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  • Strictly faces fresh fix accusations after judges name celebrity a favourite to lift the Glitterball trophy as fans declare it’s ‘unfair’ and ‘too early’

    Strictly faces fresh fix accusations after judges name celebrity a favourite to lift the Glitterball trophy as fans declare it’s ‘unfair’ and ‘too early’

    Strictly Come Dancing has been hit by another wave of fix accusations after the judges singled out one contestant as a favourite to win the show, only three weeks in.

    Jamie Borthwick was lauded by the judging panel on Saturday night, after his performance of the Quickstep with his pro partner Michelle Tsiakkas to I’m Still Standing.

    The EastEnders star, 30, dressed up as the iconic Elton John, complete with feather boa and rhinestone covered glasses, scoring an impressive 30 points.

    However, viewers criticised the judges for predicting that Jamie would lift the Glitterball trophy, while others declared it was ‘unfair’ that the actor got to do the Quickstep, after he won the Strictly Christmas special with the same dance.

    After his energetic routine, the judges were full of praise fro Jamie and Michelle, with Anton Du Beke gushing: ‘You know you really are a super super dancer.

    Strictly Come Dancing has been hit by another wave of fix accusations after the judges singled out one contestant as a favourite to win the show, only three weeks in
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    Strictly Come Dancing has been hit by another wave of fix accusations after the judges singled out one contestant as a favourite to win the show, only three weeks in

    Jamie Borthwick was lauded by the judging panel on Saturday night, after his performance of the Quickstep with his pro partner Michelle Tsiakkas to I'm Still Standing
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    Jamie Borthwick was lauded by the judging panel on Saturday night, after his performance of the Quickstep with his pro partner Michelle Tsiakkas to I’m Still Standing

    However, viewers criticised the judges for predicting that Jamie would lift the Glitterball trophy, while others declared it was 'unfair' that the actor got to do the Quickstep, after he won the Strictly Christmas special with the same dance (pictured)
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    However, viewers criticised the judges for predicting that Jamie would lift the Glitterball trophy, while others declared it was ‘unfair’ that the actor got to do the Quickstep, after he won the Strictly Christmas special with the same dance (pictured)

    ‘I think you could be one of the favourites to lift the trophy to be quite honest with you. I think you are an exceptional talent.’

    Echoing the sentiment, Motsi Mabuse agreed: ‘Yes, Anton, I think the Glitterball is quite close to you!’

    And host Tess Daly drew attention to the stellar comment after the feedback, saying: ‘Thank you judges. Two out of four mentioned the Glitterball… that’s big news!’

    For his part, Jamie modestly declared he had long journey ahead to get to the final and said: ‘It’s a bit too early to be mentioning the Glitterball, but nonetheless, I appreciate everything they say.’

    And viewers at home agreed with him, taking to social media to say: ‘too early for glitterball talk. Shish judges.’

    ‘Nah I can’t see Jamie lifting the glitterball. A lot of incredible dancers this year. Don’t even think he’ll reach the final.’

    ‘It’s only Week 3 and the judges already think Jamie is going to win; telling poor jamie he’s going to win the glitter ball when we all know it’s being rigged for chris is a choice…’

    While others were annoyed that Jamie had received high praise for doing the Quickstep, which was the dance that he had performed on the Christmas Special last year.

    After his energetic routine, the judges were full of praise fro Jamie and Michelle, with Anton Du Beke (pictured) gushing: 'You know you really are a super super dancer. I think you could be one of the favourites to lift the trophy to be quite honest with you'
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    After his energetic routine, the judges were full of praise fro Jamie and Michelle, with Anton Du Beke (pictured) gushing: ‘You know you really are a super super dancer. I think you could be one of the favourites to lift the trophy to be quite honest with you’

    Echoing the sentiment, Motsi Mabuse (pictured) agreed: 'Yes, Anton, I think the Glitterball is quite close to you!'
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    Echoing the sentiment, Motsi Mabuse (pictured) agreed: ‘Yes, Anton, I think the Glitterball is quite close to you!’

    For his part, Jamie modestly declared he had long journey ahead to get to the final and said: 'It¿s a bit too early to be mentioning the Glitterball, but nonetheless, I appreciate everything they say'
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    For his part, Jamie modestly declared he had long journey ahead to get to the final and said: ‘It’s a bit too early to be mentioning the Glitterball, but nonetheless, I appreciate everything they say’

    And viewers at home agreed with him, taking to social media to say: 'too early for glitterball talk. Shish judges'

    And viewers at home agreed with him, taking to social media to say: ‘too early for glitterball talk. Shish judges’

    Jamie Borthwick reveals feeling nervous ahead of Strictly performance

    The soap star had been partnered with Nancy Xu for the festive episode, and danced the Quickstep to Merry Christmas Everyone.

    They scored perfect 10s from all four of the judges and beat out fellow contestants Dan Snow, Sally Nugent, Danny Cipriani, Tillie Amartey and Keisha Buchanan to be crowned the winners.

    Fans complained that it was ‘unfair’ he got to do the dance style again, writing: ‘jamie doing a quickstep when he did a quickstep in the christmas show and won feels unfair… this should’ve been one of the dances he never got to do.’

    ‘The judges mentioning the Glitterball after Jamie’s Quickstep ( the dance that won him the Xmas special last year) If that’s not a coincidence I don’t know what is’.

    ‘When Jamie won the the Christmas special it was with a Quickstep, so I’m a bit surprised they have given him the dance this series, seems a bit unfair?!

    It comes after the second contestant to be eliminated from the competition was leaked online, ahead of the results show.

    The BBC competition is set to air the prerecorded results on Sunday night, revealing which two couples received the least votes and ended up in the dance off.

    However, a notorious mole on the show has already revealed the bottom two and leaked which celebrity will be sent packing.

