Author: bang1

  • Loose Women star Gloria Hunniford’s husband dies as family release heartbreaking statement

    Loose Women star Gloria Hunniford’s husband dies as family release heartbreaking statement

    Loose Women star Gloria Hunniford is mourning the death of husband Stephen Way, who has passed away at the age of 85

    Gloria Hunniford’s husband of more than 20 years has died at the age of 85.

    The Loose Women star, 84, wed the businessman in 1998, and she said he would leave “the most enormous void, not only in my life”.

    Stephen Way, who was a renowned celebrity hairdresser, passed away on Tuesday following a “heroic fight” with an illness, the family announced.

    Gloria and Stephen celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary last year. Speaking of her loss for the first time publicly today, Gloria said: “Stephen was a gentleman and a giant of a man, who will leave the most enormous void not only in my life, but our entire family. He was an incredibly kind, generous, and caring man, with a delightfully quirky sense of humour, which remained till the end. We had a tremendously happy 25-year marriage and did so many beautiful and exciting things together that I will always cherish.”

    Stephen Way and Gloria Hunniford
    Stephen Way and Gloria Hunniford 
    Image:
    Dave Benett/Getty Images for Mam)

    Gloria released an emotional tribute following the sad news
    Gloria released an emotional tribute following the sad news 
    Image:
    David Dyson / Daily Mirror)

    Stephen was described as a “wonderful husband, father and grandfather” and Gloria added: “It’s a great shock and words cannot express my sadness at this time. A bright shining light has dimmed, and he shall be missed at every turn.”

    It was Stephen who broke the news of the death of her former husband Don Keating as she came off stage after hosting a TV chat show in 1997, she revealed that year.

    When they started dating, he owned an hairdressing salon in New Bond Street, Mayfair.

    Last year, Gloria revealed Stephen had been left partially blind in his right eye after suffering a second stroke. She had spoken of his numerous health battles and in 2020 praised the NHS for saving his life. Stephen was involved in a taxi accident in 2019, leaving the base of his spine fractured.

    Loose Women fans were not impressed with Gloria Hunniford's comments about Oprah Winfrey
    Gloria Hunniford paid tribute to husband Stephen Way 
    Image:
    ITV)

    In 2004, Stephen had a heart attack and in 2012 he had his first stroke. Speaking of the incident, Gloria previously said: “He said something about the garden to me, he told me there was something the matter with his left arm and said it was like cotton wool and he had no control over it.”

    He had previously been Gloria’s support following the tragic death of her daughter in 2004. Caron, who had followed in her mum’s footsteps and became a TV presenter, died from breast cancer aged 41 in 2004.

    Earlier this year she explained her the pain of Caron’s death “never goes away”. Speaking of how Stephen helped her at the time and with tough periods in her life, Gloria previously said: “Stephen’s a lovely man and so supportive of me in every way. It’s very important to look after your relationship, especially when it’s a second marriage, and my concession is that I don’t work every day so we have time together.”

    Gloria previously said losing a child was “the deepest sense of loss you can ever face”.

    “Because I have personally lost parents, I’ve lost a former husband. Yes, it’s all relative to the situation and relative to the person and relative to where you are in your life. But I think to lose a child sends you into the darkest black hole imaginable and one which I never thought I’d get out of.”

    Gloria and Stephen exchanged wedding vows at St Peter’s Church in Kent in 1998. They continued the celebrations at the majestic Hever Castle. Last year, the couple returned to the same spot to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. She told Hello Magazine at the time that her memories of that special day are as vivid as ever, and the secret to their happy marriage is “love, laughter and good conversation”.

    She assed: “I can remember walking into the church, filled with family and friends, and the candles all lit – it was wonderful. We’ve often said we would love to live it all over again.

    “Of course, there is physical attraction, but our relationship is full of kindness and humour. We enjoy talking to each other. Talk, talk, talk – that is a wonderful thing.”

  • Loose Women’s Coleen Nolan makes cheeky jibe at Ruth Langsford after lengthy show absence

    Loose Women’s Coleen Nolan makes cheeky jibe at Ruth Langsford after lengthy show absence

    Loose Women star Coleen Nolan made a cheeky jibe at the expense of her co-star Ruth Langsford following her lengthy absence from the ITV lunchtime show

    Coleen Nolan made a cheeky comment about Ruth Langsford’s lengthy absence from Loose Women.

    Ruth took some time away from the ITV lunchtime show earlier this year following her split from husband Eamonn Holmes. The pair had been married for decades but shockingly announced their split earlier this year.

    In a joint statement, their spokespeople confirmed the split, sharing: “Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes have confirmed their marriage is over and they are in the process of divorcing.”

    Since then, Ruth has made her return to the panel show for a week or so before heading off for some pre-arranged time off. During a chat on today’s show, they were discussing what was coming up when Ruth couldn’t think of the word to explain what she was saying. Coleen quickly jumped in to say the word, with Ruth thanking her colleague. Coleen then made a cheeky jibe at Ruth’s absence from the show, where she said Ruth had been “off for a while”.

    Ruth was left shocked by the cheeky vibe
    Ruth was left shocked by the cheeky vibe 
    Image:
    ITV1)

    Ruth returned to Loose Women last month following her marriage split. In her first appearance on the show since the pair went their separate ways, she said: “Welcome to your first Loose Women of the week, it’s great to have your company!” whilst Coleen stepped in to say: “Can I just say? I am so so happy that you’re back!”

    The entire audience cheered as Janet Street Porter said: “Thank god! Thank god! I was left with her and her!” before Ruth apologised and added: “I’m sorry, Janet. I won’t do it again,” as they all discussed her taking an extended break from the show.

