cast

The Thursday Club is based on the best-selling book from former Pointless star Richard Osman.

The Thursday Club is set to make its cinema debut this week with fans understandably excited thanks to the unbelievable cast.

Hype has been mounting for the premiere of the silver screen adaptation of Richard Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club for quite some time but now the wait is almost over.

The Pointless star’s best-selling 2020 novel revolves around four friends in a retirement home who spend their time solving cold case murders for fun.

However, things actually get real for them when a property developer is found dead and the gang find themselves in the middle of the murder investigation.

The Thursday Murder Club cast in full

Elizabeth Best – Helen Mirren

The one and only Helen Mirren is behind Elizabeth Best in this eagerly anticipated adaptation, an ex-spy and the founder of the Thursday Murder Club.

Mirren is renowned for starring in massive hits such as The Queen, Hitchcock, Age of Consent, Excalibur, Gosford Park and Calendar Girls.

Ron Ritchie – Pierce Brosnan

Fellow member of the Thursday Murder Club is Ron Ritchie, a former union activist.

Irish star Pierce Brosnan is globally best remembered for starring as James Bond in the iconic franchise but has also been in Mamma Mia! and most recently starred in Paramount+’s Mobland.

Ibrahim Arif – Sir Ben Kingsley

Ron and Elizabeth are joined by fellow retiree and ex-psychiatrist Ibrahim Arif.

Sir Ben Kingsley has featured in major blockbusters including Sexy Beast, Shutter Island, Jules, William Tell and Richard Attenborough’s Gandhi.

Joyce Meadowcroft – Celia Imrie

Actress Celia Imrie is a star of both TV and film, with projects like The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Bridget Jones’ Diary, Calendar Girls, Keeping Faith, The Diplomat and Patrick Melrose under her belt.

Imrie is behind former nurse and latest member of the club, Joyce Meadowcroft.

DCI Chris Hudson – Daniel Mays

Another recognisable star of British TV is actor Daniel Mays who is known for his work in Lin of Duty, Ashes to Ashes, White Lines, Des and Code 404.

He is behind DCI Chris Hudson who gets sucked into the workings of the Thursday Murder Club.

Donna de Freitas – Naomi Ackie

In Osman’s novel, Donna de Freitas is an eager policewoman who has just been transferred from South London.

Actress Naomi Ackie won the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress in Netflix ’s The End of the F*****g World, and has also been in BBC ’s Small Axe, Star Wars : Rise of Skywalker and portrayed Whitney Houston in the biopic I Wanna Dance With Somebody.

Stephen Best – Jonathan Pryce

Welsh star Jonathan Pryce has featured in mega hits like The Age of Innocence, Pirates of the Caribbean, Evita, Tomorrow Never Dies and The Two Popes.

Pryce, who will play Elizabeth’s husband Stephen Best, also portrayed Prince Philip in the final two seasons of The Crown.

Ian Ventham – David Tennant

Scottish star David Tennant has featured in an abundance of exciting shows and films including Broadchurch, Good Omens, Deadwater Fell, Jessica Jones, the Harry Potter franchise, The Sandman and, of course, as the tenth Time Lord in Doctor Who.

In The Thursday Murder Club, Tennant portrays Ian Ventham, the dodgy owner of the retirement village Coopers Chase.

Bogdan Jankowski – Henry Lloyd-Hughes

Actor Henry Lloyd-Hughe is behind the Thursday Murder Club’s right-hand man, although how he becomes involved isn’t made clear.

Lloyd-Hughes has starred in The Irregulars, Indian Summers, Parade’s End and The Long Shadow but many may remember him best for playing bully Mark Donovan in The Inbetweeners.

Tony Curran – Geoff Bell

Actor Geoff Bell has starred in The Business, Once Upon a Time in London, Daylight Robbery and, most recently, Mobland, just to list a few.

He is behind Tony Curran, a builder and business partner at the retirement village.

Jason Ritchie – Tom Ellis

Jason Ritchie is Brosnan’s character Ron’s son who used to be a famous boxer who previously made some “shady deals”.

He is brought to life by the unforgettable Tom Ellis who starred as Lucifer himself in the titular drama, and also had roles in Miranda, Washington Black and Once Upon A Time.

Bobby Tanner – Richard E Grant

Also joining the cast is actor Richard E Grant who is playing a character called Bobby Tanner.

Grant is known for his roles in Saltburn, Waltlock, Death of a Unicorn, Dom Hemingway and Withnail and I.

John Grey – Paul Freeman

John Grey is a fellow resident at Coopers Chase and the husband of a friend of Elizabeth’s.

Actor Paul Freeman is remembered for starring in The Dogs of War and Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Patrice de Freitas – Sarah Niles

Actress Sarah Niles is best known for starring as Dr Sharon Fieldstone in Apple TV+’s Ted Lasso.

She is playing Patrice de Freitas, young police officer Donna’s mum.

Joanna Meadowcroft – Ingrid Oliver

Actress and comedian Ingrid Oliver, who was part of the double act Watson and Oliver and played Petronella Osgood in Doctor Who, is behind Joyce’s daughter Joanna Meadowcroft.

In real life, Oliver is also the wife of The Thursday Murder Club author Richard Osman.

The Thursday Murder Club premieres on Friday, August 22, in cinemas, and on Thursday, August 28, on Netflix.

My Life With The Walter Boys season two is on the horizon and Netflix has already renewed the hit teenage drama for a third outing.

WARNING: This article contains spoilers from My Life With The Walter Boys.

Netflix’s My Life With The Walter Boys season two is on its way and fans are chomping at the bit to get all the juicy details.

The life of Jackie Howard (portrayed by Nikki Rodriguez) took a dramatic turn in the first series when she was compelled to leave New York and move in with her mum’s best mate Katherine Walter (Sarah Rafferty) in Silver Falls, Colorado, following the tragic demise of her family.

She had no idea that she would be sharing a roof with nine lads, including two nephews, and Katherine and George’s (Marc Blucas) only daughter Parker Walter (Alix West Lefler).

What came as an even bigger surprise was the budding love triangle between herself, the gentle-hearted Alex (Ashby Gentry), and the seemingly rebellious Cole Walter (Noah LaLonde).

But what’s next after Jackie’s passionate kiss with Cole before her abrupt departure from Silver Falls?

My Life With The Walter Boys season two release date

The countdown is on for the return of My Life With The Walter Boys for its second season, with the Netflix sensation set to make a comeback on Thursday, 28 August, on Netflix.

Netflix has also already given the green light for a third instalment of the drama, with production for My Life With The Walter Boys season three already in progress.

My Life With The Walter Boys season two cast

All the main stars from the inaugural series will be back for the second run of My Life With The Walter Boys.

This includes Rodriguez reprising her role as Jackie, LaLonde as Cole, Gentry as Alex, and Rafferty as Katherine.

Other stars returning to their roles include Marc Blucas as George, Johnny Link as Will, Connor Stanhope as Danny, Corey Fogelmanis as Nathan and Ellie O’Brien as Grace.

Several fresh faces are joining the cast this series, featuring actress Natalie Sharp as champion rodeo rider Blake Hartford, Carson MacCormac as charming senior Zach, Joanne Wagner as Grace’s traditional mum, Riele Downs as “flirty” Maria and Jake Manley as competitive rodeo rider Wylder Holt.

What to expect from My Life With The Walter Boys season two

Jackie will be heading back to Silver Falls following her summer stint in New York, a spontaneous journey triggered by her kiss with Cole.

She’ll be attempting to rebuild her bond with Alex, establishing limits with Cole and seeking to rediscover her position within the Walter household.

Meanwhile, Alex will be concentrating on rodeo preparation whilst Cole continues to grapple with losing his football identity and quickly reverts to previous patterns.

There’s also drama brewing for George and Will as their scheme to transform their farm into a commercial venture doesn’t receive a warm reception from all community members.

My Life With The Walter Boys season two launches on Thursday, August 28, on Netflix.

Hayley Atwell and Rupert Everett join the cast as Emily Atack says she loved playing sexy Sarah Stratton: ‘I am her. I’m a flawed woman’

When the adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s bonkbuster Rivals hit screens last year, it quickly became Disney’s best performing TV drama. Now Rupert Everett and Hayley Attwell are to join the cast for the much-anticipated second series, playing lead character Rupert Campbell Black’s former showjumping boss and his bitter ex-wife – who are now married to each other.

Atwell, best known for her roles in the Marvel and Mission Impossible films, will be playing Helen Gordon, mother of Rupert’s two children, Marcus and Tabitha – who will also appear this time around.

Everett, who starred alongside Julia Roberts in My Best Friend’s Wedding, takes on the role of her husband Malise Gordon, Campbell Black’s former show-jumping coach and mentor.

READ MORE: Expert for The Jury: Murder Trial believes second series reaches ‘wrong verdict’ next week

In Cooper’s original story Helen was treated badly by her ex-husband and remains very bitter towards him after their divorce. She is now married to the former chef d’équipe of the British showjumping team, Malise.

Speaking in a session at the Edinburgh TV Festival yesterday where the castings were announced, Emily Atack joked that her character Sarah Stratton, the regularly unfaithful wife of an MP, had not been much of a stretch. “I had to dig real deep,” she quipped.

But the actress, who found fame with hit series The Inbetweeners, said she had no qualms about playing a flawed temptress.. “I’ve been typecast my whole life and I’ve loved every minute,” she declared. ” I’ll carry on playing these sexy women for as long as I can.”

Emily said that shooting the infamous naked tennis scene alongside Alex Hassell as Rupert had been great fun. Alex said that many discussions had taken place over whether or not he should wear a prosthetic over his privates for the scene, but in the end he’d decided to go without.

Emily declared that she had had a bit of help for that particular scene. “I had a stick on muff,” she laughed. “A murkin, it’s called. A proper 80s bush – I felt like I had furry knickers on. It’s so jarring seeing yourself like that.”

But the actress said she’d soon got used to it. “I didn’t want to put my clothes back on! I did a couple of cartwheels.”

Emily, 35, said part of the appeal of playing Sarah, was that while she is flawed, she also also has vulnerabilities that were recognised. “These types of women are never written with nuance,” she said. “I am her, I am a flawed woman, I’ve made terrible decisions in my love life – so I wasn’t scared to identify with her. Her bad behaviour isn’t being celebrated, but it’s being understood.”

