THE NEW KING HAS ARRIVED: Sir David Attenborough has effectively crowned Hamza Yassin as Britain’s new nature hero

Move over, every polished presenter who ever read a script about badgers: Britain has chosen its new natural-history heartbeat, and he’s a 6-foot-6 Sudanese-Scottish giant who learned to track lynx before he could drive, cries when otters hold hands, and once spent 42 straight nights sleeping in a hide just to film pine martens falling in love.

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Last night, BBC One dropped the first trailer for Hamza’s Wild Britain (a six-part landmark series launching spring 2026), and within four hours it became the most-watched BBC trailer in a decade. The final 15 seconds alone have been viewed 28 million times: Hamza, knee-deep in a Highland river at dawn, whispering so gently the microphone barely catches it as a mother otter teaches her pup to swim literally inches from his face. No music. Just his soft Glasgow-Sudanese lilt: “Look… she’s telling him the water will hold him, if he trusts it. Same thing my mum told me when we arrived in Scotland and I couldn’t speak a word of English.”

Hamza arrived in rural Northamptonshire from Sudan at age eight, speaking no English, clutching a bird book his father gave him “because birds don’t care what language you speak.” By twelve he was the weird kid cycling ten miles before school to photograph kingfishers. At sixteen he won Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year with a shot of a fox cub yawning that looked like it was laughing at the universe. University (Bangor, zoology) was just an excuse to live closer to puffins.

Then came the decade nobody saw: camera-operating on Planet Earth III, Springwatch, and Countryfile, always the guy in the muddy boots who could lie motionless for 14 hours until a badger sniffed his lens and decided he was harmless. Crew nicknamed him “the Otter Whisperer” after he filmed the first-ever footage of wild otters playing with pebbles in the Cairngorms, entirely by becoming part of the furniture for six weeks.

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His big break was accidental. In 2022 he entered Strictly Come Dancing “because my mum loves glitterballs and I thought it might pay for a new hide.” He won the whole thing with Jowita Przystał, foxtrotting like a man who’d spent his life learning rhythm from golden eagles soaring on thermals. Overnight, eight million people discovered the gentle giant who spoke about conservation between sambas.

The BBC pounced. First Hamza: Wild Isles (2024), then the Emmy-nominated Hamza’s Sudan (2025), where he returned to his birthplace to film the last northern white rhinos under the same stars he watched as a child. Critics called it “the most emotional hour of television this decade.” Viewers just called it “life-changing.”

Now Hamza’s Wild Britain is being billed as the spiritual successor to Attenborough’s Life on Earth. Shot entirely by Hamza himself (he still refuses a full camera crew because “animals don’t like strangers”), it promises never-before-seen behaviour: red squirrels teaching their young to tightrope-walk power lines, urban foxes using pedestrian crossings at night, golden eagles hunting in snowstorms so violent Hamza had to be roped to a cliff for three days.

The trailer’s money shot? Hamza lying flat on his stomach in a peat bog at 4 a.m., face inches from a wild mountain hare in its white winter coat. The hare slowly reaches out and touches his beard with its paw. Hamza doesn’t move, doesn’t breathe. When the hare eventually hops away, he whispers to camera, voice cracking: “Sometimes the wild decides you’re worth trusting. That’s the best feeling in the world.”

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Sir David himself has already given the ultimate blessing. In a rare statement, the 99-year-old legend said: “Hamza sees the natural world the way poets see love: with wonder that never ages. The baton isn’t being passed; it’s being shared.”

Social media is flooded with kids posting drawings of otters wearing glittery bow ties “for Uncle Hamza.” Primary schools are reporting record numbers of children wanting to become “rangers instead of YouTubers.” The RSPB’s junior membership has tripled in six months.

Hamza, being Hamza, responded to the “new Attenborough” hype with typical humility on Instagram last night: a simple photo of his muddy wellies next to a child’s drawing of an otter holding a glitterball, captioned, “I’m just the tall idiot who talks to animals. Thank you for letting me into your living rooms. I’ll try to make the planet prouder than I am right now.”

