Author: bang5

Following his success on Strictly Come Dancing in 2023, Bobby Brazier received new opportunities and has decided now is the right time to leave EastEnders

Bobby Brazier is set to depart from EastEnders after a four-year stint. The 22-year-old actor and model, known for his role as Freddie Slater, has attracted numerous offers following his runner-up finish on Strictly Come Dancing in 2023. His exit from Albert Square is scheduled for later this year.

An EastEnders spokesperson confirmed, “We can confirm that Bobby Brazier will be leaving EastEnders, and we wish him all the best for the future.”

According to a source close to the show: “Bosses recently met with Bobby to discuss a potential storyline, but Bobby felt this was the right moment to explore new ventures beyond the series.

“The timing aligned perfectly for both parties. Although his final scenes are some time away, the character has enjoyed a strong run, and now is the time for Bobby to pursue fresh opportunities while EastEnders bids farewell to Freddie Slater,” they told The Sun.

Bobby plays Freddie Slater on the BBC soap ( 
Image:
BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Bobby’s exit from EastEnders coincides with a wave of bold casting choices by new executive producer Ben Wadey, who is bringing back fan favourites like Michelle Ryan (Zoe Slater), Jake Wood (Max Branning), and Max Bowden (Ben Mitchell). Meanwhile, Lacey Turner is stepping away from her role as Stacey Slater for a break.

Since joining the soap as Freddie Slater in 2022, Bobby has gone on to win a National Television Award for Rising Star and even appeared in the Paramount+ drama Curfew while continuing his work on EastEnders.

Clearly thriving in his craft, Bobby recently shared: “I love my job. I love being on EastEnders and I love modelling. But I’ll probably take a break at some point. Just travel, get inspired, meet new people.”

Bobby joined EastEnders in 2022 ( 
Image:
BBC)
Reflecting on his journey, the once-reserved 22-year-old admitted that fame hasn’t always sat comfortably with him – especially during his Strictly Come Dancing run, where he initially “wanted to get voted off.”

Bobby connects his discomfort in the spotlight to the loss of his mother, Jade Goody, when he was just five years old. “I don’t want to be famous. Maybe I did when I was younger. Now I just want to act,” he said.

Freddie’s early storyline saw him mistakenly believe Billy Mitchell was his dad, confronting him swiftly and emotionally – a debut that showed how Brazier can “blow us away” with raw emotion.

He then embarked on a heartfelt journey with ADHD representation. One scene of Freddie revisiting past school trauma by confronting an old teacher received acclaim. Fans praised the depth of his emotional portrayal, showing how the character’s grief and anger were believable both on and off-screen.

Bobby is set to leave the soap after four years ( 
Image:
BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)In a powerful 2023 arc, Freddie defended Stacey Slater from a violent assault attempt by Theo Hawthorne. He attacked Theo with an iron – echoing Little Mo’s past – delivering a performance that had audiences in tears and earned widespread praise.

Most recently, Freddie uncovered the traumatic truth that his biological father is Graham Foster – his mother’s assailant. The plot reveals Freddie’s emotional turmoil and determination as he seeks out Graham at a car dealership.

In emotional scenes that followed, he decided firmly to cut ties with Graham, leaving many viewers deeply moved.

Those who pay the fee will be banned from taking their own selfies, asking for autographs or even giving gifts to Sir David

Speaking about the offer, one disgruntled fan said: ‘Lets just say, I wouldn’t describe it as lovely jubbly’

Only Fools and Horses fans are being asked to pay up to £550 to spend “a moment” with Sir David Jason.

The Del Boy star, 85, will pose for a picture as part of the deal at a two-day convention at a hotel in Milton Keynes this October. But unlike his wide-boy character, fans will be unable to avoid VAT, as the venue is cashless, and there will be no money back and no guarantee for ticket holders if they suddenly can’t make it.

Those who do turn up will be banned from taking their own selfies, asking for autographs or even giving gifts to Sir David. A disgruntled fan last night said: “Lets just say, I wouldn’t describe it as lovely jubbly.”

Sir David’s character Del Boy remains much-loved by fans decades after the first episode (Image: Comic Relief via Getty Images)

Details of the money-spinner emerged after Sir David griped last year how he was “slightly upset” at being best known for playing Derek Trotter. The offer comes 12 months after the Mirror reported how organisers of last year’s convention were charging at least £325 for tickets to meet the star.

