Blog

Strictly star Gorka Marquez has spoke about his wedding to fiancée Gemma Atkinson, and why it’s on hold for now.

Former Hollyoaks and Emmerdale star Gemma, 40, and Strictly Come Dancing superstar Gorka, 34, got engaged in 2021.

The couple share two children together Mia, six, and Thiago, two.

But despite being a happy little family, last year, Gemma and Gorka addressed why their nuptials were being pushed back for another year. Now, more than a year later, Gorka has revealed their wedding day is still on hold…

Gemma Atkinson and Gorka Marquez have been engaged for a couple of years but are yet to marry (Credit: YouTube)

Gemma Atkinson and Gorka Marquez news

Speaking to OK! magazine last spring, Gemma explained why they still hadn’t set a date for their big day.

Originally, she hinted they had envisioned getting wed when Mia was old enough to be part of the celebrations. But then she said that they wanted to wait until Thiago could be involved.

“We’d like Thiago to be involved now so we’re going to have to wait another year or so,” Gemma said in April 2024.

We’d like Thiago to be involved now so we’re going to have to wait another year or so.

“When we first got engaged we said we’ll get Mia walking down the aisle and then Thiago came along… and there’s no time!”

‘It doesn’t matter’

However, fast forward to June 2025, and still no wedding date is in the diary for the pair. Gorka – on Soccer Aid this Sunday (June 15) – explained why to Hello! earlier this week.

He said: “It will be nice, but we wanted to get married before, but then we had Mia. Then Covid happened. Then after Covid we got pregnant with Thiago. [Gemma] was like: ‘I’m not going to have a wedding pregnant and after the pregnancy she’s like I need to get in shape.’

“And also Thiago now is still not independent so we say when they are old enough they both can walk and be independent. Imagine being on your wedding and he’s crying and just wants Mummy.”

Gorka also revealed that when the time does come, his little ones will have a special role on the wedding day. He said “they can bring the flowers and the rings and everything”. He also said they could “do a little dance with us”.

Despite wanting to tie the knot with Gemma, Gorka added: “The thing is that we are going to get married, but we are happy how we are, we have two children. It doesn’t matter if we sign a document or not.”

What kind of wedding could Gorka and Gemma have? (Credit: YouTube)

‘Toying with just going to a registry office’

Additionally, it seems Gemma and Gorka haven’t settled on what kind of wedding they’d be most happy with. For Gemma, family considerations are at the front of her mind.

That’s despite the couple considering having a quiet do. But, as is often the case with family occasions, how others fit in is paramount.

Gemma continued: “We were toying with just going to a registry office and then having a big party after. But I think my mum would like to see me walk down the aisle so no plans yet but one day it will happen.”

Max Verstappen has snapped back at continued questions over a potential race ban given his penalty points situation after he was beaten to pole position in Canada by George Russell

Max Verstappen is sick of questions regarding his penalty points

Max Verstappen was left fuming as he again had to face questions over a possible race ban and admitted its “really p***ing me off”. The Red Bull driver is one penalty point away from being hit with a race ban.

His antics at the recent Spanish Grand Prix, where he drove into rival George Russell, saw him have more points added to his licence and he will drive at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix knowing he must toe the line.

Verstappen is known for his aggressive style, which has been a hallmark throughout his career, and the Dutchman may have to show a more measured approach at Montreal if he doesn’t want to be absent from the grid later down the line.

It was Russell whom he clashed with in Barcelona and the pair have history, exchanging verbals in the past. They have drawn a line in the sand but the saga continues to be bought up and Verstappen had enough as he snapped at one question.

As F1’s Tom Clarkson began a question about Verstappen’s penalty points as well as his rivalry with Russell but the defending world champion quickly stopped him in his tracks and said: “I don’t need to hear it again.” He then added: It’s really p***ing me off. You [the media] speaking about it on Thursday, it’s such a waste of time. It’s childish. It’s really annoying this world that we live in.’

Russell meanwhile appears more than happy to poke the bear after landing pole position with a stunning lap in Montreal. He stuck his Mercedes ahead of Verstappen, who will start second ahead of world championship leader Oscar Piastri going into Turn 1.

When he was asked about his pole lap the Mercedes star smirked and said: “I’ve got a few more points on my licence to play with.” That drew some cheers but also audible boos from fans in the stands at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.

George Russell was thrilled after qualifying on pole in Montreal(Image: Formula 1 via Getty Images)

The Brit added: “To be honest that last lap was probably one of the most exhilarating laps of my life. I got into the last corner and I was six tenths up and I was like, ‘This lap is mighty’. Crossing the line and seeing we were P1 was a real surprise, but I was so chuffed with it.”

