British vigilantes pose as fake journalists to target migrants in new tactics

Men who have filmed themselves slashing migrant boats are posing as accredited journalists to encourage asylum seekers to speak to them on camera

Daniel Thomas, right, and Ryan Bridge, have been offering migrants money to speak to them, with Bridge also pretending he is a journalist (Photo: Raise the Colours)

Sanya Burgess
Investigations Correspondent

December 10, 2025 6:00 am (Updated 4:04 pm)
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British vigilantes have been posing as journalists in a new tactic designed to confront Channel migrants in France.

Migrants have been shown fake press cards and offered money by members of the group, as part of their efforts to film content for their anti-migrant social media pages.

These vigilantes’ actions have escalated from raising St George’s flags on English streets to travelling to France where they have been harassing migrants and slashing small boats used in Channel crossings.

The i Paper previously revealed how the vigilantes discussed a secret plot to misdirect police and send groups of British men to join their efforts in France but were rumbled when they were overheard in the pub.

Fake journalists offering real money

A new tactic used by the men is to pose as accredited journalists. It appears they are doing this to encourage migrants they encounter in France to speak to them on camera.

In a video posted last month, the men are confronted by French police as they film a destroyed migrant boat on the beach. The officer asks whether the group have a press card. The footage suggests the men do not.

The following week, they uploaded a video of their return to France but this time one of the men is brandishing what appears to be a homemade press card printed out on white paper. Real press cards are plastic with identifying details about the journalist and a hologram printed onto a blue background.

Ryan Bridge, who is one of the leaders of the flag-raising Raise the Colours movement, is filmed holding what appears to be a DIY card out to a number of migrants.
Ryan Bridge holds what appears to be a homemade press card (Photo: Raise the Colours)
In one such video, Bridge also asks a migrant if he would be interviewed, falsely telling the man he is “from the press association”, which is similar to the name of one of the UK’s leading news agencies.

It’s unclear if Bridge is actually claiming to be from this organisation, as later in the same clip he amends his introduction to say he is from “a press association called Raise the Colours”.

Blitz spirit vigilantes out of puff

Self-styled as a citizen’s army, the group of men dub their exploits as mock military campaigns, such as “Operation Overlord” – the codename for the Allies’ invasion of occupied Europe during the Second World War, beginning on D-Day, 6 June, 1944.

Bridge, along with Daniel Thomas, an associate of far-right leader Tommy Robinson, are positioned as the two main leaders. The pair shared a photo of themselves dressed in pseudo security forces outfits and boast of purchasing new equipment for themselves using donations, including stab-proof vests.

They are now attempting to sign up large numbers of English men to take direct action against migrants in France.

Their recruitment tactics involve pumping out a high volume of videos filmed in France of their confrontations with those in the Calais camps, with one recent video capturing a vigilante asking a potential migrant: “Do you want to speak to us for money? Do you want some money? Do you want some euro?”
Ryan Bridge, left, with Daniel Thomas. Their use of Christianity to justify their actions has been criticised by the Church of England (Photo: Danny Thomas)
They film their “operations” in France, with a recent social media clip showing the vigilantes shouting abuse at migrants in a camp. It concludes with Bridge panting and out of breath having run a short distance to a waiting getaway car after a water bottle is thrown at them on camera.

The group claims more than 5,500 men signed up within 24 hours of their recruitment site going live. This is despite there not being a large amount of traction online around their chosen hashtag “#OperationOverlord”.

This hashtag reached a daily peak of around 4,800 mentions on 28 November, the day the mission was launched. This dropped to only 100 posts featuring the hashtag on 1 December, according to figures collected by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue using social media monitoring tool Brandwatch.

Bishops warn vigilantes to stop co-opting Christianity

The men also attempt to pull on support by positioning their activities as the actions of English Christians protecting the Christian faith.

Two leading bishops have spoken out in response to the group’s use of religion to justify their behaviour. They warn that “any attempt to co-opt Christianity to particular political agendas or ideologies should be viewed with deep suspicion”.

In a bid to boost sign-ups, the vigilantes have continually highlighted their Christian faith and called on other Christians to join them. Thomas refers to himself as a “warrior of faith”.

The vigilantes share images featuring Christian symbols of the cross and crucifix as well as pictures suggesting they are religious soldiers.

“Christianity is at the forefront of everything we do,” said Thomas at the start of one recent video.

This use of Christianity is alarming the Church of England, with two leading bishops speaking out against this misappropriation of their faith.

“Any co-opting or corrupting of the Christian faith to exclude others is unacceptable, and I am gravely concerned about the use of Christian symbols and rhetoric to apparently justify racism, violence and anti-migrant behaviours,” said the Bishop of Southwark, the Right Rev Christopher Chessun.

He added: “I understand that there are many who may be swept up in movements like this who don’t necessarily buy-in wholesale to what is being said.

