IT is one of the most nostalgic TV reboots of the year – but I can reveal the return of Blind Date will come with a very modern Love Island-style twist.
The Blind Date revival will be set on a tropical island — just like Love Island, hosted by Maya Jama
But it will have a different flavour because much of the show will be spent on a tropical island — just like Love Island, hosted by Maya Jama— where contestants will compete for a dream wedding on the golden sands.
A TV insider said: “This sounds like a radical departure from the old Blind Date, one that definitely has hints of Love Island about it.
“But fans will recall a lot of the dates took place in hot, sunny climes abroad, and producers want to recapture some of the steamy fun, and expand upon that.
“Even the wedding element has hints of the old show, because the dream was always that the dates on the programme would lead to couples tying the knot.”
Cilla was at the helm for 18 years on the show which saw a contestant firing questions at three hopefuls concealed from their view by a wall — which slid back to reveal their chosen date.
The TV insider added: “In the reboot, the creators are not entirely dispensing with all of the old characteristics either as there are still plans to incorporate the show’s famous sliding wall and hire a top female host just like Cilla.”
Disney+ is imminently expected to confirm it is reviving Blind Date, though all details have been kept firmly under wraps.
No presenter has signed up as yet but the channel is targeting some big names in British TV, with the main criteria being that they have to be hugely famous women.
Here’s hoping whoever gets the role doesn’t mind getting a bit of sand between their toes in the course of the job.
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Cilla Black hosted Blind Date for 18 yearsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Blind Date most successful couple Alex and Sue Tatham talk about their time on the show
KATH TAKES FLIGHT
KATHERINE KELLY is back dishing out the drinks . . . 13 years after pulling pints in the Rovers Return.
On Corrie she played feisty barmaid Becky McDonald, while now she’s cabin crew on new Channel 4 thriller In Flight.
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Katherine Kelly stars in new Channel 4 thriller In FlightCredit: Channel 4 / Peter Marley
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Katherin played feisty barmaid Becky McDonald on Coronation StreetCredit: ITV
Katherine will also be serving up some nerve-racking moments as single mum Jo Conran whose life is turned upside down by crooks.
Through the airline she works for, she finds herself blackmailed into drug smuggling after her son is imprisoned in Bulgaria for a murder he claims he didn’t commit.
The six-parter, set in Bangkok, Bulgaria, Istanbul and London, wrapped filming this spirng and is set to air later this year.
STEPHEN IN TECH LESSON
STEPHEN FRY wants to make a futuristic TV drama series where e-mails, TikTok and SnapChat are “uncool” and people return to basic communication in “an unplugged life”.
The Celebrity Traitors star told podcast Extraordinary Life Stories: “I was planning to write a TV series in which this kid comes to a school and completely changes it.”
The pupil asks the teacher how to submit his essay as he doesn’t have a computer so can’t email it.
Stephen continues: “All the other (pupils) think ‘Who is this ridiculous child?’
“But then he starts influencing everybody. They think this is quite a fun way to live.
“We’ve come to a tipping point now where the uncoolest thing in the world is Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok.
“We know they’re harmful, but they are also vapid and shallow and silly.
“Imagine an unplugged life using all these fabulous old tools. You’d be the coolest people.”
Bizbit
THE BBC has un- veiled two new podcasts. Double Olympic gold medallist Nicola Adams will host the LGBT Sport Podcast, which begins today.
And 13 Minutes Presents: The Space Shuttle tells the stories of the people who helped change space exploration. It launches on July 14.
SEX JOKE BIT MUCH FOR WILL
BRIT actor Will Sharpe came over all prudish about a sex scene in upcoming Netflix rom-com series Too Much . . . well, compared with the Americans on set.
He cringed as US actress Megan Stalter, who plays the lead role in the show about an American woman coping with a new life in London, joked with the show’s US creator Lena Dunham after the X-rated action.
At this week’s launch of the show, which drops on July 10, Lena said: “One of Meg’s favourite things to do is to ask you after a take: ‘What face were you making during that?’
“One time it was right after a sex scene and Meg was like: ‘What face were you making during that?’
“And I heard Will’s mic, like: ‘Jesus f***ing Christ, Meg!’”
Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme –Sun Club.
Cardi B, entering the newest phase of her rap career, has just one question in mind: “Am I the Drama?”
That’s the title for the Grammy winner’s long-anticipated sophomore album, which she unveiled Monday on social media. The “Bodak Yellow” artist, 32, announced “Am I the Drama?” will drop Sept. 19, seven years after she made her splashy debut with 2018’s “Invasion of Privacy.”
The aptly dramatic “Am I the Drama?” cover art features Cardi B in an abstract red body suit and matching fishnet tights grabbing the heel of one of her sky-high platform pumps. The image also features a raven resting on her shoe and even more of them swarming around her.
Cardi B hinted at her album and its raven motif Sunday in a theatrical teaser as she reflected on “seven years of love, life and loss” and trading in grace for hell.
“I learned power’s not given. It’s taken,” the Bronx native says. “I’m shedding feathers and no more tears. I’m not back. I’m beyond.”
Cardi B broke out with “Bodak Yellow” almost a year before she released “Invasion of Privacy” in April 2018. Times critic Mikael Wood in his review commended the rapper for her relatability — “through her words and delivery … the songs make you feel like she’s speaking directly to you.”
At the 2019 Grammy Awards, Cardi B won a top honor and made history while doing so: She became the first woman to win the rap album category as a solo artist.
Cardi B continued to gain popularity over the following years for hits including “I Like It” with J Balvin and Bad Bunny, and “WAP” with Megan Thee Stallion. The latter, and Cardi B’s recent singles “Up” and “Outside,” will be among the 23 songs on the new album, according to the tracklist preview on Spotify.
“Am I the Drama?” will arrive as Cardi B also marks new milestones in her personal life.
Earlier this year, the “Hustlers” actor made her romance with NFL star Stefon Diggs official after parting ways with Migos rapper Offset. She also became a mother for a third time in September when she welcomed her daughter Blossom Belles, with Offset. They also share 6-year-old daughter Kulture and 3-year-old son Wave.
