EXCLUSIVE: Stand-up comic Maisie Adam is taking on the new series of Channel 4’s Taskmaster – but admits that it wasn’t always plain sailing in an exclusive chat with The Mirror
Taskmaster star Maisie Adam has revealed that she struggled with her outfit throughout filming the show(Image: Channel 4)
Given her chilled on-stage persona, you might think stand-up comic Maisie Adam never gets flustered. But she discovered a much angrier side to herself on Taskmaster.
The 8 Out O f 10 Cats star felt like a competition winner when she joined the cast of the hit Channel 4 series, alongside Unforgotten ’s Sanjeev Bhaskar, Inside No. 9 ’s Reece Shearsmith and comedians Ania Magliano and Phil Ellis. But she admits the show brought out some “deep-rooted anger” that she took out on hosts Greg Davies and Alex Horne.
“It’s really fun going into the tasks at the time, but I was so shocked at how stressed I got with each one,” she confesses. “I didn’t realise I was such a panicky person.
Ania Magliano, Maisie Adam and Phil Ellis taking on a Taskmaster challenge(Image: Channel 4)
“I was very quick to blame Alex and his silly little clipboard and quite quick to get personal with him. I would also protest to Greg if I thought he’d been unfair with the points-awarding.
“I know I can be competitive but competitiveness mixed with a total lack of ability is a dangerous mix to have exposed to you with a mirror held up.”
Maisie credits her husband Michael Dobinson, who works in the tech world, for keeping her grounded. The pair got married in 2023, shortly before she took part in that year’s Soccer Aid.
“He’s very supportive and likes to watch stuff that I’ve been on, but it’s really nice that he isn’t in comedy. If you’re both in it, it can sometimes be a bit of a bubble. You forget there’s a real world out there,” she admits.
“Comedy is quite a self-absorbed job. It’s always about you, whether you’re funny or not. It’s quite a validation-seeking profession. I would worry that if I was with somebody who was also in comedy, we’d end up asking each other for feedback.”
Maisie is more than happy not to talk about her work when she’s at home with Michael.
“I guess some people really enjoy being able to both relate to the same frustrations and highs and lows of their job, but some, like me, can’t imagine anything worse than discussing it when you’re in your own home,” she says.
“There’s comedian Maisie and there’s Maisie at home. I quite like getting home and turning off Maisie the comedian and just being a football-obsessed normal person.”
Maisie Adam, Sanjeev Bhaskar, Alex Horne, Greg Davies, Phil Ellis, Ania Magliano and Reece Shearsmith on Taskmaster(Image: Channel 4)
Maisie has been on TV panels with comedy greats and has interviewed football legends on her Big Kick Energy podcast, but Taskmaster gave her the chance to finally spend time with her childhood hero: host Greg Davies.
“My mum and dad took me to see Greg when I was 14 at our local theatre,” she says. “He had this bit about a student who got locked in a storage cupboard from when he was a teacher. It was the first time I’d seen live stand-up comedy where I’d been literally bent double and my ribs hurt from laughing. Tears were streaming down my face.
“If you’d told that person that 15 years later she’d be on Taskmaster with him, that would have blown her mind. I couldn’t bring myself to fangirl over him on set – I didn’t want him to feel awkward, so I played it cool.”
But it was hard to stay nonchalant when dealing with wardrobe malfunctions throughout the series.
“My plan was to be like Sandy from Grease – she does whatever it takes to come out on top. She changes herself and takes up smoking to win the top prize. In that case it’s a man, which doesn’t reflect well any more.
“The difficulty was, I didn’t blow the budget when it came to getting the outfit. It was cheap and synthetic, so I slipped on everything because of the cheap shoes – and the flammable leggings would catch on everything.”
As a result, Maisie’s trousers regularly fell down on the show. “It was mortifying and it got progressively more humiliating and, dare I say, depressing as the studio records went on,” she cringes.
“This was going to be a common theme – flashing my underwear thanks to a pair of synthetic leggings on the biggest comedy show I’ve been waiting years to be booked on. That’s probably my number one regret.”
Social media sensation Angry Ginge is reportedly set to be signed up for the next series of I’m A Celeb after impressing ITV bosses during Soccer Aid recently
Angry Ginge is being eyed up for this year’s stint on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here(Image: Jordan Peck|Getty Images)
ITV bosses of I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here are already starting to secure the celebrity line-up for this year’s series and have now eyed up one star they feel will fit in perfectly. Social media star Angry Ginge, who has more than three million followers across his platforms including Instagram and Tik Tok, is one of a few names being thrown into the hat.
Once Angry Ginge signs on the dotted line, he will be following in the footsteps of Nella Rose and GK Barry from previous years.
The social media star, whose real name is Morgan Burtwistle, is believed to have impressed ITV bosses during the annual charity football match Soccer Aid.
A source told The Sun: “ITV bosses always like to have a social media superstar on their cast, especially after GK Barry proved such a success last year. Angry Ginge has bags of personality and was really friendly to everyone at Soccer Aid this year. He made a great impression.”
Social media star Angry Ginge impressed ITV bosses during Soccer Aid(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Angry Ginge’s followers are regularly kept in the loop with his life and career highlights.
And one of them was when he worked eith football legend Wayne Rooney.
