stars

Former Premier League star’s son destroys Sir Mo Farah record that stood for 14 years after making his own way in sport

GEORGE MILLS is eyeing up a gold rush after demolishing Sir Mo Farah’s British men’s 5000 metres record in Oslo last night.

The 26-year-old, son of ex-England full-back Danny, clocked 12:46.59 at the Bislett Games to slash over six seconds off the four-time Olympic champ’s mark from Monaco in 2011.

George Mills of Great Britain competing in the men's 5000-meter final at the Diamond League.

1

George Mills demolished Sir Mo Farah’s British men’s 5000 metres recordCredit: Shutterstock Editorial

It left the Yorkshireman fourth as the USA’s Nico Young led home a mass charge.

But after landing two Euro silvers in 12 months, Mills wants some big nights that match Mo’s moments of magic.

He said: “That record was one of the things I came here for and it’s nice to be able to do it.

“I like to run brave. I like to assert myself on races. So that’s what I was able to do.

“Now I want medals at worlds and Olympic Games. That’s what I have to do. That’s what I’m aiming for now.”

Mills competed at the Olympics Games in Paris last summer – with his race was overshadowed by controversy.

In a chaotic 5000m heat, the Team GB ace was one of four runners that fell over on the home straight.

It led to a confrontation after the finish line as George pushed France’s Hugo Hay and appeared to tell him to “f*** off.”

CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS

Elsewhere Norway’s Karsten Warholm set a 300m hurdles world record of 32.67 seconds.

Dina Asher-Smith lost out to Paris Olympic gold medallist Julien Alfred in coming third in the women’s 100m.

While world indoor champion Amber Anning was third over 400m.

Ex-Premier League star’s son in furious bust-up with rival after four athletes fall in chaotic Olympics 2024 5000m

Source link

Love Island announcement seconds into episode leaves stars reeling as fans guess twist

There was some big news at the start of Love Island on Thursday night that sparked quite the reaction from the cast members in a preview, as fans guessed a big twist

There was some big news at the start of Love Island on Thursday night
There was some big news at the start of Love Island on Thursday night(Image: ITV2)

There was an announcement previewed in a clip at the very start of Love Island on Thursday night that promised drama ahead.

One Islander screamed out as she confirmed some worrying news. The other Islanders were all left reeling as they heard the news, shown looking shocked and panicked.

As the episode kicked off, a preview clip for that episode confirmed a recoupling was on the cards. One star shouted out: ‘I’ve got a text! Tonight there will be a recoupling,” adding the girls would get to choose.

As the camera panned across the villa, all of the Islanders shouted out and were openmouthed. Clearly not anticipating another recoupling so soon, it’s clear some of them not yet in a strong couple were worried.

Meanwhile fans were left reacting online, believing it meant a dumping was coming. With spoilers teasing that around the recoupling there’s a shocking text message set to rock the villa, fans guessed a new twist was on the cards.

Fans wondered if the result of the recoupling could lead to the next dumping of the series. With there being two more boys than girls, could a double exit be on the way?

READ MORE: Love Island LIVE: Bombshell recoupling tears up the villa before star is dumped

Love Island teased some big news coming up in the episode
Love Island teased some big news coming up in the episode (Image: ITV)

Taking to X one fan said: “Which boy do you think will get dumped tonight?” as if it had been confirmed. Another agreed: “I really hope Ben is dumped tonight,” as a third said: “Harry you are getting dumped.”

It comes amid reports that a male Islander has in fact been dumped from the villa. Viewers will have to tune in to find out what happens and who leaves.

Earlier this week, viewers predicted which former Love Island star could be set to enter the famous second villa, Casa Amor later this series. After Sophie Lee was axed from the show on Tuesday night in a brutal dumping, after her partner Harry was stolen by Shakira, fans were quick to predict she might be back very soon.

There was news of a recoupling
There was news of a recoupling(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)

Taking to X, fans guessed the twist would happen with one fan writing: “I reckon Sophie will re-enter the villa as a bombshell by the end of next week at the latest or she will re-enter in Casa Amor.” Another said: “Dw Sophie you’ll be back in 4 weeks for Casa Amor.”

A third viewer begged: “Nah bring Sophie back for Casa Amor she deserves a chance.” A fourth fan agreed: “Bring her back for casa amor!!” as a fifth viewer posted: “Gutted for her and bring back Sophie as a bombshell or Casa Amor.”

The comments kept on coming with one reading: “They better bring Sophie back as a Casa bombshell. Justice for Sophie.” Another said: “BRING SOPHIE BACK FOR CASA AMOR!”

Love Island 2025 airs every night at 9PM on ITV2 and ITVX. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .



Source link

Barbara Kruger mural ‘Questions’ stars in L.A. ICE protests

As protesters swarmed downtown Los Angeles to denounce ICE raids in their communities and the deployment of the National Guard, a potent image kept flashing across television screens and social media: officers in riot gear facing off against flag- and sign-waving demonstrators in front of a strikingly resonant, red mural posing a series of queries interrogating the very nature of power and control.

Barbara Kruger’s 30-by-191-foot “Questions” takes up the entire side wall of the Museum of Contemporary Art’s Geffen Contemporary warehouse building, facing Temple Street and — notably — the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building. Like many of Kruger’s most iconic images, including her famous 1989 abortion rights poster, “Your Body Is a Battleground,” the mural features words in starkly clear graphic design — in this case, white letters on a red background asking nine now-prophetic questions:

“Who is beyond the law? Who is bought and sold? Who is free to choose? Who does the time? Who follows orders? Who salutes longest? Who prays loudest? Who dies first? Who laughs last?”

The mural was commissioned in 1990 by former MOCA curator Ann Goldstein, who is now at the the Art Institute of Chicago.

Former MOCA Chief Curator Paul Schimmel posted a TV screenshot of protesters in front of the mural on Sunday with the caption, “#Barbara Krugers #moca mural doing its art job as the riots against #ice consume LA.”

Reached for comment Monday, Schimmel added that Kruger “understood the importance and power of a mural facing the then-new Federal Building. Multiple generations of MOCA staff have brought it back to life because of its profundity.”

Kruger, a longtime L.A. resident, responded Monday to The Times’ request for comment about the mural’s immersion in this fraught moment of city history, writing via email: “This provocation is giving Trump what he wants: the moment he can declare martial law. As if that’s not already in play.”

In a YouTube video posted to MOCA’s website when the museum reinstalled the mural in 2018, Kruger says: “There was a very visible wall on the side of this building, and it was an opportunity to make a statement about pride and prominence and power and control and fear. The questions were always the important part of the work.”

At another point in the video, she adds: “One would hope that in the 30 years since, things would have changed a bit. And things have changed. For the good and for the bad, and for everything in between.”

Images of “Questions” abound on social media, including on X, where a few users recognized the significance of the art behind the protesters. Misinformation has been rampant on social media, and one post showed a photo of a masked individual creeping below the mural with the claim that the person “broke into the MOCA Museum and destroyed everything.”