Russell had whooped with delight over the radio after his pole was confirmed and shouted: “What a f****** lap!” The same could not be said about Lando Norris, who was under pressure in the final round of qualifying after fluffing his opening lap.

The best he could muster after that issue was seventh as his engineer looked to re-inspire his confidence over team radio. It gives Norris plenty to do as he looks to close on his team-mate. He said: “A tough Qualifying and not the result I was after. We were lacking a little bit of pace to the quickest cars, and I’ve pushed a bit too much to try and find that.”

While new shows are set to air this week, Soccer Aid also makes comeback to ITV with a multitude of familiar faces – from Tyson Fury to Jill Scott – taking part in the challenge.

Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell will host the newest series of Long Lost Family(Image: ITV)

Another week of TV lies ahead, with plenty of shows to keep everybody happy – from nail-biting dramas and hard-hitting documentaries to long-awaited favourites.

Soccer Aid makes an anticipated return with Dermot O’Leary and Alex Scott set to host the charity football match on ITV. But another comeback is expected, with Noel Edmonds fronting a new show lifting the lid on his new life in New Zealand.

Over on Channel 5, Downton Abbey legend Phyllis Logan takes on a gritty role in Murder Most Puzzling, portraying the wine-guzzling crossword master Cora Felton.

For Channel 4, on the other hand, Silent Witness actress Emilia Fox leaves no stone unturned as she explores some of Britain’s unresolved cases alongside Professor David Wilson in the third series of true crime show, In The Footsteps of Killers.

Ryan Reynolds narrates a light-hearted documentary about nature’s benchwarmers – from insects to amphibians(Image: National Geographic)

Underdogs

Monday, Disney+

Ryan Reynolds flips the script and pays tribute to the bottom of the food chain in this light-hearted documentary. Teaming up with National Geographic, the Deadpool star lifts the lid on the secret lives of nature’s benchwarmers, from slugs and insects to amphibians and fish.

Featuring a range of never-before-filmed scenes, each episode of this five-part series shines alight on their bizarre mating strategies, dubious parenting skills and even their most nauseating behaviours as it finally gives these overlooked superstars their well-deserved glory.

Old Trafford plays host to the world’s biggest celebrity charity match with Tyson Fury and Wayne Rooney set to co-manage England(Image: PA)

Soccer Aid for UNICEF

Sunday, ITV1

Old Trafford plays host to the world’s biggest celebrity charity match once again, as Soccer Aid for UNICEF returns for its 2025 showdown.

This year’s star-studded line-up sees the England team face off against the Soccer Aid XI FC in a match that’s as much about heart as it is about goals.

Expect football legends like Wayne Rooney, Jill Scott and Gary Neville, alongside celebrities like Tyson Fury, Vicky McClure and Tom Grennan. All in aid of one brilliant cause – helping children everywhere.

Pale Mountains

Monday, C4

This chilling new crime thriller plunges us into Bolzano, Southern Tyrol, where Italian detective Paolo (played by Matteo Martari) is forced to face his past when a serial killer he once hunted – costing him a leg and his girlfriend – resurfaces after years in hiding, targeting German-speaking victims.

Caught up in a cold case that turns into an obsession, Paolo teams up with the sharp and ambitious assistant DA Eva Kofler (Elena Radonicich) as the pair navigate cultural divides, buried trauma and grisly secrets in this stylish, slow-burn nail-biter.

My Life is Murder

Tuesday, 9pm, U&Alibi

Lucy Lawless reprises her role as PI Alexa Crowe in the fourth season of this loveable crime drama from Down Under. When a wealthy socialite dies in suspicious circumstances, leaving her entire fortune to her cat, Alexa investigates a heady world of high society gossip.

Aided by tech guru Madison (Ebony Vagulans), cafe owner Reuben (Joe Naufahu), brother Will (Martin Henderson) and detective Harry (Rawiri Jobe), Alexa also comes face to face with new potential enemies with Bill Bailey and Rodger Corser making guest appearances.

Professor David Wilson and Emilia Fox return to screens to front the third season of In the Footsteps of Killers(Image: Channel 4)

In the Footsteps of Killers

Emilia Fox (Silent Witness) returns alongside leading criminologist Professor David Wilson for the gripping third season of In the Footsteps of Killers. Each episode sees the pair reopen Britain’s most baffling unsolved murders – cold cases left gathering dust for decades.

Armed with cutting-edge forensic science and razor-sharp criminological insight, they retrace the victim’s final moments, challenge old assumptions, and uncover fresh leads the original investigations missed. It’s real-time justice in motion.