Other names in the mix are Emmerdale star Lisa Riley and former EastEnders actress Shona McGarty.
In December 2023, Nella Rose, who was one of the first social media stars to enter the Australian jungle, wasn’t greeted by anyone following her exit and decided to not be interviewed by Lorraine Kelly.
And at the time, many were left concerned.
Angry Ginge is being eyed up for this year’s stint on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here(Image: Getty Images)
Nella became quite a talking point during her time on the ITV show after she famously clashed with First Dates star Fred Sirieux.
And at the time of her exit, the Mirror exclusively revealed the real reason she opted out of speaking on Lorraine.
A source told the Mirror: “There seems to be some confusion but Nella has just been relaxing on her first day out of the jungle.
It is quite common for contestants to do that and she will be giving her views and thoughts about her time in the jungle on ITV on Wednesday.”
FOOTIE legend Wayne Rooney has been booted into third place in the Soccer Aid shirt auction – by a boyband heartthrob and a rising telly star.
The former England skipper’s signed shirt is currently sitting at £1,578, but that’s still miles behind the top two.
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England footie legend Rooney and Boxing star Tyson Fury took part this year
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Louis Tomlinson’s popularity is off the chartsCredit: Reuters
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Bella Ramsey was amongst celebrities out there at Old Trafford this year
One Direction star Louis Tomlinson is topping the leaderboard with a whopping £5,364 bid for his England top – despite barely touching the ball on the pitch.
Coming in second is Bella Ramsey, the breakout star of The Last of Us and Game of Thrones, whose shirt has pulled in an impressive £1,731.
But it’s not just Rooney who’s struggling to get to the top in the footie world – Brazil legend Rivaldo’s shirt is number five, with a bid of £809.
The former Barcelona man is surprisingly beaten into fourth by Twitch streamer Morgan Burtwistle, better known online as AngryGinge.
Even more surprising, though, is the fact there’s no place in the top 10 for former Manchester City star Carlos Tevez.
Fans have been scrambling to snap up the signed shirts from this year’s charity clash, which raised £15.28million for UNICEF.
But Rooney’s spot behind Louis and Bella has raised a few eyebrows – especially considering he’s England’s all-time top scorer.
It just shows how fast the world of fame moves – especially when you step out of the limelight.
In this Monday’s Mirror Daily Digest, we’ve pulled together the biggest stories of the day from Romeo Beckham’s ex speaking out on the famous family feud to one Brit dad’s life-saving flight change and fallout from yesterday’s Soccer Aid
Fans have accused Carlos Tevez of forgetting Soccer Aid is a charity match
Welcome to the Mirror’s Daily Digest, where we pull together all the best stories of the day from our News, Showbiz, Sport teams and more. This Monday, we’re featuring everything from another development in the Beckham family feud to one dad’s lucky escape from the doomed Air India flight and Soccer Aid drama hitting social media.
This afternoon, Romeo Beckham’s ex girlfriend Kim Turnbull has broken ranks to speak out about the Brooklyn feud that has tormented the family. Elsewhere, a dad has spoken out after a last minute flight change saved his life and Paddy McGuiness has hit out at Carlos Tevez after the Soccer Aid star scored four goals past the TV icon last night.
Romeo Beckham’s ex Kim Turnbull breaks silence on Brooklyn feud and ‘scapegoat’ lies
Romeo Beckham (pictured right with Kim Turnbull) is reported to not be getting on with brother Brooklyn (left)(Image: Getty/PA )
As the Beckham feud drags on, our showbiz team spotted that Romeo Beckham’s ex-girlfriend, Kim Turnbull, broke her silence on social media this afternoon after being dragged into the bitter family drama. Kim, 26, is said to be at the heart of the Beckham fallout in which eldest child Brooklyn and wife Nicola Peltz, 30, have become estranged.
The DJ is said to have dated Brooklyn before he met billionaire heiress Nicola. However, following weeks of headlines about her and Brooklyn, Kim fumed that she was ’embarrassed by the lies.’
This Monday, Kim took to social media to speak out for the first time on the drama. She said: “I’ve avoided speaking on this topic to prevent adding fuel to the fire, however it’s come to a point where I feel the need to address it so I can move on.”
Brit dad meant to be in Air India plane crash survivor’s Seat 11A breaks silence
A British dad was originally due to fly home on the doomed Air India flight (Image: AP)
This Monday, our News team covered one British dad’s lucky escape after a last minute flight change saved his life – he was due on the Air India flight 171 this week. The dad has shared his shock and expressed his gratitude after he changed his plans at the very last minute and has spoken of the very bizarre coincidence with his new booking.
Owen Jackson, 31, from Saffron Walden in Essex, had been in India on a work trip and was scheduled to fly back this week but had to decide between flying back on Thursday or Saturday. In the end his colleagues said to take the Saturday flight as the job would take a bit longer than originally planned.
He was then booked onto the same route on Saturday which would have been the same aircraft as the one which crashed, killing all but one of the 242 people onboard. In a bizarre coincidence, Owen was booked onto seat 11A for the Saturday flight – the seat number belonging to the only survivor of flight 171.
