Author: bang5

Prince William has reportedly been thinking more and more about his future plans for the monarchy – but there is one main player who is said not to feature in them

Prince Harry (Image: Getty Images)

The slimmed-down monarchy looks set to get even thinner – and it’s one royal who could really bear the brunt of the dwindling numbers. When Prince William eventually ascends to the throne, the ageing working royals may have well slowed down, with only his three children, it seems, that will one day join the ranks.

Therefore, it has long been said that his relatively young cousins, such as Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie and even Zara Tindall, could help plug the gap by helping out on an informal basis. It comes as sources close to William reportedly say he has been thinking about his plans for the future as he assesses what is important to him.

Harry with estranged brother Prince William (Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

But according to Jennie Bond, one key royal who once would have figured highly in these plans, but has no place at all now is his estranged brother Prince Harry.

And the former BBC royal correspondent told the Mirror : “I don’t think Harry figures in William’s plans at all. It is a very sad situation because Harry was his wingman and would have been the brother he could rely on when he takes on the very heavy responsibility of being King.

“Harry would have had an extremely senior role and been the sibling, friend, supporter and sounding board that the Princess Royal is now to her brother King Charles. It is a great loss for William, but one which I think he has now accepted.”

However, one cousin tipped to get a huge role is Zara Tindall, who could take on all royal horse racing matters, which Jennie said would be a stroke of genius from William.

She explained: “There will be so many demands on his time when he is King that I think it’s a brilliant idea – if the reports are to be believed – that he might hand over racing matters to Zara Tindall. Like her mother, she lives and breathes horses; she’s also extremely glamorous and well-liked and it would be a perfect fit.

Prince William with close cousin Zara Tindall at Royal Ascot (Image: (Image: Getty))

“I don’t think William or Catherine are particularly interested in the racing world, so it would work out well, although I’m sure they would still trot along to Ascot from time to time. They’d always be sure of a bit of fun and a giggle with Zara and Mike.”

In an interview many years ago, William once memorably said that he doesn’t lie awake at night thinking about his destiny. But Jennie added: “William wouldn’t be human if he hadn’t thought long and hard about his future role as King and how he will approach it. That much was apparent when he stated that he wanted to do his job ‘with a small r’. A tiny phrase, but full of meaning.

“Although he admired his grandmother hugely, and learned a great deal from her about the destiny which lies ahead of him, I think he will continue to build on his father‘s approach: being more than a figurehead or patron, but grappling instead with the nuts and bolts of social issues that need fixing and trying to help interested parties come up with practical solutions.

Prince William gives a speech on the opening day of London Climate Action Week(Image: PA)

“William is taking on even bigger social issues: homelessness, mental health and the environment. But he’s not just talking about them, he’s taking action. And he is full of optimism and positivity; striving always to make some impact, get things rolling – even though a complete solution may not yet be possible, it’s all a move in the right direction. Better to do something than nothing. And I think he will continue in this vein when he is King – as much as the role allows.”

But like most things, there is a fine balancing act to be struck, and Jennie believes this will be between him moving forward into the modern era, while at the same time retaining tradition.

She said: “I don’t think he is comfortable with all the pomp and pageantry, although I think he will retain the grandeur of great military occasions like Trooping the Colour. I cannot, though, see his coronation being anything like as grand and – let’s face it, frankly really rather bizarre – as that of his father or grandmother.

“He has to strike a balance, I suppose, between the monarchy being absolutely down with the kids, taking selfies and larking around with the crowds, and the dignity of the institution. But I think we will see a King who is immensely relatable – despite his wealth and elite status.

“He has said in the past if he cannot work to make some sort of difference in the world, then what’s the point of him? And I think he’s right. He has to be more than a figurehead, or a mouthpiece for the country in times of crisis or jubilation. He wants and needs to use his platform to make this country a better place to live.”

Vanessa Feltz is hosting a new show on Channel 5 after quitting This Morning. While she insists there’s no rivalry with ITV she urged people to take a ‘holiday’ from one show

Vanessa Feltz made a cheeky dig at her former ITV colleagues

Vanessa Feltz took a cheeky dig at ITV after leaving This Morning for a rival channel. The presenter is now fronting a new show for Channel 5, having left This Morning after three decades. Vanessa’s new show now clashes with ITV’s Loose Women and she made a cheeky dig at the expense of her former colleagues.

