An Emmerdale star suffered an injury away from the set of the ITV soap and script writers had to acknowledge it in the latest episode of the long-running programme
00:02, 23 Sep 2025Updated 00:05, 23 Sep 2025
The injury was addressed in-universe when Tracy asked Mary how she had ended up walking with a cane(Image: ITV)
Emmerdale writers had to incorporate the real-life injury of one of its stars into Monday night’s episode. The ITV soap was in its usual slot at the beginning of the week, and Mary Goskirk (Louise Jameson) was seen walking with a cane.
In the Woolpack, Tracy Robinson (Amy Walsh) spotted Mary’s ailment when she ordered a drink and asked: “So, did you have a fall?”, but Mary seemingly issued a joke back.
As Mary handed her a glass of white wine, she told her: “No, I did it bungee jumping!”
Soaps tend to film around six to eight weeks ahead of broadcast, and actress Louise, 74, who is also known for her roles in other TV staples like EastEnders and Doctor Who, first told her fans of her leg injury in July, and noted that it had forced her to take time out of a her one woman show.
At the time, she wrote on X: “I’ve taken the ‘break a leg’ advice to its extreme. Apologies for the cancelled shows in Harrogate and Leeds of SHAKESPEARE’S MISTRESS. Rescheduling for the Autumn.
“In the meantime I lie here in my splint. Big shout out to LGI @NHS who took care of me last Monday [heart emoji].”
When a fan asked her: “Get well soon Louise is there an exciting tale behind the injury? Xx,” she replied: “Nope… A boring old fall xxx”
Earlier this year, fans were left uncertain whether an injury had actually occurred in real life after Mary sported a bandage wrapped around her hand and lower arm.
The character Mary explained that she’d fallen down the last couple of steps of the staircase at home, no doubt hitting or landing on the arm. She didn’t say specially what the injury was or if it was broken or sprained.
What she did say though was that she was fine after the fall, and would need a few weeks of rest before she could get the bandages off. Jacob appeared alarmed though, offering to take a look at the injury. She seemed keen to brush it under the carpet while it was clear Jacob was worried. It wasn’t made clear if Mary went to hospital or a doctor to get it checked out, or if she bandaged it up herself.
It was not clarified at the time whether it was an injury that had happened in real life, but it could have been a similar situation with scriptwriters having to work it into the story.
This often happens, and just recently on Coronation Street Kit Green actor Jacob Roberts had surgery on his leg and it was seemingly written into the show. There have been many other instances over the years where an injury or something else is written in.
Prior to that, Simon Gregson, who has played taxi driver Steve McDonald on Coronation Street since 1989, sustained a leg injury and it had to be put into the show.
He said: “I’ve broken my leg. I literally just went over and rolled my ankle, outside the back of the house. It was done in six places.
“I’m able to drive now, but walking across wet fields is a no for me. Because if I slip it’s back to square one.”
Asked if Corrie had to write his broken leg into the script, he said: “Yeah, they’ve written it in. They just kind of spoke about it. It’s like when Bobby Ewing woke up in the shower [in Dallas]. No one cares after about five minutes.”
The series kicked off this weekend with the highly anticipated launch show, with the celebrities meeting their professional partners for the first time
11:40, 21 Sep 2025Updated 11:40, 21 Sep 2025
Two Strictly Come Dancing stars have already secured a huge advantage(Image: BBC)
Strictly Come Dancing is back on our screens with a bang after an epic launch show which saw this year’s batch of famous faces paired up with their professional partners.
Viewers tuned in to see the 15 celebrities meet their dance partners as well as perform in a huge group dance for the very first time as the real competition begins next week.
However, before this year’s crop even shows off their dance moves or lack of, two celebrities have already secured a huge advantage. The bookies have declared which contestants are favourites to win and there’s two that are at the top of the list, according to Paddy Power.
Currently, Emmerdale star and late entrant, Lewis Cope is leading the pack with a bookies odds of 12/5 and just behind him is Love Island winner Dani Dyer, who is on 7/2 at the time of writing.
Rounding out the top five are model Ellie Goldstein with 6/1, social media sensation George Clarke at 9/1 and Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.
Emmerdale star Lewis Cope is currently bookies favourite to win (Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray Burmiston)
Love Island legend Dani Dyer could also win the show, according to bookies(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray Burmiston)
On the other end and currently the least favourites to win are former rugby ace Chris Robshaw and Lorraine showbiz correspondent Ross King, who have outside chances of winning at 100/1.
This makes these two contestants favourites to leave the show first, with Ross at 5/2 to exit the show first, with Chris at 3/1.
During the launch show, the first pairings unveiled were Lewis with Katya Jones, Dani with Nikita Kuzmin, Ross and Jowita Przystal, Chris and Nadiya Bychkova and Drag Race UK’s La Voix with Aljaz Skorjanec.
The next to be revealed were Vicky Pattison and Kai Widdrington, Alex Kingston and Johannes Radebe, Ellie and Vito Coppola, Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon plus Karen Carney and Carlos Gu.
The final matches were confirmed as Harry and Karen Hauer, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Lauren Oakley, George and Alexis Warr, Stefan Dennis and Dianne Buswell as well as Thomas Skinner and Amy Dowden.
Following the announcement, many fans sadly predicted Ross would be first out as one said: “Poor Jowita out first.” Another added: “Sorry Jowita, it’s an early exit for you this year.”
Eagle-eyed viewers also revealed they think they’ve spotted early signs of tensions between one celebrity and their dance partner. The Apprentice 2019 star Thomas was paired with Welsh beauty Amy but viewers are convinced the two will clash.
Eyebrows were raised when show hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly introduced the coupled up dancers and interviewed them about their early experiences together. Talking to Thomas and Amy in the green room, Claudia asked the former Apprentice hopeful what his dream Strictly breakfast would be.
Some Strictly viewers think they saw tension between partners Thomas Skinner and Amy Dowden(Image: BBC)
He replied: “The best breakfast. We’re going down Deano’s cafe, nice and early, before we get started, get spicy Korean noodles, with chicken breasts and poached eggs and a little bit of Tabasco sauce.
He continued: “Or, if you don’t fancy that, we can have the sunshine chicken curry with the round chips.”
But fans noticed that Amy didn’t look convinced by Thomas’s suggestion, commented that they would beed to dance some of their routines close together, and remarked: “I really hope your food doesn’t repeat on you whilst you dance.”
Thomas then suggested he would be able to freshen his breath with chewing gum before they needed to dance closely. But viewers were convinced they could smell friction between the pair.
Taking to X, one shared a screenshot of Amy’s distressed expression that she pulled when Thomas was describing his dream breakfast. They wrote: “Oh Amy you poor thing getting put with skinner.”
And another shared a similar screenshot and wrote: “Amy Dowden’s face speaking for everybody at the same time… #Strictly #TomSkinner.”
STRICTLY Come Dancing is already in a fix row midway through the launch show.
