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Alex Brooker has exclusively revealed to the Mirror that he can’t see himself appearing on Strictly Come Dancing any time soon – thanks to Chris McCausland

Alex Brooker has opened up about ruling out Strictly and his return to Soccer Aid

Alex Brooker has revealed he wouldn’t stand a chance on Strictly Come Dancing after pal Chris McCausland won the show. Actor and comedian Chris made history when he became the first blind person to appear on the show in December last year.

Defying the odds, McCausland went on to win the competition with his dance partner, Australian beauty Dianne Buswell. But Alex now admits thanks to Chris, he can’t participate on the programme as he wouldn’t be as good as the comedian.

Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, Alex said: “I’ll be honest with you, I said this on Last Leg at New Year when we had Chris McCausland on, I said it to him direct, the first time I saw Chris on Strictly, I said it was the best thing I’d seen. It blew my mind how he did it. The word inspiration is thrown around loads with disabled people.

“I get called inspirational if I open a can of drink, it’s always knocking about but it inspired me so much. I said ‘This guy is incredible,’ that’s phenomenal. I was so delighted he won. However, with that, he’s ruined it for any disabled person who goes on after that because none of us will ever be as good as that.”

Alex admits while he could see himself progressing on Strictly, he’d never be able to compete against Chris McCausland(Image: Andy Stenning/Daily Mirror)

The broadcaster, 40, went on to joke: “I could go on Strictly, do a load of weeks on there, hold up the dancer with one hand doing the Foxtrot and still people will go ‘Yeah, Chris McCausland did the whole thing and he couldn’t see’, there’s no better than Chris for me with Strictly.”

But Chris isn’t Alex’s only pal to appear on the show – comedian Josh Widdicombe appeared on the Christmas special last year, dancing to Let It Snow with Karen Hauer, while dressed as a penguin. This speared Alex on after Josh couldn’t resist flashing his ripped physique.

He said: “Josh Widdicombe is one of my best mates, watching him on the Christmas special was a joy. Dressed as a penguin, I couldn’t have asked for any more from it as a viewer, let alone as one of his pals. He was so good but honestly, you should see the shape he got in.

Chris made history by becoming the first blind contestant and went on to win the programme(Image: PA)

“He’d come into Last Leg and he was showing me his abs during training, he’s got a tidy body on him. He was dancing five hours a day, he got absolutely ripped and he still is. From that point of view, I could do with that training regime in the run up to Soccer Aid this year.”

Last year, Alex appeared on ITV’s The Masked Singer as Bigfoot which he hadn’t even told his daughters about. Speaking about their reaction, Alex said: “Last year with The Masked Singer, my girl’s reaction to that is still phenomenal when I got unmasked.” Previously, he’s appeared on the I’m A Celebrity spin-off show which made him decide never to participate on the main show.

During his time on the show, alongside Joe Swash, he competed in a mini Bushtucker Trial – attempting to see how many fish eyes he could fit in his mouth. He said: “In terms of Bushtucker Trials, that’s not even touching the sides. I was ill for like a whole day after that, I’m not so sure I’m cut out for it. The good thing for me, Last Leg is always on at the same time as I’m A Celebrity. Maybe one day if our schedule changes, maybe.”

His pal Josh Widdicombe (left) also appeared on Strictly and had an impressive transformation (Image: Getty Images for The National Lo)

This year, Alex is returning to Soccer Aid for UNICEF for the fourth time and will be playing alongside the likes of Louis Tomlinson, Tom Grennan, Jill Scott, Sam Thompson and Toni Duggan. “I love it, I really do love it,” he said of making his return, adding that he doesn’t take “it for granted” when he’s asked back.

He added: “I treat every time I’ve played as if it’ll be the only time I get to do it. It’s the best thing I do all year, apart from stuff with my family – it’s awesome. I cannot wait for it, I can’t wait to see everyone at training week.

“It’s a little family that you get to see for a week every year, the event itself is just phenomenal, it’s always blown my mind watching it.” Alex said he remembered seeing footballing legend Diego Maradona playing and realising how unique the event actually is.

“I remember watching the one when Ben Shephard was sent off and shouting at the telly ‘You can’t send him off’, the mix of people you get,” he said, adding: “You’ve got someone like me who’s wearing Number 14 and you’ve got someone like Theo Walcott on the England team wearing Number 14.

“We’re very different physiques and I would say very much opposite ends of the speed scale. It’s this wonderful unique event for the best cause in UNICEF. Last year we went past the £106 million mark in terms of money raised, so to be part of something that’s had such a massive difference to people and continues to, it’s awesome.”