In a new interview, Vanessa – who kicked off her show this week – urged people to take a “little holiday” from Loose Women and instead tune into her show, as she insisted she missed This Morning “terribly”.

Speaking to Heart Bingo, she said: “I think there are plenty of viewers to go round. For every viewer who is immersed in This Morning, there’s somebody else who’s very happily watching Jeremy Vine and Storm Huntley. It’s not really either-or. I’m sort of hoping that Loose Women viewers might like a little holiday from them, maybe just for a couple of days or so!

Vanessa is now fronting her show with Channel 5(Image: Channel 5)

“I hope that they’ll be curious and lively-minded and switch over to have a look at me – at least to see what’s going on.

“And if they enjoy it, they can join me for lunch and stick around for the party.” However, Vanessa insisted she isn’t in a “passionate rivalry” with anyone. She added: “Lots of the Loose Women are my very dear friends,” insisting there was no bad blood between them.

Before starting her own show, Vanessa was a regular on This Morning – and said she would miss it “terribly”. “I really will miss This Morning terribly, but I obviously understand why I can’t do both at once. But knowing me, I would have squeezed in a quick This Morning and then rushed over on the back of a bike to do my own show on Channel 5. I would have been perfectly comfortable doing that, but I don’t think it’s considered best practise,” she added.

Vanessa made regular appearances on This Morning

When she announced her new show, Vanessa teased her programme would be “real, honest and unpredictable”.

“I cannot wait to get started on this sparkling adventure with Channel 5. This show is all about YOU – your stories, your opinions, your emotions, and your triumphs. Television’s never been so real, honest, or unpredictable. Life isn’t perfect, so let’s not pretend it is – let’s help each other out, have a giggle, and make every show a conversation worth having so kick off your shoes and come and join me for lunch, relax with a bit of me time and let’s have a ball!” she explained.

Federico Ruiz, Commissioning Editor of Channel 5, added: “We are thrilled to have signed Vanessa, an award-winning broadcaster and bona-fide national treasure, to our daytime line-up. Our audience love her, and there is nobody better for viewers to spend their lunchtimes with every single weekday.”

Denise Welch has divulged whether she’d ever leave Loose Women after over two decades on the show, and revealed how she really feels about her fellow panellists.

Denise Welch has divulged whether she’d ever leave Loose Women after over two decades on the show(Image: WireImage)

Denise Welch has revealed she’s not going anywhere when it comes to her slot on the Loose Women panel and says she ‘loves’ her fellow panellists.

The actress, 66, who has been a regular on the ITV daytime show since 2005, told Mirror, “I love being on the show, I did have a break for a few years but I love it right now. It fits into my lifestyle really well and I’ve no plans of leaving.

“I love catching up with the girls and we all support each other. Believe you me, If I didn’t get on with everybody then I wouldn’t be doing it, I’m at an age now where I don’t need to.”

Talking at the Royal Television Society awards, Denise continued, “I’ve been sharing my stories for over two decades now and I always believe that you have a responsibility on the show to share you opinion if you’ve got one.

Denise says she has no plans on leaving the ITV panel, which fits ‘perfectly’ into her lifestyle

“We’ve all gone through different things and we all support each other. I’m 67 this year and It’s the only show on television, I believe, that truly celebrates women and ageing.” She added with a laugh, “I’m quite gobby. My opinions aren’t going to change!”

It comes after Denise opened up about a toxic relationship she went through during an episode of Loose Women last week, which saw the panel celebrating the first anniversary of their Facing It Together campaign.

Talking about the relationship, without naming the partner, Denise said: “I fell in love with this incredibly charismatic man, very, very good-looking, and I thought that my whole life had aligned and this was the person for me.

The star lauded her fellow panellists for their support, admitting she’d leave if they didn’t get along

“Then, of course, you don’t realise what’s happening, so he started to chip, chip, chip away at my personality. Personality traits that I thought made me quite popular suddenly became detrimental, and he would say things like, ‘You know your friends aren’t laughing with you, they’re laughing at you.’

“You know, when you told that joke that they all laughed at, why did you tell that joke? It was rude. They were all rolling their eyes at each other,’ and you start to slowly believe.”

She also revealed how her partner’s dysfunction and jealousy played a huge role in the abuse.