Bella McClean, whose character Taggie O’Hara found love with Rupert in the final episode of series one, revealed she was so pleased with her audition as Taggie – and chemistry with Alex – that she walked straight into a wall afterwards.

The actress she had enjoyed playing a character who was so wholesome and good, it had made her take a look at her own life and decisions. She loved the long, simmering build-up to the romance between Taggie and Rupert, saying: “They see though all the crap and just adore each other for who they are,” she explained. “It’s about their love.”

The show’s creator Dominic Treadwell-Collins said that Jilly Cooper had told him early on how she expected the male heroes of her 1980s books to behave. He said: “She told me ‘my men don’t cry’. My men are macho.”

Dominic added: “We are utterly thrilled to have Hayley and Rupert join us to play Jilly Cooper’s legendary characters Helen and Malise Gordon. Alongside our other new wonderful actors and truly brilliant returning cast, Rivals series two absolutely showcases the best of British and Irish talent. We can’t wait for everyone to see what’s next for the residents of Rutshire.”

Disney boss Lee Mason said he was also thrilled that Everett and Atwell were joining the cast. “They are a perfect match for the world of Rutshire, so lovingly created by Dame Jilly and the team at Happy Prince.”

Rivals is filming in the UK until February and is expected to return, for an extended season of twelve episodes, later in 2026.

Set against the backdrop of the Cotswolds countryside and the glamorous, high-stakes world of 1980s British television, the second run will see the return of the all-star cast including Danny Dyer, Katherine Parkinson, Aidan Turner and David Tennant.

Next time around viewers will find that many careers, marriages and reputations hang in the balance as personal and professional lives collide in a world where secrets can’t stay hidden for long.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

Pirating, as evidenced by centuries of stories and one of the greatest theme park rides, has long fascinated. Seafaring and sword fighting imply adventure. Dice games? Bluffing and strategy. And if you’re really lucky, maybe you’ll find a mermaid.

Audience members seen during a production of “Pirates Wanted,” an interactive production from Last Call Theatre.

(Gabriella Angotti-Jones/The Los Angeles Times)

Last Call Theatre, a local interactive-focused performance group, has found a way to give us a taste of buccaneering — without the pesky consequences of being captured by the Royal Navy or succumbing to a rum-induced liver disease.

For one more weekend in Long Beach, theatergoers can live out a mini marauding fantasy on an actual ship at “Pirates Wanted,” a limited-run revival of the troupe’s 2024 show. It’s theater, but it’s also a choose-your-own-adventure-style game, one with branching narratives, multiple endings and even life lessons.

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The show is set on board the American Pride tall ship docked at Long Beach’s Pine Avenue Pier, a 130-foot schooner that today is primarily used as an education-focused vessel. Stand still and feel the lean and long boat gently rock on the waves. But you’ll rarely be stationary on the wood-heavy craft. With a cast of 14 and an audience capacity of 55, “Pirates Wanted” explores the full top deck of the ship, which is accessible via a small portable stairway.

The setup: As audience members, we are to be trained as pirates in 17th century England, with much of the cast performing in exaggerated accents. The drama: Our captain’s previous ship was marooned under suspicious circumstances. To complicate matters, a long-lost sibling, also a pirate with his own troubling history, is here to judge the crew’s seaworthiness. The show begins with a speech from Capt. Souvanna (Bonnie-Lynn Montaño), who sternly demands a vocal “aye” from the audience as the ground rules are laid out. Follow them, Souvanna warns, or risk being thrown into the harbor.

Captain Souvanna (Bonnie-Lynn Montaño) and Captain Draken (Shelby Ryan Lee) share a moment during immersive theater production “Pirates Wanted.”

In moments, we are free to wander and link up with various crew members for our pirating lessons. The so-called “treasures of the seas” aren’t going to be pillaged without our help, and I soon find myself improvising sea shanties and engaging in a game of liar’s dice. I stumble over relearning how to construct a knot — important, I am told, in case I’m tossed overboard and need to quickly lasso myself to a raft — but have better luck mimicking a figure 8 with my sword. We have tasks to complete — or games to play, rather — which are ultimately an excuse for conversation.

Ask a roaming bard about the previous ship’s fate and a host of stories start to unravel and reveal themselves — love affairs, hidden secrets, lost maps and the requisite discontentment among the ship’s keep. What would a pirate narrative be without talk, for instance, of mutiny?

Oats Weetle (Mads Durbin) climbs a mast during a dramatic scene in “Pirates Wanted.”

“Pirates Wanted” is heavily active, and one won’t discover all of the show’s narrative paths. Wander, for instance, to a compartment at the ship’s bow, and you may hear conspiratorial whispers. Hang in the aft, and there might be talk of a siren on board. I saw others with treasure maps, and only caught murmurs of the romantic soap operas unfolding among the crew. Love letters were lost and recovered, and at one point I was pulled aside, a pirate whispering to me to ask if there was an illicit affair on board between a member of the crew and the British Navy.

Audience members take in “Pirates Wanted.”

Like all of Last Call’s shows, there are multiple ways to watch — or play. One can opt to be a relatively passive observer trying to overhear conversations and uncover the various storylines. But it’s advised to lean in, to hop from character to character armed with questions and the willingness to go on assigned quests. Here, the latter rely heavily on gossip. Early on I was tasked, for instance, with asking the various pirates about their feelings over losing their last ship, only I was told not to use the word “feel” in my line of questioning (after all, one must trick a pirate into vulnerability).

Throughout, “Pirates Wanted” explores how to navigate complicated family drama and romantic relationships when value systems — you know, looting and pillaging versus not — don’t align. There are metaphors if you go looking for them, specifically on having to live much of one’s life in the closet, but “Pirates Wanted” places a heavy emphasis on silliness too.

Last Call over the last three years has established itself as one of the more prolific companies on the city’s immersive theater scene, regularly hosting two or three shows per year. The troupe has already announced a winter time traveling production, “The Butterfly Effect,” set to debut Nov. 8 at Stella Coffee near Beverly Hills. “Pirates Wanted” last year became one of Last Call’s best reviewed productions.

Throughout “Pirates Wanted” audience members will be tasked with quests, sometimes seeking hidden items.

“It definitely was our most critically and financially successful show we put on,” says Ashley Busenlener, Last Call’s executive director. “Who doesn’t like pirates on an actual ship?”

“Pirates Wanted” leans campy, a vision of the lifestyle more informed by Disneyland’s Pirates of the Caribbean than any historical fiction. It also tackles subject matter not often seen in pirate tales, such as feelings of being misunderstood and the struggle to be one’s true self.

“One of the things that I often notice about pirate media is a lot of the time you see pirates and the majority of time they are white men,” Busenlener says. “That’s not who I think I pirates are. We were very intentional … in creating a cast that we felt represented what piracy should be.”

In turn, many of the actors are female, queer and hail from diverse backgrounds. The goal, says Busenlener, was to show that anyone can be a pirate.

“Pirates are the people who were outside of society,” Busenlener says. “They were breaking rules and laws and taking power into their own hands. That’s something we wanted to reflect.”

There are multiple story tracks in one “Pirates Wanted.” In one, captain Souvanna (Bonnie-Lynn Montaño) may face a mutiny.

And it’s represented in one of the show’s most affecting narrative branches, one in which a half-mermaid spent their life presenting only as human out of fear. It’s intimate drama laced with mysticism, an adult theme ultimately handled with a hint of levity for this family-friendly show.

It also gets to the heart of Last Call’s ambitious with “Pirates Wanted.” Come for the swashbuckling — and the chance to learn some sword-fighting moves — but stay for the emotional adventure. Just don’t be surprised if you leave the pier suddenly talking in a fake British accent.

Tall ship the American Pride in Long Beach, home for one more weekend to immersive theater show “Pirates Wanted.”

Cast members of a popular TV sitcom featuring two gay characters are stepping out of their fictional roles to deliver a real-life message, urging voters to defeat a March ballot initiative aimed at banning recognition of same-sex marriages in California.

The four stars of NBC’s hit show “Will and Grace,” which draws about 13 million viewers a week, have filmed a television ad charging that Proposition 22 would legalize discrimination against gays and lesbians.

Just under 30 seconds long, the ad will hit the airwaves in January in California’s biggest cities. Opponents of the initiative say that they will spend at least $1 million on television time for the spot.

“I think it’s a particularly ugly proposition, and while I don’t do a lot of preaching in front of the camera, with my series I’m blessed with the ability to make a difference in some way,” said Max Mutchnick, co-creator and co-executive producer of the offbeat comedy. “Fortunately, I’m surrounded by actors who feel as strongly about this as I do.”

It is not unusual for celebrities to champion a political cause. In recent years, actors have spoken publicly about everything from noisy leaf blowers to animal rights, famine relief and breast cancer research. NBC’s “The More You Know” campaign uses network stars to deliver all manner of pitches, from anti-drug warnings to advice on effective parenting.

But it is rare–and some say potentially risky–for the entire cast of a show to take a position on a specific ballot initiative, especially a controversial one.

“When Ted Danson talks about pollution in the ocean, no one is going to say, ‘How dare he,’ ” said Scott Seomin, entertainment media director of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. “But this is different. . . . It’s not a safe issue to speak against.”

Mutchnick, who wrote the ad, said he was moved to speak because he views the “rhetoric surrounding the initiative as very mean-spirited.” Although he could have written a large check for the opposition campaign, the producer said he wanted to “be a little more involved” and figured an ad was a natural fit.

As for the potential risk, Mutchnick was careful to point out that the network played no role in the ad: “We are not speaking for NBC in any way. This was my cost, my time and the actors’ time.”

NBC was quick to echo that: “This is something that the cast chose to do personally and does not reflect NBC’s beliefs at all,” said network spokeswoman Shirley Powell.

Opponents of Proposition 22 hailed the ad as a boon for their campaign, saying that it will help deliver their message to a younger audience whose votes they need to defeat the measure.

Mike Marshall, manager of the opposition campaign, said he hopes the ad will educate and motivate young voters, who are less likely than others to go to the polls–especially in a primary election like the one March 7.

“Will and Grace” has a “huge audience and is a very cutting-edge television show,” Marshall said. “The fact that all of the cast and the producer are willing to take a position on this initiative will help many people who are in the middle take a second look and figure out it’s unfair, divisive and discriminatory.”

A spokesman for the Protection of Marriage Committee, the initiative’s sponsoring group, called the ad a predictable use of “Hollywood liberals who have been attacking traditional family values for decades.”