Grammy-winning R&B star Chris Brown has pleaded not guilty to one charge connected to his alleged beating of a music producer in a London nightclub in 2023.
The “Kiss Kiss” singer, 36, appeared Friday in London’s Southwark Crown Court for his arraignment where he pleaded not guilty to one count of attempting to unlawfully and maliciously cause grievous bodily harm with intent. “Not guilty ma’am,” he responded when asked how he pleaded to the count.
Prosecutors accuse Brown of attacking music producer Amadou “Abe” Diaw with a bottle of tequila at Tape London, a nightclub, in February 2023. The accusations against Brown echo allegations from a civil lawsuit Diaw filed in Los Angeles against the musician in October 2023. He sued Brown for assault and battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress, claiming in court documents that the singer “brutally assaulted” him by “beating him over the head” and that he “continued to ruthlessly stomp” on him as he lay unconscious on the nightclub floor after the bottle attack.
London police arrested Brown in May on suspicion of the single bodily harm charge, but in a subsequent indictment, prosecutors added charges for assault causing actual bodily harm and having an offensive weapon, a bottle. Brown did not enter pleas on those additional counts but is due back in court in July.
The “Under the Influence” artist was released from police custody in mid-May after posting $6.7 million bail. His arrest initially posed a threat to his Breezy Bowl tour, which kicked off June 8 in Amsterdam. In an Instagram story shared after his release, Brown informed fans he would be going from “cage to stage.”
The singer’s trial is set for Oct. 26, 2026. A representative for Brown did not immediately respond to The Times’ request for comment.
Musician and Brown friend Omololu Akinlolu ((who performs as HoodyBaby), 39, was charged with causing grievous bodily harm for his alleged involvement in the 2023 incident and pleaded not guilty during Friday’s hearing.
The Vatican announced Friday that Pope Leo XIV will canonize Italian teen Carlo Acutis, who died from cancer almost 20 years ago, in a ceremony on the first Sunday of September. Acutis will be become the first millennial saint. File Photo by Stefano Spaziani/UPI | License Photo
June 13 (UPI) — An Italian teenager dubbed “God’s Influencer” is to become the first saint from the millennial generation Sept. 7, after Pope Leo XIV announced the date of his canonization in the Vatican on Friday.
British-born Carlo Acutis, a keen computer gamer who died of leukemia in 2006 at age 15, will be declared a saint by Leo in a St. Peter’s Square ceremony, after the Holy See verified two miracles attributed to him and in recognition of his use of Internet technology to spread the Catholic faith.
Approved back in July under the previous pontificate of the late Pope Francis, Acutis will be canonized along with another candidate recognized by Francis, Pier Giorgio Frassati, who died in 1924 at age 24.
“This morning, Pope Leo XIV presided over the Ordinary Public Consistory for the Canonization of the Blesseds, announcing that these Italian young men will be inscribed in the Register of Saints on the first Sunday of the month [of September],” the Vatican said in a social media post.
Acutis, a typical jeans and sneakers-wearing teen who has emerged as a poster boy for the church and helped to attract a new generation of younger adherents, was beatified in 2020 after a Brazilian boy unable to eat normally due to a birth defect was allegedly cured after his mother prayed to Acutis.
The second miracle in May 2024 involved a Costa Rican student with a severe, life-threatening head trauma from a cycling accident in Florence, which resolved after her mother prayed to Acutis at his tomb in Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis.
The Pontiff’s Office for Liturgical Celebrations also named seven other candidates, who are to be be canonized on the third Sunday of October.
BONNIE Blue has been slammed for “promoting rape culture” and labelled “vile” after revealing her sickest ever sex stunt.
The adult ‘star’ has already hit headlines with previous desperate stunts including apparently breaking the world record by sleeping with 1,057 men in just 12 hours.
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Bonnie Blue has been accused of “promoting rape culture” with her next, sickest ever, stuntCredit: Instagram
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She’s planning to be naked, tied up in a glass box for the “petting zoo”, where people are allowed to do anything they want to herCredit: Instagram/@bonnie_blue_xox
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She told podcaster Kat Baker that the box will be in a house in London, despite the fact she’d like it on the back of a lorry if it wasn’t “illegal”Credit: instagram/thekatbakershow
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Kat appeared to be lost for words when Bonnie explained the depraved planCredit: instagram/thekatbakershow
She then challenged Spring Break ‘barely legal’ college boys to see who could give her the best orgasm – with a pledge to pay for the tuition of the ‘winner’.
But now Bonnie has announced her most depraved stunt to date, immediately sparking disgust from people online.
She revealed her next challenge during an interview on Kat Baker’s podcast – leaving the interviewer lost for words as she did so.
“What challenges do you have next?” Kat asked Bonnie during their conversation on The Kat Baker Show.
Read more about Bonnie Blue
With Bonnie replying that she’s called it “Bonnie Blue’s petting zoo”, and said it will be taking place on June 15.
Explaining the sickening idea, she said that she’s going to be naked and tied up in a glass box, which would be “open for the public” to do basically whatever they want to her.
When Kat asked “where” the box was going to be, Bonnie continued that she’ll be in “the centre of London” but “in a house”.
“Oh ok, because I was thinking like David Blaine,” Kat said, referring to the U.S. illusionist’s stunt in 2003, when he was confined in a transparent glass box, suspended 30ft over the River Thames, for 44 days.
While Bonnie said that she’d love to be in the box on the back of a lorry, with the abhorrent sex acts performed on her as she travelled through London, she mused that it was “probably illegal”.
Making the planned event even more repulsive, Bonnie told Kat that she wanted to beat her own record by “doing 2,000”.
Bonnie Blue ‘KICKED OUT of City Ground after flouting ban as adult star gets into Chelsea away end vs Nottingham Forest’
Unsurprisingly, the comments on the Instagram video of Kat and Bonnie’s conversation took aim at the abominable plan – and even questioned the 26-year-old’s mental state to have come up with such a vulgar concept.