    Since then, they have discussed a number of topics – but nothing specifically about Eamonn. One of the topics they chatted about was distancing themselves from toxic friends. Introducing the segment, Ruth said: “A journalist said today that female friends are too toxic to bother with and she says that women can be too catty, overly sensitive and competitive over everything from marriage to body shape. Is she right?” as panellist Myleene Klass responded: “I think it’s so lazy to make that kind of comment. It’s just women being put against women and it’s never done to men. I couldn’t disagree more because my girlfriends are my absolute rock through divorce, miscarriage and everything. I call them my 4am because there are some girlfriends I know I can rely on to ring at 4am. I had one girlfriend who knocked on my door at 2am because she didn’t hear from me.”

    Ruth then said: “We suffer it on Loose Women where people always try to say ‘Aw the Loose Women are always falling out’ or ‘you can’ all get on’. It’s almost as if people can’t accept that a woman can get along with a woman. I’m not saying there can’t be catty women, but there are also catty men and b****y men too.”

  • Myleene Klass sobs on Loose Women after best friend Lauren Laverne’s cancer diagnosis

    Myleene Klass sobs on Loose Women after best friend Lauren Laverne’s cancer diagnosis

    Myleene Klass broke down in tears on Loose Women today as she spoke about her best friend Lauren Laverne’s cancer diagnosis

    Myleene Klass was in tears on Loose Women today as she spoke about her Lauren Laverne’s cancer diagnosis.

    The Loose Women star was in tears as the panel started the show by discussing Lauren’s diagnosis. The One Show presenter and radio star shared a selfie from her hospital bed today, where she wrote: “I recently had a cancer diagnosis. It was (thank God) caught early and unexpectedly during a screening test and I am expected to make a full recovery. I ‘m in hospital at the moment and wanted to take this moment to say thank you: firstly to medical teams who have got me this far with incredible skill and kindness.

    “To my family and friends who have been absolutely extraordinary every step of the way – I am so very grateful and love you so much. And of course thank you to my colleagues…. for their support and for giving me the time off that I need to get better.”

    Lauren and Myleene are great friends
    Lauren and Myleene are great friends
    As she spoke at the start of the show, Myleene was clapped by the audience as she broke down in tears, with the panel reassuring her. She kept saying Lauren would be angry at her for crying, but she was just devastated to hear of her diagnosis.

    “She’s gonna tell me off,” Myleene said, as she spoke of how brave her friend is. “She’s my best friend. I’m so glad we get to see what an incredible woman she is. But please get tested,” she said, urging others.

    Lauren took to Instagram earlier today to urge others to get tested and not put off their appointments.

    “If you’re avoiding a test or putting off an appointment to get yourself checked out please, please do it today. Half of us will get cancer at some point, and if you do, finding out asap is everything,” she said, “It’s usually my job to bring the good vibes on air but any you have to spare are very much welcome here. Sending loads of love to anyone in a similar boat, or who has made it back to shore.”

    Myleene was in tears as she spoke about her diagnosis
    Myleene was in tears as she spoke about her diagnosis 
    Image:
    ITV)

    The pair have a close bond, with Myleene having previously opened up about how Lauren supported her through a devastating miscarriage while live on her Smooth Radio show. She recalled: “I went to the loo while the music was playing and there was blood everywhere. I didn’t know what to do. I had one hour left of my show. I rang Lauren and she said: “Do one link, take a breath, come out and call me. Lauren got me through. I did the next link and called her. We counted the links. I would go out, sob and come back in, take a deep breath and speak. I don’t know what I would have done [without her].”*If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at the Miscarriage Association. You can call them on 01924 200799 or email [email protected]

  • Liam Payne ‘jumped from hotel room balcony’ claim authorities after One Direction star’s death

    Liam Payne ‘jumped from hotel room balcony’ claim authorities after One Direction star’s death

    Local authorities in Argentina have confirmed that Liam Payne “jumped from the balcony” of his hotel room before falling to his death, according to reports

    Authorities have confirmed the chilling details of One Direction star Liam Payne’s shocking death, revealing that he “jumped from the balcony” of his hotel room in Argentina, plunging to his death, reports indicate.

    In an official statement given to The Associated Press, police authorities disclosed that the 31 year old singer “had jumped from the balcony of his room,” apparently dispelling any notions of an accidental fall or foul play. The devastating incident occurred during Payne’s holiday in Buenos Aires with girlfriend Kate Cassidy, which included supporting ex-bandmate Niall Horan at a concert.

    A preliminary autopsy indicated Payne died from “multiple traumas” leading to “internal and external bleeding” as a result of the 40-foot descent from the third floor of the hotel. Responding to an emergency call made just after 5pm local time, authorities raced to the scene having been alerted to an “aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” as stated in the report to AP.

    White powder, believed to be cocaine was found in Liam's room
    White powder, believed to be cocaine, was found in Liam’s room 
    Image:
    No credit)
    As the music world mourns, updates on Liam Payne’s sudden passing reveal the cause of death as his bereaved family speaks out. The investigation into Payne’s death intensifies with police on the lookout for a drug supplier following the discovery of narcotics in his hotel suite.

    Before the catastrophe struck, staff at Hotel Casa Sur had desperately reached out to emergency services twice, the reception head underscored the urgency during one such plea: “We have a guest who’s off his head on drugs and is destroying everything in his room. We need someone to come.”

    After the call cut off, an employee who later pinpointed Esteban rang again with an urgent plea: “I don’t know if the guest’s life is in danger.” Continuing in worry, he said: “The room has a balcony and we are afraid he might do something. Just send an ambulance, only an ambulance.”

    LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 28: Liam Payne attends the World Premiere of I Am Bolt at Odeon Leicester Square on November 28, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Marsland/Mike Marsland/WireImage)
    Liam was a troubled star 
    Image:
    WireImage)
    Tragically, despite the determined efforts of the hotel staff to prompt swift action, officers didn’t make it to the scene quickly enough to prevent Liam’s tragic demise. Post-mortem inquiries saw Liam’s hotel room turned over as police combed through, unearthing drug-related items now sent for analysis and a space thrown into chaos.

    In what became a disturbing tableau, authorities found a wrecked TV, residue of white powder, an almost dry champagne flute, scattered fragments of burnt aluminium foil, and a charred soft drink can.

    Probes into the musician’s untimely death forge ahead, with forensic toxicology and anatomical pathology slated to dissect blood and urine samples for hints of narcotics. And further delving into his medical past is set to shed light on the state of Liam’s mental health.

    Alberto Crescenti, chief of Buenos Aires emergency medical services, revealed that Liam suffered an immediate death as a result of sustaining multiple injuries including a skull fracture. He detailed: “Our role was to head there quickly, give medical attention, and try to resuscitate him, but his injuries were incompatible with life. Based on what the team saw, there was apparently a cranial fracture and extremely serious injuries that led to his immediate death.”

    Liam Payne in his hotel, as seen on Argentinian TV
    Liam Payne in his hotel, as seen on Argentinian TV
    Local authorities have now confirmed that Liam jumped from his balcony at the Casa Sur Hotel., with Pablo Policicchio, the communications director for the Buenos Aires Security Ministry, speaking to PEOPLE.

    In a follow-up call, the employee added: “We need you to send someone urgently because I don’t know if the guest’s life is in danger. They must be in a room that has a balcony. And well, we’re a little bit worried he’ll do something, that he’ll put his life at risk.”

    Local police previously confirmed that an investigation was underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Toxological and anatomical-pathological studies of blood and urine are being undertaken to determine any traces of drugs.

    Pictures from onside Liam Payne's deluxe suite show a smashed TV screen and traces of a white powder on a desk
    Pictures from onside Liam Payne’s deluxe suite show a smashed TV screen and traces of a white powder on a deskPolice found a bottle of whisky, a lighter, and a white powder in the room, as well as medications including clonazepam – which is used to treat epilepsy, panic disorders or involuntary muscle spasms – and energy pills.

    A notebook and Liam’s passport were seized and handed over to investigators, who also seized a phone that may have belonged to the former One Direction singer.

    If you are struggling with mental health, you can speak to a trained advisor from Mind mental health charity on 0300 123 3393 or email [email protected]

  • Eight shocking celebrity moments caught on camera from TV star’s ‘refusal to clap’ to smooch

    Eight shocking celebrity moments caught on camera from TV star’s ‘refusal to clap’ to smooch

    From Hollywood A listers to daytime telly stars and Strictly contestants, plastering on a smile comes second nature to celebrities, but sometimes the mask can slip or at least look like it has

    Celebrity life seems glamorous, but nothing is picture-perfect all the time – and sometimes the camera that stars are so used to performing in front of can capture some cringe-worthy moments.

    And sometimes, things can be misconstrued and misinterpreted. Nevertheless, it’s always potentially very damaging to have a less-than-perfect-looking moment. Just ask Strictly stars Katya Jones and Wynne Evans; the two are currently on a whirlwind damage limitation PR exercise over social media, TV and radio – after two uncomfortable-to-watch incidents spotted by eagle-eyed Strictly viewers on Saturday night’s show.

    The Mirror looks at the latest Strictly scandal and other less-than-perfect celebrity moments…

    Katya Jones and Wynne Evans

    Strictly's Wynne Evans attempts to do a high five with Katya Jones
    Strictly’s Wynne Evans failed high five with Katya Jones 
    Image:
    BBC)

    Strictly viewers were in equal parts cringing and horrified by two hands-off moments caught on camera between Wynne Evans and Katya Jones. Firstly Strictly pro dancer Katya appeared to snub Go Compare star Wynne Evans giving him an eye roll when he approached her for a high five. A much more concerning moment came when standing behind Katya. Wynne’s hand appeared to move from her waist to her stomach, leading Katya to push it back to her waist.

    Afterwards, the couple posted a video saying the Strictly high-five snub was a silly inside joke between them. On Sunday, Katya posted a solo video addressing the wandering hand. She said: “I need to make something crystal clear. “The hand incident that happened on Saturday night was a very silly inside joke between Wynne and I. So even the idea that it made me feel uncomfortable or offended in any way is complete nonsense. It’s actually absurd.”

    On the Sunday nights results show, Wynne had his hands firmly behind his back throughout and appeared uncomfortable when he was told he and Katya had made it through to the next week.

    Speaking on BBC Radio Wales, where he hosts a programme, Wynne explained: “I’m absolutely heartbroken by the things that have been written about me in the last day. It’s not nice to live in that time, but basically Katya and I are really, really close and we’re really good friends, and on Saturday night we made a stupid joke.

    “It was a stupid joke that went wrong, OK? We thought it was funny. It wasn’t funny. It has been totally misinterpreted. Everything’s on Katya’s socials. She’s talked about it. She’s explained that it was a joke. She wasn’t offended in the least. She doesn’t feel uncomfortable.”

    Katya Jones and Seann Walsh

    Katya Jones and Seann Walsh posing for cameras
    Katya Jones and Seann Walsh kissed after leaving a pub on a night out 
    Image:
    Instagram)
    Katya is no stranger to controversy. In 2018 she was photographed kissing her celebrity dance partner Seann Walsh on a night out.

    She was married to fellow dance pro Neil Jones and the kiss was also captured on Seann’s then girlfriend Rebecca Humphries’ birthday. The shocked girlfriend wrote an open letter calling Seann out during their relationship, while Neil initially stood by his wife but they quietly separated just under a year later.