Britain has a new voice for its wild places, and it sounds like hope wrapped in a Highland breeze. Spring 2026 can’t come soon enough.

In an explosive live television showdown that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, Nigel Farage unleashed a stinging critique of London Mayor Sadiq Khan, sparking a fiery exchange that left viewers captivated and outraged in equal measure. The debate aired just moments ago, with Farage pulling no punches as he cornered Khan on a variety of contentious issues, from the capital’s spiraling crime rates to his handling of pressing urban challenges.

With a screen time that felt more like a boxing match than a political debate, Farage’s relentless onslaught showcased a rare moment of vulnerability for Khan. The intensity was palpable as Farage accused Khan of failing Londoners, his words echoing strongly in a city that feels increasingly unsafe under his watch. Viewers witnessed a stark contrast between the two figures: Farage, known for his brash and confrontational style, stood opposed to Khan, whose calm façade was almost shattered by the barrage of incisive questions and pointed criticisms.

As the camera panned across the studio audience, gasps and murmurs of disbelief filled the air when Farage unleashed one of his most striking rebukes. “You’ve been Mayor for seven years, Sadiq—what do you have to show for it?” he demanded, his voice cutting through the room like a knife. The question hung in the air, and it was clear that Farage’s blunt approach had caught Khan off guard, his demeanor momentarily faltering.

The debate, aired during prime time, was meant to address various issues impacting London, but it quickly morphed into a referendum on Khan’s leadership. The packed audience was seen on the edge of their seats, many visibly shifting in their chairs as Farage laid into Khan’s response to the persistent surge in violence and crime across London. “Last year alone, knife crime shot up—people are scared to walk the streets! What will it take for you to prioritize the safety of Londoners?” Farage pressed, his tone fiery and unyielding.

Khan responded with a barrage of standard political platitudes, attempting to maintain control of the narrative. However, it was evident that the audience grew restless as they sought real solutions rather than rehearsed sound bites. Farage, capitalizing on this unrest, pressed further, morphing the conversation into an indictment of Khan’s policies, or lack thereof, that have contributed to the capital’s troubling spikes in crime and disorder.

“Your legacy is one of destruction and division. People no longer feel safe. How can you possibly justify continuing in this role?” Farage’s biting words were met with audible gasps. It was a moment of sheer drama that showcased the depth of public frustration and Farage’s strategic prowess pushing Khan into a corner.

The sharp exchange continued, with Farage challenging Khan to lay out his plans for the future—a challenge Khan struggled to meet amidst the chaos of the moment. “We need action right now. Not empty promises,” Farage implored the Mayor, throwing down the gauntlet and compelling him to respond with genuine accountability.

Khan attempted to redirect the conversation, outlining various community safety initiatives and investments. But the audience remained skeptical, and Farage wasted no time in dismantling Khan’s arguments piece by piece. “Hasn’t the time for platitudes come to an end?” he asked pointedly, invoking the frustration felt by many Londoners at the state of their city. His relentless interrogative approach forced Khan to navigate through basic defenses while the tension escalated around them.

Throughout the debate, the body language of both politicians spoke volumes. Farage projected confidence and resolve, whereas Khan increasingly appeared defensive, his gestures betraying a sense of frustration. When Farage accused Khan of espousing “the politics of fear,” insinuating that the Mayor was sidestepping his failure to address real issues, the atmosphere in the studio thickened with shared disbelief.

In a 𝓈𝒽𝓸𝒸𝓀𝒾𝓃𝑔 political upheaval, Labour leader Keir Starmer faces a growing crisis as multiple MPs defect to Reform UK, a party gaining traction by capitalizing on disillusionment with traditional politics. The unprecedented defection, sparked by Labour’s perceived abandonment of its working-class roots, signals a seismic shift in the British political landscape.