“I would encourage them to think again, to consider what kind of world they want to be a part of – and to choose compassion and understanding over hostility and violence.”
The Right Rev Arun Arora, left, and Christopher Chessun, right. The two Bishops reflected concerns shared by the Church of England regarding the use of Christianity to justify anti-migrant vigilantism (Photo: Diocese of Leeds/Getty)
The Christian leader highlighted that the men’s behaviour is coinciding with preparations to celebrate Christmas, which is a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ, who was a Middle Eastern child “who, with his parents, became a refugee, fleeing those who would do them harm”.

The Bishop of Kirkstall, who is also the Church of England’s co-lead Bishop on Racial Justice, added: “Christ’s call to love your neighbour is a hallmark and authenticator for all of those who would seek to follow his teachings or act in His name.

“It is a non-negotiable teaching which is glaringly absent in the actions of these men,” the Right Rev Arun Arora said.

He continued: “Any attempt to co-opt Christianity to particular political agendas or ideologies should be viewed with deep suspicion. The far right has often sought to wrap itself in flags or symbols which belong to us all.”

“We Can’t Stay Silent!” — Joanna Lumley and Rylan Clark’s RAW On-Air Clash Leaves Britain Shaken!

In a time when public figures often tread carefully around sensitive issues, two of Britain’s most recognizable television personalities — Dame Joanna Lumley and Rylan Clark — have emerged as unexpected voices of courage. Their recent comments on the UK’s growing migration crisis have sparked national debate, dividing opinion but earning both stars praise for their honesty and bravery.

Joanna Lumley, known for her elegance and sharp intellect, stunned audiences this week when she declared that the UK — “a small island nation” — simply “cannot feed millions.” Her words, though simple, struck a nerve. While critics accused her of being out of touch, thousands across the country applauded her for saying what many silently believe but are too afraid to express.

“Joanna’s not being cruel — she’s being real,” one supporter wrote online. “Someone finally said it.”

Meanwhile, Rylan Clark, the outspoken television host known for his quick wit and candor, made headlines of his own after describing the government’s immigration policies as “absolutely insane.” On This Morning, Rylan boldly defended the difference between supporting legal immigration and condemning illegal routes — a distinction that many politicians have avoided making publicly.

“You can be pro-immigration and still against chaos,” he insisted, a statement that instantly trended across social media.

The comments have earned both Lumley and Clark waves of backlash from critics and activists — but also admiration from ordinary Britons who feel ignored by mainstream voices. Despite facing complaints to Ofcom and intense media scrutiny, Rylan stood firm, later clarifying that his point was about fairness and balance, not exclusion.

For Lumley, her remarks echo decades of advocacy work on humanitarian issues — from refugees to sustainable development — proving her concern stems from compassion, not prejudice. She later emphasized the need for a “global approach” to migration that helps people at the source rather than overwhelming small host nations.

Yet one thing unites these two stars: neither is backing down. In an era where most celebrities fear cancellation or controversy, Joanna Lumley and Rylan Clark have done the unthinkable — they spoke their truth.

And whether you agree with them or not, Britain is talking. Loudly.

THEY CROSSED THE CHANNEL TO FIGHT BACK And the Boats Never Stood a Chance !

HOCKING FOOTAGE: Masked Brits Raid French Beaches & KNIFE Migrant Dinghies “NOT ONE MORE!”

Britons have been filming themselves travelling to beaches in France and ‘destroying’ small  boats – gaining thousands of views in the process

Boat insurance plans
Sanya Burgess is an award-winning journalist whose investigations have included revealing Deliveroo was not paying the living wage to all riders, despite the company’s pledge to do so. She has also tracked disinformation and far right hate speech in the UK during the Southport riots, conspiracy theories about the attempted shooting of Donald Trump and revealed that Elon Musk was paying some of Tommy Robinson’s legal fees. She has also worked on issues relating to Big Tech and underage gambling, as well as uncovering war crimes and human rights abuses in Iran, Myanmar and the UAE – including the ‘hostage’ tapes of the detained Dubai Princess Latifa.
British vigilantes who spearheaded efforts to fly England flags across the country have launched a new anti-migrant protest – attempting to block illegal Channel crossings.

Using the term “Operation Stop The Boats”, members of the group have been filming themselves 𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 small boats before they are used by migrants to cross the English Channel from France

Posts on social media show members calling for other British men to join them in France, including making a direct appeal to football hooligans, saying “we need to make a stand”.

In one video message shared this week by a member of the Raise the Colours group – the grassroots movement that has seen flags fixed to lampposts, motorway bridges and roundabouts across England – two men are seen evoking military language and the spirit of the British fight against the Nazis in the Second World War.
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Claiming to be recording from the northern French coast, one said: “Just like in the 1940s, we must take a stand, and it starts with the men of England and Britain.”