When asked whether she was nervous about sharing her story on television, Denise confidently told Mirror: “No, I don’t get worried about that. I never name anyone and I’m used to being open.

“I actually had so many people messaging me afterwards on Instagram, it was a heartbreaking response because so many people related to what I was going through in coercive controlling relationships.

The business mogul announced that she would not be part of the BBC show’s next series earlier this month.

Sara Davies has admitted she was “getting to a breaking point” as she revealed the reason she finally decided to quit Dragons’ Den.

The businesswoman, 40, announced that she would be quitting the BBC show on March 7 in a statement on Instagram, revealing that her business was her big priority this year.

“That’s why I’ve taken the decision to step away from the Den for now, to focus on my own business, which was my first baby,” she said at the time. “So I won’t be filming with the team this year for the next series.”

Many fans were devastated by the news, announcing that Sara was their favourite Dragon and the show would not be the same without her. However, they congratulated her on making strides with her business and wished her well in her new endeavours.

Sara Davies opened up about the reason why she quit Dragon’s Den on Loose Women today(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

The business mogul was welcomed onto Loose Women today to talk about her future away from Dragon’s Den, and ended up providing a little more insight into why she felt it was the right time for her to leave the show behind.

Sara explained that there is a lot more work that goes into being a Dragon behind the scenes than fans realise, and she did not feel able to prioritise that anymore.

She added : “If it’s not actually the filming, it’s that there’s up to a dozen new businesses – they have me on Whatsapp, then they want me to come to board meetings. I want to do it. The problem is, I can’t half do something.

“I’m either in or I’m not in. When I’m in I want to be a big part of their life and a big part of their business. I knew it just wasn’t feasible this year – it was getting to a breaking point.”

The businesswoman admitted that she was ‘getting to a breaking point’ juggling her responsibilities(Image: BBC/Simon Pantling)

Now Sara is looking forward to focusing on the crafting company she launched in 2005 – which sells sewing products, art supplies, and craft storage items to an international market.

On top of that, Sara has been busy promoting her new book, The 6 Minute Entrepreneur. She did a book tour ahead of its launch on Thursday, March 13, and has responded warmly to the positive reviews she received from readers

It has been rumoured that The Apprentice star Karren Brady might step into Sara’s shoes once she is gone, as Card Player have named her the favourite to become the businesswoman’s replacement.

Viewers who are dreading watching Dragon’s Den without Sara do not need to worry just yet, as she has already filmed the second half of this year’s season of the show, and promised loyal audiences they will be able to see her on screen once more.

Prince Harry is reportedly set to invite his father the King to the next Invictus Games in Birmingham, which takes place in two years’ time – but one royal expert has sent a warning

Prince Harry and his father King Charles(Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Prince Harry has posed a direct challenge to King Charles with his latest ‘olive branch’ move, according to an expert.

It has been claimed that Harry plans to invite the King and other royals to his next Invictus Games in Birmingham, with email invitations set to be sent later this month. It would be the strongest indication yet that the Duke of Sussex wants to bring his family back together.

The next Invictus Games is being held at the NEC in Birming from July 10 to 17, 2027, and it is claimed that sending invitations soon would give Charles and the rest of the royals the best chance of attending. Just weeks ago, Harry revealed that he is no longer speaking to his father, but admitted that he would like reconciliation with him and his older brother, Prince William, amid their bitter feud.

Harry and Meghan at the last Invictus Games in Vancouver (Image: (Image: Getty))

But according to royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams, if the King does indeed receive an invitation to the Games, it poses a huge dilemma. He told the Express: “He [King] is Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Invictus is a major military charity. Also, as head of state, he is a symbol of national unity. If he accepts, he would be putting duty above what obviously is a painful public rift between him and his family and the Sussexes. It will be argued that that is his job.

“However, it might involve extremely serious problems for the Royal Family, who rightly do not trust the Sussexes. If the King accepted it, this would involve public contact with Harry and almost certainly Meghan and his grandchildren, Archie and Lili.”

He continued: “The invitation to attend Invictus represents a direct challenge to King Charles. Much will hinge on how he replies and what subsequently happens.”

The rift between the Sussexes and the royal family opened significantly following their interview with Oprah Winfrey, during which they alleged a member of the family was concerned about their son Archie’s skin tone before he was born.