This year, Alex returns to Soccer Aid for the fourth time and admits its one of the highlights of his year(Image: ©UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures)

The family aspect of Soccer Aid is hugely important to Alex, noting that family friendly telly shows are “few and far between these days”. Another aspect he loves is the mix of famous faces who take part, including American social media star Noah Beck, who left Brooker’s little siblings “so excited.”

“There’s something for everyone with Soccer Aid,” he said before adding: “The cause itself and the money raised. Two years ago I got to go away with UNICEF on one of their trips and we went to a disaster refugee camp in Jordan and I got to see first hand myself, the difference that UNICEF’s work makes to children, the most vulnerable people. The fact that UNICEF is there for everyone all around the world.

“I don’t think there can be a better cause than helping out young kids, I just don’t think there is. The amount of kids that get to come out and watch it here, the fact they’re in the grounds and the money raised from that, it helps children everywhere.”

Alex who was born with defects of his hands and arms and a twisted right leg which led to an amputation is a fierce campaigner for inclusivity. Now, he admits that things are “progressing” for inclusivity but admits that “any meaningful change takes time.”

He admits that you “cannot underestimate” the difference to his own childhood compared to children nowadays. Alex commented: “I think that things are moving in the right direction, there’s still a way to go but I feel like for younger people, the opportunities.

“Through Last Leg I worked closely with the Paralympics – the open days for young people to try sports. When I was 13, I remember discovering disability football through just going to an open day at my local leisure centre.

“It’s the first time I’d ever done sports with other disabled people or even being around other disabled people. That was massive for me – the fact that those opportunities are so widespread now is huge.”

Alex is often inundated with messages from parents of children with disabilities who praise him for participating in Soccer Aid as they feel “represented”. He said: “It’s a tough one for me, playing football isn’t an easy thing for me to do. It’s something I was openly discouraged from doing when I was a kid by Doctors.

“There’s a reason for it, my body isn’t kind of made out for football as much as I wish it was but to be involved and to represent disabled people, I’m never going to be able to do anything more important than that. Obviously you’re doing it for this amazing cause, I get so much out of it.

“One of the reasons why I’m so excited is, I love being a part of it, just a small part of something so huge – that’s why it’s the best thing that I do.”

The match takes place on Sunday 15th of June at Old Trafford, Manchester, with adult tickets priced at £20 and juniors from £10. Tickets are available now on the Soccer Aid for UNICEF website.

EastEnders legend Natalie Cassidy has been left enraged over the fact her food shop got cancelled after her bank card got declined – completely ruining her plans for an Easter Sunday lunch

Natalie Cassidy was left fuming when her Easter food shop got cancelled(Image: Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty Images)

Natalie Cassidy’s Easter plans became a food shop hell as her planned delivery was cancelled when her bank card was declined. The 41-year-old EastEnders icon was left hopping mad when a delivery she organised via grocery delivery service Ocado failed to turn up as planned.

Natalie – who bowed out of EastEnders this month after playing Sonia Fowler on the BBC soap since 1993 – had been pleased with herself when she organised a food shop when she had been on holiday. She had selected a delivery time for the morning of Easter Sunday so she would have fresh ingredients to whip up a delicious roast dinner.

But disaster struck on the Christian holiday as her delivery failed to turn up and she was then told the order had been automatically cancelled. Natalie initially raged against Ocado, blaming them for the screw up – only to later be told her delivery was cancelled because her card had been declined.

Taking to Instagram Stories on Sunday, Natalie described her ordeal to her followers – and tagged Ocado directly in her video post. Barely containing her fury, the soap star began: “Happy Easter Sunday everybody. I’ve been a bit quiet because we’ve been on holiday. Lots of lovely things about holiday to follow.”

She continued: “I just thought I’d pop on because two weeks ago, I was really organised and I did an Ocado shop because I thought, ‘Well, I’m away. The food can come between half seven and eight in the morning and I can do a mega roast for all the family.’”

The EastEnders star lashed out at Ocado over the incident – which was ultimately her fault(Image: @natcass1/instagram)

With her face screwed up in anger, she then spat: “Cancelled. The’ve cancelled it. Now, you might say, ‘Well, of course they have. It’s Easter Sunday.’ But why did they allow me to book it?”

Anger building inside, the TV star raged at the camera: “Why did they send me a text message on Friday saying, ‘You can add to your basket until 5:27 PM. Everything’s coming half seven to half eight Sunday morning.’”

Sounding very disappointed, she concluded her rant by asking: “Anyone done this? Or is it just me? Just wondered. Asking for a friend. Happy Easter.”

Two hours later, Natalie returned to Instagram Stories to give an update, and appeared indignant when she leaned that it was the fault of her finances that had led to a dramatic change in Easter lunch plans.