A MOCA representative debunked that claim Monday, saying that the museum closed early, at about 1:30 p.m. Sunday, “out of an abundance of caution and for the safety and well-being of our staff and visitors,” and that it expected to open again, per its normal operating hours, on Thursday. The museum is always closed Monday through Wednesday.

The only damage to the Geffen Contemporary was some graffiti that the museum said could be removed.

 Big white words on a red wall.

Cleanup continues after a night of protests in downtown Los Angeles on June 9, 2025.

(Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press)

Adding a hyper-meta art moment, MOCA’s current durational performance, “Police State” by Pussy Riot frontwoman Nadya Tolokonnikova, continued until 6 p.m. inside the building, just without its usual live audience. The performance consists of Tolokonnikova sitting at a bare wooden table inside of a corrugated steel structure resembling a Russian prison cell.

Tolokonnikova, who spent two years in a Russian prison following a performance in Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, spent those hours Sunday broadcasting live audio of the protests outside mixed with her own heartbeat to the empty museum.

“Police State Exhibit Is Closed Due To The Police State,” she wrote in a post on X.

“Durational performance is a scary thing to step into: once you said you’re going to show up, you can’t just leave simply because of the National Guard had a whim to occupy the city, so my choice was to stay and continue doing my job as an artist,” she said in a statement.

Source link

Commentary: Dodgers have lots of stars. Why Zach Neto should be Angels’ lone All-Star

The fans packed Angel Stadium last week, erupting when the star emerged from the dugout during pregame warmups, chanting “M-V-P” in his honor during the game.

Aaron Judge and the New York Yankees had arrived in Anaheim, and the old ballpark was abuzz.

“Anywhere we play,” Judge said, “it’s a playoff atmosphere.”

Angels fans haven’t seen a playoff game in 11 years, so there were plenty of good seats available for Yankees fans. In the top of the first inning, Judge grounded out.

In the bottom of the first, the Angels’ star strutted into the spotlight. Zach Neto led off the inning by launching a 440-foot home run — the longest of his career — and flipping his bat so dramatically that Major League Baseball celebrated on social media.

The Angels lost the game, but their shortstop rose to the occasion in a way his team so often has not. We would say Neto is a star in the making, with pop in his bat and swagger in his game, but he already is a star.

An All-Star.

“One hundred percent. For sure. No doubt,” said Angels closer Kenley Jansen, himself a four-time All-Star.

Baseball turns its All-Star ballot live Wednesday, and there is no shortage of Dodgers players worthy of votes. If Judge does not get the most votes overall, Shohei Ohtani should.

Freddie Freeman entered play Tuesday batting .368, and he leads National League first basemen in WAR. Will Smith is batting .331 and leads NL catchers in WAR. Shortstop Mookie Betts and outfielder Teoscar Hernández figure to attract some votes, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto should be one of the pitchers selected.

The Dodgers had six All-Stars last year. The Angels had one: pitcher Tyler Anderson.

This year, Neto ought to be that guy. His 10 home runs lead American League shortstops. Among all major leaguers, only Ohtani has more leadoff homers than Neto.

“It’s a no-brainer he is our All-Star this year,” Jansen said.

Angels shortstop Zach Neto, right, high-fives a fan, left before a game against the Marlins at Angel Stadium in May.

Angels shortstop Zach Neto high-fives a fan before a game against the Marlins at Angel Stadium in May 24.

(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Neto is one of seven major leaguers with 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases in their last 162 games. The others: Ohtani, Ronald Acuña Jr., Corbin Carroll, Francisco Lindor, José Ramírez and Kyle Tucker.

Lindor is the only other shortstop in the group. That makes Neto a star in a rather bright constellation.

“He’s a superstar in the making,” Jansen said.

Neto almost certainly would need to be voted in by his peers, or selected by the league office. Even his manager admits Neto has virtually no chance to be voted in by the fans.

Angels manager Ron Washington said Neto is “definitely” an All-Star but suggested Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals, the runner-up to Judge as AL most valuable player last season, would be voted the starting shortstop.

“I think he is going to be the guy,” Washington said.

And Neto?

“They need some backup,” Washington said. “It doesn’t matter if you make the All-Star team as a backup. You made the All-Star team.

“I think he’s got the opportunity to do just that.”

Angels shortstop Zach Neto gives the safe sign as he slides on his belly across home plate ahead of the tag.

Angels shortstop Zach Neto gives the safe sign as he slides on his belly across home plate ahead of the tag during a game against the Giants in April.

(Wally Skalij / Associated Press)

Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles started at shortstop for the AL last season. Jeremy Peña of the Houston Astros has a better WAR than anyone in the AL except Judge, according to Baseball Reference. Jacob Wilson of the Athletics has a better OPS than Witt, and he is batting .355 — better than anyone in the majors besides Judge and Freeman.

“With all the shortstops out there, he is just going to have to bide his time,” Washington said of Neto. “Hopefully, he gets chosen.”

The fans select the starters, and the players in the AL and NL select the backups in their respective leagues. If the fans vote Witt, do enough AL players appreciate Neto’s game?

“Yeah,” Washington said, laughing, “because he bust their [butt].”

Said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts: “Love him. Certainly, his skill set plays. And, for him to be — what, a couple years removed from college? — I just love that he just has that feel for leadership. He’s already a leader. I can see it from the other side.

“He’s sort of like that old-school gritty ballplayer. He can beat you a lot of ways. He’s quickly going higher on the list of players I love to watch.”

The league office completes the All-Star rosters, in large part to ensure each team has at least one representative. It is not a given that Neto would be the Angels’ representative.

If two or three other shortstops are chosen, the league office could opt for catcher Logan O’Hoppe or, if position players are fully stocked, pitcher Yusei Kikuchi. If Mike Trout stays healthy and gets hot, the league office could give fans across America the Angels player they would most want to see.

Yet there is no question that Neto is the Angels’ best player this year, and a star for years to come.

“This guy,” Roberts said, “is going to be an All-Star for a long time.”

That time should start now.

Source link

Coronation Street fans spot star’s ‘fuming’ face as soap misses out on Best Episode award

Coronation Street fans spotted one star’s fuming face as the ITV soap lost out in the Best Episode category at the British Soap Awards this evening

Coronation Street fans spotted Mason star Luca's fuming face
Coronation Street fans spotted Mason star Luca’s fuming face(Image: ITV)

Coronation Street star Luca Toolan appeared ‘fuming’ as the ITV soap lost out in the Best Single Episode award category at the British Soap Awards tonight. Luca played Mason Radcliffe on the soap before his character was killed off.

Mason died in tragic scenes, where he was stabbed by his brother as the soap tried to raise awareness of knife crime. In the harrowing scenes, which aired earlier this year, Mason lost his life in a fight with his siblings.

