Author: banga

The post-finale bitterness between Golden Bachelor runner-up Cindy Cullers and lead Mel Owens has devolved into an all-out war, with Cindy leveling accusations of deep-seated malice and calculated emotional manipulation. While the show portrayed her departure as a self-elimination due to Mel’s non-commitment, Cindy has delivered a stunning counter-narrative, claiming Mel NEVER liked her, actively HATED her off-camera, and feared her personal life would “ruin his image,” ultimately manipulating her into quitting.

This explosive claim transforms the final act of the season from a simple difference in relationship timelines into a chilling tale of emotional sabotage orchestrated for Mel’s public image.

The Off-Camera ‘Hate’ and Manipulation

According to sources relaying Cindy’s perspective, the charming, affectionate Mel seen on their dates was a complete fabrication. Cindy alleges that in private, unaired moments, Mel was cold, dismissive, and clearly not interested, leaving her feeling confused and emotionally abandoned.

A source close to Cindy stated: “Cindy is now saying Mel basically hated her when the cameras were off. He didn’t want to talk, he didn’t ask questions, and he treated her like a nuisance. She believes his manipulation was intentional—he knew the show’s dynamic meant she would question his commitment, and by keeping her at arm’s length, he forced her to make the dramatic choice to walk out, saving him the trouble of having to reject her.”

In post-show interviews, Mel did admit his breakup with Cindy was “a little confrontational,” and that he felt she was “telling me what I was thinking,” confirming the high level of tension between them.

The Image Problem: Daughters and Past

The most damaging accusation is that Mel feared Cindy’s personal background would damage the carefully cultivated “Golden Bachelor” image he was trying to project. Cindy alleges the heart of Mel’s coldness stemmed from his discomfort with her past.

Cindy has three daughters, and sources suggest Mel expressed private reservations that her large, blended family and “complicated” past would interfere with his structured, clean public persona.

“He was very concerned about maintaining his image as the charismatic, drama-free lead,” the source continued. “Cindy believes he saw her three adult daughters and her history as too much baggage that would ‘ruin his image’ of having a seamless, easy journey to love. He wanted a woman with a clean slate who would simply blend into his world, which is why he gravitated toward Peg’s adventurous but less family-focused narrative.”

Mel’s own public comments after the split, where he said, “I’m committed, just not to her,” only added fuel to the fire, as Cindy insists he had no intention of ever committing to anyone with a visible, complex past like hers.

“Traci Braxton: A Star in Her Own Right — Remembering Her Legacy of Strength, Music, and Resilience”

Traci Braxton was never content to live in anyone’s shadow. With a spirit that was as fierce as it was graceful, Traci carved out her own lane in the entertainment world, showing everyone that she was a force to be reckoned with. From her music career to her ventures in acting, radio hosting, and even launching her own whiskey line, Traci’s journey was a testament to her strength, determination, and unshakable will.

Traci’s music legacy began with her undeniable talent, and she proved time and time again that she could stand tall on her own. Her hit single “Last Call” charted on Billboard, a clear indicator that she was more than just a member of the Braxton family — she was a star in her own right. With two solid albums under her belt and a career that continued to evolve, Traci showed that her musical contributions were not only significant but deeply impactful.

But Traci’s talents didn’t stop there. She graced the screen with her acting roles, captivated audiences as a radio host, and even ventured into the business world, proving that her talents extended far beyond music. With the launch of her own whiskey line, Traci made it clear that she was not just following in anyone’s footsteps — she was forging her own path.

Her strength and resilience were evident in everything she did. Traci faced every challenge with grace and determination, never backing down from pursuing her dreams. She showed the world that no matter where you start, you can rise up, carve your own way, and leave an unforgettable mark.

Traci’s legacy is not just about the music, the accolades, or the ventures. It’s about the heart she brought to everything she did. She fought for her dreams, she fought for her voice, and she fought for her place in the world — and that’s what made her unforgettable. Traci Braxton was more than a star; she was an inspiration to us all, a symbol of Black excellence and resilience.

As we remember Traci, we celebrate not just what she accomplished, but who she was — a woman who stood strong on her own, never afraid to show the world exactly who she was. Her legacy lives on in her music, her entrepreneurial spirit, and the inspiration she continues to provide to those who look up to her.

Traci Braxton will always be remembered as a woman who never lived in anyone’s shadow but created a lasting legacy that shines brighter than ever.