While another insisted she was “promoting rape culture” – which Fabulous Digital writer and rape survivor Kate Kulniece agreed with, as she said Bonnie’s latest stunt ends up “pushing victims like myself deeper into the abyss of trauma”.
“Her twisted antics are damaging impressionable young teenage boys – half of whom have been exposed to pornography by the age of 13.
“These very same boys will grow up thinking this is normal, this is what women want – and what we’re here for.”
In the comments on the Instagram post, one person insisted Bonnie has “no soul”
Sometimes I wonder if Satan is actually Bonnie in disguise
Instagram commenter
“She has no soul,” one wrote, while someone else called Bonnie an “attention craving sicko”, and another said she’s the “most disgusting in the world … by far”.
“Her value as a woman is so low that she is offering her entire body for free,” someone else sighed.
“And we’re ok glorifying prostitution on media platforms for kids to see….? I genuinely think the future’s done,” someone else wrote.
“Sometimes I wonder if Satan is actually Bonnie in disguise,” another slammed.
Why Bonnie Blue MUST be banned from social media
By Kate Kulniece, Fabulous Digital writer and rape survivor
When it comes to sex, I like to consider myself open-minded – and non-judgemental.
But the vile, attention-seeking OnlyFans porn star Bonnie Blue makes me sick to my stomach.
When the 26-year-old first hit the headlines with her gruesome stunts in March 2024, I’ll admit – I didn’t pay much attention to her.
But as the challenges became more perverted and she eventually bedded over 1,000 men in just 12 hours, I became not just disappointed – but angry.
Her most recent – and most disgusting – stunt to date, of being tied up in a glass box for men to fulfil their sick desires, is wrong and worrying on so many levels.
The number of rapes being reported to police are at a record high, with a shocking 1 in 4 women, 1 in 6 children and 1 in 18 men falling victim to this horrific crime.
It’s an alarming rise and many believe, as I do, that the sexual assaults are fuelled by access to toxic online culture – with Bonnie seemingly leading the way with her vile sex marathon stunts.
As a young woman who is a survivor of two rapes – aged just 13 and 23 – and who has been sexually harassed on countless occasions, I feel sick and enraged.
In a society where sexual abuse, violence against women and misogyny have become a widespread pandemic, we should ban people like Bonnie from social media.
Her foul and obscene challenges, which are becoming worse every time, are a slap in the face to millions of rape survivors like myself.
Not only are her videos a constant reminder of the trauma and pain that was forced upon us, but she also teaches perverts that women are a piece of meat – and nothing else.
Despite repeatedly insisting she empowers women, Bonnie promotes a culture in which women are passed around by men like toys.
She also plays into the narrative that our husbands, fathers and sons can’t control their sexual urges – or shouldn’t have to.
As a vocal multi millionaire, Bonnie may think this is all harmless fun, paying her many assistants to keep her out of real harm’s way.
But in reality, the sex-insatiable Bonnie is promoting dangerous rape culture and pushing victims like myself deeper into the abyss of trauma.
Her twisted antics, and those of rival Lily Phillips and Aussie OF star Annie Knight, are damaging impressionable young teenage boys – half of whom have been exposed to pornography by the age of 13.
These very same boys will grow up thinking this is normal, this is what women want – and what we’re here for.
There are countless things I look forward to, but the day the sick content creator finally gets banned from platforms cannot come soon enough.
However, someone else questioned why Bonnie was even being allowed to speak.
“Why the f**k is she being given platforms like podcasts and broadcasts to act like she is some kind of trailblazer or icon?” they raged.
“She is sitting there saying her next challenge is to be tied up in public so people can touch her and another woman is sitting across from her acting like that is something worth clapping for.
“That alone is disgusting and degrading…
“This is dragging us backwards.
“And any woman who claps for this kind of behaviour has failed as a woman.”
“Never been so revolted in my life,” another agreed.
Even more shockingly, there were also some comments from monstrous people saying they were keen to get inside the box with Bonnie.
“I’ll be in the box,” one boasted.
“See you there,” another added.
As a third questioned: “Are girls welcome to join in too?”
Domestic abuse – how to get help
DOMESTIC abuse can affect anyone – including men – and does not always involve physical violence.
Here are some signs that you could be in an abusive relationship:
Emotional abuse – Including being belittled, blamed for the abuse – gaslighting – being isolated from family and friends, having no control over your finances, what you where and who you speak to
Threats and intimidation – Some partners might threaten to kill or hurt you, destroy your belongings, stalk or harass you
Physical abuse – This can range from slapping or hitting to being shoved over, choked or bitten.
Sexual abuse – Being touched in a way you do not want to be touched, hurt during sex, pressured into sex or forced to have sex when you do not consent.
If any of the above apply to you or a friend, you can call these numbers:
Remember, you are not alone.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience domestic abuse over the course of their lifetime.
Every 30 seconds the police receive a call for help relating to domestic abuse.
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Bonnie has previously caused massive controversy with sick stunts such as sleeping with 1,057 men in 12 hoursCredit: TikTok/@schoolies1
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But she’s hoping to beat that record by having sex with 2,000 people during the “petting zoo” stuntCredit: TikTok/@bonnie_blue_xoxo
FABIO WARDLEY is preparing for a huge homecoming bout THIS WEEKEND!
The lifelong Ipswich Town fan will take to the ring at Portman Road as he faces Justis Huni on Saturday night.
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Fabio Wardley will return to the ring for the first time since his brutal knockout win over Frazer ClarkeCredit: Getty
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Boxing – Justis Huni v Kevin Lerena – Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – March 8, 2024 Justis Huni in action against Kevin Lerena REUTERS/Andrew Couldridge
A win for Wardley would see him move into pole position for a shot at the WBA heavyweight title.
NOTTINGHAM FOREST star Morgan Gibbs-White’s girlfriend Britney De Villiers took social media by storm.
Gibbs-White, 25, is enjoying a short relaxing holiday after an impressive season with Forest that saw them qualifying for Europe for the first time in 30 years.