A cheaper bronze package for this year’s event is available for £100-a-person, which will not include the chance to meet Sir David. Buyers will be able to watch an on stage talk with the star and director Tony Dow and are promised an “opportunity to meet other star guest actors” from the show.

But if they want to get their autographs, further charges will apply. A silver package is being sold at £350, which will allow fans the chance to get one 8×6 picture, described as “FREE”, with Sir David.

Sir David posed with fans at a previous Only Fools and Horses convention(Image: Ghelani Studios Event Photograph / SWNS)

The £450 gold package offers the same perks, plus “Ltd Edt Convention Montage personally signed by Sir David Jason (before the Convention and given to you upon arrival at Registration)”, “central seating location in the ballroom” and being “amongst the first tables called up to meet David Jason”

Those who buy the £550 platinum ticket are further promised “VIP Seating – front row table with unobstructed view!” and “1 x FREE ticket to the Saturday Night Karaoke (includes evening meal)”. Fans that do get to meet Sir David will do so in a mock-up of Del Boy’s flat inside Mandela House.

The website says: “Eligible ticket holders will finally have their ‘Moment with Sir David Jason’, posing for a photograph in the Trotter Flat, as well as all attendees having the chance to meet the other guest actors and add their autograph to your collection!

The TV legend appeared on stage at last weekend’s British Soap Awards (Image: ITV/Shutterstock)

“We kindly request no gifts are to be given to Sir David Jason as this will take up all of the allocated time for your photo.

“Due to time constraints, Sir David will not be signing any items across the Convention weekend. We kindly ask you do not bring anything to attempt Sir David to sign as it will not be permitted. We will have staff on call to ensure this in fairness to everyone.”

“There will be NO ‘Selfies’ at the event with Sir David Jason. Selfies are left to the discretion of the other guest actors, although most are very happy to pose for a photograph if asked politely.

Only Fools and Horses, which also starred Nicholas Lyndhurst and Buster Merryfield, remains one of the country’s most revered comedy programmes

“We do not charge for a ‘selfie’! Crew Members will be sat with each actor and happy to assist with the taking of your photo. If your ticket(s) do not include a signed photo / mount, ticket holders are able to purchase a signed Convention Photo / Mount subject to availability across the weekend.

“There are no in person autograph opportunities across the weekend with Sir David Jason. The convention’s website adds: “We are delighted to return with the Karaoke on the Saturday Night. It will commence around 7pm and finish by 12pm (midnight).

“Purchasing a Karaoke ticket includes entry to the karaoke and an evening meal (hot buffet selection chosen by the venue). You must ensure that you are attending the Convention on either day to be able to attend the Karaoke.

“NO SELFIES / AUTOGRAPHS will be signed by any actors who attend the Karaoke – please allow them to enjoy their evening. Other guest actors in attendance WILL be signing any items of your choice including Props and Van Doors.”

Paddy McGuinness revealed his surprising celebrity crush when appearing alongside Vernon Kay on Gogglebox – but Vernon’s confession led to him having a change of heart

Paddy McGuinness told Vernon Kay his celebrity crush(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Just Eat)

Paddy McGuinness has revealed his unexpected celebrity crush. The funnyman and former Top Gear host, 51, made the shock confession during an episode of Celebrity Gogglebox.

Paddy was appearing on the popular Channel 4 reality TV show alongside pal Vernon Kay. The pair were watching an episode of Celebrity Bridge when Countdown star Rachel Riley appeared on the screen.

It was then that Paddy confessed to the maths whizz being the crush “he wasn’t supposed to have”. He blurted out: “There’s something about Rachel Riley. I don’t know what it is. You know when you have like a celebrity crush that you’re not supposed to have.”

Paddy admitted he had a crush on Rachel Riley(Image: Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty I)

And Vernon pointed out one detail that he thought would turn Paddy off the blonde haired star. “She’s a United fan,” the radio host told his mate.

“Oh I’ve gone right off her!” a shocked Paddy responded. His confession came as it was claimed his ex-wife Christine McGuinness had exchanged flirty texts with Dan Osborne.

The conversations weren’t said to be romantic, but it was reported the duo comforted each other as they dealt with their marriage troubles.

Christine and Paddy split in 2022 after 11 years of marriage. They continued to live together to co-parent their three children.