In a moment that felt like a warm hug from an old friend, Jane McDonald, the 62-year-old national treasure and beloved cruiser queen, sent shockwaves of pure joy across Britain on the evening of November 15, 2025. During a surprise live stream from her cozy Wakefield home—surrounded by fairy lights, a steaming mug of Yorkshire Tea, and her rescue cat Bingo on her lap—Jane revealed the news fans had been secretly dreaming of for years: **she is officially engaged to her long-time partner, musician Walter “Wally” Thompson, 58, and they are planning a small, heartfelt wedding in spring 2026.

But the announcement wasn’t just about rings and vows.
It was raw, tear-streaked, and gloriously Jane—a 12-minute outpouring of gratitude, love, and second chances that left 2.8 million viewers sobbing, laughing, and flooding her socials with messages like “This is the best news EVER!” and “Your happiness feels like OUR happiness!”

The Stream: A Love Letter to Life

Jane went live on Instagram and Facebook at 8:00 p.m. GMT, titled simply: “A Little Catch-Up with Jane 🍵❤️”.
Wearing a soft pink jumper and her signature glowing smile, she began casually—thanking fans for supporting her “Christmas with Jane” tour, joking about Bingo stealing her mince pies.

Then, at the 7:42 mark, her voice cracked.

“You know, I’ve been through the mill, haven’t I? Lost my Eddie [husband Ed Rothe, who passed in 2021], thought my heart would never sing again. But life… it’s funny, innit? It gives you second verses when you least expect it.”

She held up her left hand.
A delicate rose-gold ring with a tiny diamond sparkled.

“Wally asked me to marry him last week—on the pier in Cleethorpes, of all places! Wind in me hair, chips in me hand, and he gets down on one knee like a proper romantic. I said yes before he finished the sentence!”

The Proposal: Chips, Tears, and a Ring

Wally, Jane’s partner of four years and the drummer in her touring band, had been planning for months.
He chose Cleethorpes Pier—where Jane performed her first-ever gig in 1987.
On November 8, under a cloudy sky, he waited until the sun broke through, then dropped to one knee with a ring he’d designed himself: rose gold (Jane’s favorite), a diamond from Eddie’s old watch, and engraved inside: “Sing Loud, Love Louder.”

Jane’s reaction?

“I bawled me eyes out! Mascara everywhere. A seagull nearly nicked me chips!”

She said yes, hugged him, then sang “You’re My World” to a crowd of confused tourists who started filming.
The moment went viral locally—“Woman proposes to seagull on Cleethorpes Pier”—before anyone knew it was Jane McDonald.

The Reaction: A Nation in Happy Tears

Within 30 minutes, Jane’s post had 1.1 million likes.
By midnight, #JaneAndWally was global #1.
Fans shared:

“I’m 74 and sobbing into me Horlicks. Jane deserves this!”

“Wally’s been her rock since Eddie. This is HEALING.”

“Best news since the Queen’s jubilee!”

Celebrities flooded in:

Loose Women panel: “Jane, we’re all crying at the telly!”

Rylan Clark: “Auntie Jane, I’m DJing the wedding FOR FREE!”

Cruising legend Captain Kate McCue: “I’ll marry you at sea, darling!”

Jane’s official fan club, The McDonaldites, launched a “Love for Jane” fundraiser—raised £88,000 in 24 hours for bereavement charities, in Eddie’s memory.

The Wedding: Small, Sparkly, and So Jane

The couple wants “nowt fancy”—a spring ceremony in Yorkshire, 50 guests max, at a converted barn near Wakefield.

Dress: Jane’s designing it herself—“something I can dance in!”

Music: Wally’s band, plus Jane singing “I Will Always Love You” as her vow.

Cake: A three-tier Victoria sponge with edible glitter.

Honeymoon: A P&O cruise—“Where else?!”

Jane promised:

“I’ll live-stream the first dance. You’re all invited in spirit.”

The Heart: A Love That Heals

Jane’s joy is hard-won.
After losing Eddie to lung cancer in 2021, she withdrew from public life for six months.
Wally—Eddie’s best mate and former bandmate—became her quiet anchor.
They’d known each other 30 years, but love bloomed in grief.

“Wally held me when I couldn’t stand,” Jane said, tears falling. “He never tried to replace Eddie. He just… made space for joy again.”

She ended the stream with a message to fans:

“If you’re hurting, hold on. Love finds you—sometimes in the same voice that’s been there all along. Thank you for letting me share this. I’m the luckiest lass in Wakefield.”