    When Walsh took part in I’m A Celebrity four years later, he admitted he was destroyed by the scandal and that hardly anyone had bought tickets to his Edinburgh Fringe show the year after Strictly, saying: “My career was dead, I was over.”

    Katya later said: “I’m happy to talk about it now – it doesn’t affect me, it doesn’t affect who I am. It was mental, and it took time to get over it but the way I came out of it, I am happy, and my ex-husband Neil and I have never been so close. Which I think says it all.”

    Nicole Kidman and Salma Hayek

    Nicole Kidman 'shoving' Salma Hayek as Salma attempts to try and position Nicole in front of the cameras at Paris Fashion Week
    ‘ Salma Hayek attempts to try and position Nicole in front of the cameras 
    Image:
    TikTok)

    Nicole walked away from Salma
    Nicole walked away from Salma 
    Image:
    Tik Tok)The two A-listers appeared to share a tense moment on the red carpet for the Balenciaga show at Paris Fashion Week – in front of an agog Katy Perry and the world’s flashbulbs. Nicole 57, and Salma, 58, were standing alongside pop star Katy Perry when Salma turned toward Nicole, appearing to adjust her stance for more photos. Nicole, however, seemed to have had enough of the photo session, moving Salma’s hand away before kissing Katy goodbye and walking off.

    Salma was standing with her husband, French billionaire Francois-Henri Pinault whose company Kering owns Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, and Saint Laurent. While not directly addressing what happened, Salma took to social media to share a picture from the event and tagging Nicole.

    Salma posted “Finally, last night, the grand finale of my Paris Fashion Week 2025… Balenciaga and Demna for a terrific show,” Salma wrote.

    Judi Love and Lorraine Kelly

    Judi Love at the 2024 TV BAFTAs with pursed lips and eye roll as audience claps for Lorraine Kelly award win
    Judi Love’s reaction to Lorraine Kelly winning the 2024 TV BAFTA Special Award went viral 
    Image:
    BBC)
    There seemed to be serious beef between comedian Judi Love and daytime telly royalty Lorraine Kelly at the BAFTA TV Awards earlier this year. Loose Women star Judi Love appeared to roll her eyes and look decidedly unimpressed manner while everybody else around her clapped Lorraine Kelly picked up a special award for her services to morning TV.

    It appeared to viewers that Judi had refused to clap for Lorraine. The next day the ITV colleagues posted a video recreating and mocking Judi’s “side eye.”

    Judi wrote: “After last night’s incident, this morning is becoming international news! I’d like to make an official statement, please watch till the end!!” Lorraine shared the video, writing: “Love you @1Judilove – what a lot of silliness – but it gave us both a laugh this morning xxxxx.”

    Later Judi explained: “You know what, my dress was very tight, I was trying to sit like a lady. The camera was right there, I thought: ‘Okay, this is your moment’ you know it’s going to be on TV, so I just always get prepared.

    “I was trying to be regal, the thing is, I stood up and gave Lorraine a standing ovation. They showed the bit with Andi standing up but missed me out, only showing me going…”

    Harry Styles and Chris Pine

    Fans questioned if Harry Styles spat on Chris Pine at the premiere of Don't Worry Darling
    Fans questioned if Harry Styles spat on Chris Pine at the premiere of Don’t Worry Darling 
    Image:
    Getty Images)
    There were rumours of a cast feud on the set of Olivia Wilde’s film Don’t Worry Darling after a fallout between Olivia and lead actress Florence Pugh. Then Olivia’s boyfriend at the time, Harry Styles added fuel to the fire when when he appeared to “spit” on his co-star Chris Pine.

    In the viral clip, Harry Styles walks up to take an empty seat next to Chris but not before pausing and glances at Chris’s lap. Chris then looks at his lap and shakes his head in disbelief. According to some commentators, it was because Harry had hawked up some shit and fired it over Chris.

    Chris’ representatives called the rumour “a ridiculous story” and “a complete fabrication and the result of an odd online illusion that is clearly deceiving and allows for foolish speculation.”

    Solange Knowles and Jay -Z

    Solange, Jay X and Beyonce walking out of the elevator after Solange attached Jay Z
    Solange Knowles slapped Jay-Z around inside an elevator while Beyonce looked on in security footage. the trio were then snapped walking out 
    Image:
    Splash)
    At the 2014 Met Gala, leaked security footage l showed Solange Knowles kicking and slapping her brother-in-law Jay-Z in the street as a bodyguard tried to hold her back, and Beyoncé looked on nonplussed.

    The world’s press was there to see the trio exit the lift – looking unsurprisingly awkward – given what had just taken place. Beyoncé, Jay-Z and Solange issued a joint statement to address the “great deal of speculation about what triggered the unfortunate incident.”

    “The most important thing is that our family has worked through it…Jay and Solange each assume their share of responsibility for what has occurred. They both acknowledge their role in this private matter that has played out in the public. They both have apologised to each other, and we have moved forward as a united family.”

    Zac Efron

    Zac Efron has an embarrassing moment on the red carpet for The Lorax premiere
    Zac Efron has an embarrassing moment on the red carpet for The Lorax premiere 
    Image:
    melimelo6 / YouTube)
    Not exactly ugly – just a tad inappropriate considering Zac was at a children’s movie premiere.

    At the February 2012 The Lorax premiere, Zac was seen taking his hand out of his pocket to greet a fan. In doing so, the actor accidentally dropped a condom on the red carpet. He swept up the contraceptive immediately with a sheepish grin.

    High School musical star Zac provided the voice for Theodore ‘Ted’ Wiggins, a 12-year-old boy who uncovers the story of the Lorax a mythical creature played by Danny DeVito in the film which highlighted environmental issues.