Paddy McGuinness hits out at Carlos Tevez ‘assault’ after Soccer Aid
Paddy McGuinness has broken his silence after being on the wrong end of a Carlos Tevez masterclass(Image: PA)
Soccer Aid graced TV screens yesterday evening, raising over £15 million for UNICEF. However, drama over the hotly anticipated match has spilled in to today after former Manchester City ace Carlos Tevez fired four goals past England keeper Paddy McGuinness and fans accused him of forgetting Soccer Aid is for charity.
Paddy McGuinness has now broken his silence after being on the wrong end of the Carlos Tevez masterclass. Taking to Instagram today, Paddy shared a hilarious snap of him and Tevez post-match. Tevez had a huge grin on his face as he and Paddy pointed fingers at each other.
The funnyman wrote alongside it: “Police are looking to contact this man in connection with an assault that took place in the Old Trafford area of Manchester last night.” Viewers at home joked Tevez was approaching the game with the ferocity of a Champions League final.
Grooming gangs have ‘nowhere to hide’ Yvette Cooper vows as damning report published
Yvette Cooper speaking in the Commons
This afternoon, our Politics team were in the Commons to listen to Yvette Cooper’s statement on grooming gangs. The Home Secretary said a “damning” report into grooming gangs found the UK has “lost more than a decade” in protecting children.
The Labour minister told MPs “vile” abusers will have “nowhere to hide” as she vowed to finally bring hundreds of evil predators to justice. She told the Commons the Government will bring in a string of new laws after Baroness Louise Casey unearthed chilling failures.
In a report published this afternoon, Baroness Casey called for a full national inquiry to highlight the harrowing abuse suffered by hundreds of children, and ensure it never happens again. Ms Cooper said: “We have lost more than a decade. That must end now.”
Brazen Prince Andrew heads to huge royal event despite King Charles ‘ban’
Andrew on Garter Day with the King, then Prince Charles, in 2015(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
As Royals gathered for the annual Garter Day this Monday, Prince Andrew was spotted heading to Windsor Castle – despite not being expected to take part in its public procession. The disgraced Duke of York was seen in a shirt and tie driving his car towards the castle for the ancient Order of the Garter ceremony as the Royal Family‘s summer season began in earnest.
The day sees those in the order gather for lunch at the castle before a procession takes place through the castle grounds that sees members dressed in white plumed hats and dark blue velvet robes. Andrew is a member of the order alongside King Charles, Queen Camilla and Prince William and is believed to be joining the annual lunch and investiture, which takes place behind closed doors.
However, he was not expected to take part in the public procession through the castle grounds – having been banished from it for the past four years. Andrew stepped down from public life after the furore over his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Hollywood star Julia Roberts was in attendance at Old Trafford for Soccer Aid 2025, which sees an England team take on Soccer Aid World XI FC in a charity football match
William Morgan Reporter and Lauren Del Fabbro PA Entertainment Reporter
22:43, 15 Jun 2025Updated 23:08, 15 Jun 2025
England coach Tyson Fury’s seven-letter swear word saw Dermot and Alex scrambling to apologise to ITV viewers(Image: PA Wire/PA Images)
Dermot O’Leary delivered a “profuse apology” to ITV audiences after Tyson Fury, the heavyweight champion, let slip some colourful language during a pre-match pep talk live on air for England’s Soccer Aid 2025 team.
The star-studded charity event at Old Trafford also saw silver screen icon Julia Roberts mingling with football legend Wayne Rooney during the annual fundraiser that pits an England squad against Soccer Aid World XI FC, all in support of Unicef.
In the throes of motivation, Fury, who took on the role of manager for the England team, couldn’t contain his passion in the dressing room speech as he dropped the seven-letter swear. He said live on ITV:
“Let them know how good we are. We are England. We are f****** Spartans. We are Spartans.”
Following the raw moment, presenters Alex Scott and Dermot O’Leary swiftly offered their apologies to viewers, with Scott commenting:
“What can I say about Tyson Fury? We do apologise for the swearing, but it is Tyson Fury, we don’t know what’s going to happen.”
Tyson Fury clearly wanted his side to be amped up for the match(Image: PA Wire/PA Images)
Adding to Scott’s sentiment, O’Leary stated: “We do profusely apologise.”
However, some viewers remained angry that Fury had used the language in the first place, with some even demanding that he should not appear on our screen again. Taking their outrage over the pre-watershed moment to X, one user said: “Why bother getting Tyson Fury on #SoccerAid2025? Of course he’s going to swear constantly on TV.”
Noting that lots of people were getting angry about his use of the F-word, @brikka49 took the mick, saying: “Hi ITV… it’s totally disgusting that uneducated idiot Tyson Fury was allowed to swear at 18:25 in the evening on the lord’s day.
“He should never appear on TV again!”
And some were just outraged that other people were outraged. @96_mikeys said: “God forbid Tyson Fury swearing on Soccer Aid, and people moaning and groaning already! Because at no point in your sad little cretin lives have you ever heard someone swear before.
“Grow up”
England player Wayne Rooney celebrates scoring their side’s first goal of the game(Image: PA Wire/PA Images)
Adding a Hollywood shine to Old Trafford was ‘Pretty Woman’ actress Roberts, a self-proclaimed Manchester United enthusiast, captured taking pictures and sharing a smile with Rooney, who not long after dazzled the crowd by netting England’s opening goal.