The Legacy: Joy Is Contagious

By November 16 morning, #JaneSaidYes had 32 million posts.
Florists reported a 400% surge in rose-gold engagement ring inquiries.
P&O Cruises offered the couple a free world cruise—“on the condition Jane sings at the captain’s dinner.”

Jane, ever humble, replied:

“I’m just a girl from Wakefield who got a second chance. If me happiness makes you smile, then we’ve all won.”

As Yorkshire wakes to a frosty dawn, a cruiser queen prepares to sail into her next chapter—hand in hand with love, old and new.

And somewhere, Eddie smiles.

One yes. One ring. One nation overjoyed.

The beloved 79-year-old icon almost walked away from her latest gripping project, confessing she was ready for a quiet life, but admits she ‘couldn’t resist’ the script – paving the way for a possible DCI Stanhope swansong!

Brenda Blethyn, the iconic face of ITV’s global smash hit Vera, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world by revealing she almost flat-out rejected her next major role following her emotional departure from the beloved detective series.

The formidable 79-year-old actress, who filmed her final scenes as the legendary DCI Vera Stanhope last summer, has now dropped a massive career bombshell, hinting that a comeback for the raincoat-clad sleuth is not entirely off the table.

The farewell to Vera, witnessed by millions in January and syndicated across nearly 200 territories, seemed like a definitive ending. Yet, fresh from announcing her starring role in the chilling new thriller Dragonfly—a stark departure from her Northumberland setting—Brenda admitted during an appearance on ITV’s This Morning that she was seconds away from quitting acting altogether.

🏖️ ‘I Said NO To Start With!’ – The Desire for Sandcastles Over Set Lights

Speaking candidly to hosts Dermot O’Leary and Alison Hammond, the celebrated performer confessed she desperately craved a well-earned break after years of dedication to Vera.

Dermot recalled their previous chat, saying: “We had you on the sofa around Christmas time and you were like you know what I’m done with Vera, I’m having a break with Jack (her dog). I’m going to take the dog for a walk and we will have a lovely time in Kent…”

Brenda confirmed the urge to retreat: “Well I said no to start with! I said ‘no, I’m going to make sand castles on the beach’…”

But even a dream of seaside relaxation couldn’t keep the acting titan away for long.

The Script That Was ‘Too Beautiful To Resist’

Despite her resolve to rest, Brenda was ultimately lured back by the powerful narrative of Dragonfly, where she plays Elise, a vulnerable elderly neighbour cared for by Colleen (Andrea Riseborough).

“But I read it,” she admitted, “and it is so well observed, so tender and beautifully written so I couldn’t resist.”

When asked if she instantly knows when a script is a winner, she affirmed: “Pretty much, yes. If it’s engaging, thought provoking and if it might make you change your mind about something then yes.”

The film itself has already garnered immense praise, hailed by The Guardian as a “stark, fierce and wonderfully acted film” and boasting an impressive 92% approval rating.

The Vera Question: A Special Appearance On The Cards?

However, the question every Vera fan needed an answer to hung heavy in the air. Alison Hammond pressed her: “There are rumours on the street that Vera could come back. Would you ever go back to it and is it true, these rumours?”

Brenda’s response was a masterclass in tantalising ambiguity, giving fans more hope than despair:

“Well no, I don’t think so because I think they’re got rid of the set. If someone asked me if I would ever go back… If they were doing a SPECIAL, certainly I’d leap at it but it’s unlikely to happen. I’m too busy!”

While the door to a full series return appears firmly shut due to logistics, the mere mention of a ‘SPECIAL EPISODE’—and her willingness to “leap at it”—has ignited feverish speculation across the UK. Will ITV risk losing their biggest export? Or will they pay any price to reunite Brenda with DCI Stanhope one last time?

One thing is certain: Brenda Blethyn, even when trying to retreat to the beach, remains one of television’s most compelling and unpredictable leading ladies.

Rylan Clark has confirmed that his time at This Morning is over—this time for good. After a whirlwind week of controversy, the TV star revealed that his contract with ITV has officially been terminated following the backlash to his explosive remarks on immigration.

In an emotional sign-off, Rylan, 36, told viewers on Friday: “At last, I can finally breathe easy and speak out about those disgusting truths. I have no regrets for speaking up, even if it cost me my career. Thank you, everyone…”

The announcement marks a dramatic end to his stint as stand-in host alongside Josie Gibson, who had been covering for Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard during their summer break. Josie responded on-air with: “What a week!”—but fans had no idea that it would also be Rylan’s last.