The chaos erupted following a narrow victory for Reform UK in Runcorn and Hellsby, where they seized a historically Labour-held seat by just six votes. This upset has sent shockwaves through Westminster, igniting fears that Labour’s stronghold is crumbling. Starmer, already under fire for a lack of direction, now finds his leadership challenged by an increasing number of MPs openly rebelling against party policies.

The discontent within Labour is palpable. MPs are voicing their frustrations over welfare cuts and the party’s drift from its core values. Many constituents feel abandoned, with calls for a return to the party’s roots growing louder. The internal rebellion underscores a broader sentiment: Labour is losing touch with the very people it was meant to represent.

As Reform UK rises, they are drawing support from both disillusioned Labour voters and frustrated Conservatives. Their blunt messaging resonates with a public tired of political double-speak and empty promises. This shift is not merely a political maneuver; it reflects a deeper societal anger, a yearning for authenticity in a time of crisis.

In response to the mounting pressure, Starmer has called for a snap general election. However, this move appears more desperate than strategic, as internal party strife spills into public view. His authority is waning, and the election is seen as a last-ditch effort to regain control before the situation deteriorates further.

The fallout from the election call has been immediate, with Labour’s poll numbers taking another hit. Voters, already weary of Starmer’s policy reversals and lack of clear direction, perceive this election not as a fresh start, but as a sign of a leader on the ropes. Meanwhile, Reform UK continues to build momentum, positioning itself as a viable alternative in a rapidly changing political environment.

The implications of these defections are profound. With both major parties in turmoil, the traditional political order is under threat. Communities across Britain are feeling the strain of rising inflation, stagnant wages, and a healthcare system on the brink. As trust in politicians dwindles, voters are increasingly turning to Reform UK for answers.

Labour’s troubles are compounded by recent controversies, including remarks from MP Lucy Powell that downplayed serious issues, further eroding trust. The backlash against her comments highlights a growing perception that Labour prioritizes image over genuine concern for the electorate. This misstep has only accelerated Reform UK’s rise, as they seize the opportunity to present themselves as the party willing to confront uncomfortable truths.

As the political landscape shifts, the question looms large: Is Reform UK a fleeting protest movement or the future of British politics? With Labour divided and the Conservatives faltering, the upcoming election could reshape the political landscape for generations. The old guard is crumbling, and a new era of politics may be on the horizon, one that demands accountability and genuine representation.

 

The stakes have never been higher, and the urgency of this moment cannot be overstated. Voters are ready for change, and the traditional parties must respond or risk being left behind in a rapidly evolving political reality.

After a year of public outcry, legal controversy and emotional separations, the much-loved animal duo of Molly the magpie and Peggy the Staffordshire terrier are finally set to spend a warm Christmas together — much to the delight of their global fanbase.

The unlikely friendship between a wild magpie and a domestic dog captured hearts around the world. Their owners, a couple from Queensland, Australia, chronicled the pair’s daily interactions on social media, building a legion of followers who were enchanted by the scenes of the bird and dog playing, resting together and even mimicking each other’s noises.

But the fairy-tale narrative was interrupted when authorities determined that Molly — a native wild bird — was being held without the necessary wildlife licences. Under Queensland’s environmental regulations, native animals rescued from the wild must be cared for by licensed carers and should not be habituated to domestic animals in ways that might impair their chances of living independently in the wild.

The decision to seize Molly sparked a significant public reaction. Supporters launched petitions, rallied on social platforms, and urged government officials to reconsider. One petition calling for the duo’s reunion garnered tens of thousands of signatures, reflecting the depth of affection the pair had inspired worldwide.

In response to the widespread concern, and after extensive dialogue with the owners, the situation took a positive turn. Molly was returned to her carers and reunited with Peggy — bringing an emotional end to months of uncertainty and separation. The owners shared the joyful news, expressing their gratitude and relief that the pair would be together again in time for Christmas.

Their story is more than just a viral sensation; it highlights the complex intersection between wildlife protection and the digital age’s fascination with inter-species friendships. While many have been touched by the bond between Molly and Peggy, the broader discussion underscores the importance of wildlife welfare and responsible stewardship.