The spokesman, Robert Glazier, also disputed the ad’s claim that the initiative is a discriminatory attack on “basic civil rights.” The measure is “not about discriminating against anybody,” he said. “It’s simply a reaffirmation of the importance of a man and a woman in marriage.”

Analysts said the use of celebrities in political campaigns can be helpful in putting an issue on the map. But they questioned how influential the spot would be.

“Initiatives usually succeed or fail based on the merits, the substance of the issue,” said Don Sipple, a veteran Republican media strategist. He added that although celebrities can give an issue recognition in the marketplace, they aren’t used extensively in political ads.

“That’s because the most effective spokesperson is usually someone who is viewed as credible on the issue,” Sipple said. “So the most they can hope for may be getting people’s attention.”

Now in its second season, “Will and Grace” chronicles the relationship between unattached, handsome, gay Manhattan attorney Will Truman (Eric McCormack) and single, beautiful, straight interior designer Grace Adler (Debra Messing). Thrown into the mix are Will’s flamboyantly gay pal Jack (Sean Hayes), and Grace’s sharp-tongued assistant, Karen (Megan Mullally).

The straightforward ad features a tight shot of all four actors, the men standing behind the women, in a studio. The script says that the vote on Proposition 22 is about basic civil rights and urges voters to “make a difference [and] . . . say no to discrimination by voting no on Knight.”

Knight is a reference to state Sen. William J. “Pete” Knight, author of the initiative that would bar legal recognition of marriage in California. No state now permits gay marriages, but court cases pending in several states could make it a reality soon. Initiative backers seek to ensure that gay and lesbian couples who might someday wed elsewhere cannot move to California and become eligible for property inheritance and other marital benefits.

Sponsors of the measure have yet to air any ads, and would not divulge their strategy. Glazier would say only that the television campaign will “emphasize the importance of keeping marriage as a union between a man and a woman.”

Brookside was the gritty soap that shocked the nation, smashed taboos, and made suburban cul-de-sacs the stage for explosive drama. But what happened to the cast?

Brookside, the groundbreaking soap that shocked the nation and turned ordinary suburban streets into a hotbed of drama, was a staple of British television for over two decades.

The show, which first aired on Channel 4 on 2 November 1982, followed the everyday lives of its characters, dealing with everything from heart-wrenching break-ups to shocking crimes that reflected real issues in the UK. The Liverpool-based soap ran for an impressive 21 years before its final episode aired on 4 November 2003.

Created by Phil Redmond, Brookside was never one to shy away from controversial topics – it was responsible for the UK’s first pre-watershed lesbian kiss and tackled subjects such as domestic abuse, incest, and even a body buried under a patio.

Now, the beloved soap is poised for a comeback – featuring in an unprecedented crossover with Hollyoaks.

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After Brookside concluded on November 4th 2003, Hollyoaks stepped up as Channel 4‘s premier continuing drama. The show began production on a portion of Brookside’s former set, which remains its filming location to this day.

As Hollyoaks gears up to celebrate its 30th anniversary this October, it plans to commemorate the occasion with a special episode that pays homage to both Brookside and their shared creator, Sir Phil Redmond.

The upcoming crossover episode will delight viewers with the reappearance of beloved, classic Brookside characters to celebrate this significant event.

But what became of the Brookside cast once the cameras stopped rolling? From heartbreaking losses to surprising career changes, here’s a look at where some of the show’s biggest stars ended up.

Dean Sullivan (Jimmy Corkhill)

Jimmy, a troubled drug addict turned teacher, was one of Brookside’s longest-serving characters. Portrayed by Dean Sullivan, he joined the series in 1986 and was involved in many major storylines.

Tragically, Dean passed away in 2023 at the age of 68 after a battle with prostate cancer, a diagnosis he had bravely shared just months before his death. He had been diagnosed in 2018 and had been receiving treatment.

Following his passing, fans and former co-stars paid their respects.

Sue Jenkins (Jackie Corkhill)

Jackie Corkhill, played by Sue Jenkins, was the long-suffering wife of Jimmy Corkhill, enduring his emotional turmoil and schemes in many of the show’s most gripping storylines.

Since the end of the show, Sue has continued her acting career with roles in Coronation Street, Holby City, and Doctors, as well as theatre productions. Now 66, she is a vocal advocate for arts education and is married to David Fleeshman, with whom she has three children, Richard, Emily and Rosie.

Anna Friel (Beth Jordache)

Beth Jordache, portrayed by Anna Friel, became a cultural icon when she was involved in the first pre-watershed lesbian kiss on British television, a storyline that made international headlines. The episode aired in January 1994, also featuring Margaret Clemence, played by Nicola Stephenson.

Anna has since built a highly successful acting career on both sides of the Atlantic, starring in shows like Pushing Daisies, Marcella, and The Girlfriend Experience. Now 48, she is an award-winning actress and a regular on the red carpet.

She has been married twice and has one child.

Claire Sweeney (Lindsey Corkhill)

Claire Sweeney played Lindsey Corkhill, a member of the troubled Corkhill family, who found herself caught up in love triangles, dodgy dealings, and emotional confrontations. Lindsey started as a recurring character before being promoted to the regular cast in 1995.

Actress Claire shot to fame following Brookside, transitioning into musical theatre, releasing an album, and becoming a Loose Women panellist. She has recently made a comeback to the soap world with a stint on Coronation Street.

Earlier this year, Claire delighted Brookside enthusiasts as she returned to the West Derby houses where the programme was originally filmed. The 53-year-old shared numerous photographs and videos on Instagram from her impromptu nostalgic journey.

In her Instagram video, Claire revealed to followers that whilst she had visited the location the previous year, she had spotted a “beautiful little surprise” beneath the Brookside sign commemorating Dean Sullivan, who portrayed her on-screen father Jimmy.

Michael Starke (Sinbad Sweeney)

Sinbad Sweeney was a window cleaner with a heart of gold. He became a viewer favourite after joining the programme in 1984.

Actor Michael Starke subsequently featured in The Royal, Coronation Street, and even enjoyed a role in Benidorm. He has also established himself as a pantomime regular and serves as a dedicated ambassador for Liverpool’s cultural scene.

Now 67, his latest role saw him portray a taxi driver in Hollyoaks from 2021 to 2023.

Jennifer Ellison (Emily Shadwick)

Emily’s storyline concluded in devastating fashion, with her character’s tragic plunge from a window ranking among Brookside’s most shocking departures. Actress Jennifer switched gears to pop music, reality TV (Dancing on Ice, Hell’s Kitchen), and theatre, before launching her own dance academy in Liverpool.

She also starred in the West End and now leads a quieter life centred around family.

She is married to Rob Tickle and they have three children.

Louis Emerick (Mick Johnson)

Mick Johnson was the straight-talking single dad and mini-mart owner with a strong moral compass. He made his final appearance on 22 August 2001, having first appeared in 1989.

Actor Louis Emerick, 64, has continued his acting career in TV dramas and soaps, including Coronation Street and Doctors, and has performed in theatre tours across the UK.

Where are the others?

Several cast members left the industry altogether – some moved abroad, others stepped away from the limelight. A few, like Ray Quinn (who briefly appeared in the later years), reinvented themselves entirely.

Ray went on to become a singer and X Factor finalist, with a stage career.

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Heartbeat was a staple of British television for nearly two decades. So what happened to the likes of Nick Berry, Tricia Penrose, and Mark Jordan after the North Yorkshire-based show ended?

The beloved ITV series spanned 18 seasons, and despite ending in 2010, the long-standing police period drama Heartbeat is still a cornerstone of British television to this day.

Airing for nearly two decades, the show spawned numerous spin-offs and one-off television specials, which is a true reflection of its popularity with viewers.

Fans followed the lives of those who lived in the fictional North Yorkshire village of Aidensfield during the 1960s and the well-respected local policemen and villagers as they grappled with crime, community tensions, and personal dramas.

In the very beginning, we were met with the charming PC Nick Rowan, played by Nick Berry, who was attempting to adapt to his new rural lifestyle after moving from London and joining the Yorkshire force.

With the show off air for more than 15 years now, we couldn’t help but wonder what the actors of the much-loved programme are doing today.

PC Nick Rowan

Nick Berry portrayed the renowned London police constable who relocated to the fictional town of Aidensfield, North Yorkshire, to live a more peaceful life after fleeing bustling London.

He moved to the village alongside his wife, Dr. Kate Rowan, and the pair very quickly became vital members of the town, helping to tackle crime and assisting with medical emergencies.

Notably, Nick also performed the show’s iconic theme tune, a cover of the Buddy Holly hit that shared its title with the show also helped to rocket his fame with the track reaching number two in the UK singles charts in 1992.

In 1998, viewers were left gutted when his character was written out of the beloved programme. The policeman decided to flee for Canada to join the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, which formed the basis for the one-off special Heartbeat: Changing Places.

He went on to further his acting career, taking on a vital role in the 1999 drama series Harbour Lights and starring in the 2001 crime drama In Deep.

After In Deep finished in 2003, Nick announced he’d be taking a break from acting to focus on his family and other ventures, including his own production company.

Prior to landing his role as Nick Berry on the popular ITV series, he’d actually played the part of Simon Wicks on BBC One’s hit soap EastEnders.

Despite taking a break from acting, he did go on to make a special appearance as his former character, Simon, in 2012, which was his last and final TV stint since being on screens from 1976.

It is well documented that Nick married Rachel Robertson in 1994. The pair like to keep their private lives out of the spotlight. They share two sons and live in Epping, Essex.

Gina Bellamy

The landlady of the Aidensfield Arms, Gina Bellamy, was played by Tricia Penrose from 1993 until the ITV drama came to its end in 2010.

Tricia played a vital role and was the show’s longest-serving female cast member. Not only was Gina a popular fixture on the programme for 60s fashion and her incredible acting skills, but she also gave fans some amazing vocal performances during her long-standing career

In 2002, Tricia followed the path of her co-star Nick Berry and tried her hand in the singing world. She placed second on the show A Song For Europe, the UK’s competition to select their Eurovision entry.

Despite her song DJ Romeo being a huge hit with fans and judges, she was pipped to first place by Jessica Garlick, who represented Great Britain that year in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Her last notable acting role was in the popular legal drama Justice in 2011, but she has also appeared in series 11 of Celebrity Big Brother and ITV’s Who’s Doing the Dishes in 2014.