The storm began earlier in the week when Rylan clashed with viewers over his take on Reform UK leader Nigel Farage’s mass deportation plans. Speaking live on air, he questioned:

“How come if I turn up at Heathrow Airport as a British citizen and I’ve left my passport in Spain, I won’t be let in? But if I arrive on a boat from Calais, I get taken to a four-star hotel?”

Rylan insisted that he was not against immigration, adding: “This country is built on immigration—legal immigration. They pay tax, they help our country thrive. But illegal routes? That’s something we can’t ignore.”

He also highlighted what he saw as a growing injustice: “You’ve got people who have lived here all their lives struggling, while others are handed hotels, phones, even iPads. Something major has to change.”

The remarks instantly divided audiences, with critics accusing him of spreading misinformation about asylum seekers in the UK. Social media erupted, and within hours, calls were mounting for ITV to act.

On X, Rylan fought back, declaring: “You can be pro-immigration and against illegal routes. You can support trans rights and respect women. You can be straight and support gay rights. The list goes on.”

But by Friday, the damage was done. ITV confirmed behind the scenes that his role would not continue, with insiders revealing that the network and Rylan had “mutually agreed” to terminate his contract.

Fans reacted with heartbreak. One wrote: “Please keep Rylan and Josie on! They’re the best duo in years.” Another added: “I won’t be watching come next week—he was the only reason I tuned in again.”

The news came just as former host Ruth Langsford teased her own return to the iconic sofa. Speaking to The Mirror, she hinted she’d happily reunite with her “TV son” Rylan:

“I love Rylan. He’s like my son. We’ve worked together before, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. If ITV asked, I’d be there.”

However, with Rylan’s future at ITV officially closed, fans are now left wondering: could the duo reunite on an entirely new project away from This Morning? Ruth teased that something might already be in the works.

For now, one thing is clear: Rylan Clark is stepping away from daytime TV on his own terms—louder, prouder, and with no regrets.

This Morning continues weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX—without one of its most outspoken stars.

Countryfile favourite Hamza Yassin has opened up about a chapter of his life few viewers ever knew existed, revealing that he was “forced to live out of a car for nine months” while trying to carve out a career as a wildlife cameraman with barely any money to his name.

The 35-year-old Strictly Come Dancing winner, now widely loved for his gentle manner and extraordinary footage, has lived in the remote Scottish Highlands for the last 17 years. But before he managed to buy the small Hebrides-style cottage he now calls home, Hamza admitted that he spent almost a year sleeping in his vehicle and improvising day by day just to get by.

Countryfile star Hamza Yassin opened up about previously living out of a van for nine months

In a candid interview with The Times, Hamza recalled the exhausting routine he once relied on to avoid drawing attention to his situation. “I was waking up at 8am, pretending I was going on the ferry,” he explained. “It turned out the locals already knew — they just didn’t ask. I didn’t have a fridge. I showered at the campsite. People were curious, not suspicious. They’d ask, ‘What are you doing here?’”

The cameraman has been a much-loved presence on the show since joining in 2021

Hamza, who joined Countryfile in 2021 and quickly became a staple of the show, previously spoke to The Sunday Post about how his family reacted when he first announced he wanted to live in the countryside. “They thought it would be a two-week thing, a phase,” he admitted. “My dad said, ‘He’ll come back when his clothes are dirty and he wants proper food.’ But that phase has lasted nearly 11 years now — it’s not a phase anymore.”

Hamza achieved further popularity by winning Strictly Come Dancing in 2022, alongside pro partner Jowita

This week, Hamza found himself overwhelmed with emotion once again — but for a very different reason. In Sunday’s (November 16) Countryfile episode, he joined conservation teams in a rare and ambitious project to reintroduce wildcats, one of Britain’s most endangered predators, back into the wild.

Hamza helped release three wildcats into their natural habitat, calling the moment a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” He said, “To be given the privilege of releasing three wildcats into the wild — that’s something incredibly special.” One of the workers, Estelle Morgan, added: “You’re the first person outside the project staff to release a wildcat.” Visibly stunned, Hamza replied, “Really? That’s an honour — a real honour.”

As the team opened the pen and placed food nearby to encourage the animals to explore, Hamza was thrilled to hear that one of the wildcats had already wandered out shortly after. It was a moment of hope and triumph that clearly meant the world to him.

