” to the series, adding that he hopes to “have good times and make memories”.
He described himself as “genuine, caring and a nice person”, which he said “you don’t find these days”.
Ron also revealed that he is partially sighted, telling ITV: “It’s added to my character.
The contestants entering the South African villa this year include a former body double for Emma Watson and an extra from the sitcom Benidorm.
Joining them is 25-year-old financial advisor Ron Hall.
Ron will be the show’s first ever partially sighted contestant.
Find out more about Love Island contestant Ron Hall below.
Why has Ron joined Love Island and what will he bring to the villa?
Ron, who is from Essex, said that he wants to bring “fun and charisma” to the series, adding that he hopes to “have good times and make memories”.
He described himself as “genuine, caring and a nice person”, which he said “you don’t find these days”.
Ron also revealed that he is partially sighted, telling ITV: “It’s added to my character.
- 1/14/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Love Island is back for its second-ever South Africa winter season, bringing sunshine to the gloomy UK this January.
ITV’s winter edition returns Monday 16 January, welcoming Maya Jama as the show’s brand new host, who takes over for Laura Whitmore.
Ahead of its premiere, the series has revealed the first 10 contestants, which include the show’s first partially sighted star, a contestant with vitiligo, and a former body double for Emma Watson.
Among the 2023 newcomers is Haris Namani, the second youngest contestant on the series.
Who is Haris Namani?
Haris Namani is a 21-year-old TV salesman from Doncaster. His celebrity crush is Jennifer Lopez and he’s unusually good at yoga and ping pong.
What will Haris bring to the villa?
“I’m different, I’m a unique guy, the way I act; confident, not awkward, especially with the girls,” he said. “I’m friendly, I’m very respectful as well.
ITV’s winter edition returns Monday 16 January, welcoming Maya Jama as the show’s brand new host, who takes over for Laura Whitmore.
Ahead of its premiere, the series has revealed the first 10 contestants, which include the show’s first partially sighted star, a contestant with vitiligo, and a former body double for Emma Watson.
Among the 2023 newcomers is Haris Namani, the second youngest contestant on the series.
Who is Haris Namani?
Haris Namani is a 21-year-old TV salesman from Doncaster. His celebrity crush is Jennifer Lopez and he’s unusually good at yoga and ping pong.
What will Haris bring to the villa?
“I’m different, I’m a unique guy, the way I act; confident, not awkward, especially with the girls,” he said. “I’m friendly, I’m very respectful as well.
- 1/13/2023
- by Ellie Muir
- The Independent - TV
Love Island is returning to our screens with a brand new series to brighten the winter days.
The ITV2 dating show is back this January for the first series filmed in South Africa since the pandemic.
Among this series’ group of islanders are a contestant with Vitiligo, the show’s first partially sighted star, and a body double who once stood in for Emma Watson.
Among the contestants is Anna-May Robey, a payroll administrator. You can find out more about her below…
Who is Anna-May?
Hailing from Swansea, 20-year-old Anna-May is the youngest contestant in the original Love Island line-up this year.
The payroll administrator says she’s “funny, energetic and spontaneous” and will bring lots of fun to the villa. “I’m always running around singing and screaming,” she says. “My parents are always like, ‘Shut up!’”
What is Anna-May looking for in the villa?
Anna-May says she hopes...
The ITV2 dating show is back this January for the first series filmed in South Africa since the pandemic.
Among this series’ group of islanders are a contestant with Vitiligo, the show’s first partially sighted star, and a body double who once stood in for Emma Watson.
Among the contestants is Anna-May Robey, a payroll administrator. You can find out more about her below…
Who is Anna-May?
Hailing from Swansea, 20-year-old Anna-May is the youngest contestant in the original Love Island line-up this year.
The payroll administrator says she’s “funny, energetic and spontaneous” and will bring lots of fun to the villa. “I’m always running around singing and screaming,” she says. “My parents are always like, ‘Shut up!’”
What is Anna-May looking for in the villa?
Anna-May says she hopes...
- 1/13/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Love Island’s second-ever winter season is back.
Ahead of the show’s return, which will be hosted by Maya Jama, ITV has revealed the first 10 contestants heading to South Africa.
One of the contestants is Kai Fagan, who is a science and Pe teacher, as well as a semi-professional rugby player for Burnage Rfc.
Find more information about Kai below.
What does Kai do?
Kai, 24, is a science and Pe teacher, though he also plays semi-professional rugby for Burnage Rfc. He hails from Manchester.
The contestant has previously played rugby 7s for Jamaica. He has three different degrees and went to three different universities.
What is Kai looking for on ‘Love Island’?
Kai said he has “quite high expectations” and does not committ to anyone unless he is “absolutely buzzing” over them.
Kai says his friends would describe him as “chilled, caring, very impulsive and a good guy”, adding...
Ahead of the show’s return, which will be hosted by Maya Jama, ITV has revealed the first 10 contestants heading to South Africa.
One of the contestants is Kai Fagan, who is a science and Pe teacher, as well as a semi-professional rugby player for Burnage Rfc.
Find more information about Kai below.
What does Kai do?
Kai, 24, is a science and Pe teacher, though he also plays semi-professional rugby for Burnage Rfc. He hails from Manchester.
The contestant has previously played rugby 7s for Jamaica. He has three different degrees and went to three different universities.
What is Kai looking for on ‘Love Island’?
Kai said he has “quite high expectations” and does not committ to anyone unless he is “absolutely buzzing” over them.
Kai says his friends would describe him as “chilled, caring, very impulsive and a good guy”, adding...
- 1/13/2023
- by Peony Hirwani
- The Independent - TV
Love Island: Who is Lana Jenkins? Meet the make-up artist who used to date I’m a Celeb’s Owen Warner
Love Island is back in South Africa for its second ever winter edition, with a whole new batch of hopefuls competing to find someone who’s “100 per cent their type on paper”.
The contestants entering the villa this year include the show’s first partially sighted star, a contestant with Vitiligo, and one who has been a body double for Emma Watson.
