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Actress Denise Welch has poked fun at the 14-year age gap in her relationship with her husband Lincoln Townley as she wished him a happy birthday this morning

Actress Denise Welch jokingly poked fun at her age-gap romance as she wished her husband a happy birthday this morning.

The Waterloo Road star, 66, has been married to her PR manager Lincoln Townley, 52, since July 2013. The pair got together shortly after she announced her split from Tim Healy. Denise and Tim share two sons together, 1975 frontman Matty and actor Louis.

Making light of the 14-year age gap in her marriage, Denise shared a snap of herself and birthday boy Lincoln on her Instagram Stories and captioned it: “”Happy birthday to my best friend in the entire world @lincolntownley. At 52, a tad too old for me but I’m ok with that.”

Earlier this month, Denise reached a milestone in her career as she became the first actress to appear in all four main UK soaps. The Loose Women announced her role in Emmerdale ahead of her stint on the ITV soap involving Belle Dingle finally getting justice thanks to Tom King being jailed.

Loose Women: Denise Welch says her stalker is being freed early

Denise Welch tied the knot back in 2013 ( 
Image:
Instagram/ @denise_welch)

Denise recently achieved a major soap honour

Denise couldn’t contain her excitement as she revealed some juicy details to the Loose Women panel and the viewers at home: “I’m going to be in Emmerdale! ” She expressed her enthusiasm about the special one-hour episode, an Emmerdale first, saying: “It’s a one-off one hour special and it’s the first time Emmerdale have ever done it. And for those of you who are fans of Emmerdale, there is a very powerful year-long story of domestic abuse. Which of course, appealed to me when I knew I’d be part of it because of our Facing It Together campaign, and this is a culmination of that story.”

Denise went on to describe her character: “The episode takes place exclusively between the court and the jury and I am one of the head’s of the jury called Heidi. Obviously, I can’t say what the outcome is, but it’s a very, very powerful episode and some of the lines are taken from true cases. Refuge have seen it and they’re thrilled with how it’s been depicted so it was incredible to be a part of it, and that’s on I think December 19.”

Denise has hit a significant milestone in her acting journey by joining the cast of Emmerdale, an achievement she eagerly celebrated, exclaiming: “So I’ve now been in all four soaps.” This accolade led to applause from the audience. She expanded on this unique career landmark, saying: “‘I saw on social media that I’m now a CHEE and that’s because it’s quite something in America to be an EGOT, which is the winner of an Emmy, a Grammy, and Oscar and a Tony. So not quite that level, but Corrie, Hollyoaks, EastEnders, and Emmerdale.”

Actress Denise is believed to be the first star awarded the new status symbol of ‘CHEE’ for having roles in Coronation Street, EastEnders, Hollyoaks, and now Emmerdale. Starting as an actress at 12 and bursting onto the scene with ITV series Soldier, Soldier in 1993, it wasn’t until she stepped behind the bar as Rovers’ Natalie Barnes that Denise truly became a national treasure.

Her memorable stint on Corrie from 1997 to 2000 included a steamy affair with Kevin Webster amid his marriage to Sally and a whirlwind marriage to Des Barnes, ending with her ascent as the Rovers Return landlady. Her dramatic departure from the soap involved fleeing Weatherfield expecting Vinny Sorrel’s child, who turned out to be unfaithful with her sister Debs, leaving her to start anew elsewhere. By 2001, fans discovered Natalie had given birth to Laura and was making a new life in the Cotswolds with family.

James Corden has shared some behind-the-scenes snaps of the final episode of Gavin And Stacey after the BBC series secured the highest Christmas Day ratings since 2008

Actor James Corden has thanked fans for tuning into the finale of his hit sitcom Gavin And Stacey after it secured the highest Christmas Day ratings since 2008 by sharing some behind-the-scenes snaps.

The co-creator of the BBC comedy, with Ruth Jones, wrote an emotional farewell to the show, which drew an average audience of 12.3 million on Christmas Day, according to overnight figures. On Thursday night, James took to Instagram to share some special pictures with his 6.2million followers.

“Here’s some behind the scenes photos from the special,” the Smithy actor wrote as he captioned the previously unseen snaps. “Thank you so much to everyone who watched last night. It means more than you’ll know. All my love, James xx.”