For fans around the world, this Christmas reunion stands as a heart-warming reminder of community spirit, resilience and the universal appeal of friendship in all its forms.

WATCH: ‘Rape gang apologists!’ | Patrick Christys slams the ‘far-left’ for ‘denying the reality’ of grooming gans

Convicted rape gang members have been let back onto Britain’s streets after just a few years in jail – which Reform called a ‘betrayal of victims’

Reform UK has pledged to introduce mandatory life sentences for convicted grooming gang rapists if it wins power.

The party’s policy chief Zia Yusuf has said offenders found guilty of raping anyone under 16 should receive whole life orders – without the chance of parole.

“For too long, Conservative and Labour Governments have failed to protect our children,” Mr Yusuf said.

“A Reform Government will introduce mandatory minimum life sentences for those who rape children. It is shameful that this is not already the law.”

Mr Yusuf went on to describe the situation as “a profound betrayal of victims and of the public’s trust”.

England and Wales currently have no minimum sentence for child sexual abuse or exploitation.

Judges currently set their own sentences, with some perpetrators receiving just a few years behind bars.

Last year, Amreaz Asghar and Zehroon Razak were convicted of raping a teenage girl in Keighley, West Yorkshire, in the late 1990s.

Asghar was handed a four-and-a-half years, while Razak was jailed for six-and-a-half years.

Reform UK has pledged to introduce mandatory life sentences for convicted grooming gang rapists

Labour’s Attorney General Lord Hermer declined to refer these sentences to the Court of Appeal – despite complaints they were unduly lenient.

Other rape gang members in Keighley had their punishments increased.

Ibrar Hussain, Imtiaz Ahmed and Fayaz Ahmed initially received between six-and-a-half and nine years for child rape offences.

Their sentences were later raised to between 10 and 11 years.

Mr Yusuf said: “It is a stain on our national conscience that grooming gangs were allowed to operate for years with impunity, and in many cases still do.”

‘It is a stain on our national conscience that grooming gangs were allowed to operate for years with impunity,’ Zia Yusuf said

He pointed to sentencing data showing that under the Tories, the typical prison term for raping a child under 13 dropped to just nine years – with some handed six-year jail spails.

Mr Yusuf then turned his fire on Labour, and how under Sir Keir Starmer, violent offenders are now being released early from prison.

Elsewhere, Reform has decried how the existing appeals process for lenient sentences takes months to complete.

The party has said its proposed mandatory minimum term would apply only to offenders aged 18 or older when the crime occurred.

Violent offenders are now being released early from prison under Sir Keir Starme

Mr Yusuf noted that mandatory minimum sentences already exist for certain offences in England and Wales.

These include three years for a third domestic burglary conviction, and seven years for a third Class A drug-trafficking offence.

Reform said it would consult on how to apply the mandatory minimum to historical offences once in Government.

But with Britain’s prisons overflowing, the party was also forced to admit its plans would see around 500 more inmates put behind bars every year – though promised to bump up prison capacity as a result.

Reform UK on course for three-figure Commons majority while Labour brace for General Election disaster in bombshell mega poll

Reform UK is set for a three-figure majority in the House of Commons, while Labour are set for a huge slump, a bombshell poll has revealed.

It’s been a year of continued growth for Nigel Farage and Reform this year, demonstrated at local level where they made a net gain of 94 seats – the most of any party by a significant distance.

But now, on a national level, More in Common’s January MRP projects a Reform UK majority if a General Election were held today.

The organisation suggests, based on polling of more than 16,000 Britons, Reform would take 381 seats.

Mr Farage’s party are projected to win a majority of 112 over all other parties combined, with their earlier rapid polling gains now seemingly holding steady.

This would see Reform winning 60 per cent of seats on 31 per cent of the vote, rivalling the 2024 General Election as one of the most disproportionate results in modern British history.