Dan, meanwhile, recently went on a make-or-break holiday with wife Jacqueline Jossa. The couple who tied the knot in 2017 announced they were splitting in March after months of speculation. Despite their joint statement they appeared to be willing to give things another go.

Christine and Paddy were married for 11 years(Image: Getty Images)

It’s thought Christine and Dan’s exchange came as they found solace in each other’s situation and formed a stronger bond. They had first met in 2019 and are said to have sporadically stayed in touch in the years that followed.

A source told the Sun earlier this week: “They stayed in touch sporadically and would bump into each other at events and their messages got pretty flirty. Some were seen by mutual friends.

“She would call him ‘D’ in texts and it became an open secret among their circles. There is no suggestion anything sexual happened, but it’s fair to say there was a spark between them.”

The insider insisted: “She is absolutely adamant nothing sexual happened between them. She also was 100 per cent single at the time and could chat to anyone she wanted.”

Former TOWIE star Dan, 33, was also adamant there was no romantic connection between the pair. A pal of the reality star told the publication: “Dan is devoted to Jacqueline and would hate for any suggestion of impropriety. Of course, it’s possible for a man and woman to be mates.”

With Brooklyn Beckham and his wife Nicola Peltz continuing to distance themselves from the close-knit family, cryptic social media posts have cemented concerns of a feud

Victoria Beckham looks solemn in new video amid ongoing feud with son Brooklyn and wife Nicola

Singer-turned-designer Victoria Beckham has put on a brave face in her latest Instagram video, but the mother-of-four looks like she’s carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders amid her estrangement from son Brooklyn. Victoria, 51, has shared a clip of herself applying make up to promote her Victoria Beckham Beauty range.

The Spice Girls star could be seen with a white towel wrapped around her hair, wearing a personalised silky robe while she talked into the camera. With dewy skin and her usual perfect make up, she described her new summer look to her 32.9 million followers, giving a tutorial on how to use her Satin Kajal Liner in Terracotta.

Fashion icon Victoria admitted she “spent a lot of time obsessing” over the colours in her make up range, telling fans about how different her products are to other things on the market. But she seemed more downbeat than usual in the clip, with her concern over her son’s relationship with his family likely to be laying heavy on her.

The family’s fall-out with eldest son Brooklyn, 26, and his wife Nicola Peltz, 30, has caused speculation among fans that a feud has emerged. Various cryptic videos have been posted on both sides of the rift, while Brooklyn completely missed out on his dad David’s 50th birthday celebrations – making him the only member of the family not to attend.

Victoria got back to business with her latest video

A recent interview with Glamour’s German magazine saw Brooklyn and Nicola open up on their relationship and the pressures fame has put on them. When asked about how he protects his relationship in the spotlight, Brooklyn said: “Ignore the noise. Keep your head down, work hard, be kind. People are always going to talk. What matters is that we’re happy together.”

Nicola added: “It’s not always easy. On TikTok there are always random stories popping up about us. When I see fake news, my instinct is to shut it down. But it’s not worth it. I just scroll past and move on.”

Nicola, who is the daughter of American billionaire businessman Nelson Peltz and former model Claudia Heffner Peltz, married Brooklyn, Victoria and David Beckham’s eldest son, in 2022. The interview seemed to show Nicola and Brooklyn distancing themselves from his close-knit family.

Cruz posted a sweet photo, reminding Brooklyn he is always part of the Beckham family

When a customer asked about his Cloud23 hot sauce brand’s name, a member of his team explained: “The 23 included in our brand is a warm nod to Brooklyn’s father, David Beckham, who wore number 23 while playing for Real Madrid and LA Galaxy, inspired by NBA legend Michael Jordan.”

But in Brooklyn’s interview in April with Glamour, he offered up a new meaning: “The 23 stands for our engagement date and my age back then.” Fresh images of Brooklyn also show that his tribute to Victoria, a tattoo reading: “Mama’s boy,” has been covered up.

Brooklyn stood firm in the feud, stating he would “always choose” his wife Nicola

In an Instagram video shared in May, Brooklyn appeared to clearly pledge allegiance to Nicola. Showing him take his wife for an early morning motorbike ride, he wrote: “My whole world x I will love you forever x I always choose you baby x you’re the most amazing person i know xx me and you forever baby.”