James Corden and Ruth Jones have been hailed geniuses for the Gavin and Stacey finale

The Smithy actor shared a series of behind-the-scene snaps as he thanked fans for watching
Underneath the post, music producer Darren Styles wrote: “The perfect ending! BRB (Be right back) while I rewatch every episode for the millionth time.” Girls Aloud star Kimberley Walsh wrote: “Aw loved it so much.” Arlene Phillips added: “Cannot even express the emotional roller coaster of the brilliant final episode.

“I laughed , I cried , a lot , and could only marvel at the brilliant script and the epic cast. Ruth Jones and her silent stares was one of the most powerful performances on TV . And suddenly , that’s it. It’s over.” One fan told James: “Great ending. I will miss these characters so much. Thanks for creating this show and giving us a beautiful my wrapped bow to end it all.”

Line of Duty star Anna Maxwell Martin made a cameo in the finale

And all the familiar faces from the original series were there tooJames also shared photos of him as Neil ‘Smithy’ Smith, and his co-creator Ruth Jones as Vanessa ‘Nessa’ Jenkins along with the cast filming Gavin And Stacey: The Finale in Wales. This included Sonia (Laura Aikman) – Smithy’s girlfriend from the 2019 Christmas Day episode, which ended with a cliff-hanger when Nessa proposed to him – returning as a bride to be.

The photo, shared by James, sees Nessa in the background looking in low spirits while Sonia is wearing a wedding dress and the cast is holding up masks of her face. In the final episode, many guests stood up when asked if anyone objects to the marriage, and Smithy realised he has to confess his true love to Nessa, who the finale revealed had her proposal interrupted in 2019 before Smithy could give his answer and the pair never discussed it again.

After racing to meet Nessa before she goes to work on the ships again, Smithy proposed to her and the final scene featured a heartwarming montage of a low-key wedding, with her sporting a black dress and the couple finally getting their happily ever after – much to the delight of relieved viewers.

Uncle Bryn has seen better days

James’ behind-the-scenes snaps have made fan emotional
The series – written by Ruth and James – originally aired between 2007 and 2010, and told the long-distance love story of title characters Stacey Shipman (Joanna Page) and Gavin (Mathew Horne). It returned in 2019 for a special episode that at the time held the record for the highest overnight Christmas ratings since 2008.

The 2019 Christmas episode had an overnight audience of 11.6 million. It was also the top viewed programme in the BBC’s schedule, with the new Wallace and Gromit film, Vengeance Most Fowl, in second place with an average overnight audience of 9.4 million, while the King’s speech attracted an average of 5.0 million viewers.

Gavin And Stacey star Laura Aikman has revealed her family only discovered she was returning to the BBC sitcom while watching the finale on Christmas Day. The actress, 39, shared a video on Instagram showing her family screaming in shock as her character Sonia appears on screen for the first time.

Sonia, the ex-girlfriend of Neil ‘Smithy’ Smith returns for the final Christmas special in a crucial plot twist that is revealed when they meet in a John Lewis shop to work on their wedding gifts registry. One member of Laura’s family can be heard shouting “press pause” while another tells her “you never told me”, to which Laura replies: “We never told anyone”.

The cast and crew went to great measures to keep the finale plot under wraps

The Christmas special has achieved record-breaking viewing figures
On the video she wrote “the moment my family realise Sonia is ruining Christmas again” and captioned the post “I take an NDA very seriously”. She also shared a photo of a cast board of all the Gavin And Stacey characters which has a space missing where her picture would have been.

The 2024 festive finale teased viewers as it began with the family of Stacey Shipman, played by Joanna Page, and her husband Gavin, portrayed by Mathew Horne, preparing for a wedding. Fans had been hoping it would be Smithy and Nessa walking down the aisle, but Wednesday’s special revealed Nessa’s proposal was interrupted before Smithy could give his answer and the pair never discussed it again.

Sonia has a number of “bridezilla” moments including criticising Smithy at the altar over his shoe choice. Throughout the 90-minute episode, Smithy’s friends and family question if Sonia is the right one for him, with best man Gavin finally telling Smithy he thinks it is a mistake during the ceremony.

After many guests – including Neil the Baby, Smithy and Nessa’s teenage son – stand up when asked if anyone objects to the marriage, Smithy realises he has to confess his true love and leaves Sonia a jilted bride as he races to Southampton to find Nessa and declare his love for her.

