The 2024 Christmas special episode of the BBC’s Casualty includes a storyline that explores a blood shortage in the fictional hospital – but touches on real life events
Details of the Casualty Christmas special have revealed the staff at Holby City Hospital will be facing a blood shortage crisis in tense scenes.
The festive special of the long-running BBC medical drama is due to air on Saturday night, ahead of Christmas, which this year lands on Wednesday. And the the full fifty minute special, which has the title Casualty: All I Want for Christmas, will explore the consequences of a blood shortage as one young patient is found to need a transfusion.
The tense episode begins with a nurse noting that supply levels are low – only for an eight-car pile-up to put pressure on the hospital as accident victims are rushed to the emergency rooms. Among those in need is a six-year-old girl who is in need of a blood transfusion on Christmas Day.
The episode also touches on recent political events by exploring a storyline that reflects the recent Infected Blood Compensation Scheme Summary which saw the government vow to provide compensation to patients who contracted blood diseases due to transfusions in the 1980s. In the Casualty sub-plot, one of the car crash victims refuses blood at the risk of his life due to the death of his sister, who had unknowingly been given infected blood in the 1980s during childbirth.
Disaster strikes during the events of the festive special(
Image: BBC/ALISTAIR HEAP)
The episode features testimonies from real-life contributors who have faced problems as a result of blood donation issues in the UK, including a man who had haemophilia and was a victim of the infected blood scandal. He said he was infected with HIV and hepatitis C by the time he was five.
Meanwhile, further scenes involve the fictitious story of a postman who becomes a victim of the car crash while out delivering packages on Christmas Day. During the episode, nurse Cameron Micklethwaite played by Barney Walsh – son of The Chase presenter Bradley Walsh – declares the hospital is “out of blood”.
In one of the real-life testimonies, the father of a young woman who had a rare blood cancer said she was “utterly reliant on the generosity” of those who donated blood. “It gave us three and a half precious years with her,” he said.
The episode also features paramedic Iain Dean volunteering to pick up more blood as the hospital’s supply dwindles, before becoming involved in a car accident. In an interview, a real-life volunteer blood courier says: “We do it because we’re saving people’s lives.” The special episode, called All I Want For Christmas, is already available to stream via the BBC iPlayer, and will air on BBC One at 9.20pm on Saturday 21 November.
Emmerdale will be on aplenty over Christmas and New Year, with some big twists and turns set to rock the ITV soap – here’s the full schedule guide and spoiler round-up
It’s going to be a huge Christmas and New Year on Emmerdale this year, with the Christmas Day episode teased to be action-packed.
Spoilers have teased major drama ahead, while so much is being kept under wraps until it airs. But what time will it air on Christmas Day this year, and when else is the show on over Christmas?
What can we expect from the big episodes this time around? Several key characters take centre stage in the festive period, with danger and horror ahead, as well as family drama and a happy reunion.
There could be more than one return this Christmas, while fans will have to wait and see what exactly goes down. It’s even been teased not everyone will make it into 2025, but who knows!
It’s going to be a huge Christmas and New Year on Emmerdale this year(
Image: ITV)
What time is Emmerdale on Christmas Day? What happens?
This Christmas Day, Emmerdale will be on at the earlier time of 6:30pm on ITV1. It will be a 30-minute episode, while it’s thought, not yet confirmed, the episode will also drop on ITVX that morning as usual.
There’s some big moments this Christmas Day, as teenager April Windsor goes missing leaving her family in turmoil. But what has happened to her?
Elsewhere, Ruby Miligan continues to hide her devastating secret, the abuse the suffered as a teenager at the hands of her father Anthony Fox. Things reach breaking point, and she’s soon threatening him with a knife.
Also this Christmas there’s happy scenes with a return confirmed. After Belle Dingle’s harrowing domestic abuse ordeal this year, she is finally reunited with her beloved pooch Piper in a Christmas miracle.
There is also tipped to be another big return causing shockwaves, while all is very much TBC at the moment. What we do know is that someone is targeting Kim Tate, and they could be on their way to the village this Christmas.
A flashforward will air on Christmas Day, teasing a possible death and a dramatic struggle at Home Farm. With Kim and partner Will Taylor nowhere to be seen, could we be waving goodbye to a character?
When else is Emmerdale on over Christmas and New Year?
The entire festive schedule for the ITV soap is as follows:
Monday December 23 – 7:30pm
Tuesday December 24 (Christmas Eve) – 7pm
Wednesday 25 December (Christmas Day) – 6:30pm
Thursday 26 December (Boxing Day) – 6:30pm (hour-long episode)
Princess Beatrice to spend Christmas at Sandringham with King after being warned against travel
Princess Beatrice, 36, and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, 41, will be joining the Royal Family for Christmas at Sandringham this year after she was given new medical advice about her pregnancy
Princess Beatrice will be joining the Royal Family at Sandringham this Christmas in a last-minute change of plans.