Tricia also got engaged to her on-screen love interest, PC Phil Bellamy, and the twosome recently announced their engagement on social media.

The actress shared: “My lovely Chris has proposed on our 7 year anniversary! Off to Tenerife now with my lovely fiancé to celebrate Mark Jordon.”

PC Phil Bellamy

Mark Jordan played the charming, laid-back PC Phil Bellamy, who worked alongside Nick Berry and fell in love with Gina, not only on screen but also in real life.

He joined the show for its first series in 1992 and remained in the cast for fifteen years. A one-off documentary commemorating his departure, Heartbeat – Farewell Phil, was broadcast on Christmas Day in 2007.

After his departure, Mark took up roles in medical drama Casualty in 2009 and joined Hollyoaks in 2012.

He also became a series regular in Emmerdale in 2017, taking the role of Staff Sergeant Daz Spencer.

In his spare time, Mark is devoted to his charity work for Usher syndrome and often uses his social media pages to raise awareness, in the hope of finding a cure

Alf Ventress

William Simons landed the accolade for the longest-standing member of the Heartbeat tribe, delighting viewers with his portrayal of the retired policeman for a complete 18-season journey.

Before his role on the ITV drama, William appeared in the police drama Cribb in 1979 and the detective series The Inspector Alleyn Mysteries in 1990.

His acting contributions also included various cameo appearances on programmes such as Coronation Street, The Darling Buds of May, Casualty, and Enemy at the Door.

In 2019, it was announced that William had tragically died at the age of 79 of “natural causes” with his management agency paying tribute.

They said: “He was a wonderful, kind, warm, witty, lovely human being and anyone who ever worked with him or knew him will be devastated.”

Claude Jeremiah Greengrass

Every Heartbeat fan had a love-hate relationship with the charming scoundrel Claude Jeremiah Greengrass, played by the talented Bill Maynard.

He joined the programme from its very inception and remained a valued part of the cast until 2000, when his character returned for the Royal spin-off series in 2002.

Before his days on Heartbeat, Bill had already been somewhat of a TV legend as an actor and comedian and having starred in Great Scott – It’s Maynard! the 50s with Terry Scott, and featured in five pictures from the Carry On comedy series.

In 2018, we saw Bill in his last TV appearance, taking part in the Celebrity Pointless, before his tragic death in the same year.

Bill’s last TV appearance was on an episode of Celebrity Pointless in 2018, before he suffered a tragic fall, breaking his hip, and later sadly died that same year in hospital.

Dr. Kate Rowan

Niamh Cusack played the lovable Dr. Kate Rowan, the village doctor and first wife of heartthrob Nick Berry. But after three years on the show, she fell pregnant and decided to leave the ITV drama to focus on becoming a new mum.

In real life, Niamh was born into a family with deep roots within the performing arts industry and is affiliated to the Royal Shakespeare Company, she played Desdemona in Othello and Juliet in Romeo and Juliet during the 80s.

She also landed the role of Lady Macbeth in 2018 alongside Christopher Eccleston in Macbeth. She has recently appeared in We Live in Time, last year, 2024, alongside Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, as well as the dark comedy series Big Mood, also in 2024.

Heartbeat is still available to stream on ITVX.

The cast of the terrifying new Alien series have admitted they weren’t particularly scared of the iconic space menace on set for one simple reason

Alien: Earth’s cast have revealed the man inside the iconic Xenomorph suit was anything but frightening behind the scenes.

Created by award-winning Fargo showrunner Noah Hawley, the new FX series, premiering this week on Disney+ in the UK, serves as a prequel to Ridley Scott’s sci-fi nightmare from 1979.

The series’ ensemble cast includes newcomers and familiar faces, including Timothy Olyphant, Sydney Chandler, Alex Lawther and Babou Ceesay.

Of course, no entry in the Alien franchise is complete without the terrifying titular extraterrestrials and Hawley has emphasised a return to visceral practical effects to bring the horror to life.

Previewing the series at Alien: Earth’s London premiere, the cast revealed performer Cameron Brown was primarily inside the classic black suit that’s been horrifying fans for over 40 years.

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“It was Cameron Brown, who’s a vegan,” Ceesay shared. “Dressed in an eight-foot suit.

“Snarling in your face, K-Y jelly dripping out of his mouth. Yeah, scary.”

However, Ceesay and the rest of the cast couldn’t help giggling as they fondly remembered their time with Brown on set.

Lawther added: “It’s really easy to run away scared from a Xenomorph when it’s really a man who’s a Xenomorph chasing you.”

The cast also revealed their alien-suited co-star would frequently take breaks to munch on carrot sticks and hummus, in stark contrast to his flesh-eating screen persona.

During a panel discussion at Comic-Con’s Hall H, lead actress Chandler previously admitted she was “giddy” to be chased by a Xenomorph, calling Brown “the sweetest person in the world“, per GoldDerby.

And Lawther agreed at the time: “There’s something hysterical about the fearsomeness of the Xenomorph, but then he takes off his head, and he’s from New Zealand, and he doesn’t eat meat.

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“If you think me and Sydney are soft-spoken, just wait till you meet the Xenomorph.”

Die-hard fans of the original film by director Ridley Scott, as well as its subsequent sequels, will be thrilled to discover that Hawley relied on practical effects and sets as often as possible.

Elaborating on the advantages of practical techniques versus CGI, he explained: “I think it’s meaningful, both to the cast and, I think audiences know when something’s real or not real.

“We’ve gotten very good at tricking them, but, usually, what you need is some realistic element in the shot.

“The thing with horror is your imagination does most of the work for you, so you don’t want to see the monster for too long. You want to see the shadows, you want to see the open door.

“The shot is half a second and you’ve got a tail on a fishing line and that’s probably gonna work, you know what I mean?”

Critics are saying the Alien franchise is better than ever with the new TV prequel, but will it win fans over who think the Xenomorphs should have stayed in space? Find out soon.

Alien: Earth premieres Wednesday, 13th August on Disney+.

For a limited time only, witness the first stage of the life cycle of the Xenomorph up close with a thrilling new display at London’s Natural History Museum.

Visitors can touch real pieces of the solar system at the Museum’s blockbuster exhibition, Space: Could Life Exist Beyond Earth?, and discover more about one of pop culture’s most iconic and frightening creatures just by the entrance until Friday, 22nd August.

Alien: Earth is the latest instalment in the Alien franchise and is set to arrive on Disney+ in just a week’s time

Alien: Earth, the eagerly awaited TV extension of the iconic Alien franchise, takes its cues from Ridley Scott’s seminal 1979 horror film.

Hot on the heels of last year’s Alien: Romulus, the blood-curdling space thriller is back with a vengeance, offering another chilling perspective on the lethal Xenomorphs.

This eight-part series springs from the creative genius of showrunner Noah Hawley, celebrated for his work on Fargo and Legion, both critically lauded reinterpretations of the Coen Brothers’ eponymous film and the X-Men universe.

Hawley is gearing up to unveil his latest FX collaboration shortly, with Alien: Earth set to land on Disney+ and Hulu in just a week’s time, ready to send shivers down the spines of fans across the globe.

As the new series stands on the brink of becoming another streaming sensation, let’s delve into what we know so far about this enigmatic extension of the Alien narrative, reports the Express.

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When does Alien: Earth hit our screens?

The opening two episodes of Alien: Earth are slated for release on Tuesday, 12th August on FX and FX on Hulu stateside.

However, British viewers will have to exercise a bit more patience as the episodes will be available the following day, Wednesday 13th August, on Disney+.

The remainder of the inaugural season will then unfold episodically, with fresh episodes dropping every Tuesday in the US and Wednesdays in the UK.

So far, four episodes have been given official titles, kicking off with the two-part opener Neverland and Mr. October, followed by Metamorphosis and Observation.

Who is in the cast of Alien: Earth?

The series boasts a star-studded cast led by up-and-coming actress Sydney Chandler, who portrays Wendy, a synthetic body imbued with human consciousness, referred to as a hybrid.

Chandler, daughter of Hollywood star Kyle Chandler, is recognised for her performance in Don’t Worry Darling and last year’s Colin Farrell-fronted thriller, Sugar.

Other big names include Deadwood’s Timothy Olyphant as Kirsh, a synthetic, and Andor’s Alex Lawther as CJ ‘Hermit’, Wendy’s human brother and a medic.

The main cast also comprises:

• Samuel Blenkin as Boy Kavalier, the human CEO of the Prodigy Corporation
• Essie Davis as Dame Silvia, a human
• Adarsh Gourav as Slightly, a hybrid
• Kit Young as Tootles, a hybrid
• David Rysdahl as Arthur, a human scientist and Dame Silvia’s husband
• Babou Ceesay as Morrow, a cyborg (human with some synthetic parts) security officer
• Jonathan Ajayi as Smee, a hybrid
• Erana James as Curly, a hybrid
• Lily Newmark as Nibs, a hybrid
• Diêm Camille as Siberian, a human soldier
• Adrian Edmondson as Atom Eins

The series will additionally feature Moe Bar-El, Sandra Yi Sencindiver, Richa Moorjani, Karen Aldridge, Enzo Cilenti, Max Rinehart, Amir Boutrous, Victoria Masoma, Tom Moya, Andy Yu, Michael Smiley, Jamie Bisping and Tanapol Chuksrida in supporting roles.

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What happens in Alien: Earth?

While most plot details remain shrouded in mystery, fans can glean a rough idea of what the first season holds from its brief synopsis.

Confirmed as a prequel set two years prior to the original Alien film, it sees a terrifying alien menace pitted against an unlikely band of heroes following a catastrophic collision with Earth.

The synopsis teases: “When the space vessel Maginot crash-lands on Earth, a young woman and a ragtag group of tactical soldiers make a discovery that puts them face-to-face with the planet’s biggest threat.”

Is there a trailer for Alien: Earth?

Eager Alien fans can now feast their eyes on the thrilling new series with a two-minute trailer that dropped in early June.

The gripping teaser, launched with the ominous words “We were safer in space”, introduces Wendy’s character as the first-ever hybrid leading a squad of synthetic-humans on a daring rescue mission in the wake of the Maginot’s downfall.

Moreover, the trailer unveils a pivotal twist for the Alien saga, revealing that the Xenomorph wasn’t the only creature aboard the ship; four other entities from the “darkest corners of the universe” are also set to unleash chaos on Earth.