Making an appeal to “firms” – a phrase that refers to football hooligan groups – the other man added: “Our country is doing nothing. Weak government, weaker borders.

“They are doing nothing, so we need to make a stand, boys. Get the lads together, get your firms together, get the lads in the pub, get the lads down the bars, if you’re talking about it and you agree with what we are doing, give us a hand.”

The Government is under pressure to act after more than 36,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats (Photo: raisethecolours.org.uk/Instagram)
The Government is under pressure to tackle the issue of migration amid a record number of asylum applications, surging small   boat crossings and protests at hotels housing asylum seekers.
British history books
On Monday, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood set out a package of reforms to asylum policies aimed at tackling illegal migration, telling MPs the current situation is “out of control and unfair”.

The latest videos shared by those linked to the Raise the Colours group have separately been referred to as “Operation Overlord”.

Earlier clips showed two men saying they were taking matters of illegal migration into their own hands and filming themselves stamping on and smashing a small  boat’s engine.

In the clips, they refer to themselves as “patriots” and make a number of claims without evidence, such as that they are stopping “rapists and murderers” from “coming to a town near you”.

One video shared by the group
The flag-raising group, who have a combined 100,000 followers on X and Instagram, also posted a plea on X for donations last week, writing that they are: “STOPPING The  Boats, whether the migrants or government like it or not!”
Boat insurance plans
Two videos from the group have recently been shared to the 1.7 million X followers of Tommy Robinson. The far-right figure and former leader of the English Defence League, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has previously been accused of mobilising football hooligan firms in an attempt to launch anti-Muslim rallies across the country.

Separately, French media reports that the Dunkirk Public Prosecutor’s office has opened a preliminary investigation into “aggravated violence” against migrants by suspected British far-right figures.

One of the details being examined by the French prosecutor is the claim that in September, four men waving British and UK flags verbally and physically attacked migrants on the French coast. It is alleged that they told the migrants they were not welcome in England and proceeded to steal some of their belongings.

The men are not the first anti-migrant figures to travel to France in a bid to take matters into their own hands.

In September, Ukip, Nigel Farage’s former political party, posted a video to their X account showing what appeared to be sleeping migrants in France being woken by people flashing strobe lights in their faces and shouting at them.

Nick Tenconi, Ukip’s current leader, also posted a video captioned: “In Calais hunting for illegal invaders trying to cross into Britain.”
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The image was supposed to be the crowning achievement of a legendary career. Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, draped in the iconic red fire suit of Ferrari, standing atop a podium while the Italian anthem echoed through the grandstands. It was the “dream move” that shook the sporting world—a final, poetic chapter for a man who had already rewritten every record in the book. But as the 2025 season unfolded, that dream didn’t just fade; it curdled into a public relations and technical catastrophe that few could have predicted .

For the first time in his illustrious career, the man who dominated the turbo-hybrid era found himself adrift. The statistics from 2025 are not just disappointing; they are historically brutal. Despite a solitary sprint win in China early in the year, Hamilton’s season became a descent into the unknown. No podiums, no front-row starts, and a shocking chasm in pace compared to his teammate, Charles Leclerc. The nadir of this struggle came at the end of the year: three consecutive Q1 eliminations . For a driver of Hamilton’s stature, this wasn’t just a slump; it was an existential crisis played out in front of millions.

As the cameras zoomed in on Hamilton’s slumped shoulders and the tense radio exchanges between driver and pit wall, a narrative began to solidify across the paddock. The whispers grew into roars: Hamilton was “past it.” Critics argued that at 40 years old, the reflex-heavy demands of modern ground-effect cars had finally outpaced him. Even Ferrari’s own Chairman, John Elkann, seemed to distance the brand from the failure, delivering a chilling public warning that “drivers should talk less” . The implication was clear: the car wasn’t the problem; the driver was.

However, behind the closed doors of Maranello, a very different story was being whispered—one that suggests the public narrative is a total fabrication.

The first crack in the “declining legend” theory came from Diego Tognalli, Ferrari’s head of track engineering. In a series of candid reflections, Tognalli dropped a bombshell that challenged everything fans thought they knew. According to Tognalli, the perceived “tension” between Hamilton and the team was a byproduct of the external optics rather than internal dysfunction. He revealed that the relationship between the British champion and the Scuderia had actually strengthened as the results worsened .

Tognalli’s assessment was simple: you cannot take a driver who has spent an entire decade embedded in the Mercedes ecosystem—a world built specifically around his language, instincts, and habits—and expect him to rewire his entire racing DNA in a single season. The frustration the world saw on the radio wasn’t a sign of a bridge burning; it was the sound of a perfectionist refusing to accept a machine that wouldn’t talk back to him. The Ferrari SF25, it turns out, was less of a thoroughbred and more of a “broken machine” that no one could truly fix .