Joining them is Lana Jenkins, a 25-year-old make-up artist from Luton. Find out more about Lana, from her Instagram profile to her claim to fame, below…
What is Lana’s job?
Lana is a make-up artist, who has worked with stars such as actor Michelle Keegan. Ahead of entering the villa, she told ITV: “In my work as a make-up artist I’ve worked with lots of celebrities. Also, when I was six years old I used to live in Spain and I was in an episode of Benidorm as an extra.
The contestants entering the villa this year include the show’s first partially sighted star, a contestant with Vitiligo, and one who has been a body double for Emma Watson.
Joining them is Lana Jenkins, a 25-year-old make-up artist from Luton. Find out more about Lana, from her Instagram profile to her claim to fame, below…
What is Lana’s job?
Lana is a make-up artist, who has worked with stars such as actor Michelle Keegan. Ahead of entering the villa, she told ITV: “In my work as a make-up artist I’ve worked with lots of celebrities. Also, when I was six years old I used to live in Spain and I was in an episode of Benidorm as an extra.
- 1/12/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Good Morning Britain is welcoming a new host this week, with broadcaster Gordon Smart joining the show this Thursday (29 December).
Smart, 42, is one of a roster of presenters who are taking over hosting duties while regulars Kate Garraway, Ben Shephard and Susanna Reid are having time off over Christmas.
The journalist, editor and broadcaster will present alongside Charlotte Hawkins on Thursday 29 and Friday 30 December.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the amazing stable of talent, in front and behind the camera, on Good Morning Britain,” he said.
“So many of the issues facing the country right now are close to home and I’m relishing the chance to join the debate.”
Smart’s background includes being the youngest editor of The Sun’s Bizarre Showbiz column, when he was 26. He later edited The Scottish Sun and was deputy editor at the National Edition in 2016.
He has also hosted shows on talkSPORT,...
Smart, 42, is one of a roster of presenters who are taking over hosting duties while regulars Kate Garraway, Ben Shephard and Susanna Reid are having time off over Christmas.
The journalist, editor and broadcaster will present alongside Charlotte Hawkins on Thursday 29 and Friday 30 December.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the amazing stable of talent, in front and behind the camera, on Good Morning Britain,” he said.
“So many of the issues facing the country right now are close to home and I’m relishing the chance to join the debate.”
Smart’s background includes being the youngest editor of The Sun’s Bizarre Showbiz column, when he was 26. He later edited The Scottish Sun and was deputy editor at the National Edition in 2016.
He has also hosted shows on talkSPORT,...
- 12/27/2022
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
England European Cup-winning footballer Jill Scott won ITV‘s I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! last night but the nation’s eyes were trained on just one contestant, MP Matt Hancock, who came third in a final watched by a peak of 11.3M viewers.
Ratings data that has just come in shows the finale was one of the most watched UK TV broadcasts of this year so far, growing by more than 3M on last year’s final, which was shot in Wales not Australia. An average 10.4M watched the show across its 9 p.m.-10.30 p.m. GMT (1 p.m. – 2.30 p.m. Pst) runtime, with a peak of 11.3M.
Former Health Secretary Hancock’s controversial decision to partake in the show, which saw him immediately lose the Conservative Party whip, divided living rooms around the country, with some believing they were seeing a ‘personal’ side to...
Ratings data that has just come in shows the finale was one of the most watched UK TV broadcasts of this year so far, growing by more than 3M on last year’s final, which was shot in Wales not Australia. An average 10.4M watched the show across its 9 p.m.-10.30 p.m. GMT (1 p.m. – 2.30 p.m. Pst) runtime, with a peak of 11.3M.
Former Health Secretary Hancock’s controversial decision to partake in the show, which saw him immediately lose the Conservative Party whip, divided living rooms around the country, with some believing they were seeing a ‘personal’ side to...
- 11/28/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Picture the scene. It’s the end of November. Matt Hancock has been named king of the jungle. After a month of tears, torture and tepid banter, he has obliterated all competition. Boy George has made zero impact. Mike Tindall is in the dust. Jill Scott is no one. The public have voted to humiliate the former health secretary, and he has eaten it up. Literally: he has eaten every species of testicle. But at some point during this process there came a moment when the tide started to turn. When, exactly, is hard to say: when he taught Chris Moyles how to do parkour? When he played truth or dare round the campfire and admitted he thinks Dominic Cummings is a “gimp”? Or when, on his ninth bushtucker trial, he was finally broken, weeping into a bath of eels? No one knows. But this much is true: he may have lost the Tory whip,...
- 11/17/2022
- by Jessie Thompson
- The Independent - TV
It says a lot that Katya Jones winning Strictly Come Dancing in 2017 is arguably the least interesting thing to happen to her since joining the show. Along the way, the Russian dancer has faced scandals, divorce and arguments with her partners, while honing a skill for polishing untrained celebrities into dance diamonds. Where certain pros who may now sit on the judging panel would get lumped with a “joke” contestant like, off the top of my head, Ann Widdecombe, and accept that stereotype, giving them unchallenging choreography and even, say, dragging them around the floor, Jones never does. For her, there are no “joke” contestants. Not Ed Balls. Not Tony Adams.
On day one of her first season in 2017, the pro was dropped in at the deep end. Partnered with Balls, a former shadow chancellor famous for, among other things, tweeting the words “Ed Balls” with no explanation, she chose to swim.
On day one of her first season in 2017, the pro was dropped in at the deep end. Partnered with Balls, a former shadow chancellor famous for, among other things, tweeting the words “Ed Balls” with no explanation, she chose to swim.
- 11/12/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Picture the scene. It’s four weeks from now. Matt Hancock has been named king of the jungle. After a month of tears, torture and tepid banter, he has obliterated all competition. Boy George has made zero impact. Mike Tindall is in the dust. Jill Scott is no one. The public have voted to humiliate the former health secretary, and he has eaten it up. Literally: he has eaten every species of testicle. But at some point during this process there came a moment when the tide started to turn. When, exactly, is hard to say: when he taught Chris Moyles how to do parkour? When he played truth or dare round the campfire and admitted he thinks Dominic Cummings is a “gimp”? Or when, on his ninth bushtucker trial, he was finally broken, weeping into a bath of eels? No one knows. But this much is true: he may have lost the Tory whip,...
