Emmerdale star Amy Walsh has announced the heartwarming news that she is expecting a baby girl with EastEnders star husband Toby-Alexander Smith.

The Tracy Shankley star took to Instagram today to share the gender of their new addition.

In the video posted to the social media site, Amy’s nephews joined her daughter Bonnie-Mae, three, on a staircase, as text on the screen asked if Bonnie will still be the only girl in the family.

As the video transitioned to a poolside gathering, that question was answered when a kicked football exploded into a cloud of pink smoke, and the words, ‘Girl power coming in 2026’, appearing on screen.

Alongside the sweet video, which clearly showed the family’s elation at the gender reveal, Amy wrote: ‘New addition to the family incoming!’

Her Emmerdale co-stars were quick to take to the comments, with Amy Wyatt star Natalie Ann Jamieson writing: ‘Can not waitttttt’.

Amy Walsh and Toby-Alexander Smith have been married since 2023 (Picture: Karwai Tang/WireImage)
While Michelle Hardwick and Bradley Riches, who play Vanessa Woodfield and Lewis Barton, left love heart emojis in pink and white, Toby’s EastEnders co-star Shona McGarty, who played Whitney Dean, wrote: ‘OMG YAAAAAYYYY !!! Congratulations’.

Amy has been married to Gray Atkins star Toby since 2023, after the pair met in the audience of Strictly Come Dancing three years prior.

Amy was there to support her Emmerdale co-star Kelvin Fletcher – who went on to lift the glitter ball that series with professional partner Oti Mabuse.

Toby, on the other hand, had come to watch his own colleague Emma Barton, who plays Honey Mitchell in the BBC soap.

Toby played sinister EastEnders villain Gray Atkins (Picture: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Amy’s character Tracy Shankley is much nicer! (Picture: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Toby’s character Gray was a dastardly villain who ended up taking multiple lives during his reign of terror.

Drag performer La Voix is being lined up for a presenting gig on Strictly as bosses are ‘determined to find her a role’ in future series.

The cabaret star, whose real name is Christopher Dennis, impressed during her run on Strictly with her quick wit and repartee.

The singer, 45, made no secret of her ambitions for a hosting job, asking Claudia where she could send her CV, and standing in for skits with the presenters during the Saturday live shows.

On Wednesday, she was drafted in to host the finalists press conference, which is usually reserved for Strictly It Takes Two hosts Fleur East and Janette Manrara.

The event, which took place at the BBC‘s Broadcasting House, set tongues wagging among corporation staff when they spotted that La Voix was being keenly watched by BBC’s Head of Entertainment Commissioning, Kalpna Patel-Knight.

‘It was definitely an audition,’ said one insider.

‘Producers think she is the next Dame Edna Everage and are determined to find her a role on Strictly, whether that be on the main show or It Takes Two [the Strictly spin-off show].’

‘Claudia has been her biggest cheerleader and thinks La Voix is a perfect fit for Strictly.’

The cabaret star, whose real name is Christopher Dennis, made no secret of her ambitions for a hosting job, asking Claudia where she could send her CV, and standing in for skits with the presenters during the Saturday live shows

The 45-year-old impressed during her run on Strictly with her quick wit and repartee

According to reports, departing host Claudia (left) thinks La Voix is a perfect fit for Strictly

BBC bosses also asked her on Tuesday to fill in on their flagship breakfast show Morning Live, where she impressed replacing Gethin Jones alongside Helen Skelton.

The insider source said that like Dame Edna’s creator Barry Humphries, Mr Dennis is known for his kindness backstage with staff.

‘He has been a real support to everyone behind-the-scenes and it has not gone unnoticed by those at the top,’ they said.

‘While the priority is sorting out Claudia and Tess’s replacements, there are talks about how they can bring La Voix into the Strictly team.’

The Drag Race UK star, who this series danced with Aljaž Skorjanec before pulling out because of injury, and returned last night to watch Karen Carney list the famous glitterball trophy.

For more than a decade, Mrs Brown’s Boys has been one of the BBC’s most recognisable festive traditions.

But this Christmas, the laughter was drowned out by anger — and the man behind the madness is finally speaking out.

Brendan O’Carroll, the 70-year-old creator and star of the controversial sitcom, has made an emotional appeal to BBC bosses after fans blasted the show for “ruining the Christmas TV schedule” and demanded it be scrapped for good.