But while Tognalli offered a defensive view of the driver, former Ferrari engineer Luigi Mazzola provided a much more damning critique of the team itself. Mazzola, a veteran of the glory days at Maranello, didn’t mince words about the state of the Scuderia. He argued that Hamilton’s struggles weren’t a symptom of aging, but a symptom of “structural rot” within Ferrari’s technical department .

Mazzola’s critique goes to the very heart of why the SF25 failed. He pointed to a lack of a coherent development philosophy and a failure to establish a clear technical hierarchy under Fred Vasseur’s leadership. While other teams were refining their aerodynamics with surgical precision, Ferrari was reportedly misallocating resources and pursuing upgrade paths that introduced more balance issues than they solved. “A car that confuses a seven-time world champion isn’t exposing a driver problem,” Mazzola noted, “it’s exposing a system failure” .

This raises a terrifying prospect for the Tifosi: Is Ferrari currently a place where legends go to fade? The 2025 season proved that no amount of individual brilliance can overcome a car that lacks consistency and predictability. Hamilton didn’t fail to unlock the car’s potential; the car simply had no potential to offer a driver of his specific, high-sensitivity style. Hamilton himself eventually admitted relief at the end of the ground-effect era, acknowledging that these specific regulations never suited his natural strengths .

As we look toward the massive regulation shift in 2026, the stakes could not be higher. Formula 1 history is littered with champions who stayed one season too long, but Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was never about just “staying.” It was about the eighth title. Now, the paddock is divided into three potential futures for the most famous partnership in racing history .

In the first scenario, Ferrari finally fixes its internal culture. The 2026 reset allows the team to flush out the technical rot Mazzola warned about, providing Hamilton with the “weapon” he needs to fight at the front. This would be the “perfect ending”—an eighth title in red, silencing every critic who claimed he was finished.

In the second, darker scenario, the structural issues persist. Hamilton spends his final years wrestling with a car that fights him, and the greatest career in motorsport history ends not with a bang, but with a frustrated whisper. The third and perhaps most shocking possibility is that the relationship finally cracks under the weight of repeated failure, leading to an early retirement that leaves Ferrari scrambling and a legacy feeling tragically incomplete .

The 2025 season was a warning. It showed that in the high-stakes world of Formula 1, the truth rarely lives where the cameras point. Whether the internal optimism at Maranello is genuine or merely sophisticated damage control remains to be seen. One thing, however, is certain: the next chapter of Lewis Hamilton’s career won’t just be about his legendary speed. It will be a battle for survival against a system that has swallowed great champions before him.

As the lights go out for the next era, the question remains: Is the dream already dead, or is this simply the darkness before the most spectacular dawn in sports history?

The entertainment world has been plunged into a state of profound mourning following the shocking reports that legendary filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner has passed away in a horrific act of violence. The news, which indicates that Reiner was found stabbed to death in his home, has sent ripples of disbelief through Hollywood and beyond. Among those most affected is radio icon Howard Stern, who took to the airwaves to deliver a deeply personal and emotional tribute to a man he considered a “genius” and one of the most “loving” figures in the industry.

Howard Stern, known for his raw and often unfiltered commentary, was visibly shaken as he recounted his experiences interviewing Reiner over the years. “I just thought the world of this guy,” Stern told his audience, struggling to reconcile the gentle nature of the man he knew with the brutal circumstances of his death. To Stern, Reiner wasn’t just a celebrity; he was a “beautiful man” who managed to remain down-to-earth despite reaching the highest peaks of Hollywood success.

The legacy Rob Reiner leaves behind is nothing short of monumental. For many, he will always be “Meathead” from the revolutionary sitcom All in the Family, a role that cemented his status as a television legend. However, as Stern pointed out, Reiner’s second act as a director was perhaps even more impressive. He was the visionary behind a string of films that defined generations, including the mockumentary masterpiece This Is Spinal Tap, the quintessential coming-of-age story Stand by Me, the beloved fairy tale The Princess Bride, and the ultimate romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally. Stern even went as far as to call the Stephen King adaptation Misery “the best movie ever.”

During the tribute, Stern revisited a poignant interview where Reiner opened up about the immense pressure of being the son of the legendary Carl Reiner. Growing up in a household where comedy royalty like Mel Brooks was a constant presence, Rob faced the daunting task of carving out his own identity. Reiner shared a memory of being a terrified 16-year-old, nervously pitching a joke to his father and Brooks while they prepared for The Ed Sullivan Show. When they actually used his joke, Reiner described it as “the greatest thrill.”