She began: “Update on the food as you’re all asking. We’re having a barbecue. Burgers, sausages. Mark’s been out to a Sainsbury’s local. Loads of baked potatoes. Loads of onions. Loads of bits and pieces. It’s not quite the Easter roast that I would love to do. But it’ll have to do.”

She then revealed: “Ocado came back and said my card was declined. Well, you haven’t told me that though. You haven’t let me know. Anyway. Hope you all have a lovely day.”

Natalie has been in a relationship with cameraman Marc Humphreys since 2014 and they share an eight-year-old daughter together – while the actress has a second daughter from a previous relationship. The couple have been engaged since 2015 but are seemingly in no rush to swap vows.

Nat previously told the Memory Lane podcast: “Do you know what? It’s a lot of money. No, I tell you what it is; it’s time and budget. It is because I go, ‘I’ll only do something small; I don’t need to.’

“I will do it small but I want to be at The Ledbury. Oh, I want a Michelin star meal or I’m just a bit of a snob genuinely. I’ll want the best flowers and I will want a designer suit.”

Irish actor Colin Farrell was seen for the first time since he emotionally opened up about his decision to place his adult disabled son James in a long-term care facility

Colin Farrell looks downcast as he’s seen for first time since son’s care revelation(Image: Terma, SL / BACKGRID)

Hollywood actor Colin Farrell looked sombre as he was spotted grabbing a coffee in Los Feliz, California, on Friday after emotionally sharing his decision to place his son James, 21, in a long-term adult care facility.

The Penguin actor, currently busy filming Series 2 of his Apple TV+ show Sugar, was seen picking up three coffees from a local café in his neighbourhood. Colin, 48, sported a casual look as he donned a deep V-neck T-shirt and plaid trousers, paired with Adidas trainers for the coffee run.

The dad-of-two completed his look with a camouflage headband and subtle gold and silver jewellery. Colin kept a low profile as he stood with his arms crossed, waiting by the coffee window before collecting his order.

Colin’s outing on Friday follows his decision to publicly discuss his decision to place his adult son James, 21, adult disabled son into care. He explained that he wants to ensure his son’s care is properly managed while he and his ex-partner are still alive, and to provide him with a strong sense of community.

The Hollywood actor launched The Colin Farrell Foundation last year (Image: Terma, SL / BACKGRID)

The Golden Globe-winning actor had previously divulged that James was initially misdiagnosed with cerebral palsy, before disclosing his correct diagnosis of Angelman syndrome in 2007. This rare genetic disorder, which affects the nervous system and causes significant physical and intellectual disabilities, has seen James face considerable challenges, including being non-verbal, issues with movement, irregular breathing, and epilepsy.

Despite the likelihood of those with Angelman syndrome having a relatively normal lifespan, constant care is necessary. Colin, alongside James’ mother Kim Bordenave, has chosen professional care for their son. In an emotional revelation, Colin expressed his fear of leaving James without adequate support if tragedy were to strike him or Kim.

He shared: “It’s tricky, some parents will say ‘I want to take care of my child myself’ and I respect that,” adding, “But my horror would be… What if I have a heart attack tomorrow, and, God forbid, James’ mother, Kim, has a car crash and she’s taken too – and then James is on his own?”

The Hollywood actor launched The Colin Farrell Foundation last year (Image: Terma, SL / BACKGRID)

During the emotional chat with Candis Magazine, the Irish actor revealed his fears: “Then he’s a ward of the state and he goes where? We’d have no say in it.” Colin and Kim are now on a mission to find a place for their son James to live “now while we’re still alive and healthy” so they can be involved in his life, take him out, and ensure he’s happy.

He expressed his heartfelt wish: “We want him to find somewhere where he can have a full and happy life, where he feels connected.” Last year, Colin shared the struggles surrounding James’ health issues and the initial wrong diagnosis he received.

The star explained to PEOPLE magazine the confusion between James’ condition and cerebral palsy, noting: “[James] couldn’t sit up. He wasn’t crawling. I think he was a year and a half when we took him to get really checked out, and he was diagnosed as having cerebral palsy.”

Cerebral palsy, as defined by the NHS, is a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood, often due to brain damage before or at birth. Colin recounted the tough journey: “It was a common misdiagnosis, because it shared a lot of the same characteristics. And that was a downer for sure.”

Colin Farrell’s son has a rare condition(Image: The Ellen Show)

The correct diagnosis came when James was about two and a half years old, after a paediatric neurologist suggested testing for Angelman syndrome. The revelation brought new concerns for Colin about his son’s quality of life and potential pain. Colin opened up about the moment he questioned a doctor regarding his son’s rare condition, recalling: “I remember the first two questions I asked were, ‘What’s the life expectancy and how much pain is involved?’,” and the reassuring response he received: “And the doctor said, ‘Life expectancy, as far as we can tell, is the same for you and for me, and pain, no.’”.