Speaking at the time of his exit storyline, he said: “Of course when I first heard there was a mixture of emotions because I was sad that Mason was going to die and that means I would be leaving, but equally I was really excited and honoured to be part of this storyline because it’s an incredibly important issue that needs to be tackled. I feel so privileged to have had this opportunity to start my professional career at Coronation Street and what a great time I’ve had.”

He added: “It was exhausting to film but amazing. I was so focused and a storyline like this is what you crave as an actor. I love the long days and working my butt off and even filming outside in the cold.

Luca died in heartbreaking scenes
Luca died in heartbreaking scenes(Image: ITV)

“Every single day I would wake up and be absolutely buzzing to go to work. The full crew were so supportive and created an environment that you could put yourself in that emotional headspace and get on with it. It was an amazing experience.”

The Best Single Episode award went to EastEnders for the episode about Phil’s Psychosis: The Mitchells In 1985. Other episodes nominated in that award included Mason’s Death, April’s Life on the Streets and Hollyoaks‘ Time Jump.

Fans on Twitter noticed Luca’s face, with one writing: “All of the other nominees when they don’t get the award…#britishsoapawards,” as another added: “they always look so p***ed off when they don’t win.” The fan then replied: “Mason from Corrie looked p***** off.”

EastEnders went on to win
EastEnders went on to win(Image: ITV)

Mason star Luca also took to social media to comment on the disrupted opening, where he wrote a sarcastic message which read: “Oh no what a shame now nobody can see me and all of Corrie win all the awards.”

Mason’s final storyline was also nominated in the Scene of the Year award alongside EastEnders at 40: Angie Watts’ Shock Return, Amy’s Deathly Plunge Reveals a Grisly Secret in Emmerdale and Mercedes Confronts Her Mortality in Hollyoaks. The award eventually went to EastEnders for the surprise return of Angie Watts.

Speaking about his future, Luca said he has big plans for what lies ahead. I love acting so much and I really hope I’ll continue doing it. I’ve seriously learned so much from Corrie and I’m so grateful to everyone involved there. As for my future, I’m not sure what it holds but the saying I like to say is: ‘I’m aiming for the stars and if I miss, I’ll hit the moon.'”

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



Source link

Emmerdale legend admits axe fears as stars tease more twists ahead

Emmerdale favourites James Hooton and Karen Blick, who play Sam and Lydia Dingle on the ITV soap, told The Mirror their hopes for future plots amid recent exits

One Emmerdale favourite confessed his fears about being axed from the ITV soap
One Emmerdale favourite confessed his fears about being axed from the ITV soap(Image: ITV)

One Emmerdale favourite confessed his fears about being axed from the ITV soap after more than two decades in the role.

The star confessed he hoped to stay on the show for years to come, grateful for his job in the Dales. Sam Dingle actor James Hooton admitted his only hope for the coming weeks and months is to “not be axed”, with his co-star Karen Blick adding she too hoped to go nowhere.

Speaking exclusively to The Mirror at the British Soap Awards 2025, James and co-star Karen teased what was ahead and spoke about the soap’s big twists. They also gave us their verdict on the big Nate Robinson murder twist, killer John and the return of Robert Sugden.

But with characters having left the show in recent months, with some cast members axed and others quitting the soap, the Lydia and Sam stars revealed they were going nowhere if it’s their choice. They told us how they hoped to stay in their roles and “not be axed”, following departures including Leyla Harding, Suzy Merton, Amy Wyatt, Amelia Spencer and Nate.

We asked James what he was hoping for coming up on the show, to which he replied: “To not get axed!” Karen then added: “That we are still there, that’ll be lovely.

READ MORE: Emmerdale Robert Sugden and Ross Barton twist could spark another return

Emmerdale favourites James Hooton and Karen Blick, who play Sam and Lydia Dingle on the ITV soap
Emmerdale favourites James Hooton and Karen Blick, who play Sam and Lydia Dingle on the ITV soap(Image: Mike Marsland/WireImage)

“It’s a great job. I love working together [with James], it’s an absolute joy to be in the Dingles, it’s a great family. There’s no joy better than being in The Woolpack with all the Dingles or being in the village on a lovely sunny day. It’s joyous.”

James added: “Even in the winter, you still have a good laugh.” Karen responded: “It’s a joy of a job.” Karen is also hoping for more scenes between Lydia and Kim Tate, after they created a friendship onscreen and offscreen.

She said: “I love them together, and I love working with Claire King. She’s fantastic and I’ve learned so much from her. We have a cup of tea and we put the world to rights. She’s a soap icon and it’s a pleasure to work with her.”

With there being so many soap twists recently, from murder and returns to exits and storyline bombshells, the pair hinted to us that there could be more big moments on the way. Karen said: “There is always a twist, there’s always something which is what keeps you guessing.

James and co-star Karen teased what was ahead and spoke about the soap's big twists
James and co-star Karen teased what was ahead and spoke about the soap’s big twists(Image: ITV)

“It keeps you viewing because you want to know what’s round the corner and what’s the next thing. The crossover sounds so exciting, I’d love to be involved. Me and James said that.”

James shared of his hopes: “Sam and Lydia in Roy’s Rolls,” to which Karen said: “I’d love that, and maybe a scene with Mary. Lydia and Mary having a lovely conversation.” James went on: “Wouldn’t it be nice but we have no power, so can you make it happen?”

We also discussed Robert’s return and the possible Robron reunion, with Karen referencing John Sugden being married to Aaron Dingle and saying: “It’s tricky, it’s not straightforward.”

As for Nate’s killer, the pair joked it could be an animal behind it just like when rapist Craig was murdered by a horse, Ice. Karen said: “Maybe a horse did it, or a cow,” with James joking: “What if it was a stray wombat over from Australia.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .



Source link

‘I remember him as he was – not lying in a bed’: Michael Schumacher’s F1 boss gives tragic insight into star’s health

MICHAEL Schumacher’s former boss has given rare insight into the F1 legend’s condition – 12 years after the skiing accident that changed his life.

While the German seven-time world champion, now 56, hasn’t been seen in public since 2013, his Benetton manager says he speaks often with Schumacher’s family.

Michael Schumacher and Flavio Briatore holding Formula 1 World Championship awards.

5

Flavio Briatore (right) has revealed insight into the health of F1 icon Michael Schumacher (left)Credit: Press Association
Michael Schumacher, the first German Formula 1 world champion, being celebrated by his team.

5

Schumacher pictured on the shoulders of Briatore and race director Tom Walkinshaw after his 1994 World Championship victory has not been seen since 2013Credit: Alamy
Michael Schumacher and his wife Corinna skiing in the mountains.

5

His wife Corinna gave an update on his health in a rare 2021 documentaryCredit: Alamy

Flavio Briatore, 75, led the Benetton F1 team during Schumacher’s breakthrough years, playing a key role in his first two world championships.

Briatore appeared to confirm to an Italian newspaper that Schumacher is bed-bound, amid scarce details of his condition due to the family’s commitment to privacy.