Stern was particularly fascinated by Rob’s drive to be competitive with his father. Reiner recalled watching his father work on The Dick Van Dyke Show, meticulously studying how he fixed scripts and handled actors. “I wanted to be competitive with him,” Reiner once told Stern, admitting that at 14, he sat behind his father’s desk wondering, “How the hell am I going to do this?” It was this drive, born from a place of deep respect and love, that fueled one of the most successful directing careers in history.

The tragedy of Reiner’s passing is magnified by the reputation he held as a “mild-mannered and caring” individual. Stern emphasized that in every interaction, Reiner seemed genuinely connected to people, a rarity in the high-stakes environment of show business. He was a man who “turned it up to 11” in his professional life but remained remarkably humble in his private one.

As the investigation into this senseless tragedy continues, the focus remains on the incredible body of work Rob Reiner gifted to the world. From the laughter of Spinal Tap to the heart-tugging moments of Stand by Me, his influence is woven into the very fabric of modern cinema. Howard Stern’s tribute serves as a reminder that while a life can be taken in an instant, a legacy built on love, creativity, and genius is immortal. “To lose him is a real loss,” Stern concluded. “Rob Reiner, what a beautiful man.”

In the high-octane, billion-dollar world of Formula 1, drivers often come and go as polished products of corporate academies. They are coached in PR, shielded by massive wealth, and ushered into the sport through well-paved pathways. Then, there is Fernando Alonso. To understand the “Alonso Phenomenon” is to understand a story that defies the modern logic of the paddock. He is a driver who didn’t just participate in eras; he bridged them, outlasted them, and occasionally burned them down. As we look at the current grid of young, driven simulators, it becomes increasingly clear: the mold for a man like Fernando Alonso has been broken.

The story of “El Nano” did not begin under the bright lights of a prestigious racing school. It began in a modest garage in Oviedo, Spain. His father, a humble factory mechanic, built a go-kart out of discarded parts because the family couldn’t afford a professional one. His mother, working exhausting night shifts at a department store, hand-stitched his first racing suit. There was no Spanish “National Program” to support him because, at the time, Spain was a motorsport wasteland. This lack of infrastructure didn’t hinder Alonso; it forged him. By age three, he was navigating makeshift tracks in the rain, demonstrating a cold, calculating precision that would eventually terrify the greatest champions in history. This humble beginning is the cornerstone of his identity—a man who fought for every millimeter of asphalt because nothing was ever handed to him.

By the mid-2000s, Formula 1 had become a predictable, almost monotonous affair. Michael Schumacher and Ferrari were a relentless machine of perfection, crushing the spirits of rivals for five consecutive years. The sport was desperate for a disruptor, and in 2005, that disruptor arrived in a blue and yellow Renault. At just 24, Alonso became the youngest World Champion in history, following it up with a second title in 2006. He didn’t just beat Schumacher; he out-thought him. Alonso brought a “chess-master” mentality to the cockpit, managing tires, fuel, and psychological pressure with a maturity that bordered on the supernatural. He made F1 human again, replacing mechanical dominance with raw, Spanish passion.

However, the path to becoming a legend is rarely a straight line. If the Renault years were his ascent, the 2007 season at McLaren was his trial by fire. It was supposed to be a dream pairing—the reigning double champion joining one of the sport’s most iconic teams. Instead, it devolved into a civil war. The emergence of a young Lewis Hamilton and the internal politics of team boss Ron Dennis created a toxic environment that culminated in the infamous “Spygate” scandal. Alonso felt betrayed, treated like a visitor in his own house. While the media painted him as the villain, those who looked closer saw a man of immense pride who refused to be a secondary character in someone else’s story. That season changed him; he walked away from McLaren not as a defeated man, but as a rebel who would rather fight in the midfield than be a puppet for the elite.

Then came the Ferrari era—a period defined by what can only be described as “beautiful tragedy.” When Alonso donned the red suit in 2010, the Tifosi saw him as their savior. For five years, he performed miracles in cars that had no business being at the front of the grid. His 2012 season is still regarded by experts as the greatest single-season performance by any driver in history. He extracted magic from mediocrity, leading the championship against a dominant Red Bull team through sheer force of will. Yet, destiny was cruel. Between strategy blunders in Abu Dhabi and a few points’ difference in Brazil, the third title remained elusively out of reach. The image of Alonso slumped in his cockpit after the 2012 finale remains one of the most heartbreaking moments in sports history. He had given Ferrari his soul, but the machinery couldn’t match his heartbeat.

The following years at McLaren-Honda were perhaps his most difficult, yet they cemented his legacy as a fighter. Driving a car that was “embarrassing” and powered by what he famously called a “GP2 engine,” Alonso never stopped pushing. While other champions might have checked out or retired, Alonso treated every P15 finish like a battle for the lead. His frustration was vocal, but his work ethic was undeniable. When he finally walked away from F1 in 2018, many thought it was the end. But a predator doesn’t stop hunting just because the terrain changes. He conquered Le Mans twice, braved the sands of the Dakar Rally, and nearly took the Triple Crown at the Indy 500. He wasn’t chasing trophies; he was chasing the feeling of being alive behind a wheel.