    Zac Efron has an embarrassing moment on the red carpet for The Lorax premiere
    Zac Efron has an embarrassing moment on the red carpet for The Lorax premiere 
    Image:
    melimelo6 / YouTube)
    The then 24-year-old actor’s embarrassment was clear as he coughed and held his hand to his mouth, pausing to regroup after the mishap. This served as an apology enough.

    In an interview with the Today show, he explained: “I never really had a pocket checking policy to prior to going onto the red carpet before, but now, we fully have instated one.” The interviewer replied, “You know, better to be safe than sorry!” Zac quipped back: “Yes. It’s a great message to add to the many messages in the film.”

    Will Smith and Chris Rock

    Will Smith slapping Chris Rock in front of a global TV audience for the Oscars in 2022
    Will Smith slapped Chris Rock in front of a global TV audience for the Oscars in 2022 
    Image:
    AFP via Getty Images)
    Branded the’ ugliest moment in Oscars history’, no one’s picture perfect mask slipped on this occasion. At the the 2022 Academy Awards host Chris Rock made an ill-advised joke about actress Jada Pinket Smith’s alopecia.

    Her unimpressed husband Will Smith – sitting alongside her – first appeared to laugh at the joke, then walked on stage and slapped the comedian before telling him: ‘Keep my wife’s name out of your f**king mouth’.

    Will went on to win Best Oscar for King Richard, where he played the father of tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams. He appeared to defend his actions in his acceptance speech apologising to the Academy and his fellow nominees before saying: ‘Love will make you do crazy things.’

    The Independence Day star later resigned from the academy and said he had “betrayed the trust of the Academy” and was “heartbroken” over his actions.He added he would “fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct”.

    The actor was given a ten-year ban from attending the Oscars. Chris did not press assault charges but has since joked: “ “Life is good. I got my hearing back.” The comedian also made Will and Jada the butt of several brutal jokes in his stand up tour last year.

  • Exclusive: GK Barry admits she ‘couldn’t get on public transport alone’ as she details anxiety battle

    Exclusive: GK Barry admits she ‘couldn’t get on public transport alone’ as she details anxiety battle

    From viral TikTok videos to a seat on the Loose Women panel, Grace Keeling – known online as GK Barry – has enjoyed a meteoric rise to fame, but she’s still not always been so confident.

    Grace Keeling, the influencer phenomenon with nearly five million social media followers, has changed the influencer game under her viral handle GK Barry. Despite her online image exuding confidence, Grace revealed in an exclusive interview that she hasn’t always been this assured.

    “I used to be really nervous, to do anything or talk to anyone – but everything that I’m doing is pushing me out of my comfort zone and building my confidence,” she admits candidly. The 25 year old’s ascent to fame began with TikTok stardom and has since seen her join the Loose Women panel, host a popular podcast where she interviews A-listers, and soon, take on a new presenting role at the Pride of Britain Awards red carpet event, reports OK!.

    From brewing drinks at Costa Coffee to becoming a familiar face across British households, she shares that her unexpected journey into the limelight has fortified her sense of autonomy and community. Recounting her past anxiety struggles, Grace reflects, “When I first started this journey, I wouldn’t even get on public transport on my own. I wouldn’t really speak to people, I was just too nervous to do any of that. Now I’m hopping on the Tube on my own, I’m interviewing everyone under the sun… it’s really made me a lot more independent and confident. It’s all quite surreal,” she divulges.

    Grace Keeling presenting Saving Grace
    Grace hosts her popular podcast, Saving Grace, where she has welcomed a myriad of famous faces 
    Image:
    Saving Grace/Youtube)
    Despite her success, she admits that she still occasionally battles with nerves. “I get imposter syndrome all the time, especially when I’m interviewing people I’ve grown up watching on telly. I’m just like, ‘How on earth have I got here? ‘ It really is mental.”,. she confesses.

    To combat this, Grace jokes: “A glass of prosecco, that eases the nerves! But also, I just remind myself that I have every right to be here as well. It is truly a case of fake it until you make it for me.”

    Earlier this year, Grace made history by becoming the youngest-ever panellist on Loose Women. Despite the shift from daily vlogs, she’s proven to be a natural fit for the ITV chat show and absolutely loves it.

    “Oh my God, I love Loose Women! My mum is so happy that I’m doing it – she tells everyone. It’s such an amazing show to be a part of, because everyone’s so nice on it.”

    She was initially concerned about how she would be received by the show’s audience, given her age and relative obscurity. “When I started Loose Women , I was very aware that most people who watch the show would have no clue who I am, so I did worry they wouldn’t get my sense of humour. But so far, touch wood, I’ve been received really well. I think people have been really welcoming of someone younger on the panel, offering different views and opinions.”

    Grace Keeling
    Grace detailed that before finding fame, she struggled with anxiety and couldn’t use public transport alone 
    Image:
    WireImage)

    Grace Keeling at the Pride Of Britain
    She is set for a presenting slot at next week’s Pride Of Britain Awards 
    Image:
    Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)
    Her stint on the show has earned her a new fanbase too. “I’m getting the older generation coming up to me in Tesco and being like, ‘I saw you on Loose Women. ‘ I love it,” she chuckles.

    Off the telly, Grace’s hit podcast, Saving Grace, has seen a host of celeb guests from Alison Hammond to Mark Wright. The project even took her on a country-wide tour with live podcast shows, including a sold-out gig at the London Palladium last year, which Grace says was when she realised she’d made it big. “The podcast is so amazing, I love it,” she gushes. When asked about her favourite guests, she responds, “Rob Beckett, Alison Hammond and Tana Mongeau – they’re my top three.”