The complaints from fans come after one of the star’s YEARS of dance experience was revealed.
EmmerdaleactorLewis Cope isn’t just good at acting, because he is an experienced dancer too.
He previously competed in a dancing world championship final three times.
The soap hunk has been dancing since the age of 10-years-old and has appeared on TV before.
Reacting to Lewis’ prior dancing experience, one fan said: “I need lewis to stop pretending he’s not a trained dancer.”
“Another Billy Elliot ex-pro dancer. tut tut,” penned a second.
A third then wrote: “Just give lewis the trophy now. He looks the part without seeing him move.”
While a fourth said: “Lewis is such a natural mover. His theatre experience will really help him as well. He’s definitely making that final I can feel it.”
“How will Lewis Cope on the dancefloor? I reckon he’ll be just fine,” said a fifth.
A sixth then penned: “the way lewis is blatantly gonna win is p***ing me off.”
While a seventh said: “So lewis is a dancer.”
Lewis previously spent eight years in the dance group, Ruff Diamond who were runners up in Sky TV’s Got to Dance competition.
But he wouldn’t listen and in the end the manager felt the Argentine youngster was bringing a negative vibe to the dressing room.
And his regular outbursts on social media – as well as the mainstream media – also riled the former Sporting Lisbon coach.
Amorim was looking forward to working with the winger when he took over in November but that all changed after his conduct in Plzen in December.
The coach also tired of Garnacho’s moodiness and temper tantrums when things were not going his way.
So in the end a parting of the ways became inevitable and sources close to Amorim say he has not regretted his stance once.
Could that change if the Carrington graduate inspires a Chelsea win at the Theatre of Dreams this weekend though?
Battle to keep ‘Kid Messi’
UNITED starlet JJ Gabriel continues to catch the eye with his performances both within the club’s academy and further afield.
A host of German clubs are understood to have made their interest in him clear should he and his family wish to follow in the footsteps of Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho by leaving England to further his career in the Bundesliga.
The 14-year-old, who recently enjoyed a holiday in Barcelona, is contracted with United until the end of next season, and has produced a string of impressive performances after being promoted to the U18s.
A source said: “The success of the likes of Bellingham and Sancho in Germany is a big selling point for German clubs trying to poach some of the Premier League’s best young talents.
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JJ Gabriel has drawn interest from GermanyCredit: Getty
“They can offer them first team football at an earlier age than a lot of clubs in the UK.”
United remain convinced they gave JJ and his family compelling reasons why Carrington remains the best place for him to continue his development.
The teenager has met with manager Amorim and could well spend time training with the first team squad this season.
His development is being closely monitored by United U18s boss Darren Fletcher.
Under the knife
SPEAKING of Fletcher, his success as U18s academy boss has been noted with four wins out of four so far this season.
It’s all the more impressive given the former midfielder injured himself during a United v Celtic legends game earlier this month raised money for both clubs’ foundations.
Fletcher opened the scoring in the game which ended 2-2 before Celtic clinched victory on penalties.
Fletcher, 41, underwent an operation on his knee this week as a result, but refused to take time off and has been on the sidelines for each game.
A source said: “He’s Scottish. He’s made of tough stuff.”
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Darren Fletcher had surgery after damaging his knee during the United Legends game at Celtic ParkCredit: Kenny Ramsay
Denis Irwin’s sweet return
UNITED fans are invited to engage with three organisations doing big work to improve men’s mental health at Old Trafford this Saturday.
Representatives from ‘Andy’s Man Club’ will be stationed within the Pop-Up Pub by the Stretford End, inviting supporters to learn more about the suicide prevention charity.
The group offers free peer-to-peer support groups across the UK and online, as part of their mission to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health through the power of conversation.
Fans with tickets to the game can enjoy live music, fast pours, local food and a Q&A with club legends Denis Irwin and Gary Pallister.
Salford-based charity ‘Talk About It Mate’ will also have a space in the East Stand forecourt from 2pm before kick-off.
CHIDO Obi enjoyed a meteoric rise last season, signing for United from Arsenal and quickly making his first team debut under Amorim.
The 17-year-old went on to make seven first team appearances but has found himself back down the pecking order after United splashed out £74m on Slovenian target man Benjamin Sesko.
And while Danish international Chido hasn’t been on the bench for any first team games this season, his development – in both size and skill – are continuing at the academy.
A source said: “Chido is still sometimes involved in first team training now but the noticeable development for him is his size.
“He is a tall boy but has started to put on some significant muscle on his frame, which he needs.”
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Chido Obi is continuing to develop in the academyCredit: Getty
Chido is working under the guidance of United’s sharpest academy coaches who regularly provide updates to Amorim.
United’s U21 boss Travis Binnion said earlier this season: “We have not even scraped the top of the iceberg with him yet. There is loads to come.
“He is dying to be a footballer. He is hungry. He is learning the game. He is learning how to project himself and how to play in a team.
“For us, he is a priority. He is 17. He needs to understand this is a golden period to develop his game.”
Hitman tribute
RICKY HATTON may have been a Blue, but United’s players, staff and fans were equally as devastated by news of his passing before Sunday’s derby.
Many of the first team had met the boxer at big fights and were admirers of his hugely successful career, which delighted fans from both sides of Manchester.
The club intends to mark his tragic passing in the programme for the clash against Chelsea.
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Ricky Hatton was found dead in his Manchester home last Sunday
Gemma and Gorka have been dating since 2018Credit: Instagram
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The duo met in 2017 as Strictly Come Dancing cast-matesCredit: Instagram
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They’re now engaged and share two childrenCredit: instagram/glouiseatkinson
But funnily enough Gemma, 40, and Gorka, 35, weren’t actually coupled up during their time on the show.
Their relationship blossomed off-screen, with the duo beginning to officially date in 2018.
They got engaged three years later and now share a son and a daughter – Mia, five, and son Thiago, two.
After years of being engaged, Gemma has revealed why the couple have been waiting so long to walk down the aisle – and why they plan to wait even longer.
Read Strictly Come Dancing
In an interview Gemma said: “We’ve toyed about doing it in Spain so his [Gorka’s] family can come.
“We’ve even thought about doing it in a registry office or a hotel in Manchester, just the two of us, and then have a big party after.”
But what the lovebirds have settled on couldn’t be sweeter or more thoughtful.
“I think now we want to wait until Thiago is a bit older, so maybe next year or the year after, as he’s only two.
“If he’s a bit older, he could be involved in it, which would be really nice.”
Back in 2022 Gemma announced that herself and Gorka had to postpone their previously-planned wedding.
Strictly’s Gorka Marquez breaks down in tears as he pays tribute to Gemma Aktinson as he leaves her and their kids for weeks
The cancellation came about due to incredibly busy schedules on both ends, with Gorka busy as a professional dancer and Gemma as a radio host.
The pair were also wishing to prioritise trying for another baby instead of splashing out on a lavish event.