- 11/10/2022
- by Jessie Thompson
- The Independent - TV
Susanna Reid has chided Matt Hancock for already breaking an I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! rule.
The Good Morning Britain presenter kicked off Monday’s episode of the ITV daytime show (7 November) by addressing the return of the reality series the previous night.
Disgraced politician Hancock was confirmed to be a part of this year’s line-up last week, but he was absent from the launch episode, which was watched by an average of nine million households.
Producers will send him into the Australian jungle in a few days alongside comedian Seann Walsh.
“I think a lot of people last night were wondering where was Matt Hancock,” Reid said to co-host Ed Balls on Gmb. Balls replied: “Well, I know he’s in quarantine, but apparently on his phone.”
The contestants are not usually allowed to have personal items before entering the camp and, Reid, unimpressed, said: “That’s not allowed!
The Good Morning Britain presenter kicked off Monday’s episode of the ITV daytime show (7 November) by addressing the return of the reality series the previous night.
Disgraced politician Hancock was confirmed to be a part of this year’s line-up last week, but he was absent from the launch episode, which was watched by an average of nine million households.
Producers will send him into the Australian jungle in a few days alongside comedian Seann Walsh.
“I think a lot of people last night were wondering where was Matt Hancock,” Reid said to co-host Ed Balls on Gmb. Balls replied: “Well, I know he’s in quarantine, but apparently on his phone.”
The contestants are not usually allowed to have personal items before entering the camp and, Reid, unimpressed, said: “That’s not allowed!
- 11/7/2022
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Susanna Reid was forced to apologise after a Good Morning Britain guest called Matt Hancock a “d***head”.
During Wednesday (2 November) morning’s episode of the ITV show, hosts Reid and Ed Balls discussed the news that the former health secretary Matt Hancock will be heading to the jungle to appear on I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!.
During a heated discussion on the topic, right-wing journalist Andrew Pierce, who works for The Daily Mail, made the comment about Hancock to Reid’s dismay.
“He’s a d***head... I can say that, can’t I?” Pierce said.
Reid jumped in: “No! Apologies, everyone.”
However, many viewers watching the moment seemed amused by the outburst.
On Twitter, one commenter wrote: “Amazing moment on @Gmb when @toryboypierce calls Matt Hancock a ‘d***head’.”
“Andrew Pierce had gone up in my estimation for calling Matt Hancock a d***head live on TV,...
During Wednesday (2 November) morning’s episode of the ITV show, hosts Reid and Ed Balls discussed the news that the former health secretary Matt Hancock will be heading to the jungle to appear on I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!.
During a heated discussion on the topic, right-wing journalist Andrew Pierce, who works for The Daily Mail, made the comment about Hancock to Reid’s dismay.
“He’s a d***head... I can say that, can’t I?” Pierce said.
Reid jumped in: “No! Apologies, everyone.”
However, many viewers watching the moment seemed amused by the outburst.
On Twitter, one commenter wrote: “Amazing moment on @Gmb when @toryboypierce calls Matt Hancock a ‘d***head’.”
“Andrew Pierce had gone up in my estimation for calling Matt Hancock a d***head live on TV,...
- 11/2/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
First-Look Image Of Adam Driver In Michael Mann’s ‘Ferrari’
On Friday the producers of Michael Mann’s upcoming biopic Ferrari shared first-look images from the film’s set, including Adam Driver in costume as Enzo Ferrari. Check out the image above. The film is shooting in Italy and features Driver alongside Penélope Cruz, who plays Laura Ferrari, and Shailene Woodley as Lina Lardi. The cast is rounded out by Patrick Dempsey, Jack O’Connell, Peter Collins, Sarah Gadon, Linda Christian and Gabriel Leone. Michael Mann directs from a script he co-wrote with Troy Kennedy Martin (The Italian Job). Set during the summer of 1957, the film follows ex-racecar driver Ferrari as bankruptcy stalks the company he and his wife, Laura, built from nothing ten years earlier. Their tempestuous marriage struggles with the mourning for one son and the acknowledgment of another. He decides to counter his losses by rolling the dice...
On Friday the producers of Michael Mann’s upcoming biopic Ferrari shared first-look images from the film’s set, including Adam Driver in costume as Enzo Ferrari. Check out the image above. The film is shooting in Italy and features Driver alongside Penélope Cruz, who plays Laura Ferrari, and Shailene Woodley as Lina Lardi. The cast is rounded out by Patrick Dempsey, Jack O’Connell, Peter Collins, Sarah Gadon, Linda Christian and Gabriel Leone. Michael Mann directs from a script he co-wrote with Troy Kennedy Martin (The Italian Job). Set during the summer of 1957, the film follows ex-racecar driver Ferrari as bankruptcy stalks the company he and his wife, Laura, built from nothing ten years earlier. Their tempestuous marriage struggles with the mourning for one son and the acknowledgment of another. He decides to counter his losses by rolling the dice...
- 10/7/2022
- by Zac Ntim and Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Every year, Strictly Come Dancing returns to glitz up our Saturday nights... and every year, fans are treated to another movie special.
First introduced in 2014, Strictly’s Movie Week sees the contestants perform a selection of dances inspired by the biggest Hollywood blockbusters, with comedy, action and kids films all being given the Strictly treatment over the years.
But what makes for a really good Movie Week performance? Looking the part is obviously key, and you can always expect this theme to bring out some of the best hair, make-up and costumes that Strictly has to offer.
Ultimately, however, it’s the dancing being marked, with the best performances managing to show off the celebrity’s skill – something they often haven’t quite found yet, with Movie Week usually coming around the third week in the competition – while also featuring choreography that captures the essence of the films they’re paying tribute to.