Less than a day after Brooklyn’s pointed statement, his brother Cruz Beckham, 20 shared what seemed to be a response. He posted a clip of one of his mum Victoria’s songs from her solo self-titled album, Every Part Of Me, writing simply: “Listen.”

The lyrics read: “I think you should know that people gonna come and go. Be assured of this one thing, I will still remain. I know that there will come a day when you have to go away. But you have no reason to fear, I promise I’ll be here if someone ever breaks your heart.

“And you feel your world is torn apart. My love for you will bring you through hard times. I’ll help you be strong.” The song poignantly ends: “I’ll always love you so… You’ll always be my baby.”

Lulu has enjoyed a career in entertainment for over 60 years

During last night’s The One Show, viewers were distracted by iconic singer Lulu’s youthful look.

The Relight My Fire hitmaker, 76, appeared on the BBC evening show on Friday (June 6) alongside former TOWIE star Pete Wicks and singer Olly Alexander.

Regular hosts Alex Jones and Roman Kemp served as hosts, while their guests joined them on the famous green couch.

Lulu appeared on the show alongside Pete Wicks and Olly Alexander (Credit: BBC)

Lulu on The One Show

During her appearance on the show, Lulu promoted her new book and tour, If Only You Knew.

With a career spanning over six decades, the chart-topper admitted the book delves deep into her life. “People think they know Lulu, but no one knows you. I’ve always been very careful, very private and chatty, but I keep a lot of things to myself. Now I’m talking about everything, and this is because the landscape has changed,” she said.

“When I was younger, everything was a secret, and there was a lot of shame because you didn’t talk about things, but today people talk about things, and I think it’s healthy. I’ve had an amazing life, but there are certain things in my life that I’ve never discussed.”

She continued: “I had to go to therapy because it was difficult not to unravel the things that I’ve been told not to say and the things I was assumed of. Once you’ve spoken about the things you’re assumed of.”

“I have mental health issues, I’ve come through a lot, my family, and it’s things that I didn’t want to talk about, but I reveal it in the book, which is kind of like being let out of jail.”

Fans praised Lulu’s youthful look (Credit: BBC)

‘Looking as beautiful as ever’

Despite discussing some heavy topics, viewers were in awe of how young Lulu looked. Pairing white trousers with a basic white tee, she wrapped herself up in a stylish blue jacket and opted for comfy trainers to complete her ensemble.

“Lulu looks great for 76,” one user wrote on X.

“#TheOneShow Lulu looks amazing! She looks so young. Love her!” another person shared.

“Lulu was sensational on The One Show!! And she looked stunningly lovely,” a third remarked on Facebook.

“Looking as beautiful as ever,” a fourth said.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry whisked their two young children away for a magical experience at Disneyland, with the Duchess of Sussex sharing a series of images and videos

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry treated their kids to an enchanting day out at Disneyland, celebrating Lilibet’s fourth birthday with a Little Mermaid-themed cake complete with pink icing, as revealed in Instagram snaps shared by Meghan.

The Sussexes’ visit was packed with memorable moments, including a sweet encounter where Archie and Lilibet met Elsa from Frozen, and the family enjoyed classic rides like the carousel. Meghan expressed her gratitude on Instagram, posting, “Thank you @disneyland for giving our family two days of pure joy!” while Peggy Lee’s “It’s a Good Day” set the mood.

The family photos showed them all donning Mickey Mouse ears and soaking up the Disney magic, with attractions like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, formerly Splash Mountain, featuring on their itinerary since its 2024 update.

The Sussex family enjoyed their day out ( 
Image:
meghan/Instagram)
Their adventure didn’t stop there; they also mingled with Star Wars stormtroopers, and Harry was snapped sharing a joyful grin on a ride next to Lilibet. The family indulged in traditional theme park fare, with a photo showcasing a spread of corndogs and snacks, marking their delightful outing.

Reacting to the snaps, one fan of the couple wrote on Twitter (X): “Meghan and Harry with their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet continuing to live their best life . Just normal parents taking their babies to Disney.”

Another added: “I love how Harry and Meghan make their their children’s birthdays so special. She may be 4 and Archie may be 6, but they will always remember that Disney magical experience and I love that this is something can experience.”

An adorable family day out ( 
Image:
meghan/Instagram)
Meghan has been sharing a lot more with fans over recent days. The Duchess of Sussex delighted her followers on Wednesday when she posted a video of herself twerking in a bid to bring on labour while pregnant with Princess Lilibet.