    While others were annoyed that Jamie had received high praise for doing the Quickstep, which was the dance that he performed on the Christmas Special last year with Nancy Xu
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    While others were annoyed that Jamie had received high praise for doing the Quickstep, which was the dance that he performed on the Christmas Special last year with Nancy Xu

    They scored perfect 10s from all four of the judges and were crowned the winners, therefore fans complained that it was 'unfair' he got to do the dance style again
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    They scored perfect 10s from all four of the judges and were crowned the winners, therefore fans complained that it was ‘unfair’ he got to do the dance style again

    After seeing the spoiler, fans admitted that it was ‘the right people in the dance off’ and that it was the right time for the eliminated couple to go home.

    Taking to Twitter to react to the news, they shared: ‘i would like to thank the british public for getting it right for once’.

    ‘Just found out which couple have left and i predicted it would be these two in the dance off. #StrictlySpoiler; Absolutely the right result this week.’

    ‘The correct result. It was the correct time for this couple to go home sadly. #Strictly; So happy with that result so glad they are gone’.

    ‘Ouffff okay thank god, I couldn’t take another week of that pairing; For once the right two couples in the dance off and no shocks as in previous Movie week shows.’

    ‘Finally the right people in the dance off!’; OH THANK GOD. My bottom two predicted and the absolute right one saved. Can we have Tom back now?’

    Saturday night saw the contestants take to the dance floor in an array of impressive costumes for the first themed week of this year’s competition series.

    And not wanting to miss out on the fun, the judges also all dressed up as famous movie characters.

    EastEnders actor and Strictly’s Jamie Borthwick talks about the show

    It comes after the second contestant to be eliminated from the competition was leaked online, ahead of the pre-recorded results show airing on Sunday night
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    It comes after the second contestant to be eliminated from the competition was leaked online, ahead of the pre-recorded results show airing on Sunday night

    Strictly Come Dancing fans have praised the public for voting for 'the correct result', after the second contestant to be eliminated was leaked online
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    However, a notorious mole on the show has already revealed the bottom two and leaked which celebrity will be sent packing


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    After seeing the spoiler, fans admitted that it was 'the right people in the dance off' and that it was the right time for the eliminated couple to go home

    After seeing the spoiler, fans admitted that it was ‘the right people in the dance off’ and that it was the right time for the eliminated couple to go home

    Craig Revel Horwood channelled Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean, while Motsi was the spitting image of Whitney Houston in The Bodyguard.

    Anton received praised after he transformed into Ben Stiller ‘s iconic Zoolander character from the 2001 film.

    And there was a late arrival in the studio after as head judge Shirley Ballas flew into the studios from the rafters.

    Dressed as the magical nanny Mary Poppins, the dance champion looked every bit the part that won Dame Julie Andrews an Oscar as as she descended onto the stage to Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.

    Nick Knowles and his partner Luba Mushtuk have been given a free pass through to week four of the competition after he pulled out of Movie Week due to an injury.

    But other contestants wowed the judges as they assumed characters from famous films such as Disney classic The Little Mermaid and Margot Robbie‘s 2023 smash Barbie.

    Craig Revel Horwood channelled Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean

    While Motsi Mabuse was the spitting image of Whitney Houston in The Bodyguard.

    Craig Revel Horwood channelled Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean, while Motsi Mabuse was the spitting image of Whitney Houston in The Bodyguard

    However, a notorious mole on the show has already revealed the bottom two and leaked which celebrity will be sent packing
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    Anton Du Beke received praised after he transformed into Ben Stiller ‘s iconic Zoolander character from the 2001 film

    And there was a late arrival in the studio after as head judge Shirley Ballas flew into the studios from the rafters to Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, dressed as the magical nanny Mary Poppins
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    And there was a late arrival in the studio after as head judge Shirley Ballas flew into the studios from the rafters to Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, dressed as the magical nanny Mary Poppins

    While viewers were left in tears as Sarah Hadland performed a tribute to Maggie Smith, after the actress passed away at the age of 89 last week
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    While viewers were left in tears as Sarah Hadland performed a tribute to Maggie Smith, after the actress passed away at the age of 89 last week

    While viewers were left in tears as Sarah Hadland performed a tribute to Maggie Smith, after the actress passed away at the age of 89 last week.

    The acting legend famously starred as Minerva McGonagall in seven of the eight Harry Potter films, and received a flood of tributes from celebrities and fans mourning her heartbreaking loss.

    During Strictly’s Movie Week, Sarah and her pro dance partner Vito Coppola performed a touching Viennese Waltz to Hedwig’s Theme from Harry Potter.

    The judges praised her performance, with Motsi saying: ‘highlight of the night so far, nostalgic and brilliant’, while fans took to social media to admit the dance made them emotional.

  • Strictly Come Dancing’s Toyah Willcox becomes second star to waltz away as singer loses tense dance-off to footballer Paul Merson after her husband furiously booed the judges

    Strictly Come Dancing’s Toyah Willcox becomes second star to waltz away as singer loses tense dance-off to footballer Paul Merson after her husband furiously booed the judges

    Strictly Come Dancing’s Toyah Willcox has become the second star to leave the show after she landed in the bottom for a second week on Sunday – following her husband Robert Fripp booing the judges.

    The 80s singer, 66, and partner Neil Jones, 42, were eliminated from the competition after losing the dance off to footballer Paul Merson and partner Karen Hauer following Movie Week.

    Following the judge’s decision Toyah gushed over ‘phenomenal’ Neil and declared her experience on the show ‘the best two months of my life!.

    Both couples performed their routines again, with Toyah and Neil taking to the floor with their Samba to Poor Unfortunate Souls from Little Mermaid, after scoring just  15 out 40 and landing at the bottom of Saturday’s leaderboard.