The documentary Gavin And Stacey: A Fond Farewell will be shown at 7pm on New Year’s Day on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

BBC’s Mrs Brown’s Boys has been a mainstay on our screens for over a decade but has seen a huge decline in viewers over the years – with the 2024 Christmas special pulling in just 2.2 million

The ratings for Mrs Brown’s Boys have taken a nosedive, following a poorly received Christmas special and growing calls for the comedy series to be cancelled.

The contentious BBC show, which centres around the meddling Agnes Brown (portrayed by Brendan O’Carroll), has broadcast five series and 12 Christmas Day specials since its inception in 2011.

Despite its crude and provocative humour attracting millions of viewers over the years, with the first Christmas Day special in 2013 drawing an impressive 11.52 million viewers nationwide, this marked its zenith. Following this, the show’s viewership averaged around nine million as it gradually lost popularity.

The last time it made the top 10 rated shows on Christmas day was in 2020, pulling in 3.8 million viewers, and it has only continued its downward trajectory since then.

Brendan O’Carroll as Mrs Brown ( 
Image:
BBC / BocPIX / Greame Hunter)

This culminated in the 2024 Christmas Special (Ding Dong Mammy), where Mrs Brown must ‘convince her nearest and dearest that she’s not grumpy’, securing a paltry 2.2 million viewers.

Now, BBC viewers are calling for the long-running show to be cancelled. After the Christmas special aired, one viewer took to X to write: “I’m so sick of seeing Mrs Brown’s Boys on TV every single Christmas. Why would they air that s**t and take up time for good shows.”

Another quipped: “Whoever thinks Mrs Brown’s Boys is funny needs to give their heads a wobble. Please let it end once and for all.” Another unimpressed viewer agreed: “The most idiotic show on TV throughout the past decade. I turned it on to see if it’s as bad as everyone is saying, and it was ten times worse.”

Someone else fumed: “It was funny ten years ago but it needs to be cancelled and never put on air again. Where is the humour? Nowhere to be seen that’s where.”

BBC viewers have called for Mrs Brown’s Boys to be axed ( 
Image:
BBC / BocPIX / Greame Hunter)
Earlier this year, lead actor O’Carroll, 69, faced backlash after it came to light that the comedian had made a ‘clumsy joke’ implying a ‘racial term’ on set, leading to a Black staff member reportedly leaving the show and prompting a BBC investigation. This incident intensified calls for the show to be removed from screens, but these were ultimately unsuccessful.

In a recent interview, O’Carroll expressed his satisfaction at having a prime spot on the BBC. Speaking to TV Guide, he expressed his pride and privilege in being part of the BBC family, saying: “To have that now as my slot, particularly on the BBC, I’m very proud to be part of the BBC family. It is a privilege and to have had it for 11, 12 years now, I only signed up for 18 episodes and this will be 51.”

As of now, there’s no word on whether the BBC plans to renew the show for end-of-year-specials in 2025.

The pair met on the 2018 season

Saturday night, with Joe and Dianne making a special appearance.

Just over a week ago Dianne lifted the Gliterball trophy for the first time, alongside her dance partner, Chris McCausland.

Joe and Dianne open up about future plans.(Credit: BBC)

Joe and Dianne met on Strictly

The Australian dancer has been a part of the show since 2017. And despite making it to the final on many occasions, this year was her first at getting the number one spot.

Not only has Dianne been an adored dancer on the show, she also met her boyfriend, Joe Sugg on the dance floor. The pair were partnered up for the 2018 season.

While they made it to the final, they weren’t crowned champions. But both have admitted they “won something more special”.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BBC Strictly (@bbcstrictly)

Now, the pair have been together for six years, living in a £3.5 million Sussex home. But fans often want to know their future plans. And they seem to have given a slight hint.

That will be the sort of clip we show our great, great grandchildren.

In the anniversary special, Joe and Dianne were watching some of their performances back. And Joe admitted: “The Quickstep at Blackpool was my favourite dance for many reasons. I had my family come up to watch. More importantly my nan. She used to dance there when she was younger.”

Joe then teased the couple’s family plans as he said: “That will be the sort of clip we show our great, great grandchildren.”