Reform UK are set for a three-figure majority in the House of Commons, a bombshell poll has revealed

However, Sir Keir Starmer and the Labour Party’s slump is projected to continue.

On a local level, Labour ended 2025 with 89 seats fewer than they started.

More in Common project that, as it stands, Sir Keir’s party would slump to just 85 seats, a loss of 326 seats from their July 2024 landslide.

The report also suggests that Kemi Badenoch’s Tories are “stabilising”, and, while still down on their 2024 count, the result would be better than the previous MRP projection.

Sir Keir Starmer and the Labour Party’s slump is projected to continue

It also puts them within touching distance of Labour – just 15 seats.

As for the sudden emergence of the Green Party under Zack Polanski, whose membership numbers shot up from 70,000 to 180,000 in the final four months of the year, it remains positive.

They are projected to more than double their parliamentary presence from four to nine seats, taking seats directly from Labour.

More in Common UK Director Luke Tryl said that, based on polling since the Budget, Reform could hope for a “substantial three-figure majority”.

He added that the “Polanski surge” gave momentum to the Greens through “disillusioned progressives putting them within shouting distance of many more gains from Labour,” who in turn would “slump to a modern low”.

But Mr Tryl warned: “There is one major caveat: tactical voting. For the first time we have explored how tactical voting could reshape the model projections.

“It suggests the Liberal Democrats could be big winners here – and if that tactical voting is anywhere close to the scale we saw in Caerphilly, that parties of the left could deny Reform a majority and form a rainbow coalition of their own.”

The Liberal Democrats ran out major victors at local level throughout 2025. Ed Davey’s party won 106 Council by-elections in 2025, more than any other party.

They also held an astonishing 82 per cent of seats they defended in by-elections last year.

Mr Tryl continued: “The threat of tactical voting, combined with the narrow margin of many of Reform’s projected victories, suggests their momentum may have at least temporarily stalled.

“That, combined with the fact we are still years from an election, means that despite their success in 2025, the path to the next general election is still far from known.”

In a shocking turn of events, controversial figure Katie Hopkins has set social media ablaze by publicly exposing what she claims to be long-suspected truths about Labour leader Keir Starmer. This bold declaration has ignited a firestorm of debate and speculation, reverberating through political circles, and captivating the public’s attention with its raw implications for the UK political landscape.

In a stirring video shared across multiple platforms, Hopkins, known for her provocative takes and polarizing opinions, asserts that Starmer’s leadership does not align with the values and expectations he professes to uphold. Her assertions come on the heels of growing discontent among the electorate regarding Starmer’s approach to leadership and party direction. With ever-increasing scrutiny on the Labour party’s feigned unity and its performance in a turbulent political environment, Hopkins’ comments couldn’t come at a more critical time.

During the video, Hopkins doesn’t hold back, bluntly suggesting that Starmer has failed to deliver on his promises, echoing sentiments already circulating in the political arena. She claims that Starmer’s tenure has been marred by indecisiveness and a lack of genuine connection to the working-class voters he aims to represent. According to Hopkins, this has left many questioning if the Labour party can truly be the voice of the people, or just another establishment entity.

As the ramifications of her allegations unfold, many are left wondering about the authenticity of Starmer’s narrative. Australia’s increasing global presence in politics and culture has amplified the intensity at which such criticisms are taken. The timing is crucial; with general elections around the corner, all eyes are on the Labour Party, and such revelations could sway public opinion significantly. With voter sentiment hanging by a thread, possibly swaying towards the Conservatives, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Starmer and his leadership team.

Critics of Starmer have thrived in the wake of Hopkins’ statements, with notable figures across social media echoing her sentiments, amplifying the echo chamber of dissent within the party. The public is led into a whirlwind of dialogue, suggesting that the Labour Party—once a solid bastion for those seeking social reform and justice—has slowly descended into a quagmire of identity politics and factional infighting that is alienating its core supporters.