First introduced in 2014, Strictly’s Movie Week sees the contestants perform a selection of dances inspired by the biggest Hollywood blockbusters, with comedy, action and kids films all being given the Strictly treatment over the years.
But what makes for a really good Movie Week performance? Looking the part is obviously key, and you can always expect this theme to bring out some of the best hair, make-up and costumes that Strictly has to offer.
Ultimately, however, it’s the dancing being marked, with the best performances managing to show off the celebrity’s skill – something they often haven’t quite found yet, with Movie Week usually coming around the third week in the competition – while also featuring choreography that captures the essence of the films they’re paying tribute to.
- 10/2/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Susanna Reid had an awkward exchange on Monday’s (26 September) episode of Good Morning Britain, after cracking a joke about Rachel Reeves’s new haircut.
The ITV morning show host made the comments during a conversation about tax cuts in the new government mini-budget.
She alluded to the fact that it appeared further cuts had been made, referencing Reeves’s hair, an exchange that was made even more awkward when Reeves had trouble hearing the Gmb host, forcing her to repeat the joke.
Co-host Ed Balls appeared surprised by Reid’s comments, remarking: “Good job I didn’t say that about her hair – I’d be in total trouble!”
However, Reid defended her comment on air, claiming that a new hairstyle on a public figure such as an MP was noticeable.
The awkward moment in the Gmb studio also fell flat with many viewers at home, who shared their thoughts on social media.
The ITV morning show host made the comments during a conversation about tax cuts in the new government mini-budget.
She alluded to the fact that it appeared further cuts had been made, referencing Reeves’s hair, an exchange that was made even more awkward when Reeves had trouble hearing the Gmb host, forcing her to repeat the joke.
Co-host Ed Balls appeared surprised by Reid’s comments, remarking: “Good job I didn’t say that about her hair – I’d be in total trouble!”
However, Reid defended her comment on air, claiming that a new hairstyle on a public figure such as an MP was noticeable.
The awkward moment in the Gmb studio also fell flat with many viewers at home, who shared their thoughts on social media.
- 9/26/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
For years, Strictly Come Dancing has been providing TV audiences with Saturday night entertainment and some truly unforgettable performances.
First airing in 2004 with Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly as hosts, Strictly seemed like a celebrity reality TV show like any other.
But, the show soon became a huge national and international hit, with everyone from politicians to YouTubers taking on the challenge of learning to ballroom dance.
Along the way, there have been some performances you just can’t forget regardless of whether they’re worthy of a perfect 40 or burnt onto your brain for all the wrong reasons.
From the very best to the very, very worst, here are 12 of Strictly’s most memorable moments.
Ed Balls does “Gangnam Style”
When Ed Balls of “tweeting his own name” fame was announced as a contestant, it was assumed that he would be a joke act eliminated in one of the first weeks.
First airing in 2004 with Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly as hosts, Strictly seemed like a celebrity reality TV show like any other.
But, the show soon became a huge national and international hit, with everyone from politicians to YouTubers taking on the challenge of learning to ballroom dance.
Along the way, there have been some performances you just can’t forget regardless of whether they’re worthy of a perfect 40 or burnt onto your brain for all the wrong reasons.
From the very best to the very, very worst, here are 12 of Strictly’s most memorable moments.
Ed Balls does “Gangnam Style”
When Ed Balls of “tweeting his own name” fame was announced as a contestant, it was assumed that he would be a joke act eliminated in one of the first weeks.
- 9/6/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
For years, Strictly Come Dancing has been providing TV audiences with Saturday night entertainment and some truly unforgettable performances.
First airing in 2004 with Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly as hosts, Strictly seemed like a celebrity reality TV show like any other.
But, the show soon became a huge national and international hit, with everyone from politicians to YouTubers taking on the challenge of learning to ballroom dance.
Along the way, there have been some performances you just can’t forget regardless of whether they’re worthy of a perfect 40 or burnt onto your brain for all the wrong reasons.
From the very best to the very, very worst, here are 12 of Strictly’s most memorable moments.
Ed Balls does “Gangnam Style”
When Ed Balls of “tweeting his own name” fame was announced as a contestant, it was assumed that he would be a joke act eliminated in one of the first weeks.
First airing in 2004 with Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly as hosts, Strictly seemed like a celebrity reality TV show like any other.
But, the show soon became a huge national and international hit, with everyone from politicians to YouTubers taking on the challenge of learning to ballroom dance.
Along the way, there have been some performances you just can’t forget regardless of whether they’re worthy of a perfect 40 or burnt onto your brain for all the wrong reasons.
From the very best to the very, very worst, here are 12 of Strictly’s most memorable moments.
Ed Balls does “Gangnam Style”
When Ed Balls of “tweeting his own name” fame was announced as a contestant, it was assumed that he would be a joke act eliminated in one of the first weeks.
- 8/30/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Every year, Strictly Come Dancing returns to glitz up our Saturday nights... and every year, fans are treated to another movie special.
First introduced in 2014, Strictly’s Movie Week sees the contestants perform a selection of dances inspired by the biggest Hollywood blockbusters, with comedy, action and kids films all being given the Strictly treatment over the years.
But what makes for a really good Movie Week performance? Looking the part is obviously key, and you can always expect this theme to bring out some of the best hair, make-up and costumes that Strictly has to offer.
Ultimately, however, it’s the dancing being marked, with the best performances managing to show off the celebrity’s skill – something they often haven’t quite found yet, with Movie Week usually coming around the third week in the competition – while also featuring choreography that captures the essence of the films they’re paying tribute to.
First introduced in 2014, Strictly’s Movie Week sees the contestants perform a selection of dances inspired by the biggest Hollywood blockbusters, with comedy, action and kids films all being given the Strictly treatment over the years.
But what makes for a really good Movie Week performance? Looking the part is obviously key, and you can always expect this theme to bring out some of the best hair, make-up and costumes that Strictly has to offer.
Ultimately, however, it’s the dancing being marked, with the best performances managing to show off the celebrity’s skill – something they often haven’t quite found yet, with Movie Week usually coming around the third week in the competition – while also featuring choreography that captures the essence of the films they’re paying tribute to.