The Buccaneers return for a second season on Apple TV+(Image: Copyrighted)

The Buccaneers

Wednesday, Apple TV+

After invading the tightly corseted London of the 1870s, the American Buccaneers are fully settled in the second season of the eponymous show – in fact, they’re practically running the place.

Kristine Froseth, Josie Totah, Alisha Boe, Aubri Ibrag and Imogen Waterhouse all reprise their roles as the fun-loving American girls alongside Matthew Broome, Christina Hendricks and Guy Remmers.

Nan now has to navigate influence and power, while Jinny is thrown into the spotlight when she’s wanted for the kidnap of her unborn child. The girls wrestle everything from romance, jealousy and even death as they fight to be heard.

Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell meet new people to help them reconnect with their Long Lost Family(Image: ITV)

Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace

Wednesday, ITV

Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell return for the deeply moving seventh series of Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace. Across three captivating episodes, the team helps individuals who were abandoned as babies discover their biological roots using advanced DNA testing and archival detective work.

With the steady hand of social worker Ariel Bruce, stories unfold that span continents and decades. Heartbreaking yet hopeful, this series remains a tribute to resilience, identity and the enduring human need to belong.

Outrageous is a thrilling look at the lives of the Mitford sisters(Image: KEVIN BAKER)

Outrageous

Thursday, 9pm, U&Drama

Scandal and ideology explode in Outrageous, a darkly-elegant period drama based on the real-life Mitford sisters. At the centre is Susan (Bessie Carter), a whip-smart journalist whose literary voice clashes with the rising fascism of 1930s Britain.

Meanwhile, her sisters fall under the spell of dangerous men: Diana (Joanna Vanderham) is seduced by Oswald Mosley while Unity (Shannon Watson) becomes shockingly smitten with Adolf Hitler. As the world teeters on war, family bonds are pushed to their limits in this gripping tale of loyalty, betrayal and legacy.

Prost

Thursday, BBC4

Four-time World Champion, winner of 51 Grands Prix and F1 legend Alain Prost looks back on his lifelong career, spanning throughout more than four decades in this enlightening six-part series.

From his childhood passion for karting and the ranks to Formula 3 to his triumphs and losses, this show also delves deep into Alain’s iconic rivalry with teammate Ayrton Senna – who eventually became an unexpected friend.

Phyllis Logan stars as Cora Felton in Murder Most Puzzling

Murder Most Puzzling

Downton Abbey’s Phyllis Logan swaps stately homes for sleuthing in this charming new six-part crime drama. As Cora Felton, a sassy, wine-loving crossword columnist with a sharp tongue and even sharper mind, she’s unexpectedly drawn into a murder investigation when a teenage girl is found dead – and a bizarre crossword clue is left by the body.

Teaming up with the reluctant DCI Hooper (Adam Best), Cora becomes the police’s wildcard, solving puzzles and crossing lines in equal measure. Think Miss Marple and Ludwig – but with extra sass.

Corsica: Jewel of the Med

With 600 miles of stunning coastline, Corsica is known as the island of beauty. Now, for 5, this show delves deep into the nation’s lush green forests and majestic mountains and its rich history blending both Italian and French heritage.

The journey takes viewers from Bastia, a foodie paradise on the northeast coast of the island, to its capital, Ajaccio, among the west coast’s thriving hillsides – the birthplace of one of the world’s most famous military leaders, Napoleon Bonaparte.

Isle of Wight Festival

The party kicks off at Seaclose Park with an access-all-areas backstage pass to the summer’s hottest ticket, The Isle of Wight festival 2025.

From the incomparable Sting to the legendary Stereophonics, household names take to the main stage – but that’s not all viewers can expect.

More incredible sets from favourites like Faithless, The Script, Busted, Razorlight, Jess Glynne, Clean Bandit, Supergrass and Olly Murs are all on the bill for another unforgettable evening of classic tunes.

Noel Edmonds opens up about his new life in New Zealand as he takes on an ambitious project(Image: ITV)

Noel Edmonds’ Kiwi Adventure

Friday, ITV

From Deal or No Deal to rural New Zealand, Noel Edmonds has made the ultimate career pivot – and now, he’s inviting viewers along for the ride.

Having ditched UK fame for a new life in the remote village of Ngatimoti, Noel’s now embarking on a bold eco-project: creating the country’s first ever energy garden.

But with unrelenting weather, cultural clashes and a community slow to warm up, it’s no easy ride. Can he make his Kiwi dream grow – or will it wilt?

Presenter, Steph McGovern, was in the hot seat for ITV’s Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? on Saturday and left host, Jeremy Clarkson, seriously impressed with her credentials

Jeremy Clarkson was left gobsmacked by Steph McGovern when she played Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?