Beatrice and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are expecting their second child due in early spring, and were initially planning on spending the festive period overseas with the princess’ in-laws. But the 36-year-old, who is in her third trimester, has recently been given medical advice instructing her not to travel long distances – and so is opting for the huge royal gathering in Norfolk on December 25 instead.
The forthcoming royal baby will be a little brother or sister for the couple’s three-year-old daughter Sienna, and Mr Mapelli Mozzi’s son Wolfie, both of whom will also be at Sandringham this year.
King Charles is hosting a bumper Christmas Day celebration at Sandringham this year with as many as 45 guests invited(
Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
A large number of royals will be guests of King Charles and Queen Camilla on Christmas Day this year, with Prince William recently revealing that 45 people will be “all in one room” at the royal residence. However, Beatrice’s father Prince Andrew will not be among them, as he is staying away amid the ongoing controversy surrounding his links to an alleged Chinese spy. He will instead spend Christmas with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. Beatrice’s sister Princess Eugenie and her family are planning on spending Christmas with her in-laws.Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are expected to remain in California with their two children and Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland. They are not thought to have been invited to Sandringham, having last spent Christmas with the Royal Family in 2018.One new face at the gathering this year will be King Charles’ stepson, Tom Parker Bowles, who is set to attend for the very first time. Food critic Tom, 50, revealed in a recent interview with the Telegraph that mum Queen Camilla personally requested his presence at the royal gathering this year. He shared: “My mum said, ‘I’d love you to come, I haven’t had Christmas with you for a long time.’”
According to a top royal expert, this year’s festive celebration will focus on providing activities for the growing number of younger royals, as well as showing support for the King and Kate, Princess of Wales after their health struggles this year. Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told OK!: “After the year they’ve had, I’m sure it’s going to mean the world to the King and Queen to have as many of their family as possible joining them for Christmas. And, as the number of youngsters increases, so the celebrations become more and more child oriented. Which is exactly what Christmas should be all about.”
Joe Sugg has revealed the jaw-dropping surprise he prepared for his girlfriend, Dianne Buswell, after comedian Chris McCausland was crowned the winner of Strictly Come Dancing last night.
The 33-year-old YouTuber and actor took to social media to congratulate Chris and Dianne who lifted the Glitterball on the popular BBC TV show. Joe said their win showed “you can achieve anything the doubters say you can’t and more.”
The proud boyfriend posted a photo of him with Chris and Dianne as they all smiled after the live show. He also shared two photos showing the surprise he prepared for the professional dancer.
Joe Sugg with Dianne Buswell and Chris McCausland as they were crowned Strictly winners(
Image: instagram.com/joe_sugg)
Joe decorated their home with white and gold balloons and a banner reading “2024 winner” in between two flights of stairs. One of the images he shared showed Dianne looking ecstatic while lifting the Glitterball, while the other showed the couple embracing looking at the home decorations.
Accompanying the post, Joe wrote: “There are no words to describe how proud I am of you both @diannebuswell @chrismccauslandcomedy, Last night was an absolute movie. You made us laugh, you made us cry and you proved to the world that you are good enough and you can achieve anything the doubters say you can’t and more.
Joe prepared a surprise for Dianne(
Image: instagram.com/joe_sugg)
He shared the images on Instagram(
Image: instagram.com/joe_sugg)
“Chris I thank you for making this year so special for Dianne and I could not be happier that you’re the partner she finally lifted the glitterball with. Dot, it’s been a long winding, road full of ups and downs for 7 years but you have shown pure determination & dedication and you finally got there in the best way possible and everyone has been able to see how amazing you are and what an incredible teacher you are this year. You are both inspirations and have the nations hearts. on behalf of everyone, thank you.”
Strictly pro Dianne commented the post, writing: “Thank you my angel for always supporting me and being by my side I love you.” In the Strictly finale, Chris and Dianne competed against Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola, JB Gill and Lauren Oakley and Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec.
As the result came in, Chris and Dianne were in complete shock and quickly hugged it out. Left in tears, they were applauded by the judges, crowd and their co-stars as hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman congratulated them. Their fellow finalists rallied around them and embraced them, as Chris wiped back tears. Dianne was shaking, as the hosts asked Chris about his win.
Tess asked how it felt, with a speechless Chris saying: “It’s astonishing, I don’t know what to say. I thought I would go out in the first week or two. We have lasted and lasted and she has got so much out of me, she deserves this so much.”
He added: “This is for her and for everyone out there who thought… who got told they couldn’t do something or thought they couldn’t do it. With opportunity and support and determination anything can happen.” A teary Dianne told him it was “for both of them”, screaming: “We did it!”
Chris and Dianne celebrating the win(
Image: PA)Comedian Chris has inspired the whole nation with his performances, as the show’s first ever blind contestant. The way he has taken on the show and progressed his dancing skills, thanks to pro dancer Dianne’s help, has inspired viewers with them constantly heaping praise on the finalist.
In recent weeks the star has shared the obstacles he has faced throughout the series, with Dianne often explaining to the hosts, judges and viewers what they are up against in training. In a moving moment on Saturday night, judge Craig Revel Horwood revealed he finally realised just how much Chris and Dianne had to put into every training session in order to deliver such epic performances, as he visited the training room.