Alien: Earth premieres Tuesday, 12th August on FX and FX on Hulu and Wednesday, 13th August on Disney+.

It felt like 2022 all over again when Josh Gad took to Instagram to express his heartbreak about contracting a “virus known as COVID” and announce his decision to pull out of playing King Herod in the highly anticipated production of “Jesus Christ Superstar” at the Hollywood Bowl, which staged its first night of a three-night run Friday.

Gad hinted that maybe — if he tested negative — the situation might change. The following day, however, John Stamos announced on social media that his weekend “just got biblical” and that he was stepping in for Gad in the show.

On Friday, things got extra dramatic when Gad said that he had tested negative. Fans on his social media clamored to know what that might mean, but he stayed mum until Saturday when he posted a photo of himself in an elaborate gold lamé costume with the words, “See you all Sunday night.”

A rep for the Los Angeles Philharmonic said that final confirmation that Gad will step onto stage won’t come until noon Sunday.

Stamos appeared onstage as Herod on Friday night, bringing some comic relief to an electric, deeply emotional show.

After one of star Cynthia Erivo’s solos, the audience clapped so loud, long and reverently, that tears came to the singer’s eyes — which only caused the crowd to cheer harder. The moment of symbiotic love lasted for at least 3 minutes, maybe more.

The Bowl was packed with marquee names, including former Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, Jim Carrey and Ted Neely (who played Jesus in the 1973 film adaptation of the musical). Erivo brought composer Andrew Lloyd Webber onto the stage as a special guest during curtain call.

Still, Gad fans were many — you could tell because they held Olaf dolls and wore Olaf jewelry — and they could be heard expressing their sorrow at the absence of Gad in the crush of the crowd after the show.

Gad’s addition to the cast, which included Erivo as Jesus, Adam Lambert as Judas and Phillipa Soo as Mary Magdalene, was hailed by fans; and in an interview with The Times during rehearsal, Gad spoke about being beyond excited to perform at the Bowl for the very first time with a stellar cast that he called the Avengers of musical theater.

“I’ve wanted to play the Hollywood Bowl forever,” said Gad. “But I never thought I was good enough to play the Hollywood Bowl,” he added with a self-deprecating smile

Even though the role of King Herod entails a single song — a kind of comic interlude that Gad likened to the part of King George in “Hamilton” — Gad showed up at as many rehearsals as possible before he came down with COVID. He just liked sitting on the sidelines, soaking up the scene and the incredible talent on display, he said.

At a Saturday rehearsal before the show, he filmed numbers on phones for various cast members and cheered his heart out. His sense of excitement was palpable. Now he’ll get one night to give “King Herod’s Song” his all.

A new teaser trailer for upcoming historical thriller Nuremberg has left film fans with chills as they’re all saying the same thing about the upcoming World War II drama

Film enthusiasts have been left spellbound by the debut trailer for an eagerly awaited World War II drama that promises to be utterly compelling.

Boasting a stellar ensemble of British and Hollywood stars, this gripping thriller will delve into one of the most pivotal post-war moments in unprecedented detail.

No Time to Die and Oppenheimer actor Rami Malek takes on the role of American psychiatrist Douglas Kelley in the Sky Original production Nuremberg, the specialist charged with evaluating one of Adolf Hitler’s most loyal Nazi associates.

Prior to the landmark Nuremberg Trials, Kelley was given the responsibility of assessing the psychological state of senior Nazi officials before proceedings could commence.

Gladiator legend Russell Crowe transforms into Hermann Göring, the Nazi military commander and Hitler’s most devoted aide, reports the Express.

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The historical drama’s synopsis states: “The film unfolds as a gripping cat-and-mouse drama.

“Nuremberg features a stellar ensemble cast, including Michael Shannon, Richard E. Grant, and Leo Woodall as translator Howard Triest.

“Set in the shadow of the unimaginable crimes committed during the war, Nuremberg explores the human mind at its most chilling and complex.”

Viewers will undoubtedly be thrilled to witness One Day heartthrob Woodall tackle his most demanding performance to date, appearing dramatically different from his charming romantic comedy persona.

With Nuremberg set to hit UK cinemas this November, cinema-goers have been expressing their excitement, with one particular element of the production capturing widespread attention. Russell Crowe’s latest role as Hermann Göring has certainly caught the attention of movie buffs, with one YouTube user expressing surprise: “I never thought I will see Russell ‘Maximus’ Crowe as Hermann Göring.

“But here we go. Packed with great actors. I put on my watchlist 4 sure.”

Another viewer anticipates the release, replying: “What a great cast, and original storyline. Looking forward to it.”

A third chimes in with praise for the star-studded lineup: “So many excellent actors, it’s going to be awesome,” and adds, “This is how movies should be made.”

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Echoing the enthusiasm, another comments on the film’s visual appeal: “Cast and cinematography look stunning.”

However, not everyone on Reddit shared the same excitement, with some critical of the trailer.

One user didn’t mince words: “I can’t think of anything worse that a bombastic movie about the Nuremberg trial featuring Russell Crowe butchering another accent,” and sarcastically remarked, “Jesus what the hell was this trailer? Bwaaaaaah.”

Another Reddit user was unimpressed by the teaser: “This trailer kinda sucks lol I know it’s a teaser but is it really going to have this weird a** style with that subject matter?”

Yet, even the critics acknowledged the intriguing casting choices: “Very interesting cast though.”

With opinions divided, are you eager to see Nuremberg when it hits cinemas, or will you be skipping this WWII drama?

Nuremberg will be released in UK cinemas on 14th November, 2025.

Adam Lambert sits on a rickety wooden chair just outside the main chapel at the Hollywood United Methodist Church on a break from rehearsing the musical “Jesus Christ Superstar.”

Dressed in beige shorts and a vest with matching mid-calf boots, Lambert wears his trademark glitter eye makeup with thick black liner. He’s calm and collected, content to spend his lunch break chatting, even though the rehearsal schedule is a breakneck nine days total. He chalks up his easygoing demeanor to the high-wattage professionalism of the cast, and his familiarity with the music.

Lambert first heard the soundtrack on one of his dad’s vinyl records when he was about 10 years old.

“I’ve always wanted to do that musical. I’ve always wanted to play Judas,” he says with a smile. “And when they told me Cynthia [Erivo] was interested, I was like, ‘Wow, this is gonna be crazy.’”

Lambert, a fan-favorite “American Idol” runner-up who began performing with Queen in 2011, plays Judas to Erivo’s Jesus in the Hollywood Bowl production directed by Tony-winning choreographer Sergio Trujillo.

Josh Gad, who portrays King Herod, calls the cast “the musical theater version of the Avengers.” He’s referring to Erivo and Lambert, in addition to Phillipa Soo as Mary Magdalene, Milo Manheim as Peter, Raúl Esparza as Pontius Pilate, Tyrone Huntley as Simon and Brian Justin Crum as Annas. The sold-out show runs from Friday to Sunday.

Tyrone Huntley performs as Simon during a rehearsal of “Jesus Christ Superstar” at the Hollywood United Methodist Church in Los Angeles.

(Etienne Laurent / For The Times)

Judging from the ongoing commentary and controversy over the casting on social media, a queer, Black, female actor playing Jesus and a gay actor portraying Judas feel like a revelation to fans grappling with mounting concerns about civil rights in America. Over the last six months, the Trump administration has curtailed diversity, equity and inclusion programs and attempted to roll back key legal protections for certain members of the LGBTQ+ community.

“The challenge for the audience of seeing a female Black Jesus is so exciting. And we all feel the excitement,” says Lambert, adding that the show doesn’t change lyrics or pronouns. “Maybe it doesn’t have to do with male or female. I don’t really know if it matters what gender Jesus was, because it was about the teachings and the love and the connection to faith. So shouldn’t it transcend gender?”

Power — who has it and who doesn’t — has emerged as a defining narrative in 2025. That was also the case 2,000 years ago when Pontius Pilate ordered the crucifixion of Jesus, who posed a serious threat to the religious and political primacy of the Pharisees, the Herodians and the Romans. The 1971 musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice imagines the final days of Jesus’ life, including his agony, before he ultimately accepts his fate.

Gad is keenly aware of the notion of power as historic through-line as he approaches his titular number, “Herod’s Song,” in which the King of Judea coyly mocks Jesus before taking a frightening turn into true menace.

“This is a man who’s so insecure he can’t afford to let Jesus out of his chains in order to actually face him without the help of soldiers around him,” Gad says. “My hope is that I’m getting to bring one of the greatest hypocrites to life in a way that will both make people laugh and also make them recognize that archetype.”

Brian Grohl, left, Josh Gad, Adam Lambert and Sergio Trujillo are bringing “Jesus Christ Superstar” to the Hollywood Bowl.

(Etienne Laurent / For The Times)

The musical was first released as a concept album in 1970 and played at the Hollywood Bowl in 1971, before debuting on Broadway later that year. During its run, protests outside the stage door were commonplace, and although the musical has reached the pinnacle of success over the years, it has remained controversial.

Big summer musicals have been a staple of the Hollywood Bowl since 2000, but the shows went dark due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. With the exception of “Kinky Boots” in 2022, “Jesus Christ Superstar” is the first of what Bowl leaders hope will be an annual resumption of the beloved programming.

“We wanted to make sure that when we came back, it was the most spectacular thing we could do,” says Meghan Umber, president of the Hollywood Bowl and chief programming officer at the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

“Jesus Christ Superstar,” was always at the top of the Bowl’s musical wishlist but wasn’t available until now, adds Brian Grohl, associate director of programming for the L.A. Phil.

“The number of titles that can sustain three nights at the Hollywood Bowl is a narrowed-down list already,” Grohl said, so securing the title resulted in a lot of jumping and shouting around the office. And when it came to who would play Jesus, Umber and Grohl both say Erivo topped the list. Her “yes” made all the others follow.

Adam Lambert performs Saturday during a rehearsal of “Jesus Christ Superstar.”

(Etienne Laurent / For The Times)

Gad calls Erivo — who was not present at a recent rehearsal because of a previous engagement — a “generational talent.” And he’s far from alone. Talk to anyone on the cast or crew and they will immediately hold forth on her extraordinary gifts.

“I see the hand of God in her,” Trujillo says reverently. “Even now, me being in the room with her, I hear it and I see it, and it is transcendent.”