Jeremy Clarkson was left gobsmacked by Steph McGovern when she played Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? on Saturday. The Geordie presenter, 43, was in the hot seat, raising money for charity, when she told the petrolhead she’d helped devise an important bit of kit for a heap of British gardeners.

Revealing she’d helped to develop the humble leaf blower, Steph smiled excitedly as Jeremy couldn’t resist digging into her CV. He said: “I was looking at your notes, obviously, business and economics you’re known for, but you’re also a champion Irish dancer and a novelist, and a journalist, and most important of all, an engineer by trade. And you developed the leaf blower! Couldn’t you have made it electric?”

Steph McGovern has a seriously impressive CV!

Steph explained that while she was working at Black+Decker more than 20 years ago, an electric version of the leaf blower wasn’t possible.

However, she said while at the company’s Leaf Hog as part of a Six Sigma team, she helped save the firm £150,000 by improving manufacturing techniques.

Jeremy joked: “There’s nothing more annoying, am I right, than somebody else’s leaf blower?”

Before her TV career with BBC and Channel 4 took off, Steph was an intrepid engineer and won the prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship in 1998 and was crowned Young Engineer for Britain a year later.

Her Millionaire appearance, which was a repeat from earlier this year, was just another string to her bow as she raised an impressive £125,000 for charity.

Steph walked away with the cash for Rubies, a Middlesbrough-based organisation supporting young girls.

“I am happily gonna take the money and am not gonna carry on, if that’s okay”, she told Jeremy, choosing to not risk her winnings on the £250,000 questions.

Rubies, which Steph has supported for over five years, helps create ‘unforgettable’ experiences for girls, including trips to TV studios with the plucky presenter.

On 14 July 2019, Steph revealed that she was pregnant and her girlfriend were expecting their first child. On 4 November later that year, she gave birth to a girl.

This year, the mum-of-one was a finalist in Netflix’s Celebrity Bear Hunt hosted by Bear Grylls and Holly Willoughby. Speaking to Prima about why she decided to do the gruelling show, which sees a host of unlikely British celebrities dropped into the Central American jungle as prey for survivalist Bear, she said: “I’ve previously said no to featuring in reality TV, but when Bear Hunt came along, I thought, ‘This is the one.’ Since hitting my 40s, I’ve been trying to take more risks and it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I learned a lot about myself.

“I had a kid in my 40s, so I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to physically push myself. But after each challenge, I felt such a sense of accomplishment. I’m the type of person who wipes seats before I sit on them, but in the jungle, I really threw myself into it. I released an inner animal!”

* Soccer Aid is on ITV at 6pm on Sunday 15 June

Danny Jones’ wife Georgia has hinted things may be getting back on track for the couple following the Maura Higgins kiss scandal at the Brit Awards

Danny Jones and wife Georgia look to be getting their relationship back on track (Image: Getty Images)

Danny Jones’ wife Georgia has posted about him for the first time since THAT Maura Higgins kiss. The 38-year-old, who shares seven-year-old son Cooper with McFly star Danny, 39, paid tribute to her husband on Father’s Day.

Sharing a snap with her own dad first, former Miss England Georgia then shared a sweet snap of Cooper hugging dad Danny. She cutely captioned the post: “For the Dads. Happy Father’s Day.”

It’s the first time Danny has appeared on Georgia’s grid since he was spotted kissing his I’m A Celebrity co-star Maura at a Brits after party back in March. Danny, who has been married to Georgia for over a decade, issued a grovelling public apology after the drunken snog.

In a statement, he said: “Hello everyone, sorry it’s taken me a while to post this but I’ve taken some time out to be with those closest to me. I want to deeply apologise to my wife and family for putting them in this situation. I love them so much and we’ll continue to deal with this privately.” He added to fans: “I love you guys, thank you for your patience, understanding, and support. See you all soon, Danny.”

Georgia shared this post of son Cooper hugging dad Danny for Father’s Day (Image: Instagram )

After the Maura kiss came to light, Georgia temporarily moved out of their family home. Insiders claimed that the entire ordeal has been “embarrassing” for the mother-of-one, who tied the knot with Danny in 2014.

Back in March, a source claimed that while “they may still be married, they are not together and she is still working out what she wants to do.”

But it’s thought Georgia is now back living in the family home in West London and has returned to host her podcast, Mum’s The Word! with pal Kelsey Parker.

A source told the Mirror in April: “Georgia is returning to face the music after weeks away. She took some time for herself after the incident blew up but now she’s ready to talk.”

“This wasn’t some grand gesture where she suddenly packed her bags and left. It was just a girlie few nights at a close pal’s flat. Yes, she wanted some space, but she is home now, and while things are still fragile, they are trying to work things through,” a separate source confirmed.