With Chris’ sight loss, Craig was able to see how Dianne trained him to dance and to follow the steps to ensure each routine was done correctly. The judge even wrote Chris a poem, after his newfound appreciation for Chris’ skill having seen how much work it takes to learn each step, direction, and to know what is going on around him.
Chris had previously confessed he put off Strictly for so long as he was unsure he could do it, and he also didn’t want to encourage negative comments. He decided to challenge himself and has gone on to win the entire show, something he wasn’t expecting.
EXCLUSIVE: Former Strictly dancer Giovanni Pernice is gearing up for his highly anticipated return to UK telly after the BBC completed their investigation.
Giovanni Pernice is set to return to our screens in the new year (Image: Getty)
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice is set to make his long-awaited return to UK television after being at the centre of a BBC probe last year.
Express.co.uk can exclusively reveal that the 34-year-old Sicilian dancer will appear in the upcoming season of Channel 4’s Celebrity Hunted on Sunday, January 5.
The show, filmed back in 2022, had been shelved following explosive allegations of bullying made by his Strictly dance partner Amanda Abbington. But two years on, TV bosses have had a change of heart and have reportedly decided to air the reality show in the new year.
Confirming the exciting news on Instagram earlier this year, Giovanni declared: “I’m back baby!” A source told us: “A reelase date has finally been chosen for the show after a lot fo chaos behind-the-scenes. The contestants are are thrilled too because they’ve been waiting for news for almost two years.”
Executives had reportedly considered cutting Giovanni’s scenes entirely, but the decision was made to keep him in the programme following the results of the BBC investigation.
Amanda accused Gio of “bullying” on the BBC dance competition (Image: Channel 4)
A TV source previously stated: “It was absolutely right to shelve Hunted while the BBC took the time to unravel the claims against Giovanni. It was filmed in 2022 and due to screen last year, but will now air in early 2025.”
The BBC concluded its investigation last month, clearing Giovanni of ten out of 16 allegations, including claims of violence, physical abuse, threats, and intimidation. However, six allegations were upheld.
The report found instances of “inappropriate behaviour of sexual banter in the workplace,” as well as “belittling, dismissive, and insulting language.”
Despite this, Giovanni’s focus remains on moving forward. A source close to him told The Sun: “Gio is pleased he was cleared of the serious allegations and is optimistic about the future.”
Giovanni was cleared of ten out of 16 allegations (Image: PA)
The allegations rocked his professional reputation, with Abbington reportedly receiving an apology from BBC bosses after their findings.
Meanwhile, Giovanni’s former Strictly co-star, Radio 2’s Richie Anderson, kept quiet during the investigation and even unfollowed him on social media amid rumours of a falling out.
In Celebrity Hunted, Giovanni and Anderson teamed up for the thrilling Channel 4 reality show after competing on the BBC dance competition in 2021.
They will joined the star-studded lineup featuring Loose Women star Denise Welch and her husband Lincoln Townley, EastEnders icon Danielle Harold, and Coronation Street actress Kimberley Hart-Simpson.
While Celebrity Hunted will finally air, the show’s civilian edition has been left in limbo, with no new series expected in the near future.
According to Broadcast: “The show has fallen out of the recommissioning cycle, which means it is impossible for the civilian edition to record another series this year.”
Outside of the controversy, Giovanni’s career is thriving. He recently announced a theatre tour with Strictly judge Anton Du Beke for next summer and is promoting his own headline tour, The Last Dance, running from January to May.
Additionally, he continues to shine on the Italian version of Strictly, recently making history with five perfect tens.
STRICTLY fans have claimed Janette Manrara snubbed Tasha Ghouri in her tribute post to Aljaž Škorjanec after they made the BBC final.
It Takes Two host Janette sparked a debate after failing to mention Tasha in a heartfelt message to her husband Aljaž.
3
It Takes Two host and former Strictly pro Janette Manrara paid tribute to her husband after he returned as a pro
3
He danced with Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri and they made the final – though Janette failed to congratulate Tasha in a recent postCredit: PA
Janette, who quit the show in 2021 to become the host of Strictly spin-off It Takes Two, shared an emotional Instagram post praising Aljaz for his “incredible” comeback series on Strictly Come Dancing.
However, fans were quick to notice that Aljaz’s celebrity dance partner, Tasha, was notably absent from the gushing message, leading to speculation of tension behind the scenes.
In the post, the mum wrote: “I have no words to express how IMMENSELY proud I am of @aljazskorjanec this series.
“What a comeback year
“You worked incredibly hard, spent time away from home and our little family, pushed through missing Lyra as much as you did, and did it all with class and grace making your wife and daughter and yourself very proud.
“You were AMAZING last night and every single week. I am so very happy for you, as are your family, friends and team. Now…. Let’s go home and cuddle.
“I’ve missed you, and I love you.”