In the clip, a heavily pregnant Meghan is shown dancing in a hospital room to the Starrkeisha song Baby Momma, alongside the Duke of Sussex.

Meghan posted on her Instagram to celebrate Lili’s fourth birthday on Wednesday, writing: “Four years ago today, this also happened. Both of our children were a week past their due dates… so when spicy food, all that walking, and acupuncture didn’t work – there was only one thing left to do!”

Meghan has been sharing more online lately ( 
Image:
meghan/Instagram)The candid video, which runs for more than a minute, also features Harry, who is seen dancing in and out of the frame. He is beckoned in by Meghan as the pair dance together, with the duke appearing at the end with the hood of his grey hoodie up as he continues his dance moves.

Meghan is wearing a black maternity dress and cradles her large bump as she dances, as well as lifting her skirt above her knees, raising her hands in the air and wiggling low with her hands on her hips and legs.

The release of the footage is one of the more unusual ways a member of the royal family has marked a royal birthday. Earlier, the duchess posted never-before-seen intimate family photos of “Daddy’s little girl and favorite adventurer” Lili.

Meghan shared a black-and-white snap of herself cuddling the princess, who was sat on her lap, with the pair both sporting windswept hair, seemingly on a boat.

Another image showed Meghan tenderly cradling newborn Lili as she enjoyed skin-to-skin time with the new addition to her family in 2021. In a later post, she described how Lili’s relationship with Harry was “the sweetest bond to watch unfold”.

The duchess shared two further photos, showing the princess with her father, the duke, adding: “Daddy’s little girl and favorite adventurer. Happy birthday Lili!”

One picture was of Harry holding and gazing at his swaddled daughter as a newborn and the other captured the duke and Lili walking hand in hand and barefoot along a sandy path, surrounded by palm trees and under blue skies.

Meghan also wrote: “Happy birthday to our beautiful girl! Four years ago today she came into our lives – and each day is brighter and better because of it. Thanks to all of those sending love and celebrating her special day!”

The duchess usually only shares photos of her daughter pictured from behind to protect her privacy, but in the photo of her cuddling the princess, Lili’s eyes and the top half of her face could be seen, with her nose and mouth and the rest of her face covered by Meghan’s arms as she hugged the princess.

Emmerdale star Mike Parr teased a possible teaming up twist for his character Ross Barton and Robert Sugden on the ITV soap, amd it might be bad news for killer john Sugden

Robert Sugden is hotly tipped to target his love rival and half-brother John(Image: ITV)

Two characters could team up to take down Emmerdale villain John Sugden, and one of them might be a little unexpected.

Robert Sugden is hotly tipped to target his love rival and half-brother John, following John’s wedding to his ex Aaron Dingle. Ryan Hawley reprised his role in a major twist six years after he left the show in a recent episode.

Robert is soon returning full-time, and fans are so ready for him to possibly uncover the truth about John’s crimes, including the murder of Nate Robinson. But will another character team up with Robert and help him target John in a twist?

One cast member certainly thinks it would be a good twist when we quizzed them about the possibility of it happening. Mike Parr, who plays Ross Barton, spoke exclusively to The Mirror at the British Soap Awards.

He teased Ross could tease up with Robert in a separate plot, to possibly pave the way for the return of Robert’s son and Ross’ stepson Seb. But we took the moment to see how far Ross and Robert teaming up could go, and whether it could lead to the characters trying to bring down killer John.

Emmerdale star Mike Parr teased a possible teaming up twist for his character Ross Barton and Robert Sugden(Image: WireImage)

We asked about whether Ross might help Robert to get John, and he said: “Ooh yeah that would be good! If they can take him out to stop him taking other people out. John is always there at the right time, no one’s noticed that yet.”

With Ross actor Mike keen to see the pair join forces, could it lead to a twist with John? As for the plot with Seb, Mike shared: “That was my first question.

“I thought surely either we are gonna be fighting over this kid or we will try to get him back. I don’t know which I would rather, I mean I tried to shoot him, he stole my weed the last time he was there.

“They are always fighting but they might be a good team to work together, and maybe it would be good if they did join forces.” Mike also addressed the return of Robert, saying it was exciting for the fans.