    While Grace’s life may already seem like a rollercoaster, on 21 October she’ll be interviewing star-studded attendees at the Pride of Britain Awards for the second consecutive year, something she’s eagerly anticipating.

    “Three years ago, if someone had told me, ‘You’re going to be doing stuff on the Pride of Britain red carpet,’ I’d have been like, ‘Oh, I don’t know if I can do that.’ Now I love it,” she shares. “I’m not nervous, just excited. They’re building me a bar, so I’m going to feel very at home! I’m just going to have as much fun as possible, it’s an amazing place to be. Last year I was pulling people over left, right and centre. I had absolutely no decorum! ” Ambitious presenter Grace has grand plans for the future, confessing her dream is to be a mix of Stacey Dooley and Maya Jama.

    She also draws inspiration from Olivia Attwood, who has presented a series of ITV documentaries. Grace reveals her television ambitions, saying: “I’d love to present a documentary, a bit like Olivia Attwood does. I think that would be amazing. I would do everything and anything when it comes to TV. Anyone who wants to snap me up, I’ll do it.”

    The 2024 Pride of Britain Awards will be broadcast on ITV1 on Thursday, 24 October 2024 at 8pm

  • Exclusive: Stacey Solomon plans ‘more children’ amid career slowdown and would ‘love a girl’

    Exclusive: Stacey Solomon plans ‘more children’ amid career slowdown and would ‘love a girl’

    Stacey Solomon has stepped back from Loose Women and other high profile commitments, but the former X Factor star may have a very good reason for doing so

    Stacey Solomon has been gradually withdrawing from various high-profile commitments in recent months, sparking speculation about her future plans. The beloved star has been noticeably absent from Loose Women since announcing a hiatus from the ITV chat show last December – making just one appearance since. Furthermore, Stacey was conspicuously missing from the 25th anniversary portrait of the ITV show, which celebrated its current stars.

    The former X Factor contestant is also believed to have stepped back from her popular Channel 4 show Renovation Rescue and declared that she was leaving her role as brand ambassador for In The Style, a position she’s held since 2021, to concentrate on her family. And it’s possible that balancing her highly successful career with her bustling family life became too overwhelming, reports OK!.

    Stacey Solomon, Joe Swash and family at Pickle Cottage
    Stacey and Joe may be considering another little one, claims a source 
    Image:
    Instagram/@staceysolomon)

    Stacey and Joe hugging
    They say Stacey is acutely aware of how fast her babies are growing up 
    Image:
    No credit)No one can deny that Stacey’s house is a busy one. She shares Rex, five, Rose, three, and one year old Belle with former EastEnders actor Joe Swash, as well as Leighton, 12, and Zachary, 15, from previous relationships (Joe also has an 18 year old son, Henry, from a past relationship). Now, a source has claimed that devoted mum Stacey, the devoted mum, as she and Joe gear up to introduce their new reality show, Escape To Pickle Cottage – may have plans for expanding their brood.

    “Despite all her success, Stacey says being a mum is the best thing that has happened to her and she loves having such a big family, even though it can be hard work,” they revealed. “Belle is turning two soon, and she hates the fact that she’s no longer a baby and she is starting to get broody again. Both her and Joe would love baby number six at some point.”

    Stacey has previously, albeit jokingly at times, confessed to feeling broody – and with the family set to open their doors to a TV crew, it seems like an ideal moment for another addition to the clan. In January, the 34 year old caused a stir when she posted a heartwarming clip of her three year old son Rex helping little Belle take her first steps, captioned with ‘Why am I broody?’

    Stacey Solomon on Loose Women
    Stacey has noticeably stepped back from several roles – including as a popular panelist on Loose Women 
    Image:
    ITV)
    Back in May, the celeb shared her ultimate goal to leave television behind to be with her five kids, stating she only wants work that allows her to stay at home. And the insider reveals that with her eldest, Zach, hitting 16, she’s acutely conscious of the fleeting nature of time. “She is only taking on things that work for her as a mum now. Zach is now doing an apprenticeship – so she knows how quickly time goes and she just wants to be with her children as much as she can while they’re little.”

    They suggest that a new baby would be a seamless addition to her upcoming reality show. “She could continue to film while pregnant and then the new baby would fit right in with the show and viewers would love it.” The source says Joe, whose mother was a foster carer, is keen on fostering, but Stacey feels she’s not ready for that step yet and believes they haven’t completed their own family. Friends of the duo are reportedly bracing for a significant announcement come 2025.

    Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash in a beach selfie on holiday
    Stacey and Joe clearly adore kids 
    Image:
    Instagram)

    Stacey Solomon and her kids
    Stacey is a doting mum, and with Belle almost turning two, a source claims she’s ‘broody’ 
    Image:
    Instagram)“Friends are already predicting that Stacey announces a new baby next year, and she would love another little girl so she has three of each – the girls would all be so close growing up”, they revealed. “She also loves seeing how great Joe is as a girl dad. It brings tears to her eyes when he plays fairies and dolls and princesses with them and she wants more of that.”

    If Stacey and Joe, who have weathered the highs and lows of family life thus far, truly are contemplating welcoming another tot into their clan, it would be a delightful addition to a loving family – and would only enhance what is already set to be a thrilling peek behind the scenes of their lives at Pickle Cottage.

  • ITV Loose Women’s Olivia Attwood makes desperate plea after Liam Payne’s death

    ITV Loose Women’s Olivia Attwood makes desperate plea after Liam Payne’s death

    Olivia Attwood was one of the panellists on Thursday’s episode of Loose Women as she joined Kaye Adams, Penny Lancaster and Katie Piper to pay tribute to Liam Payne following his tragic death

    Loose Women’s Olivia Attwood Dack has issued a heartfelt plea to social media users in the wake of Liam Payne’s heartbreaking death.