Other notable names wearing the England kit included ex-One Direction star Louis Tomlinson and celebrated Olympic champion Sir Mo Farah.
This year’s England team also welcomed Last of Us star Bella Ramsey, comedian Paddy McGuinness, ex-Manchester United player Gary Neville and singer Tom Grennan.
Last year saw England triumph with a 6-3 victory, marking the Three Lions’ first win in six years.
Soccer Aid was jointly established in 2006 by Robbie Williams to fundraise for children’s aid organisation Unicef. Since its inception nearly two decades ago, the charity match has raised over £106 million.
Soccer Aid, which has been running for more than two decades and has raised more than £100 million overall, had Sam Matterface as the commentator, with Iain Stirling joining him
20:31, 15 Jun 2025Updated 20:31, 15 Jun 2025
Soccer Aid viewers ‘annoyed’ as they point out Louis Tomlinson ‘issue’(Image: PA)
Soccer Aid 2025 fans were divided as they pointed out what happens every time One Direction star Louis Tomlinson has the ball. The singer joined a slew of famous faces on the pitch but the audience seemed to have their focus on the star as they screamed and cheered every single time he was passed the ball.
Fans noticed how much louder the stadium got when he had the ball and took to social media to share their divided opinions on the cheering. One fan said on X: “Take that 1D kid off people screaming for him is becoming annoying and making this match unwatchable,” while another person more kindly said: “I love the applause that so louder when Louis has the ball.”
Fans cheered extra loud for Louis Tomlinson(Image: ITV)
“That constant screaming for Louis Tomlinson is already annoying af. I think a wave go around and that’s saying something,” one viewer commented.
Another posted: “You can tell when Louis has the ball as the crowd go absolutely wild,” with a laughing emoji. “The audible squeal with Louis Tomlinson gets the ball is hilarious! These girls have never watched a full 90 minutes!”
However, one disgruntled football fan said: “do these one direction fans have to scream every time louis touches the ball ffs.”
Viewers at home were divided by the screaming(Image: ITV)
The event, which has been running for more than two decades and has raised more than £100million overall, had Sam Matterface as the commentator with Iain Stirling joining him.
England’s coaching team include the likes of Tyson Fury (Boxer), Harry Redknapp (Former football manager), Vicky McClure (Actor), David James (Former footballer) and Sam Thompson.
Former Made In Chelsea star Sam was meant to be on the pitch with the rest of the team but had to step aside after sustaining an calf injury during his gruelling 280-mile charity mission from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford.
There are plenty of well-known faces in the match
Meanwhile, the players include the likes of Steve Bartlett, Alex Brooker, Jermain Defoe, Toni Duggan, Sir Mo Farah, Angry Ginge, Tom Grennan, Joe Hart, Steph Houghton, Aaron Lennon, Dame Denise Lewis, Paddy McGuinness, Gary Neville, Sam Quek, Wayne Rooney, Paul Scoles, Jill Scott and Louis Tomlinson.
The World XI team, which is coached by Peter Schmeichel, has a few big names with the likes of Noah Beck, Tony Bellew, Leonardo Bonucci, Tobi Brown, Martin Compston, Richard Gadd and more.
Bryan Habana, Dermot Kennedy, Harry Kewell, Kaylyn Kyle, Gorka Marquez, Nadia Nadim, Livi Sheldon, Carlos Tevez, Edwin van der Sar, Nemanja Vidic, Billy Wingrove and Big Zuu are also part of the World XI team.
This year’s game is held at Old Trafford after previously being held at Stamford Bridge. Soccer Aid was also held at Old Trafford between 2010-2018 as well as most recently in 2023.
However, other venues have also been used in the past such as Wembley, Stamford Bridge, City of Manchester Stadium and London Stadium.
Soccer Aid was first launched in 2006 by former Take That star Robbie Williams and Jonathan Wilkes. It initially took place every two years but is now an annual event.
Females were first allowed to play in the game in 2019 and it is the only mixed-sex match officially sanctioned by The Football Association. 2020 saw the event held behind closed doors due to the coronavirus pandemic.
You can watch Soccer Aid 2025 live on ITV1 and ITVX will have you covered for a live stream on mobile devices*
The dancer is on the lookout for famous faces to join the BBC show and reveals which pair he’s tried to sign up
Gorka Marquez is using his Soccer Aid debut to line up celebs for Strictly(Image: PA)
Gorka Marquez is using his Soccer Aid debut to recruit celebrities for the next series of Strictly Come Dancing – and has two big names in his sights. The professional dancer takes to the pitch for the charity match tonight at Old Trafford and admits he’s being scouting for talent in the process.
Tapping up marathon legend Sir Mo Farah, 42, and presenter Big Zuu, 29, Gorka reckons they’d both be perfect additions to the BBC show. “I should be the new casting director,” laughed Gorka, 34. “I was saying to Mo Farah he should do it. The nation loves him. He is such a great inspiration for us. So him on Strictly, such a legend, and I think because he has the stamina, he’s light on his feet, he’d be brilliant. Big Zuu too. I said to him a few months ago, and today I said it again, ‘You would win Strictly,” I said, ‘and I’ll dance with you.’ He’s hilarious and he can move. He’s very good.”