Harry with his two children(Image: Instagram/meghan

Then the duke claimed in his controversial memoir, Spare, that William physically attacked him, that the King put his own interests above Harry’s and that Kate and William were jealous of Meghan.

But Harry’s decision to speak out appears to have worsened the chances of an end to his estrangement. There are suggestions that the King, who is still being treated for cancer, and the Prince of Wales will fear more than ever that any conversation with the duke would end up in the public domain.

Meanwhile, it remains to be seen when the games are held in the UK in just over two years if Harry will bring his wife Meghan and children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet with him.

Last month, Harry lost his appeal against the dismissal of his High Court claim against the Home Office over the decision of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec) that he should receive a different degree of protection when in the UK.

Speaking at the time, he said the Court of Appeal decision means it is now “impossible” for him to bring Meghan and their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet back to the UK safely.

In an interview with the BBC, he said: “I can’t see a world in which I will be bringing my wife and children back to the UK at this point and the things they are going to miss is everything. I love my country and always have done…despite what some people in that country have done.

He continued: “So I miss the UK. I miss parts of the UK. Of course, I do. I think it’s really quite sad that I won’t be able to show my children my homeland.” A spokesman for Invictus said: “No formal invitations have been issued as preparations are in the early stages.”

During his visit to the NATO summit at The Hague, Donald Trump met with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands – and many spotted a peculiar gesture by Maxima

A senior royal has been accused of mocking Donald Trump as they made an appearance together on live TV. The US president had been attending a NATO summit in The Hague, and during his time in the Netherlands, he was invited to stay at the Huis ten Bosch Palace, one of the Dutch King Willem-Alexander’s official residences.

After his stayover at the palace, the US president joined the King and his wife Queen Maxima for a photocall, which was broadcast live on TV. Trump stood in between the royal couple for a photo and gave the thumbs up as he told the photographer: “That’s the picture we want!” The King then asked Trump: “You slept well.

Donald Trump with the Netherlands’ King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima(Image: AP)

To which the president replied: “It was great.” A photographer then shouts: “Thank you all very much” and Trump adds: “Thank you very much”. And in an incredible moment, Maxima looks at the president before turning to the camera and making a gesture with her lips, which some have taken as her mocking him.

Trump joined world leaders including Prime Minster Keir Starmer for the NATO summit yesterday, where it was agreed more money would be put towards military spending.

However, the Dutch King and Queen aren’t the only royal couple to have an encounter with the president. Yesterday, it was reported that Trump is to make a full state visit to the UK later this year as King Charles and the US president’s busy diaries mean they are unable to meet informally first over the summer.

The Times reported that Keir Starmer has gone against the wishes of the King by bringing Mr Trump’s “bells and whistles” state visit forward to September. The newspaper said the Palace had been hoping for a more leisurely approach building towards the state visit, amid concern over Mr Trump’s threat to make Canada the US’s 51st state.

Many accused Maxima of mocking Trump

Charles, who is King of Canada, suggested in a letter personally delivered to Mr Trump by Sir Keir in the Oval Office in February that they might meet at Balmoral or Dumfries House Scotland first before the much grander state visit.

But it is understood that, although all options were explored, there were logistical challenges surrounding an informal visit, with complexities in both the King and Mr Trump’s diaries meaning a private meeting was not possible over the course of the summer months.

The diary issues come despite the King heading to Scotland for his summer break each year, and Mr Trump being expected to visit his new, second golf course in Aberdeenshire when it opens this summer.

King Charles is set to welcome Trump to the UK in September (Image: PA)

It is said that the logistical reasons why the private meeting cannot precede the state visit are understood and appreciated by all parties. Formal planning for the official state visit has now begun.

Precedent for second-term US presidents who have already made a state visit is usually tea or lunch with the monarch at Windsor Castle, as was the case for George W Bush and Barack Obama. But Mr Trump is being treated with an unprecedented second state visit for a US president, this time at Windsor.

The Times suggested Sir Keir was hoping to prioritise his attempt to curry favour with Mr Trump and capitalise on the president’s fascination with the royal family.

Asked if No 10 had overruled the King over the visit, a Downing Street spokesman said: “That’s untrue. During his visit to the White House in February the Prime Minister was delighted to extend His Majesty the King’s invite for a historic second state visit to the president and first lady and the president was pleased to accept. Of course, the Prime Minister looks forward to welcoming President Trump.”