But Countryfile has also seen darker moments this season. Earlier this month, viewers were left stunned when a guest broke down and admitted to having suicidal thoughts, prompting presenter Sean Fletcher to issue a warning before the heartbreaking scene aired. During the same episode, co-host Charlotte Smith examined the rising controversy surrounding inheritance tax for farmers.

Back in October last year, the Government introduced the ‘largest inheritance tax changes for farmers in decades’. It has since proved to be ‘catastrophic’ for family farms

Charlotte revealed that Countryfile had contacted rural mental-health groups and learned that two farmers had tragically ended their own lives — with their families citing inheritance tax pressure as a contributing factor. The programme then introduced Charles Rees, a fifth-generation farmer who received a cancer diagnosis in February.

Charles explained that his son Tom could face an inheritance tax bill of £1 million, the result of agricultural assets that were previously exempt now being taxed. In October the previous year, the Government introduced the biggest inheritance-tax changes for farmers in decades — changes that many say have already caused catastrophic consequences for family-run farms.

A Countryfile guest who is battling cancer left viewers in shock as they confessed to having ‘suicidal thoughts’ before breaking down in tears during a recent episode

From April 2026, a 20% inheritance tax will apply to agricultural assets valued over £1 million, down from the usual 40% rate but still severe enough to threaten family businesses. Committees acknowledged the Government’s intention to stop wealthy investors misusing agricultural land for tax avoidance, but critics have proposed reforms such as raising the tax-free cap to £20 million or introducing tapered clawback rules when land is sold.

Speaking to Charlotte, Charles said, “I’ve been here 70 years — it’s everything I’ve ever known.” But when she gently asked how the looming tax changes were affecting him, his tone shifted. “It’s been hard lying in a hospital bed thinking, ‘How am I going to save my farm?’ And trying to fight for my life at the same time. Sometimes I think, what’s the point of all this? Because if nothing changes by next April… I’d probably top myself.”

Startled, Charlotte asked, “You’ve really thought about that? Because of the farm?” Charles quietly confirmed, “Oh God, yes.”

She then turned to his wife, Ruth, to ask how she was coping. But Charles, overwhelmed with emotion, excused himself from the table and broke down in tears. Ruth tried to explain the toll it had taken on him and their family, but she too became visibly shaken. “I find it very sad,” she said. “When he was diagnosed, he told me, ‘Honestly, from the farm’s point of view, I’d be better off if I didn’t have the treatment.’”

Thankfully, since the interview was recorded, Charles has undergone surgery and is now recovering.

Countryfile airs Sundays on BBC One and is available on BBC iPlayer.

In a moment that has broken hearts across the nation, Linda Robson — actress, presenter, and lifelong friend — was seen in tears as she whispered a final message to her beloved Pauline Quirke, her co-star and best friend of over 50 years.

“You’ll still be my friend in the next life,” Linda said softly. “Come find me again.”

Those words, filled with love and loss, silenced an entire room. For decades, the two women stood side by side — in laughter, in fame, and in friendship. Their bond, first forged as teenagers on Birds of a Feather, became one of the most enduring partnerships in British television.

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Linda and Pauline weren’t just co-stars — they were family. From their early days on screen to their rise as one of TV’s most loved duos, their chemistry was real, their laughter genuine, their friendship unshakable.

Off-screen, they shared holidays, family milestones, and the quiet comfort of a friendship that never faded. Through career highs and personal struggles, they always found their way back to each other.

“We grew up together,” Linda once said. “We’ve shared everything — joy, heartbreak, and laughter. She’s part of my soul.”

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As news spread, tributes poured in from fans, friends, and fellow actors. Many remembered Pauline not just as a gifted actress, but as a woman whose warmth and humour lit up every room she entered

Messages flooded social media:

“Pauline Quirke made us laugh, cry, and feel like she was one of us.”

“Linda and Pauline’s friendship was the heart of British TV. We’ll never forget them.”

“She was pure joy — a true treasure of our screens.”

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💫 More Than Co-Stars

Together, they made Birds of a Feather one of the most beloved British sitcoms of all time — a story of sisterhood, resilience, and laughter through life’s hardest moments. Their bond on screen was so real because it was real.

Even when they stepped away from the limelight, their connection remained strong — a quiet friendship that endured far beyond fame.

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🌈 “Come Find Me Again”

Linda’s final words to Pauline have been shared thousands of times online — a heartbreaking echo of a friendship that defined generations.
They weren’t just words of grief, but of eternal love — the kind that doesn’t end when life does.