Danny, on the other hand, is reported to be keen to work things out and get his marriage with Georgia back on track. “He has made it clear he will do anything to make it work. He loves Georgia and wants their marriage to get back on track,” a source told The Sun.

Last month Danny skipped an appearance at the BAFTA TV awards after it was rumoured Maura would be there. The 34-year-old made a return to the spotlight on the BAFTA red carpet.

Though Maura has remained tight-lipped on the kiss, a source told The Mirror that Maura had been in a “bad way and really struggling”. They said: “Maura is a tough character but the reaction to events has been utterly relentless, and it’s fair to say it’s taken its toll.

“She has found all of this very difficult to navigate. She appreciates she’s in the public eye and there is extra interest around her, but the abuse is off the charts, and people need to calm down. She is trying to treat things as business as usual, but it’s hard.”

The newly appointed ‘Sir’ David Beckham has taken to social media to speak about his most loved role as dad in a sweet Father’s Day post

David Beckham appears to have addressed his ongoing family feud as he spoke out on Father’s Day. The devoted dad is said to have been left devastated by the fallout with eldest son Brooklyn who failed to show up at any of his 50th birthday celebrations last month.

There was more heartbreak for the former England captain when Brooklyn also totally ignored his knighthood this weekend, while the rest of the family rallied round to congratulate him on the long-awaited title.

All eyes had been on Brooklyn to see if the budding chef would mention his dad on Father’s Day. While he has remained completely silent unlike his brothers, David and Victoria appeared to address the elephant in the room in their most candid posts to date on their estranged son.

David began with an apology as he joked about the nickname he still insists they call him. Heartbreakingly, he then said he will be there for his kids ‘no matter what.’ Brooklyn has now cut all ties with his relatives after saying ‘I choose you’ to Nicola as battle lines have been drawn.

Reaching out on Father’s Day, dad David said: “My most important & favourite job in life is being a dad… I’m so proud of all of you and like daddy ( sorry boys ) tells you every single day I will always be here for you no matter what…

He went on: “Mummy thank you for doing the most important part and making me a father there is no greater gift in life than making me a dad… Happy Father’s Day.” Doubling down he continued: “I love you kiddies more than you could imagine.”

David Beckham is said to be heartbroken by the rift ( 
Image:
Anadolu via Getty Images)Victoria Beckham also appeared to send to a pointed message direct to her son Brooklyn on Father’s Day.

The fashion designer posted a video of David and his children in happier times singing along to Sherry by the Four Seasons. David was seen beaming as he cuddled up to Harper with Brooklyn and Cruz at his side.

Alongside the clip, Victoria wrote: “Happy Father’s Day to the best daddy there is!” She went on: “You always lead with love and our beautiful children are a reflection of that. We all love you so so much,” she added.

David Beckham joked his sons hate it when he calls himself ‘daddy’
She then made sure to tag all of her children to remind Brooklyn he has not been forgotten. Victoria followed this up with photos of David and her children at various family parties over the years, including some that Brooklyn hadn’t attended.

A source close to the Beckhams revealed this week that “Brooklyn has told his family he wants no contact and he’s not responding to those that try to connect.”

This weekend will have been a double celebration with Father’s Day coinciding with the announcement David is to be knighted this year release of the King’s Birthday Honours, though it has no doubt been tinged with sadness following Brooklyn’s apparent estrangement from the once tight-knit clan.

The Beckham feud is firing on ( 
Image:
Instagram)
David, who was formerly appointed an officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003, said he wanted to thank all of his family members as he broke his silence on the news he was being made a sir.

While Victoria, Cruz and Romeo all paid tribute to the former England captain and charity ambassador, one person notably absent from the celebrations has been his eldest son Brooklyn.

As the feud appears to rumble on, fans were alarmed to see that Brooklyn has covered up his ‘mama’s boy’ tattoo this month, that was in tribute to his mum.

The doting inking is now gone and has been covered up by a dedication to wife Nicola, of which Brooklyn has over 100 now.

Brooklyn’s body is a shrine to wife Nicola ( 
Image:
E! News/Youtube)Brooklyn, 27, first got the inking in 2018, but appears to have had a change of heart over the past year, obscuring his original body artwork with a bunch of flowers that echoed his wife Nicola’s bridal bouquet from their 2022 wedding.

While tensions are said to have soured even further in recent months.

Sources close to Nicola have previously insisted that as “an outsider coming into the Beckham family, she has helped Brooklyn see the emotional abuse and toxic behaviour within”. The claims – described as “patently untrue and ludicrous” by friends of David and Victoria – were the “nail in the coffin” of any future relationship, according to insiders.