The wedding update comes only months after Gemma and Gorka found out that their reality TV show Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind The Lens had not been renewed for a third season on Apple TV.
It was devastating news for the couple, as the show had performed really well.
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They’re waiting to tie the knot so their youngest child can participate in the dayCredit: Instagram
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They weren’t dance partners during their Strictly daysCredit: PA
Artists, activists, and performers came together at the Together for Palestine concert at London’s Wembley Arena to show their support for Palestinians and raise funds for humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
It looks like wowing the judges on “Dancing With the Stars” is now an Irwin family tradition.
Robert Irwin hit the stage Tuesday for the first time with pro partner Witney Carson on the Season 34 premiere of “Dancing With the Stars,” knocking out an upbeat jive set to “Born to Be Wild.” The first thing the wildlife conservationist did after nailing the routine was run to hug his sister, Bindi Irwin, who was in the audience along with other family and friends.
The judges called the performance, which closed out the night, “absolutely brilliant.”
“Crocs are my comfort zone, dancing is not,” Robert Irwin said in the introductory package that was shown right before his performance. In the same compilation, Carson explained that a jive is difficult for a first dance and praised Irwin’s positivity.
Bruno Tonioli was the first judge to address the pair, getting on his feet to tell Irwin that the performance “wasn’t [just] good, that was great.”
Derek Hough, who was Bindi’s pro partner when they won the Mirror Ball during “Dancing With the Stars” Season 21, told Robert that he was “so relieved because you had some big shoes to fill.”
“You didn’t just fill them; you owned those shoes,” said Hough, who asked if Irwin had been practicing for this moment for the last 10 years. “That was probably the best first dance I’ve ever seen on this show.”
Earlier in the episode, Irwin said that when he watched his sister win 10 years ago, he had thought, “One day, that’s going to be me.”
Watching Bindi win in 2015 also served as preparation for Robert.
“I feel like I had a good idea of what this show was about coming into it, cause my sister had done it,” Irvin told E! News. “Bindi just said, ‘Take a breath and enjoy every single second of it … really try and enjoy this cause it goes by so fast.’”
Irwin and Carson was awarded 15 points, which put them in a tie for top marks alongside team Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas.
SINGER Dua Lipa looks all strung out in a black dress — but manages to hold it all together.
The 30-year-old showed off her fringe benefits in the stunning gown, which she wore to the Harper’s Bazaar Icons dinner in New York City.
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Singer Dua Lipa stuns in a black gownCredit: Getty
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She wore the dress to the Harper’s Bazaar Icons dinner in New York CityCredit: Getty
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Dua posted pictures on Instagram of herself doing yoga in her hotel roomCredit: Instagram
The Levitating singer is in the United States for her Radical Optimism world tour but took a break to party with stars including Benny Blanco and Sadie Sink.
Earlier, she posted pictures on Instagram of herself doing yoga in her hotel room.
The couple, who got engaged last Christmas, have called on a property expert to tap up a series of very posh holiday homes in Andalusia in southernSpain.
A source said: “Dua and Callum are looking for a sunny bolthole to enjoy with their families.
“Their preference has been pretty clear: nice weather and properties that have space.
“They have a man scouting for homes in Portugal and Andalusia, which have amazing weather all-year round.
“The house has to be able to comfortably fit Dua and Callum, as well as their family and friends.
“They also want peace and tranquility, that has been made very clear.
“Dua and Callum have a healthy budget too. They’ve been sent details on properties priced between £3million and £9million and are weighing them up.
Inside Dua Lipa’s one-off 184mph Porsche 911 GT3 RS set to raise £100,000s for charity
Adam Schefter, the most plugged-in NFL reporter anywhere, did in fact begin an X.com post Monday with the words “Tom Brady is coming out of retirement” — but he didn’t mean that the greatest quarterback of all time was actually doing so.
He won’t suit up to spell Joe Burrow while the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback nurses his turf toe back to health. He won’t nudge Russell Wilson into retirement and join the New York Giants.
What Brady, 48, will do is play in a flag football tournament in Saudi Arabia next March.
At least that’s what Schefter wrote.
Brady will join fellow retired New England Patriots star Rob Gronkowski and a host of current NFL standouts including Saquon Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, CeeDee Lamb, Maxx Crosby, Sauce Gardner and Myles Garrett in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, a three-team tournament to be held March 21, 2026, in Riyadh.
Pete Carroll, Sean Payton and Kyle Shanahan will coach the three five-player teams. The tournament will be held at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh and televised by Fox Sports, with comedian Kevin Hart hosting.
The whole thing sounds like fun. It is, however, a business plan disguised as a promotional stunt.
The NFL makes no secret that it is going global — witness the season opener in São Paulo between the Chiefs and Chargers. And Saudi Arabia makes no secret about broadening its sports holdings, investing billions through its Public Investment Fund in an attempt to expand its oil-based economy and mend its international image.
“It is just a great opportunity to expand the game globally,” Brady said in a statement. “Sometimes, you have to get outside your comfort zone to create awareness.”
The NFL will play six more regular-season games overseas this season, three in London and one each in Dublin, Berlin and Madrid.
Flag football has become an easy way to introduce the game to new markets. The NFL has encouraged states to play flag football in high school, and it has become particularly popular as a girls sport.
Channel 4 hit show Gogglebox has been a staple on our screens since 2013 and sees much-loved faces speaking about the week’s biggest TV moments
Gogglebox has been on our screens since 2013(Image: mirror.co.uk)
The Gogglebox cast have become well-known faces ever since the show first kicked off back in 2013. Viewers get ready each week to watch the reactions of their favourite sofa-sitters as they give their opinions on the week’s biggest TV moments.
Some of those that grace our screens each week have been there ever since the show began more than a decade ago. However it hasn’t been smooth sailing for all of the families.
They have been open about ups and downs in their lives over this time and this has included health struggles. Here’s a look at the iconic TV critics’ health worries over the years.
Tremaine Plummer who joined Gogglebox in 2016 alongside his brothers celebrated five years cancer-free after suffering from bowel cancer in 2020.
He shared a photo of himself where he was in a hospital bed during his treatment as well as sharing a caption where he admitted he used to hate the picture.
He said: “When I first saw this photo it made me feel sick and weak. I hated this photo for a long time. But now this photo is my medal. This was me 5 years ago. Post surgery for bowel cancer.”
“One of the worst things that could have happened to me has turned into one of the best. Not everything bad that happens to you is the end. Out of some bad s*** comes good s***. The entire experience has been an eye opener and I view life totally different now. Stay strong,” Tremaine added.
Sue battled Bell’s Palsy
Sue’s Bell’s Palsy
Sue Sheehan opened up in 2024 about how she had been diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy. Bell’s Palsy is a condition that causes temporary facial paralysis or weakness and usually affects one side of the face due to inflammation of the facial nerve.
This means that Sue struggled with being able to speak during this time. She joined the programme in 2019 with her husband Steve.