    Meanwhile Paul and Karen performed their Cha Cha to The Magnificent Seven from The Magnificent Seven, which saw them initially score 19.

    Strictly's Toyah Willcox and Neil Jones (L) has become the second star to leave the show after she lost the dance off to footballer Paul Merson and partner Karen Hauer (R) on Sunday
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    Strictly’s Toyah Willcox and Neil Jones (L) has become the second star to leave the show after she lost the dance off to footballer Paul Merson and partner Karen Hauer (R) on Sunday

    Following the judge's decision Toyah gushed over 'phenomenal' Neil and declared her experience on the show 'the best two months of my life! (pictured with host Tess Daly)
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    Following the judge’s decision Toyah gushed over ‘phenomenal’ Neil and declared her experience on the show ‘the best two months of my life! (pictured with host Tess Daly)

    During their first performance on Saturday judge Craig ordered Toyah's husband, musician Robert Fripp who's she's been married to since 1986, to 'sit down'  as he booed the panel's negative comments
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    During their first performance on Saturday judge Craig ordered Toyah’s husband, musician Robert Fripp who’s she’s been married to since 1986, to ‘sit down’  as he booed the panel’s negative comments

    After both couples danced the judges delivered their verdicts with Craig Revel HorwoodMotsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke all choosing to save Paul and Karen.

    With three votes in favour of Paul and Karen, they won the majority vote meaning Toyah and Neil would be leaving.

    Head Judge Shirley Ballas also agreed with her fellow professionals and said she would have also decided to save Paul and Karen.

    Toyah told Tess Daly about her time on the show: ‘It’s been the best two months of my life, it has been fantastic. I have enjoyed every second. And you [Neil] have been phenomenal, thank you so much.’

    While Neil said: ‘[Toyah] has made me laugh so much, I have never seen someone work so hard , I’m the one asking for breaks every now and then! She just kept going, she wanted to learn so much.’

    ‘If you saw her in the hallway she’s been practicing. Everyone’s been telling me have you seen Toyah practicing, she’s brilliant and she’s what Strictly is all about, and I’ve loved every moment’.

    Going on to gush about Neil, Toyah confessed: ‘It was immediate, it had to be Neil. I felt so comfortable and safe. You’re a great teacher, you’re a great friend as well. You’ve just given me a new zest for life, that’s the most valuable thing I’ve come away with.’

    During their first performance  on Saturday judge Craig ordered Toyah‘s husband, musician Robert who’s she’s been married to since 1986,  to ‘sit down’.

    After both couples danced the judges delivered their verdicts with Craig Revel Horwood , Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke all choosing to save Paul and Karen
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    After both couples danced the judges delivered their verdicts with Craig Revel Horwood , Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke all choosing to save Paul and Karen

    With three votes in favour of Paul and Karen, they won the majority vote meaning Toyah and Neil would be leaving
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    With three votes in favour of Paul and Karen, they won the majority vote meaning Toyah and Neil would be leaving

    Toyah told Tess Daly about her time on the show: 'It's been the best two months of my life, it has been fantastic. I have enjoyed every second. And you [Neil] have been phenomenal, thank you so much.' (pictured performing on Saturday)
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    Toyah told Tess Daly about her time on the show: ‘It’s been the best two months of my life, it has been fantastic. I have enjoyed every second. And you [Neil] have been phenomenal, thank you so much.’ (pictured performing on Saturday)

    During their first performance on Saturday jugde Craig  (pictured) ordered Toyah 's husband, musician Robert who's she's been married to since 1986, to 'sit down'
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    During their first performance on Saturday jugde Craig  (pictured) ordered Toyah ‘s husband, musician Robert who’s she’s been married to since 1986, to ‘sit down’

    Robert stood up and started to boo Craig following his negative comments, while he hit back and told Robert to sit down with a smile on his face
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    Robert stood up and started to boo Craig following his negative comments, while he hit back and told Robert to sit down with a smile on his face

    Strictly’s Craig tells Toyah’s husband to ‘sit down’ after he boos

    Strictly Come Dancing leaderboard:  Movie Week 3

    1. Tasha Ghouri and Aljaž Škorjanec – 34

    2. Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola – 33

    3. Shayne Ward and Nancy Xu – 33

    4. Punam Krishan and Gorka Márquez – 33

    5. JB Gill and Amy Dowden MBE – 32

    6. Wynne Evans and Katya Jones –  30

    7. Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell – 30

    8. Jamie Borthwick and Michelle Tsiakkas – 30

    9. Sam Quek MBE and Nikita Kuzmin – 30

    10. Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe – 28

    11. Pete Wicks and Jowita Przystał – 26

    12. Paul Merson and Karen Hauer  – 19

    13. Toyah Willcox and Neil Jones – 15

    Robert proudly sat in the audience during movie week to watch Toyah dance but after the performance, Craig told the pair it was ‘all a bit stuck in the mud, ploddy and floppy.’

    Robert stood up and started to boo Craig, while he hit back and told Robert to sit down with a smile on his face.

    It came one week after viewers were left furious after the judges chose to save Toyah over Tom Dean, who along with partner Nadiya Bychkova, became the first evictee of the series.

    Tom was given the boot after the judges  pointed out his lack of timing, despite Toyah and partner Neil being at the bottom of the leaderboard and being bookies favourite for the chop.

    Taking to X, fans struggled to understand the decision branding it ‘bizarre’ and claimed the Olympic legend had been ‘robbed’.

    Writing: ‘Tom did NOT deserve to go. So gutted for him!’: ‘I’m shook why would they vote for Toyah?’: ‘Ridiculous’: ‘I don’t understand the decision at all, justice for Tom’: ‘Fumin’: ‘Why Shirley? WHY?’.