“If I close my eyes,” he told Corriere della Sera, “I see him smiling after a victory.

“I prefer to remember him like that rather than him just lying on a bed. Corinna and I talk often, though.”

Briatore’s update follows a claim by his ex-wife Elisabetta Gregoraci, who said: “Michael doesn’t speak, he communicates with his eyes.

“Only three people can visit him and I know who they are.”

Claims that Schumacher can no longer speak were echoed by his son Mick in a 2021 Netflix documentary about his father’s life.

The 26-year-old driver said: “I think dad and me, we would understand each other now in a different way now.”

In the 2021 documentary, Corinna gave a rare update, revealing Schumacher is still undergoing rehabilitation and is “different, but here” following his life-changing injuries.

In April, Schumacher signed a charity helmet with help from Corinna.

What do we know about Schumacher since his accident?

MICHAEL Schumacher’s life changed forever on December 29, 2013, when a skiing accident left the seven-time F1 champion with a severe brain injury.

Since then, his family has protected his privacy, with only a select few remaining in contact with the racing legend.

December 29, 2013 – The skiing accident: Schumacher suffers a life-threatening head injury while skiing off-piste in Méribel, France. He falls and hits his head on a rock, causing severe brain trauma despite wearing a helmet. He is airlifted to a hospital in Grenoble, where he undergoes two emergency surgeries. Doctors place him in a medically induced coma to reduce swelling in his brain.

January 2014 – Schumacher fights for his life: Schumacher remains in a coma. Doctors describe his condition as “critical but stable”. His family, led by wife Corinna, remains at his bedside. The world’s F1 community rallies behind him, with fans holding vigils outside the hospital.

June 2014 – Schumacher brought out of his coma: After nearly six months, Schumacher is brought out of his coma. His family confirms he is no longer in a coma but gives no further health details. He is transferred from Grenoble to a rehabilitation facility in Lausanne, Switzerland.

September 2014 – Back home: Schumacher is moved to his family home near Lake Geneva. Corinna announces he will continue his recovery at home, with a dedicated medical team.

2015–2018 – Mystery surrounding his health: Reports suggest Schumacher is receiving round-the-clock medical care at home, costing £50,000 per week. Jean Todt reveals he still visits Schumacher and that they watch F1 races together.

May 2017 – German magazine sued by Schumacher’s family: The magazine Bunte has to pay Michael Schumacher €50,000 (£42,000) in damages after claiming in 2015 that Schumacher would walk again. The Hamburg regional court determined that the statement was false and infringed upon Schumacher’s right to privacy.

September 2019 – Schumacher secretly transferred to Paris: French media reports that Schumacher is taken to Paris for stem cell therapy at the Georges-Pompidou Hospital. The procedure is led by renowned surgeon Dr. Philippe Menasché. Details of the treatment remain undisclosed.

December 2019 – Manager issues rare statement: Schumacher’s longtime manager Sabine Kehm says his condition will remain private. She dismisses speculation and false reports about his health.

September 2021 – Netflix documentary “Schumacher” released: A new Netflix documentary, Schumacher, provides rare insights into his life. Corinna speaks publicly about his condition for the first time, saying: “Michael is here. Different, but he’s here, and that gives us strength.”

December 2023 – 10 years since the accident: Schumacher turns 55. The anniversary of his accident is marked by tributes from the F1 world. Jean Todt confirms he still sees Schumacher regularly and describes his visits as “full of affection”.

September 2024 – Daughter Gina’s wedding: Gina Schumacher, 27, marries longtime boyfriend Iain Bethke at the family’s £27million Majorca villa. Reports claim Schumacher attends the wedding, but close friend Johnny Herbert later calls it “A1 fake news”. Guests are reportedly required to hand over their phones to prevent leaks.

December 2024 – Schumacher to become a grandfather: Gina announces she is pregnant, three months after her wedding. She shares the news on Instagram, writing: “Impatiently awaiting the arrival of our little girl.”

Signed racing helmet on a blue race car.

5

Schumacher’s initials ‘M.S’ can be seen signed on the bottom part of the helmet belonging to fellow F1 icon Sir Jackie StewartCredit: Matt Wardle and Bell Racing
Emotional moment Michael Schumacher’s son and Sebastian Vettel pay tribute to stricken F1 legend

The helmet will be auctioned to raise money for Stewart’s charity Race Against Dementia.

Johnny Herbert, Schumacher’s teammate at Benetton between 1994 to 1995, described the signature as an “emotional” moment.

He told FastSlots: “It’s wonderful news that Michael Schumacher signed Jackie Stewart‘s helmet. It was a wonderful moment.

“We haven’t seen something emotional like this in years, and hopefully, it’s a sign. 

“Hopefully, Michael is on the mend. It’s been a long, horrible journey for the family, and maybe we’ll hopefully see him in the F1 paddock soon.”

Schumacher is one of the most successful F1 drivers of all time, winning world titles in 1994, 1995 and five consecutive years from 2000 to 2004.

He also racked up 71 fastest laps and 155 podiums during his racing career.

When asked who the greatest driver of all time is, Briatore told Corriere de Sera: “I don’t know who the greatest is, because we’ve had Schumacher, Senna, Alonso.

“Now, the number one is definitely (Max) Verstappen. I have two cars at Alpine, so I would like to have two Verstappens.”

Michael Schumacher kissing his former team manager Flavio Briatore.

5

Schumacher kisses Briatore in 2000Credit: Reuters

Source link

EastEnders line up shock return for Elaine – a year after star’s dramatic soap exit

EASTENDERS actor Paul Clayton is set to return to the soap after more than a year as he reprises the role of Drew Peacock.

Drew was revealed as the ex lover of the husband of Queen Vic landlady Elaine Peacock (Harriet Thorpe).

Scene from EastEnders episode 7134, featuring Drew and Elaine Knight in a bar.

4

Actor Paul Clayton is returning as Drew – and it spells heartbreak for ElaineCredit: BBC
Photo of a man and woman standing outside at night.

4

Harriet Thorpe who plays Elaine on EastEnders, with fellow actor Paul ClaytonCredit: Instagram / hatdorable
Man in suit standing by Albert Square street sign.

4

Junior Knight also returns to stir up trouble between Elaine and GeorgeCredit: BBC

The character made their debut last year when they arrived as the drag artist hired by the Carter’s to perform at Elaine’s hen-do.

Things soon took a dramatic turn when Elaine recognised him and ordered him to leave.

The landlady was then forced to reveal to her daughter Linda (Kellie Bright) that Drew was the mystery person that her father had an affair with all those years ago.

And while Elaine and Drew managed to talk things over and put the past behind them it looks as though more drama is on the way as Drew makes a shock return in upcoming episodes. 

The character is featured on the cast list for next week’s episodes meaning that his return isn’t far away.

The guide hints that it is a huge week for the character of Elaine as she makes a shock discovery before making a decision about her marriage to George Knight (Colin Salmon).