Sue explained: “I mean, I’ve had to relearn to do a couple of things since this Bell’s palsy. One is to speak through the side of my mouth, and the other one is chewing. Chewing takes a long time.”
Pete suddenly passed away
Pete’s sudden cancer death
Pete McGarry died from bowel cancer in 2021. He was one of the original stars as he joined Gogglebox in 2013 with wife Linda.
At the time, Linda said Pete was told he had six months to live but died just a few days later. Linda told The Sun: “Pete was a lovely man and I was so lucky to have him for 25 years. I said to him, ‘We’ve not only been 25 years, it’s been day and night with each other.’ He was my life.”
Mary Killen and Giles Wood have been on Gogglebox since 2015 and are fan favourites. However, Mary has a near death experience before her TV fame.
Speaking to The Guardian, Mary explained: “The closest I’ve come to death was contracting Legionnaires’ disease in 1999.”
She added: “I caught it from air conditioning in the Bahamas and developed something called Beau’s lines: white ridges across the fingernails which are a sign that your body’s shutting down for death.” She then said she’s never been quite the same since.
Jenny has dealt with Arthritis
Jenny’s painful condition
Jenny Newby and Lee Riley are arguably some of the favourites in Gogglebox history after first appearing in 2014. But it was in 2018 that Jenny spoke about struggling with arthritis.
Before an advert came on by charity Versus Arthritis, Jenny said: “I’ve got arthritis.” She explained: “I get more stressed now because I can’t fasten my coat. I can’t open a tin of beans and I’ve got to ask somebody. And that I think is the worst, when I have got to ask somebody because I feel like I am stupid.”
Jenny shared a press release afterwards when she said: “I’ve suffered with arthritis for a while now. I think something people don’t realise is the impact the condition has on simple everyday life. I really do think we should change that by being able to talk about it openly. It’s really important to me.”
Netflix have released an exclusive clip of Liam Hemsworth’s Geralt in The Witcher season 4, which is coming sooner than you think.
Netflix has shared a first look at Liam Hemsworth in The Witcher(Image: Netflix)
During the highly-anticipated Canelo vs Crawford boxing match on Saturday night, Netflix released a brand new exclusive clip from season 4 of their hit show, The Witcher.
Moreover, Netflix also revealed the release date for season 4, announcing it will launch on October 30, 2025.
Via a pre-recorded message for those watching the fight, the famous Hunger Games actor said: “Hey everyone, Liam Hemsworth here. I am excited to announce that Season 4 of The Witcher will be streaming on Netflix, October 30th. Here is a quick clip of me in action as Geralt of Rivia.”
Henry Cavill has been replaced in the Netflix show(Image: Netflix)
A chilling clip then played of Hemsworth as Geralt, channelling the same intensity and quiet strength that former Superman star Henry Cavill famously brought to the role.
Cavill played the character in the first three seasons of the Netflix series, but has been replaced by Hemsworth this coming season, reportedly leaving the series due to creative differences.
The official Netflix synopsis for The Witcher season 4 reads: “After the Continent-altering events of Season Three, Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri find themselves separated by a raging war and countless enemies.
“As their paths diverge, and their goals sharpen, they stumble on unexpected allies eager to join their journeys. And if they can accept these found families, they just might have a chance at reuniting for good…”
Liam Hemsworth is the new Geralt of Rivia(Image: Getty)
Get Netflix free with Sky
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Sky is giving away a free Netflix subscription with its new Sky Stream TV bundles, including the £15 Essential TV plan.
This lets members watch live and on-demand TV content without a satellite dish or aerial and includes hit shows like Stranger Things and The Last of Us.
The Witcher season 4, which comprises eight 50-minute episodes, has been created by Lauren Schmidt Hissrich, who also serves as Showrunner and Executive Producer.
Alongside Hemsworth, the cast includes Sherwood’s Anya Chalotra as Yennefer of Vengerberg, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes star Freya Allan as Princess Cirilla of Cintra, Whitechapel’s Joey Batey as Jaskier and The Matrix legend Laurence Fishburne as Regis.
Also joining the star-studded line-up are Hollyoaks actress Anna Shaffer, Doctor who’s Mimi M Khayisa, Bridgerton star Cassie Clare, Neighbours’ Mahesh Jadu, Meng’er Zhang from Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Outlander icon Graham McTavish.
The Witcher season 4 is coming to Netflix on October 30, 2025.
The Asian Champions League begins on Monday, elevated by a host of star names, including Cristiano Ronaldo.
Former English Premier League stars could make the difference in the Asian Champions League that begins Monday. Ivan Toney, Jesse Lingard, Riyad Mahrez and Darwin Nunez all have a chance of winning Asian football’s premier club tournament.
Saudi clubs dominated last season, providing three of the semifinalists before Al-Ahli won the final in front of 60,000 spectators at Jeddah in May. Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal are also back and expected to challenge again for the title.
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Since the country’s Public Investment Fund took over the leading clubs, including Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr, in 2023, Saudi Pro League clubs have spent about $1.5bn on players.
Toney signed for Al-Ahli from Brentford in August 2024 and would welcome more success in Asia.
“It was great to win the Champions League in front of our fans, and they are so passionate,” Toney told The Associated Press news agency.
The England striker scored six goals in last season’s continental tournament and has forged a fruitful relationship with Riyad Mahrez, who won the UEFA Champions League with Manchester City in 2021.
“If you get into the right positions in the area, then great players like Mahrez will find you,” Toney said. “The standard in Saudi Arabia is very high.”
There are 24 teams in the group stage, split into western and eastern zones in Asia, with the top eight from each progressing to a round of 16.
Riyadh’s Al-Hilal is the most successful club in the tournament’s history with four titles, and was the only Asian team to get out of the group stage at the Club World Cup in June, defeating Manchester City to reach the quarterfinals.
Al-Hilal has been bolstered by the $70m signing of Uruguayan striker Nunez from Liverpool.
Al-Ahli’s Roberto Firmino lifts the trophy as he celebrates with teammates after winning the Asian Champions League by beating Kawasaki Frontale in the 2024-2025 final [Reuters]
Coach Simone Inzaghi guided Inter Milan to the final of the UEFA Champions League and a 5-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain before quitting in June and moving to Al-Hilal.
The Italian coach will be hoping to go one better in Asia.
Two-time champion Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, is looking to Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante, who have won the European version, to do the same in Asia.
Former Manchester United and England star Lingard is flying the flag for FC Seoul. The South Korean league is the most successful in Asian club competitions with 12 titles overall, but has produced just one winner since 2016.
Lingard joined the K-League team in 2023 and, after a slow start, became club captain and a fan favourite.
“Now, we have to compete in the league as well as the AFC Champions League Elite,” Lingard said. “As captain, I will do my best to help the team achieve good results.”
Seoul FC coach Kim Ki-dong is giving the 32-year-old Lingard more responsibility.