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Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White’s girlfriend Britney De Villiers took social media by storm
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Britney donned a glamorous dark dress
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Britney posed with Gibbs-White during their holiday
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Britney and Gibbs-White took photos together during their downtime
The playmaker was joined by his partner Britney who seems to be having the time of her life with her other half.
And the couple got ready for a cosy date with the blogger donning a stylish black dress.
The agent shared the snap on Instagram for her 271,000 followers.
Britney added the following caption: “Date night.”
She also posted a few other pics of her in the same glamorous dress with Gibbs-White by her side sharing a tender embrace.
Their fans were left touched as they stormed the comments’ section.
One follower posted: “BEAUTIFUL!! You’re the best.”
Another commented: “You always make my day.”
This fan said: Ahhh beautiful.”
And that one gushed: “Faves.”
Inside Angel Gomes and Morgan Gibbs-White’s bromance as England new boys reveal ‘special’ bond that led to U21s glory
The ex-Wolves star is expected to be in action on June 7 at Andorra in the Three Lions’ next World Cup qualifier and June 10 for the friendly against Senegal at Forest‘s City Ground.
Scroll down for more from Britney
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Gibbs-White and Britney often go on holiday together
The start date for Love Island’s 2025 summer series has been confirmed by ITV and while fans don’t have long to wait, it’s starting at a later date than usual this year
18:22, 28 May 2025Updated 18:23, 28 May 2025
ITV has announced the start date for Love Island’s upcoming series – and fans will have to wait just a little bit longer than they’re used to for the hit reality show’s return. Hosted by Maya Jama, the series will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year as a new line-up of singles descends on the Majorcan villa in the hopes of finding romance.
While the show has typically aired on the first Monday in June for the past few years, Love Island is hitting our screens at a slightly later date this time around. The 2025 summer series is set to premiere on Monday June 9 – a week later than last year’s series.
Maya Jama will return to host Love Island in June(Image: ITV)
ITV announced the return date on social media, writing: “Mark your calendar, you’re invited to this year’s hottest meeting… Agenda: Initial coupling, strategic navigation of red flags, and identification of potential long-term partnerships.”
“To the hottie this may concern,” Maya announced in the clip. “As per the last 11 Series we’re staying loyal to the entertainment and levelling up the twists. The stakeholders are aligned, the Islanders will be laying it on Factor 50, and we’re on track to hit our KPI on drama.”
She added: “It’s time to crack on and deliver serious results. Let’s circle back soon. Warmest wishes x.” Set in an office that’s decorated with neon signs and inflatable flamingos, Maya tells her team at Love Island HQ: “Right, this year, Love Island needs something bigger. Something bolder. I want ideas.
“This year I want more drama, more bombshells, more break-ups, more make-ups. I want more twists. I want more twists than ever.”
Earlier this year saw the return of Love Island: All Stars – and just months on from the 2025 series’ big final, couple Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu and Curtis Pritchard announced that they had split. Ekin-Su shared the news in an Instagram post, writing that they had decided to “go [their] separate ways” and that it had been a “tough decision”.
“He’s an incredible person and I’ll always cherish the memories we made both in and out of the villa. Thank you all so much for the love and support over the past few months,” she added.
“We’re both focusing on navigating this transition and would really appreciate privacy during this time. Love always, Ekin-Su xX.”
SHOCKINGLY seven in ten singletons say they’ve given up on dating. Why? Because half of them say they’re put off by constantly meeting liars.
But are the signs there from the very first date? The Sun takes a look at the red flags that could mean your new love interest is out to break your heart.
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According to an expert, there are numerous signs your date could be lying to youCredit: Getty
As many as 74 per cent singletons have either given up or have chosen to take ‘a lengthy break’ from finding love, according to a poll by dating site Seeking.
And an incredible 51 per cent said they have been fibbed to about their date’s age, while a third have turned up to find the person was shorter or taller than they were told.
Relationship therapist Rhian Kivits told The Sun: “Sadly, lots of people do lie, especially on dating profiles or when they are messaging before a date. Often they do this through insecurity.
“They want to get a date, but they have no confidence, so they post fake photos or tell lies about their age or height.
“This doesn’t necessarily mean they are abusive or dangerous, but if you spot this, it’s fair to ask, ‘Is this right for me?’
“Most of us probably don’t want to date someone who is presenting themselves as someone they are not.”
But that’s not the only white lie your date could dupe you with – there are seven red flags, according to Rhian, which might indicate a potential partner is telling porkies.
1. ‘Too good to be true’ dating profiles
If someone’s profile looks highly managed with model-like photos, and it all feels just a bit too good to be true, then it probably is.
People have been known to use AI photos or internet pictures that aren’t even them. Trust your intuition and if something in your gut gives you the impression it isn’t right, then it might be fake.
Look for photos of them doing a genuine hobby, such as playing golf.
Skinny dipping, body counts & menace girl summer: it’s de-cuffing season | Date. Delete. Repeat.
But they should be on a course really playing, not just posing up nearby.
I like it when other people are in their photos, at a family barbecue, for example. This shows someone is a genuine person.
2. Question dodging
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Vague answers can be a sign your date isn’t being truthfulCredit: Getty
Sometimes you might get chatting to someone and find they are dodging your questions.
You ask where they work, and they just say ‘all over the place’ or ‘I travel a lot’. That’s a red flag.
You might ask where and they say ‘the south west’, but that’s a big place.
Whilst I’d never expect someone to be specific, it’s reasonable to have some idea of what someone does and which town they live in before you meet up.
The same goes for relationship status. If they are being cagey or say ‘it’s complicated’, that’s not a promising sign.
3. Refuses a video call
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If they refuse to do a video call before a date it can be a red flagCredit: Getty
You can rule out a lot of fibs by meeting on a video call before a real date.
If they weren’t the age they told you, or the height, you’d know instantly.
If they say no to the call, what is it they don’t want you to see? Maybe they are sitting on the couch with their partner.
Liars can be very clever, so whilst you can never 100 per cent protect yourself, a video call beforehand is a great way of weeding out fibbers.
4. You share the same loves and hobbies
What some liars will do is ask an awful lot of questions about you.