His return to the grid in 2021 with Alpine, and his subsequent move to Aston Martin in 2023, has been nothing short of a miracle. In a sport that usually retires drivers by their mid-30s, a 40-plus-year-old Alonso is still schooling the new generation. His defense against Hamilton in Hungary 2021 and his string of podiums in the green Aston Martin have proven that talent does not have an expiration date. He has evolved from the angry rebel to the “Wise Warrior”—still fierce, still cunning, but now carrying the weight of two decades of experience. He is the bridge between the analog era of V10 engines and the digital era of hybrid power.

Why will there never be another Fernando Alonso? Because the modern racing world doesn’t allow for such “imperfection.” Today’s drivers are too protected, too managed, and often too similar. Alonso represents a brand of “pure racing” that values instinct over algorithms. He is a reminder that greatness isn’t just about how many times you win; it’s about how many times you get back up after being broken. He didn’t need the fastest car to prove he was the best; he proved it by surviving every storm and outlasting every rival. As he once said, he doesn’t race because he loves to win—he races because he loves to drive. And in that simple distinction lies the soul of a legend. Fernando Alonso may not have ruled the record books forever, but he ruled the hearts of everyone who believes that the human spirit is still the most powerful engine on the track.

The holiday season has always been a time of transformation, but few transformations are quite as dramatic—or as lucrative—as the one currently being staged by First Lady Melania Trump. After maintaining a notably low profile throughout much of the second Trump administration, Melania has burst back onto the public stage with the intensity of a winter blizzard. However, beneath the tinsel and the towering White House trees, a story of calculated business moves, multimillion-dollar deals, and a legacy of controversial recordings is unfolding, leaving the public divided and fascinated.

For weeks, the First Lady has been the face of a relentless holiday campaign. From receiving the official White House Christmas tree to reading festive books to children and assembling care packages for the military, Melania appears to have embraced the role of the nation’s holiday hostess with newfound vigour. Yet, many observers cannot help but notice the stark contrast between this “Christmas Pageant” version of the First Lady and the woman heard in leaked 2018 recordings asking, in no uncertain terms, “Who gives a **** about Christmas stuff and decorations?”

The sudden shift in tone has coincided with a flurry of commercial activity that has raised eyebrows from Washington to Wall Street. Central to the controversy is Melania’s new line of “commemorative” Christmas ornaments. Among the collection is a brass star retailing for $90, a price point that has led critics to question whether the holiday spirit is being used as a veil for a high-end cash grab. On a recent episode of The Late Show, host Stephen Colbert didn’t hold back, mocking the pricey trinkets and the First Lady’s seemingly “thawed” persona.

But the ornaments are just the tip of the iceberg. The real bombshell is the announcement of Melania’s new production company, Muse Films. Its maiden project? A documentary about her own life, which she has reportedly sold to Amazon for a staggering $40 million. This massive payday has shifted the narrative from festive duty to professional rebranding. Rumours are circulating that the name “Muse” is not just a nod to her former Secret Service code name, but a clever play on words—perhaps hinting at her desire to “use” films as a gateway to a new life in Los Angeles, far from the political grind of D.C.

The drama took an even more surreal turn during a recent parody segment on The Late Show, which captured the public’s skepticism through satire. The “First Lady” (portrayed as a satellite guest) quipped that she loves Christmas “the same way I love my husband—once a year,” and joked about having her sweat glands and tear ducts removed to maintain her icy, unbothered composure. While the comedy was sharp, it touched on a very real public perception: that Melania’s participation in White House traditions is a performance born of necessity rather than passion.

Furthermore, the physical state of the White House itself has become a point of contention. With reports of the demolition of parts of the historic East Wing, the satirical suggestion that Melania might sell “official East Wing rubble” for $99.99 hit a nerve with those concerned about the preservation of national history. It underscores a growing sentiment that the current administration views the symbols of the presidency through a lens of personal branding and monetization.

Perhaps the most telling moment of this holiday “hustle” came during the climax of her recent media push. When asked about her upbringing in Slovenia and the hardships of her youth, she allegedly teased a heartfelt story only to cut it short, informing the audience that if they wanted to hear the rest, they would have to buy a ticket to her $40 million documentary. “Suckers,” the parody version of the First Lady declared—a word that, while intended for laughs, reflects the cynical view many hold regarding the commercialization of the East Wing.

As the nation watches Melania Trump navigate this second act, it is clear that she is no longer content to be a silent partner. She is a woman with a plan, a production company, and a very specific price tag on her time and image. Whether this is a genuine attempt to connect with the American people through the magic of the holidays or the ultimate “long game” to secure a Hollywood future remains to be seen. One thing, however, is certain: this Christmas, the First Lady isn’t just trimming the tree; she’s building an empire, one $90 ornament at a time.