A Christmas That Turned Sour

When the BBC revealed its festive line-up, fury erupted online.

Viewers accused the corporation of ignoring heartfelt dramas in favour of what they branded “tired, noisy nonsense”, with Mrs Brown’s Boys singled out as the ultimate offender.

“Please don’t ruin Christmas with Mrs Brown’s Boys,” one furious fan wrote.
Another added: “Genuinely not one thing stands out. What a letdown.”

The backlash was so intense that even Brendan admits he felt the shift.

“I’d Love To Bring Her Back”

Speaking candidly, the comedian revealed he is desperate to revive his axed talk show All Round To Mrs Brown’s, which was shelved during the pandemic.

The series saw Brendan step back into Agnes Brown’s famous slippers to interview huge stars — from Pamela Anderson to Mel B — and, he says, gave him a freedom he rarely experiences now.

“I could write whatever I wanted,” he confessed. “No forced Christmas trees. No formula. Just comedy.”

And in a story that perfectly sums up the chaos of the show, Brendan recalled nervously asking Caitlyn Jenner where the “line” was — only to be told there wasn’t one.

“That was like waving a red rag at a bull,” he laughed.

Some critics claimed Mrs Brown’s Boys inclusion in the festive TV schedule had ‘ruined Christmas’

Irish broadcaster RTE has decided to abandon its usual Christmas Eve live broadcast – which Brendan usually hosts alongside Joe Duffy

A Show On The Brink?

When asked about the future of Mrs Brown’s Boys itself, Brendan admitted he hasn’t even been approached yet.

“They haven’t asked,” he said. “But if they do, I’ll certainly think about it.”

It’s a telling remark from a man whose creation once dominated Christmas night.

Meanwhile, Ireland’s RTE has quietly dropped its traditional Christmas Eve live broadcast — another blow for Brendan, who used to host the programme.

“I’m sad for people who won’t get to hear a little bit of home this year,” he said, revealing listeners once tuned in from Australia, New Zealand and even Argentina.

The Show That Beat Mrs Brown’s Boys

As anger grew, viewers pointed to the emotional Christmas special of Beyond Paradise — a dementia-themed episode that left many “crying their eyes out” — and asked why that wasn’t the centrepiece of Christmas TV.

One viewer summed it up perfectly:

“This is how you do a Christmas episode — heart, humour, emotion. Not shouting and slapstick.”

The Final Question

With two more specials still scheduled — one on Christmas Day and another on New Year’s Day — the fate of Mrs Brown’s Boys now hangs in the balance.

Is this just another storm that will pass…
or the beginning of the end for one of Britain’s most divisive festive traditions?

For Brendan O’Carroll, it may be the Christmas that decides everything.

The Strictly universe is spinning faster than a show-stopping quickstep today as beloved stars Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara finally confirmed what fans have been whispering for months — baby number two is officially on the way.

From ballroom royalty to baby bliss, the golden couple of Strictly Come Dancing have once again captured the nation’s heart with a reveal that is equal parts magical, emotional and deeply personal.

After weeks of subtle hints, mysterious captions about “new beginnings” and carefully framed family moments on social media, the pair broke their silence with a moving announcement that left their loyal fanbase in tears — reminding everyone why Aljaž and Janette remain the soul of the Strictly family: sincere, grounded, wildly in love and endlessly inspiring.

“We Needed To Hit Pause — And Rewrite The Script”

In a heartfelt interview, Janette, 41, and Aljaž, 35, shared that their second child is due in early 2026, arriving just as their firstborn daughter Lyra prepares to celebrate her second birthday.

“We’ve been holding this secret close for such a long time,” Janette confessed, gently resting a hand on her small but unmistakable bump. “Lyra’s first year was beautiful but chaotic — filming, parenting, sleepless nights, constant travel. This new baby feels like our cue to slow down, breathe, and rewrite the script.”

Aljaž, always the calm counterbalance to Janette’s infectious sparkle, added quietly:

“People see us dancing like nothing fazes us, but fatherhood changes everything. The real dance isn’t on the Strictly floor… it’s at home, in the quiet moments.”