“He has played for England and in the Premier League, but this will be his first AFC Champions League,” Kim said. “I know he’s really looking forward to this, and he’s working hard for it.”
Japanese clubs have offered most of the opposition to Saudi clubs recently. Kawasaki Frontale beat Al-Nassr in the semifinals in April but didn’t qualify this time.
J-League champion Vissel Kobe may present the strongest challenge, but of the 12 eastern teams, only South Korea’s Ulsan has been a previous champion.
There are plenty of Gogglebox stars who have lived heartbreaking health battles
Inside Gogglebox star’s health issues from cancer to ‘so close to death’ after infection(Image: Channel 4)
Numerous Gogglebox personalities have confronted devastating health challenges over the years.
Since the cherished long-running Channel 4 programme launched over 10 years ago in 2013, it has brought us countless memorable households across the nation.
From Giles Wood and Mary Killen in Wiltshire and the Siddiqui clan in Derby to best pals Jenny Newby and Lee Riley in Hull, the participants consistently delight audiences with their brilliant quips and amusing reactions to the week’s television gems.
Nevertheless, various of the show’s personalities are battling serious health conditions and have candidly shared their ordeals throughout the years. reports the Manchester Evening News.
Sue’s Bell’s Palsy revelation
Sue spoke about Bell’s Palsy on the show(Image: Channel 4)
Last year, Sue Sheehan disclosed that she was battling Bell’s Palsy, which has impacted her ability to communicate. The South London resident – who appeared on the programme in 2019 alongside husband Steve – discussed the condition during a Gogglebox episode.
“I mean, I’ve had to relearn to do a couple of things since this Bell’s palsy,” she explained. Sue continued: “One is to speak through the side of my mouth, and the other one is chewing. Chewing takes a long time.”
Steve responded: “I have offered to chew your food for you, but you declined.” Sue then shot back: “I’m not having that.” Steve added: “I’ve got to say, you haven’t lost the sharp side of your tongue though, have you?” She quipped: “No, it’s sharper than ever actually.”
Tremaine Plummer – who became part of Gogglebox in 2016 alongside his brothers – marked five years of being cancer-free following his battle with bowel cancer.
Sharing a hospital bed photograph on Instagram, he penned: “When I first saw this photo it made me feel sick and weak. I hated this photo for a long time. But now this photo is my medal. This was me 5 years ago. Post surgery for bowel cancer.
“One of the worst things that could have happened to me has turned into one of the best. Not everything bad that happens to you is the end. Out of some bad s*** comes good s***. The entire experience has been an eye opener and I view life totally different now. Stay strong.”
Jenny’s ‘awful’ condition
Jenny said her arthritis has had a huge impact on her(Image: C4)
Gogglebox star Jenny Newby became part of the programme in 2014 alongside best pal Lee Riley. Yet in 2018, Jenny disclosed she has been struggling with arthritis.
Prior to viewing an advertisement created by charity Versus Arthritis, Jenny disclosed her condition, stating: “I’ve got arthritis.”
She went on: “I get more stressed now because I can’t fasten my coat. I can’t open a tin of beans and I’ve got to ask somebody. And that I think is the worst, when I have got to ask somebody because I feel like I am stupid.”
In a statement following the advert, Jenny confessed: “I’ve suffered with arthritis for a while now. I think something people don’t realise is the impact the condition has on simple everyday life. I really do think we should change that by being able to talk about it openly. It’s really important to me.”
Pete’s tragic passing
Pete sadly died a few years ago(Image: Channel 4)
In 2021, Gogglebox star Pete McGarry tragically passed away from bowel cancer at the age of 71. He joined the show alongside his wife Linda in 2013.
Speaking about his death at the time, Linda revealed that Pete was told he had six months to live, but sadly died just days later, as reported by The Sun.
Linda told the publication: “Pete was a lovely man and I was so lucky to have him for 25 years. I said to him, ‘We’ve not only been 25 years, it’s been day and night with each other.’ He was my life.”
Mary’s brush with death
Mary contracted a deadly infection(Image: Channel 4)
Giles Wood and Mary Killen have been regulars on Gogglebox since 2015. However, years ago, Mary had a near-death experience.
In a chat with The Guardian, Mary disclosed: “The closest I’ve come to death was contracting Legionnaires’ disease in 1999.”
She went into detail about the terrifying experience, saying: “I caught it from air conditioning in the Bahamas and developed something called Beau’s lines: white ridges across the fingernails which are a sign that your body’s shutting down for death.”
Having survived the ordeal, she admitted: “It knocked the stuffing out of me. I’ve never been quite the same since.”
Strictly Come Dancing have released the first look images of the 2025 cast as the 15 celebrities prepare to take to the dance floor for the first live show in just two weeks time
Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly will return to hosting duties (Image: PA)
It’s almost time for the 2025 cast of Strictly Come Dancing to take to the dancefloor, as the BBC has released a first look picture of the cast in their glitzy ballroom outfits.
The cast certainly look the part – but will they be able to dance the part? Viewers will find out when the launch show airs next Saturday, with the live shows kicking off the week after.
The 15 new contestants, who will be joined alongside hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, dressed to the nines for their first looks, with pink being the colour of choice for most…
Strictly Come Dancing have released the first cast picture of 2025(Image: PA)
In the glitzy image, Love Island winner Dani Dyer wore a tassled pink number with a plunging V-neck to her waist, while ER actress Alex Kingston and model and actress Ellie Goldstein also joined in with the pink tassled theme.
They weren’t the only ones, as former England footballer Karen Carney wore a hot pink dress, with Olympian and Gladiator Harry Aikines-Aryeete opted for bright pink trousers.
Drag Race finalist La Voix stood out in a bright red number, with an eye-catching thigh slit. .
Vicky Pattinson and Balvinder Sopal stunned in bright colours, with the former Geordie Shore star wearing bright yellow, while the EastEnders star opted for a a turquoise dress.
Judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood and Anton Du Beke will return to the panel
Former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Emmerdale actor Lewis Cope matched in electric blue, with Cope showing off his arms with a sheer sleeveless top and tailored trousers.
Stefan Dennis, broadcaster Ross King and former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw stood out in patterned suits, whereas Thomas Skinner wore a pale blue suit.
The first look picture comes after a huge win for Strictly at the NTAs, picking up the National Television Award for Talent Show after the last scandal-filled 18 months.
Last year’s celebrity cast took to the stage to accept the award, with Pete Wicks and JB Gill giving a speech. The current cast were unfortunately able to attend the award ceremony as they were off filming the launch show which will air next Saturday.
“It gives me a little bit of PTSD that theme tune,” Pete said while accepting the award. “But look, Strictly is one of the best things that I have done and as much as us guys are the ones dancing, it’s all about the crew and the people who work behind it.”
JB Gill then went onto thank the judges as well as Chris McCausland and Diane Buswell who “made history” as last year’s winners. “Last but not least, thank you to all the viewers, all the people who voted for this incredible award. We absolutely love you.”