Joe and Dianne danced together on the 2018 season (Credit: BBC)

Fans react to Joe’s baby comments

The line clearly made Dianne happy as she enthusiastically agreed with her partner. But she wasn’t the only one who loved hearing Joe talk about the future, as fans took to social media to share how happy it made them.

One wrote: “Joe and Dianne talking about having kids makes me smile so much. They talk about it a lot more recently than in the past.”

Another quoted Joe, but added a string of crying emojis alongside.

A third wanted even more from the couple. They penned: “I would love to see a wedding soon. Such a gorgeous couple.”

“I loved Joe and Dianne’s time together on Strictly. It’s so sweet they are still so in love with each other after six years,” another commented.

 

Would you like to see Joe and Dianne take their relationship to the next step? Leave a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know your thoughts!

British spies are to share its “most discreet and sensitive work” with Norway to counter a worrying threat from Russia, it is reported.

A deal is understood to have been agreed between the UK’s National Authority for Counter-Eavesdropping and the Norwegian National Security Authority, with Sir Keir Starmer “seized by the threat” posed by Vladimir Putin ’s security services.

The two agencies will reportedly share methods of countering covert listening devices planted by hostile states like Russia, with greater cooperation due to the threat from spying. It comes with the Prime Minister also speaking at the Joint Expeditionary Force conference in Estonia with other Baltic states and he is set to visit British troops serving on Russia’s border.

The Prime Minister will again attend the JEF summit, joining leaders from the Nordics and Baltics to discuss support for Ukraine, the sustained threat posed by Russia and wider European security.

Keir Starmer talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr on Monday ( 
Image:
Getty Images)

And before that summit he attended a meeting to discuss intelligence and security at Haakonsvern Naval Base, Norway’s Navy HQ, reported The Sun. It was there that Sir Keir was informed of the “sophisticated subsea threats to energy, critical national infrastructure, and domestic security”.

And a source close to the PM said he was “seized by the threat posed by Russia and is focused on protecting the UK and our allies from Putin’s reckless actions”. The new reported deal between the British and Norwegian intelligence agencies will include the sharing of some of the UK’s “most discreet and sensitive work” said a source.

Due to its proximity to Russia, British defence activity has tripled in Norway over the past few years with more than 5,000 troops training and exercising in the country. While, in Estonia, Sir Keir, was also asked what else could be done to support Ukraine in its war with Russia, and he said: “There is an ever-increasing demand for more capability. That is understandable, and Ukraine needs all the capability that it can get, so I think all of us have put in more capability into Ukraine by way of equipment.”

He added: “A lot of money has been raised, funding has been raised, but more is going to be needed.” The Prime Minister’s also discussed making the economic case at home for continued support for Ukraine. Sir Keir said: “Making the case on the significance of Ukraine, making the case, to double down, linking it back to each of our countries – what does it mean for us if Russia succeeds, is a really important question that we have to answer with our people to make it clear why it is that we are so supportive of Ukraine, why it is that we must stand with our allies on this, why it is we must make sure that NATO is put in the strongest position as well.

“Now, this is a different world to the world of 10, 20 years ago, to recognise the world that we are living in, there’s a positive case as well to be made. Defence spending doesn’t sort of sit in a silo over here with no effect on the rest of the economy, no effect on technology. It has a huge effect on technologies, the cutting edge of technology and change which can then be used in other areas.

“It binds countries together. I think all of us have got joint projects on in terms of defence capabilities that bind us together. There’s a huge number of well-paid jobs that are very important to our economy in defence spending as well. But we have to make that positive case. I don’t personally feel that we can sort of sit back and assume that all of those in our respective countries necessarily accept all of our arguments unless we make them in that positive way, which I do think the argument can and should and must be made.

“But the challenge that you put to us is the right challenge, which is it’s very difficult when finances are tight, as they are in all of our countries.” On Tuesday morning the Prime Minister will meet Taavi Madiberk, the founder of Estonian tech start-up manufacturing low-cost air defence missiles, Frankenburg Technologies, which is planning to open a new office in London. Specialising in the manufacture of the missiles, the rapidly growing company already collaborates closely with the UK defence industry, sourcing a significant portion of its subsystems locally, including from propulsion specialists Roxel in Worcestershire. The Mirror has contacted the MoD for comment.