    On the live broadcast of ITV’s daytime programme on Thursday (October 17), Olivia, alongside host Kaye Adams, Penny Lancaster and Katie Piper, honoured the late One Direction sensation who was tragically found deceased on Wednesday at a hotel in Buenos Aires.

    Kaye, 61, struck a sombre tone as she commenced the show with a tribute to the singer and shared her condolences for Liam’s loved ones. She then turned to Olivia, asking: “Did you cross paths with him over the years?” to which she confirmed encountering Liam “a couple of times”.

    The Loose Women
    The Loose Women expressed their sadness over the death of Liam Payne 
    Image:
    ITV)
    The 33 year old TV personality expressed her grief over Liam’s demise and implored the online community to ‘leave each other alone’. Reflecting on her memories, Olivia said: “I remember vividly the X-Factor journey, I was a fan of the band it’s so tragic.”

    She continued, revealing her thoughts: “The first thing of thought of this morning was the last couple of weeks my algorithm on social media has been very full of videos of him, people speculating, taking the mick – and whatever.

    “This is not be speculating around what’s happened but why can’t we just leave people alone? If someone is acting in a way that seems unusual, there is probably a reason and making fun of them for viral content is probably not the best approach.”

    Liam Payne has died aged 31
    Liam Payne has died aged 31 
    Image:
    SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
    Olivia remarked: “I feel like with social media it’s the best and worst of humanities on display and I think before posting things sometimes take a minute and think ‘why are you posting this?’”

    Tragedy struck as 31 year old Liam Payne died on Wednesday following a fall from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires’ Palermo district, Argentina, reports Birmingham Live.

    Authorities reported that the father-of-one tragically plummeted from the third floor into the inner courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel, where medical personnel later pronounced his death.

  • Exclusive: Loose Women’s Brenda Edwards plots Strictly appearance after cancer and death of son

    Exclusive: Loose Women’s Brenda Edwards plots Strictly appearance after cancer and death of son

    Loose Women’s co-host Brenda Edwards, 55, has opened up about life after cancer, losing her son to drugs and keeping a positive attitude

    Loose Women favourite Brenda Edwards is getting used to a new life, one in which cancer could return at any point. The chemo she needed to fight breast cancer in 2016 caused her early menopause. And in 2022 she suffered the devastating death of her music entrepreneur son Jamal, aged 31.

    The second she felt a new lump she headed to the hospital for tests, accompanied by fellow Loose Women star and Mirror agony aunt Coleen Nolan. Brenda, 55, says: “Once you’ve had it, you’re told that if there’s anything else, no matter how big or small, to flag it.

    A photo of Coleen Nolan and Brenda Edwards on TV programme Loose Women
    Brenda says how grateful she is for her friend, Coleen Nolan 
    Image:
    Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)“It’s nice to have someone like Coleen [Nolan] because she’s so funny. If you’re in a waiting room and thinking of what could be, Coleen is the perfect person to distract you and keep your mind off the worst.”

    Three of 59-year-old Coleen’s sisters, Bernie, Anne and Linda, have had breast cancer. Bernie died in July 2013, aged 52, and fellow Mirror columnist Linda, 65, is fighting secondary breast cancer which has spread to her brain.

    Thankfully, Brenda was given the all-clear and has been cancer-free for nine years. She joined Loose Women five years ago and soon became one of the show’s most enthusiastic and positive hosts.

    But her zest for life and her enthusiasm to take on new challenges inevitably stems from the tough times she has endured. She says: “Having cancer changes anybody, because you face a life of uncertainty, so it does make you appreciate life every day. I’m very grateful for what life brings me. I’ve always been a go-getter but now I’m even more so. If you don’t try, you’ll never know. You might succeed, so I’ll try almost anything.”

    One of Brenda’s current aims is a place on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. It was rumoured she was being considered for this series, although that may have clashed with her return as Mama Morton in a UK tour of award-winning musical Chicago.

    A photo of Brenda with her son Jamal Edwards
    Brenda with her son Jamal Edwards 
    Image:
    jamaledwards/Instagram)
    Brenda did appear on ITV’s Strictly The Real Full Monty to raise cancer awareness. She says: “They had a ­ballroom scene. It was fun but it was tiring. It was only a minute and I was exhausted. I’ve got two left feet, so I’d be more movement than dance.”

    Brenda’s warm-hearted nature means she has made close friends with many of her Loose Women co-stars, including Coleen, Charlene White, Ruth Langsford, Judi Love and Kelle Bryan. She hopes many will be able to see her during her stint in Chicago, which starts later this month until March.

    Set amid the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, it features classic songs such as All That Jazz and When You’re Good to Mama. Her co-stars are former Strictly dancer Kevin Clifton, 42, as Billy Flynn, and former Coronation Street actress Faye Brookes, 37, as Roxie Hart.

    Brenda, who lives in West London, found fame in 2005, finishing fourth in the second series of The X Factor, which was won by current Strictly star Shayne Ward, 40.

    Since then, she has had a successful musical theatre career, with roles in the UK tour of Hairspray, We Will Rock You in the West End and appearances at the London Coliseum and the Royal Festival Hall. She also released her debut album in 2011.

    Born in Bedfordshire to a Caribbean family, Brenda was raised by relatives following the tragic death of her parents in a car crash when she was four. She spent her childhood singing in a Pentecostal choir and, aged 18, sang at local nightclubs, weddings and funerals.

    But she had to take a full-time job to make ends meet and worked in accounts. After The X Factor ­showcased her soulful voice, she was signed up to join the West End cast of Chicago in the West End. She says: “It’s really nice to be back in the Chicago family.