She starts to suspect husband George is cheating on her.

Things go from bad to worse when Junior Knight turns up and reveals George kissed his mum Sabrina on Christmas day.

It’s another blow to their marriage after the drama with Cindy Beale, after George helped her relaunch The Albert.

Actor Paul, who played Sophie’s dad in Peep Show, sparked rumours of a potential return after posing for a photo with Harriet, shared to the actress’s Instagram, back in March. 

Watch the moment EastEnders’ George Knight calls off wedding to Elaine Peacock after deceit is exposed

Elaine hasn’t had an easy time since arriving in Walford.

The character permanently moved to Walford with George in 2023, taking over the iconic Queen Vic pub with her daughter Linda Carter.

She recently discovered Cindy’s shock affair with her stepson Junior.

The pub at the heart of Albert Square then suffered a devastating explosion that rocked Walford.

The Knight family were forced to move out until renovations were complete after they received the good news that the insurance would be paying out.

Now it seems the pub could be changing hands – after EastEnders accidentally leaked a massive spoiler.

Elaine Peacock and George Knight in a pub scene.

4

Is the Queen Vic getting new landlords?Credit: BBC

Source link

Benidorm star’s iconic outfit sells for hundreds after tragic death

Bobby Knutt’s jumper went under the hammer for a good cause years after the the actor died in 2017

Darren Litten with the clothes that were being auctioned
A colourful pullover late Benidorm star Bobby Knutt wore on the ITV show sold for £487 at auction(Image: Jam Press/Derren Litten)

A colourful jumper worn by late Benidorm star Bobby Knutt has sold for nearly £500 at auction eight years after the actor’s sudden death. The pullover, which featured in the hit ITV sitcom, fetched £487 as part of a special costume auction organised by Benidorm creator Derren Litten.

The sale saw several fan-favourite pieces from the show go under the hammer, with proceeds going towards medical treatment for a close friend of Litten’s. Bobby Knutt starred as cheeky pensioner Eddie Dawson between series eight and ten of the popular comedy, which aired from 2007 to 2018. Benidorm became a cult favourite with British audiences thanks to its outrageous humour and funny depictions of holiday chaos at the fictional Solana resort.

The colourful pullover that was sold
A colourful pullover late Benidorm star Bobby Knutt wore on the ITV show sold for £487 at auction(Image: Jam Press/Derren Litten)

Fans also snapped up other memorabilia from the show, including the Solana hotel-branded staff tabard, which sold for £422. A darts shirt worn by Johnny Vegas as Geoff ‘The Oracle’ Maltby sparked a bidding frenzy, reaching over £1,000 before being withdrawn.

Darren explained: “Sadly it was withdrawn as someone was bidding and retracting bids 30 or 40 times a day which, although I don’t understand eBay, is a method of bumping other bidders off the auction item. I will have to find another method of auctioning it. The vast majority sold to very happy buyers.”

The auction, which ran from May 25 to June 2, was set up to raise funds for Litten’s friend Leonard, who is battling Facial Fibrous Dysplasia. This is a rare and serious condition that can lead to blindness and severe disfigurement if left untreated.

Fans and castmates were shocked when they received the news that Bobby Knutt had died suddenly from heart failure in 2017 at the age of 71 while on holiday in France. At the time, Benidorm creator Derren Litten tweeted: “Very sad Benidorm news guys. The wonderful Bobby Knutt has passed away suddenly aged 71. Sending our Beni love to his family.”

Bobby Knutt on Benidorm
Bobby Knutt played cheeky pensioner Eddie Dawson on the sitcom(Image: Jam Press/Derren Litten)

Co-star Tony Maudsley, who played Kenneth in the series, added: “Take a bow Grandad Dawson. Your Benidorm family will miss you. RIP Bobby Knutt x.”

Knutt’s had a long and successful career, as he found fame early in life on The Comedians and went on to bag roles in Emmerdale, Coronation Street, and Last of the Summer Wine. In Emmerdale he played Albert Dingle for a decade, and later appeared in Corrie as garage boss Ron Sykes.

Off-screen he was also known for stage work, a stint doing comedy shows on cruise ships, and his role as the voice of Gaffer in the Tetley Tea adverts.

After his death, it was revealed that Knutt left much of his £350,000 estate to friends and his sister, while his four children received little or no inheritance. He asked to be buried with his third wife Donna Hartley-Wass, a former Olympian and champion bodybuilder who passed away in 2013.

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



Source link

Trump issues pardons for politicians, reality TV stars, a union leader and a rapper

President Trump issued a series of pardons on Wednesday, awarding them to a former New York congressman, a Connecticut governor, a rapper known as “NBA YoungBoy,” a labor union leader and a onetime Army officer who flouted safety measures during the coronavirus pandemic.

Trump’s actions mixed his willingness to pardon prominent Republicans and other supporters, donors and friends with the influence of Alice Marie Johnson, whom Trump recently named his pardon czar after he offered her a pardon in 2020.

He commuted the sentence of Larry Hoover, a former Chicago gang leader serving a life sentence at a supermax prison in Colorado. Hoover was first imprisoned in connection with a murder in 1973, and was convicted of running a criminal enterprise in 1998, but later renounced his criminal past and petitioned for a reduced sentence. He remains incarcerated on state charges.

Louisiana rap artist NBA YoungBoy, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden and whose stage moniker stands for “Never Broke Again,” also received a Trump pardon.

In 2024, he was sentenced to just under two years in prison on gun-related charges after he acknowledged having possessed weapons despite being a convicted felon. Gaulden also pleaded guilty to his role in a prescription drug fraud ring in Utah.

Gaulden’s and the other pardons were confirmed Wednesday evening by two White House officials who spoke only on condition of anonymity to detail actions that had not yet been made public.

In a statement posted online, Gaulden said, “I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and giving me the opportunity to keep building — as a man, as a father, and as an artist.”

He said this “opens the door to a future I’ve worked hard for and I am fully prepared to step into this,” and thanked Johnson.

Trump has spent the week issuing high-profile pardons. Video released by a White House aide showed Johnson in the Oval Office on Tuesday, as Trump called the daughter of Todd and Julie Chrisley of the reality show “Chrisley Knows Best” to say he was pardoning them.

Their show spotlighted the family’s extravagant lifestyle, but the couple was convicted of conspiring to defraud banks in the Atlanta area out of more than $30 million in loans by submitting false documents Their daughter, Savannah Chrisley, addressed the Republican convention last summer and had long said her parents were treated unfairly.

Also Wednesday, Trump pardoned James Callahan, a New York union leader who pleaded guilty to failing to report $315,000 in gifts from an advertising firm and was about to be sentenced.

And the president pardoned former Connecticut Gov. John Rowland, a Republican who served from 1995 to 2004 and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for charges related to concealing his involvement in two federal election campaigns.