Then they’ll say, ‘Oh, I love that too. ‘ It might be what you like to eat, where you like to hang out, whether you like swimming or going to the cinema.
What they are doing is painting themselves as your ideal partner and setting up a web of lies so you almost fall in love before you meet them.
This is a very negative trait, often used by narcissists, and they are very likely disingenuous.
If whatever you love, they love, it’s not always a good sign.
5. Overly rehearsed anecdotes
If they are telling stories or anecdotes that feel a little too polished rather than spontaneously shared, maybe they are not telling the whole truth.
When every detail is just so, you should be wondering what they have left out.
Look out for inconsistencies in their tales.
Perhaps in one version of the story, they were with a friend, then their brother.
Maybe it was last week the first time they told you, then last year.
And if they always paint themselves as the hero of the story, the one always in the right, perhaps they are not being 100 per cent honest.
6. Little or no digital footprint
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If someone has no presence online, it could be a cause for concernCredit: Getty
Most of us have a very big digital footprint these days. If there is nothing about them online, ask about it.
If they deleted a profile, why? If they have profiles under different names, why?
We can all look someone up before going on a date, and it’s healthy to do so. You might see they used to have a different job and switched careers, or their hair colour is different.
Just say ‘I did a sneaky Google of you’. If they are a genuine person, they won’t mind.
They’ll laugh and say, ‘Yes, I used to have red hair’. If they are cagey, something is up.
7. Suspicious smartphone activity
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A phone always being place down on a table could mean they are hiding somethingCredit: Getty
Perhaps they are unusually protective of their phone when you meet up.
They might turn it face down or step away to reply.
They might not want you to see notifications pop up if it’s from a partner or someone else they are dating.
If you are on a date, they shouldn’t be on their phone too much anyway.
If they are, they might be texting their partner to say they are going to be late home from work.
Of course, this is not always the case but if they are on their phone a lot – ask why – and see how they react.
Why do people catfish others on dating apps?
Speaking to Techopedia, professional dating coach Jacob Lucas reveals how to see if someone is a catfish on dating apps.
A lot of people are insecure about themselves. They may not be very confident about dating or making friends, or about the way they look, so they create this fake persona. When they get attention and receive compliments, they then feel validated.
Very often, catfishes are in that person’s life already, so they already know them. Sometimes, it can be started off as a joke and then it spirals out of control. People can become addicted to it and it becomes a habit.
The third reason is that as weird as it sounds, they think they’re doing the right thing. If it’s a friend who has a lot of bad luck in their love life, they want to give them confidence. But they often get stuck in the habit and can’t stop doing it.
And finally, its could be that the person is trying to extort money from the other person. They may ask for a small amount of money to pay for their electricity bill for example to start off with, but if they do, it can spiral into a large amount of money. They use romance to get people to send them money.
The Getty Villa Museum will reopen to the public on a limited basis beginning June 27 after a nearly six-month closure forced by the devastating Palisades fire.
On the night of Jan. 7, reports swirled that the wind-driven conflagration had reached the outskirts of the Villa. A Getty team stayed through the night, putting out spot fires with fire extinguishers and ensuring that the galleries were safely sealed off, while updating a command team at Getty Center that included Getty President and Chief Executive Katherine Fleming.
A few days later, Fleming told The Times that the teams were confident that their thorough preparation — including extensive brush clearing — would keep the museum from burning. The galleries and other buildings did remain safe, but the glittering fountain pools went dark with ash. Extensive work on the property, including intensive cleaning and testing of indoor and outdoor spaces for toxic residue, is nearing completion. The water system has been flushed, and air and water filters have been replaced. More than 1,300 fire-damaged trees were removed.
A burned hillside above the Getty Villa, where the Palisades fire burned around the educational center and art museum.
(Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)
“The site may look different to visitors,” the museum warned in an announcement this week, “with less vegetation and some burn damage to the outer grounds.”
The limited visitor hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Monday. The goal will be to help limit traffic on Pacific Coast Highway, which is the only way to reach the campus. (The Villa is not yet accessible via Sunset Boulevard.) Reservations are limited to 500 visitors daily, and free, timed-entry reservations can be booked online. Parking is $25.
Unfortunately, the exhibition on view when the fire erupted, “Ancient Thrace and the Classical World: Treasures From Bulgaria, Romania, and Greece,” had to close, but the Getty created a virtual tour. Times art critic Christopher Knighthad great things to say about it when he viewed the exhibition in person just before the fire.
The exhibition for the reopening is “The Kingdom of Pylos: Warrior-Princes of Ancient Greece,” which will be on view from June 27 through Jan. 12. It will feature more than 230 works of art and artifacts from Messenia, a region in Greece where the Mycenaean civilization flourished during the Late Bronze Age.
Theater fans can breathe a sigh of relief. The outdoor classical theater will return in the fall with “Oedipus the King, Mama!” co-produced by Troubadour Theater Company.
I’m arts and culture writer Jessica Gelt, looking forward to reading a book in the shade by a Villa fountain. Here’s your weekend arts roundup.
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The SoCal scene
Omar Ebrahim as Schoenberg and conductor Neal Stulberg in Tod Machover’s “Schoenberg in Hollywood” at UCLA Nimoy Theater.
(Taso Papadakis / UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music)
Does Los Angeles have its own musical style? Times classical music critic Mark Swedanswers the question after attending the Hear Now Music Festival and Tod Machover’s opera “Schoenberg in Hollywood.” “Los Angeles is the home of film music. The two most influential classical composers of the first half of the 20th century, Stravinsky and Schoenberg, lived here. … The composer with the most radical influence on the second half of the 20th century, John Cage, was born and grew up here. Ferreting out L.A.’s bearing on jazz and the many, many aspects of popular music, as well as world music, is a lifetime’s effort,” Swed writes.
“A Doll’s House, Part 2” at Pasadena Playhouse gets a mixed review from Times theater critic Charles McNulty, who praises Jason Butler Harner’s performance as Torvald, while noting that costumes and set design did not entirely come together. Lucas Hnath’s play picks up 15 years after the conclusion of Henrik Ibsen’s 1879 classic, when Nora famously walks out on her husband and children. Nora’s life is complicated. And so is McNulty’s reaction to the show.