Trujillo decided to go back to the musical’s roots as a concept album and is staging the show as a bare-bones rock concert. Instead of elaborate scenic design, there are black road boxes, microphones and cords. Even the costumes are contemporary with nods to their lineage. A rhythm band will play onstage and a 37-piece orchestra will perform behind a giant LED screen that will create the illusion that the musicians are hovering in the sky above the action.

Keeping the show in the present and infusing it with the raw energy of youth culture was crucial to Trujillo’s vision, he says, adding that in the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll, the musical “reflects the turbulent political times that we’re living in.”

“As I set up each one of the characters, they’re at a microphone singing and then they take the microphone and they step into the scene. I always want to remind the audience that we are in a concert, but we’re also telling the story,” says Trujillo. “Every single person understands the opportunity that we all have to take this monumental story, this monumental score, and to do it justice. So everyone is coming at it with such goodwill and so much joy.”

At a Saturday rehearsal in the church gym, Trujillo’s words ring true. The ensemble cast of more than 20 talented dancers and singers, in sweats and hoodies, run through “What’s the Buzz.” Gad watches and cheers from a table on the sidelines next to conductor and musical director Stephen Oremus, who smiles and nods his head with the beat.

“If you need me to stand in for Jesus, I’ll do it,” Gad jokes.

Phillipa Soo, who plays Mary Magdalene, sings a heartfelt rendition of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him.”

(Etienne Laurent / For The Times)

Lambert mesmerizes the assembled crew and onlookers with a potent rendition of “Heaven on Their Minds” and Soo brings tears with a heartfelt performance of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him.”

“The more time I spend with this musical, the more brilliant I understand it to be,” says Manheim during a brief break. The 24-year-old, who‘s gained a tween following after playing Zed in Disney Channel’s “Zombies” franchise, is part of the youth cohort Trujillo wanted to cast. He wasn’t as familiar with the score as the older cast members — which is part of the point.

“It’s cross-generational,” says Trujillo of the show. “This is the gift that you give to your children and then it just gets passed on.”

A first glimpse at the new period drama has been shared as production begins.

Netflix has officially confirmed the remaining cast for its limited series adaptation of the classic Jane Austen novel, Pride and Prejudice. Austen’s works have been adapted many times for the small screen, including an adaptation for the BBC.

The series, promising to be a “faithful, classic adaptation of the novel”, will see The Diplomat star Rufus Sewell as Mr Bennet, with Freya Mavor as Jane Bennet and Heartstopper alumnus Rhea Norwood as Lydia Bennet.

Rounding off the Bennet sisterhood are newcomers Hollie Avery and Hopey Parish in their debut roles of Kitty and Mary. Louis Partridge will take on Mr Wickham, with Stath Lets Flats star Jamie Demetriou as the pompous Mr Collins.

Last to join the cast is Killing Eve star Fiona Shaw as the fearsome Lady Catherine de Bourg, Daryl McCormack as Mr Bingley and Siena Kelly as Caroline Bingley.

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Pride and Prejudice, one of the most iconic novels of all time, is being adapted into a six-part limited series for the streamer.

Austen’s beloved works have enraptured generations for hundreds of years and her most famous and widely-read novel, Pride and Prejudice has inspired countless writers and filmmakers.

Executive producer Dolly Alderton said: “Once in a generation, a group of people get to retell this wonderful story and I feel very lucky that I get to be a part of it.

“Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is the blueprint for romantic comedy – it has been a joy to delve back into its pages to find both familiar and fresh ways of bringing this beloved book to life.

“With Euros Lyn directing our stellar cast, I am so excited to reintroduce these hilarious and complicated characters to those who count Pride and Prejudice as their favourite book, and those who are yet to meet their Lizzie and Mr Darcy.”

Previously announced stars joining the cast are The Crown’s Emma Corrin and Olivia Colman, and Slow Horses star Jack Lowden.

Also joining the cast are the following:

Anjana Vasan will be Mrs Gardiner

Sebastian Armesto will be Mr Gardiner

Rosie Cavaliero will be Lady Lucas

Saffron Coomber will be Mrs Hurst

James Dryden will be Mr Hurst

Justin Edwards will be Sir William Lucas

James Northcote will be Colonel Forster

Eloise Webb will be Harriet Forster

Isabella Sermon will be Georgiana Darcy

Pride and Prejudice will air on Netflix

The Thursday Murder Club is a British comedy-drama film based on the novel of the same name by Richard Osman

The Thursday Murder Club, a thrilling new film based on Richard Osman’s 2020 novel, is set to hit cinemas and Netflix soon, with the creator himself, who is married to Ingrid Oliver, providing fans with an exciting update.

The film, which features a star-studded cast, follows a group of elderly amateur detectives as they try to crack a murder case.

Filming kicked off in 2024, with none other than Steven Spielberg serving as producer, and Osman has been keeping his followers informed about the latest happenings. Taking to Instagram, he reassured fans that the film would be available both in cinemas and on Netflix, addressing concerns that some might not be able to watch it.

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He announced: “Some very good news for everyone who wanted to see #TheThursdayMurderClub in UK cinemas. Netflix have listened to the clamour, and the film will now have a run in UK cinemas.”

Here’s everything you need to know about the release date, cast and more.

When is The Thursday Murder Club out?

The Thursday Murder Club is set to premiere in UK cinemas on August 22.

It will then be available for streaming on Netflix from August 28, with a runtime of nearly two hours.

Who are the stars of The Thursday Murder Club?

The main four characters, Elizabeth Best, Ron Ritchie, Ibrahim Arif and Joyce Meadowcroft, will be played by Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley and Celia Imrie.

Osman recently addressed the contentious casting of Ron, telling Empire: “You have to do something unusual and different and interesting.

“Here’s the key thing about Pierce Brosnan playing Ron: Pierce Brosnan is who Ron would choose to play Ron.”

Doctor Who legend David Tennant has also been signed up as Ian Ventham, alongside Jonathan Pryce who plays Elizabeth’s other half Stephen.

Naomi Ackie is set to portray PC Donna De Freitas, whilst Daniel Mays takes on DCI Chris Hudson and Henry Lloyd-Hughes stars as Bogdan.

Additional big names joining the production include Richard E. Grant, Tom Ellis, Geoff Bell, Paul Freeman, Sarah Niles and Ingrid Oliver.

Is there a trailer for The Thursday Murder Club?

Viewers get a sneak peek at Cooper’s Chase, the retirement community where the central characters live.

When a killing occurs nearby, Joyce is eager for the group to get involved and crack a fresh case.

Supporters flocked to the comments section to share their enthusiasm, with one posting: “The perfect cast, I am sooooo looking forward to seeing this film, love all the books, get ready to snuggle in and be totally enthralled.”

Someone else commented: “Totally didn’t expect this book series to be adapted by Netflix, really looking forward to this. I hope it’s good. And man this cast is stacked!”.

The Thursday Murder Club will hit UK cinemas on August 22. It will subsequently become available to stream on Netflix from August 28.

SAN DIEGO — Sydney Chandler has wanted to attend San Diego Comic-Con as a fan for years.

So it’s “surreal” that the actor’s first experience with the annual pop culture expo is to promote her upcoming FX series “Alien: Earth.” Chandler stars in the “Alien” prequel as Wendy, a young girl whose consciousness has been transferred to an android.

“To be able to do it in this capacity is just mind-blowing,” she tells The Times in advance of the show’s Hall H premiere on Friday. “It’s emotional because we worked on this for so long and I learned so much. … I’m kind of at a loss of words.”

She does have words of appreciation, though, including for what she’s learned from her character.

“Her journey of finding out how to hold her own and stand on her own two feet taught me so much,” says Chandler. “I’m an overthinker. I’m an anxious person. I would have run so fast. I would not be as brave as her, but she taught me … that it’s OK to just stand on your own two feet, and that’s enough. That’s powerful.”

Even before the show’s Hall H panel, fans have gathered on the sidewalk outside of the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego to catch a glimpse of Chandler and her “Alien: Earth” cast mates Timothy Olyphant, Alex Lawther, Samuel Blenkin and Babou Ceesay, along with creator Noah Hawley and executive producer David Zucker, on their short trek to the bus that would transport them to the convention center for the show’s world premiere.

On the ride over, Hawley betrays no nerves about people seeing the first episode.

“I really think, in a strange way, it plays for all ages because it is about growing up on some level,” says the showrunner. “But it’s also ‘Alien,’ and it is a meditation on power and corporate power. ”

Huddled together on the bus with Lawther and Blenkin, Ceesay is surprised to learn that this is the first time attending San Diego Comic-Con for all three. There’s plenty of good-natured ribbing as they talk about the early interviews they’ve completed at the event.

“I just sort of want to make jokes with you all the time,” says Lawther as he looks towards his cast mates. “I find it quite giddy in the experience, and I had to remind myself that I’m a professional.”

“Sometimes the British sarcasm instinct just kicks in,” Blenkin adds.

Their playful dynamic continues as they joke about crashing Ceesay’s other panel, and also backstage at Hall H as they try to sneak up on each other in the dark.

After the panel, the cast is whisked away for video interviews and signing posters at a fan meet-and-greet at a booth on the exhibit floor. (“Timothy, you’re the man!” shouts a fan passing by.) Later, Hawley, Chandler and Ceesay will hit the immersive “Alien: Earth” activation where they will explore the wreckage of a crashed ship.

“It’s such a safe space for people who just enjoy cinema and enjoy film,” Chandler says of Comic-Con. “And that’s me. I’m a complete nerd for all this stuff, so just to be around that group — it reminds me of why I love film so much in the first place.”

ITV executives are said to be preparing to axe one in 10 cast members from both Coronation Street and Emmerdale as part of fresh cost-cutting measures

ITV chiefs are reportedly planning sweeping cast reductions across their two premier soaps, with proposals to cut one in ten performers as part of new budget-slashing initiatives.

Both Coronation Street and Emmerdale may also witness fewer scenes per episode as ITV seeks to trim an additional £15 million from its overall spending, according to The Sun.

The broadcaster’s earnings have allegedly plummeted by 44 per cent to £99 million during the first six months of the year, sparking a fresh drive to curb production expenses.

Insiders suggest bosses are now pressing soap creators to reduce their escalating costs, with cast sizes being a primary target for scrutiny.

Coronation Street presently features 84 regular cast members, whilst Emmerdale boasts 70, reports the Express.