Football icon David Beckham was taken to the hospital as Victoria Beckham shared an update on social media

David Beckham is recovering in hospital as loving wife Victoria Beckham shared a snap of him lying in a hospital bed, with his arm in a sling.

“Get well soon, Daddy,” she wrote over the snap of him smiling while wearing a hospital gown. She also gave him a friendship bracelet made with white beads to form ‘Get Well Soon’. The couple have yet to reveal what happened to the former England star.

However, it has since been reported that Sir David underwent secret surgery to repair a broken wrist that he sustained 22 years ago – during a friendly football match against South Africa in 2003. A recent x-ray reportedly showed a screw, which was used at the time, embedded in his forearm after it failed to dissolve properly.

After the game more than two decades ago, which saw him fall awkwardly, he was substituted early in the second half and was taken to the hospital.

David is recovering in the hospital

David recently revealed his long-running career left him with multiple injuries and years of “wear and tear”. He said: “Certain parts of my body were a real mess.”

David’s injury comes amid a family feud with eldest son Brooklyn Beckham and his wife, Nicola Peltz. Brooklyn, 26, and Nicola, 30, have made headlines in recent weeks over speculation of a ‘feud’ with his family, including his parents David, 50, and Victoria, 51. Brooklyn and Nicola have failed to show to recent big events with the Beckham clan – including David and Victoria’s birthday celebrations. Meanwhile, he’s also failed to acknowledge or pay tribute to David and Victoria as they marked recent milestones – including Sir David’s recent knighthood announcement.

However, Brooklyn has been vocal on his adoration for his wife. Expressing his love for Nicola, whom he tagged, Brooklyn teased in the caption that she’s his world. He wrote “my” alongside an emoji depicting the globe. Beside a heart emoji, he also commented over the photo: “My absolute angel.”

A few hours later, he returned to his page to share a message to David’s mother Sandra. He marked his grandmother’s birthday with a post that included a photo of him beside her. Brooklyn wrote: “Happy birthday nanny xx love you so much.”

He even got a ‘get well soon’ bracelet
It is thought to have marked him reaching out for the first time to his family on social media. Meanwhile, David shared a gushing post of his own to celebrate his mother’s birthday. He even gave Brooklyn a nod as he refused to give into the recent slew of social media digs and snubs from his son.

The caption of the post also mentioned David’s son Brooklyn, despite the pair allegedly falling out.

David captioned the tribute post: “Happy birthday mum we love you so much I hope u have the best day Thank you for always being there for us all Love you x @sandra_beckham49 @lynnebeckhambriggs1972 @jo_jo_beckham_ @victoriabeckham @brooklynpeltzbeckham @romeobeckham @cruzbeckham #HarperSeven.”

David and Victoria are said to be feuding with eldest son Brooklyn and wife Nicola ( 
Image:
Instagram)Brooklyn has snubbed many big family occasions in the last few months, with him and Nicola not showing up to celebrate Victoria’s 51st birthday or David’s milestone 50th birthday celebrations in Paris and London.

They also remained silent since the news that the former England player has finally been awarded his long-sought-after knighthood.

However, the hot sauce enthusiast made sure to wish Nicola’s father, Nelson, a happy birthday in a sweet post shared on his Stories this week.

“Happy birthday, Nelson, we love you,” he simply wrote.

EastEnders have confirmed that Karen Henthorn is reprising her role as Nigel’s wife Julie Bates this summer – 27 years after she originally left the BBC soap

Karen Henthorn is reprising her role as Julie Bates(Image: BBC)

Karen Henthorn is set to reprise her role as Julie Bates this summer, EastEnders have confirmed. Julie was last seen on the Square in 1997, and is set to return as her husband Nigel Bates’ (Paul Bradley) dementia worsens.

When Nigel returned late last year, he told everyone he had separated from Julie. Later, he admitted that he didn’t want to become a burden to his wife, as he decided to leave to deal with his dementia alone. Viewers have seen Phil Mitchell looking after his friend, however, things have taken a heartbreaking turn as he struggles to cope with Nigel’s deteriorating condition alone.

As Kat saw Phil struggling earlier this week, she told him he needed to call his wife Julie. Although Phil was initially reluctant to go against Nigel’s wishes, it looks like Kat may have persuaded him, as Julie’s return has now been confirmed.