Colin launched the Colin Farrell Foundation last year to support adults with intellectual disabilities like his son James. He expressed concern that once James turned 21, he would be “kind of on his own” due to the lack of protections afforded to younger individuals with disabilities.

In a deeply personal chat with InStyle back in 2012, Colin Farrell shared the poignant milestones in his son’s life: “We share in the smallest victories; the first words at age six or seven, being able to feed oneself at 19, and getting the seizures under control. When James took his first steps at age four, I nearly broke in half!”

Fast forward to 2021, Farrell took legal steps for him and Kim to become conservators for James, aiming to have a say over important aspects of his care and life decisions – from his education and health care to his social interactions and even matters of the heart.

Barbie actress Nicola Coughlan publicly made a show of support against the Supreme Court ruling on the legal definition of a woman and raises over £100k for trans charity

Nicola Coughlan helps to raise more than £100,000 for trans charity(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Neu)

Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan shared with fans that she has helped to raise more than £100,000 for a trans rights charity following the Supreme Court ruling on the definition of a woman.

The Derry Girls and Barbie star, who has fast become of one of Hollywood’s elite said she was left “completely horrified” by the judgement of the court that stated the terms “woman” and “sex” in the 2010 Equality Act, refer to a biological woman and biological sex.

Nicola, 38, originally from Galway, Ireland said she would match donations of up to £10,000 for the transgender charity Not A Phase. The charity has now raised £103,018 but has a target of £110,000. Nicola has always been a staunch supporter of the LGBT+ community.

Taking to Instagram, she posted: “Nearly 100k thanks to you kind and brilliant people so delighted for Not A Phase”. The ruling means that transgender women with a gender certificate can be excluded from single-sex spaces if “proportionate.”

And this may explain why the Hollywood star felt compelled to hit back at Harry Potter creator JK Rowling after she posted a selfie celebrating the ruling.

Nicola Coughlan helps to raise more than £100,000 for trans charity(Image: nicolacoughlan/Instagram)

The author of Harry Potter has made no secret of her views regarding gender over recent years, which is why she shared with fans on X, her joy over the ruling last week. Sat on what appears to be a super yacht with a cigar in hand, the Harry Potter star captioned her post saying: “I love it when a plan comes together.”

And in another post she reportedly wrote: “It took three extraordinary, tenacious Scottish women with an army behind them to get this case heard by the Supreme Court and, in winning, they’ve protected the rights of women and girls across the UK. @ForWomenScot, I’m so proud to know you.”

Seemingly fuming at JK’s post, Nicola shared an article headline that read: “This is a new low for JK Rowling’.” This came before taking a swipe the author and the upcoming Harry Potter TV series. She said: “Keep your new Harry Potter lads. Wouldn’t touch it with a 10ft pole.”

JK Rowling caused a major stir after celebrating court ruling against trans women(Image: X)

When the ruling was announced to the world, Nicola shared a video of the “stomach-churning” decision. She said: “To see an already marginalised community being further attacked and attacked in law is really stomach churning and disgusting, and to see people celebrate it is more stomach-churning and disgusting.”

She continued: “Make your voice heard and let your trans and non-binary friends and the community at large know that you are there for them and will keep fighting for them.”

Five judges took on the responsibility of deciding whether the legal understanding of ‘woman’ includes trans women with gender recognition certificates (GRC).

Speaking of the ruling, Lord Hodge said: “The terms “woman” and “sex”, in the Equality Act 2010, refer to a biological woman and biological sex. But we counsel against reading this judgement as a triumph of one or more groups in our society at the expense of another, it is not.”

He added: “The Equality Act 2010 gives transgender people protection, not only against discrimination through the protected characteristic of gender reassignment, but also against direct discrimination, indirect discrimination and harassment in substance in their acquired gender.”

Brooklyn Beckham was the subject of a tribute post by his wife Nicola Peltz Beckham this weekend amid more rumours of tension within their family after Victoria Beckham’s birthday

Nicola Peltz Beckham paid tribute to her husband Brooklyn Beckham in a post this weekend(Image: @nicolaannepeltzbeckham/Instagram)

Actress Nicola Peltz Beckham has shared her support for her husband Brooklyn Beckham this week. It comes amid further rumours of tension within his family following their failure to publicly mark Victoria Beckham’s birthday on social media.

Nicola, 30, and Brooklyn, 26 – who celebrated their third wedding anniversary earlier this month – have been known to pay tribute to each other in posts on social media over the years. Nicola posted about her husband once again on Instagram this morning in another gushing post.