    More said: ‘That Strictly Come Dancing result, ridiculous’: ‘No, no, no no… shook that Tom has gone! Wrong decision in my opinion!’: ‘What a bizarre and incorrect dance off result’: ‘Timing and clarity? How about some actual steps that are required in the dance? There was no Jive [in Toyah’s routine]. Tom was robbed’.

    Both couples performed their routines again; Tom and Nadiya took on their Cha Cha to Boogie Wonderland by Earth, Wind & Fire then Toyah and Neil performed their Jive to Nutbush City Limits by Ike & Tina Turner
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    It came one week after viewers were left furious after the judges chose to save Toyah over Tom Dean , who along with partner Nadiya Bychkova (pictured left) became the first evictee of the series

    It came despite Toyah and partner Neil Jones being at the bottom of the leaderboard and being bookies favourite for the chop
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    It came despite Toyah and partner Neil Jones being at the bottom of the leaderboard and being bookies favourite for the chop


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    Taking to X, fans struggled to understand the decision branding it 'bizarre' and claimed the Olympic legend had been 'robbed'
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    Taking to X, fans struggled to understand the decision branding it ‘bizarre’ and claimed the Olympic legend had been ‘robbed’

    With the competition fully underway the first few weeks of Strictly have had no shortage of drama and surprises.

    Nick Knowles and his partner Luba Mushtuk have been given a free pass through to week four of the competition after he pulled out of Movie Week due to an injury.

    The DIY SOS star, 62, will miss out on performing his Charleston to Rain on the Roof from Paddington 2 after it was revealed on Friday he fell and injured his knee during rehearsals.

    He was seen leaving his Berkshire home on crutches alongside his fiancée Katie Dadzie as he appeared to grimace through the pain.

    His latest injury comes just a week after his future on the show was thrown into doubt due to a shoulder problem after he attempted to change a tyre on his car.

    Fans of the show have been left fuming at the decision to let Nick go straight through to week four as they branded it ‘unfair’.

    Elsewhere in Saturday's show viewers were left feeling emotional after watching Sarah Hadland 's Maggie Smith tribute
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    Elsewhere in Saturday’s show viewers were left feeling emotional after watching Sarah Hadland ‘s Maggie Smith tribute

    It was revealed that the actress, who starred as Minerva McGonagall in seven of the eight Harry Potter films, passed away inside a hospital - and prompted a flood of tributes as celebrities and fans mourned the heartbreaking loss
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    It was revealed that the actress, who starred as Minerva McGonagall in seven of the eight Harry Potter films, passed away inside a hospital – and prompted a flood of tributes as celebrities and fans mourned the heartbreaking loss

    During Strictly's Movie Week, Sarah and her pro dance partner Vito Coppola performed a touching Viennese Waltz to Hedwig's Theme from Harry Potter
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    During Strictly’s Movie Week, Sarah and her pro dance partner Vito Coppola performed a touching Viennese Waltz to Hedwig’s Theme from Harry Potter

    The judges praised her performance, with Motsi saying: 'highlight of the night so far, nostalgic and brilliant'
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    The judges praised her performance, with Motsi saying: ‘highlight of the night so far, nostalgic and brilliant’

    Miranda Hart ‘moved’ by Sarah Hadland tribute to Maggie Smith

    Elsewhere in Saturday’s show viewers were left feeling emotional after watching Sarah Hadland‘s Maggie Smith tribute.

    It was revealed that the actress, who starred as Minerva McGonagall in seven of the eight Harry Potter films, passed away inside a hospital – and prompted a flood of tributes as celebrities and fans mourned the heartbreaking loss.

    During Strictly’s Movie Week, Sarah and her pro dance partner Vito Coppola performed a touching Viennese Waltz to Hedwig’s Theme from Harry Potter.

    The judges praised her performance, with Motsi saying: ‘highlight of the night so far, nostalgic and brilliant’

    BBC viewers also felt moved by the tribute, with one penning: ‘As a huge Harry Pottter fan who is heartbroken over Maggie’s death, this made me cry’;

    ‘Beautiful tribute to Maggie Smith’; ‘Maggie would’ve loved it’;

    ‘That was a beautiful tribute to Maggie, I hope Sarah and Vito are proud of themselves’

  • Princess Diana’s dresser Zandra Rhodes, 83, says the late royal got a ‘raw deal’ and was ‘not happy’ because she didn’t have love in her life

    Princess Diana’s dresser Zandra Rhodes, 83, says the late royal got a ‘raw deal’ and was ‘not happy’ because she didn’t have love in her life

    Dame Zandra Rhodes, the dresser of Diana, Princess of Wales, has claimed that the royal got a ‘raw deal’.

    British fashion designer, Zandra, 83, who is based in Bermondsey, south London, is famous for her bold designs and equally daring electric pink hair.

    Her designs are often sported by the rich and famous, including Diana Ross and Nicole Richies.

    But it was Princess Diana’s support that really helped raise Zandra’s profile, cementing her status as one of Britain’s greatest designers.

    In conversation with The Times, Zandra shared a glimpse into her relationship with the royal, describing her as warm’, despite having a ‘raw deal’.

    British fashion designer Zandra Rhodes said Princess Diana got a 'raw deal' in life (seen together in 1997)
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    British fashion designer Zandra Rhodes said Princess Diana got a ‘raw deal’ in life (seen together in 1997)

    ‘You can have all the riches in the world, but if you don’t have love, or don’t feel loved, you have very little,’ Zandra added. 

    Her working relationship with Diana began in 1981 when the royal came into her London boutique with her friend (and later wife of Prince Andrew) Sarah Ferguson.  The pair browsed the shop like any other customers – despite Diana’s recent engagement to the then-Prince of Wales.

    After the two friends perused the racks, Zandra received an unexpected call – it came from British Vogue, which was asking her to submit a design for Diana’s royal wedding dress.