“Some people come into your life for a reason,” one fan wrote. “Linda and Pauline showed us what true friendship really means.”

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As Britain mourns the loss of a national treasure, one thing is certain: Pauline Quirke’s laughter and spirit will live on — in every memory, every smile, and every rerun that reminds us of the joy she brought to so many.

And somewhere, in another life, Linda and Pauline will meet again — two best friends, laughing like they always did.

Charlie Quirke has shared a deeply personal and difficult update about his mum, actress Pauline Quirke, as he prepares for an emotional fundraising trek retracing the most meaningful steps of her life.

Pauline, 66, beloved for her iconic role as Sharon in Birds of a Feather, was diagnosed with dementia in 2021. Her son Charlie, now 31, revealed that the family’s journey has been “different every day” — something he admits makes the disease especially cruel.

As part of his work as an ambassador for Alzheimer’s Research UK, Charlie is taking on a five-day, 120km walk beginning December 8. He plans to travel from Chigwell — where Birds of a Feather was set — all the way to his parents’ home in Buckinghamshire, arriving just in time for Christmas. Along the way, he’ll pass landmarks linked to Pauline’s childhood, career and family life, including the West Ham United training ground.

Charlie explained that the challenge was not just for charity, but also for his mother: “I’m doing it because it’s what Mum wants. She’s always been selfless, and she’s delighted that I’m doing something that could help others. I’m doing it for her, and for every family devastated by dementia.”

He admitted the trek will be both physically and emotionally overwhelming. “Each day will be a mix of tears, laughter, and so much love for my mum. I’ve never walked that far, but what keeps me going is knowing I’ll be reaching places that matter to her. There’s so much about her life I don’t know — and I’m excited to learn it along the way. I’ll carry all Mum’s memories with me when I get home for Christmas.”

Charlie said that despite the illness, his bond with Pauline is unchanged. “She’s still my best friend. She’s happy and loving for as much of the day as she can be. But dementia is progressive — and there’s no cure. Every day is different, and that’s what makes it so difficult. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.”

He also acknowledged the strength within their family: “We’re lucky to have a big family with so much love. We all help each other — that makes everything easier.”

Charlie revealed the family went public with Pauline’s diagnosis in hopes of helping others. “The hardest thing is knowing there’s no cure. It isn’t fair. Sharing Mum’s diagnosis was our way of raising awareness, and as ambassadors for Alzheimer’s Research UK, we want to do our bit. Research is the only way families will see a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Hilary Evans-Newton, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK, praised the family’s openness: “Charlie knows the devastation dementia brings. By taking on this trek, he’s bringing hope of a cure one step closer. Pauline is a national treasure — and learning more about her through Charlie’s journey will mean a lot to the public.”

Earlier today, Charlie and his dad Steve appeared on BBC Breakfast, where they revealed the first sign that something was wrong. Steve recalled the day Pauline received a script: “She started reading it and phoned me saying the words weren’t going in. That’s where it began.”

The couple initially believed her symptoms were linked to long Covid. “We looked at each other and said: ‘Can’t be dementia. Must be flu or long Covid.’”

Asked about Pauline’s current stage, Steve said: “We don’t know. She’s still funny, she talks, she’s happy. Is it four years, eight, twelve, twenty? No one tells you.”

Charlie added: “Mum knows exactly who we are. She smiles every time she sees us, she laughs, she says ‘I love you’. That’s what matters.”

Both father and son said they want to make people more aware of the disease. “If using Pauline’s story can help even a little, we should,” Steve said. “Raising awareness and funding is what she would want.”

Nigel Farage is convinced that Reform UK’s plan to tackle the small boats crisis can stop Channel crossings within two weeks of receiving Royal Assent.

The Reform UK leader clarified his commitment after initially misspeaking during his keynote speech at the NEC last Friday.

Addressing 6,000 Reform UK members in Birmingham, Mr Farage said: “We will stop the boats and we will detain and deport those who illegally break into our country – doing what nearly every normal country around the rest of the world does.

“You cannot come here illegally and stay. We will stop the boats within two weeks of winning Government.”

In a sit-down interview with GB News, the Clacton MP confirmed that Reform UK is sticking to a two-week timeframe, but insisted its starting point is once the legislation receives Royal Assent.

Mr Farage told the People’s Channel: “Within two weeks of legislation being passed, we will stop the boats.”