Karen has already started filming alongside Paul(Image: BBC)

It’s been 27 years since Karen last filmed on set – when Julie and Nigel moved to Scotland to start a new life together.

She says it’s been “delightful” to reunite with Paul Bradley. “It’s very surreal to be back in Albert Square after 27 years and working with the delightful Paul Bradley again – it’s scary how fast the time has gone!” she said.

“Julie has got some awful surprises ahead of her after the initial relief she feels to discover Nigel is still alive. It’s been great to film with Paul and Steve (McFadden), who are such lovely actors, as Julie discovers Nigel’s dementia diagnosis and why he chose to hide it from her.”

Speaking on Julie’s return to the Square, Executive Producer Ben Wadey said: “We are delighted to have Karen Henthorn returning to reprise her role as Julie, who arrives looking for Nigel.

Karen will be making her return to the Square after 27 years away(Image: BBC)

“Julie hasn’t seen Nigel in almost two years and is unaware of his diagnosis and reasons for leaving, so her arrival will pose questions for the pair of them.”

Despite last being seen on the Square almost three decades ago, Julie’s voice was heard earlier this year, as Nigel listened to a voice mail from his wife. Julie’s voice could be heard saying: “Nigel, it’s Julie again. I don’t know if you got my last message or…

“Listen, Nigel, I promise I’m not cross, whatever reason you walked out and disappeared, I just really need to know if you’re alright mate.”

It’s not yet been confirmed when exactly Julie will appear onscreen, but as Karen has started filming, fans can expect to see her in the coming weeks.

How will Nigel react to her return?

London, UK – Oscar-winning acting legend Dame Emma Thompson has ignited a firestorm of controversy with a sensational call for sex to be officially available on the NHS, declaring it “part of our health plan” and “so good for you.” Her provocative statement, made at a screening of her new film Good Luck to you, Leo Grande, has sent shockwaves across the nation, sparking a furious debate among health experts, public figures, and everyday Brits alike.

Thompson’s comments, stemming from her character’s journey as a widow hiring a young sex worker for a “sexual awakening” in the film, have pushed the boundaries of public discourse, prompting questions about the role of pleasure in public health and the very definition of well-being in modern society.

The Provocative Prescription: “Sex on the NHS!”

 

Speaking candidly at the film event, Dame Emma Thompson left no room for ambiguity. “You need sex because it’s part of our health plan,” she asserted. “It really should be on the NHS, it’s so good for you.” The bold proposal immediately polarized opinion, splitting commentators into camps of enthusiastic agreement, cautious skepticism, and outright dismissal.

The idea of a state-funded “prescription for pleasure” conjures images that range from revolutionary to absurd. While some might scoff, Thompson’s stance forces a re-evaluation of how society views sexual health beyond mere reproduction or disease prevention.

 

Panel Plunge: Enthusiastic Calls vs. Cautionary Tales

 

The proposition was met with a spectrum of reactions from a panel of public figures. Initial responses, like Denise’s enthusiastic “that’s what the doctor ordered, yeah!” seemed to echo Thompson’s sentiment. Denise elaborated, “I think sex is good for you if you like it,” revealing a personal philosophy of separating sex from love, a “man’s attitude” that allows for a “very important” role for intimacy within a loving relationship, but also freedom when not hurting anyone. She acknowledged that not everyone shares this desire, noting friends with “zero desire” for sex after past relationships ended, highlighting the deeply personal nature of sexual needs.

However, the conversation quickly delved into the complexities, moving beyond simplistic endorsements. Kelly, while acknowledging the health benefits, questioned the helpfulness of Thompson’s blanket statement. “It can also be bad for you though, can’t it?” she mused, raising a crucial point about the darker side of desire.

The Dark Side of Desire: Toxic Relationships and False Comfort

 

Kelly powerfully articulated the potential pitfalls of an uncritical focus on sex. She described scenarios where individuals remain trapped in “toxic relationship[s]” or outright “disaster[s]” simply “because the sex is amazing.”

“You stay there because of that part of it and not because it’s you’re connected on any other level, like everything about it is wrong but cuz the sex is good,” Kelly explained, highlighting the detrimental impact such situations can have on one’s life. This stark warning served as a potent counterpoint to the idea that all sex is inherently good, emphasizing that context, connection, and emotional well-being are paramount. A physical act, however pleasurable, cannot compensate for fundamental relational dysfunction, and indeed, can exacerbate it.