    While Zandra’s black corset sketch never became the wedding royal dress, it did end up in the possession of perhaps the next most famous Diana – Diana Ross.

    And it was not the end of the road for the Princess and Zandra – the pair went on to work together five times in total.

    In 1986, Diana returned to Zandra’s shop and picked out a black dress to be remade in pink. The garment became one of the statement pieces worn by Diana during an official visit to Japan that same year.

    Zandra recalled the experience of working with Diana, saying: ‘You get let into the palace with this dress over your arm and you do a curtsy, and you bump into the children’s toys.’

    She continued: ‘Happy wasn’t a word I would have associated with her, but she was very warm.

    Diana is photographed in one of Zandra Rhode's designs in July, 1987 at Charleston Manor, Seaford. It is the same dress that became a statement piece of her official visit to Japan a year prior
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    Diana is photographed in one of Zandra Rhode’s designs in July, 1987 at Charleston Manor, Seaford. It is the same dress that became a statement piece of her official visit to Japan a year prior

    Diana first visited Zandra Rhode's London boutique in 1981 with Sarah Ferguson (Zandra is seen in 2019)
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    Diana first visited Zandra Rhode’s London boutique in 1981 with Sarah Ferguson (Zandra is seen in 2019)

    ‘Diana got a raw deal. You can have all the riches in the world, but if you don’t have love, or don’t feel loved, you have very little.’

    While she has experienced enormous success in her career, it hasn’t all been plain sailing for the designer, who opened her first shop in London in 1967 and is renowned for her imaginative use of colour and vivid prints.

    The fashion and textile designer has been open about her health struggles, which started during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Zandra had just begun a yoga session in her flat with her best friend, artist Andrew Logan when she realised something was amiss.

    ‘We were lying there, on our little lilac mats, and my stomach felt full,’ she told the Daily Mail in 2021. ‘I thought, “It can’t be full — I haven’t eaten anything”.’

    She went to her doctor, and then for tests, which revealed a tumour. Three months of chemotherapy, then immunotherapy followed, all during the first lockdown.

    ‘Right at the beginning… they said I’d probably got six months to live. I said, “What?!”, she shrieked recalling her shock. ‘I said, “I’ve got lots of projects coming up. I’ve got to last longer than that!”.

    The British designer (seen in 2020) has recently released her fifth book - Iconic: My Life in Fashion in 50 Objects
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    The British designer (seen in 2020) has recently released her fifth book – Iconic: My Life in Fashion in 50 Objects

    ‘And then I had my treatment and they said I’d probably got at least two years. That gives me time to get myself together and get things done.’

    ‘What I don’t understand is why it didn’t worry me. I just had to pull myself together. The amount of work I’ve got to get through!

    ‘I’ve got 100 chests of clothes because I never sold my original designs so we’ve been cataloguing and repairing them.’

    She added: ‘I’m consolidating my legacy. If I hadn’t got work, I wouldn’t have pulled through. Work keeps driving me forward. You have to get all the tasks done in time. Because of the lockdown, you weren’t allowed to have anyone with you at the clinic… I just got in an Uber and went.’

    Despite the doctor’s initial prediction, Zandra has recently released her fifth book – Iconic: My Life in Fashion in 50 Objects.

  • Revealed at last: Princess Diana’s most discreet confidant who she affectionately nicknamed ‘Collie’

    Revealed at last: Princess Diana’s most discreet confidant who she affectionately nicknamed ‘Collie’

    After Princess Diana‘s tragic death, many have chronicled her life in works of fact and fiction.

    But none has revealed the identity of one of her closest confidantes, Violet Collison, whom she affectionately called ‘Collie’.

    ‘A number of times she was asked to contribute to various books, and she just flatly refused,’ a relative of Collie tells me.

    As head housekeeper to Diana’s parents at Park House on the Sandringham estate, Collie had been a significant figure in Diana’s formative years.

    One of Princess Diana's closest confidantes was Violet Collison, whom she affectionately called 'Collie'
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    One of Princess Diana’s closest confidantes was Violet Collison, whom she affectionately called ‘Collie’

    In her letter dated December 13 1984, Diana thanks 'Collie' for Christmas presents she gave to her sons William and Harry
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    Pictured: An envelope addressed to ‘Mrs V Collinson’ at 5 Bradfield Close, North Walsham in Norfolk, in December 1984

    In her letter dated December 13 1984, Diana thanks Collie for Christmas presents bought for her sons Prince William and Harry
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    In her letter dated December 13 1984, Diana thanks Collie for Christmas presents bought for her sons Prince William and Harry

    As head housekeeper to Diana¿s parents at Park House on the Sandringham estate, Collie had been a significant figure in Diana¿s formative years
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    As head housekeeper to Diana’s parents at Park House on the Sandringham estate, Collie had been a significant figure in Diana’s formative years

    The bond remained strong until the fatal car accident that took Diana’s life in 1997.

    Only now, more than a decade since Collie’s death in 2013, is her relationship with the princess coming to light, as unseen letters go up for auction at Sworders at the end of this month.

    ‘Collie and Diana had this relationship until she died that goes over and beyond what a housekeeper would normally experience,’ the relative tells me.

    Diana’s difficult relationship with her mother is well-documented. There were periods when they would not be in contact, while Collie was a constant.

    ‘When Diana and Charles were staying at Sandringham,’ the family member explains, Diana ‘used to try and escape — I think one of her boltholes was a little two-bedroom bungalow in a village two miles down the road [Collie’s home]’.

    Diana's bond with Collie would remain strong until the car crash that took her life in 1997
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    While Diana had a difficult relationship with her mother, Collie remained a constant contact
    +7

    While Diana had a difficult relationship with her mother, Collie remained a constant contact

    Diana with her son, Prince William. The Princess's visits to Collie's home were kept secret and she would go without any security staff
    +7

    Diana with her son, Prince William. The Princess’s visits to Collie’s home were kept secret and she would go without any security staff

    These visits were kept secret, and Diana would go without any security staff.