While Janette’s words were filled with love and admiration for Aljaz, there was no mention of Tasha, who Aljaz partnered with throughout the season.
Fans quickly took to the comments, questioning if it was a snub.
One follower wrote: “It may have been nice for you to mention tasha in this post too?
However, another replied: “Should she? She is talking about how she has missed her husband Tasha doesn’t have to be mentioned.”
One more fan moaned: “It’s like you have watched alijaz & tasha like a hawk….now this post not even a mention for tasha just you you you”
A third wrote: “Tasha and aljaz were my winners however but of a snub towards tasha”.
It comes after Tasha’s incredible performance in Saturday’s final saw her become the show’s highest scoring celebrity ever — taking the title from singer Ashley Roberts.
She came second to blind comedian Chris McCausland and his pro partner Dianne Buswell.
The Love Island star, who was born deaf and wears a cochlear implant, has cherished being able to represent her community on the BBC dance show.
She described getting to the final as “magical” and praised Aljaž for getting her so far.
She wrote alongside a post on social media: “Strictly after 13 weeks thank you, when I say doing this show has just been so magical I can’t even put it into words & surprising me with my brother flying in from Australia!!!
“This was extra special having him there watching the final, thank you so much for making this happen.
“Alijaz you made magical beautiful dances that’ll be remembered for a long time from our American smooth, waltz, show dance and many more.
“Everyday we laughed & smiled, you are what strictly is about – your passion and positivity radiates from within on this show. I can’t thank you enough from the bottom of my heart, you made my experience so magical. And we made history!!! What a moment.
“I have to give a huge shoutout to @arduinobertoncello for our show dance, thank you so much for making the show dance EPIC! you really helped me bring out my inner ginger & doing this style I LOVED IT!!!”
3
Aljaz with fellow Strictly star wife Janette ManraraCredit: Getty – Contributor
Emmerdale have always been brilliant at shining a light on their more mature stars, better known as the golden oldies.
They may not offer the sex appeal and excitement of their younger generations, but they’ve got a wealth of life experience. There’s not much these ladies and gents haven’t seen or done. Just look at Eric Pollard – he’s now the soap’s longest serving character, and there’s never been a dull moment when he’s on screen.
To celebrate their greatness, let’s take a look at 11 of Emmerdale’s greatest OAP icons, both past and present… Annie Sugden was the original Emmerdale matriarch (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
×
Loaded: 25.20%
Remaining Time –1:04
Emmerdale golden oldies: Annie Sugden
Annie was the OG matriarch of Emmerdale and one of the soap’s most beloved icons. Played by the late Sheila Mercier, Annie remains the longest-serving female character in Emmerdale’s 52 year history.
Introduced in the very first episode of Emmerdale, Annie was the widow of farmer Jacob Sugden. Not much was known about Jacob, but viewers learnt he’d been an alcoholic and neglectful husband, often leaving Annie to look after their farm and children.
Annie was a mum of three to sons Jack and Joe, and daughter Peggy. She doted on her brood, but tragically, all of her children died before she did.
There were other traumas in Annie’s life. She had to contend with constant financial woes, and she also battled an addiction to painkillers. In 1993, she was seriously injured when a plane hit the village, which was known back then as Beckindale. Annie was left in a coma for three months, and woke up to discover her second husband, Leonard Kempinski had been killed in the tragedy.
After an incredible 32 years, Annie decided to swap the Yorkshire Dales for a new life in sunny Spain. A year after her sad departure it was revealed Annie had married for a third time, to former Woolpack landlord Amos Brearly. More on him later.
Over the next decade and a half fans were treated to the occasional visit from Annie. She was last seen on screen in February 2009 when she returned to lay her eldest, Jack to rest.
Annie lived out the rest of her years in Spain, and passed away in August 2020 at the ripe old age of 100. Seth was one of Emmerdale’s all time greats (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Seth Armstrong
Fans always had a soft spot for Seth. The character, whose real name was Archibald Seth, was played by actor Stan Richards from 1978 to 2004.
A loveable rogue, Seth was always in and out of trouble. His hobby was poaching, and after years of illegally shooting birds on Home Farm land he was made gamekeeper there in 1980. In later years he formed an unlikely friendship with lady of the manor, Kim Tate.
Seth was widowed in 1993 when his wife Meg passed away, and months later his house was destroyed in the plane crash. But his fortunes changed in 1994 when Seth was reunited with his teenage sweetheart, Betty. The couple fell back in love, but Seth’s appetite for mischief often got him in trouble with his other half.
Who remembers when the cheeky chap set up a webcam, which broadcast Betty’s daily movements to everyone on the net, just to get a free breakfast? Betty chucked Seth when she found out what he’d done, but he found a way to win her back.
Seth said farewell to the village in 2003 when he moved away to Australia. He passed away off-screen, following Stan Richards death from emphysema in February 2005.