Friends of Nicola Peltz previously blamed Romeo’s now ex girlfriend Kim Turnbull for them not going to David’s 50th. Pals alleged it was because Brooklyn had a brief romantic liaison with the DJ, which was denied by Beckham’s friends.

However, tensions are believed to have first kicked off during Brooklyn and Nicola’s multi million pound nuptials.

Nicola is said to have upset Victoria by refusing to wear a dress her team had designed for the occasion. Speaking to Grazia USA, Nicola said: “We connected to start designing the dress, and then a few days went by, and I didn’t hear anything. Victoria called my mom and said her atelier couldn’t make it.”

Brooklyn shares gushing posts to his wife Nicola on social media, but has ignored his family for months
She went on to say that David and Victoria were “great in-laws” and added that it “hurt her feelings” when it emerged that she had “never planned” to wear a gown by Victoria.

In 2023, in an interview with the Sunday Times, when Nicola was questioned about the alleged feud with Victoria she said: “No family is perfect.”

The following year, Romeo started dating model Kim Turnbull – who was previously linked to Brooklyn before he started dating Nicola. The new romance is said to have caused upset between the brothers with Brooklyn failing to show at numerous family events that follow.

David shared a post of him and Brooklyn in happier times on Father’s Day
The Beckhams seemed to respond by failing to acknowledge Brooklyn and Nicola’s third wedding anniversary. The couple then did not attend mum Victoria’s 51st birthday party and didn’t send any tribute to her on social media, as they have in the past.

At David’s lavish 50th birthday celebrations in London the whole family got together for multiple events but Brooklyn and Nicola were again no-shows.

Days later, David posted an Instagram story from a fishing trip with sons Cruz and Romeo. He captioned the story: “You were missed @brooklynpeltzbeckham.”

In a huge blow to David and Victoria, Brooklyn then appeared to cement the rumours by saying ‘I choose Nicola’ in a damning Instagram post after missing his dad’s birthday.

Filming himself and Nicola on a motorbike ride through Beverly Hills, Brooklyn snapped: “My whole world x I will love you forever x I always choose you baby x you’re the most amazing person i know xx me and you forever baby.”

Insiders have since suggested that those nearest to the Beckhams now dub David and Victoria’s eldest son as ‘the hostage’, speculating that Brooklyn might be under his wife’s sway.

An anonymous source disclosed to MailOnline: “Brooklyn is now being referred to as ‘the hostage.’ He is in a situation where those who love Brooklyn fear that he is being controlled by Nicola and it is heartbreaking.”

The artist said he was “overcome with embarrassment” straight after making the comment, during a trip with King Charles and the now late Pope Francis

The King met the Pope during his tour of Italy(Image: WPA Pool, Getty Images)

For decades, a select group of artists have had the privilege of accompanying the Royal Family on their global travels.

While such an experience is typically a career highlight, one artist has expressed deep regret over a comment he made to King Charles.

Renowned British artist Tim Scott Bolton is among those fortunate enough to meet the monarch. Reflecting on a particular encounter, he admitted that he wished one aspect of the event had unfolded differently.

Speaking to the Daily Mail Weekend magazine, Tim reminisced about joining the King on a 2017 tour of Italy, which included a visit to the Vatican City to meet, the now late, Pope Francis.

Tim joined King Charles for his visit to meet Pope Francis in 2017(Image: Vatican Pool – Corbis, Corbis via Getty Images)

Initially looking forward to the day’s events, he recalled: “Meeting the Pope must be a highlight of anyone’s life, but I’m still haunted by the thought of whether I got it wrong.”

The artist’s excitement was short-lived, as things took a turn when the then Prince of Wales introduced Tim to the Pope. Scott remembered: “When I was introduced as the tour artist, the Pope turned to the Prince and said, ‘I thought you were the artist’, to which the Prince replied, ‘He paints better’.

“I immediately responded, ‘I disagree’, before being overcome with embarrassment that I should have dared to contradict the Prince of Wales in the presence of the Pope.”

It turns out Tim may have been overly concerned about his remarks, as he has subsequently received invitations for two more Royal visits.

Artist Tim Scott Bolton has shared his experience of joining the King on a Royal visit

In one adventurous assignment, Tim jetted off to the Middle East to cover Prince Charles’s trip to Jordan and Egypt in 2021.

Moreover, Tim had the privilege of joining Charles on one of his initial European visits after he became King. Sharing his experiences on his website, he mentioned: “I was honoured to be invited to accompany Their Majesties The King and Queen on their first Royal Tour to Germany.”