    In retirement, Collie worked part-time at the Sandringham ticket office.

    One day royal biographer Penny Junor came snooping, the family member reveals.

    ‘When Penny asked at the ticket office if anyone knew a ‘Collie’, the lady working behind the counter said no . . . that person was Collie.’

  • Unreleased photos of Victoria and David Beckham’s wedding at their £11.5 million mansion have emerged (video)

    Unreleased photos of Victoria and David Beckham’s wedding at their £11.5 million mansion have emerged (video)

    Victoria and David Beckham have squeezed back into their iconic purple Antonio Berardi second wedding outfits to mark their 25th anniversary.

    The snaps immediately transported fans back to their lavish 1999 nuptials at Luttrellstown Castle in Dublin, but their second wedding is not as widely remembered.

    The former Spice Girls star and the England footballer are one of many celebrity couples who have reinforced their commitment to one another by hosting a second wedding.

    See everything you need to know about the Beckhams’ intimate ceremony at their Hertfordshire home, seven years after they officially tied the knot.

    Home wedding

    In 2006, David was based in Madrid, Spain amid his stint with Real Madrid.

    He travelled back to their £11.5 million eccentric family home, ‘Beckingham Palace’ for a secret wedding ceremony he organised to surprise his wife.

    No photos have been released, but their former home – which they sold for £11.5 million in 2014 to multi-millionaire, Neil Utley – boasted seven bedrooms, a recording studio, a snooker room, a gym, a maze, a swimming pool and 24 acres of land. Perhaps most important was the private woodland chapel, which played host to their low-key vow renewal.

    “We get off the plane and we’re met by the same car that drove us on our wedding day. We drive to our house in London. We had a little chapel in the garden and we got remarried with the priest that married us all those years ago,” she told Zanna Rassi as she explained the sentimental meaning behind her Suite 302 perfume launch.

    “We get on a plane and we fly to Paris where we had a 24-hour honeymoon and we stayed in Suite 302.”

    Just six people were there to witness the ceremony, including their three eldest children: Brooklyn, who was born in 1999 before their first wedding, Romeo, whom they welcomed in 2002, and Cruz, who was born in 2005. Their daughter Harper wasn’t born until 2011.

    David explained on Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs: “We have renewed our vows since [our first wedding] and it was a lot more private, there were about six people there in our house.”

    The Daily Mirror reported it was very “non-showbiz,” in stark contrast to their lavish first wedding, which featured thrones for the newlyweds and a sword to cut their Robin Hood-themed cake.

    Both Victoria and David got matching tattoos of Roman numerals to mark the date 8 May 2006, alongside the Latin phrase ‘De Integro’ meaning ‘Again from the start.’

    Second wedding outfits

    Although neither David nor Victoria has lifted the lid on what they wore the second time around, the sports star supposedly chose a white dress for VB ahead of the ceremony.

    Queen Victoria set the tradition for brides to wear white on their wedding day back in 1840, and it has continued to the current day.

    Fashion designer Victoria abided by that rule in 1999 with their Vera Wang satin ballgown with a corseted top and full skirt, which she teamed with a diamond tiara by Slim Barrett and a crucifix necklace gifted by David.

    However, she later swapped bridal white for bold violet at their reception – a look she recreated on her big day with David 25 years later. Posing in her strapless gown, which featured a crimson lining, lavender floral detailing and a thigh-high leg split, she wrote: “Yep, still got it! Can’t believe it’s been 25 years and they still fit.”

    David previously shared his verdict about their unconventional outfits.

    After comparing his purple outfit to Dumb & Dumber, David joked on Desert Island Discs: “Victoria’s was pretty nice. Mine, I’m like, ‘What was I thinking?’

    “I even had a top hat in purple.”

  • David Beckham’s sister’s m0cking j0ke about his “wandering eye” turned out to be true when a fifth person claimed to be his lover (video)

    David Beckham’s sister’s m0cking j0ke about his “wandering eye” turned out to be true when a fifth person claimed to be his lover (video)

    David Beckham has once again caused a distraction among his fans after sharing a sweet throwback family snap to mark his mum’s birthday. 

    The former footballer took to social media to publicly pay tribute to his mother Sandra Beckham on her special day.

    He shared a picture of the birthday girl, who turned 74 on Wednesday (June 16), taken back when he was just a youngster.

    It showed Sandra holding onto her youngest child, Joanne, while eldest Lynne cuddled up to her baby sister and David rested himself alongside his mum.

    “Happy Birthday Mum love you so much x the sun is shining and you deserve to have the best day [red heart emoji],”

    David, 49, began in the caption of his post in view of his 88 million followers.

    He then went on to joke about his sibling rivalry, adding: “We love u so much [red heart emoji] Lots of love your favourite child [laughing emoji],” before he humorously tagged his sisters in the post.

    David’s wife Victoria was quick to respond to the post, writing: “Happy birthday Sandra!! We love u.” While Joanne responded to David’s claim, and seemingly confirmed he was right, posting: “Haha you beat me to it @davidbeckham. Love you mum even if David’s your favourite @sandra_beckham49.” But Sandra herself was happy with all the love, commenting: “Ahh thank you love you all too.”

    And David’s fans and followers were also rushing to share their birthday wishes for Sandra while also being distracted by her resemblance to the late Princess Diana.

    @lindalievaart said: “Your mom looks a bit Lady Di.” @julesmegan29 replied: “Omg I thought the same. She really does look like Princess Di.” @oiro16 commented: “Omg I actually thought it was her and found the first line of the caption odd!!” @beckyfarn added: “Thought your mum was Princess Di for a second.”