Their announcement arrived with a breathtaking Instagram Reel: the couple slow-dancing in their sun-washed living room while little Lyra toddled between them, giggling with delight. As soft piano music swelled, an ultrasound clip appeared on screen with the caption:

“Our family’s growing… and so is our dream.”

Within minutes, the video racked up more than five million views, with fans flooding the comments in shattered-keyboard excitement:

“We KNEW IT!”
“The sparkle doubles!”
“The Strictly royal family expands!”

Baby No. 2 — And A Brave New Beginning

But the pregnancy isn’t the only life-changing news.

Alongside the announcement, Aljaž and Janette also revealed plans for their next major venture — a global online dance academy set to launch in spring 2026, titled Dance Without Limits.

“We want to bring ballroom to everyone,” Aljaž explained. “Kids dancing in tiny bedrooms, grandparents trying to waltz again, couples reconnecting — nobody needs fancy studios. Just passion.”

The academy will offer livestreamed classes, personalised coaching and interactive worldwide dance challenges, blending their two decades of combined Strictly experience with cutting-edge digital technology.

Janette added with a smile:

“People have always messaged us saying, ‘Teach us like you taught each other.’ So we thought — why not teach the whole world?”

For them, it’s more than business — it’s a mission to make dance joyful, accessible and universal.

A Love Story Britain Has Grown Up With

From the moment both were cast on Strictly in 2013, Aljaž and Janette became inseparable parts of the show’s magic. Their romance bloomed beneath the studio lights, leading to a glamorous wedding in 2016 and, years later, the miracle of their daughter Lyra — born after a long, emotional IVF journey.

“We wanted to be real about it,” Janette said. “Life isn’t perfect. Sometimes you fall out of step. But love teaches you how to move again.”

When Aljaž briefly stepped away from Strictly in 2021, rumours of burnout and homesickness swirled — but by 2024 he returned renewed, crediting fatherhood for grounding him.

“Dancing with a celebrity partner is a dream,” he reflected. “But coming home to Janette and Lyra? That’s the encore I’ll never stop wanting.”

Internet Meltdown: Strictly Fans In Tears

The announcement sent Strictly Nation into collective hysteria, with fans declaring:

· “This news has healed me!”
· “From Blackpool lights to baby bottles — pure magic!”
· “We’ve watched you fall in love for a decade. This feels like family news!”

Even Strictly royalty joined in:

Tess Daly: “Double the sparkle! So thrilled for you both ”
Craig Revel Horwood: “Darlings, may your next baby inherit your FABULOUSNESS — and none of your timing issues!”
Claudia Winkleman: “I cried. Then danced. Obsessed. ”

Their Legacy: Love, Rhythm & Resilience

As they prepare to welcome their second child, the couple insist they’re not stepping away from Strictly — only stepping into a new chapter.

“We’re still part of the Strictly family,” Aljaž said. “But this chapter is about teaching, creating and bringing dance to the world.”

A baby on the way. A global dream launching. A family growing. A love story still dancing into the nation’s heart.

In a tense and emotional scene outside the County Court of Victoria, Jo Silvagni, the wife of AFL legend Stephen Silvagni, exploded in anger at a persistent reporter moments after their youngest son, Tom Silvagni, was sentenced to six years and two months in prison for rape. The 23-year-old was convicted earlier this month of two counts of digital rape following a 2024 incident at the family’s home.

As the couple hurriedly left the courthouse, flanked by security and avoiding the swarm of media, a well-known Channel 7 reporter approached them with questions about the verdict and the family’s ongoing claims of Tom’s innocence. “Mrs Silvagni, do you still believe your son is innocent after today’s sentencing?” the reporter asked.

Jo Silvagni, visibly distraught and protective, wheeled around and screamed directly into the reporter’s face: “Shut up! Just shut up!” Her voice echoed across the courthouse steps, laced with fury and desperation. She insisted vehemently that her son was innocent, calling the accusations “completely absurd and a miscarriage of justice.” Eyewitnesses described her as trembling with rage, her eyes filled with tears as she defended Tom, repeating that the jury had got it wrong and that the family would fight to clear his name.

For minutes, Stephen Silvagni remained silent, walking stoically beside his wife with his head down, offering no comment as cameras flashed and microphones were thrust forward. The media pack pressed harder, asking about the victim’s powerful impact statement and the judge’s remarks on Tom’s lack of remorse.