- 8/30/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Strictly Come Dancing will celebrate 100 years of the BBC with a special themed week.
The BBC show returns for its 20th series this September, with 15 celebrity contestants – including TV presenter Helen Skelton, EastEnders actor James Bye, singer Fleur East and former England footballer Tony Adams – taking to the dance floor.
You can see the full line-up here.
The series launches on September 17 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with the BBC 100 themed week announced alongside returning favourites like Movie Week, Halloween Week and the much-loved Musicals Week.
The BBC celebrates its centenary this year, and the themed episode will see Strictly couples “either dancing to a theme tune from an iconic BBC programme or in tribute to one of the BBC’s most-loved services”.
The flagship entertainment series will also return to Blackpool after a two-year absence.
The ballroom, which dates back to 1894, is ready to welcome more Strictly dancing...
The BBC show returns for its 20th series this September, with 15 celebrity contestants – including TV presenter Helen Skelton, EastEnders actor James Bye, singer Fleur East and former England footballer Tony Adams – taking to the dance floor.
You can see the full line-up here.
The series launches on September 17 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with the BBC 100 themed week announced alongside returning favourites like Movie Week, Halloween Week and the much-loved Musicals Week.
The BBC celebrates its centenary this year, and the themed episode will see Strictly couples “either dancing to a theme tune from an iconic BBC programme or in tribute to one of the BBC’s most-loved services”.
The flagship entertainment series will also return to Blackpool after a two-year absence.
The ballroom, which dates back to 1894, is ready to welcome more Strictly dancing...
- 8/22/2022
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
This has been the weirdest week in British television in a long time.
In the days leading up to Boris Johnson’s resignation, the number of gaffes and surreal moments captured on live television became almost impossible to track. But in many ways, these moments reflected the surreal mood of the country as the prime minister refused to step down, despite more than 50 government resignations.
Take the political coverage from College Green, a public park in Westminster and a popular location for interviews with politicians. On Wednesday, the day after Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Chancellor Rishi Sunak sensationally resigned from their posts, ITV’s Susanna Reid and former Labour chancellor Ed Balls were interrupted on “Good Morning Britain” by the anti-Brexit campaigner Steve Bray singing a karaoke version of the Bay City Rollers, replacing the words “Bye Bye Baby” with “Bye Bye Boris.”
“Bye Bye Boris, Boris Bye Bye...
In the days leading up to Boris Johnson’s resignation, the number of gaffes and surreal moments captured on live television became almost impossible to track. But in many ways, these moments reflected the surreal mood of the country as the prime minister refused to step down, despite more than 50 government resignations.
Take the political coverage from College Green, a public park in Westminster and a popular location for interviews with politicians. On Wednesday, the day after Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Chancellor Rishi Sunak sensationally resigned from their posts, ITV’s Susanna Reid and former Labour chancellor Ed Balls were interrupted on “Good Morning Britain” by the anti-Brexit campaigner Steve Bray singing a karaoke version of the Bay City Rollers, replacing the words “Bye Bye Baby” with “Bye Bye Boris.”
“Bye Bye Boris, Boris Bye Bye...
- 7/7/2022
- by Scott Bryan
- Variety Film + TV
Compensation
Visual effects and animation studio Dneg, whose credits include “Dune” and “No Time to Die,” will pay enhanced overtime to its U.K. employees.
From October, Dneg will pay overtime at 1.5x rate to all U.K. staff in non-management positions for all incremental time that they are asked to work beyond the standard 40-hour week. The move will bring Dneg’s U.K. overtime policy in line with its studios in North America and applies across its film and episodic visual effects, Dneg Animation and ReDefine operations, including its artist, production, technology and support teams.
The decision is a departure from the existing U.K. industry norm, where employees are compensated for overtime with paid time off after a project is completed.
Dneg has won multiple awards over the years. In 2021 alone, the company won the visual effects BAFTA and Oscar for Christopher Nolan‘s “Tenet.”
Novator Capital Advisers...
Visual effects and animation studio Dneg, whose credits include “Dune” and “No Time to Die,” will pay enhanced overtime to its U.K. employees.
From October, Dneg will pay overtime at 1.5x rate to all U.K. staff in non-management positions for all incremental time that they are asked to work beyond the standard 40-hour week. The move will bring Dneg’s U.K. overtime policy in line with its studios in North America and applies across its film and episodic visual effects, Dneg Animation and ReDefine operations, including its artist, production, technology and support teams.
The decision is a departure from the existing U.K. industry norm, where employees are compensated for overtime with paid time off after a project is completed.
Dneg has won multiple awards over the years. In 2021 alone, the company won the visual effects BAFTA and Oscar for Christopher Nolan‘s “Tenet.”
Novator Capital Advisers...
- 9/13/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Christmas Jumper Day is back! And whilst it may look a little different after a challenging year, Save the Children is hoping that flashing, festive knits will still be sweeping the nation on Friday 11th December, creating much-needed Christmas cheer and a chance to raise money for the world’s most vulnerable children in the UK and around the world.
Jaime Winstone supports Save the Children's Christmas Jumper Day
Credit/Copyright: Tom Dymond
Expect virtual calls to be taken over by jumpers festooned with jingle bells, twinkling lights and sparkles galore; children ditching their school uniforms in favour of their daftest winter woollies and dogs rocking last year’s tinsel as the nation prepares for the annual fundraiser.
This year, a whole host of celebrities have signed up to support Christmas Jumper Day, including Jaime Winstone, Alex Scott, Thanyia Moore, Nicola Adams, Holly Willoughby, Ed Balls, Peter Andre, Kem Cetinay,...
Jaime Winstone supports Save the Children's Christmas Jumper Day
Credit/Copyright: Tom Dymond
Expect virtual calls to be taken over by jumpers festooned with jingle bells, twinkling lights and sparkles galore; children ditching their school uniforms in favour of their daftest winter woollies and dogs rocking last year’s tinsel as the nation prepares for the annual fundraiser.