Gorka lines up for the World XI FC team tonight as they take on England in the Soccer Aid for UNICEF match. England took the crown last summer and fan favourites including Lioness Jill Scott and singer Tom Grennan will be back as well new signings including boxer Tyson Fury and former England goalkeeper Joe Hart. One Direction star Louis Tomlinson returns as does Manchester United ace Wayne Rooney.
Gorka says he won’t be shirking from the tough tackles – even with Strictly just one month away. “Dancers are so robust,” he said. “We get injured and we carry on dancing, you know? We’re used to having injuries and niggles so I will be fine. I mean, I touch wood. No one gets injured. I don’t get injured. In a month of time, I’m starting Strictly so I’d hopefully be careful.”
Gorka has been impressed with Sir Mo Farah’s fancy footwork on the pitch and thinks he’d be a great on Strictly(Image: PA)
Competitive Gorka says he the celebs might be pals off the pitch, but they won’t be on it. “I’m going in,” vowed Gorka. “We wanna win, you know? We’re friends now but there’s no friends on Sunday.” Taking no prisoners, Gorka says he won’t be afraid to take on his idols. “For example, if I have to tackle Paul Scholes, I’d tackle him, then I will go, ‘I’m so sorry. Big fan!” he laughed.
Speaking at the team’s training session at Champneys in Tring, Herts, Spanish dancer Gorka said he’s was loving being involved and helping a worthwhile cause in the process. “I just feel like a bit like an imposter syndrome being here,” he admits.
“There are so many people that I admired growing up, professional footballers and celebrities like Steven Bartlett, I listen to his podcast every day. I’m very privileged and it’s so for such a great cause, raising money for children so they can have the basic things that we take for granted.”
Big Zuu has also been tapped up by Gorka (Image: Mike Marsland/WireImage)
Dad-of-two Gorka says he could pass for a footballer with his skills and look. “When I was growing up, I was playing football until I was 14 and then I choose dancing,” he explained. “A lot of people said I could have been a footballer. They say I look more like one than a dancer because of my tattoos. With dancing, you have to have co coordination. You have to change your rhythms, have speed, stamina, so it pays off on the pitch.”
Gorka says fiance Gemma and kid Mia and Thiago will be watching his Soccer Aid debut from home(Image: UKTV/Mark Forrer)
But he says don’t bet on him scoring any goals. “When I’m in front of the goalkeeper, I might have the wrong foot to score, because I’m like a penguin!” laughed Gorka, who says fiancé Gemma Atkinson, 40, and their two children Mia, five, and Thiago, one, will be watching from home.
Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2025 will take place on Sunday 15th June at Old Trafford, Manchester and will be shown live exclusively on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player. Donate to UNICEF ahead of the match at socceraid.org.uk/donate. This year, thanks to the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, every donation you make to Soccer Aid for UNICEF will be doubled – up to £5 million.
THE squads for this year’s Soccer Aid have finally been confirmed, with the iconic charity match kicking off TONIGHT!
Tyson Fury will co-manage England at the charity match for Unicef alongside Wayne Rooney, who is out of retirement to play and manage alongside the former heavyweight champion.
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Tyson Fury is England manager and Wayne Rooney is player-manager for the charity match
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Joe Hart will be in between the sticks
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Legendary defender Leonardo Bonucci will also make his debut for the World XI
Fury has refused to rule out the mouthwatering prospect of subbing himself on and forming a partnership with Manchester United’s all-time record goalscorer Rooney.
Upon his announcement, Tyson Fury said: “ENGLAND MANAGER! Who would ever have thought it!?
“I have had some big fights in my career and the prospect of leading my England team to victory this June fills me with just as much excitement as any heavyweight fight!
“Everyone knows that I am a huge Manchester United fan too, so it’s even more special for me that the game is at Old Trafford this year – and I get to manage one of my heroes, Wayne Rooney!
“How can we lose!? The work UNICEF does all around the world is so special and so important.
“I really hope that you can come along and support us this summer.”
Old Trafford will host the game, with Stamford Bridge and the London Stadium hosting the match in recent years.
England won Soccer Aid 2024 edition 6-3 to end a SIX-YEAR wait to beat the World XI.
Who is playing at Soccer Aid 2025?