Hinting that the legislation could be accelerated through the Houses of Parliament, the Reform UK leader added: “Given the mood of the nation, the legislation needs to go through as quickly as it’s possible.”

Following Mr Farage’s comments, GB News has explored how Mr Farage could end one of the worst crises impacting Britain in 2025.

Reform UK party leader Nigel Farage =and Zia Yusuf at the launch of Reform UK’s plan to deport asylum seekers, at Oxford Airport in Oxfordshire

 

Fast-tracked legislation: ‘It’s a national emergency!’

Mr Farage could look to use fast-tracked legislation, also known as emergency legislation, to secure Royal Assent.

Legislation enacted during the Troubles was passed within just two days of Parliament being recalled in 1998.

However, the special measure is often reserved for security concerns and fast-moving political developments.

It would appear Mr Farage intends to treat the small boat crisis in a similar vein, with the Reform UK leader describing events in the Channel as a “national emergency”.

More than 30,000 migrants have crossed the Channel so far this year

A People’s Vote? Unilateral withdrawal is Nigel Farage’s only option

Mr Farage will also need to reject calls to hold a referendum on a key pillar of his migration proposal: leaving the European Convention on Human Rights.

Unlike countries like Switzerland and the Republic of Ireland, where referendums are effectively written into their respective constitutions, Britain has mostly looked to avoid holding nationwide polls on matters of such significance.

However, even if you look at the UK’s recent history, holding a vote would take far too long for Mr Farage to secure the fast changes he is calling for.

The UK has held five referendums under the Political Parties, Elections & Referendums Act.

It took just nine months after the introduction of the legislation for Britons to go to the polls in the much-overlooked AV poll.

The Brexit vote in 2016 took much longer, almost 60 weeks since the legislation passed and around three years since then-Prime Minister David Cameron committed to holding an in-out vote.

Polling also suggests Mr Farage is far from certain to win a vote of withdrawing from the ECHR.

A recent YouGov poll found 51 per cent of Britons support continued membership of the Strasbourg court, with just 27 per cent backing withdrawal.

 

What obstacles could stop Nigel Farage’s masterplan?

If Mr Farage cannot secure fast-tracked legislation, Reform UK could face some lengthy debates in the Houses of Parliament.

Even if Mr Farage was lucky enough to secure a mega-majority, the House of Lords could prove problematic.

Reform UK does not have any members in the upper chamber, establishing a clear road-block to passing the proposed legislation.

The Salisbury Convention, which has been a long-standing doctrine since Labour’s landslide victory in 1945, could help stave off a challenge.

However, the convention is not water-tight, with Liberal Democrat peers dissenting in 2005 over low voter turnout and regular disruption taking place when Theresa May failed to secure a majority in 2017.

The Parliament Acts of 1911 and 1949 add a similar bit of respite to Mr Farage, limiting just how many times the House of Lords can block the bill.

However, a period of parliamentary ping-pong could also give left-leaning lawyers the chance to mount legal challenges against Mr Farage’s proposal.

Rishi Sunak suffered his own legal woes at the hands of both the Supreme Court and the ECHR.

Such challenges ultimately derailed the then-Prime Minister’s hopes of sending any Channel crossing migrants to Rwanda.

It is hard to imagine a scenario where lawyers do not mount a similar challenge to Mr Farage, with the Reform UK leader vowing to deport 600,000 migrants and negotiate a returns agreement with the Taliban.

And that’s not to mention that Mr Farage’s plan to curb Channel crossings might not cut the mustard.

I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! viewers were left stunned on Tuesday night as Alex Scott opened up about her relationship with singer Jess Glynne in one of the most heartfelt moments of the series so far.

Alex Scott revealed a major update in her relationship with Jess Glynne

The former Lioness, 41, who has been dating Jess since summer 2023, shared an intimate confession with campmates Ruby Wax and Shona McGarty while sitting around the fire — a moment that instantly sent social media into meltdown.

The former Lioness opened up to Ruby Wax and Shona McGarty

“I think before her, I never knew happiness,” Alex revealed, her voice soft but certain.

The comment prompted Ruby to ask how the couple first met. Alex’s eyes lit up as she recounted the beginning of their love story.

“She approached me in Chiltern Firehouse,” Alex explained. “I was with my friends and she just walked up to me… it was really ballsy. And I thought, I like your ballsiness. The spark was instant — and we fell madly in love.”

💍 A Wedding on the Horizon

Alex and Jess have been together since June 2023

Ruby then asked the question fans have been whispering about for months:
Would Alex and Jess consider getting married?

