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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.

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It Takes Two host and former Strictly pro Janette Manrara paid tribute to her husband after he returned as a pro

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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!!!”

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Aljaz with fellow Strictly star wife Janette ManraraCredit: Getty – Contributor

Emmerdale’s all-time great golden oldies

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)

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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.

Read more: The live and loves of Paddy Kirk

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.”

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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.

Robin Windsor died in unexplained circumstances in February, and his Strictly Come Dancing partners and friends shared their moving memories of him during a BBC special

Beloved Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor passed away at the age of just 44, found on February 19 this year, and emotions were high during a beautiful tribute in his name.

The BBC celebrated the 20th anniversary of Strictly in a special episode today, and took a moment to remember those involved – hosts, contestants, and pro dancers – who we’ve lost over the years. Robin was honoured by his colleagues and dancers, all of whom highlighted how special he was to them and felt comfortable to let their grief show.

Emmerdale star Lisa Riley – who danced with Robin in 2012 – began the touching homage. “Whoever’s idea it was to put me and Robin Windsor together needs the biggest trophy, bigger than the Glitterball,” she said.

It Takes Two host Janette Manrara lovingly added: “He honestly was Mr. Strictly. He was as camp as Christmas. More tanned than anyone I’ve ever seen before in my life. Didn’t mind wearing sequins on any part of his body.”

Actress Lisa Riley teared up as she shared some of the words she said during her eulogy at Robin’s funeral ( 
Image:
BBC)

Dragons’ Den judge Deborah Meaden followed, saying: “I did Strictly because I wanted to enjoy myself, and Robin understood that. And he was just the best partner.”

“The best part of me and Robin was just at my house, two cups of tea, gossiping like two besties on the couch together, you know?” Lisa described in the moving montage, before pro dancer Aljaž Škorjanec praised: “What a beautiful, beautiful friend, dancer, and just a kind man.”

Karen Hauer explained: “He always took care of us…” with her words tailing off as she struggled to continue. Lisa returned and closed the tribute: “I know full well he’s up there now. He’s dancing a foxtrot. I said it in the eulogy when I read it at his funeral. I said, ‘One day, we’ll dance that foxtrot again together.’” the actress started tearing up as she finished, “And… I truly believe that.”

The late Robin was described as kind, caring and ‘the best partner’ by those who knew him best on Strictly ( 
Image:
Liverpool Echo)The cause or exact date of Robin’s tragic death isn’t yet known, but it has been reported that his body was found inside a London hotel. Robin’s family shared a heartbreaking following his death. A statement shared with The Mirror read: “We would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and celebration of our beloved Robin. While we understand that there is a huge public and media interest around his passing, we as a family need time to process our shock and grief. We ask for the needs of our family and friends to be taken into consideration and for our privacy to be respected at this difficult time.”

Prior to his sudden passing, he reportedly confided in a friend about a “troubling incident” that took place over the New Year. Speaking to the Daily Mail, the friend of the late star recalled: “He kept saying that something had happened over New Year but he wouldn’t say what it was. He sounded absolutely traumatised – whatever had happened must have been truly awful.” Before his death, Robin spent his final days working on a luxury cruise ship and exploring Africa.

Former This Morning presenter Fern Britton enterted a ‘new chapter’ of her life after separating from chef Phil Vickery, with her having moved to Cornwall for a fresh start

Presenter Fern Britton opened up about entering a “new chapter” of her life without a partner this weekend after previously saying that she doesn’t want to get married again.

It was announced in 2020 that Fern, now 67, had separated from her husband, chef Phil Vickery, now 63. Following the end of their marriage, the former This Morning host, who has a daughter with her ex, decided to move to Cornwall.

She spoke about the relocation and her life now whilst on the latest episode of James Martin’s Saturday Morning on ITV. She was interviewed by host James Martin, 52, on the show and said about the move: “It was a brand new chapter, absolutely. I found myself single, children off my hands.”

James later said: “I get the feeling that you’ve gone through so many things in your life – highs and the lows … you’re at a happy place now.” Fern responded to the chef: “I am, actually! I am very happy and this is life for loads of people.”

The host then questioned: “Is that because you don’t have to prove it to anybody anymore?” Fern appeared to take a swipe at her ex-husband, saying that she can now watch whatever she wants on TV and is her “own boss” in life.

Sharing an update on her life at the moment, Fern told James: “I think it’s good because I can sit down in the morning and watch all the daytime television I like. No one is going to judge me for it. I don’t have to get dressed up and made up. This is especially for you, you understand that? Life is good. I’m my own boss now, which is great – in every sense. My life, my work, everything. I’m my own boss and I’m enjoying that.”