Two characters could team up to take down Emmerdale villain John Sugden(Image: ITV)

He shared: “When you get a character who you maybe haven’t always been involved with but you know it’s gonna be a huge positive for the show, it’s going to be huge. For the audience it’s so important, and it’s someone they’re loud over.

“I knew that they would be over the moon and I’m so happy for them.” Viewers are hoping for a Robron reunion for Robert and Aaron now that they are both back in the village.

It’s not just viewers though, with stars Natalie J Robb and Bradley Riches clearly backing the reunion too. They told us at the awards: “Hashtag Robron!”

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

Coronation Street’s Betsy Swain actress Sydney Martin has shared both her and her character’s thoughts on that Lisa and Carla proposal, and if a wedding could air on the ITV soap

One Coronation Street star has shared a new theory about something that could happen if Lisa Swain and Carla Connor did end up getting married(Image: ITV)

One Coronation Street star has shared a new theory about something that could happen if Lisa Swain and Carla Connor did end up getting married.

Amid hopes from Swarla fans for a wedding for the pair after a recent proposal, actress Sydney Martin, who plays Lisa’s daughter Betsy Swain on the ITV soap, has had her say. She shared her character’s true thoughts on the romance and how she would react to the proposal, and a possible wedding.

She also shared her own thoughts on Swarla, acknowledging the fictional couple’s international reach while sharing what she thinks could happen where the wedding is concerned, with her thoughts on both the likely bridesmaids and whether they will make it to Ibiza. With Lisa and Carla sharing their hopes for a future ceremony, and Carla saying now was not the right time, the pair are not currently engaged.

But fans are sure it will happen soon, amid the characters plotting an Ibiza wedding. Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, actress Sydney shared her thoughts on the twist and what’s ahead.

Coronation Street’s Betsy Swain actress Sydney Martin has shared both her and her character’s thoughts on that Lisa and Carla proposal(Image: Getty Images)

She spilled on how Betsy would react to them being engaged if it happened: “I think secretly she would love it. Sydney would absolutely love it, but Betsy I think internally she would too.

“She knows the dynamic really works and she does truly see Carla as a stepmother and as family. But I think she would still be Betsy wouldn’t she, and she would probably be embarrassed by them both.”

Cait Fitton, who plays Lauren Bolton on the show, joined in with the Swarla chat and confessed she was hoping her character would bag an invite to the big day. She told her co-star: “I need to be there!”

It’s then that Sydney shared a possible prediction about the big scenes, if not a hope, as she told Cait that Lauren could well be a bridesmaid for the pair. She told Cait: “Don’t worry, you will be there with Betsy in the bridesmaid dresses. Hopefully one day.”

Amid hopes from Swarla fans for a wedding for the pair after a recent proposal, actress Sydney Martin, who plays Lisa’s daughter Betsy Swain on the ITV soap, has had her say(Image: ITV)

We also got their thoughts on the possible wedding location being Ibiza, and it is safe to say both Cait and Sydney were down. Sydney said: “I wish we were going Ibiza! I mean you know what, if they’re not going to take us to Ibiza… we’d so be there.”

Cait added: “I would love that.” Sydney shared her support for the couple, as did Cait, while acknowledging the fan base for Swarla had gone international.

It wasn’t just Cait and Sydney that wanted the trip to Ibiza meanwhile, as when we spoke to Lisa actress Vicky Myers she was ready for the petition to get going.

She joked: “I think it would be very good. Shall we see? We can put it out there.”

It was an emotional night in Coronation Street tonight, as Eileen Grimshaw waved goodbye to Weatherfield after 25 years – but some fans wanted a better exit for the star

Eileen Grimshaw waved goodbye to Weatherfield tonight in emotional scenes (Image: ITV)

It was the end of an era on Coronation Street tonight, as Eileen Grimshaw (Sue Cleaver) waved goodbye to the street she’d lived on for 25 years. Actress Sue Cleaver joined the ITV soap in 2000, when her character moved into number 11 with sons Jason and Todd Grimshaw. However, some fans weren’t impressed with her exit scenes.

The character quickly became a fan favourite, winning numerous awards for her portrayal of the role, and her feud with Gail Platt (Helen Worth) will go down in history.

However, after 25 years, it was time for Eileen to wave goodbye to Weatherfield, and hello to Thailand as she made a big move.