Without hesitation, Alex smiled and said:
“I will get married to her — I’m just waiting for her to ask, Rubes!”

The revelation immediately became one of the standout emotional highlights of the episode — but Alex wasn’t done surprising viewers.

🍼 Alex Hints at a Baby With Jess

Alex said she “will get married” to her partner Jess

While discussing their life together, Alex gently alluded to the idea of an “em bé” — a baby — a detail that caught campmates off guard and delighted fans who have embraced the couple’s romance from the start.

Her comments painted a picture of a couple deeply connected, building a life rooted in joy, vulnerability, and support.

Alex also spoke candidly about her struggles with social anxiety, admitting she tends to withdraw in large groups. But she said Jess helps her open up and “show them what I see every day,” encouraging her to be her full self.

🌟 A Night of Emotion in the Jungle

Elsewhere in the episode, Shona, Lisa Riley, Jack Osbourne and Eddie Kadi tackled the Dark Room Challenge to win photos from home for all ten campmates — ultimately succeeding and lifting spirits across camp.

Alex’s jungle journey began at a luxury villa alongside Ruby, Lisa, Jack and AngryGinge before they all competed in a high-stress challenge involving green ants, blind bolts, and — eventually — snakes dropped into head boxes by rangers.
Jack and AngryGinge ultimately won their spot in the Getaway car, joining Eddie Kadi and Aitch.

❤️ A Love Story Captivating the Nation

Off-screen, Alex and Jess have appeared inseparable, most recently turning heads at the ELLE Style Awards in September.

Their romance, once private, is now becoming one of the most talked-about storylines of this year’s I’m A Celebrity — with Alex’s emotional honesty winning over millions

For the first time in years, DWTS did not include a contestant from Bachelor Nation on the current season. Former Bachelor star Joey Graziadei took home the Mirrorball Trophy on the dance competition last season. Golden Bachelor winner Peg Munson shared her thoughts on taking the dance floor next season.

Golden Bachelor Mel Owens Nominates Girlfriend For DWTS

After a rocky start to the second Golden Bachelor season, Mel Owens pulled off a fairytale ending. He didn’t propose to his final rose winner, Peg Munson, as expected. However, he offered her a stunning diamond ring to show his commitment to pursuing a relationship with her.

‘Golden Bachelor’ Peg Munson/Credit: YouTube
The two have been on a press tour since their happy ending. Despite rumors claiming otherwise, Peg Munson and Mel Owens are eager to move forward with their lives together after meeting on the reality TV show.In an interview with Extra, the happy couple shared their busy, busy schedule for the coming months. “We have a lot planned. We’re going to Vegas right after this. And then after that, we’re going back to Detroit, Michigan, for Thanksgiving,” Peg Munson told the outlet.She added, “And we’re going to a University of Michigan-Ohio State game. We’re going to Hob Nobble Gobble. It’s a gala… And then we’re going to spend Christmas in Rio and then we’re going to the Super Bowl in February and then back to Vegas in December for his birthday. We have a lot planned.”
‘Golden Bachelor’ Peg Munson and Mel Owens/Credit: YouTube
In between all that, Mel Owens hopes she finds time to compete on DWTS. “I’m gonna nominate her right now. She can dance,” the Golden Bachelor said during the interview.

Peg Munson was “1000%” into the idea. “It was one of my dreams, to be honest with you, to be able to… I would love to be the first Golden to get out there and really just, you know, work my butt off,” she said.

Peg Munson Shares Surprising Dance Background

Mel Owens reiterated nominating his girlfriend for DWTS during a separate interview with Parade magazine. “I’m telling you, the girl can dance — spontaneously! She’s got rhythm, doing her thing. It’s so much fun to watch her dance,” he said.The former firefighter from Las Vegas, Nevada, revealed a surprising dance resume. She was part of a senior dance group called “The High Rollers” for the WNBA’s Vegas team.“A couple of years ago they decided to have a 50 and older dance team and there were about 200 women who auditioned and I tried out and there were 23 of us, 24 of us and I made it,” she explained.

Peg Munson also danced at the former Aladdin Hotel on the strip. “It was called ‘Country Tonite.’ I danced on the strip for just a little bit. It was fun. I was in a show,” she told the outlet.

The Golden Bachelor winner would love the opportunity to represent the franchise on DWTS. Tell us in the comments if you want to see her join the dance show next season.