 

Beyond the Act: The Call for Intimacy and Connection

 

Adding another layer of depth to the debate, Janet, reflecting on her generation’s experience with “the pill,” noted the shift in societal attitudes towards sex. While acknowledging the liberation she personally experienced (“I’ve had a lot of fun in my time”), she argued that modern society has become “too hung up on how much sex, how who you’re doing it with, how you’re doing it and what your gender is and everything else.”

Janet passionately advocated for a return to fundamentals: “Instead of that we should be focused more on intimacy and connection because… that is the most important thing in any relationship is feeling comfortable with the person you are with and having a connection.” Her words resonated with Kelly’s observation that sex within a “not a good relationship” can be profoundly unsatisfying or even damaging. The consensus among these panelists was clear: the narrow focus on sex itself is “too slim”; it should be “a kind of broader sort of healthy connection thing.”

The NHS Waiting List Nightmare (and the Pressure Cooker of Modern Sex)

 

The practical implications of Emma Thompson’s proposal also sparked a dose of British humour and biting social commentary. The idea of “sex on the NHS” immediately conjured images of the notorious healthcare waiting lists. “You’d be on a waiting [list]!” quipped one panelist. “It won’t be a spontaneous thing, love, you’ll be waiting for that phone call or that letter that arrives after the appointment!”

The absurd image of diligently shaving legs, getting “all ready,” only for an NHS sex appointment to be “cancelled” and rescheduled for “next week,” highlighted the impracticality of such a proposition in a system already stretched to breaking point. The panel further poked fun at the bureaucratic possibilities: “Can you imagine the options as well? Press one!”

Beyond the laughter, a serious point emerged about the immense pressure permeating modern discussions around sex. “There’s so much pressure on people now,” it was observed. “You can’t read a newspaper or go online without reading how to have better sex in middle age, how to have better sex at 70.” This constant barrage of advice and expectation creates an environment where sex feels like a performance metric rather than a natural, intimate expression. The plea was made for society to “give it a break” and perhaps, as one panelist playfully suggested, focus on “how to grow better carrots” instead.

Dame Emma Thompson’s bold call for “sex on the NHS” has certainly achieved its goal of sparking conversation. While the idea provides a “great headline,” the ensuing debate, rich with personal experience and nuanced perspectives, quickly revealed its “simplistic” nature. The national discourse has shifted from a mere bodily function to a deeper exploration of connection, intimacy, and the potentially detrimental aspects of separating physical acts from emotional well-being. Ultimately, the consensus suggests that genuine health and happiness are found not in a medical prescription for sex, but in the complex, often messy, but always vital landscape of healthy human relationships.

London, UK – A seismic shift is underway within the British monarchy, as explosive new reports reveal Prince William is meticulously planning a future where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will have absolutely no role – a plan so decisive it will involve stripping them of their titles and banishing them from the royal fold entirely. This isn’t merely an act of passive omission, but an “active” and deliberate erasure, fueled by William’s “hatred for Meghan” and “complete disgust” at his own brother.

The extraordinary depth of this rift, which has been simmering for years, has reached a critical boiling point. Insiders suggest there is “no way back” for the Sussexes, painting a grim picture of their future under King William’s reign.

 

The Royal Death Knell: Titles Stripped, Banished Forever

 

The New York Post recently hinted at a future where Harry and Meghan would be sidelined. However, sources close to the Palace paint a far more brutal reality. “It will be active,” a commentator revealed, “it won’t just be ‘I’m ignoring this,’ it will be: ‘your titles are stripped, you are gone, you are banished.’”

This drastic measure extends beyond just Harry and Meghan themselves. Shockingly, their children, Archie and Lilibet, will also lose their HRH titles. While the official reason given will be to “slim down the monarchy,” the underlying truth, according to the same source, is a visceral “personal vengeance.” William’s “hatred for Meghan is overwhelming,” and his “complete disgust at his own brother is actually something that probably eats away at him even more.”

The animosity runs so deep that Prince William allegedly “doesn’t even want Harry at his coronation.” This detail, more than any other, lays bare “how far things have fallen” between the once inseparable brothers.