Detailing the alterations to the trip, he continued: “The French leg of the original programme had to be postponed due to rioting in Paris which left 2 nights in Berlin. The Hotel Adlon, our residence was fortunately adjacent to the Brandenburg gate and the weather was moody but fine so I did what I could in the short time available.”

The King joined fellow Royals yesterday to mark the Trooping the Colour(Image: Chris Jackson, Getty Images)

Fast forward over two years, and the King has celebrated another significant occasion on the Royal agenda.

On Saturday 14 June, he appeared with other members of the Royal Family on Buckingham Palace’s balcony during his Trooping the Colour celebrations.

Among those joining him were; his wife Queen Camilla, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their three children; Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

The traditional Trooping of the Colour has marked the official birthday of the British Sovereign for over 260 years.

At age 24, an acid attack left model turned activist and Loose Women star Katie Piper severely burned. Now in her 40s, it’s given her a unique perspective on ageing and beauty

Presenter, campaigner and author of Still Beautiful Katie Piper. Photo: Sophia Spring

Ahead of turning 40 in 2023, Katie Piper began to notice a certain theme in questions about this approaching milestone. “It kind of had shame attached to it,” she says. “Like, ‘How do you feel about it?’ or ‘Do you want to print your real age?’ It was a strange feeling, because obviously, for me, 40 represents surviving, still being here, being alive.”

The fact that other people framed 40 as something to fear, to avoid, even to regret, gave Piper pause for thought and the inspiration for her new book, Still Beautiful: On Age, Beauty and Owning Your Space. She felt she had something of significance to say about ageing, about beauty and ageing and, most importantly, about the beauty and privilege of ageing.

Seventeen years after surviving an acid attack, English television personality Katie Piper admits that she’s never fully been “discharged” from medical care.

The 41-year-old panelist for British talk show Loose Women recently spoke to the Mirror and opened up about her recovery over the years and her desire to get to a point where she’s healthy again.

“I’m never discharged. I have to go back for my eyes, nose, and throat,” she said. “I learned at such a young age the value of looking after your mind, your body, how our health is a privilege and how it can suddenly change.”

“I’ve had this unique experience as a 20-something where I know what it is like to be incapacitated, to be ill, to be in hospital for a long time,” she explained. “I always take myself back to that memory of ‘Do all this now, so when you are older, your quality of life is the best it can be.’

“I want to be healthy,” she added. “I take looking after my body as a job. I want the best from it.”

Katie Piper on February 10, 2025, in London.Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty

On Jan. 10, Piper announced on Instagram that she is getting an “artificial eye” because the acid attack left her partially blind. She said she “reached the end of [the] road somewhat, and the decision has been made to try a prosthetic eye shell after “many years battling with my eye health.”

“This marks the start of a journey to have an artificial eye, with an incredible medical team behind me,” Piper wrote. “As always I’m incredibly grateful to all those in the NHS [National Health Service] and private health care system for their talent and kindness.”

Piper added that she would detail her “journey” and that she’s “hopeful and nervous” about the change.

“[I] would love to hear from any of you in the comments if you’ve been on this journey or have any advice,” she wrote, including a video of her fitted with the prosthetic.

Piper’s latest health decision comes 17 years after a March 2008 acid attack arranged by an ex, when she suffered severe burns and was left blind in one eye.

In the years since she has worked as a motivational speaker and television presenter and has launched a foundation. She also released a memoir, Beautiful, in 2011.

The dancer is on the lookout for famous faces to join the BBC show and reveals which pair he’s tried to sign up

Gorka Marquez is using his Soccer Aid debut to line up celebs for Strictly(Image: PA)

Gorka Marquez is using his Soccer Aid debut to recruit celebrities for the next series of Strictly Come Dancing – and has two big names in his sights. The professional dancer takes to the pitch for the charity match tonight at Old Trafford and admits he’s being scouting for talent in the process.

Tapping up marathon legend Sir Mo Farah, 42, and presenter Big Zuu, 29, Gorka reckons they’d both be perfect additions to the BBC show. “I should be the new casting director,” laughed Gorka, 34. “I was saying to Mo Farah he should do it. The nation loves him. He is such a great inspiration for us. So him on Strictly, such a legend, and I think because he has the stamina, he’s light on his feet, he’d be brilliant. Big Zuu too. I said to him a few months ago, and today I said it again, ‘You would win Strictly,” I said, ‘and I’ll dance with you.’ He’s hilarious and he can move. He’s very good.”

Gorka Marquez is using his Soccer Aid opportunity to tap up potential celebrities for Strictly(Image: ©UNICEF/Soccer Aid Productions/Stella Pictures)

Gorka lines up for the World XI FC team tonight as they take on England in the Soccer Aid for UNICEF match. England took the crown last summer and fan favourites including Lioness Jill Scott and singer Tom Grennan will be back as well new signings including boxer Tyson Fury and former England goalkeeper Joe Hart. One Direction star Louis Tomlinson returns as does Manchester United ace Wayne Rooney.