    “I’m really glad that they asked me if I’d return. Mama Morton is a very stern keeper of the keys – she runs the jail. Am I anything like her? I wear my heart on my sleeve. I’m not as tough but I’m quite straight to the point.”

    Brenda is mum to singer-­songwriter Tanisha, and the two supported each other after the loss of Jamal, the founder of SB.TV whose pioneering music channel helped launch the likes of Ed Sheeran. Jamal died in February 2022 from a heart attack after taking cocaine and drinking alcohol.

    In August, Brenda marked what would have been his 34th birthday with a sweet message: “I know Jamal is celebrating his birthday today up above, and you can guarantee I will be doing the same.”

    Ed, 33, has said Jamal’s death forced him to kick the drug habit which he developed in his mid-20s. He has said: “I would never, ever, ever touch anything again, because that’s how Jamal died. And that’s just disrespectful to his memory to even go near.”

    Just like during the cancer scare, Coleen was also a rock for Brenda during her grief. The agony aunt recently told the Mirror about her surprise and pride at the way Brenda managed to go on. For now, that’s just by keeping busy.

    And she knows she has to take care of her own health. That’s why she’s even taking an air fryer on tour, rather than be tempted by unhealthy restaurant or hotel meals.

    She says: “Since my cancer I researched what I should eat. I was eating a lot of processed foods and not a lot of veg, so spinach is my best friend. I love broccoli, salmon and chicken, and I try to stay away from sugars and white wine and be sensible. Now I drink gin and tonic, which was Queen Elizabeth’s drink.”

    She admits being driven but insists: “I’m not a workaholic but there’s no point in doing a job if you’re not going to do it properly. “My whole family are like that. Yet you’ve got to know when to switch off, because all work and no fun makes you a very dull person.”

    For Chicago tour dates see chicagothemusical.com/uk-tour

  • Former One Direction star Liam Payne dies after balcony fall in Argentina

    Former One Direction star Liam Payne dies after balcony fall in Argentina

    Former One Direction star Liam Payne has died after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires.

    Local police said the 31-year-old singer fell from the third floor into the courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in the Palermo neighbourhood of Argentina’s capital, before medics confirmed his death.

    Pictures showed shocked fans gathering outside the hotel after police cordoned off the area, with forensic investigators in white protective suits and blue gloves seen entering and leaving.

    Fans were photographed lighting candles and leaving flowers at the side of the road in an impromptu vigil as they paid tribute to the music star.

    The Foreign Office confirmed it is in contact with authorities in Argentina “regarding reports of the death of a British man”. But a spokesman declined to comment any further, including on the identity of the man involved.

    In the hours before his death, Payne reportedly posted a video on Snapchat saying: “It’s a lovely day here in Argentina.”

    Payne formed boy band One Direction in 2010, alongside Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Harry Styles, after they individually auditioned for The X Factor. After becoming one of the biggest pop groups in the world, with five albums and four world tours, they went on indefinite hiatus in 2016.

    Among those paying tribute to Payne was former X Factor host Dermot O’Leary, who wrote on Instagram: “I remember him as a 14-year-old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing.

    “He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble.”

    Olly Murs, who appeared on The X Factor a year before One Direction, said in a post on Instagram that he was “lost for words”, adding that the pair shared “the same passions”.

    The Wanted star Max George said Payne had “supported me a lot” after the death of his bandmate Tom Parker from a brain tumour in March 2022.

    Payne previously said he struggled with alcoholism at the peak of his success with One Direction, describing hitting “rock bottom” to The Diary Of A CEO podcast host Steven Bartlett.

    He admitted his addiction to alcohol continued during the Covid pandemic, but in 2023 he posted a YouTube video confirming he was almost six months sober after nearly 100 days in a US rehab facility.

    Earlier this month, Payne attended bandmate Horan’s Argentinian concert alongside his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy.

    Payne, who was born in Wolverhampton, released his debut solo album LP1 in December 2019, which included the songs Polaroid, Familiar and Strip That Down featuring Quavo.

    The song was one of two tracks that reached the top 10 in the UK official charts, alongside For You with Rita Ora from the film Fifty Shades Freed – which the duo performed at the Brit Awards in 2018.

    Payne was in a high-profile relationship with Girls Aloud singer Cheryl between 2016 and 2018 and the couple had a son, Bear, in 2017.

    Payne first auditioned for The X Factor in 2008 when he was 14, singing Frank Sinatra’s Fly Me To The Moon, with judge Simon Cowell telling him to return to the ITV talent show two years later.

    In 2010, he impressed the judges with a rendition of Michael Buble’s Cry Me A River before being put with four other solo hopefuls at the boot camp stage of the competition – the group which later became One Direction.

    In 2012, the boy band won their first Brit Award for best British single for their debut track What Makes You Beautiful, before picking up the Brit global success award a year later.

    In 2014 and 2015 they also won best British video for Best Song Ever and You & I respectively.

    After Malik left the band, the quartet won best artist video for Drag Me Down in 2016. They picked up the same award a year later for History.

    In August 2023, Payne postponed his scheduled tour of South America after suffering a “serious kidney infection”.

    He said the infection was something “I wouldn’t wish on anyone” and he had been instructed by doctors to “rest and recover”.

    In October that year, he was banned from driving in the UK after admitting a speeding offence.

    The singer was reportedly travelling at 43mph in a 30mph zone and was banned from driving for six months, as well as paying a fine.

    In August this year, Payne was announced as a judge on a new Netflix show alongside former Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Rowland and The Pussycat Dolls star Nicole Scherzinger.

    The stars were to judge attempts to create a band, looking at the contestants’ chemistry as they formed groupings in the musical competition series.