In a post on her Instagram Story, she shared a photo of Brooklyn beside a bouquet of pink roses. Alongside it, she wrote: “I love you so much you’re my best friend in the whole world.” Brooklyn later shared the post on his own account.

It comes less than two weeks on from the couple’s wedding anniversary, which they both celebrated on the platform. Nicola and Brooklyn shared photos from their nuptials alongside captions about each other at the time.

Brooklyn wrote: “Happy 3 year anniversary baby. I love you with all my heart. I’m so lucky I get to spend everyday with you and wake up to your beautiful face everyday.” He added in his post: “You are my world. I love you so much Nicola.”

Nicola said in her post: “Happy anniversary baby! I can’t believe it’s been three years since this day – I love you with all my heart and promise to always have your back. I can’t wait for forever with you. Thank you for being the most incredible husband I could ever dream of. I love you a million times over.”

Nicola Peltz Beckham paid tribute to her husband Brooklyn Beckham, pictured, in a post on Instagram this morning(Image: @brooklynpeltzbeckham/Instagram)

It has previously been reported that his parents Victoria, 51, and David Beckham, 49, didn’t publicly mark the occasion. Brooklyn and Nicola are said to have since celebrated their anniversary at Coachella Indio, California, this week amid Victoria’s birthday celebrations, which are thought to have taken place in Miami, Florida.

Brooklyn and his wife Nicola reportedly didn’t publicly celebrate his mother’s birthday on Thursday. It comes amid reports that there’s tension within the family, with the couple absent from an early party for David’s 50th birthday a few weeks ago.

This week, Victoria shared photos from celebrations for her birthday, which suggested that Brooklyn and Nicola were among the relatives not in attendance. The pair, alongside other notable absences like his brother Cruz Beckham, 20, did not appear in photos from the occasion. It’s unclear why they were absent.

Victoria revealed that she was joined by David and their other kids Romeo Beckham, 22, and Harper Beckham, 13. A post on Instagram included photos of them onboard a yacht and from a “beautiful dinner” they had with pals.

In the caption of her recent post, Victoria said: “Thank you for making my birthday so special. My family and my friends, I love you all so much xxxxx.” She tagged her husband David at the end of the caption.

David had paid tribute to her earlier this week, like his youngest sons Romeo and Cruz. Cruz’s partner Jackie Apostel teased that the couple would be celebrating with Victoria sometime soon in a post that he shared on Instagram.

It comes after the couple were absent from photos from birthday celebrations for Victoria Beckham (centre right), who was joined by Harper Beckham (left), Romeo Beckham (centre left) and David Beckham (right), this week(Image: @victoriabeckham/Instagram)

Alongside a photo of Victoria and Cruz, Jackie wrote on Thursday: “Happy birthday [Victoria]. How wonderful it is to see you be the most amazing mom to your kids on top of everything else daily. We can’t wait to celebrate with you.”

Although he’s said to have not posted about Victoria’s birthday this year, her eldest son Brooklyn has shared updates from his time at Coachella with Nicola. In an apparent reupload of a previous post, he shared some photos this morning, writing: “Made amazing memories this year #supergooppartner.”

Brooklyn’s absence from the birthday celebrations, and the apparent social media snubs, come amid reports that he and Romeo aren’t on speaking terms. It’s been reported that there is some tension over Romeo’s relationship with Kim Turnbull.

It’s been suggested that Brooklyn was once romantically linked to Kim. As previously reported, TMZ claimed earlier this month that it was “all water under the bridge” though, with the outlet adding that sources had said the issue was over Brooklyn and Nicola questioning whether Kim has “the right intentions” for dating Romeo.

Hello magazine reported last week that Cruz is said to have dismissed the suggestion that eldest brother Brooklyn dated Kim previously. In a comment in response to someone on social media that appears to have since been deleted, Cruz reportedly wrote: “Brooklyn and Kim never dated.”

Amid the rumoured tension, it’s been reported this week that it would be the “best” present for their father David – who turns 50 next month – to have his family together for his birthday. A source told Mail Online: “It would be the best birthday present ever for David to have all of his children and their partners happily having a wonderful time together. That’s what really puts a smile on his face.”

Former Spice Girls singer Victoria Beckham enjoyed a celebratory family dinner for her 51st birthday – but her son Brooklyn and his wife Nicola Peltz were nowhere to be seen

(Image: Instagram)

Victoria Beckham has seemingly sent a coded message to her daughter in law Nicola Peltz amid rumours of a family feud. The former Spice Girls singer took charge in style, sporting a custom corset she designed for her daughter-in-law.