    It comes after David quashed rumours of a potential Spice Girls reunion. The former Manchester United and England star dismissed growing speculation that the iconic Nineties girl group, which included his wife Victoria famously known as Posh Spice, were set to reunite for another tour.

    The rumours came following their surprise performance at Victoria’s 50th birthday party back in April. When asked by Variety about the possibility of them hitting the stage together once again, David said: “Unfortunately, that’s not happening.”

    Referring to the impromptu Spice Girls’ gig at Victoria’s birthday celebration, he added: “Victoria was so pleased to see the girls, and it was a massive part of her life, the girls, but obviously, all the girls have got their own things going on.”

  • ​​Princess Anne’s brutal prediction about Camilla’s future as Queen

    ​​Princess Anne’s brutal prediction about Camilla’s future as Queen

    With Princess Anne celebrating her 74th birthday today, there’s no doubt her brother King Charles and sister-in-law Queen Camilla will offer their birthday wishes – but it appears Anne’s warm bond with Camilla was actually once frosty

    Ever since he took to the throne, King Charles has been able to count on the loyal support of his little sister Princess Anne.

    The Princess Royal has continued to keep up her busy schedule of royal engagements with her brother as monarch – and he will no doubt be sending her all his best wishes today as she turns 74. However, her relationship with is wife, Queen Camilla, is said to have been less smooth sailing over the years.

    And tensions between the two women once led to Anne making a brutal prediction about Camilla’s future in the Royal Family, according to a royal expert. Author Angela Levin made the claims in her book, titled ‘Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall: From Outcast to Future Queen Consort that the relationship between the two women took a long time to warm up.

    Princess Anne, King Charles and Queen Camilla sit in the audience of the Braemer Highland Gathering.
    Anne once made a brutal prediction about Camilla’s future as Queen 
    Image:
    Getty Images)
    She wrote: “Like many people who didn’t know Anne well, Camilla found her frosty demeanour difficult and somewhat unnerving to cope with [at first]”.

    Levin also claims that “Anne was, for many years, opposed to the idea of Camilla being granted the title of Queen Consort” and even once made the brutal prediction that “Camilla will never be a true queen”.

    These days, relations are said to have improved between the two women as “time has proven to be a healer”, with Anne’s opinion of Camilla becoming more positive over the years.

    Camilla – who was crowned Queen alongside her husband Charles on 6 May at Westminster Abbey – was previously married to Andrew Parker-Bowles, with whom she shares two children: Tom Parker-Bowles, 48, and Laura Lopes, 45.

    Anne is said to have dated Andrew herself back in the 1970s, when she was a young woman. As he is a Roman Catholic, she would have been unable to marry him as a member of the Royal Family – because the monarch is the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, Levin claims it would have been “out of the question”

    The author claims that this romantic history added a tricky dimension to Camilla and Anne’s relationship: “Her relationship with Camilla was particularly awkward as they had both been involved with Andrew Parker Bowles”, she wrote.

    Anne kept her distance from Camilla when she first entered the royal fold officially, “as much as possible” the biographer claims, adding that “Princess Anne reportedly initially gave Camilla the cold shoulder. It was little consolation that the Princess Royal had also had a frosty relationship with Diana, for whom she had no time before she married Charles, and with Sarah, Duchess of York”.

    These days, things are much warmer between Anne and Camilla, Levin claimed, writing that Camilla’s “sense of duty” eventually won Anne over: “Anne has seen for herself how hard Camilla has worked for the monarchy and her sense of duty. Gradually, she became more amenable”.

  • What Will Happen To Middleton’s Parents When She Becomes Queen?

    What Will Happen To Middleton’s Parents When She Becomes Queen?

    Royal glory or business as usual? Nobody’s quite sure what happens when your daughter becomes queen — but it appears that Carole and Michael Middleton are going to find out.

    What will happen to Catherine’s parent if she eventually becomes Queen? The extent of their contribution and investment in their daughter’s life cannot be trivialized, which begs the question: will they be honored if she ascends to the throne? With endless controversy and speculation surrounding Middleton’s middle-class background, the royal family’s strict rules present a potential obstacle to such recognition. Catherine is married to the Prince and holds the title of the Princess of Wales, and the prospect of becoming queen now appears feasible. So, what will become of her parents? What will be their fate? Will they take up any formal royal titles or duties or continue to be humiliated because of their background? Join us as we explore this complex and intriguing situation in detail.

     

    As the Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine Middleton, inches closer to becoming Queen Consort, a fascinating question emerges: What Will Happen To Middleton’s Parents When She Becomes Queen? Traditionally, the conferring of titles has been reserved for members of the royal family or those who have rendered exceptional service to the monarchy. Despite the Middleton’s undeniable support for their daughter and Services to the crown behind the scenes. This remains a subject of speculation among royal fans. Join us as we reveal the answer to this question and put to rest the speculations.

    Everyone loves a classic fairytale story, and that’s one of the reasons why Catherine Middleton, the Princess of Wales, has received so much love from around the world. Catherine’s journey from a middle class girl to the future queen consort has captured the world’s attention. As she prepares for her role as queen, many people wonder what will happen to her family, especially her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton. Carole and Michael have played a very big role in Catherine’s life by offering support throughout her rise to royalty. Despite their important influence, there are still questions about whether they will receive any titles or formal roles when Catherine becomes Queen. Will they finally get royal honors? Or will they remain as they are? Let’s find out!

    This Is The Reason Why Prince William Is So Close With Michael Carole MiddletonWhile Prince William might have a better relationship with his father King Charles now, that hasn’t always been the case.

    In fact, there was a time when the Prince of Wales was much closer to Kate Middleton’s parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, than to the King of England. And it seems like there was a good reason for it, too.