2025 is just around the corner, but before we ring in the new year, it’s time to toast the old one with the last of the Christmas cheese and the final turkey sandwich.

Our brilliant Mirror photographers were kept busier than Santa’s elves this year, bringing us the news from every corner of the globe – as well as closer to home.

Here, our snappers have picked their favourite shots of 2024, from the Princess of Wales’ triumphant return to the public eye after her cancer battle when she appeared at Wimbledon, to new Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s landslide Labour victory, and the devastating aftermath of the Stockport riots just weeks later.

Mel B’s scary life – taken by Adam Gerrard (March 7)

 

UK weather: Chilly and dry conditions forecast by Met Office

 

Spice Girl Mel B talks about her book, Brutally Honest ( 
Image:
Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)

Spice Girl Mel B sat down with the Mirror’s Laura Armstrong shortly before Mother’s Day to discuss her book, Brutally Honest.

The singer, 49, admitted having some scary rows with her own mum after moving herself and her three children into Andrea’s bungalow following the breakdown of her abusive marriage to Stephen Belafonte.

Sunderland burns – taken by Andy Commins (August 2)

Riots broke out after three girls were stabbed to death in Southport ( 
Image:
Andy Commins / Daily Mirror)
Riot police look on as a car burns at a demonstration in Sunderland city centre days after three girls were stabbed to death in Southport.

Axel Rudakubana, 18, has been charged with the murders of Elsie Dot Stancombe, Alice da Silva Aguiar, and Bebe King. Not guilty pleas were entered on his behalf at a hearing in October, ahead of his trial set to begin on January 20.

Olympics synchronicity – taken by Andy Stenning (July 29)

Tom Daley and Noah Williams won silver in Paris ( 
Image:
Andy Stenning/Daily Mirror)
Tom Daley and his dive partner Noah Williams’ silver medal-winning 10m men’s synchro at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Tom, 30, was supported by husband Dustin Lance Black and their two children who were watching on in the stands.

The champion diver announced his retirement after the Games, saying: “I want to be with my family. I’m really excited to be able to spend some time with them and just be able to feel a bit normal for a couple of days.”

Election night victory – taken by Ian Vogler (July 5)

Sir Keir Starmer is joined by wife Victoria at the election count for his London Holborn and St Pancras constituency.

His Labour party swept to victory at this summer’s General Election, putting an end to 14 years of Tory rule and returning 402 MPs, catapulting Starmer into No.10.

The return of Donald Trump – taken by Jonathan Buckmaster (November 3)

Donald Trump at an election rally ahead of his victory in November ( 
Image:
Jonathan Buckmaster)
It was quite the year for elections, as Donald Trump stormed to victory over Democrat candidate Kamala Harris in early November.

Convicted criminal Trump had previously been ousted by Joe Biden after a failed run at a second term in 2020, but his Make America Great Again movement proved more popular against Harris’ ‘We Are Not Going Back’.

Trump, seen here at a rally in Salem, Virginia, survived an assassination attempt during the campaign and successfully lobbied for sentencing in his hush money case – in which he was found guilty in each of his 34 felony counts – to be delayed.

Thea Valman remembered the terror of living through Kristalnacht and escaping the Nazis ( 
Image:
Philip Coburn)
Thea Valman cuddles her doll, Lily, the last memento of her childhood in pre-Second World War Vienna. Now 90 and living in London, Thea remembers the terror of living through Kristalnacht as a four-year-old Jewish girl and watching her father being captured by the Gestapo.

Lily – a present from an uncle who was murdered by the Nazis – survived her family’s lucky escape to the UK and was restored by a kind woman Thea met during the Blitz.

Welcome back, Princess Kate – taken by Phil Harris (July 14)

Kate stunned the crowds at Wimbledon ( 
Image:
Phil Harris / Daily Mirror)
The Princess of Wales stunned crowds at Wimbledon when she made a rare public appearance to present the winner’s trophy to Carlos Alcaraz after a thrilling men’s final against Novak Djokovic.

In March, Kate Middleton announced she had cancer and would be taking a step back from her royal duties to undergo treatment and recover.

Then in July, she was joined by daughter Princess Charlotte and sister Pippa Middleton for the Championships, and waved to the cheering crowds as she wowed in a purple Safiyaa midi-dress.