Then, in a moment that left everyone stunned, Stephen Silvagni – the usually composed Carlton Football Club hall-of-famer known as “SOS” (Son of Serge) – suddenly broke his silence. Stopping abruptly, he turned to the reporters and said in a low, gravelly voice: “Enough is enough. We’ve supported him through this, but maybe it’s time we face the truth.” The remark hung in the air like a bombshell, interpreted by those present as a potential crack in the family’s united front of denial. Gasps were audible from the gathered journalists, and one cameraman reportedly dropped his equipment in shock.

The couple quickly resumed walking, ignoring follow-up shouts, as they were ushered into a waiting car. Neither has made an official statement since, but sources close to the family say the comment was born out of exhaustion and the immense pressure of the high-profile case.

The dramatic confrontation capped a harrowing day in court for the Silvagni family, one of Australia’s most famous AFL dynasties. Tom Silvagni, the youngest of three sons – brother to St Kilda player Jack and former Carlton-listed Ben – appeared via video link from custody as Judge Gregory Lyon handed down the sentence. The 23-year-old showed no visible reaction as the judge described his actions as “marked by planning, cunning and strategy,” highlighting a complete lack of remorse and empathy for the victim.

The crime occurred in January 2024 at the Silvagni family’s Balwyn North home. The victim, a young woman in a casual relationship with Tom’s friend, had consensual sex with her partner before he left in an Uber. Tom then entered the dark bedroom, pretended to be the boyfriend, and digitally raped her twice – once by deception and once while restraining her despite her protests. He later forged an Uber receipt in a bid to create an alibi, which the jury rejected as evidence of a cover-up.

In sentencing, Judge Lyon praised the victim’s “real integrity and courage” for coming forward and reading her impact statement in person. She described the trauma haunting her “every single day,” leading to nightmares, PTSD, and shattered trust in relationships. The judge noted Tom’s good rehabilitation prospects due to his youth, supportive family, and lack of prior convictions but stressed the seriousness of the deception involved.

Tom must serve at least three years and three months before being eligible for parole, having already spent 12 days in pre-sentence detention.

The case has gripped the nation, not just for the salacious details but for the prominence of the Silvagni name. Stephen Silvagni, a dual premiership player and AFL Team of the Century full-back, and Jo, a former Sale of the Century host and longtime TV personality known for Chemist Warehouse ads, have been fixtures in Melbourne’s elite circles. Their grandson lineage traces back to Sergio Silvagni, another Carlton great.

Throughout the proceedings, the family maintained Tom’s innocence. After the guilty verdict on December 5, Stephen tearfully told media: “Our son continues to maintain his innocence, and we stand firmly behind him.” They flagged a possible appeal, and sources indicate lawyers are still exploring options.

However, today’s alleged remark from Stephen has sparked intense speculation. Was it a slip revealing doubt after hearing the judge’s scathing assessment? Or frustration at the media frenzy? Friends of the family describe the Silvagnis as “devastated and divided,” with the weight of public scrutiny and the victim’s unflinching testimony taking a toll.

The outburst from Jo reflects a mother’s fierce protectiveness, but her physical shoving of a female reporter (as reported in some outlets) and sharp words have drawn criticism online, with many accusing the family of victim-blaming. Social media has erupted, with hashtags like #JusticeForTheVictim trending alongside debates over privilege in the justice system.

Tom’s suppression order, fiercely fought by high-powered lawyers, was lifted just days before sentencing, unleashing a flood of coverage. Previously referred to as a “man from a high-profile Victorian family,” his identity became common knowledge despite the gag.

Victim advocates have hailed the sentence as a victory, emphasizing that no amount of fame shields perpetrators. “This shows the system can work, even against powerful families,” said one spokesperson from a sexual assault support group.

As Tom begins his prison term, questions linger about the Silvagni family’s future. Jack Silvagni, now at St Kilda, has remained silent amid his own career pressures. Jo’s advertising contracts, including with major brands, are reportedly under review.

In the end, Stephen’s stunning remark may prove the most enduring image from a case that has exposed the raw pain behind a glamorous facade. Whether it signals a shift in the family’s stance or a moment of raw emotion remains unclear, but it has left the media – and the public – reeling.