This year, a whole host of celebrities have signed up to support Christmas Jumper Day, including Jaime Winstone, Alex Scott, Thanyia Moore, Nicola Adams, Holly Willoughby, Ed Balls, Peter Andre, Kem Cetinay,...
- 11/16/2020
- Look to the Stars
Exclusive: Former Big Brother boss Nick Samwell Smith has left Tim Hincks and Peter Fincham’s Expectation.
I hear Samwell Smith, who was Creative Director of Entertainment at the BBC Studios-backed business, left quietly over the last few months.
Samwell Smith was one of the company’s first hires when it launched at the start of last year. He worked alongside Nick Mather, who was also Creative Director, Entertainment, and was responsible for exec producing Channel 5 travelogue Dale’s Florida Fly Drive. Prior to joining Expectation, Samwell Smith was Managing Director of Endemol Shine-owned Initial, which he joined in 1997 before becoming Creative Director in 2006 and MD in 2013. In addition to producing 15 seasons of Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother, Samwell Smith also produced series including Fame Academy, Total Wipeout, Your Face Sounds Familiar, Dating In The Dark and 101 Ways To Leave A Gameshow.
An Expectation spokeswoman told Deadline,...
I hear Samwell Smith, who was Creative Director of Entertainment at the BBC Studios-backed business, left quietly over the last few months.
Samwell Smith was one of the company’s first hires when it launched at the start of last year. He worked alongside Nick Mather, who was also Creative Director, Entertainment, and was responsible for exec producing Channel 5 travelogue Dale’s Florida Fly Drive. Prior to joining Expectation, Samwell Smith was Managing Director of Endemol Shine-owned Initial, which he joined in 1997 before becoming Creative Director in 2006 and MD in 2013. In addition to producing 15 seasons of Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother, Samwell Smith also produced series including Fame Academy, Total Wipeout, Your Face Sounds Familiar, Dating In The Dark and 101 Ways To Leave A Gameshow.
An Expectation spokeswoman told Deadline,...
- 11/12/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Louisa Mellor Jan 10, 2018
Sarah Lancashire is terrific in new four-part social work drama Kiri, written by Jack Thorne…
This review contains spoilers.
See related 35 must-watch movies in 2017
Doubt was the engine of writer Jack Thorne’s previous Channel 4 drama National Treasure, in which Robbie Coltrane played a popular entertainer on trial for multiple sexual assaults. Was Coltrane’s character guilty or not? Whose memory of events was reliable? Who was lying and who was telling the truth?
Kiri, Thorne’s latest, directed by Euros Lyn, is driven by blame. When a child in care is murdered, where should the blame land? With her killer, certainly, but also with those charged with keeping her safe—foster parents, grandparents, social worker?
Sarah Lancashire plays the latter, Miriam Grayson, with the instant, garrulous appeal of her role as Sgt Catherine Cawood in BBC police drama Happy Valley. We meet her mid-monologue, cheerily...
Sarah Lancashire is terrific in new four-part social work drama Kiri, written by Jack Thorne…
This review contains spoilers.
See related 35 must-watch movies in 2017
Doubt was the engine of writer Jack Thorne’s previous Channel 4 drama National Treasure, in which Robbie Coltrane played a popular entertainer on trial for multiple sexual assaults. Was Coltrane’s character guilty or not? Whose memory of events was reliable? Who was lying and who was telling the truth?
Kiri, Thorne’s latest, directed by Euros Lyn, is driven by blame. When a child in care is murdered, where should the blame land? With her killer, certainly, but also with those charged with keeping her safe—foster parents, grandparents, social worker?
Sarah Lancashire plays the latter, Miriam Grayson, with the instant, garrulous appeal of her role as Sgt Catherine Cawood in BBC police drama Happy Valley. We meet her mid-monologue, cheerily...
- 1/5/2018
- Den of Geek
Piers Morgan has given his opinion on Susanna Reid's "unfair" reputation for being a flirt - and for once, we totally agree with him.
The presenter defended his new Good Morning Britain co-host and rubbished the "overtly sexist" claims.
9 reasons we love Good Morning Britain's Susanna Reid, from Beckham flirtations to 'secret' breakfasts
Morgan said: "She's damned if she does, damned if she doesn't. I can flirt away with anyone when I do my Life Stories, nobody gives a damn. But the moment she has a laugh with David Beckham, or the Prime Minister, suddenly she's being disgraceful and flirting too much.
"I think it's pathetic, I really do. I think she's a very good interviewer, she likes light and shade, she can be serious, she can be frivolous – that's all the things you want in an interviewer."
He added: "They should back off being so overtly sexist about it,...
The presenter defended his new Good Morning Britain co-host and rubbished the "overtly sexist" claims.
9 reasons we love Good Morning Britain's Susanna Reid, from Beckham flirtations to 'secret' breakfasts
Morgan said: "She's damned if she does, damned if she doesn't. I can flirt away with anyone when I do my Life Stories, nobody gives a damn. But the moment she has a laugh with David Beckham, or the Prime Minister, suddenly she's being disgraceful and flirting too much.
"I think it's pathetic, I really do. I think she's a very good interviewer, she likes light and shade, she can be serious, she can be frivolous – that's all the things you want in an interviewer."
He added: "They should back off being so overtly sexist about it,...
- 10/14/2015
- Digital Spy
Piers Morgan's threats have come to pass, as he has officially joined the Good Morning Britain presenting team.
He will co-host the ITV breakfast show with Susanna Reid three days a week from November.
"I am very excited at the prospect of waking up at 3am every morning, and even more excited by the thought of how annoying Susanna is going to find me after a few months," Morgan said.
"Good Morning Britain is a great show with a terrific team on and off screen. I'm looking forward to it enormously."
ITV Director of Daytime Helen Warner said: "We loved having Piers on the show earlier this year, so we're delighted that he's joining us permanently.
"He is an excellent interviewer and a great broadcaster, who fits in brilliantly with Gmb's family of presenters."
Morgan had teased his appointment last month, saying he had been offered a permanent slot...