BREAKING NEWS: Lorraine Kelly’s husband quietly confirms their shock separation, as insiders reveal the devastating truth that left him “gutted, blindsided, and questioning everything.”

Lorraine Kelly’s Husband Subtly Confirms Separation After Uncovering a Hidden Secret

Lorraine Kelly, the beloved television presenter, has recently been at the center of a personal storm as her husband has subtly confirmed that the couple has separated. This revelation comes shortly after he discovered a secret that Lorraine had been keeping from him, which reportedly changed his perception of the woman he thought he knew. Fans and followers of the TV star have been left shocked by the news, eager to understand the circumstances surrounding this unexpected development.

The Subtle Confirmation of Separation

While neither Lorraine Kelly nor her husband has made a formal public statement, subtle hints and carefully worded comments have led to widespread speculation about the status of their marriage. Lorraine’s husband, in particular, has been noticeably reserved in recent interviews and social media posts, indirectly acknowledging the couple’s separation. His remarks suggest a sense of betrayal and disappointment, indicating that the secret he uncovered had a profound impact on their relationship.

This subtle confirmation has sparked a wave of interest among fans and media outlets alike. Lorraine Kelly, known for her warm and approachable personality, has always maintained a private personal life, making this revelation all the more surprising. The nature of the secret remains undisclosed, but the emotional weight it carries is evident in her husband’s statements.

What Could the Secret Be?

Speculation about the secret Lorraine Kelly was hiding has been rampant since the news broke. While no concrete details have been revealed, insiders suggest that it could relate to personal or family matters that Lorraine chose to keep private. Given her public image and the trust she has built with her audience, this hidden aspect of her life has understandably caused a stir.

Experts on  celebrity relationships note that secrets, especially those uncovered unexpectedly, can significantly strain even the strongest marriages. The feeling of discovering something unknown about a partner often leads to a reassessment of the relationship’s foundation. Lorraine Kelly’s husband’s comment, “That’s not the woman I thought I knew,” encapsulates this sense of disillusionment.

The Impact on Lorraine Kelly’s Career and Public Image

Despite the personal challenges, Lorraine Kelly continues to maintain her professional commitments with grace and resilience. Her ability to separate her private life from her public persona has been commendable, allowing her to remain a trusted figure in the media industry. However, the revelation of her separation and the secret she kept may influence public perception moving forward.

In the world of celebrity, personal matters often intertwine with professional reputations. Lorraine’s fans have expressed support and empathy, hoping she finds peace and clarity during this difficult time. The situation also highlights the pressures public figures face in balancing transparency with privacy.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Lorraine Kelly and Her Husband

As Lorraine Kelly and her husband navigate this new chapter, the focus remains on healing and understanding. Separation, while challenging, can also be an opportunity for growth and reflection. Both parties are likely to prioritize their well-being and personal happiness as they move forward separately.

For fans and followers, it is important to respect their privacy and allow them the space to manage their personal affairs without undue speculation. Lorraine Kelly’s strength and professionalism suggest that she will continue to thrive, both personally and professionally, despite this setback.

Support and Privacy: The Balance Fans Should Maintain

In times like these, public figures benefit greatly from the support of their audience. Offering empathy rather than judgment can make a significant difference. Lorraine Kelly’s journey reminds us that behind the glamour and fame, celebrities face real-life challenges just like anyone else.

Respecting boundaries and avoiding intrusive speculation helps maintain a healthy environment for both Lorraine and her family. Fans can continue to celebrate her achievements and contributions to the media while honoring her need for privacy.

Conclusion

Lorraine Kelly’s husband’s subtle confirmation of their separation following the discovery of a secret she had been hiding marks a poignant moment in the couple’s lives. While the details remain private, the impact on their relationship is clear. As Lorraine Kelly moves forward, her resilience and professionalism will undoubtedly guide her through this difficult period. Fans are encouraged to support her with kindness and respect for her privacy. Stay tuned for further updates on Lorraine Kelly’s personal and professional journey. If you want to stay informed about the latest celebrity news and personal stories, subscribe to our newsletter today!

Portugal will make its return to the Formula One circuit from 2027 after a new two-year agreement was confirmed.

The nation last hosted races in 2020 and 2021, with the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve – known as Portimao – staging racing during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Formula 1 stated that the 4.6 kilometre circuit will offer drivers a technical challenge, with elevation changes culminating in a plunge down to the final right-hander leading back to the pit straight.

‘I’m delighted to see Portimão return to the Formula 1 calendar and for the sport to continue to ignite the passion of our incredible Portuguese fanbase,’ said Stefano Domenicali, President and chief executive of Formula 1.