    This Is The Reason Why Prince William Is So Close With Michael Carole Middleton

    That’s because the Middletons managed to take Prince William under their wing while King Charles was just a little too busy for his son. At least, that’s how one royal author is putting it.

    As many royal fans know, Prince William and Kate Middleton got married in 2011, but they were dating on and off for more than a decade.

    During that time, the Prince of Wales got to know Kate’s family and grew particularly close to her parents. And for that reason alone, it seems like William is very grateful to them.

    Royal Family News – What’s Next For Prince William?

    One source close to the situation even put it this way, They took him [Prince William] under their wing from the very beginning and provided the kind of family atmosphere he had never had and probably yearned for.”

    “Lots of laughs, lots of family games and sharing of outdoor pursuits as a family. Just being there for him when his own father was far too busy and unable to provide this.”

    “This has made him very ‘family conscious’ which was exactly what King Charles wanted for him as he never had it himself.”

    And while the Middletons might have somewhat of an influence over Prince William, it’s not as strong as the one that the monarchy still has over him.

    “The royal side will always come out on top however influential your family is or has been. William is very family-minded because of this but he can’t beat the system.”

    So far Prince William himself has not made any comments about the matter, although at this point it’s doubtful that anything will be said. Drop us a line with your thoughts in our comments section below.

    In the meantime, come back right here for all the latest updates and spoilers on your favorite daytime television shows and The British Royal Family.

  • Prince William’s four-word response to Meghan’s huge announcement at Eugenie’s wedding

    Prince William’s four-word response to Meghan’s huge announcement at Eugenie’s wedding

    Prince Harry revealed what Prince William told him and Meghan Markle after they announced they were expecting Prince Archie.

    Prince William Prince Harry and Meghan Mrakle

    Prince William made one particular comment after hearing of Meghan Markle’s pregnancy (Image: Getty)

    Prince William had a four-word response to Meghan Markle’s pregnancy news, according to Prince Harry.

    The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who welcomed Prince Archie in 2019 and Princess Lilibet in 2021, may be estranged from the Royal Family now but that wasn’t always the case.

    Harry and Wiliam are said to not be on speaking terms now, following the dukes explosive claims against the Firm, but during the time when the Sussexes were expecting Archie, the two brothers were still close.

    According to Harry’s memoir, Spare, which was released last year, the Sussexes decided to share their exciting news with the rest of the royals on the same day as his cousin, Princess Eugenie’s wedding, in October 2018.

    Harry wrote about the day: “Euge was getting married, to Jack, and we were deliriously happy for her, and for ourselves, selfishly, since Jack was one of our favourite people.

    The Waleses and the Sussexes on Princess Eugenie's wedding day in 2018

    The Waleses and the Sussexes on Princess Eugenie’s wedding day in 2018 (Image: Getty)

    “Meg and I were supposed to head off on our first official foreign tour as a married couple, but we delayed the departure several days, so we could be at the wedding.

    “Also, the various gatherings connected to the wedding would give us a chance to pull aside family members one by one and tell them our good news.”

    And after they had finally found the future King and told him the news his first reaction was that “we must tell Kate”.

    Harry said: “After the drinks reception, in St George’s Hall, Meg and I pulled Willy aside. We were in a big room, suits of armour on the walls. Strange room, strange moment.

    “We whispered the news, and Willy smiled and said we must tell Kate.

    “She was across the room, talking to Pippa. I said we could do it later, but he insisted.

    “So we went and told Kate and she also gave a big smile and hearty congratulations. They both reacted exactly as I’d hoped.”

  • Breaking News: Just 20 minutes ago, King Charles officially granted a royal title to Harry, prompting cheers of support from across England—but one person is furious:…

    Breaking News: Just 20 minutes ago, King Charles officially granted a royal title to Harry, prompting cheers of support from across England—but one person is furious:…

    In a surprising and joyous turn of events, King Charles III has officially bestowed a royal title upon his younger son, Prince Harry. This announcement has ignited celebrations across the United Kingdom, with many citizens expressing their delight at the renewed connection between Harry and the royal family. The title, which is expected to enhance Harry’s role in public life, marks a significant moment for both the prince and the monarchy, as it symbolizes reconciliation and unity.

    The news broke during a royal event attended by members of the family and a crowd of enthusiastic supporters. As King Charles made the announcement, cheers erupted from the audience, with many waving flags and chanting Harry’s name. “This title represents hope and healing for our family,” the king said, beaming with pride. “I am thrilled to welcome Harry back into the fold in a more official capacity.”

    Fans of the Sussexes have taken to social media to celebrate this development, with hashtags like #WelcomeHomeHarry trending across various platforms. Many see this as a step towards mending the rift that has existed within the family since Harry and Meghan Markle decided to step back from royal duties in 2020. The move is being hailed as a sign that the royal family is open to reconciliation and that healing is possible.

    However, not everyone is pleased with this announcement. One prominent critic of the royal family, Piers Morgan, has voiced his displeasure, arguing that granting Harry a title undermines the monarchy’s integrity. In a fiery tweet, he stated, “Giving Harry a title is a slap in the face to those who respect the institution. This is a man who turned his back on the family.” Morgan’s comments have sparked debates among royal watchers, with opinions divided on whether Harry deserves this honor after stepping away from royal duties.

    Despite the mixed reactions, the overall sentiment in the UK is one of joy and celebration. Many see the title as a recognition of Harry’s commitment to charitable work and mental health advocacy, efforts that resonate deeply with the public. As he continues to work on projects close to his heart, supporters are hopeful that this title will allow him to make an even greater impact.

    As Prince Harry embraces his new role, the nation stands by him, united in their hope for a brighter future for the royal family. With King Charles leading the way, many believe that this moment could signify the beginning of a new chapter filled with unity, understanding, and shared purpose. As the applause fades, one thing remains clear: the royal family continues to evolve, and the public is eager to witness the journey ahead.