Fern Britton spoke about her life whilst a guest on James Martin’s Saturday Morning this weekend ( 
Image:
ITV)
Fern and Phil, who got married in 2000, announced their separation in 2020. The former couple are parents to daughter Winnie Vickery, 23, together. Fern also has three kids from her first marriage to Clive Jones. They are parents to twins Harry Jones and Jack Jones, 30, as well as Grace Jones, 27.

She has spoken about her marriage to Phil on occasion since their split, including once telling Woman & Home magazine: “We simply needed to follow our own paths. Over time we realised we weren’t necessarily having the kind of life we once did. It seemed right to say ‘thank you’ and move on.” She added at the time that she has a “good friendship” with Phil.

Fern, pictured in 2022, teased that she found herself single and with her kids ‘off her hands’ as part of the latest chapter of her life ( 
Image:
Mike Marsland/Getty Images for Good Housekeeping Live)

The presenter was previously married to chef Phil Vickery, though their separation was announced in 2020 ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
Speaking to Good Housekeeping, she said last year: “My children are grown-up and I’m no longer married, and it’s as if this whole other world has opened up. I never thought this would happen; I didn’t expect to be 65 and single and really relaxed.”

Whilst earlier this year, Fern revealed in an interview with the Daily Mail in March that she doesn’t want to “live with anyone” or “get married again”. She said: “I’m a very independent person and the older I get the more I realise I like freedom.”

Fern however shared that she was open to romance, though described the prospect as the “icing on the cake”. She added: “But I don’t want to have to be cooking and cleaning and taking care of anybody. Separate houses would do me nicely.”

Singer and TV star Tulisa Contostavlos tells of secret problems in I’m A Celebrity camp which almost led her to quit ITV show

Tulisa Contostavlos has told how she suffered a secret anxiety attack in the I’m A Celebrity camp – and headed to the UK because she felt like she was “having a breakdown” if she stayed in Australia.

The 36-year-old singer and former X Factor judge speaks bravely and honestly in an emotional podcast interview this weekend.

And fans listening will get the full story of her life including the latest chapter spent in the jungle and what really happened during the aftermath, when she headed home with ITV’s full support. Tulisa had gone into I’m A Celebrity telling the Mirror she hoped it would be part of her “healing journey” and “like therapy”, But the show was harder than she realised and Tulisa admits she even considered quitting the show.

Tulisa said: “Some of the things you didn’t see, I had night terrors for the first four days. I was waking up out of my sleep, and I was having anxiety attacks. Those parts, not everyone knows, so it wasn’t completely smooth sailing for me at all, but I have a great poker face.

“I really can turn it on and especially when I’m faced with adversity. The last thing I wanted to do was go in there and be the hot mess. So if anything, I’m going to be the biggest soldier there is. So as soon as I’m set with a task and I’m going in and jumping out of a plane, I’m going to look like a warrior, because that is what I do. I might sit and cry under the sleeping bag, that’s also a part of who I am.”

Referring to the problems she faced, she added: “I mean, I did cry on the VT at one point, but I definitely had an anxiety attack off-camera, because I went to the smoking area to do it and even then, I didn’t want them to know that I was having an anxiety attack, so I was trying to bring down my heart rate, literally through my nose.

“I was like, ‘Okay, get the heart rate down. Get the heart rate down’. I wanted to leave that day. I was like, ‘I can’t do this but it’s not what I came here for. I came here to stick it out and do whatever I have to do’. And there were lots of amazing moments, really joyful moments, thanks to the people. The people made those moments.”

Tulisa speaks at length to Paul C Brunson on his We Need To Talk podcast
Tulisa lives in the countryside in Greater Manchester and tends to stay out of the spotlight now when she is not on tour with N Dubz. Speaking to podcaster Paul C Brunson she explained how she recently spent several years “dependent” on prescription sleeping tablets, only managing to stop taking them in January of this year.

The memories of getting herself off drugs like diazepam and a battle with anxiety was still fresh in her memory when she took part in the ITV reality series. Tulisa added: “I am a massive introvert. I was really getting a little bit overwhelmed in there, so I was probably the least around in camp.

“I would go and remove myself and go for walks or go and hide in the dunny. I spent 90% of my time alone. The agoraphobia and being alone for so long, I got super overwhelmed being around so many people. They could see that, and they were really understanding about that. They had jokes like, ‘She’s gone to the Airbnb. She’ll be back.’

“You know, they’re like, What are you doing? I’m like, ‘Bro, I’ve just been staring at a palm tree. I just needed a minute’.

“When I came out, I think actually the biggest thing that tipped me over the edge was introvert overload. I had pushed myself into doing this and I was ready to overcome all the fears and being in the spotlight, but being watched consistently, [for] so many hours a day, nowhere to hide, nowhere to run, feeling so exposed. Everyone can see me, and also this underlying fear – probably irrational – of being watched.”