Carrying out his final wishes, Seth’s body was illegally buried in the woods, with only his nearest and dearest knowing the truth. Betty was a force of nature (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Betty Eagleton
Busybody Betty always knew what everyone in the village was up to. She loved nothing better than a good old gossip over a glass of her favourite tipple, sherry. But despite her nosiness, Betty was an adored member of the community and a friend to all.
She arrived back in 1994, and embarked on a romance with her former love Seth. Both had been widowed and made plans of their own to marry, but decided at the last minute they were too old to be exchanging vows.
Betty definitely wore the trousers in their relationship. She was the first to call Seth out if he’d been up to no good (which was often!). There were plenty of comedy moments between the couple, which actress Paula Tilbrok played to perfection. Seth might have been useless at times, but we’ll always remember how he stepped in to protect Betty when her nasty ex Reggie Wilkie tried to cause trouble.
His death in 2005 left Betty heartbroken, but she found the courage to carry on.
In 2015, Paula Tilbrook announced she was retiring after 21 years of playing Betty. The actress described her decision to leave Emmerdale as ‘both the saddest and happiest day of my life’. The character moved to Australia with her new beau, Reuben Archibald, who hilariously was a dead ringer for her beloved Seth.
Betty’s last on-screen appearance was on Christmas Day 2015. Four years later, Paula passed away aged 89. Amos ran the Woolpack for 43 years (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale golden oldies: Amos Brearly
Emmerdale original Amos Brearly was the pipe-smoking landlord of The Woolpack and famed for his bushy sideburns.
His name had been above the village boozer since 1948, which means he’d already been landlord for 24 years when viewers were first introduced to him. Amos was a terrible gossip – you couldn’t tell him a secret unless you wanted half of the village to know. He could also be rather moody and the sight of blood would make him faint.
His greatest friend was Henry Wilks, who joined forces with him in 1973 to run the Woolie together. Although they frequently clashed, Amos and Henry created an iconic partnership which they managed to keep going for 19 years.
Amos had his brushes with death – he was the victim of an armed robbery and survived a stroke, which ended his days as landlord.
Amos only had eyes for one woman in Emmerdale – Annie Sugden. He proposed to her in 1972, but she turned him down. They remained friends, and when Amos asked Annie to marry him again in 1995, she accepted.
He left Emmerdale that year and went to live with Annie in Spain. The couple went on to marry, but what became of Amos, who knows! Indomitable Eric is Emmerdale’s longest-serving character (Credit: ITV)
Eric Pollard
There’s only one Eric Pollard. And where would Emmerdale be without him?
A permanent fixture on our screens since 1986, Eric has been entertaining audiences for 38 years. But did you know he was only meant to stay for 12 episodes? Actor Chris Chittell’s portrayal of scheming Pollard was such a hit with viewers it was decided to keep him on full time. And we’re grateful they did.
Eric has certainly lived a colourful life. He’s been engaged in several business (mainly illegal) ventures, made plenty of enemies, and had lots of brides.
To date, there have been five Mrs Pollards. These include his second wife Elizabeth Jefferies, who perished in the plane crash of 1993. Eric committed bigamy by marrying Elizabeth, as he was still wedded to his first missus, Eileen.
Wifey number three was Filipino student Dee de la Cruz, then Eric said I do with social climber Gloria Weaver. The true love of Eric’s life was his fifth wife, the indomitable Valerie ‘Val’ Pollard, who left the biggest void in his life when she died in 2015.
Although initially characterised as a ruthless villain, Eric has mellowed over the years and shown us moments of tremendous vulnerability. Never more so than with his battle against Parkinson’s disease.
Eric was diagnosed with the incurable condition in 2023, and has struggled to accept his ailing health. But there’s still life in the old boy yet! However not another wedding after Brenda recently ended their relationship following his betrayal investing all their cash. If looks could kill, Edna! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Edna Birch
Edna had the sharpest tongue in the village, but underneath her stern exterior was a wise mind and kind heart. She was a friend to many, particularly Betty Eagleton, Pearl Ladderbanks and Sandy Thomas.
She was introduced to audiences in 2000, although Edna had already lived in Emmerdale for years. Characterised as a proud and strong-willed lady, Edna could be incredibly judgey and rarely held back in voicing her opinions.
She had two great loves in her life. First up was the church. As a devout Christian and committed member of the St Mary’s congregation, Edna’s faith was central to all she did. And of course, there were her adorable canine companions, Batley and Tootsie.
Edna’s backstory was explored in 2014 with the introduction of Lawrence White. It was revealed Lawrence had had a gay love affair with Edna’s husband Harold. Edna had reported Lawrence to the police and he was jailed, with Edna believing he died behind bars.
Tragically Edna’s time in Emmerdale was cut short when actress Shirley Stelfox (who also played the original Rose in Keeping Up Appearances) passed away in December 2015 following a short battle with cancer. The character was killed off the following year. Sandy was a real sweetheart (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Emmerdale golden oldies: Sandy Thomas
Former Navy officer Sandy brought his own brand of eccentricity to village life and certainly livened things up at the vicarage.