The 51-year-old fashion icon turned heads at her birthday celebration this week, pairing a plunging white corset with sleek, tailored trousers. This striking piece was originally created by Victoria for US actress Nicola Peltz, 30, who is married to her eldest son, Brooklyn.

Nicola showcased the corset at the premiere of her film Lola last year, and in April 2024, she shared a throwback photo with Victoria to mark her 50th birthday, writing, “Happy Birthday to my beautiful MIL.” However, this week, Brooklyn, 26, and Nicola failed to acknowledge Victoria’s birthday, sparking speculation of tension within the family.

The former Spice Girls singer took charge in style, sporting a custom corset she designed for her daughter-in-law(Image: Instagram)

While Romeo, 22, and Harper, 13, attended a family gathering, Brooklyn was seen posting photos with Nicola at Coachella, fueling rumors of a possible rift. Despite receiving an outpouring of birthday wishes on social media, including from her husband David Beckham, 50, it was noted that her eldest son Brooklyn and Nicola Peltz Beckham remained silent online.

Taking to Instagram on Friday night, Victoria gave her followers a sneak peek at her lavish celebrations as she shared pictures of herself and David posing for the camera. The mum-of-four then posted a snap of herself climbing up a ladder off the yacht they celebrated on in her all-white outfit.

“It wasn’t all glamour last night,” Victoria jokingly captioned the shot – tagging husband David in the image. Earlier, the former Spice Girl hinted that Brooklyn and his younger brother Cruz Beckham, 20, were not present at her birthday bash, as they were absent from the photos she shared. The reason for their absence remains unclear.

Nicola wore the top at the Premiere of “Lola” last year(Image: FilmMagic)

She did reveal, however, that she was joined by David and their other children Romeo Beckham, 22, and Harper Beckham, 13, along with some friends. While Cruz was also missing from the party, Brooklyn was singled out as the only one who didn’t post a birthday tribute to his mum on social media.

Fans first noticed the apparent snub on his last Instagram post, which celebrated his third wedding anniversary with wife Nicola Peltz on April 9. Instead of acknowledging Victoria’s 51st birthday on Thursday, Nicola then posted a promotional photo of Brooklyn undergoing cupping therapy.

And just sixty minutes after Victoria shared some heartfelt birthday photographs, her eldest, Brooklyn Beckham, hit Instagram with a bunch of snaps from Coachella in California. He was living it up at the festival last weekend with his wife Nicola and captioned their memories with: “Made amazing memories this year x [heart emoji].”

It wasn’t too long before eagle-eyed fans noticed that Brooklyn and his partner Nicola, aged 30, were nowhere to be seen at David Beckham’s early birthday bash in Miami on March 30 either. Moreover, whispers started doing rounds when the pair also missed out on fashion icon Victoria’s latest Paris Fashion Week Show.

Celebrity Big Brother fans expecting a ‘backdoor eviction’ have been left confused after former Olympian Daley Thompson became the fourth famous face to leave the current ITV series

Celebrity Big Brother fans are wondering about a backdoor eviction

Fans of Celebrity Big Brother have been left in the lurch regarding a potential “backdoor eviction”. Viewers were confused over the idea of another housemate leaving without a live audience. It comes after reports suggested Friday would see two housemates leave.

On the live show, Daley Thompson became the fourth celebrity to leave the ITV show – and the third via public vote.Viewers they took to social media to vent their thoughts on another potential leaver – and it appears former Love Island star Chris Hughes could be in the firing line. However, any exit won’t be revealed to the viewing public until the show returns on Sunday.

On Twitter /X, one user fumed over Chris’ antics on the cat challenge. As the group dressed as felines, the reality TV star took it one step further and actually used the litter tray as his toiled. The fan wrote: “Chris needs to get a backdoor eviction for that piddling.. Did he even wash his hands after?”

Trisha Goddard has already left the Big Brother house(Image: Sofi Adams/REX/Shutterstock for Big Brother)
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Another agreed, saying following Chris and JoJo’s litter tray antics: “Disgusting, backdoor evict for one of them #cbbuk sick of their show.”

However, some fans wondered if the alleged backdoor eviction will actually take place. Another wrote after Friday’s edition: “Nothing on this backdoor that was supposed to happen tomorrow… #CBBUK #CBB.” “

So is a backdoor eviction not happening on Sunday then? Absolutely no mention on Late and Live #CBBUK,” added another.

A third said: “Live stream is over, unsure if we’ve got a 5 hour long one tonight if this “backdoor eviction” is planned or not guess we will have to see. Anyway goodnight #CBBUK #CBBLive.”