Here are the full line-ups for this year’s Soccer Aid:
*Subject to change
England full team at Soccer Aid 2025:
Steven Bartlett (Entrepreneur)
Alex Brooker (TV personality)
Jermain Defoe (Former footballer)
Toni Duggan (Former footballer)
Angry Ginge (YouTuber)
Tom Grennan (Musician)
Bear Grylls (TV personality)
Joe Hart (Former footballer)
Steph Houghton (Former footballer)
Aaron Lennon (Former footballer)
Dame Denise Lewis (Olympic gold medallist)
Paddy McGuinness (TV personality)
Sir Mo Farah (Former Olympian)
Gary Neville (Former footballer)
Sam Quek (Former hockey player/TV personality)
Wayne Rooney (Former footballer and manager)
Paul Scholes (Former footballer)
Jill Scott (Former footballer)
Sam Thompson (King of the Jungle)
Louis Tomlinson (Musician)
Michael Carrick (Former footballer)
Phil Jagielka (Former footballer)
Roman Kemp (Radio host)
Jack Wilshere (Former footballer)
Bella Ramsey (Actor)
And the following will be coaching England:
Wayne Rooney (Former footballer and manager)
Tyson Fury (Boxer)
Harry Redknapp (Former football manager)
Vicky McClure (Actor)
Goalkeeping coach: David James (Former footballer)
World XI full team at Soccer Aid 2025:
Tony Bellew (Former boxer)
Leonardo Bonucci (Former footballer)
Tobi Brown (YouTube star)
Martin Compston (Actor)
Richard Gadd (Actor)
Bryan Habana (Former rugby star)
Dermot Kennedy (Musician)
Kaylyn Kyle (Former footballer)
Gorka Marquez (Dancer)
Nadia Nadim (Footballer)
Livi Sheldon (Gladiators star)
Edwin van der Sar (Former footballer)
Nemanja Vidic (Former footballer)
Harry Kewell (Former footballer)
Big Zuu (YouTube star)
Noah Beck (Actor)
Carlos Tevez (Former footballer)
Billy Wingrove (Football freestyler)
Robbie Keane (Former footballer)
John O’Shea (Former footballer)
Maisie Adam (Comedian)
David Trezeguet (Former footballer)
Nicky Byrne (Singer)
Kheira Hamraoui (Former footballer)
Asim Chaudhry (Comedian)
World XI manager:
Hosts
Commentators
Sam Matterface
Iain Sterling
Jason Manford
Officials
Rebecca Welsh
Natalie Aspinall
Emily Carney
Jane Simms
When is Soccer Aid 2025?
The match takes place at Old Trafford on Sunday, June 15.
Tickets cost from £20 for adults and £10 for concessions.
The match will be aired for FREE on ITV and streamed on ITVX.
The two men were both due to take part in Soccer Aid tomorrow, but it was revealed exclusively by The Sun yesterday that the I’m A Celeb champ had pull out due to injury.
However, before Sam was forced to quit, he was he was pictured training with Louis this week at Soccer Aid HQ in Tring, Herts, where the England and Rest of the World teams have been preparing for the match.
read more on Sam Thompson
After looking at the pictures in detail, a body language expert believes that Louis displayed a “playground mentality” towards Sam on the pitch.
Expert Judi James said that while Sam was smiling and happy, and get along with the other players, One Direction star Louis seemed “glum” and “separate”.
She told The Mail: ‘There seems to be more of a playground dynamic growing from the body language here.
“Sam seems to be very much part of the core group, sitting central and being the center of their attention while Louis walks by looking glum at times and rather peripheral to the social interaction.
“As the guys club around Sam, who looks deep in the discussion, Louis seems to glance over with a rather hard-looking stare.
“His eye direction might not be exclusively aimed at Sam, but he does seem to be checking the group out with an unsmiling facial expression.”
Louis Tomlinson admits feeling nervous ahead of Soccer Aid as Zara’s ex Sam Thompson awkwardly hovers behind him
Continuing she said: “When the two men meet on the pitch there is an unsmiling, reflective-looking gaze from Louis.
“This shouldn’t be over-dramatized into any form of specifically directed ‘hard stare’ as his eye direction does not seem to be aimed directly at Sam, but there could be seen to be a hint of some kind of ‘atmosphere’ brewing here.
“With his hands on his hips, Louis does look really down and perhaps rather uncomfortable.”
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The expert said that Louis appeared to ‘distance’ himself from his other team matesCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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Sam pulled out of Soccer Aid yesterdayCredit: PA
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Sam completed his Match Ball Mission for Soccer Aid Unicef, running and cycling from Stamford Bridge in London to Old Trafford in ManchesterCredit: Splash
While new shows are set to air this week, Soccer Aid also makes comeback to ITV with a multitude of familiar faces – from Tyson Fury to Jill Scott – taking part in the challenge.
Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell will host the newest series of Long Lost Family(Image: ITV)
Another week of TV lies ahead, with plenty of shows to keep everybody happy – from nail-biting dramas and hard-hitting documentaries to long-awaited favourites.
For Channel 4, on the other hand, Silent Witness actress Emilia Fox leaves no stone unturned as she explores some of Britain’s unresolved cases alongside Professor David Wilson in the third series of true crime show, In The Footsteps of Killers.
Ryan Reynolds narrates a light-hearted documentary about nature’s benchwarmers – from insects to amphibians(Image: National Geographic)
Underdogs
Monday, Disney+
Ryan Reynolds flips the script and pays tribute to the bottom of the food chain in this light-hearted documentary. Teaming up with National Geographic, the Deadpool star lifts the lid on the secret lives of nature’s benchwarmers, from slugs and insects to amphibians and fish.
Featuring a range of never-before-filmed scenes, each episode of this five-part series shines alight on their bizarre mating strategies, dubious parenting skills and even their most nauseating behaviours as it finally gives these overlooked superstars their well-deserved glory.
Old Trafford plays host to the world’s biggest celebrity charity match with Tyson Fury and Wayne Rooney set to co-manage England(Image: PA)
Soccer Aid for UNICEF
Sunday, ITV1
Old Trafford plays host to the world’s biggest celebrity charity match once again, as Soccer Aid for UNICEF returns for its 2025 showdown.
This year’s star-studded line-up sees the England team face off against the Soccer Aid XI FC in a match that’s as much about heart as it is about goals.