He also pardoned Michael Grimm, a New York Republican who resigned from Congress after being convicted of tax fraud. Grimm won reelection in 2014 despite being under indictment for underreporting wages and revenue at a restaurant that he ran.

Grimm eventually resigned after pleading guilty and serving eight months in prison. Last year, Grimm was paralyzed from the chest down when he was thrown off a horse during a polo tournament.

Yet another Trump pardon was issued for Army Lt. Mark Bradshaw, who was convicted in 2022 of reporting to work without undergoing a COVID-19 test.

Alice Marie Johnson was convicted in 1996 on eight criminal counts related to a Memphis-based cocaine trafficking operation. Trump commuted her life sentence in 2018 at the urging of celebrity Kim Kardashian West, allowing for Johnson’s early release.

Johnson then served as the featured speaker on the final night of the 2020 Republican National Convention, and Trump subsequently pardoned her before more recently naming her his pardons czar.

Weissert writes for the Associated Press.

Source link

NBA finals: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stars as Oklahoma Thunder beat Minnesota Timberwolves

The Oklahoma City Thunder “have a lot more work to do” after reaching their first NBA Finals since 2012 with a win against the Minnesota Timberwolves, says Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

The NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) scored 34 points, seven rebounds and eight assists in the 124-94 victory as the Thunder won the best-of-seven Western Conference finals series 4-1.

The Thunder remain on course for a first NBA title, having been beaten by the Miami Heat in 2012.

“This is a step in the right direction but we have a lot more work to do to get to our ultimate goal, so let’s buckle up and get ready,” said Gilgeous-Alexander.

“That’s all that I’m focused on. This isn’t the end of our road.”

The Thunder will host game one of the Finals next Thursday, when they face the winners of the Eastern Conference finals between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks for the NBA title. Indiana lead the series 3-1 with game five on Thursday.

Gilgeous-Alexander joins Steph Curry, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant as the only players in the past 20 years to reach the Finals in the same year as winning the MVP.

The 26-year-old Canadian, also named Western Conference MVP on Wednesday, is on course to become the first scoring champion since Shaquille O’Neal in 2000 to win an NBA title in the same season.

Chet Holmgren added 22 points while Jalen Williams also scored 19 for the Thunder, who are the youngest team in the NBA Finals since the Portland Trail Blazers in 1977, with an average age of 25.6 years.

Gilgeous-Alexander added: “These guys really make me feel like I’m a kid playing AAU basketball, like I’m 15 years old again.

“It’s just fun. That’s what makes us really good. We have so much fun being out there together.”

Meanwhile, the Timberwolves saw their season end in the conference finals for the second year running, having lost to the Dallas Mavericks last year.

“They dominated the game from the tip,” said Anthony Edwards, who scored 19 points for the Timberwolves, who were led by Julius Randle with 24 points.

“I tip my hat to those guys. They came ready.”

Source link

Chargers’ Tarheeb Still, Cam Hart eager to prove they can be stars

Tarheeb Still said his farewells and was ready to leave for a three-day weekend. On a Thursday this offseason, the second-year cornerback told Ben Herbert, the Chargers’ executive director of player personnel, that he would “see him Monday.”

A deep voice in the background suddenly changed Still’s schedule.

“Why aren’t you coming in tomorrow?” Khalil Mack asked the 22-year-old.

Motivated by Mack’s example, Still is poised for a breakout season as he competes for a larger role in a stacked secondary group. The former fifth-round pick who started 12 games as a rookie has been working with the 34-year-old, nine-time Pro Bowl selection every Friday, picking Mack’s brain on football and life.

No wonder why Still “seems like he’s a different person,” defensive backs coach Steve Clinkscale said.

“I love when you see young players run towards great players, greatness and not the other direction,” Clinkscale said. “It’s awesome to mimic their habits and what they do, especially their good habits, and Tarheeb has really done that. He’s really grown up and matured.”

Still was already working with Herbert from Monday through Thursday, but soon added Fridays with Mack. They begin their strength training around 9 a.m. together, but Still knows Mack gets to the facility earlier in the training room. There’s no way Mack could have built his Hall of Fame-worthy career without putting in every ounce of extra work.

“Khalil is just showing me how to be intentional,” Still said. “Every day, taking advantage of small incremental gains every day to get to where I want to be.”

The Chargers progressed to the next step of their offseason program Tuesday, opening organized team activities. The sight of offense and defense lining up against each other for the first time during the offseason brought excitement to the facility, but frustration for Cam Hart. The second-year cornerback, who, like Still, was drafted in the fifth round last year, is not yet fully cleared after undergoing shoulder surgery in January.

Hart sustained a torn labrum against the Houston Texans in the playoffs, but said he expects to be cleared to return around mandatory minicamp, which begins June 10.

The shoulder injury was a punctuation mark on a promising, but injury-riddled rookie year for Hart. Despite making six starts in 14 appearances with 37 tackles, Hart also battled two concussions and an ankle injury. The injuries tormented Hart as he went through the offseason program, rehabbing twice a day since the shoulder injury.

Chargers cornerback Cam Hart speaks during a news conference in El Segundo on Tuesday.

Chargers cornerback Cam Hart speaks during a news conference in El Segundo on Tuesday.

(Jayne Kamin-Oncea / Associated Press)

“I showed a small percentage of who Cam can be in the NFL last year,” Hart said. “With 17 healthy games, I think I got a lot more to show.”

Although they return most of their top performers from last year’s secondary that ranked seventh in the NFL in passing yards allowed per game compared to 30th in 2023, the Chargers have renewed competition at cornerback without Kristian Fulton and Asante Samuel Jr. Fulton parlayed a resurgent season with the Chargers into a multi-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs as a free agent, and Samuel remains a free agent after a shoulder injury limited the former second-round pick to just four games last year.

Wanting to bolster the secondary with more size and speed, the Chargers brought in free agents Benjamin St-Juste and Donte Jackson. The 6-foot-3 St-Juste started in 42 of his 45 appearances for the Washington Commanders in the last three seasons, and Jackson, an eight-year NFL veteran, is coming off a career-best five interceptions with the Pittsburgh Steelers last year. Still and Hart, who were rookies hoping to make any positive impact a year ago, are now “the cream of the crop,” Clinkscale said.

The newest crop of rookies even flashed their potential Tuesday as seventh-round selection Trikweze Bridges and undrafted free agent Jaylen Jones each got an interception during the no-contact 11-on-11 periods.

The secondary depth could cause headaches for Clinkscale. He wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Nobody has a spot,” Clinkscale said. “We want to see who’s going to earn it.”

With more than three months remaining until the Chargers open their season in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Still knew he had to dial back the competition Tuesday during practice. The drills are still meant to be non-contact during the voluntary sessions. Keeping everyone on their feet and healthy was more important than breaking up a pass or grabbing an interception, Still said.

Still was attached to receiver Ladd McConkey’s hip on a deep route down the sideline, but didn’t dive or reach for the ball to breakup a slightly underthrown pass from quarterback Justin Herbert. McConkey’s tightrope catch drew cheers from his teammates.