Last week, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Artlaid off 15 full-time employees, accounting for 14% of its staff. Most were from the organization’s education and public programming team. Seven part-time, on-call employees were also let go, according to the museum. Sources described the morning of the layoffs as chaotic and shocking, with staff being summoned by human resources and being told they needed to be out of the building by 2 p.m. The museum said in a statement, “Education remains a central pillar of the Lucas Museum.”
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Lauren Halsey, from left, Jane Fonda and Zoë Ryan attend the 20th Annual Hammer Museum Gala in the Garden on May 17.
(Charley Gallay / Getty Images for The Hammer Museum)
The Hammer Museum raised $2.4 million during its 20th annual Gala in the Garden last Saturday. The fete honored Jane Fonda and artist Lauren Halsey, and it featured a performance by the singer Griff. This marked the first gala for the museum’s new director, Zoë Ryan, who took over in January. Last year’s party marked a heartfelt send-off for longtime director Ann Philbin, who retired after 25 years at the helm of the institution. This year, per usual, plenty of celebrities were in attendance, including LeBron and Savannah James, Usher, Will Ferrell, Dustin Hoffman, Ted Danson, Mary Steenburgen and Molly Shannon, as well as plenty of artists including Doug Aitken, Andrea Bowers, Diedrick Brackens, Catherine Opie, Ed Ruscha and Jonas Wood. Thelma Golden, the director of the Studio Museumin Harlem, paid tribute to Halsey; Danson and Steenburgen celebrated Fonda.
The Fowler Museum on Tuesday returned 11 objects to the Larrakia community of the Northern Territory in Australia. The items, which hold deep cultural and spiritual significance to the Larrakia people, consist of 10 glass spearheads and a kangaroo tooth headband worn by a Larrakia elder. Elders have worked closely with the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies and the museum over the last four years to identify and arrange the return of the objects. This particular return ceremony is the second time the Fowler has returned artifacts in partnership with AIATSIS. Last July, the museum repatriated 20 items to the Warumungu community of Tennant Creek in northern Australia.
More culture news
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has announced its 2025-26 theater season — the first with President Donald Trumpas chair. “Hamilton,” as previously reported, is out. Offerings include plenty of Trump-approved Broadway fare, including “Moulin Rouge,” “Chicago,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Back to the Future:The Musical” and “Monty Python’s Spamalot.”
Tony Award winner Charles Strouse, who composed the music for “Annie,” “Bye Bye Birdie” and “Applause,” has died. He was 96.
With Love Island series 12 just around the corner, here is everything we know so far on the latest series, including ‘confirmed’ islanders, return date and the gorgeous host
Jessica Clarke Digital Reporter
20:11, 25 May 2025Updated 20:11, 25 May 2025
It’s confirmed, Love Island will be blessing our TV screens once again for a summer of drama, scandals, and most importantly, love!
The official Love Island Instagram page recently dropped a teaser for the latest season, claiming that it is ‘coming soon’. The teaser displayed a pink printer which printed, “Attention: Love Island is coming soon. Attendance mandatory. Signed, CEO of love, Maya x.”
Love Island is coming back ‘soon’
Fans were sent into a frenzy, with many sharing their hopes and dreams for the new series. One fan commented, “Please bring back the ‘step forward if you fancy’ at the beginning!!”, while another added, “The population has been waiting for this”.
As the first islander has been ‘revealed’, fans are keen to know as much information as possible. So, let’s dive into what we know so far…
Who are this year’s islanders?
Does a personal trainer who is 6 feet and 5 inches tall sound good? Well, that’s how tall Londoner Aaron Buckett is, and he is the first islander who is ‘confirmed’ to join the 2025 series of the popular dating show. Aaron isn’t short on muscles or followers as he boasts hundreds of thousands of fans on Instagram and TikTok.
A source claimed to The Sun: “It’s a fact of life that girls go crazy for a tall lad and Aaron is a man mountain. He’s got great chat too.” They continued, “Aaron is in the mix for this year’s cast but execs are still finalising whether he’ll be in the opening line-up or as a tempting bombshell.” Other islanders are yet to be ‘confirmed’.
Londoner Aaron Buckett is the first islander who is ‘confirmed’ to join the 2025 series(Image: Instagram)
When will Love Island return?
Unfortunately, all we know is that Love Island series 12 will be starting ‘soon’, so we all have to sit and wait impatiently. Last year’s series began on Monday 3 June, so we imagine the date won’t differ too much this year.
This year’s Love Island is expected to return to its usual stomping ground in Mallorca, Spain, where islanders will be surrounded by the iconic fire pit, rectangular pool and large kitchen. It is also expected that the terrace and the hideaway will be making a welcome return, as that is where most of the drama goes down.
It has been confirmed that Maya Jama will be returning to her hosting position(Image: Dave Benett/Jed Cullen/Dave Benett/Getty Images for Gordon’s Premium Pink )
Who is hosting the series?
It has been confirmed that Maya Jama will be returning, delighting fans. Ever since stepping into the role in 2023, fans have found her to be a perfect fit to host the show.
What channel is Love Island on?
Love Island will be returning to ITV and ITVX.
Who won last year’s Love Island?
Mimii Ngulube and Josh Oyinsan were crowned the winners of the 2024 summer series(Image: Getty Images for the NTA’s)
Mimii Ngulube and Josh Oyinsan stole the hearts of the nation and were subsequently crowned the winners of the 2024 summer series. The sweet couple made history as the first Black couple ever to win the UK’s franchise.
Sadly, the couple decided to go their separate ways after a few months and announced their split in an emotional statement.
Mimi said: “I know a lot of you gave been wondering about Josh and I and why we haven’t been making appearances. The truth is we have been trying to figure it out since leaving the villa, but unfortunately things aren’t going to work between us right now.”
TESCO has sent chocolate fans into a frenzy after slashing the price of cult favourite Easter treats to just 18p.