He will co-host the ITV breakfast show with Susanna Reid three days a week from November.
"I am very excited at the prospect of waking up at 3am every morning, and even more excited by the thought of how annoying Susanna is going to find me after a few months," Morgan said.
"Good Morning Britain is a great show with a terrific team on and off screen. I'm looking forward to it enormously."
ITV Director of Daytime Helen Warner said: "We loved having Piers on the show earlier this year, so we're delighted that he's joining us permanently.
"He is an excellent interviewer and a great broadcaster, who fits in brilliantly with Gmb's family of presenters."
Morgan had teased his appointment last month, saying he had been offered a permanent slot...
- 10/13/2015
- Digital Spy
Piers Morgan was such a big hit on ITV's Good Morning Britain that he may be about to sign a permanent deal.
The TV personality and journalist has claimed that he expects to join up with the morning show on a regular basis in the near future, but hasn't elaborated yet.
Breaking News: As I confirmed on @itvthismorning, I've been offered a permanent slot on @Gmb & hope to conclude the deal very soon.
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) September 3, 2015
This deal could mean that he is replacing one of the co-hosts on a permanent basis, or that he will appear regularly in the same manner as Eamonn Holmes or Amanda Holden on This Morning.
Failing that, he could appear as some kind of regular correspondent on all things that tickle Piers Morgan's boat.
Morgan has so far filled in for Ben Shephard during his holidays for a week in April and three days in July,...
The TV personality and journalist has claimed that he expects to join up with the morning show on a regular basis in the near future, but hasn't elaborated yet.
Breaking News: As I confirmed on @itvthismorning, I've been offered a permanent slot on @Gmb & hope to conclude the deal very soon.
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) September 3, 2015
This deal could mean that he is replacing one of the co-hosts on a permanent basis, or that he will appear regularly in the same manner as Eamonn Holmes or Amanda Holden on This Morning.
Failing that, he could appear as some kind of regular correspondent on all things that tickle Piers Morgan's boat.
Morgan has so far filled in for Ben Shephard during his holidays for a week in April and three days in July,...
- 9/3/2015
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing is still months away, but the rumours about which celebrities could be taking part this year are really starting to heat up now - and they've been going since January. So it felt like a good time to start to put together all the speculation we've heard to see if we can figure out who'll be hitting the ballroom in the new series.
Strictly Come Dancing: This is how they keep the celebrities taking part a secret
Strictly Come Dancing 2015 winner: We rank the celebrities' changes of topping BBC One's dance-off
With all the contestants now confirmed, check out the lineup below - and lament what could have been with the rumours that didn't become a reality. Oh well, there's always the Christmas special...
Confirmed
Rumoured
Confirmed contestants
Jeremy Vine
King of the swingometer Jeremy became the first celebrity confirmed for Strictly on August 10.
The...
Strictly Come Dancing: This is how they keep the celebrities taking part a secret
Strictly Come Dancing 2015 winner: We rank the celebrities' changes of topping BBC One's dance-off
With all the contestants now confirmed, check out the lineup below - and lament what could have been with the rumours that didn't become a reality. Oh well, there's always the Christmas special...
Confirmed
Rumoured
Confirmed contestants
Jeremy Vine
King of the swingometer Jeremy became the first celebrity confirmed for Strictly on August 10.
The...
- 8/28/2015
- Digital Spy
Ed Balls has no plans to swap the House of Commons for the jungle, after confirming he will not be taking part in this year's I'm a Celebrity.
The former Labour shadow chancellor was asked to take part in the ITV show, but he wasn't temped.
He told The Telegraph: "I wrote back [to ITV] to say that I'd already subjected myself to one high-profile public vote this year, and I wasn't really sure that I wanted a second one.
"At least having to eat bugs and crickets wasn't part of the election process. I'm not tough enough for that."
He was one of the many celebrities linked with Strictly Come Dancing this year as well.
He turned down the chance to don sequins, glitter and fake tan on Strictly, despite his wife, Labour leadership candidate Yvette Cooper, joking that it was simply because it clashed with filming in the jungle.
'...
The former Labour shadow chancellor was asked to take part in the ITV show, but he wasn't temped.
He told The Telegraph: "I wrote back [to ITV] to say that I'd already subjected myself to one high-profile public vote this year, and I wasn't really sure that I wanted a second one.
"At least having to eat bugs and crickets wasn't part of the election process. I'm not tough enough for that."
He was one of the many celebrities linked with Strictly Come Dancing this year as well.
He turned down the chance to don sequins, glitter and fake tan on Strictly, despite his wife, Labour leadership candidate Yvette Cooper, joking that it was simply because it clashed with filming in the jungle.
'...
- 8/1/2015
- Digital Spy
Linda Robson has turned down the chance to appear on the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.
The Birds of a Feather actress feared that she would become the "joke" of the show, and didn't want to traumatise her kids by making a fool of herself.
She told the Daily Star: "You have to know your capabilities. I could not learn one routine. I did Let's Dance for Sport Relief and I could not remember the routine and I had three weeks to learn it.
"I don't mind people laughing with me but my kids would be traumatised. I would be the joke one if I went on the show and I don't want that."
Despite her reluctance to take part, Robson thinks her co-star Lesley Joseph, 69, would be a "fantastic" addition to the line-up.
Linford Christie has also revealed that he said no to the popular dancing series, describing...
The Birds of a Feather actress feared that she would become the "joke" of the show, and didn't want to traumatise her kids by making a fool of herself.
She told the Daily Star: "You have to know your capabilities. I could not learn one routine. I did Let's Dance for Sport Relief and I could not remember the routine and I had three weeks to learn it.
"I don't mind people laughing with me but my kids would be traumatised. I would be the joke one if I went on the show and I don't want that."
Despite her reluctance to take part, Robson thinks her co-star Lesley Joseph, 69, would be a "fantastic" addition to the line-up.
Linford Christie has also revealed that he said no to the popular dancing series, describing...
- 7/30/2015
- Digital Spy
Linford Christie has revealed that he rejected the opportunity to appear on Strictly Come Dancing.