Still said the no-contact periods were perfect opportunities to hone his technique, but when asked if he would have picked off the pass intended for McConkey, Still covered his face.

“No comment,” he said, trying to hide his smile.

The confident look on his face was comment enough.

Source link

Trump to pardon ex-reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley

May 27 (UPI) — President Donald Trump is set to pardon Todd and Julie Chrisley, former television stars serving lengthy prison terms after being found guilty of conspiring to defraud banks and committing tax evasion.

The couple gained fame in the United States through their Chrisley Knows Best reality show in which they flaunted their wealth. They were found guilty in 2022 of manipulating financial records to make it appear as if they were wealthier than they really were, when applying for more than $30 million in loans from 2007 to 2012.

They received a combined 19-year prison sentence, with Todd Chrisley to serve 12 years in prison and Julie Chrisley sentenced to serve seven. Both sentences came with three years’ supervised release.

Trump, a former reality star, is expected to grant the couple the latest presidential pardons of his second administration.

In a video excerpt published on X by a White House aide of a phone call Tuesday between Trump and the jailed couple’s adult children, the president is heard stating, “your parents are going to be free and clean, and I hope we can do that by tomorrow.”

“I don’t know them, but give them my regards and wish them a good life.”

“Mr. President, I just want to say thank you for bringing my parents back,” Grayson Chrisley is heard responding.

“Yeah, well, they were given a pretty harsh treatment from what I’m hearing,” Trump replied.

Margo Martin, the White House aide who published the clip online, said in the caption that Trump will be granting them “full pardons.”

“Trump Knows Best!” she added.

The Conservative Political Action Conference said in a statement that it “appreciates” Trump’s pardoning of Todd and Julie Chrisley, the parents of its Nolan Center for Justice senior fellow, Savannah Chrisley, who was on the phone call Tuesday with Trump.

“The Chrisleys were targeted by weaponized prosecutors who abused the power granted to them by our criminal justice system,” CPAC said in a statement.

“Thank you to President Trump for restoring order and integrity to the justice system.”

According to prosecutors, the Chrisleys, who were found guilty in June 2022, spent money they defrauded from banks to purchase luxury cars, real estate and travel and then used new fraudulent loans to pay off the old loans.

Todd Chrisley filed for bankruptcy and walked away from $20 million in debt. On top of the conspiracy to defraud banks, they were found guilty of conspiring to defraud the Internal Revenue Service. Julie Chrisley was also found guilty of wire fraud and obstruction of justice.

Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has used his executive powers to punish political adversaries with executive orders and to seemingly reward convicted friends, supporters and donors with presidential pardons.

On Monday, Trump pardoned disgraced former Virginia sheriff Scott Jenkins who was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment after a federal court found he accepted tens of thousands of dollars in bribes to appoint local businessmen as auxiliary deputy sheriffs. The president described Jenkins as being a victim of a “corrupt and weaponized Biden” Department of Justice.

Last month, Trump pardoned Paul Walczak, a former nursing home executive who was sentenced to 18 months in jail for tax crimes and whose mother had raised millions for the New York real estate mogul’s campaigns.

In March, he also pardoned Devon Archer, a former business associate of Hunter Biden who was sentenced to a year and a day in prison in 2022 for a scheme to defraud a Native American community. However, he testified against the Biden family during the Republicans’ failed investigation to try and impeach former President Joe Biden.

Source link

Tottenham stars’ bonus for winning Europa League revealed with players set for mammoth payday

TOTTENHAM stars are set for a big payday after their Europa League triumph.

Brennan Johnson created history by scoring the only goal in Bilbao to beat Manchester United.

Son Heung-Min of Tottenham Hotspur lifts the Europa League trophy with his teammates.

2

The Tottenham squad are set for a big paydayCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham Hotspur manager, celebrating with a Europa League medal.

2

Ange Postecoglou will pick up a £2million bonusCredit: Getty

And in doing so he pocketed some extra cash for himself and his team-mates.

The Spurs squad have earned a big bonus for winning the Europa League.

Boss Ange Postecoglou will receive £2million for his role in the famous win, report the BBC.

While the squad will be given £3m to be divided between each player.

Some stars will also earned a pay rise if they have a Champions League qualification clause in their contract.

Tottenham will compete in Europe’s elite competition next season for the first time since 2022/23.

That means there could be an extra £100m in the coffers thanks to prize money, TV revenue and additional sponsorships.

Spurs’ Europa League win saw them scoop a £10.95m cash prize from Uefa.

BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS

Tottenham’s qualification mean there will be six English teams competing in the Champions League next season.

Liverpool and Arsenal have booked their place which means Manchester City, Newcastle, Chelsea, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest will fight it out for the final three spots on Sunday.

Tottenham Players leave team hotel after Europa League triumph over Man United

Source link

Inside Loose Women ‘war’ – stars locked in feud as some panellists branded ‘teachers’ pets’

The Loose Women panellists are believed to be enraged over the huge shake-up at ITV, which will see the programme taken off air for almost half of the year

The Loose Women stars are said to be locked in a feud over younger on-screen talent
The Loose Women stars are said to be locked in a feud over younger on-screen talent(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

Older members of the Loose Women panel are believed to be vowing to “fight” against the younger stars. It comes amidst a huge shake-up at ITV, which will see a huge overhaul of their daytime scheduling, affecting various shows.

The network announced earlier this week that Loose and Lorraine Kelly’s self-titled show will see its time on air cut to just 30 weeks of the year, rather than airing on a continuous basis. Despite This Morning being hit with a huge dip in viewing figures, the show will not be affected.

Lorraine’s programme has also taken another hit and will air for just half an hour, rather than an hour, as Good Morning Britain has been extended for an extra 30 minutes. But tension at Loose is believed to be at an all-time high, with panellists feeling as though they’re on a probation period.

The Loose Women stars have been left enraged over the younger members of the panel who've been branded 'teachers' pets'
The Loose Women stars have been left enraged over the younger members of the panel who’ve been branded ‘teachers’ pets’(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

It’s claimed that stars of the midday programme, including Christine Lampard and Coleen Nolan, hadn’t been informed of the news until it was made public. Reports claim that older women on the panel, who have been there since it launched a quarter of a century ago, believe they’ll be fighting against “PR friendly” younger members of the team, including Frankie Bridge, Olivia Attwood and TikToker GK Barry.

The majority of the panel have been through ITV cuts and the financial crisis of 2008 and 2009 and have come out the other side. But the news this week is said to have left them blindsided. A source said: “They feel like often all the negative criticism is levelled at them, the odd ‘out of touch’ comment, whereas with the new panellists such as Liv and Grace, there is a buzz around them because they have that different point of view.”