Thrifty shoppers and foodies can now get their hands on scrumptious chocolate for spare change, saving themselves a fortune.
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Tesco has slashed the price of these chocolates to as little as 18pCredit: facebook/Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group
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Some shoppers have also spotted other cut-price treats, including Haribo Eggs Galore and Reese’sCredit: facebook/Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group
The mega supermarket – which currently runs its epic 25%-off fashion sale – is offering customers Maltesers treats for as little as 18p.
Some of the bargain buys you can snap up on the cheap include Maltesers Mini Bunnies down from £1.85 to just 46p.
Another treat to look out for next time you’re popping in to get all the essentials is Maltesers Popcorn Easter Bunny.
This sugary treat, which is perfect for lunch boxes or a picnic, is on offer for a mere 18p, down from 75p.
While some may worry that these chocolates will expire soon, bargain-mad Tesco shoppers have reassured that the Best Before date it still months away.
One customer, Toni-May Clare, took to Facebook to share the sweet deal, writing: ”Maltesers bunnies in Tesco, all dated to Nov and Dec 2025.”
That works out at just 14p per bar — but some shoppers aren’t convinced they’re worth the price.
How to save money on chocolate
We all love a bit of chocolate from now and then, but you don’t have to break the bank buying your favourite bar.
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to cut costs…
Go own brand – if you’re not too fussed about flavour and just want to supplant your chocolate cravings, you’ll save by going for the supermarket’s own brand bars.
Shop around – if you’ve spotted your favourite variety at the supermarket, make sure you check if it’s cheaper elsewhere.
Websites like Trolley.co.uk let you compare prices on products across all the major chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.
Look out for yellow stickers – supermarket staff put yellow, and sometimes orange and red, stickers on to products to show they’ve been reduced.
They usually do this if the product is coming to the end of its best-before date or the packaging is slightly damaged.
Buy bigger bars – most of the time, but not always, chocolate is cheaper per 100g the larger the bar.
So if you’ve got the appetite, and you were going to buy a hefty amount of chocolate anyway, you might as well go bigger.
One user commented: “They’re nasty lol.”
“Nothing special about it, I wouldn’t waste your money,” another wrote.
This shopper added: “Looks like someone smashed peas into the chocolate.”
“Not sure why everyone is raving on about this chocolate,” a fourth said.
Shoppers should visit their nearest Home Bargains to buy the discounted treats.
FERRARI has revealed the launch date for its first ever electric vehicle – after having “prepared for years”.
The car giant’s CEO Benedetto Vigna made the bombshell announcement at a financial meeting, saying that the car would be unveiled in three steps.
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Ferrari announced when its new EV will reach customers, after they launched an e-building factory, pictured
He said that the manufacturer will show “the technological heart” of the new model at the company’s capital markets day on October 9.
The revolutionary model’s debut will take place in the spring of next year and sales will start in October 2026, Vigna announced on May 6.
The groundbreaking statement is the first time Ferrari has indicated when the EV could reach customers.
In February, Vigna claimed the car would be presented at the company’s capital market day in October.
Ferrari Chairman John Elkann said that his company had been “preparing for years” for electrification.
The company first started selling hybrid models in 2019 – but has now scheduled to unveil the new fully electric cars for this October.
Elkann said during the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting: “Electrification has been a path that we’ve been pursuing now for decades, starting in Formula One and then from our race cars to our sports cars.
“We are very excited about unveiling the Ferrari Elettrica.”
He praised the newly inaugurated Ferrari facility – which was introduced in June in its hometown of Maranello.
Known as the e-building, he said it would give the firm increased manufacturing flexibility to develop future models.
Ferrari releases NEW convertible with blistering 211mph top speed for £366,500
“Now, we can also claim that all our key electric components are developed and handcrafted in Maranello,” Elkann added.
Vigna reaffirmed that Ferrari would continue to produce petrol, hybrid as well as fully electric cars.
Hybrid cars made up 51% of all Ferrari sales in 2024.
Vigna said: “Indeed, in line with our strategy, we continue to invest in all three powertrains … to offer our clients maximum freedom of choice.”
Ferrari sells about one in four cars in the United States – its largest market.
The firm said in March that it plans to raise prices for some of its models by as much as 10 percent because of Donald Trump‘s tariffs.
But despite the economic changes – Ferrari on May 6 reported a 15 per cent rise in first-quarter core earnings and stuck to its financial guidance for the year.
TINDER. Hinge. Bumble. They’re all apps that people use to date.
But it seems “creepy” singletons are making their way over to second-hand site Vinted to secure dates.
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One Vinted user received this ‘creepy’ message after making an offer on the appCredit: Facebook/I Found it on Vinted
One user was trying to buy an ‘Apple Pencil 2nd Generation’ and sent the seller an offer for £37.50.
Then, the seller sent a bizarre message to her, reading: “I’d love to take you on a date if you’re single and over age.”
She took to Facebook to share the strange exchange, and people were quick to joke that “Vinted is the new dating site”.
However, others warned that such messages could have serious safety consequences.
One penned: “Thank God you didn’t buy it, that’s so creepy.”
Another said: “What the actual f**k, what creep is using Vinted to date?”
Others called the seller a “cheeky bugger” and warned women to “stay safe” using the app, as if she bought the pen, he might have access to her address.
The app’s community standards guide reads: “Private messages between members are for exchanging information regarding the items on the platform.
“Violent, hateful, racist, extremist, shocking, sexist, discriminating, pornographic or sexual messages are strictly prohibited.
“Including those containing descriptions of illegal and immoral acts, encouraging illegal acts or drug use, or containing links to pages with the type of content mentioned above.
“Private messages should always show respect to everyone involved.
“Anything indecent, hateful, or illegal will be removed by Vinted, as per our Terms and Conditions.
“If a private message violates our Community Standards, seems spammy, inappropriate, or even like a threat to the whole Vinted community, please help us spot it by reporting it to the Vinted team.”