This chilling new crime thriller plunges us into Bolzano, Southern Tyrol, where Italian detective Paolo (played by Matteo Martari) is forced to face his past when a serial killer he once hunted – costing him a leg and his girlfriend – resurfaces after years in hiding, targeting German-speaking victims.
Caught up in a cold case that turns into an obsession, Paolo teams up with the sharp and ambitious assistant DA Eva Kofler (Elena Radonicich) as the pair navigate cultural divides, buried trauma and grisly secrets in this stylish, slow-burn nail-biter.
My Life is Murder
Tuesday, 9pm, U&Alibi
Lucy Lawless reprises her role as PI Alexa Crowe in the fourth season of this loveable crime drama from Down Under. When a wealthy socialite dies in suspicious circumstances, leaving her entire fortune to her cat, Alexa investigates a heady world of high society gossip.
Aided by tech guru Madison (Ebony Vagulans), cafe owner Reuben (Joe Naufahu), brother Will (Martin Henderson) and detective Harry (Rawiri Jobe), Alexa also comes face to face with new potential enemies with Bill Bailey and Rodger Corser making guest appearances.
Professor David Wilson and Emilia Fox return to screens to front the third season of In the Footsteps of Killers(Image: Channel 4)
In the Footsteps of Killers
Tuesday, C4
Emilia Fox (Silent Witness) returns alongside leading criminologist Professor David Wilson for the gripping third season of In the Footsteps of Killers. Each episode sees the pair reopen Britain’s most baffling unsolved murders – cold cases left gathering dust for decades.
Armed with cutting-edge forensic science and razor-sharp criminological insight, they retrace the victim’s final moments, challenge old assumptions, and uncover fresh leads the original investigations missed. It’s real-time justice in motion.
The Buccaneers return for a second season on Apple TV+(Image: Copyrighted)
The Buccaneers
Wednesday, Apple TV+
After invading the tightly corseted London of the 1870s, the American Buccaneers are fully settled in the second season of the eponymous show – in fact, they’re practically running the place.
Kristine Froseth, Josie Totah, Alisha Boe, Aubri Ibrag and Imogen Waterhouse all reprise their roles as the fun-loving American girls alongside Matthew Broome, Christina Hendricks and Guy Remmers.
Nan now has to navigate influence and power, while Jinny is thrown into the spotlight when she’s wanted for the kidnap of her unborn child. The girls wrestle everything from romance, jealousy and even death as they fight to be heard.
Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell meet new people to help them reconnect with their Long Lost Family(Image: ITV)
Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace
Wednesday, ITV
Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell return for the deeply moving seventh series of Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace. Across three captivating episodes, the team helps individuals who were abandoned as babies discover their biological roots using advanced DNA testing and archival detective work.
With the steady hand of social worker Ariel Bruce, stories unfold that span continents and decades. Heartbreaking yet hopeful, this series remains a tribute to resilience, identity and the enduring human need to belong.
Outrageous is a thrilling look at the lives of the Mitford sisters(Image: KEVIN BAKER)
Outrageous
Thursday, 9pm, U&Drama
Scandal and ideology explode in Outrageous, a darkly-elegant period drama based on the real-life Mitford sisters. At the centre is Susan (Bessie Carter), a whip-smart journalist whose literary voice clashes with the rising fascism of 1930s Britain.
Meanwhile, her sisters fall under the spell of dangerous men: Diana (Joanna Vanderham) is seduced by Oswald Mosley while Unity (Shannon Watson) becomes shockingly smitten with Adolf Hitler. As the world teeters on war, family bonds are pushed to their limits in this gripping tale of loyalty, betrayal and legacy.
Prost
Thursday, BBC4
Four-time World Champion, winner of 51 Grands Prix and F1 legend Alain Prost looks back on his lifelong career, spanning throughout more than four decades in this enlightening six-part series.
From his childhood passion for karting and the ranks to Formula 3 to his triumphs and losses, this show also delves deep into Alain’s iconic rivalry with teammate Ayrton Senna – who eventually became an unexpected friend.
Phyllis Logan stars as Cora Felton in Murder Most Puzzling
Murder Most Puzzling
Thursday, C5
Downton Abbey’s Phyllis Logan swaps stately homes for sleuthing in this charming new six-part crime drama. As Cora Felton, a sassy, wine-loving crossword columnist with a sharp tongue and even sharper mind, she’s unexpectedly drawn into a murder investigation when a teenage girl is found dead – and a bizarre crossword clue is left by the body.
Teaming up with the reluctant DCI Hooper (Adam Best), Cora becomes the police’s wildcard, solving puzzles and crossing lines in equal measure. Think Miss Marple and Ludwig – but with extra sass.
Corsica: Jewel of the Med
Friday, 5
With 600 miles of stunning coastline, Corsica is known as the island of beauty. Now, for 5, this show delves deep into the nation’s lush green forests and majestic mountains and its rich history blending both Italian and French heritage.
The journey takes viewers from Bastia, a foodie paradise on the northeast coast of the island, to its capital, Ajaccio, among the west coast’s thriving hillsides – the birthplace of one of the world’s most famous military leaders, Napoleon Bonaparte.
Isle of Wight Festival
Friday, Sky
The party kicks off at Seaclose Park with an access-all-areas backstage pass to the summer’s hottest ticket, The Isle of Wight festival 2025.