‘The circuit delivers on-track excitement from the first corner to the chequered flag, and its energy lifts fans out of their seats.

‘I look forward to working together again to ensure that Portimão returns to the calendar in emphatic style.’

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Portugal will return to the Formula One circuit from 2027 as part of a two-year deal

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Lewis Hamilton earned a record-breaking 92nd Grand Prix victory in Portugal back in 2020

Portugal will effectively replace the Dutch Grand Prix, with Zandvoort hosting racing for the last time next year before being removed from the calendar.

Portimao had been the location where Lewis Hamilton surpassed Michael Schumacher’s record of all-time wins when he claimed a 92nd Grand Prix triumph in 2021.

Hamilton is the only current driver on the grid to have won at the circuit having earned victories in 2020 and 2021.

The two races during Covid had seen F1 return to Portugal for the first time since 1996.

Portugal had hosted its first Grand Prix back in 1958 in Porto, while Monsanto and Estoril have also hosted race weekends.

Stirling Moss, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell are among winners of the Portuguese Grand Prix.

Prost and Mansell earned three victories in Portugal.

Senna’s triumph in Estoril in 1985 was the Brazilian’s first Grand Prix win.

As the festive season reaches its peak, nothing sparks quite as much nostalgia as the 2003 holiday classic Love Actually. In a delightful and somewhat revealing reunion on The Graham Norton Show, British acting icons Dame Emma Thompson and Rowan Atkinson sat down to reflect on the film that has become a staple of Christmas cinema. However, beyond the festive cheer and the iconic soundtrack, Thompson offered a sobering perspective on one of the movie’s most famous and emotionally taxing storylines.

For many viewers, the most heartbreaking arc in Love Actually is the collapse of the marriage between Karen (Thompson) and Harry (the late, great Alan Rickman). The tension reaches a breaking point when Karen discovers a heart-shaped gold necklace in Harry’s coat pocket, only to realize on Christmas morning that he bought it for another woman—his secretary—while she receives a Joni Mitchell CD. During her interview with Graham Norton, Thompson was asked about the resolution of that storyline, and her response was far from the “happily ever after” some fans might have hoped for.

“I think that when he gets off that plane at the end, you just don’t know,” Thompson mused, referring to the final scene where Karen greets Harry at the airport. “I think it will never be the same again. That’s the thing.” Her insight adds a layer of poignant realism to a film often criticized for being overly sentimental. For Karen, the betrayal wasn’t just about a piece of jewellery; it was the shattering of a shared life, a sentiment Thompson famously portrayed through a silent, gut-wrenching crying scene that remains one of the most celebrated performances in romantic comedy history.

The conversation took a lighter turn as Rowan Atkinson, who played the painstakingly slow and eccentric jewellery salesman Rufus, joined in to discuss their shared scene. In the film, Rufus is the man whose elaborate gift-wrapping nearly exposes Harry’s infidelity in the middle of a crowded department store. Thompson recalled the logistical nightmares of filming that specific sequence, which took place in the world-famous Selfridges in London.

Because Selfridges is one of the busiest retail hubs in the world, the production team was not permitted to film during business hours. This forced the cast and crew to work exclusively through the night, transforming the store into a makeshift film set while the rest of the city slept. Thompson fondly remembered the atmosphere, though she noted that not everyone was in high spirits during the midnight sessions.

“Alan Rickman, god bless him, was pretty annoyed about it,” Thompson laughed. “He didn’t really want to be up all night shooting. He was fairly short-tempered!” The image of the legendary Rickman—known for his deep, authoritative voice and often serious demeanour—being “grumpy” while surrounded by Christmas decorations and wrapping paper added a touch of human comedy to the legendary production storie.

While Rickman may have been struggling with the lack of sleep, Thompson admitted she found her own ways to pass the time in the empty department store. “I just did a spot of shopping,” she joked, leading Graham Norton to playfully suggest she might have been “shoplifting” during the off-hours. The chemistry between Thompson and Atkinson was palpable, reminding audiences why their brief interaction in the film remains such a standout moment of comedic tension.

Beyond the anecdotes, the reunion served as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the film and the talent of those involved. The late Alan Rickman’s performance as the flawed husband continues to be a point of discussion for fans, and Thompson’s reflections only deepen the appreciation for the complexity he brought to the role. Rufus, played with masterful physical comedy by Atkinson, serves as the cosmic intervener—a character originally written as an angel, though this was later changed to a mere mortal with a penchant for perfectionism in gift-wrapping.

As Love Actually celebrates another year as a holiday favourite, these behind-the-scenes revelations remind us that the magic of cinema often comes from long nights, short tempers, and a deep understanding of the human heart. Whether Karen and Harry’s marriage truly survived the credits is a question left to the audience, but Emma Thompson’s realistic take ensures that the conversation will continue for many Christmases to come.