ENZO MARESCA has a wealth of talent at his disposal at Stamford Bridge, with three Cobham starlets already working their way towards first-team involvement.
After starring during the international break for England‘s youth teams, 16-year-old Ryan Kavuma-McQueen and 17-year-old Shim Mheuka are two attackers the Italian boss is keen to have available for selection going forward.
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Enzo Maresca beamed as he discussed Chelsea’s young talentCredit: Getty
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Shim Mheuka debuted for the Blues’ first team last seasonCredit: Getty
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Ryan Kavuma-McQueen was recently in stunning form on international dutyCredit: Getty
Mheuka, who made his Premier League and European debuts for the senior team last season, scored five goals in three games for the Young Lions, while winger Kavuma-McQueen made headlines with a four-goal haul against Germany‘s under-17s.
With Cole Palmer and Liam Delap both injured, there may be a spot for these youngsters sooner than anticipated, especially when the Blues travel to Lincoln in the Carabao Cup on 24th September, with Marc Guiu cup-tied for that game.
Maresca opened up in his Friday press conference on the impressive pair: “They are both in my plans, for sure. Shimmy was already with us and played some games for us last year. Ryan is more of a winger.
“I was watching when Ryan scored four goals against Germany, so I was very impressed, but I already knew him. One of my staff is always watching the youth team; they told me he was very good.
I’ve always said with young players, you have to be calm because they can change every day. For sure, though, he is one of the players we are looking at.”
Kavuma-McQueen is incredibly highly rated by those involved in the Chelsea youth system, and the Blues are keen for him not to become the next Rio Ngumoha, who joined Liverpool in pursuit of first-team opportunities he has now been granted.
That’s why, after fighting off interest from Liverpool and Barcelona for his signature, they will be thrilled that he is set to sign his first professional contract with the club when he turns 17 on New Year’s Day 2026.
While Maresca was left impressed by the two goal-scoring Brits at his disposal, he admitted he has a favourite when it comes to Blues’ youngsters.
Rio Ngumoha dramatically burst onto the scene against NewcastleCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
The Chelsea boss isn’t necessarily known for his enthusiasm in press conferences, but when asked about youngster Reggie Walsh, he was warmth personified with a smile plastered across his face.
Walsh, 16, has been training with the first team and was one of a record-breaking eight youngsters to be given a first team shot last season, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him get more chances this year with the Blues already facing injuries to some of their key midfielders.
Liam Delap ruled out for three months as Enzo Maresca gives major injury update on Chelsea striker
Maresca added: “I like all the academy guys, but Reggie is the one I like more than the rest, he’s my favourite.
“He’s very good, but because they are from the academy, we need to protect them.
“We already have the youngest squad in Premier League history, and last year we gave so many debuts to academy players. But Reggie is doing things that I demand of other players, and does them without me asking him to. That’s why I love Reggie.”
While Brentford may come too soon for the Cobham trio, they are all likely to feature when the Chelsea U21’s take on Ipswich next Saturday at Kingsmeadow.
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Reggie Walsh has hugely impressed MarescaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
The forthcoming drama follows an intimate affair that ‘threatens’ to tear a small community apart
A Heartstopper star is fronting a new British mystery thriller that’s worlds away from his Netflix role.
Joe Locke, who plays Charlie Spring in the teen show, stars in new Wales-based drama Black Church Bay.
Written and directed by newcomer Rhys Marc Jones, the thriller follows a teacher whose life spirals out of control following an intimate affair with a much-younger man.
An IMDb synopsis states: “In a remote Welsh coastal village, the disappearance of an openly-gay sixth form student disrupts the delicate balance of local life for one deputy head teacher, exposing long-buried secrets and threatening to tear the community apart.”
Locke stars in the forthcoming thriller (Image: Getty Images )
The film has now wrapped up filming in Anglesey, North Wales, according to Screen Daily.
Locke isn’t the only familiar face leading the thriller, he is joined by House of the Dragon star Julian Lewis Jones, and BAFTA winner Rakie Ayola.
Netflix fans will recognise the Welsh actress from the Jeff Goldblum-fronted comedy series Kaos.
According to Screen Daily, director Jones said: “I’m immensely grateful to my long-time creative partners, cinematographer Lasse Ulvedal Tolbøll and designer Paix Robinson as well as all the new relationships fostered over the last few months that helped me realise this ambitious script.”
“We’re excited to show audiences the exquisite Isle of Anglesey in a way it’s never been seen before,” added the writer-director.
Joe Locke and Kit Connor star in the forthcoming Heartstopper film (Image: Samuel Dore)
Locke made his acting debut in Heartstopper, in which he plays a teenage boy navigating everything from his sexuality to mental health struggles. He stars opposite Kit Connor, who portrays his on-screen love interest Nick Nelson.
The teen drama was adapted from Alice Oseman’s beloved graphic novels. It is set to come to an end in 2026, with the feature-length film titled Heartstopper Forever.
Looking forward to the end of this narrative, Oseman gave some insight into what viewers can expect.
She told Netflix: “I think this movie will explore what makes love survive, or what elevates it, or deepens it.
“At 18 and 17, Nick and Charlie are hurtling towards their adult lives. Many teenage relationships don’t survive that pivotal moment of change.”
New York City is famous for its thousands of bodegas across the city, and while they may not look like much from the outside, these small stores are hidden gems of the city.
NYC bodegas are hidden gems of the big Apple
When you arrive in New York City, sights such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building might be first on your bucket list.
But for me, drinking in the real city meant a trip to some of the city’s corner bodegas – a New York term for local convenience stores combined with delis that have become an integral part of the NY city furniture.
A small corner shop selling essentials might not sound overly interesting, but in many of New York’s neighbourhoods, the local bodega is a hub for the community. Bodegas are also silver screen stars. They have provided countless backdrops for New York-shot TV shows and films, including modern comedy classics Broad City and Master of None.
There is, I’d suggest, no better way to get under the skin of a new destination than by visiting its supermarkets and finding out how much space a given community devotes to crisps; if a nation is yet to discover the meal deal; and whether everything just smells a bit odd.
Bodegas are famous for their deli counters, often offering fresh sandwiches and subs
For the duration of my NYC trip, I stayed in Moxy Lower East Side, which is in the heart of Downtown. Luckily, Don Juan Grocery and Deli, one of the city’s better-known bodegas, was just a four-minute walk away.
I can say for certain that neither of them was like my local Tesco Express back home. When I stepped into the tiny store for a much-needed bottle of water away from the city’s summer heat, the Latin music was booming just like we had arrived at a cocktail bar.
A rustic lottery ticket station greeted me, with chocolate snacks locked up above the cashier rather than out on the shelves. Sat across two other wooden shelves was everything you would possibly need, not for a light lunch or Central Park picnic, but if a full-blown disaster struck. Even on the packed streets of New York, a spot of prepping is possible.