In stark contrast to the passionate arguments of his dissenters, Starmer has continued to present a composed and strategic public persona, meticulously navigating through the storm while appearing to remain focused on his broader political vision. But for many, this calm veneer belies an internal struggle to maintain coherence and purpose in a party divided by ideology and influence. Hopkin’s incendiary comments resonate with a growing belief that Starmer is losing touch, where empathy should reign and strategy takes precedence, implying a vital link between authentic representation and political success.

Emerging reactions have been swift, with some voicing support for Hopkins while others vehemently defend Starmer’s record. Labour Party members are caught in a vortex of frustration, caught between a groundbreaking leader who promises change and the ever-growing germination of dissatisfaction that plagues party ranks. This exposure fans the flames of discussion, igniting dialogues around social justice, economic policy, and transparency—topics that resonate deeply with those faced with the tangible ramifications of political decisions.

Political analysts predict that these revelations could create a seismic shift in the political landscape as the narrative surrounding Starmer continues to unfold. If voters perceive Starmer as out of touch, there’s a legitimate concern that the Labour Party may face an uphill battle in both public sentiment and electoral viability. The crucial margin between voters remaining loyal to historical party lines versus pursuing alternatives is razor-thin, especially in light of Hopkins’s inflammatory revelations.

As amid public scrutiny casts shadows on his leadership, there is a rush for narrative control, with Starmer’s camp working diligently to reshape public perception before next year’s general elections. In an election cycle where each move is scrutinized, every statement made is dissected, and public dreams deferred can haunt leaders for generations; the stakes are undeniable.

Harry GOES NUTS After Ex-Driver REVEALS Meghan’s SECRET Night Trips To Andrew. In a shocking and unexpected revelation, former chauffeur to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has opened Pandora’s box, alleging that the Duchess of Sussex has been making clandestine night visits to none other than Prince Andrew. As the royal family grapples with the fallout from these explosive claims, the air has thickened with tension, leading an outraged Prince Harry to lash out, declaring, “This has to stop!” The implications of these nights spent behind closed doors could upend the public’s perception of the couple and reignite grave concerns regarding the already infamous royal.

Meghan Markle experienced an explosive meltdown following a stunning interview with Piers Morgan, where he unleashed a barrage of allegations and scandals that threaten to redefine her public image. The tension-filled encounter, which aired last night, revealed Markle in a state of emotional turmoil, struggling to maintain her composure as Morgan delivered bombshell after bombshell, leaving audiences and observers alike on the edge of their seats.

Prince Harry has reportedly lost his temper after uncovering shocking details about Meghan Markle’s history with Soho House, the exclusive members- only club in London. Tensions are building in the royal household as new information emerges regarding Meghan’s past associations and activities that have reignited scrutiny over her character, leading to a full-blown crisis within the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s relationship. This unprecedented turmoil has left royal watchers and fans buzzing with speculation about the couple’s future, as sources reveal that Harry’s emotional outburst has raised serious questions about their marriage.

As we watch this contentious political drama unfold, the question looms large: Will Keir Starmer emerge unfazed by the challenges set forth by critics like Katie Hopkins? Or will these revelations usher in a new era of unrest for the Labour Party, hastening its downfall or perhaps spurring a much-needed ideological renaissance? Time will tell, but for now, the dialogue has been ignited, the gloves have come off, and the political fallout may very well shape the trajectory of British politics and the future of Labour as we know it.

Stay with us as more developments unfold in this rapidly evolving story. Each minute brings with it new reactions and unfolding narratives that could drastically change the political landscape in the UK ahead of the upcoming elections. With passions running high and opinions divided, one thing is clear: the public is watching, and the clock is ticking for Starmer to respond effectively to the mounting pressures fueled by veterans like Katie Hopkins who have taken it upon themselves to expose what many have long suspected.

Good Morning Britain stars in tears as ITV cost cutting shake up takes effect

ITV’s daytime schedule is changing from Janaury 5.