Stockport tributes – taken by Rowan Griffiths (August 2)

Floral tributes left for the three girls who ost their lives in the Southport stabbings.
Floral tributes left for the three girls stabbed to death in Southport on July 29.

Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, and six-year-old Bebe King were killed at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class at the start of the summer holidays.

Axel Rudakubana, 18, has been charged with their murders, and not guilty pleas were entered on his behalf at a hearing in October, ahead of his trial set to begin on January 20.

Actress Martine McCutcheon will be hoping 2025 is a happier year for her as she suffers another cruel blow following her split from husband Jack McManus.

The Love Actually actress, 48, and musician Jack, 40, called time on their romance over the summer after 18 years together, with Martine seemingly revealing she was against a separation and Jack was the one to pull the plug on their marriage.

And in another cruel blow for the former EastEnders actress, it’s reported that Martine has been forced to slash the asking price of her once happy marital home as she looks to sell up ahead of their divorce. Jack and Martine actually listed the £1.5million house in Surrey for sale in May, three months prior to announcing their split.

The house, where the former couple lived with nine-year-old son Rafferty, was purchased by Martine and Jack for £1.3 million in June 2022. Despite originally listing it for sale at £1.5million, the exes have since slashed the price by £250,000, according to the MailOnline- meaning they look set to lose £500,000 should it sell for the £1.25million they’re asking for.

In November, Martine opened up about her unexpected split from husband Jack in August, suggesting that the divorce has led to a loss of friends. Since the surprising news broke, Martine has experienced a dip in her social life, feeling rather “blah” about it all. But recently, one of her dearest friends encouraged her to go out, resulting in a lively night where they were the last to leave a local bar.

Jack McManus (L) and Martine McCutcheon announced their split over the summer ( 
Image:
Dave Benett/Getty Images)

The former couple are now looking to sell their Surrey home ( 
Image:
Instagram)
Despite this boost, Martine disclosed that she’s had fallouts with some friends who took sides post-divorce. On Instagram, alongside cheerful snaps from her night out, Martine expressed her gratitude: “About Last night… My darling friend @samanthajm managed to get me ‘Out Out’ for first time in months! ! ! ! ! Whoop whoop! “.

Martine gushed about her recent night out, admitting she initially wasn’t in the mood: “If I’m honest, I was feeling all ‘blah’ and not into it at all! But she wasn’t giving up on me and she was right not to! We had SO much fun! Whoop! Whoop! We were the last ones there (Oh yes! Turns out Martine’s still got it! )”

She found herself uplifted by the encounter with fans who’ve been following her journey: “A couple we met, were so lovely too and apparently, have followed my career and my insta for years (Great taste obvs! ) So a massive shout out to them – Thank you for the lovely compliments, care and for making my head swell to the size of Brazil!”

Reflecting on personal changes, Martine shared: “And Samantha, you know that any break up after 18 years isn’t easy, in fact there are some facets that can feel brutal… Mutual ‘friends’ have gone silent, or have clearly picked a side, when they were never, even asked to! But I’m so lucky to have you!”

She heaped praise on her friend for her support: “You are a gracious, fair, loving, thoughtful, friend and you show them all how it’s done darling! Thank you for being so wonderful to me and Rafferty and Jack and for taking the time to make me feel seen and heard. It means so much! I love you ‘Mate! ‘ #watchout #shesoutout #greatnight #neededitmorethanithought #greatfriends.”

Martine left her fans in shock when she announced her plans to divorce in August, posting online: “After much thought and consideration, Jack has decided it’s best for us to separate after 18 years together and I accept his decision. We are both so very blessed and grateful for our beautiful, nine-year-old son Rafferty, who’s happiness and welfare has always been, and will continue to be, our number one priority.”

She further added: “We both of course, still cherish and look forward to being parents together to our wonderful boy for the rest of our lives. Whilst this decision has evolved over a period of time, we are still finding our new way forward as a family and kindly ask for some privacy at this time… Especially for our little boy.”

Christian Horner says he has had “tremendous support” from his wife Geri despite the allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” made against him earlier this year.

On the eve of the 2024 season, it emerged that a female colleague had complained about Horner and that the Red Bull parent company had launched an investigation. The long-serving team principal and CEO strongly denied the claims and he was later cleared by an external KC hired by Red Bull to look into the matter.