An insider revealed: “It’s brutal. We’ve known it was on the cards for a while, but they’re really cranking it up now and it’s across the soaps.

“They’re looking to save millions and Corrie and Emmerdale are the obvious places. They’re very expensive shows.

“Many who have been there for a long time are reliant on their income staying as it is.

“The amount of cast has spiralled out of control and focusing on dialogue, not action, could also save money.”

Industry sources have also hinted that the number of scenes per episode – currently averaging around 20 – might be reduced to lower filming expenses.

Fewer personalities could also feature in individual episodes to help maintain tighter budgets.

While some long-standing cast members are on full-time contracts with salaries, most are paid per episode, which means that reducing screen time or overall scenes could significantly cut costs.

These proposed changes come as ITV makes cuts across its daytime schedule. Good Morning Britain, Lorraine, This Morning and Loose Women have all reportedly been affected, with hundreds of staff being made redundant in recent months.

In response to reports of soap cast reductions, an ITV spokesperson stated: “This is complete speculation.”

Scottish detective Karen Pirie is back on our screens for a second season of the ITV drama – here’s everything you need to know about the cast

Karen Pirie is making a comeback to our screens for a second series of the ITV detective drama, welcoming several fresh faces to the cast.

The show initially premiered in 2022, featuring Outlander star Lauren Lyle as the intrepid Scottish detective Karen Pirie.

Drawing inspiration from Val McDermid’s second Inspector Karen Pirie novel, A Darker Domain, the upcoming series will unfold across three episodes.

The official synopsis reveals: “After her bittersweet success in series one, Karen has been promoted to Detective Inspector and seemingly given the authority she has long been fighting for.

“Just as she’s getting into the swing of her powerful new role, she is assigned an infamous unsolved case that will put her under intense scrutiny; from her boss, from the media, and ultimately, from sinister forces that would rather the past stayed in the past,” reports the Express.

Karen Pirie series two cast:

• Lauren Lyle (Outlander) as Karen Pirie
• Chris Jenks (Sex Education) as DC Jason ‘Mint’ Murray
• Zach Wyatt (Timestalker) as DS Phil Parhatka
• Steve John Shepherd (EastEnders) as DCS LEes
• Emer Kenny (EastEnders) as River Wilde
• Rakhee Thakrar (Sex Education) as Bel Richmond
• Saskia Ashdown (Six Four) joins as newcomer DC Isla Stark
• James Cosmo (Braveheart) as Sir Broderick Grant, the father of victim Catriona
• Frances Tomelty (Inspector Morse) as Broderick’s ex-wife Mary
• John Michie (Holby City) as Fergus Sinclair, the father of Catriona’s son Adam
• Julia Brown (World on Fire) as Catriona Grant
• Mark Rowley (One Day) as Mick
• Kat Ronney (Dinosaur) as Bonnie
• Conor Berry (Schemers) as Andy
• Stuart Campbell (The Winter King) as Kevin

The cast also includes Jamie Michie, Madeleine Worrall, Jack Stewart, Thoren Ferguson, and Helen Katamba.

The historical case at the heart of series two centres on the 1984 abduction of wealthy oil heiress Catriona Grant and her two-year-old son Adam.

The pair were snatched at gunpoint outside a chip shop in Fife and vanished without trace, despite widespread media coverage.

When human remains surface with connections to the original abduction – the first breakthrough in decades – Karen and her colleagues face one of their most daunting investigations yet.

“As Karen delves deeper into what happened in the autumn of 1984, political grudges and painful secrets reveal themselves, and it soon becomes clear… the past is far from dead,” the synopsis hints.

Karen Pirie season 2 will air on Sunday, July 20, with the first episode premiering at 8pm on ITV1.

The Narrow Road to the Deep North is set to premiere on BBC One this weekend. Here’s everything you need to know about the highly-anticipated series…

Much-awaited television drama The Narrow Road to the Deep North is poised to debut on BBC One this week.

The Australian miniseries, penned by Shaun Grant and helmed by Justin Kurzel, features Jacob Elordi, Odessa Young, and Ciarán Hinds in leading roles.

The five-episode series, adapted from Richard Flanagan’s acclaimed novel, initially premiered on Amazon Prime in Australia back in April, earning glowing praise from audiences and critics alike.

With The Narrow Road to the Deep North finally reaching British screens, we’ve compiled all the essential details about the programme, covering everything from its stellar cast to its compelling storyline….

What is The Narrow Road to the Deep North about?

The Narrow Road to the Deep North draws its inspiration from Richard Flanagan’s novel bearing the identical title, reports the Express.

The drama follows Dorrigo Evans through three distinct chapters of his existence: his pre-war years before Second World War deployment, his harrowing experience as a prisoner of war in the Far East, and the decades that followed his return home.

Each timeline reveals fresh layers of Dorrigo’s passionate romance with Amy, his uncle’s wife.

The five-part drama explores the “cruelty of war, the tenuousness of life and the impossibility of love” as witnessed by an Australian medic turned prisoner of war.

The opening episode’s synopsis states: “While writing a speech for an upcoming book launch, renowned surgeon and celebrated war hero Dorrigo Evans is thrust back into memories of his time as a POW during World War II and of his brief, unforgettable love affair with Amy Mulvaney.”

The cast

Jacob Elordi and Odessa Young are set to captivate audiences in The Narrow Road to the Deep North, portraying the characters of Dorrigo Evans and Amy Mulvaney.

The star-studded cast also includes Olivia DeJonge, Heather Mitchell, Thomas Weatherall and Ciarán Hinds, alongside Show Kasamatsu, Taki Abe, Charles An and Akira Fujii.

Simon Baker, Masa Yamaguchi, Sean Murphy and George Simitzis are also part of the ensemble, joined by Jack McGreal, Rupert Bevan, Essie Davis, Dan Wyllie and Ewen Leslie.

How to watch

The Narrow Road to the Deep North initially premiered on Amazon Prime Video in Australia, following its debut at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival.

The BBC subsequently acquired the series for UK viewers, set to air on BBC One and available for streaming on iPlayer.

Episodes will start broadcasting from Sunday, 20 July at 9.15pm on BBC One. The series will continue to air weekly on BBC One, with episodes also accessible on iPlayer.

Tune into The Narrow Road to the Deep North every Sunday on BBC One at 9.15pm.

Washington, DC – New media reports in the United States, citing intelligence assessments, have cast doubt over President Donald Trump’s assertion that Washington’s military strikes last month “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear programme.

The Washington Post and NBC News reported that US officials were saying that only one of the three Iranian nuclear sites – the Fordow facility – targeted by the US has been destroyed.

The Post’s report, released on Friday, also raised questions on whether the centrifuges used to enrich uranium at the deepest level of Fordow were destroyed or moved before the attack.

“We definitely can’t say it was obliterated,” an unidentified official told the newspaper, referring to Iran’s nuclear programme.

Trump has insisted that the US strikes were a “spectacular” success, lashing out at any reports questioning the level of damage they inflicted on Iran’s nuclear programme.

An initial US intelligence assessment, leaked to several media outlets after the attack last month, said the strikes failed to destroy key components of Iran’s nuclear programme and only delayed its work by months.

But the Pentagon said earlier in July that the attacks degraded the Iranian programme by one to two years.

While the strikes on Fordow – initially thought to be the most guarded facility, buried inside a mountain – initially took centre stage, the NBC News and Washington Post reports suggested that the facilities in Natanz and Isfahan also had deep tunnels.

‘Impenetrable’

The US military did not use enormous bunker-busting bombs against the Isfahan site and targeted surface infrastructure instead.

A congressional aide familiar with intelligence briefings told the Post that the Pentagon had assessed that the underground facilities at Isfahan were “pretty much impenetrable”.

The Pentagon responded to both reports by reiterating that all three sites were “completely and totally obliterated”.

Israel, which started the war by attacking Iran without direct provocation last month, has backed the US administration’s assessment, while threatening further strikes against Tehran if it resumes its nuclear programme.

For its part, Tehran has not provided details about the state of its nuclear sites.

Some Iranian officials have said that the facilities sustained significant damage from US and Israeli attacks. But Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said after the war that Trump had “exaggerated” the impact of the strikes.

The location and state of Iran’s highly enriched uranium also remain unknown.

Iran’s nuclear agency and regulators in neighbouring states have said they did not detect a spike in radioactivity after the bombings, suggesting the strikes did not result in uranium contamination.

But Rafael Grossi, the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the IAEA, did not rule out that the uranium containers may have been damaged in the attacks.

“We don’t know where this material could be or if part of it could have been under the attack during those 12 days,” Grossi told CBS News last month.

According to Grossi, Iran could resume uranium enrichment in a “matter of months”.

The war

Israel launched a massive attack against Iran on June 13, killing several top military officials, as well as nuclear scientists.

The bombing campaign targeted military sites, civilian infrastructure and residential buildings across the country, killing hundreds of civilians.

Iran responded with barrages of missiles against Israel that left widespread destruction and claimed the lives of at least 29 people.

The US joined the Israeli campaign on June 22, striking the three nuclear sites. Iran retaliated with a missile attack against an air base housing US troops in Qatar.

Initially, Trump said the Iranian attack was thwarted, but after satellite images showed damage at the base, the Pentagon acknowledged that one of the missiles was not intercepted.

“One Iranian ballistic missile impacted Al Udeid Air Base June 23 while the remainder of the missiles were intercepted by US and Qatari air defence systems,” Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell told Al Jazeera in an email last week.

“The impact did minimal damage to equipment and structures on the base. There were no injuries.”

After a ceasefire was reached to end the 12-day war, both the US and Iran expressed willingness to engage in diplomacy to resolve the nuclear file. But talks have not materialised.

Iran and the US were periodically holding nuclear talks before Israel launched its war in June.

EU-Iran talks

During his first term in 2018, Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 multilateral nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

The agreement saw Iran scale back its nuclear programme in exchange for lifting international sanctions against its economy.

In recent days, European officials have suggested that they could impose “snap-back” sanctions against Iran as part of the deal that has long been violated by the US.

Tehran, which started enriching uranium beyond the limits set by the JCPOA after the US withdrawal, insists that Washington was the party that nixed the agreement, stressing that the deal acknowledges Iran’s enrichment rights.