Kate Garraway was seen looking tearful as the Good Morning Britain set was pulled down (Image: Philip Coburn /Daily Mirror)

Good Morning Britain presenters and crew were tearful as the show’s set was torn down ahead of the ITV new year schedule shake-up, which was announced back in May 2025. From Monday Janaury 5 ITV daytime will have a new look with the flagship breakfast show extended by 30 minutes and Lorraine cut by half and hour. As part of the changes, filming is moving from ITV studios to ITN headquarters in Central London, while the other daytime shows will be filmed at The H Club in Covent Garden

As part of the cost-cutting measures, at least 220 people have lost their jobs. “It’s terribly sad for the whole team. There are staff who have worked for ITV Daytime for years – from GMTV to Daybreak to GMB – also on Lorraine, Loose Women and This Morning….Many people who weren’t ready to leave yet are saying goodbye forever,” a source said.

“To see the sets pulled apart is devastating. Especially at this time of the year as well! The final broadcast from Television Centre was a very emotional one,” they told The Sun.

In behind the scenes images obtained by the publication presenter Kate Garraway can be seen welling up as she listens to someone make a speech while Susanna Reid and Laura Tobin look emotional as they say their farewells to the studio.

Susanna later took to Instagram to mark the occassion as she paid tribute to those who won’t be joining them in their new home.

Posting a carosel of photos, including a group shot of the entire team before the set was dismantled, she wrote: “NEW YEAR’S EVE! A fabulous gathering of the BEST team in television @gmb and a farewell to those off to new adventures…

GMB presenter Susann Reid paid tribute to those leaving ITV as part of the shake up (Image: ITV)

“I’ll be back in January in our new home. Goodbye to those leaving and a huge thank you to everyone who has made – and those who continue to make – GMB such a fantastic programme – and to Television Centre for being our home for the past few years.

“Fittingly we reached a record #OneMillionMinutes total thanks to you – our amazing viewers – and a boost from the spaceman himself @samhairwolfryder.

“Me and @edballs will be back @itv broadcasting from the heart of news building ITN on January 5th – wearing my “serious glasses” which hilariously appeared in @privateeyenews gift guide – all the better to grill those politicians!

“Look forward to SEEING you then,” she concluded the emotional message.

trictly’s Neil Jones is beloved by many – but the pro dancer has had an incredibly tough 12 months.

Since shooting to fame on the BBC show in 2016, Neil has become a firm favourite with fans

However, 2025 hasn’t exactly been plain sailing for Neil – who is on Escape To The Country today (January 4). Here, ED! is taking a look at his difficult past few months

Neil’s partner Chyna hit out at her mother-in-law (Credit: IPA / SplashNews.com)

Neil Jones and Chyna Mills family ‘racism’ row

27-year-old Chyna and 43-year-old Neil have been together since August 2022. They welcomed their daughter, Havana, in late 2023. And, recently they revealed they had held a baptism for her, with Neil’s family appearing to be absent.

Taking to her Instagram Stories, Chyna alleged to her followers that “enough was enough” and she needed to speak out about what she claims has been happening.

She claimed: “It’s heartbreaking when people try to ruin the most beautiful moments in my daughter’s life. I have faced bullying, racism and constant disrespect from a so-called MIL [mother-in-law] since the moment I met her.”

Chyna went on to allege that certain family members chose not to attend her daughter’s baptism due to the ongoing issues.

The dancer’s sister Terri Peters later spoke to the Mail and alleged that Chyna is lying about the situation with Neil’s mother, Helen. In a pretty cryptic comment, she said: “I don’t want to comment at this time. If she wants to spin lies, then look, the truth will come out eventually.”

He didn’t have a partner this year (Credit: BBC)

Neil snubbed from 2025 Strictly series

Dancer Neil joined the glitzy series back 2016. And over the years, he’s been partnered with the likes of Alex Scott and Toyah Wilcox.

This year, though, Neil failed to land a partner on the latest series – much to fans’ heartbreak. What’s more, Neil himself poked fun at the BBC’s decision to bench him in a cheeky Instagram video shared in September.