She says the feeling of being watched reminded her of when she was secretly filmed and “under surveillance” by disgraced journalist Mazher Mahmood, aka the Fake Sheikh, whose claims about Tulisa being a drug dealer were thrown out of court in 2014 and dismissed as lies. Tulisa says when she came out of I’m A Celebrity and went into the hotel on the Gold Coast she was emotional and whilst other contestants were “happy campers” the experience weighed heavily on her.

Tulisa Contostavlos during her time in the I’m A Celebrity camp ( 
Image:
ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
She deleted references to the show from her social media and then left the country to go back to the UK instead of staying on for the final as contestants normally do.

Explaining for the first time what really happened next, Tulisa said: “I did what I signed up for, but I came out, I processed, I was feeling the way I was feeling. There’s 11 other really happy campers there that are really happy to be there, happy to have the holiday and do it all with energy, with smiles, and you have someone that’s sat crying in their hotel room. In this current age that we live in, it’s like, ‘You want me to be there out of principle? When I’m having a breakdown right now? I need to go home and process this. If other people are not having the same experience as me, they haven’t had the same experiences in the past and they’re all current people that are doing radios or they’re on television. This is very much the norm for them’. This, for me, was a psychological experiment, for myself.

“ITV were brilliant and supported me knowing what I needed to do for myself.” Tulisa then found comfort being at home and detoxing from social media. Whilst attention remained high around her she was sat at home watching her favourite films with her phone off.

She said: “I stared at the wall, I think, for the first 24 hours in the bed covers, just thinking, processing, phone off. And then I put the Lord of the Rings trilogy on because I’m a nerd and escapism is my thing when I’m feeling overwhelmed. I just sat in bed for four days, phone detox, social media detox, and the people that know me really well know what I’m like, and they were like, ‘It’s okay, just just leave her’ and they were having to speak to other people, because everyone’s like, ‘We can’t get hold of her. She’s gone off the radar. Is she okay?’ My friends that are closest to me, my inner circle, were like ‘She’s good, she’s recharging. She’s on the recharge’.”

Tulisa also uses the in-depth interview with Paul C Brunson to describe how she has faced up to a battle with prescription drugs in recent years during the covid lockdown. She wants to tell fans everything that has happened to her in life so there are “not any more misconceptions of my character”.

During lockdown she became depressed when her dog got cancer and began self medicating with sleeping pills to numb the pain. But she felt like “she was going to die” when she then tried to kick the habit.

She explained: “I was dependent without realising… I just went cold turkey for five days and I ended up in hospital because I didn’t know, but my body had become dependent on it. I felt like I was having a heart attack. I had pains in my chest…. I just literally felt like I was going to die.”

Tulisa used sleeping pills like zopiclone and diazepam in the covid lockdown to help with anxiety and feelings of depression but then found it very difficult to stop, eventually taking months to taper off her dependency on them.

She adds: “Once I overcame that in January, I didn’t realise how much I had been affected by it and I started to feel alive again. I started to feel me, as a human. I was like, ‘Oh my god, this is reality’. I couldn’t determine anymore what was real and what wasn’t in terms of my anxiety, my depression. I didn’t know what was what. Then it takes so long for your body to get back to normal again and for your nervous system to recover.”

Over the years Tulisa has been threatened with prison over untrue media allegations, had to deal with a leaked sex tape and been sexually assaulted when young, But Tulisa says the dependence on prescription drugs was “one of the toughest experiences actually in my life”.

In some ways she says coming through this period in her life gave her the confidence to then take part in I’m A Celebrity. But once in the Australian camp she did suffer with some feelings she had encountered when coming off the pills. Looking ahead to a positive future, Tulisa also says in her new podcast interview she will continue with her music and has also written a novel which she hopes could one day be turned into a film. She said: “I’m in that peaceful era of just, ‘Do I feel passionate about it? All right, I’ll do it. Do I not? I’m staying at home and I won’t do it’.

Linda Nolan has incurable cancer and her family have been with her every step of the way – and her sister and Loose Women star Coleen has issued a lovely gesture to the star

Linda Nolan is heartbreakingly living with incurable cancer but one thing’s for sure, she still strives to see the positives in her life. And her sister and Loose Women star Coleen Nolan is helping her every step of the way. In fact, during OK!’s exclusive photoshoot, Linda revealed her New Year’s Eve plans with her sisters. She aid: “There’s a big New Year’s Eve party at Coleen’s. She’s booked us all into a hotel up the road, so it should be great fun.”

Linda – who has moved in with her sister Denise and her husband Tom – she continues to live with the disease that also took the life of her beloved sister Bernie in 2013 at the age of 52. “I try to stay positive,” she insisted. “I’ll use jokes and humour as a way to cope, but of course it’s scary. And I have my days where I’m terribly down.” It’s been 50 years since Linda first rose to fame in The Nolans, selling 30 million records with hits such as Attention To Me, Gotta Pull Myself Together and I’m In The Mood For Dancing. It’s clear the support of her siblings has been a huge help to Linda, who lost her husband Brian to liver cancer in 2007.