The Silvagnis have requested privacy as they process the outcome. An appeal lodging is expected in coming weeks.

Joaппa Lυmley Shares Emotioпal Health Update After Stroke: “I’m Fightiпg — Bυt I Caп’t Do It Aloпe”

After weeks of anxious silence and growing concern among admirers around the world, Joanna Lumley has shared a deeply moving update on her health following a serious medical emergency that doctors have classified as critical.

The beloved British actress, writer, and humanitarian confirmed that she recently underwent surgery and is now beginning a long and arduous recovery process.

While she has chosen to keep many medical details private, her words carried a quiet bravery that resonated instantly with fans:

“I still have a long road ahead,” Lumley wrote. “But I believe in healing — through love, through family, and through the kindness and prayers from all of you.”

A Sudden Health Crisis

According to sources close to the family, Lumley’s stroke came unexpectedly, prompting immediate medical intervention and a period of strict analysis.

Family says the situation was serious enough to require urgent surgery, followed by close monitoring and rest.

Her seriousness soon worldwide for her elegance, tireless activism, and seemingly boundless energy, the news was both shocking and sobering.

Yet those closest to her say Lumley faced the crisis with the same quiet courage that has defined her character for decades.

“She’s never been someone who dramatizes pain,” said one longtime friend. “But this was frightening. It forced her to dig deep — something Joanna rarely does.”

“I’m Fighting — But I Can’t Do It Alone”

In her most powerful statement, Lumley acknowledged both her determination and her vulnerability.

“I’m fighting,” she shared. “But I can’t do it alone.”

The words struck a chord across social media, where thousands of messages poured in within hours.

Followers, public figures, and fans from multiple generations expressed gratitude for her honesty — and admiration for her strength.

Medical experts said that recovery from a stroke is rarely linear.

Fatigue, emotional strain, and physical rehabilitation often accompany the healing process.

Lumley herself alluded to this reality, emphasizing patience and self-compassion as her fight goes through.

Surrounded by Family and Love

Friends describe Lumley as being surrounded by close family members and a small, trusted circle of lifelong companions.

The atmosphere, they say, is calm, supportive, and deeply loving — exactly what doctors recommend during early recovery.

“She draws enormous strength from the people around her,” another source explained. “She hates fuss. She rests. And she allows herself to be cared for.”

That shift, subtle yet profound, marks a new chapter for a woman long celebrated for her independence and resilience.

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A Life That Touched Millions

For decades, Joanna Lumley has been far more than a screen icon.

From unforgettable performances to tireless humanitarian work, she has consistently used her voice to advocate for others — refugees, veterans, environmental causes, and marginalized communities.

Now, supporters say, the world has an opportunity to give something back.

“She has spent her life comforting others,” one admirer wrote online. “Let her rest. She’s earned it.”

---

Hope, Not Headlines

Those close to Lumley stress that this update is not about spectacle or sympathy, but connection.

There is no timetable for her return to public life, and no pressure for appearances or performances.

Recovery, they emphasize, is the priority.

In her own words, Lumley once described the meaning of something simple — and deeply human:

“Sometimes, what matters most on the road to healing is knowing you’re not alone.”

As messages of love continue to arrive from every corner of the globe, that truth feels unmistakably clear.

Joanna Lumley is not walking this road by herself — and she never has.

An ITV legend launched a surprise new career after he quit This Morning and left his colleagues in tears.

Martin Frizell stepped down as editor of the daytime programme back in February to take care of his wife Fiona Phillips, who has Alzheimer’s.

Now, he has announced his next career move and revealed on Instagram that he would be working on a new weekly podcast, This Much Is True Crime.

The new venture is set to launch soon, but an exact date is yet to be confirmed.

He wrote: ‘Takes a prolific serial killer to knock Adolescence off the No1 Netflix spot. Gone Girls profiles America’s modern day Jack the Ripper and his body count may not be over yet!

‘Coming soon is This Much is True Crime, a new weekly podcast with Britain’s leading criminologist (and serial killer expert) Prof David Wilson and me (Fred West and many other crime reports).