Following that verdict, messages supposedly between Horner and his accuser were leaked to journalists and senior figures within the sport. The complainant was later suspended by the team and told it was because she had been found to have been dishonest.

She exercised her right of appeal but eventually, in early August, Red Bull Racing confirmed that it too had been dismissed by a second independent KC. The situation often overshadowed what was happening on track, even if Red Bull and Max Verstappen were still dominant in the early stages of the year despite it all.

Now, speaking to RacingNews365, Horner has paid tribute to the support he received which helped to make that happen, both within the race team and from his wife, Spice Girls singer Geri Halliwell. He said: “You’ve got to stick to your own principles and beliefs.

“I had tremendous support from within the team. Whilst there was a lot of noise in the paddock, whenever you cross the red line into the garage, it was business as normal.

“You never give up, you find out who your friends are and 100 percent [I didn’t consider stepping down], but it is a year I wouldn’t like to repeat. I think sitting here in December with the results that we’ve achieved is testimony to the strength and depth that we have in the team.

“I just believed in myself and the process and and my focus was to ensure that we kept winning, and we kept kept delivering. I’ve had tremendous support from my family and my wife and at the end of the day, that’s the most important thing.

“It’s certainly been a challenging year, but we’ve seen our driver defend his fourth drivers’ world championship, have won nine Grand Prix, qualified first nine times – even though he didn’t start from pole position nine times – and have won four sprint races.

“It’s been a strong campaign from the team, and particularly from Max, to get those kind of results, which are more wins than any other team in the pit-lane. Sometimes in adversity, of course, others look to capitalize on it, but it does galvanize the team and I felt that’s what happened this year.”

Meghan Markle, and her attempts to land a role in Tyler Perry’s upcoming Netflix film, The 6888.

Tyler Perry, despite his past support of the Sussexes, has drawn a very clear line when it comes to serious filmmaking. His upcoming project, The 6888, is no small feat—it’s based on the powerful true story of an all-black, all-female battalion during World War II. This is serious historical filmmaking, with Kerry Washington attached to star.

Tyler Perry didn’t build his empire by making poor casting choices. The man knows talent when he sees it, and he definitely knows when someone doesn’t have it. So, let’s think about Meghan’s acting resume for a moment: a few small roles and seven seasons on Suits, where she basically played herself. Compare that to Kerry Washington’s impressive body of work, and it’s easy to see why Perry would want to protect the integrity of this important project.What really strikes me here is the stark contrast between Meghan’s perception of herself and reality. She apparently thinks she can step into a role meant for someone like Kerry Washington, an acclaimed actress with genuine talent. The audacity is almost breathtaking.

 

Now, here’s where things get even more interesting. Remember when Meghan showed up at Tyler Perry’s theater opening? Well, now we might be seeing the real motivation behind that appearance. It wasn’t just about getting some photos and headlines. Meghan may have been trying to leverage their past connection into a role in his new film. This is classic Meghan behavior—turning personal connections into professional opportunities, regardless of qualifications.

Imagine what it would have meant if Tyler Perry had cast Meghan in The 6888. First, the entire production would have been overshadowed by the circus of being associated with a controversial former royal. Constant security, paparazzi, and Harry hovering around would have turned this serious historical drama into yet another chapter of the Meghan and Harry show. And let’s not forget the rumored demands—private chefs, Michelle Obama flown in, a custom trailer bigger than everyone else’s… the whole thing would have been a spectacle.

But let’s not overlook the timing of this rejection—it couldn’t have come at a worse time for Meghan and Harry. Their Netflix projects are falling flat, and have you seen the reviews for Harry’s Polo documentary? Even polo experts are laughing at it. The reality is that Hollywood is waking up to what the UK figured out years ago—Meghan Markle may be great at generating headlines, but when it comes to actual talent, well, let’s just say there’s a reason she was doing cable TV guest spots before meeting Harry.

Think about it: what have Meghan and Harry actually produced since signing that massive Netflix deal? A documentary about themselves, mostly complaining about the royal family. A documentary about the Invictus Games that somehow managed to make it more about them than the veterans. And now, this Polo disaster. It’s all style over substance, and Hollywood is starting to notice.