And another confused viewer said: “If there’s a backdoor eviction today, will the livestream still go ahead tonight ? or will they just slideshow and bird sound the whole thing #cbbuk”

During Friday’s night’s eviction, former Olympian Daley Thompson threw shade at co-host Will Best. As he left the house, Daley sat down with hosts AJ Odudu and Will. As they chatted in the exit interview, Daley repeatedly told the duo they should try a stint in the house at some point.

On one occasion, Will joked that he didn’t think he was famous enough to take part in the celebrity lineup. Daley stunned viewers as he jibed back in agreement. Taking to social media one user gasped: “Aww Daley just rinsed Will! #CBBUK.”

Another added: “OMG not Daley telling CBB host Will Best that he’s not famous enough for #CBBUK,” followed by a skull and crossbones emoji.

Speaking to the duo following his exit, Daley said: “I would have liked to have stayed longer but I was quite happy to come out. The problem with it is, no matter what goes on in there, it’s you lot out here,” as he pointed to the public.

He also added that he didn’t have “high hopes” for his housemates, adding: “They have been funny, revealing, great people.”

Paddy and Christine McGuiness shocked fans when they split in 2022 – and although their marriage appeared to end amicably – it’s now claimed there’s a ‘rift’ between them

Inside ‘messy’ McGuinness divorce as Paddy claims to have ‘no money left’

Paddy and Christine McGuinness’ decision to stay living together after their marriage has reportedly led to the ‘rift’ between them – with sources claiming the former Take Me Out star “pays for everything”.

The pair called time on their marriage of 11 years in June 2022 for the sake of their children. However, it’s now been revealed that Paddy and Christine are in the ­process of ­trying to sell their £6.5million mansion, which Christine is “devastated” over. The model said earlier this month that she’s struggling to pay the £300,000 divorce bill she now faces.

However, it’s not only Christine that seems to be struggling. Earlier this month, Paddy claimed he was going on tour because he “had no money.” Speaking on a podcast he revealed: “I still get that feeling just before I go on, going, ‘F***, why are we doing this?’ And then I remember I am divorced. ‘Oh yeah, that’s why!’. I have no money. But honestly, it has been doing really, really well.”

Paddy and Christine called time on their marriage in June 2022(Image: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)

“At the moment, Paddy is paying for everything — the house bills and even Christine’s car,” a source told The Sun.

Speaking on the house sale earlier this week, Christine told Mail Online she was devastated. “We don’t know how long it’s going to take.” Addressing the £30,000 she had to pay for the divorce, the former Real Housewives of Cheshire star revealed she had to pay “out of my own money, that I didn’t even have. I’m still paying for it.”

However, a source told The Sun: “Some of what she has been saying just isn’t right. The amount she’s spent on lawyers is actually closer to the £70,000 mark. It would only have skyrocketed to near the ­figures she’s thrown out there if their case had gone the full way in court, but it didn’t.”

The source also claimed that Christine is yet to receive a cash payment from Paddy but will receive one when they eventually sell their house.

Paddy claims to have ‘no money’(Image: Getty Images)

The Mirror has contacted Paddy and Christine’s representatives for comment.

Christine and Paddy married on June 4, 2011 and since had their children, twins Leo and Penelope, 11, and daughter Felicity, eight. However, it was announced in 2022 the couple had separated after 11 years of marriage.

Announcing the split at the time via Instagram, they penned: “A while ago we took the difficult decision to separate but our main focus as always is to continue loving and supporting our children.

“This was not an easy decision to make but we’re moving forward as the best parents we can be for our three beautiful children. We’ll always be a loving family, we still have a great relationship and still live happily in our family home together.”

A new Italian star who is dating one of the Strictly Come Dancing professionals could be joining the 2025 line up as bosses search for a replacement for dancer Giovanni Pernice

Giovanni Pernice is not retuning to Strictly Come Dancing following his scandal

Strictly Come Dancing has reportedly signed up a hunky new Italian dancer as Giovanni Pernice continues to stay away from the BBC show. The professional dancers taking part in this year’s competition have slowly been revealed, with two new stars yet to be announced.

Amid reports of a cull, all the current Strictly dancers will be making their comeback to the 2025 series. However, Giovanni won’t be returning, despite his hope that he would be back on the show after winning the Italian version of Strictly, Ballando con le Stelle.

The fan-favourite sensationally quit after his celebrity dance partner Amanda Abbington made a string of allegations regarding his “abusive” behaviour, with the Italian dancer later cleared after a BBC investigation.

His comeback would have likely been supported by the likes of judges Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke, who have remained close to the Italian dancer.

Dancer Simone Arena could be joining the Strictly cast(Image: I

Yet, there could be a new Italian star on the Strictly dancefloor in a matter of months as show bosses. According to reports, show bosses have eyed up Simone Arena, who is the boyfriend of Strictly pro Michelle Tsiakkas.