The UK Foreign Office has advised travellers to be prepared for travel to this EU country – as well as others – ahead of the implementation of a new security system
While the new system is meant to increase the efficiency, UK travellers are warned longer queues are expected as the system rolls out(Image: Corbis via Getty Images)
Britons travelling to Portugal will soon be subject to a new security measure. Later this year, the European Commission will begin a phased rollout of a new Entry/Exit System (EES) which will replace traditional passport checks with biometric data registration.
The UK Foreign Office has issued a travel alert for UK tourists as Portugal joins twenty other European countries in introducing the new EES in October 2025. Since Brexit, UK travellers have been considered ‘third-party nationals’ in the EU so they will be required to submit fingerprints and a facial scan upon arrival at borders in Portugal and other Schengen Area countries.
The system was originally meant to be implemented across EU borders in November 2024. However, the launch was postponed after Germany and France both raised concerns about preparedness.
The EES is being implemented to enhance border security and increase the efficiency of entry procedures. Another goal of the new system is to better identify travellers who have exceeded their permitted stay and better prevent irregular immigration and terrorist offences.
Once your biometric data has been collected a digital file will be created(Image: Getty Images)
While the EES aims to improve safety and reduce illegal migration, travellers are likely to encounter longer queues as the system rolls out, especially at high-traffic crossings in Lisbon, Faro, and Porto. The Foreign Office has advised UK travellers to be prepared for these changes.
The European Commission advises that the process can be made quicker if you register some of your data in advance. You can do so at a dedicated self-service system (if available at your border crossing point).
You will not need to register your data every time you cross the border. After the initial biometric data recording, a digital file will be created with your information which passport control officers can use to verify (as opposed to collect) your fingerprints and photo. The EES will store these individual data files for 3 years and 1 day from the date of your last exit (or refusal of entry) into the EU.
The new policy is bad news for travellers who enjoy collecting stamps in their passports(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
EU travellers who already hold a short-stay visa won’t have to have their biometric data stored again on the EES, as their fingerprints are registered in the Visa Information System (VIS). Sadly, for passport stamp collectors, the new system means that passports will no longer be stamped by hand at border crossings.
Instead, each visitor’s arrival and departure will be logged digitally through a secure central database. This digital record will help border officials determine how long a person has stayed and whether they’ve exceeded the 90-day limit permitted for short-term visits.
The EES will record and store the following in each digital file:
data listed in your travel document(s) (e.g. full name, date of birth, etc.)
date and place of each entry and exit
facial image and fingerprints (called ‘biometric data’)
THE MET Office has revealed the exact date temperatures are expected to soar to 29C as a dome of “sinking air” descends across the UK.
Brits are likely to be able to enjoy potentially “record-breaking” heat for this time of year as a result of the prolonged sunshine and area of high pressure over the country.
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Temperatures are expected to soar to 29C this week, the Met Office has said, as sunseekers were spotted soaking up the warmth in BrightonCredit: Alamy
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It comes after countless Brits were spotted in parks soaking up the sunshine, such as here in Granary Square, LondonCredit: Alamy
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Southern England is expected to receive the highest temperatures later this weekCredit: Met Office
This comes as countless sunseekers were spotted flooding beaches, parks, and riversides yesterday as temperatures reached a balmy 26C across much of southern and central England.
The Met Office has now said today and Thursday could bring even warmer conditions, as temperatures soar towards the 30C mark.
In a post on X, the forecaster said: “A broad area of high pressure is currently positioned over the UK, leading to sinking air that warms as it descends.
“Combined with prolonged sunshine, this is expected to push temperatures up to 29C in southern areas by Thursday.”
Areas in and around London, as well as much of the rest of southern England, are likely to experience the best of the sunshine, with temperatures reaching their highest point on Thursday afternoon.
Those living across the Midlands are also set to be able to bask in the glorious sunshine in around 25C heat.
While not as warm, conditions are still expected to be largely above 20C in the afternoon across Wales.
However, Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to experience slightly cooler conditions, floating around the 12C to 15C mark.
This is in stark contrast to today, where much of the mainland UK should reach above 20C.
If temperatures manage to reach over 30C this week, it would be the earliest point in the year the UK has ever reached such hot conditions, since Met Office records began.
Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly said: “Thursday looks set to be the warmest day of the week, with temperatures climbing notably above the seasonal average.
“Overnight temperatures will also be very high in places.
“It’s possible national and station records for daytime and overnight temperatures may be broken.
“The far north will always see cooler conditions, with these more seasonal temperatures likely spreading erratically south later in the week.”
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Groups of people have already been spotted at Bournemouth beach today, enjoying the warm conditionsCredit: w8media
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People punting along the River Cam in Cambridge yesterdayCredit: PA
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Tourists and locals enjoying the toasty conditions in Lyme Regis on TuesdayCredit: Alamy
Conditions are far warmer at the moment than usual for this time of year.
Typically, late April sees the mercury reach average around 12C in Scotland, and 16C in southern England.
However, predictions of 29C mean the UK could be hotter than Crete (15C) in Greece and Barcelona (21C) in Spain on Thursday.
Following Thursday’s peak, temperatures are expected to begin to fall on Friday, with 25C likely being the maximum temperature.
The Met Office said there is a chance of some showers and potentially thunderstorms developing late on Thursday or overnight, particularly in the south and south west.
It added there could also be some “uncertainty” as we move towards the weekend as an area of low pressure moves up from the south.
Met Office five-day forecast
Today: Wednesday is set to be a very warm day for much of the UK, with lots of sunshine.
A few showers developing across Northern Ireland and Scotland later in the day, where there will be cloud at times.
Tonight: Late evening sunshine, then dry overnight with largely clear skies.
Small chance of mist patches around dawn.
Cloud and isolated showers across Scotland and Northern Ireland. Cool under clear skies.
Thursday: A very warm and sunny day in the south and southeast.
An increased risk of some heavy showers or thunderstorms in the afternoon.
Feeling cooler from the north.
Outlook for Friday to Sunday: Some isolated heavy showers or thunderstorms on Friday, otherwise dry and bright for most with sunny spells.
Temperatures returning to near or just above average for the time of year.