Gorka says he won’t be shirking from the tough tackles – even with Strictly just one month away. “Dancers are so robust,” he said. “We get injured and we carry on dancing, you know? We’re used to having injuries and niggles so I will be fine. I mean, I touch wood. No one gets injured. I don’t get injured. In a month of time, I’m starting Strictly so I’d hopefully be careful.”

Gorka has been impressed with Sir Mo Farah’s fancy footwork on the pitch and thinks he’d be a great on Strictly(Image: PA)

Competitive Gorka says he the celebs might be pals off the pitch, but they won’t be on it. “I’m going in,” vowed Gorka. “We wanna win, you know? We’re friends now but there’s no friends on Sunday.” Taking no prisoners, Gorka says he won’t be afraid to take on his idols. “For example, if I have to tackle Paul Scholes, I’d tackle him, then I will go, ‘I’m so sorry. Big fan!” he laughed.

Speaking at the team’s training session at Champneys in Tring, Herts, Spanish dancer Gorka said he’s was loving being involved and helping a worthwhile cause in the process. “I just feel like a bit like an imposter syndrome being here,” he admits.

“There are so many people that I admired growing up, professional footballers and celebrities like Steven Bartlett, I listen to his podcast every day. I’m very privileged and it’s so for such a great cause, raising money for children so they can have the basic things that we take for granted.”

Big Zuu has also been tapped up by Gorka (Image: Mike Marsland/WireImage)

Dad-of-two Gorka says he could pass for a footballer with his skills and look. “When I was growing up, I was playing football until I was 14 and then I choose dancing,” he explained. “A lot of people said I could have been a footballer. They say I look more like one than a dancer because of my tattoos. With dancing, you have to have co coordination. You have to change your rhythms, have speed, stamina, so it pays off on the pitch.”

Gorka says fiance Gemma and kid Mia and Thiago will be watching his Soccer Aid debut from home(Image: UKTV/Mark Forrer)

But he says don’t bet on him scoring any goals. “When I’m in front of the goalkeeper, I might have the wrong foot to score, because I’m like a penguin!” laughed Gorka, who says fiancé Gemma Atkinson, 40, and their two children Mia, five, and Thiago, one, will be watching from home.

Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2025 will take place on Sunday 15th June at Old Trafford, Manchester and will be shown live exclusively on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player. Donate to UNICEF ahead of the match at socceraid.org.uk/donate. This year, thanks to the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, every donation you make to Soccer Aid for UNICEF will be doubled – up to £5 million.

He hosted the iconic show for years…

This Morning favourite Dermot O’Leary previously revealed why he was forced to confront Simon Cowell during their X Factor days.

TV presenter Dermot hosted the iconic ITV singing competition for eight years. He ended up leaving in 2015 and was replaced by Olly Murs and the late Caroline Flack.

A year later though, Dermot – who is hosting Soccer Aid today (June 15) – was brought back by Simon to host the show again. But according to Dermot, he was not too happy when he returned – and he soon called out Simon…

Dermot hosted the show for years (Credit: SplashNews.com)

This Morning star Dermot O’Leary’s shock at lack of airtime

In 2020, Dermot shared that he previously confronted show boss Simon over his lack of screen time on X Factor.

“You’re watching the show one day and going: ‘I’m not in any of this,’” Dermot told The Sun.

Recalling his confrontation with Simon, Dermot added: “He does that great Simon thing where you walk into his house and you’re like: ‘Stick to the plan, say what you want to say.’ And then you sit down, you’re going through it and he goes: ‘Do you want some chicken pie?’ And in your head, you’re like, actually, I really like chicken pie.”

Presenter Dermot continued: “The most delicious chicken pie you’ve had in your life turns up and you have this thing and you go: ‘I don’t think I’m in the show enough.’ He goes: ‘Yeah, I totally agree. Yeah, ­absolutely.’ Then you go: ‘Great, now I can just have a great time,’ because he’s great company.”

He headed round to Simon’s house to confront him (Credit: Britain’s Got Talent/YouTube)

Dermot on why he really quit The X Factor

Dermot also previously revealed the real reason he initially left X Factor.

Talking to Event magazine in 2019, Dermot recalled not knowing if his contract was going to be renewed, reportedly just weeks before the show started.

“I made a call to ITV and was told I might be doing it but I might not,” he claimed.

“I’d done eight years there very successfully, and I thought, I’m not playing these games any more. So I called ITV and told them to count me out. Saying ‘no’ was the only power I had.”