The dad of local reverend Ashley Thomas, Sandy and his son had a complicated past. They had fallen out years previously after Sandy helped his wife Dorothy end her life, something which went against Ashley’s Christian beliefs.
Sandy gave us so many LOL moments, even if his family found his innuendo-laden jokes rather embarrassing.
But it was no laughing matter when Sandy found himself on the receiving end of Ashley’s temper. Ashley was in a dark place after his marriage split from Laurel and took his hurt out on Sandy. For months, viewers watched on in horror and as the defenseless pensioner was subjected to terrible physical and mental abuse. Ashley was eventually brought to justice and Sandy forgave him for what he’d done.
Sandy continued to live at Mulberry cottage after Ashley’s death in 2017. He bid us all farewell the following year, opting to join his old mate Betty down under. In 2020, news reached the village that Sandy had died peacefully in his sleep. Pearl always looked glam (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Pearl Ladderbanks
Flirty, feisty and forthright – that was our Pearl. She provided the perfect sparring partner for uptight Edna. Pearl also brought a touch of glamour to the Dales with her striking outfits and immaculate hair and make up.
She came to the Dales in 2003 and immediately caught the eye of fellow OAP Len Reynolds. Pearl and Len became a couple and went on to marry. However, their relationship was put to the test when Pearl’s rapist son Frank came to stay in the village. The couple were ostracised by the locals for housing an abuser, and even considered moving away.
Wherever Pearl went trouble often followed. She got conned into investing in a get-rich-quick scheme and got into debt after borrowing money from Eric Pollard. Pearl briefly fled the village, but was found in Leeds working under the alias of Irene.
After Len’s death, Pearl faced problems at work when Vanessa Woodfield tried to push her out of the vets, saying she too old to be their receptionist. But it was Paddy Kirk who gave Pearl her marching orders after discovering she’d been stealing money from the surgery to fund her gambling addiction. Pearl foolishly tried to fake having Alzheimer’s to excuse her behaviour, but was found out.
In 2019, actress Meg Johnson took an extended break, with Pearl’s absence explained that she’d gone on a caravan holiday. The character was last seen on screen in March 2020, and in 2024 news reached the village that Pearl had passed away. Poor Rishi met a sad end (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Rishi Sharma
We always felt a little sorry for lovely Rishi, particularly with a son as nasty and manipulative as Jai.
Big-hearted Rishi was forever trying to clean up whatever mess Jai had made – whether it was within his personal life or at work. And daughter Priya gave the poor man many sleepless nights too.
In 2018, Rishi finally found some happiness of his own when he began dating local doctor Manpreet Sharma. Both Jai and Priya suspected Manpreet was taking their father for a ride and tried to warn him off her. But Rishi was besotted. The pair went on to marry in Las Vegas in 2019.
When the Sharma clan were hit by a financial crisis, Rishi ended up making a deal with the devil – also known as Kim Tate. A fire broke out at the family’s factory and Rishi was forced to give up his share in the business. More bad times followed when Manpreet called time on the marriage and told Rishi she no longer loved him.
Then in 2023 came the biggest shock of all when Rishi admitted to Jai he wasn’t his biological dad. It turned out Rishi’s younger brother Amit was actually the real father.
Weeks later, on the day of Jai’s wedding to Laurel Thomas, Rishi was discovered dead at the bottom of the stairs of Holdgate. It was later revealed Rishi had fallen to his death while rowing with Amit. Rodney modelling one of his iconic bolo ties (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale golden oldies: Rodney Blackstock
In his life before Emmerdale, Rodney worked on a fairground, and even tried his hand at being an author. The biggest vices in his life were women and wine. Not much has changed then.
Rodney was introduced in 2000 as the estranged father of Bernice. He’d walked out on his daughter when she was just five years old and left Diane to raise her alone. It later transpired he’d had an affair with Diane’s sister Val Lambert, the product of which was a son, Paul. He went on to have Nicola with his second wife Maureen.
Rodney has always had an eye for the ladies. This randy old goat has so many notches on his bedpost we’re surprised there’s one left. Rodders’ conquests include Louise Appleton, Steph Stokes and Kelly Windsor. He even tried his hand at being a male escort.
His long-standing bromance with Eric Pollard has also delighted fans over the years. Bear totally pulls off that leopard gown (Credit: ITV)
Bear Wolf
His name might sound intimidating, but lovely Bear is a total softie.
The former wrestler was introduced into the soap as Paddy Kirk’s long-lost father. Back in the 1960s, Bear had an affair with Barbara Kirk, which resulted in her giving birth to a son, Paddy. Barbara raised Paddy to believe her husband was his real father.
The truth was revealed in January 2019 when Paddy found a letter that Bear had written his mum around the time she fell pregnant. A DNA test confirmed Bear was Paddy’s father, and the pair had an emotional reunion in Belfast.
Shortly after Bear arrived in Emmerdale and decided to stay there to make a fresh start with his son. He originally moved into The Woolpack, but now lives in Tenant House.