The gold medal-winning former sprinter told the Radio Times that he did not want to do the show because he feels that he is "not a good dancer".
Strictly Come Dancing 2015 lineup rumours: Which celebrities could take part this year?
"I'm the only black guy you'll meet with two left feet," he said. "I spent so much time training in my youth that I missed out on dancing."
However, he added that he would "love to be able to dance".
Christie also voiced his dislike of reality shows in general. "There are far too many. I know I did I'm a Celebrity, but they're part of that growing intrusive popular culture.
"People want their 15 minutes of fame, but they don't realise it affects their lives forever."
Strictly Come Dancing will air on BBC One later this year,...
The gold medal-winning former sprinter told the Radio Times that he did not want to do the show because he feels that he is "not a good dancer".
Strictly Come Dancing 2015 lineup rumours: Which celebrities could take part this year?
"I'm the only black guy you'll meet with two left feet," he said. "I spent so much time training in my youth that I missed out on dancing."
However, he added that he would "love to be able to dance".
Christie also voiced his dislike of reality shows in general. "There are far too many. I know I did I'm a Celebrity, but they're part of that growing intrusive popular culture.
"People want their 15 minutes of fame, but they don't realise it affects their lives forever."
Strictly Come Dancing will air on BBC One later this year,...
- 7/28/2015
- Digital Spy
Strictly Come Dancing's Vincent Simone and wife Susan Duddy have revealed touching details about their recent wedding in Ireland.
The 36-year-old Italian professional dancer tied the knot in Co Monaghan's Castle Leslie, with guests including former Strictly partners Louisa Lytton, Dani Harmer and Edwina Currie, and ex-I'm a Celebrity stars David Emanuel, Matthew Wright and Rebecca Adlington.
Speaking about seeing his bride for the first time, an emotional Simone enthused to Hello: "I felt incredibly emotional and was worried I wouldn't keep it together. I couldn't look back at Susan as she walked up the aisle because I was afraid I would dissolve into tears.
"She looked so beautiful, really breathtaking."
The couple - who have two young children together - told the publication that their first dance was to Ronan Keating's 'This I Promise You', with Simone adding that Susan suggested he perform it with one of his Strictly ex-partners.
The 36-year-old Italian professional dancer tied the knot in Co Monaghan's Castle Leslie, with guests including former Strictly partners Louisa Lytton, Dani Harmer and Edwina Currie, and ex-I'm a Celebrity stars David Emanuel, Matthew Wright and Rebecca Adlington.
Speaking about seeing his bride for the first time, an emotional Simone enthused to Hello: "I felt incredibly emotional and was worried I wouldn't keep it together. I couldn't look back at Susan as she walked up the aisle because I was afraid I would dissolve into tears.
"She looked so beautiful, really breathtaking."
The couple - who have two young children together - told the publication that their first dance was to Ronan Keating's 'This I Promise You', with Simone adding that Susan suggested he perform it with one of his Strictly ex-partners.
- 7/27/2015
- Digital Spy
Tess Daly has spoken about the fire-related accident which left Claudia Winkleman's daughter with severe burns.
The Strictly Come Dancing co-host told Hello magazine that it was a "hellish time", but that "Matilda is doing really well now".
"She is a gorgeous little girl with a great sense of humour, just like her mum," she added.
Winkleman was absent from Strictly Come Dancing for several weeks last autumn after 8-year-old Matilda was severely burned in an accident on Halloween.
Speaking about her young daughter's injury for the first time back in May - which she had described as "life-changing" - Winkleman implored other parents to be cautious when dressing their children in fancy-dress costumes.
"I would like parents to - just on Halloween, just to think about what they're going to put their kids in because I didn't, and it cost us.
"It's life-changing but not life-defining. It was definitely life-changing for me.
The Strictly Come Dancing co-host told Hello magazine that it was a "hellish time", but that "Matilda is doing really well now".
"She is a gorgeous little girl with a great sense of humour, just like her mum," she added.
Winkleman was absent from Strictly Come Dancing for several weeks last autumn after 8-year-old Matilda was severely burned in an accident on Halloween.
Speaking about her young daughter's injury for the first time back in May - which she had described as "life-changing" - Winkleman implored other parents to be cautious when dressing their children in fancy-dress costumes.
"I would like parents to - just on Halloween, just to think about what they're going to put their kids in because I didn't, and it cost us.
"It's life-changing but not life-defining. It was definitely life-changing for me.
- 7/21/2015
- Digital Spy
Ed Balls won't be swapping the lobby floor for the dance floor, as Yvette Cooper has confirmed her husband won't be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing.
The former Labour shadow chancellor had been linked with the BBC One show in recent weeks, after losing his House of Commons seat at the May 2015 general election.
Labour Party leadership candidate Cooper told journalists at a press gallery lunch that Balls will not be showing off his fancy footwork on primetime television this autumn, joking that it would "conflict with filming in the jungle".
However, before you assume that Ed will be getting acquainted with kangaroo balls on I'm a Celebrity instead, that's probably not likely either.
The former MP for Morley and Outwood confirmed yesterday that he's accepted a senior fellowship at the Harvard Kennedy School's Mossavar-Rahmani Centre for Business and Government.
'Ed Balls will not be doing Strictly Come Dancing...
The former Labour shadow chancellor had been linked with the BBC One show in recent weeks, after losing his House of Commons seat at the May 2015 general election.
Labour Party leadership candidate Cooper told journalists at a press gallery lunch that Balls will not be showing off his fancy footwork on primetime television this autumn, joking that it would "conflict with filming in the jungle".
However, before you assume that Ed will be getting acquainted with kangaroo balls on I'm a Celebrity instead, that's probably not likely either.
The former MP for Morley and Outwood confirmed yesterday that he's accepted a senior fellowship at the Harvard Kennedy School's Mossavar-Rahmani Centre for Business and Government.
'Ed Balls will not be doing Strictly Come Dancing...
- 6/18/2015
- Digital Spy
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