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Producer Martin Frizell (right) stepped down as editor of the daytime programme back in February to take care of his wife Fiona Phillips (left), who has Alzheimer’s

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Now, he has announced his next career move and revealed on Instagram that he would be working on a new weekly podcast, This Much Is True Crime

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It comes after Martin appeared on This Morning in February on his very last day on set. Pictured sharing an emotional farewell with Alison Hammond

‘If it’s in the headlines or the ratings, we’re talking about it. We start with Gone Girls. Not just a whodunnit, but a whydunnit?’

It comes after Martin appeared on This Morning in February on his very last day on set.

Martin had overseen the show’s production for the last decade and at the end of his final episode, he sat on the sofa with Josie Gibson and Alison Hammond.

In a moving segment, the co-presenters told Frizzell how much he meant to them and how much they valued his impact on their careers.

An emotional Hammond said: ‘He’s the one that took a chance on us, transforming mine and Josie’s careers.

‘It’s an incredible opportunity and we just want to say thank you very much. We love you’.

The This Morning presenter continued: ‘On behalf of the team on This Morning we think you are incredible and we are so sad to see you go’.

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Josie Gibson (left) and Alison Hammond (centre) invited This Morning boss Martin Frizzell (right) onto the show’s famous sofa on what was his last day

Gibson echoed Hammond’s words, adding that Frizell believed in her when she didn’t even believe in herself.

‘I just want to say, thank you so much because you believed in me when I didn’t even believe in myself and you grew me as a presenter and I just can’t thank you enough’.

Reacting to the pair’s kind words, Frizell replied: ‘If you were rubbish, you wouldn’t be on telly. You’re very good. It has been a great ride and a fantastic time’.

His departure from the show’s production team had been announced earlier on during the broadcast by Gibson and came off the back of his own announcement last November that he would soon be stepping down for personal reasons.

Frizell’s wife Fiona Phillips had received a heartbreaking Alzheimer’s diagnosis back in 2022, with the This Morning boss taking the decision to quit the show in order to spend more time with her.

‘Next year I’m expecting my family priorities to change, so I need to free up time for them’, the 66-year-old said back in November.

‘I love my team at This Morning and will miss them and the thrill of live telly, but it’s an always on, 24 hours a day, seven days a week commitment, and I won’t be able to do both.

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Alison Hammond (left) being embraced by show boss Martin Frizzell (right) after breaking down in tears over his departure from This Morning

‘It’s been a privilege to lead truly great presenters and producers, between us we’ve turned out more than six thousand hours of live topical telly, that’s around 20,000 items.

‘Whilst the gongs are always nice, I’m most proud of the change we made to so many lives, even saving a fair few with our campaigns on anti-suicide, menopause, testicular cancer and ‘how-to’ items.

The film is now rated a 12 for triggering moments, including ‘occasional transphobic remarks’

GB News guests teamed up to slam the “silly” decision to slap the 1961 adaptation of West Side Story with a trigger warning.

Political commentators Andy Twelves and Alice Grant criticised the decision, with the latter branding the move as part of the “woke agenda”.

The once family-friendly, PG-rated film adaptation of the legendary Broadway musical is now a 12 certificate.

The story is inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, setting the tragic romance in 1950s New York.

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) declared the change after reviewing a number of themes and scenes which could “trigger” younger viewers.

A warning addresses sexism and “occasional transphobic remarks”, which is believed to be highlighting comments around “tomboy” Anybodys, a character interpreted as refusing to conform to gender norms.

Both guests appeared baffled at the move, with Mr Twelves saying: “I think it’s a bit silly.”

Mr Twelves went on to say if a warning should be supplied, it should address the brutal violence depicted, with the film including several scenes where stabbings take place.

He continued: “Unfortunately, you know, kids are starving. People are freezing to death.

Andy Twelves and Alice Grant took aim at the decision

“There are bigger things to think about than West Side Story for most people and the Government and any quango probably should.

In agreement, Ms Grant blasted the “oversensitiv-isation” of media.

She added: “It just reminds me of when I recently saw a trigger warning similarly on Breakfast at Tiffany’s with Audrey Hepburn because of stereotypes, there may have been portrayed in the film.

“As you said, there are so, so many worse things happening in our media and in our culture on our streets.”

Another warning for West Side Story now addresses “moderate violence, sexual threat [and] discrimination”, stressing characters smoking cigarettes and reference to alcoholism.

It flags people being “stabbed with clear sight of knife impact, though there is no blood” and another character being shot.