Don Juan Deli is one of the Lower East Side’s most famous bodega spots
I jumped for my life when a man popped out of a metal hatch from the ground. Happily, he meant no danger, but instead had just clambered down into the shop’s store room.
One thing that has put NYC bodegas on the map is their deli sections.
From pastrami to roast beef, Don Juan store had fresh meats, cheeses and fish on the menu in the corner of the store – where a small kitchen set up neighbours the till counter. Don Juan has created a name for itself in the area for their tasty sandwiches, burgers, and breakfasts, with its bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich garnering fame.
Spots such as Datz Deli in Queens over some mouthwatering menu items
Their food is so popular that many skip out on heading to cafes and restaurants in favour of grabbing a traditional sandwich from the deli. The store has even teamed up with food brands across the city to host pop-up food events during the summer, a side gig to the general running of Don Juan.
With around 13,000 bodegas across the city, what started as a local place for essential buys and quick eats are rising in popularity. Sky Deli, formerly Haji’s Deli, in Harlem, has achieved nationwide acclaim as the origin of the chopped cheese sandwich. Famed as one of the city’s best bites, the sandwich includes chopped ground beef, onions, American cheese, and lettuce on a long hero roll.
Queens spot Datz Deli is another of the city’s best-known bodegas. The store is known for its quirky menu, which includes pancakes with hot sauce. Having garnered 120,000 followers on Instagram, Datz is also home to the “macpatty,” which blends macaroni cheese with beef and oxtail in a burger. This dish has been featured on The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Bodegas are a place for the community to gather and stock up on essentials, with a welcoming atmosphere for locals
Sunny and Annie’s Deli in the East Village isn’t famous for its extravagant menu items but for its community feel. Open 24 hours a day, the store has become a staple in the neighbourhood for locals to catch up, grab some food, or just stock up on the essentials.
As TikTok rises, many influencers and food bloggers are testing out food in bodegas across the city for content, meaning what used to be a community spot for locals is now turning into foodie spots for tourists.
My advice is not to overlook a breakfast or lunchtime fix from a local bodega; while it may not look glamorous, it could be your new favourite spot.
GMB stars are fuming at being told they can no longer eat buttered toast in the mornings.
They were among ITV staff warned this week that toasters were banned in their new studios because of health and safety fears.
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Staff were told of the change in a meeting attended by presenter Susanna ReidCredit: rex features
In a meeting attended by presenter Susanna Reid — who has previously spoken of her love of peanut butter, apple and toast — staff were also warned they would have no canteen.
“Everyone knows breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
“But the new offices’ kitchen is in a basement with no windows or natural light, so smoke from a toaster is a serious health hazard.
“Those on the night shift who prepare the breakfast show are especially cross as they love their morning toast.
“And there is no canteen so everyone will have to start bringing in their Tupperware packed breakfasts.
“And whilst this seems like extreme cost-cutting, everyone was bamboozled to discover a yoga studio was being built on the roof. It’s all very bizarre.”
As part of an ITV cost-cutting overhaul, production on Lorraine, This Morning and Loose Women will move away from BBC Studioworks’ Television Centre from January.
GMB, meanwhile, is being relocated to ITN on Gray’s Inn Road.
Bosses have tried to ban the bread-browning machines before — but backed down after then-host Piers Morgan shamed them on air.
ITV Faces Major Shake-Up: Good Morning Britain Stars Under Threat Amid Cost Cuts
This article contains spoilers for the finale of Prime Video’s “The Girlfriend.”
After reading the pilot for “The Girlfriend,” Robin Wright could see how the entire series would unfold. She was initially approached to direct the first episode, but she was so entranced by the adaptation of Michelle Frances’ 2017 novel she came on board not just as a director, but as an executive producer.
And when it came to casting Laura, a fierce matriarch committed to protecting her son, Daniel, from his new girlfriend, everyone she pictured in the role was unavailable.
“My dream was Tilda Swinton,” Wright says, speaking from the Ham Yard Hotel in London alongside her co-star Olivia Cooke, whose Prime Video series premiered Wednesday. “The time crunch was getting narrower, so Jonathan Cavendish of Imaginarium [Productions] finally said, ‘Would you consider playing Laura? You know her so well.’ What interested me was expanding on each character and developing this show beyond the book, which was already very full and rich.”
Cooke was Wright’s first choice to play Cherry, Daniel’s working-class girlfriend, who may or may not have suspicious motives and a violent past. The actors hopped on a Zoom call at the end of 2023 and were immediately on the same page about the thriller series. Both were intrigued by the idea that each episode depicted the characters’ individual takes on the events, forcing viewers to frequently change their allegiance about who is right. Is Cherry deviously trying to push Laura aside for better access to Daniel, or is Laura paranoid and overbearing?
Laura (Robin Wright) is suspicious of Cherry and her motives. (Christopher Raphael / Prime)
“I was enticed by the dual perspectives and delving more into that reality because that is how we operate,” Wright says. “That is the human condition. You perceive [something] in a different way than I do. We’re all a hero of our own story and of our own perspective, but we could be the villain in someone else’s perspective. That’s what happens with Cherry and Laura. Jealousy turns into a power struggle.”
“It’s really fun to dial up the maliciousness and the duplicitous nature of a woman,” Cooke adds. “To play all these different sides and all these different faculties. And both our characters contain them all.”
“It was almost like having the variety pack of being a female,” Wright continues. “It’s easy for the viewer to go back and forth, where you’ll be in favor of this one and then not in favor. And it’s always rooted in true emotion. Wherever Laura or Cherry is coming from, that’s her truth. That’s her story.”
“You’ve always got to champion the characters you’re playing in order to play them honestly,” Cooke says. “I completely understood where Cherry was coming from. A lot of that is lack and fear and scarcity. Not having a parachute or a safety net, and having to constantly strive and move forward. She’s a survivor and she’s scrappy, and she will be the quickest and most ferocious to her own defense.”
The conflict between Laura and Cherry aggressively ratchets up over the course of six episodes. After a rock climbing accident that puts Daniel (Laurie Davidson) into a coma, Laura convinces Cherry that he’s died. Cherry later threatens Laura with a knife — or does she? Cooke says she loved “having the excuse to go f— feral.”
“What’s fun about Laura’s perspective is Cherry seems completely unhinged and that there’s a real malevolent undertone to her behavior,” Cooke says. “But in Cherry’s perspective, it’s all coming from a place of just scrambling. She’s tried to put her best foot forward when she meets Laura for the first time and she’s tried to cover up her past a little bit by saying the odd white lie. And a mum sniffs that out immediately.”
“What’s fun about Laura’s perspective is Cherry seems completely unhinged and that there’s a real malevolent undertone to her behavior,” Olivia Cooke says. “But in Cherry’s perspective, it’s all coming from a place of just scrambling.”