Over the past five years Bear has proved to be a rock for Paddy. He supported him through his split from Chas, helped him overcome a battle against depression, and has been a lovely grandad to little Eve. He was also an amazing friend to Faith Dingle during the last weeks of his life. All Bear needs now is the love of a good woman.
Fans of Gavin & Stacey were overjoyed earlier this year with the announcement that the much-loved comedy will return for a Christmas special this year.
However, the excitement was tinged with bittersweet news: this episode will also be the last.
James Corden, who co-writes and stars in the show alongside Ruth Jones, shared the news on social media.
It’s been five years since the sitcom last aired, leaving viewers on a cliffhanger when Nessa proposed to Smithy, only for the credits to roll before he could answer.
As we wait until Christmas Day to find out what happens next, a trailer and first plot details have been revealed.
A synopsis shares: “It’s 5 years since we left Nessa down on one knee declaring her love for Smithy and asking him to marry her. And a lot has happened in those 5 years.
“In Barry, Bryn’s packing the Picasso in readiness for a trip to Essex; Stacey and Gavin are looking for new ways to spice up their seventeen-year marriage and Gwen is behaving most strangely. Nessa’s started a new business venture and Neil the Baby’s about to begin an apprenticeship with his dad.
“Over in Billericay Pam is stressing out at the prospect of playing hostess, not helped by a newly retired Mick practicing his golf swings in the living room and there have been more ups and downs in Pete and Dawn’s relationship.”
“Join us on the journey to Barry and Billericay as we catch up with the Shipmans and the Wests for the very last time and maybe find out what exactly did happen on that fishing trip.”
The special will see Matthew Horne (Gavin), Joanna Page (Stacey), Ruth Jones (Nessa), James Corden (Smithy), Melanie Walter (Gwen), Larry Lamb (Mick), Alison Steadman (Pam) and Rob Brydon (Bryn) all reprise their roles.
Meanwhile it’s been revealed that Sheridan Smith is set to return for the last episode.
She’ll reprise her role of Ruth ‘Rudi’ Smith, sister of Smithy.
Alongside the final episode, an additional one-off documentary will also air.
We certainly can’t wait to see what unfolds in the final episode!
The Christmas 2024 Number 1 single and album has been revealed, Wham! winning the battle and becoming the first song to grab the coveted top spot two festive seasons
The 2024 Christmas Number One has been revealed, with Last Christmas by Wham! reigning supreme once again and making chart history in the process.
Official Charts confirmed that Last Christmas is the first song to clinch two consecutive Christmas Number 1 victories, marking its 40th anniversary as the most-streamed and physically purchased song of the week. Originally penned by the late George Michael for 1984’s Official Christmas Number 1, Last Christmas was initially outshone by Band Aid’s Do They Know It’s Christmas?
But the iconic festive hit finally claimed the festive chart crown in 2023, completing a record-breaking journey to Christmas Number 1 of 39 years. Now recognised as the UK’s favourite Christmas song, Last Christmas fended off stiff competition from Gracie Abrams and Mariah Carey, as well as a spirited attempt by Tom Grennan to disrupt the festive chart race.
Wham! star Andrew Ridgeley is delighted to be number one again
Last Christmas secured the Christmas Number 1 through both digital and physical domination, with 12.6 million streams, and being the best seller of the week physically too, thanks to a range of limited edition 40th anniversary collectibles, including zoetrope vinyl, picture disc and CD.
Earlier this week, bookmakers had Wham! and their festive classic Last Christmas as a sure bet to become to be the first song to claim back-to-back Christmas number ones, after topping the charts for six weeks in 2023. “It seems more and more unlikely that any other contenders will mount a serious challenge for number one, with Tom Grennan (8/1) and Mariah Carey (12/1) some way adrift in the betting,” Lee Phelps from William Hill said on Wednesday. “It looks like the UK is heading towards another year of Wham! dominating the radio waves this Christmas.”
Speaking exclusively to Official Charts, WHAM!’s Andrew Ridgeley says: “37 years to get to Number 1, 39 years to Christmas Number 1, and then like London buses they all come along at once! I’m especially pleased for George, he would have been utterly delighted, his fabulous Christmas composition has become such a classic, almost as much a part of Christmas as mince pies, turkey and pigs in blankets.”
“It’s testament to a really wonderful Christmas song that in a lot of people’s minds evokes and represents Christmas as we would all wish it to be. I’d like to thank everyone who has listened to, downloaded, bought, streamed Last Christmas and been a part of history. Thanks so much and Merry Christmas!”
Last Christmas is the nation’s favourite festive song(
Image: PR)
WHAM! now enter a rare Official Charts club, as one of only a few acts to achieve the Official Christmas Number 1 multiple times. Their peers now include; Queen (2), Spice Girls (3), The Beatles (4) and the current record-holders, LadBaby (5). On WHAM! joining the likes of Queen and The Beatles with multiple festive chart-toppers to their name, Andrew observes: “Artists of that calibre and songwriters, of which George was one, transcend the ages and decades and endure because of their quality. I think that’s the reason why Last Christmas has endured.”