Eamonn reflected on going to see Grease for the first time in the cinema

Instead, Ms Grant condemned the “massive rise” of violence in films.

“There are shows I don’t think I would feel comfortable showing children, which seem to have no warnings whatsoever to do with violence.

“And yet when it’s something that is on the woke agenda, like gender or stereotypes, that seems to be flagged, this doesn’t really make sense.”

GB News star Eamonn Holmes pivoted the discussion to his latest rewatch of 1978 movie musical Grease, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John.

He said: “I remember going to see it when I was 17. I was shocked because it mentioned lots of things that you shouldn’t mention, about pregnancies and contraception and all sorts of things.

“You were thinking, ‘oh my goodness, what sort of film is this?’

“And I watched it again on Christmas, Christmas Day. I really believe this may be one of the finest films ever made. So people, we all change over time.”

At this point, Ms Grant added: “I think you make a really interesting wider point, which is that there used to be a sort of point to films and to media that should be to sort of elevate you slightly culturally, or at least to give you a feel good factor.

“Something that you watch and you come away from feeling inspired in some way.

“But recently, I find especially on Netflix, and the shows designed for teenagers and adolescents are so awfully depressing,” she added, condemning the “dark subjects” that the shows address.

“As I’ve got older and you get pressures of work coming on you and things, I want something to entertain me, and you look at what’s at the cinema and this is about death, depression, people being kidnapped, people being tortured.

“I want escapism. I want Star Trek Wrath of Khan. That’s what I want. I want something like that.”

Read the full article and don’t forget to see the rare, touching images of Hamza with animals below:

Move over, every polished presenter who ever read a script about badgers: Britain has chosen its new natural-history heartbeat, and he’s a 6-foot-6 Sudanese-Scottish giant who learned to track lynx before he could drive, cries when otters hold hands, and once spent 42 straight nights sleeping in a hide just to film pine martens falling in love.

Last night, BBC One dropped the first trailer for Hamza’s Wild Britain (a six-part landmark series launching spring 2026), and within four hours it became the most-watched BBC trailer in a decade. The final 15 seconds alone have been viewed 28 million times: Hamza, knee-deep in a Highland river at dawn, whispering so gently the microphone barely catches it as a mother otter teaches her pup to swim literally inches from his face. No music. Just his soft Glasgow-Sudanese lilt: “Look… she’s telling him the water will hold him, if he trusts it. Same thing my mum told me when we arrived in Scotland and I couldn’t speak a word of English.”

The numbers are insane:

4.7 million pre-saved the series on iPlayer before a single episode aired.
#HamzaYassin trended above the general election results.
Children’s bookshops sold out of otter plush toys by 10 a.m. because “my kid says Hamza told them to love otters.”

But the real story isn’t the ratings; it’s the journey.

Hamza arrived in rural Northamptonshire from Sudan at age eight, speaking no English, clutching a bird book his father gave him “because birds don’t care what language you speak.” By twelve he was the weird kid cycling ten miles before school to photograph kingfishers. At sixteen he won Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year with a shot of a fox cub yawning that looked like it was laughing at the universe. University (Bangor, zoology) was just an excuse to live closer to puffins.

Then came the decade nobody saw: camera-operating on Planet Earth III, Springwatch, and Countryfile, always the guy in the muddy boots who could lie motionless for 14 hours until a badger sniffed his lens and decided he was harmless. Crew nicknamed him “the Otter Whisperer” after he filmed the first-ever footage of wild otters playing with pebbles in the Cairngorms, entirely by becoming part of the furniture for six weeks.

His big break was accidental. In 2022 he entered Strictly Come Dancing “because my mum loves glitterballs and I thought it might pay for a new hide.” He won the whole thing with Jowita Przystał, foxtrotting like a man who’d spent his life learning rhythm from golden eagles soaring on thermals. Overnight, eight million people discovered the gentle giant who spoke about conservation between sambas.

The BBC pounced. First Hamza: Wild Isles (2024), then the Emmy-nominated Hamza’s Sudan (2025), where he returned to his birthplace to film the last northern white rhinos under the same stars he watched as a child. Critics called it “the most emotional hour of television this decade.” Viewers just called it “life-changing.”