(Jennifer McCord / For The Times)
Cooke describes Cherry as an “underdog trying to claw herself up.” “I want the audience to really be of two minds about her,” she says. “And women usually have to be so buttoned up.
“It’s always, ‘You can’t say that or don’t emote that,’” Wright chimes in. “This gave us an opportunity to do what a lot of women would like to say or do, but they can’t. You always have to be a diplomat. This was about being a human being. Women are very layered individuals. We can do 16 things at once. That’s why we can carry children for nine months and then raise them. I wanted to show all of those colors of a woman.”
The role gave Cooke the chance to showcase her range and expressiveness.
“Even just for my own personal life, it felt really cathartic to be able to be angry and be able to scream and be a person who wears their emotions so closely to the surface,” Cooke adds. “Cherry is effervescent. It’s always there waiting to come out. She’s so reactive. And I’m hypervigilant for the warning signs before I react. This was like a rage room.”
In the tumultuous finale, Laura drugs Daniel to keep him away from Cherry. After Cherry breaks into Laura’s house, the duo find themselves in a physical altercation in the basement swimming pool. An addled Daniel discovers them fighting and jumps in to protect Cherry, accidentally holding his mother under the water for too long. The immediate interpretation is that Laura dies at the hand of her son, which is what the actors shot on set in London last year.
“There was an aerial shot of mom dead in his arms,” Wright says. “It was beautiful. He was holding her and he looks at Cherry and mom was dead in his arms in the way I had held him in Spain. But the [producers] cut it out because it showed that she had died.”
Laurie Davidson, who plays Daniel, and Robin Wright in a scene from “The Girlfriend.”
(Christopher Raphael / Prime)
The decision to have Daniel accidentally kill (or not kill) Laura resulted from a “big discussion,” as Wright puts it. The obvious conclusion was to have Cherry purposefully murder Laura, but Wright pushed against that.
“I said, ‘It needs to be the son that kills his mother because he will never get out of her clutches when she’s alive,’” Wright says. “He’s going to be in the middle of this war zone for the rest of his life. When he comes down [to the pool], he’s in a stupor. He’s almost hallucinating. When he dives in the pool and he sees [Laura] trying to drown his girlfriend, he doesn’t know what’s happened prior to that moment, which is she’s tried to kill mom. He has no sense of time and space because he’s under the influence.”
Cooke says she didn’t play the scene as Cherry wanting Laura to die. “Maybe people will read it as that, but I didn’t,” Cooke says. “She knows it’s gone too far. That’s what I played in the moment, shouting at Daniel to snap out of it. But, you know, she did get the house.”
Shooting the pool altercation was a challenging day. Much of the series was filmed in a private house in London’s St. John’s Wood neighborhood, which had an actual swimming pool in the basement. Although the pool was supposedly heated, the actors didn’t experience any warmth.
“It was f— hard,” Wright recalls. “For me, it was like waterboarding. People think, ‘Oh, my God, so much fun to act in those scenes.’ No, it’s not. It’s really tough. We were all drowned rats and freezing cold.”
Still, Cooke says it was enjoyable to go to such intense limits emotionally.
“It’s fun being able to go to the very edge of your emotional capacity in a very safe, fun, embracing environment,” she says. “We wouldn’t have been able to do that in the pool, and be able to try and murder each other and then laugh, if it wasn’t built on trust and love. … These characters do very heightened, crazy stuff, but it’s still seeped in honesty and naturalism, which you need in order to go on this journey.”
Robin Wright recalls how difficult shooting the pool scene was: “For me, it was like waterboarding.” Nevertheless, Olivia Cooke says it was “fun being able to go to the very edge of your emotional capacity.”(Jennifer McCord / For The Times)
At the end of the finale, Cherry and Daniel move into Laura’s mansion with the blessing of Daniel’s father, Howard (Waleed Zuaiter). Daniel discovers a voicemail from Laura recounting how Cherry’s mother, Tracey (Karen Henthorn), warned of her daughter’s malicious motives. But while Daniel is clearly in trouble, Wright says you’re not necessarily meant to interpret it as Laura being completely out of the picture.
“We wanted to leave it a little bit open,” she says. “You see the pregnant family living in the Sanderson house and mommy’s gone. Could Laura still be alive? Did she really die? Has she just been shunned to the priory?”
Wright says they wanted to leave it to the audience to decide what happened.
“But Daniel is awakened,” she adds. “If Laura is alive, he could go back to her and say, ‘I now believe you and now I’m with a crazy woman and afraid she’s going to kill me in my sleep.’ There are many iterations where it can go if there is a Season 2.”
As of this interview, no announcement has been made about another season. Cooke, who also stars as Alicent Hightower in “House of the Dragon,” says she would have to get permission from HBO to be part of a concurrent episodic series. Plus, as Wright notes, it’s all about the algorithm. “You always have to wait and see if it’s a semi-success,” Wright says. She adds, turning to Cooke, “If there is a Season 2, I think you should kill the cat in Episode 1, gut it and wear it as a hat.”
For Wright, that’s part of the appeal of being an executive producer — she could brainstorm all the unhinged things that could happen between the characters. She loved coming up with story ideas and character backgrounds, and helping to sculpt the ending, which differs from the novel, was pure joy.
“This was my first opportunity to develop something from the ground up,” says Robin Wright, who executive produces and is a director on the series. “I took a bunch of personal stories, things that I’ve heard, and threw them in there.”
(Jennifer McCord / For The Times)
“This was my first opportunity to develop something from the ground up,” Wright says. “I took a bunch of personal stories, things that I’ve heard, and threw them in there. Like Laura kissing her son on the lips — that came from a friend of mine. And Laura spraying Cherry with her perfume in a shop and saying, ‘Daniel loves this,’ came from someone on set. Things were constantly percolating.”
Wright directed the first three episodes, setting the visual and thematic tone for the series, while Andrea Harkin took on the latter three. The actor says there was a real freedom on set, which was helped by the rehearsals the cast was able to do before filming. She made it a point to always give the actors their own take for each scene.
“Generally, I’d use the take where they went for a free-for-all,” she says. “You get locked in a box as actors. We all do. You pick a choice and you stick with that choice. But when you throw that out the window, the s— that comes out of actors is amazing. That’s what’s so beautiful about being able to direct and being an actor myself. I love watching how it evolves and the light that comes out of them and the emotion that’s brought to the surface.”
“I’ve never acted opposite my director before,” Cooke adds. “The chain of command was so short. Robin was acting with me, but also watching to see what I do and changing her performance to my reaction, which was amazing. It makes it very alive and kinetic.”
Ultimately, it’s up to the viewer to decide whether Laura or Cherry is the villain of “The Girlfriend.” And, as Wright says, it’s simply a matter of how you see things.
“You as the viewer get to decide: Is there a truth, or is it just subjective?” she says. “Because it is subjective for each of our perspectives and we own it. It happened the way you personally know it happened. But the truth lies somewhere in between.”