From the incomparable Sting to the legendary Stereophonics, household names take to the main stage – but that’s not all viewers can expect.
From Deal or No Deal to rural New Zealand, Noel Edmonds has made the ultimate career pivot – and now, he’s inviting viewers along for the ride.
Having ditched UK fame for a new life in the remote village of Ngatimoti, Noel’s now embarking on a bold eco-project: creating the country’s first ever energy garden.
But with unrelenting weather, cultural clashes and a community slow to warm up, it’s no easy ride. Can he make his Kiwi dream grow – or will it wilt?
Joining them is a cool crew of celebs including Paddy McGuinness, Sam Quek and Tom Grennan. While the World XI team includes Richard Gadd, Edwin van der Sar, Martin Compston and Tony Bellew.
Sam has got a dual role: as well as playing on the pitch, he’s also been running and cycling 260 miles to hand-deliver the ball to Old Trafford and raise more money in a challenge called Matchball Mission for Unicef.
“One of the most special things about Soccer Aid for UNICEF is the togetherness that it brings out,” says Sam, 32. “I’ll never forget being sat at that training dinner table watching the television screens of UNICEF’s great work. People were shedding tears – everyone’s in it together. When we realised we’d helped to raise a record milestone of over £100 million since the game first began, the cheer that went up was bigger than the cheer of winning the actual game, which I think is quite telling.”
Sam Thompson and Louis Thomlinson have more than just Zara McDermott in common – they will both play for England at Soccer Aid 2025(Image: UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures/REX/Shutterstock)
Tears also played a part when Sam crossed the finish line on Friday as he delivered the match ball to Old Trafford and got a congratulatory message from Prime Minister Kier Starmer.
He told the Mirror it’s “mad” that the Prime Minister said he was “inspiring”. “I can’t believe the prime minister knows my name,” Sam said. “I’m on double codeine and paracetamol… I am not going to lie, it hurts a lot,” Sam admitted as he walked to a nearby hotel.
The 32 year old, who has already raised over £1.5 million from the challenge, confessed: “I am totally broken – but so happy . The fact this challenge has grabbed everyone’s attention is just so incredible and I have just been blown away!”
And yesterday he was crying again on This Morning yesterday as he recalled the feat, telling Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley: “I’ve gotto stop crying! You’re making me so emotional, so many tears man.”
Sam Thompson and Zara McDermott dated and talked about marriage before splitting late last year(Image: Instagram)
Soccer Aid host Dermot O’Leary is also returning and says half-time is his favourite part of the match because he gets to play pundit. “You have these special moments, it’s a laugh and you’re watching a game of football and you’re seeing goals,” says the 52-year-old.
Former One Direction star Louis lists playing with Ronaldinho as one of his greatest Soccer Aid memories, but for Jill, it’s buddying up with Football Factory star Danny Dyer that makes her day.
“He’s my type of player,” grins Jill, 38. “Strong tackles, probably swears a little bit too much, but I love that passion and football aggression!”
Alex Brooker is facing off the Banker in tonight’s Soccer Aid special
20:19, 07 Jun 2025Updated 20:50, 07 Jun 2025
A Deal or No Deal contestant has been dealt a huge blow, losing the £100K jackpot just minutes into the ITV show.
Saturday Night’s (7th June) Soccer Aid episode saw The Last Leg co-host Alex Brooker facing off the Banker, supported by a star-studded panel.
In a bid to win up to £100,000 for UNICEF, Alex gunned for the cash prize assisted by celebrities, including former England player Jill Scott and Irish actor Emmett J. Scanlan.
However, the TV presenter was left devastated when he selected his brother Tom’s box, hoping to strike blue.
Initially optimistic about his choice, Alex told host Stephen Mulhern “I think my brother Tom, number eight, has got 50p in there [the box.”
Alex Brooker lost the jackpot just minutes into the show (Image: ITV)
Tom was equally confident, agreeing with his sibling that the box likely contained 50p. But the duo were dealt a huge blow as Tom opened his box to find £100,000 inside.
The Soccer Aid team was visibly upset, and they were not alone. Viewers have taken to X, formerly Twitter, to echo their frustration at the huge loss.
One penned: “Oh no! The £100K is gone,” while a second voiced out: “£100K gone. I’m furious and raging.”
Other ITV fans were quick to question the star’s process. “Why hasn’t he got a system? Lucky numbers & bad numbers. Looks like he’s just choosing randomly with no strategy,” quipped one.
Alex walked away with £13,780(Image: ITV)
Despite his early disappointment, Alex later accepted the Banker’s offer of £13,780. The Soccer Aid team was happy with his final deal, with viewers agreeing that “he made the right choice.”
Taking to X, one person praised the final deal, stating: “That’s a lot of money for charity.” Meanwhile, a second fan said: “Well done, Alex. A tremendous amount of vital funds in the bank.”
Started by Robbie Williams in 2006, Soccer Aid for UNICEF is a celebrity football fundraising event, with profits going to UNICEF’s global mission to protect children’s right play.
This year’s game kicks off next Sunday (15th June), with Brooker on the line-up alongside Sir Mo Farah, TV star Bear Grylls, singer Tom Grennan and social media sensation Morgan Burtwistle.
Deal or No Deal Celebrity Special is streaming on ITVX