 

Red Lines Crossed: Catherine’s Unforgivable Attack

 

The point of no return, it seems, was Harry’s brutal attack on Catherine, the Princess of Wales, in his tell-all memoir, Spare. “Prince William set Harry these very very clear red lines, and he crossed every single one of them,” an observer stated. “The one for him that was so personal was Catherine. It was like: ‘do not come for my wife’ in Spare, and what did he do? He came for Catherine. And so, there’s no going back.”

Prince William is described as a “very strong-minded guy,” someone you “don’t want to mess with” or “cross.” While he is “actually a very kind and caring person,” beloved by his loyal staff who “respect this guy,” he can also be “very tough, very fiery.” Harry, despite having “so many chances,” chose to throw them “all away,” culminating in the unforgivable breach concerning Catherine. The recent health crisis involving the Princess of Wales has only intensified William’s protective instincts, overshadowing past dramas with Harry and likely hardening his stance. During Catherine’s recovery, William shouldered the burden of being the “main caregiver to the three children” while also managing significant royal duties due to King Charles’s own health issues.

Harry’s Delusion: A Royal Role for California Teens?

 

Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of this unfolding drama is Prince Harry’s alleged profound delusion. He “genuinely believes that he can raise his two children Archie and Lily in the United States, say that it’s far too unsafe for them to ever return to the United Kingdom,” effectively using them as a pawn, leaving King Charles with “no relationship with two out of his five grandchildren.”

Yet, incredibly, Harry supposedly “genuinely believe[s] that they are going to have a royal role.” He has even “briefed to the left-wing Guardian newspaper that he wants to leave that option open for Archie and Lily that one day they could just walk in as like these Californian teenagers at 18 years old and say: ‘Give me a job, William.’” This scenario, sources confirm, is unequivocally “not going to happen.”

There is speculation that Archie and Lilibet themselves might one day resent their parents’ choices. “Eventually these two will move as far away from Harry and Megan as possible,” one royal commentator predicted. “If I were them, I would grow up and I’d think: ‘Oh my god, like you stole the opportunity for me to live history, you stole the opportunity for me to meet and spend time with the greatest monarch that has ever lived in Queen Elizabeth II.’”

Harry’s claims of insecurity in the UK, preventing his children’s return, are dismissed as “pathetic,” especially given his own alleged appearance “wired” and “cruising up and down a very dangerous street in central London” during a past incident.

 

The Collapsing Kingdom of Sussex: Media Allies Abandon Ship

 

Further compounding the Sussexes’ woes is the devastating collapse of their last remaining loyal media allies in the United States. For years, People magazine and US Weekly had consistently championed Harry and Meghan, serving as their key conduits to the American public.

However, in a shocking turn of events over the past two weeks, both publications have “turned on Harry and Megan.” People magazine recently featured a prominent pro-Kate cover, declaring “she’s poised and she looks amazing, she’s the queen in waiting.” Just today, US Weekly followed suit with a pro-William cover, subtly highlighting his unwavering focus on his kingly duties, starkly contrasting with Harry’s perceived inaction since moving to the US.

“I find it really fascinating that even the media allies that they once had have had to realize sort of like: ‘Oh god, we backed the wrong horse here,’” a media observer noted. This pivot signals a crushing blow to the Sussexes’ carefully cultivated image. “Harry and Megan are radioactive, everything they touch turns to crap,” a stark assessment, even as Netflix reportedly continues to try and push their career.

 

William’s Rise, Harry’s Stagnation

 

While Harry’s life appears “completely stuck in the past” due to a lack of meaningful projects and past struggles with “drink and drug addiction,” Prince William’s trajectory is firmly forward. William’s recent focus has been on his family and duty, particularly during Catherine’s serious health challenge. His life has visibly “gone on,” busy with Catherine, their children, royal engagements, and supporting his ailing father, King Charles.

William and Catherine currently boast the “highest popularity and favorability in all of these polls.” Their social media videos garner “millions and millions of views,” attracting a new generation of admirers who are “just falling in love with them as characters in the public sphere.”

The future for Harry and Meghan, however, appears bleak. Stripped of their titles, estranged from family, and abandoned by former media cheerleaders, their alleged “royal role” remains a fantasy, shattered by the resolute will of the future King. The chasm between the brothers is now a gaping, unbridgeable divide, ensuring that under King William, the “Fab Four” will remain a distant, fractured memory.