Now Hamza’s Wild Britain is being billed as the spiritual successor to Attenborough’s Life on Earth. Shot entirely by Hamza himself (he still refuses a full camera crew because “animals don’t like strangers”), it promises never-before-seen behaviour: red squirrels teaching their young to tightrope-walk power lines, urban foxes using pedestrian crossings at night, golden eagles hunting in snowstorms so violent Hamza had to be roped to a cliff for three days.

 HE DIDN’T LIFT THE GLITTERBALL — BUT HE WON SOMETHING GREATER  A son who stood on thɑt stɑge for his mum — brɑvely fighting breɑst cɑncer — ɑnd mɑde her prouder thɑn ɑny judge ever could.

Strictly Come Dancing finalist George Clarke left viewers in tears as he struggled to contain his emotions during a moving interview on It Takes Two, just hours before the grand final tonight (Saturday, December 20).

George and Alexis discussed the final (Credit: BBC)
Fans were in tears too (Credit: BBC)
George Clarke and dance partner Alexis Warr (pictured) are hoping to emerge victorious in Saturday’s finale of Strictly Come Dancing
YouTuber George Clarke has become the people’s favourite in this year’s Strictly for both his impassioned dancefloor performance and the way he dedicated his routine as a ‘love letter’ to his family, specifically his adored mother Nicky – who is currently fighting breast cancer.
Family games

The 26-year-old TikTok sensation, joined by pro partner Alexis Warr, was overcome when shown heartfelt messages of support from his family during the show on Friday evening. Unable to continue, George wiped away tears and apologised, admitting: “Sorry… this is awful of me,” as he reflected on the journey that has brought him to the verge of the Glitterball Trophy.

It’s all too easy to see why Strictly bosses hope that privately-educated George’s popularity with savvy online youngsters may revitalise what has become an increasingly toxic and tired television brand

George explained that he’d tried not to think about the final in order to stay present, saying the experience has already given him “imposter syndrome,” but also acknowledging how difficult the aftermath of the competition may feel once the whirlwind ends.

Fans watching at home were visibly moved, taking to social media to share their own tears and praise his humility and vulnerability. Messages poured in: “I’m emotional for George,” “Don’t cry, you’ll set me off,” and “He is so loved.”

Despite being a strong favourite among the public, bookmakers currently place him behind Karen Carney in the odds. But George’s journey has resonated far deeper than scores or rankings — driven not by fame, but by love and a desperate desire to make his mother proud.

In week eight, his emotional rhumba dedicated to his mum Nicky — who is bravely battling breast cancer — earned widespread admiration. The routine, described as a “love letter,” left both George and his family in tears and marked the moment when the wider Strictly audience embraced him.

George spoke candidly about his mother’s diagnosis, admitting that she has endured more than most: “Nobody deserves what she has gone through, least of all her.” Her illness now dominates family life, and George has been open about how the news has affected him.

The YouTuber, known for his massive online following — 2.4 million TikTok fans, nearly a million across Instagram and YouTube — has captured attention beyond his digital audience. Strictly bosses reportedly hope his popularity with younger viewers may breathe new life into the long-running show.

Unlike his rivals, George has no professional dance background. Friends say the only dancing he ever did before Strictly was at university socials, making his progress even more remarkable. Meanwhile, fellow finalists Amber Davies and Karen Carney have sparked debate due to their extensive dance experience.

George’s journey is also tied to a quieter family story. His mother’s resilience isn’t new — she previously battled encephalitis when he was 16, leaving George traumatised after witnessing her seizure. Yet he describes her as selfless and strong, apologising to the family even after her recovery.

Supporting him from the audience is his girlfriend, model Yasmin Bennett, credited by George as believing in him “more than I did.” His upbringing in Bristol, private education, and university degree paint a picture of a grounded young man who chose effort over shortcuts — despite his father’s senior role at Aardman Animations.

Amber Davies, meanwhile, has faced backlash from viewers because of her stage background and will not participate in the Strictly tour due to prior commitments to the musical Legally Blonde.

George’s growing public profile, however, seems set to extend beyond Strictly, with new TV opportunities reportedly emerging. Insiders say he may be on the verge of becoming a breakout star — not just online, but across mainstream media.

And should he lift the Glitterball Trophy tonight, no supporter will be cheering louder than his mother — the woman whose courage inspired his every step on the Strictly dancefloor.