He is seen attempting to throw a pen into a cup in the clip, captioned: “If I get the pen in the cup I will get a celeb partner this year.” He then throws the pen in the complete opposite direction of the cup.

Better luck next year, Neil.

Neil’s father died also this year (Credit: BBC)

Neil’s secret family heartacheIn November, Neil shared the devastating news that his dad, David, died. Sharing a series of black-and-white photos of his lookalike father, Neil told fans: “Yesterday I said goodbye to my dad for the final time.

“I thought I knew my dad but yesterday I realised I didn’t after hearing so many lovely and funny stories from family and his closest friends, I know he would be smiling looking down with a pint in his hand,” he continued.

“Thank you Wendy and everyone for making it such a special day. RIP DAD.”

Here’s to a much happier new year, Neil.

 

Joaппa Lυmley Shares Emotioпal Health Update After Stroke: “I’m Fightiпg — Bυt I Caп’t Do It Aloпe”

After weeks of anxious silence and growing concern among admirers around the world, Joanna Lumley has shared a deeply moving update on her health following a serious medical emergency that doctors have classified as critical.

The beloved British actress, writer, and humanitarian confirmed that she recently underwent surgery and is now beginning a long and arduous recovery process.

While she has chosen to keep many medical details private, her words carried a quiet bravery that resonated instantly with fans:

“I still have a long road ahead,” Lumley wrote. “But I believe in healing — through love, through family, and through the kindness and prayers from all of you.”

A Sudden Health Crisis

According to sources close to the family, Lumley’s stroke came unexpectedly, prompting immediate medical intervention and a period of strict analysis.

Family says the situation was serious enough to require urgent surgery, followed by close monitoring and rest.

Her seriousness soon worldwide for her elegance, tireless activism, and seemingly boundless energy, the news was both shocking and sobering.

Yet those closest to her say Lumley faced the crisis with the same quiet courage that has defined her character for decades.

“She’s never been someone who dramatizes pain,” said one longtime friend. “But this was frightening. It forced her to dig deep — something Joanna rarely does.”

“I’m Fighting — But I Can’t Do It Alone”

In her most powerful statement, Lumley acknowledged both her determination and her vulnerability.

“I’m fighting,” she shared. “But I can’t do it alone.”

The words struck a chord across social media, where thousands of messages poured in within hours.

Followers, public figures, and fans from multiple generations expressed gratitude for her honesty — and admiration for her strength.

Medical experts said that recovery from a stroke is rarely linear.

Fatigue, emotional strain, and physical rehabilitation often accompany the healing process.

Lumley herself alluded to this reality, emphasizing patience and self-compassion as her fight goes through.

Surrounded by Family and Love

Friends describe Lumley as being surrounded by close family members and a small, trusted circle of lifelong companions.

The atmosphere, they say, is calm, supportive, and deeply loving — exactly what doctors recommend during early recovery.

“She draws enormous strength from the people around her,” another source explained. “She hates fuss. She rests. And she allows herself to be cared for.”

That shift, subtle yet profound, marks a new chapter for a woman long celebrated for her independence and resilience.

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A Life That Touched Millions

For decades, Joanna Lumley has been far more than a screen icon.

From unforgettable performances to tireless humanitarian work, she has consistently used her voice to advocate for others — refugees, veterans, environmental causes, and marginalized communities.

Now, supporters say, the world has an opportunity to give something back.

“She has spent her life comforting others,” one admirer wrote online. “Let her rest. She’s earned it.”

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Hope, Not Headlines

Those close to Lumley stress that this update is not about spectacle or sympathy, but connection.

There is no timetable for her return to public life, and no pressure for appearances or performances.

Recovery, they emphasize, is the priority.

In her own words, Lumley once described the meaning of something simple — and deeply human:

“Sometimes, what matters most on the road to healing is knowing you’re not alone.”

As messages of love continue to arrive from every corner of the globe, that truth feels unmistakably clear.

Joanna Lumley is not walking this road by herself — and she never has.