I had a joint teleconference with E3 FMs & EU HR last night, in which I made the following points clear:

It was the US that withdrew from a two-year negotiated deal -coordinated by EU in 2015- not Iran; and it was US that left the negotiation table in June this year and chose a… pic.twitter.com/NFQdK2HZD4

— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) July 18, 2025

On Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said he held talks with the top diplomats of France, the United Kingdom and Germany – known as the E3 – as well as the European Union’s high representative.

Araghchi said Europeans should put aside “worn-out policies of threat and pressure”.

“It was the US that withdrew from a two-year negotiated deal – coordinated by EU in 2015 – not Iran; and it was US that left the negotiation table in June this year and chose a military option instead, not Iran,” the Iranian foreign minister said in a social media post.

“Any new round of talks is only possible when the other side is ready for a fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial nuclear deal.”

Tehran denies seeking a nuclear bomb. Israel, meanwhile, is widely believed to have an undeclared nuclear arsenal.

Kampala, Uganda – Rwanda is in “command and control” of M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda has “unilaterally doubled its military presence” in the DRC, and armed groups – including those aligned to the Congolese government – are committing rights violations against civilians, according to a group of United Nations experts.

An as-yet unpublished report from UN experts on DRC that was leaked to the media and seen by Al Jazeera describes violations by all parties to the conflict and blames neighbouring governments for allegedly exploiting and escalating the current crisis.

The report was submitted to the UN Security Council in May, the Reuters news agency reported. It is expected to be released soon, a UN expert who contributed to the report told Al Jazeera on condition of anonymity, without specifying a date.

While analysts see these reports as an essential tool of accountability, Kigali and Kampala have called the experts biased.

Neither government replied to Al Jazeera’s request for comment about the contents of the report, but both have repeatedly denied the accusations levelled against them.

Meanwhile, the new findings risk putting a damper on the cautious optimism garnered by the signing of a peace deal between Rwanda and the DRC in the US last month, and ongoing Qatar-mediated peace talks between Kinshasa and M23.

Rwanda’s ‘instruction’, control of resources

For years, M23, which the UN says is backed by Rwanda – a charge Kigali denies – has been embroiled in conflict with the Congolese army and its allied militias known as Wazalendo. Early this year, M23 made rapid advances, seizing control of Goma and Bukavu, the capitals of North Kivu and South Kivu, respectively, which it still holds today.

The latest UN experts report – the first since M23’s advance – offers a stark assessment of the conflict, placing blame on Rwanda for facilitating the rapid expansion of the rebel forces.

Rwanda is providing “critical support” to M23, which takes “instructions” from Rwanda’s government and intelligence services, said the report.

In previous reports, the UN experts found there were some 3,000-4,000 Rwandan troops fighting alongside M23 in the DRC.

“One week prior to the [M23] Goma attack, Rwandan officials confidentially informed the Group [of experts] that President Paul Kagame had decided to imminently take control of Goma and Bukavu,” the new report alleged.

Rwanda has repeatedly denied backing M23, while Kigali has sharply criticised the UN experts.

“These reports were written long ago,” President Paul Kagame said at a news conference in Kigali on July 4, after the contents of the report started circulating in international media.

“They come here just to confirm a narrative they already had,” the Rwandan leader said about the UN panel of experts.

Kagame likened the experts to an arsonist who torches a house but also acts as both judge and prosecutor. “The very ones who burned the [house] are the ones in the seat to judge and prosecute.”

The report by UN experts, however, only reasserted its criticism of Kigali.

The Rwandan army’s “de facto direction and effective control” over M23’s operations “render Rwanda liable for the actions” of the group, the report said, arguing that Rwanda’s conduct meets the threshold for international sanctions.

Last month’s US-brokered deal between the DRC and Rwanda does not include M23, but it stipulates that all parties should comply with the Qatar peace process. It also highlights that the Congolese government should facilitate the disengagement of the armed group, the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), which was established by Hutus linked to the killings of Tutsis in the 1994 Rwanda genocide. Rwanda should then lift its “defensive measures” inside the DRC, the agreement said.

While Kigali has often argued that its actions in the DRC are aimed at addressing longstanding security threats posed by the FDLR, the UN experts assert that its actions went far beyond legitimate security concerns.

The experts noted that “the final objective of Kigali was to control the territory of the DRC and its natural resources.”

Their report details how minerals, including coltan, were looted from mines in towns seized by M23, then smuggled into Rwanda. “Once in Rwanda, the looted minerals were mixed with local production, effectively laundering them into the downstream supply chain under the guise of Rwandan origin,” the report said.

Part of the minerals smuggled to Rwanda were purchased by Boss Mining Solutions Inc, represented by Eddy Habimana, who has previously been implicated in the illegal trafficking of minerals from the DRC, the report added.

Beyond Rwanda, the report also outlines violations of international law by another neighbour, Uganda.

Amid the Rwanda/M23–DRC fighting, there was a “rapid military build-up” by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in North Kivu and Ituri provinces, the report said.

Troops significantly increased this year “effectively doubling Uganda’s footprint in the country”, it added.

The Ugandan army, which has conducted joint operations with the Congolese military against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel movement with origins in Uganda, since 2023, “unilaterally” increased its troop presence in eastern DRC, the report added.

“The DRC government confirmed that the new UPDF deployment was executed without its prior approval, and that UPDF was undertaking unilateral initiatives outside the framework of joint operations with the [Congolese army],” the report read.

The deployment, according to the panel of experts, raised questions about Kampala’s motives, particularly given past allegations of UPDF support to M23. While Uganda claimed the troop movements were defensive and aimed at securing its economic interests, the report says their positioning created a de facto buffer zone that shielded M23 from northern counterattacks.

In response, Uganda’s ambassador to the UN, Adonia Ayebare, wrote on X that the report “contains falsehoods” and attempts to undermine the joint military operation with the DRC. He said Uganda will make an official statement after publication of the report.

​​General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s army commander also posted on X, saying: “While the UN so called ‘Group of Experts’ writes biased reports against us, we (UPDF) continue to save the lives of human beings in our region.”

The report by the UN experts had called out “repeated incendiary public statements” by Kainerugaba in which they said he emphasised close cooperation between the UPDF and the Rwandan army.

The report also accused Thomas Lubanga, a former ICC convict living in Kampala, of forming a politico-military movement to oppose the Congolese government, “with at least moral and passive endorsement from the Ugandan authorities”.

However, addressing journalists in Kampala on July 16, Lubanga said he is in forced exile because of persecution by Kinshasa, and if his movement had been receiving support from Uganda, it “would find itself on Kinshasa’s doorstep today”.

Ugandan, Rwandan interests in DRC

Kristof Titeca, a professor at the University of Antwerp who recently published a report on Uganda’s operations in DRC, urges readers to view the UN report and the backlash it has provoked in the context of regional dynamics.

Kigali and Kampala share overlapping interests in the DRC – chiefly concerning security, political influence, and economic access – but these interests also place them in a complex relationship of both cooperation and competition, he said.

Titeca argues that the resurgence and rapid expansion of M23 was, in part, triggered by Kigali’s fear that Kampala might encroach on its influence in eastern DRC after Uganda allowed its soldiers to enter DRC in pursuit of the ADF.

As M23 gained ground towards the end of 2024, Uganda reacted with troop deployments, particularly aimed at preventing the rebels – and by extension, Rwanda – from entering areas it sees as its sphere of interest.

Titeca says the military manoeuvres were as much a strategic message to Rwanda as they were about protecting Ugandan interests.

Drawing from movements and postures observed since late 2024, Titeca suggests that Kigali and Kampala may have an implicit understanding of their respective zones of influence.

“Some people think there might be some agreement between Kampala and Kigali on their area of interest,” he said.

In eastern DRC, “they are friends and also enemies at the same time,” he added, referring to Uganda and Rwanda.

Kinshasa’s violations

For the UN experts, Kinshasa bears some responsibility, too. On the Congolese side, the report paints a picture of a state under siege, struggling to maintain sovereignty over its eastern territories.

The government continued to rely heavily on irregular Wazalendo groups, and on the FDLR, despite the latter being under UN sanctions, as proxies in its fight against M23 and the Rwandan army.

While strategic, the report says, this alliance has worsened the security and human rights situation, contributing to reprisal attacks, child recruitment and sexual violence.

As it called out M23’s actions during the taking of Goma and Bukavu, the report also documented a pattern of grave international humanitarian law and rights violations – including looting, sexual violence, and killings – by retreating Congolese soldiers and Wazalendo fighters at the same time.

“These abuses occurred in a climate of impunity, in the general context of a weakening chain of command,” it said.

Al Jazeera sought a response to these claims from the Congolese government, but received no reply.

In dismissing the report, the Rwandan president accused the panel of perpetuating a biased narrative against Kigali and of ignoring Congolese government complicity with the FDLR, which he says continues to spread anti-Tutsi views that led to the 1994 genocide.

“All the reports, 75 percent of them, blame AFC/M23 and Rwanda,” Kagame said at the July 4 news conference. “You will find they never write anything comprehensive about FDLR or how Congolese institutions spread hate and genocide ideology. How can experts not see that?”

Speaking to Al Jazeera, Rwandan analyst Thierry Gatete echoed Kagame’s criticisms, questioning the credibility of the UN panel and alleging that they rarely conduct field research.

“They sit in New York or Paris and rely on testimonies from Congolese officials or FDLR sympathisers,” he said.

The report notes that Rwanda denied the group of experts access to Kigali. However, Gatete says Rwanda initially cooperated with the panel but later gave up because the reports were consistently biased and, in his view, inconsequential. “Nobody takes what they write seriously,” he said.

While Rwanda and Uganda view the UN reports as biased, others see them as essential tools for accountability.

Stewart Muhindo, a researcher with Congolese civil society group LUCHA, said the panel provides critical evidence that challenges both state and non-state actors.

“The panel tells hard truths,” he noted, pointing out that the report also criticises the DRC government for its continued collaboration with the FDLR, despite promises to end the alliance. “It’s not just about blaming Rwanda.”

Muhindo also agrees with UN experts that the DRC’s reliance on Wazalendo fighters has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. These irregular forces, though not sanctioned like the FDLR, have been implicated in atrocities, including attacks on civilians and the recruitment of child soldiers, he said.

“Despite ongoing peacemaking initiatives, efforts to stabilise the region continue to face significant challenges,” the UN experts said in the report. “Civilians bore the brunt of the conflict, enduring widespread displacement, insecurity, and grave violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.”