Linda has incurable cancer ( 
Image:
OK!/David Cummings)

Coleen is hosting a festive party for the family ( 
Image:
OK! Magazine / David Cummings)
Now, with the help of Denise and their surviving sisters Maureen, Anne and Coleen, as well as brothers Tommy and Brian, Linda has managed to find positives in her situation – though she acknowledges not everyone is able to stay as upbeat as she does about her diagnosis. “I’ve got an amazing family and great friends, some I’ve known since primary school,” she explains. “And I try to get out to walk with them at least twice a week, which is key in keeping me active and staying positive. It gets the endorphins flowing.”

She continued: “But a lot of people just don’t know what to say to me. I don’t sit and talk about cancer all the time. But people don’t realise that. I’ve had people I know cross the road to avoid me. If you don’t know what to say to me, tell me that. It’s OK to say, ‘I don’t know what to say, but I’m here for you.’” One thing Linda’s not keen on hearing, however, is talk of wills and finances, giving a strong insight into her thought process around death.

“When people start talking about putting things in order – I don’t want to talk about that,” she says, sighing. “I don’t want to think about my affairs. It’s so final. Every birthday, I want to make it to the next one. I have to be like that, I can’t be a grey cloud of doom. There are days when I do need to stay in bed, I just can’t ‘do’ the day, but on the whole, I try to stay as strong as possible.”

Coronation Street is lining up an unmissable Christmas Day episode this year, with one icon bowing out of the ITV soap for good, while there’s drama, danger, bombshells and a proposal

Fans can expect festive fun and some full-on drama on Coronation Street this Christmas Day.

Spoilers for the big episode have revealed sad scenes will air, as Gail Platt will bow out of the ITV soap for good. After 50 years in the role, actress Helen Worth is stepping away from the show and Christmas Day will be her final episode.

With some details about the episodes being kept under wraps, it remains to be seen whether she will get a happy ending. Elsewhere this Christmas Day, two residents find themselves in trouble with the law, as one character takes a brutal revenge.

This results in quite the catfight. There’s also a proposal amid a secret betrayal, and an affair prediction lands one character in danger. Here’s all you need to know about Christmas Day in Weatherfield…

Gail Platt leaves Coronation Street this Christmas ( 
Image:
ITV)

There’s drama, danger, bom

Gail’s final episode

Gail Platt makes her exit from the ITV soap in this episode. it’s said to focus around the Platts and Gail, as she questions whether she can go through with her wedding to Jesse Chadwick.

Falling out with her family who do not approve of Jesse, Gail is unsure about her plans to move to France with him. But will she make it down the aisle, and will she and Jesse head off into the sunset?

It’ll be tears all round as we see Gail, and actress Helen, bid farewell to the street and her loved ones after five decades on the show. While we can’t reveal how she leaves and whether it’s a happy ending, we can confirm there’s a lot going on as the Platts gather for the wedding that may or may not go ahead.

Danger teased and bombshells

Adam Barlow could be left injured, as David Platt’s determination to uncover a truth leads to chaos. David suspects wife Shona Platt of cheating on him, and he believes Adam is the man in question.

Adam knocks back whisky, unaware David is drinking water. Soon Adam realises what’s gone on and there’s a row, with Adam tumbling down some steps, but will he be okay? Shona could be forced to reveal that she has cheated on David with Kit Green, with it teased bombshells go off all across the episode.

Spoilers for the big episode have revealed sad scenes will air ( 
Image:
ITV)

A proposal

Amidst the chaos, love seems to be in the air as Daniel Osbourne pops the question to girlfriend Bethany Platt. Of course she has no idea that he’s cheated on her with his ex Daisy Midgeley.

When Bethany senses Daniel is not himself and she fears he is no longer interested in her, Daniel declares his love for her and proposes on Christmas Day. But will she say yes, and how will Daisy react to the big news?

Violent showdown

There’s a catfight on the way as sisters Leanne and Toyah Battersby go to war over Nick Tilsley. Leanne has secretly been plotting revenge against ex Nick and sister Toyah after they continued their secret romance.

Leanne had just about gotten over their affair months ago, only to find out they had reunited in secret. Leanne has tried setting the pair up, framing Toyah for fraud and intending on dragging Nick into it too.

On the day of Nick’s mum Gail’s wedding, there’s chaos when the police show up and tell Nick and Toyah that they need to ask them some questions on a fraud allegation. As Kit shows Nick the account in question, Nick assures Kit he’s never seen it before – but is he in big trouble?

At the police station a row breaks out between Toyah and Leanne, and it soon escalates into a huge fight. Will the sisters be able to come back from this?