Sources have said that older member's of the panel have nothing to worry about
Sources have said that older member’s of the panel have nothing to worry about(Image: ITV)

They added to The Sun: “Execs have also proudly pro-claimed how the youngsters have brought with them a much-needed new audience — and now all of a sudden the older panellists feel like they are going to have to fight for their places against these shiny teachers’ pets. It’s now five months or so for them to prove their worth and sing for their supper.”

But a source at the network said that the older panellists on Loose Women are “highly valued and celebrated”. They added that while there are reports of the panel “fighting” to get time on the show, the Loose Women podcast and Over 60 and Over 70s specials will “keep everyone busy.”

It’s claimed that regular anchors, including Christine, Kaye Adams, Ruth Langsford and Charlene White, are all safe in their positions but many have been left worried that bosses will meticulously look over their social media posts, episode ratings and audience polling results.

GK Barry and Frankie Bridge have apparently been a hit with bosses
GK Barry and Frankie Bridge have apparently been a hit with bosses(Image: ITV)

Reports claim that many of the panellists feel they will now have to ‘audition for their role’ and tensions will rise as they continue to demonstrate how bold and feisty they can all be. Over the years, viewers have seen clashes between each of the panellists, with former star Carol McGiffin allegedly clashing with Andrea McLean after she was left off the invite list for her wedding.

Carol took to her Best Magazine column to highlight this, writing, “I’m ecstatic for them both, even though I wasn’t invited to the wedding. Andrea’s managed to squeeze in two weddings in less time than I’ve been engaged to Mark, which is a bit embarrassing, to say the least.”

Speaking in 2014, Mylene Klass, who often appears on the panel, hit out following a clash with broadcaster and journalist, Janet Street-Porter. On the show, Janet lost her temper with the star, saying,”I’m happiest when I’m not sat next to you Myleene!”

Janet has never shied away from sharing her thoughts on the panellists
Janet has never shied away from sharing her thoughts on the panellists (Image: ITV)

Following this, the singer took to social media to vent: “I love Loose Women. It’s nice to be able to articulate and get things out there. But I feel it was getting a bit misogynistic, a bit post-menopausal or pre-menopausal and ranty. That’s not how women should be represented so it’s nice they’ve refreshed the panel and we can talk about politics, fashion designers and what else is going on in the week.

“It’s a show for women but I don’t feel like it empowered me. People think you’re best friends with everybody on Loose Women. You’re absolutely not. You have to just tolerate [some people] because you’ve got to get the job done.”

Elsewhere, speaking out last year, McGiffin fumed: “I don’t regret leaving – I don’t fit in there any more. Someone, somewhere, will be offended by absolutely everything. I’d rather not be on a show that panders to that. It’s boring – and I won’t be told what I can or can’t say.”

Despite her ongoing clash with the show, she has remained close to Denise Welch, Kaye, Jane Moore and Nadia Sawalha. But, Carol, who never refrains from speaking her mind, told Women’s Own: “Some, I have nothing in common with. As I said to them, ‘You’re not friends, you’re just people I work with, who I really like.’ Which horrified them.”

The Mirror approached Loose Women for comment.

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



Source link

Loose Women stars left in fear as they’re forced to ‘sing for supper’ amid ‘time-bomb’

The Loose Women panellists are said to be in fear over their future on the show after ITV announced a major shake-up, which has been branded a ‘time-bomb’ by some

There is believed to be tension behind the scenes between the older Loose Women stars and the younger panellists
There is believed to be tension behind the scenes between the older Loose Women stars and the younger panellists

Loose Women stars are said to have been left shaken following ITV’s dramatic shake-up. Earlier this week, the network announced a major overhaul of their daytime schedules, which affects both Loose and Lorraine Kelly’s self-titled morning programme.

However, despite being hit with a mass loss of viewers, the magazine show This Morning remains unaffected. While all shows air throughout the year, the new schedule means that both Loose and Lorraine will only be on screens for 30 weeks of the year. Meanwhile, Good Morning Britain has been extended until 9.30, axing part of Lorraine’s show.

The shake-up will come into play in January, with many of the Loose panel now feeling as though they’re on a probation period. Sources have claimed that anchors on the show, including Christine Lampard, Coleen Nolan and Gloria Hunniford had not been informed of the shake-up before it was made public.

It’s claimed that some of the older members of the panel who have been part of the show since its launch 25 years ago, are worried that they will be fighting for appearances on the panel, while “PR friendly” younger members of the team including GK Barry, Olivia Attwood and former singer Frankie Bridge will be favoured.

READ MORE: Weight loss method backed by Dr Michael Mosley and loved by Davina McCall

Sources claim that the younger members of Loose Women are being favoured by the top dogs
Sources claim that the younger members of Loose Women are being favoured by the top dogs(Image: ITV)

ITV sources have criticised This Morning for being “favoured” despite its dwindling viewing figures. The tension behind the scenes at the network is believed to be “unbearable,” with This Morning being hit with “rage.” Sources claim that the shake-up has sparked a ” time bomb,” with executives allegedly doing everything to defuse the situation amongst talent.

“ITV Daytime could combust from the inside out at this rate,” a source said. They went to tell The Sun that older panellists on Loose Women have seen shake-ups in the past but “weathered” them. Now, this news has come out of nowhere, leaving them shaken.

The older members of the panel are believed to think that the negative criticism surrounding the programme has been directed towards them with “out of touch” comments, whereas the new and younger panellists have a hype around them due to having different viewers than their older colleagues.

Cast on the show are now feeling they have to 'sing for their supper'
Cast on the show are now feeling they have to ‘sing for their supper’(Image: (Credit: Amy Brammall / ITV) )

Older members of the panel believe that the younger stars are “shiny teachers’ pets,” after top bosses have praised them for bringing in a younger audience. “It’s now five months or so for them to prove their worth and sing for their supper,” the source added. They went on to say: “The older panellists feel like until January they’re on probation and pragmatic bosses will be scrutinising their every tweet, every rating and audience polling — everything like that.”

There is also believed to be tension around the pay from the show, with some on a staff PAYE contract, and some panellists working on a freelance basis. But while the take-home fee is different, every panellist is believed to be on around £3,000 per episode. The Mirror previously revealed that Loose Women had become embroiled in a pay row behind the scenes.

Three big stars had told their bosses that they would walk out if the issues were not resolved. It came after the network was hit with a change by HMRC on tax legislation. ITV were made to decide whether a role was self-employed or employed for tax purposes from April 2021.

Some stars had been told to take a PAYE contract, meaning that instead of paying corporation tax at 19 per cent, they would have had to pay 40 per cent on earnings between £50,271 and £150,000, plus National Insurance. A source behind the scenes told us: “They have all been self-employed for decades. Their accountants are saying no, they are self-employed… and are not going to go on PAYE.”

Our mole added: “They’re so strict about it, and we’re talking about the big players.” ITV sources said the broadcaster had communicated the change to all those concerned across the channel and that assessments are done on a “case-by-case basis”.

The Mirror approached Loose Women for comment.

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



Source link