“Simone blew the Strictly bosses away when he auditioned as a new professional on the show,” a source told the Sun. “He is no stranger to the Strictly format after previously starring as a pro on the Belgian, Italian and Irish versions of the series.”

They added: “Simone is well known among the pros and his girlfriend Michelle loved her time on the series last year.”

Earlier this month it was confirmed Dianne Buswell, Nadiya Bychkova, Amy Dowden, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, Jowita Przystal, Johannes Radebe, Aljaž Škorjanec, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola will all take to the floor later this year.

Two new pro dancers – who are yet to be revealed – will also join them. Not all the pros will receive celebrity partners this year, so fans will have to wait until the autumn to find out if their favourites will be in the main line-up.

It was claimed last year that five pro dancers were set to leave the show, with Nadiya Bychkova, Neil Jones, Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez and Katya Jones among the names on the chopping block. Yet, this has now been confirmed to not be the case.

Strictly has had tumultuous year, which along with Giovanni’s abrupt exit also saw Graziano Di Prima axed by show bosses. A video had emerged of the pro dancer kicking his 2023 celebrity partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals, which he admitted to.

2024 contestant Wynne Evans was axed from the Strictly Live Tour this year after a video emerged of him making a vile sexual remark at his co-star while at the launch of the tour in Birmingham.

He had apologised for the comment and told the Mirror: “My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologise.”

Wynne was recorded making an inappropriate sexual comment to Janette Manrara, who acts as host on the tour, as he used the hugely demeaning term “spit roast” in reference to a lewd sexual act.

The Mirror has contacted the BBC for comment.

The Wanted star Jay McGuiness breaks down over bandmate Tom Parker during an emotional chat with comic Helen Lederer in emotional scenes on the BBC hit show

Singer Jay McGuiness breaks down in tears over his late The Wanted bandmate Tom Parker in moving scenes on BBC show Pilgrimage. Jay, 34, sobbed during a conversation with comedian Helen Lederer, 70, and said afterwards: “I cried more than I’ve ever cried.”

Jay had to take a break during filming to sob in private. He told Helen: “I need to have a little cry in the toilet.” Tom died in March 2022 aged 33 after revealing to fans in 2020 that he had an inoperable brain tumour.

On whether he talked to his fellow singer, he said after filming: “I have, yes? it’s a conversation which [will] always be coloured by the question of, like, ‘Can you even hear this?’ While he was sick, I definitely had moments that I would say I prayed, and then when he passed away I sort of felt like, ‘I wonder if he can hear me now’.

“I felt that did really sort of ignite a lot of questions that I’ve left unanswered, and in some ways, I know I’m searching for that catharsis. I’m really open to the idea there’s something out there.

Emotional: Jay McGuiness in tears(Image: BBC)

“If we do all go into some global consciousness… God or whatever, then Tom would be there, and I’d be able to speak to him, but whether he can speak back is another question.”

The show, Pilgrimage: The Road Through the Alps, is an ideal way for Jay to explore questions about faith.

In the three-part BBC Two show, Jay joins presenter Jeff Brazier, 45, Helen, The Traitors winner Harry Clark, 24, comedian Daliso Chaponda, 45, Paralympic athlete Stefanie Reid, 40, and journalist Nelufar Hedayat, 37. Together, they walk nearly 186 miles from Austria to Einsiedeln Abbey in Switzerland over 12 days.

Jay, raised in Nottinghamshire in an Irish Catholic family, said: “I agreed to go on this Pilgrimage because it just sounded the perfect thing to do. The rule book that comes with being a Catholic is too judgmental for where I am. I think the closest I can get to what I am, would be considered agnostic. I don’t believe there is a God, and I don’t believe there isn’t.”

Helen Lederer talks to Jay McGuiness(Image: BBC)

Jay, in The Wanted with Tom plus Siva Kaneswaran, Max George and Nathan Sykes, added: “But I would love to know a little bit more about what I am. So, I’m looking forward to that.”

The celebs are at one stage seen traversing a snow-capped mountain during the hit show.

Speaking to the Mirror last week, Jeff Brazier says they took it in their stride.

He said: “You wouldn’t want a pilgrimage to be easy, would you? If we’re going to be pilgrims and kind of re-enact what thousands of people have done over the ages ahead of us, then we want to face a little bit of adversity, and you can always guarantee the weather will provide you with a little bit of that.” The shared purpose helped the celebs open up with one another.

“Inevitably we got to know each other really well, as you can’t talk about religion and spirituality without talking about life itself and the experiences that you’ve had,” he says.