Jason returned to Weatherfield for Eileen’s big exit (Image: ITV)

It comes after a tough time for the character, who was being suspected in her sister Julie’s tragic death. In tonight’s episode, Eileen was cleared by the police of any wrongdoing in Julie’s death. She then decided to make the move to Thailand, and invest in her son Jason’s bar.

It wasn’t the only big change for the character, as she ended her relationship with George after admitting she only loved him as a friend.

In her final scenes, Eileen who worked at the StreetCars taxi service alongside Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson), was seen hopping into the back of his cab with Jason.

The StreetCars team gave Eileen the send off she deserved (Image: ITV)

Showing their appreciation, Tim Metcalfe (Joe Duttine) and the other cabbies lined up the taxis on the street, honking their horns and saluting her as she waved out the window.

Despite the ‘touching’ scenes, some fans weren’t happy about the exit Eileen was given after 25 years, as they expected more. One penned: “This will go down in history as one of the most drawn out exits ever,” as another wrote: “This is a dreadful last episode for a long term character.”

“Well, that send off, wasn’t very exciting,” tweeted a third, while another agreed: “Goodness. Eileen’s exit storyline is very, very, VERY bland.”

However, others took to the social media platform to praise the exit. “Wow todays episode of Corrie had me happy crying what an ending for an iconic character,” wrote one fan, as another said: “Loved how all the taxis lined the street to wave eileen off. Nice touch.”

Previously speaking about her exit scenes, Sue gushed that the ITV soap had given her “the perfect ending.” Speaking on Kelvin and Liz Fletcher’s Off Script podcast, the star said: “When I read it and saw it, I was really emotional. It’s the perfect ending. It is everything that I wanted.”

Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITV X.

Sir Rod Stewart has been forced to cancel a number of upcoming US shows as he continues to recover from the flu. The music legend is still expected to perform at Glastonbury later this month

British rock legend Sir Rod Stewart has been forced to scrap a series of US gigs due to flu, just weeks before his much-awaited appearance at Glastonbury. Scheduled to take the prestigious tea-time legends slot at the festival in Somerset on Sunday June 29, fans are eager for his performance.

But concern has grown over recent weeks due to the Maggie May singer cancelling a string of performances due to illness, the latest axed shows confirmed in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The star expressed his sorrow on Instagram, telling followers he was “devastated” to postpone six stateside concerts planned for the following eight days. It comes less than a week after Sir Rod, 80, had been forced to reschedule a previous show due to ill health.

“I have to cancel and reschedule my next six concerts in June as I continue to recover from the flu,” Sir Rod shared, clearly disheartened. His heartfelt message continued with: “So sorry my friends.”

Sir Rod Stewart has cancelled more tour dates under doctors orders ( 
Image:
Getty Images for FIREAID)

Adding, “I’m devastated and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience to my fans. I’ll be back on stage and will see you soon.” He finished the note with “Sir Rod” alongside a heartbreak emoji.

Further to the announcement, he detailed the postponed gigs, including dates in Las Vegas and Stateline, Nevada, with the two California performances expected to get new dates.

“Oh no, I can’t believe this! I came all the way from Germany. All for nothing! Get well soon,” one gutted fan wrote in the comments underneath Sir Rod’s announcement.

“The main thing is you get better fans like myself understand,” another added, with a third writing: “Feel better soon but 2 cancelled concerts in Vegas within one year kind of hurts. ..it’s too expensive for flights & rooms for a third time, sadly. I’ll always remember the 4 times I did get to see you forever though.”

The 80-year-old rocker also whipped up excitement by revealing his upcoming Glastonbury gig will feature a reunion with Faces bandmate Ronnie Wood.

Other notable sets include Brat star Charli XCX, who will headline the Other Stage between 10.30pm and 11.45pm on Saturday, while rising rapper Doechii will headline the West Holts Stage between 10.15pm and 11.45pm on the same day.

On That Peter Crouch Podcast, Sir Rod lamented the brevity of his Pyramid Stage performance, pleading for a quarter-hour boost to his planned hour and fifteen minutes slot, citing his standard two-hour setlist.

Peering into the future, he has stated that he won’t hang up his mic in 2024 but declared his 2025 tours across Europe and North America would mark the end of epic world tours, hinting at more cosy venue shows thereafter.

Sir Rod’s most recognised solo hits include Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, Every Beat Of My Heart, and Maggie May. Just last month, he was honoured with a distinguished lifetime achievement award at the American Music Awards (AMAs), presented by five of his children.