Fans have since taken to social media to share their excitement, with one writing: “The most deserving of winners and record breakers!” “Yippee! George would have been so happy,” exclaimed a second. Meanwhile, another went on to add: “Outstanding achievement!” “Woo hoo Last Christmas went is number one official for Christmas on its 40th Anniversary. Bitter sweet beating Band Aid. Congratulations @GeorgeMichael @ajridgeley @WhamOfficial_,” typed another.
Gracie Abrams’ former chart-topper ‘That’s So True’ has secured the number 2 spot this week, following a last-minute surge ahead of the Christmas competition. This confirms her status as one of this year’s biggest breakout acts. ‘That’s So True’ previously topped the Official Singles Chart for five consecutive weeks. Meanwhile, Mariah Carey, the Queen of Christmas, may be celebrating 30 years of ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ this year, but she has to settle for a finish at number 3, maintaining her position from last week.
Sabrina Carpenter has bagged the Christmas Number 1 Album with her sixth LP Short N Sweet, released in August this year. The album has already produced three UK Number 1 singles; Espresso, Please Please Please and Taste, and shows no signs of leaving the charts anytime soon. Thanks to her Netflix special, A Nonsense Christmas, Sabrina’s album was favourite to claim a second non-consecutive week at Number 1 and receive the prestigious Christmas honour.
Given that Jesus was a carpenter, it seems fitting that Ms Carpenter’s LP should reign supreme on his birthday. However, she faced stiff competition from a familiar festive favourite. Michael Buble, aka Mr Christmas, was hot on Sabrina’s heels in the midweek charts. His 2011 album, Christmas, is a Yuletide classic and was in second place on Monday – just 150 units behind Short ‘N’ Sweet.
Strictly Come Dancing fans were left in hysterics as they took a look back at a blunder that Craig Revel Horwood made following a performance from fellow judge Anton Du Beke.
Strictly Come Dancing’s Craig Revel Horwood was “speechless” after making a gaffe while critiquing Anton Du Beke’s performance.
BBC audiences were treated to a nostalgia-packed evening with ‘ Strictly Come Dancing : 20 Fabulous Years’, honouring two decades of the beloved ballroom competition.
Hosted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the special celebration had the pros, celebs, and a mix of current and former judges spill the tea on their time on the dance floor, complete with plenty of memorable clips spanning twenty glittering years.
One standout moment from just five years ago involved ‘ EastEnders ‘ star Emma Barton and Anton Du Beke, whose Austin Powers-themed salsa caught attention but not for the dancing alone.
During judgment, Craig Revel Horwood got distracted and made a blunder about Antons appearance.
Strictly Come Dancing: 20 Years On saw Craig Revel Horwood apologise for a comment he made about Anton Du Beke five years ago.(
Image: BBC)
Craig pointed out to Anton: “I slightly was distracted with the wig I have to say and the fake teeth that you have in.”
Flash forward to chatting with Claudia and Tess on today’s show, and they revisited that toe-curling occasion with Tess recalling: “Oh my goodness, that was such a moment.”
Craig coined it “teeth gate”, sharing a laugh with Anton who was flabbergasted by the comment: “I can’t believe you thought they were false teeth.”
Siemens EnergySiemens Energy: Steam turbines’ role in fueling the future
Unforgettable Gadgets61 Genius Inventions You Won’t Believe Exist
by Taboola
The trip down memory lane replayed the younger, astonished Craig stammering: “They’re not fake? ” as he realised his mistake.
Shirley Ballas clarified: “They’re not fake teeth, they’re his own teeth”, while Bruno Tonioli couldn’t help but exclaim: “They’re his real teeth!”
Strictly’s Craig Revel Horwood was embarrassed when he mistakenly thought Anton Du Beke was wearing fake teeth during a dance routine.(
Image: (Image: BBC))
Emma, Anton’s dance partner, found the situation “Slightly embarrassing”, and a surprised Craig Revel Horwood apologised: “I’m sorry Anton”.
Reflecting on the incident, Anton Du Beke remarked: “That is literally the first time I’d ever seen you speechless.”
Tess Daly admitted she had “never laughed that hard on live television”, prompting Craig to offer an explanation to his colleague.
Craig Revel Horwood stated: “Well I can only apologise. I’m giving my sincere apologies so that everyone knows at home -“.
However, Anton playfully interrupted with a jibe: “That you have softened. You have changed.”
Craig then concluded: “That I’m very sorry”, as both judges shared a laugh over the memorable scene.
Annie Sugden was the original Emmerdale matriarch (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Seth was one of Emmerdale’s all time greats (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Betty was a force of nature (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Amos ran the Woolpack for 43 years (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Indomitable Eric is Emmerdale’s longest-serving character (Credit: ITV)
If looks could kill, Edna! (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Sandy was a real sweetheart (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Pearl always looked glam (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Poor Rishi met a sad end (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Rodney modelling one of his iconic bolo ties (Credit: ITV)
Bear totally pulls off that leopard gown (Credit: ITV)