What’s particularly telling about this Tyler Perry situation is that it shows even their supposed friends are starting to draw boundaries. Perry has been incredibly generous to them—letting them stay in his house, donating to their foundation—but when it comes to his actual art, his business, that’s where he draws the line. And that has to sting.

Remember when Oprah was Meghan’s biggest cheerleader? Have you noticed how quiet that friendship has become lately? Meghan wasn’t even at Gail King’s 70th birthday party, an event Oprah hosted. The Hollywood elite are slowly but surely distancing themselves, and this rejection by Tyler Perry is just the latest example.

Now, let’s talk about timing. This rejection comes right as Meghan’s trying to launch her American brand, “Sierra Orchard,” clearly attempting to reinvent herself once again—from actress to royal to lifestyle guru. But these constant rejections from Hollywood must be making that pivot look more like a retreat than a strategic move.

The irony here is almost delicious. Meghan walked away from royal duties, claiming she wanted the freedom to pursue her passions, including acting. But now, it turns out that when you burn bridges with the royal family, you can’t just waltz back into Hollywood and expect major roles, especially not in serious historical dramas alongside respected actresses like Kerry Washington.

This situation highlights a fundamental difference between earning something and expecting it to be handed to you. Kerry Washington has spent decades honing her craft, taking challenging roles, proving herself time and again. She’s earned her place in Hollywood. Meanwhile, Meghan seems to think that because she married a prince and generated a lot of headlines, she deserves to step into starring roles in important films.

And let’s not forget what this film is actually about—The 6888 tells the story of the 6888 Battalion, the only all-black, all-female battalion to serve in Europe during World War II. These were real women who faced incredible discrimination and challenges, serving their country despite everything stacked against them. The last thing this story needs is to become a vehicle for Meghan’s self-promotion.

The contrast between Meghan’s approach and the way working royals handle their duties couldn’t be more stark. Take Kate, for example. She’s focusing on her “Early Years” project, doing serious work and making real change, all while battling health issues. She’s not trying to leverage her position for personal gain or Hollywood roles. She’s quietly and effectively serving. Or look at Princess Anne—steadily doing her duty for decades, without drama or demands for special treatment.

What’s fascinating about all of this is that it reveals the flaw in Meghan and Harry’s post-royal strategy. They seem to think their royal connections would automatically translate into success in entertainment. But Hollywood, for all its faults, still requires actual talent and the ability to deliver. You can’t just show up with a title and expect to land leading roles, especially in films about important historical events.

This rejection also speaks volumes about their future in Hollywood. If Tyler Perry, someone who has been supportive of them, won’t cast Meghan in a significant role, what chance does she have with other producers? This isn’t just a rejection of one role—it’s a public signal to the entire industry about where Meghan stands in the Hollywood hierarchy.

And let’s face it: Meghan and Harry are learning the hard way that Hollywood is a much tougher nut to crack than they imagined. You can’t just trade on royal connections and expect to be handed serious acting roles or have your vanity projects succeed. This industry requires talent, skills, and the ability to deliver what audiences want to see.

Footy fanatic Prince George joined his dad Prince William on the pitch for the first time to play in a ­traditional pre-Christmas match.

The pair played in the same team during the annual game between Sandringham estate workers and nearby villagers, as the Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6, rallied at the sidelines to cheer them on.

According to an insider, William almost scored a goal as George ran around the pitch energetically in what onlookers called “healthy father-and-son bonding time”, The Sun reports.

The source added: “There were other children playing and it was all good fun and light-hearted. It is nice that they have returned to take part in the traditional game as they haven’t done so for years. But it was interesting to see that Harry has now been substituted for Prince George.”

William, 42, has previously taken George, 11, to Villa Park and was joined by the young prince to cheer on England at Wembley. The duo were snapped jumping up and cheering players on when Cole Palmer scored for England, who won 2-1 against Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin in July.

The Princess of Wales, 42, stunned in a deep purple polo neck, lilac waistcoat, beige trousers and a green cap as she watched William and George from the side of the pitch. She wore her hair in a stylish plait and held a pair of black leather gloves, with Prince Louis, 6, and Princess Charlotte, 9, standing beside her to show their support.

William said on the That Peter Crouch Podcast in 2020 that George is free to support whichever team he likes. He said: “I’m trying not to persuade him to be a Villa fan, I’m letting him choose his own way. It’s about finding what fits for him.”