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  • Katie Price fumes she’s ‘discriminated’ against as she gives update on finances

    Katie Price fumes she’s ‘discriminated’ against as she gives update on finances

    Former glamour model Katie Price has claimed she is discriminated against as she gave an insight into her life since being cleared of her two bankruptcies earlier this year

    Katie Price
    Katie Price believes she is discriminated against as she voiced her frustrations(Image: We Need To Talk/YouTube)

    Katie Price has shared her frustrations following her two bankruptcies as she claims she is discriminated against. The former glamour model, 47, has been open about her financial woes over the years.

    She has endured a tumultuous six years of money struggles, including two bankruptcies. The second of which happened following a significant tax debt of more than £750,000.

    However, in March she revealed she has been discharged from this – and is now ready to enjoy successes in the future. Katie, who once had a fortune of £40million, has still been hit by the consequences of her bankruptcies despite being cleared.

    Katie Price
    Katie has been declared bankrupt twice(Image: Getty Images for The Cambridge U)

    The mum-of-five has revealed her financial situation is still hammering her life, having moved out of her Mucky Mansion last year. Following the move, Katie admitted she struggled to find somewhere else to live.

    She has claimed estate agents held a “black mark” against her name due to her well-known finances. Katie said she would receive calls from agents explaining properties had been rented to someone else after she expressed interest, yet claims they were still up for rent.

    It has left Katie believing she is being discriminated against as she tries to move forward. Speaking on the Katie Price Show podcast, Katie said: “I love it how I have gone through all what I have because I will get there again.

    “I just have a problem with when you have been in a bankruptcy, you just can’t get anything. It is so annoying because I earn such good money. I earn, like I did back in the day, really good money but it makes no difference if you earn the money.”

    She explained: “Once you get that black mark against your name, there’s nothing you can do. Even when I go to rent a house, as soon as they know its my name, it is discrimination.

    “They are like ‘Oh no, no’ and I am like ‘Oh is it because of what you’ve read?’. Does it really matter, I have got the money and I can pay upfront. It’s the name that puts people off and it’s such discrimination.”

    Katie was first declared bankrupt for a year in December 2019, despite her worth being estimated at £40million at the time.

    She agreed to pay an eyewatering £12,000 a month to creditors in a bid to dig herself out of debt. Unfortunately, this plan proved unsuccessful, and in July 2020, Katie was back in court at a bankruptcy hearing, where she revealed she was living in rented accommodation which was costing her £4,200 a month.

    In March 2024, Katie was declared bankrupt a second time during a short hearing at London’s Rolls Building, Insolvency and Companies Court.

    At the hearing, it was heard that Katie owed £761,994.05 to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), and that she had not responded in regards to the debt.

    Earlier this year, Katie revealed she has been discharged from her bankruptcies as she celebrated: “I’m so happy. I can finally move on and leave these bankruptcies behind me, focusing only on the positive. Thank you to everyone who supported me throughout this process.”

  • DJ Fat Tony and Stavros Agapiou wedding day details revealed as couple officially tie the knot

    DJ Fat Tony and Stavros Agapiou wedding day details revealed as couple officially tie the knot

    Davina McCall, Kelly Osbourne and Claire Sweeney were among stars cheering on DJ Fat Tony and Stavros Agapiou as they got married on Saturday – with Boy George acting as Master of Ceremonies

    DJ Fat Tony and Stavros Agapiou are officially married
    DJ Fat Tony and Stavros Agapiou are officially married(Image: Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/WireImage)

    Details of DJ Fat Tony and Stavros Agapiou’s lavish wedding have been revealed now the couple have officially tied-the-knot. The couple swapped vows in front of friends, family and A List stars on Saturday.

    Night club DJ Tony, whose real name is Tony Marnach, 58, and creative director Stavros, 32, held a ceremony at Limelight nightclub in London’s Shaftesbury Avenue – a venue where Tony’s track-spinning career began back in the 1980s. The wedding was presided over by Boy George, who served as Master of Ceremonies.

    Among the star guests were Davina McCall, Kelly Osbourne, Neneh Cherry, Patsy Palmer, Claire Sweeney and David Furnish. The grooms wore custom Dior suits, and the wedding guests were ferried by taxis to a nearby hotel for a lavish reception and after party.

    DJ Fat Tony and Stavros Agapiou were seen walking out of the ceremony after tying the knot
    DJ Fat Tony and Stavros Agapiou were seen walking out of the ceremony after tying the knot(Image: CLICK NEWS AND MEDIA)

    The couple have also posed for photographs with HELLO! magazine – to whom they gave an interview. During their marriage chat, Tony explained exactly why he picked the nightclub venue as the location for his big day.

    He told the outlet: “So much went on in that building that was a big part of my life and we really wanted it to be a full circle thing. We wanted to celebrate our love with the people we love around us.”

    Further details are set to be shared via the magazine on 9 June. Ahead of the wedding, a number of celebrities took to social media to share their excitement about the big day. Brookside icon Claire Sweeney was one such star – taking to Instagram to share snaps of herself posing in a shimmering summer dress.

    The 47-year-old soap star posed in a dress by Eliza Jane Howell Evening Wear. The gown shimmered with sequins and included a floral design, and she beamed as she posed for photos, which she shared online.

    Posing with her son Jaxon, 13, whom she shares with her ex Daniel Reilly, the star wrote: “Ready for the wedding of the year @dj_fattony_ @stavrosagapiou.”

    Others from the worlds of fashion, music and reality shows were expected to join the ceremony. A list icon Kate Moss and former The Only Way Is Essex star Gemma Collins were tipped to be taking on roles of bridesmaid at the wedding, while other reports suggested Claire too would be in the role of a bridesmaid.

    The Daily Mail claimed: “The event is said to be taking place at a church in West London, with the likes of David and Victoria Beckham and David Furnish mingling alongside Alison Hammond and Jedward, while Tony previously revealed that he wanted Boy George as his best man.”

    And a source told The Sun: “Tony is one of the most popular people on the London celebrity circuit and his wedding is going to be packed full of stars.

    “No one had Kate, Gemma and Claire in a bridal party on their bingo cards this year, though. It’s going to be incredible to see them lining up together.”

    They added: “Tony and Stavros have put a lot of thought into their big day, and it’s going to be one to remember. As for having Kylie singing at their evening do, it’s iconic.” The couple also marked their wedding day with a social media post.

    The professional DJ shared a slide with the words “Love Wins” written alongside the names Tony and Stavros as well as the date. He added in a caption: “Here we stand at the beginning ………. The happiest chapter of my life.”

  • British Soap Awards 2025 winners list in full as EastEnders storms to victory

    British Soap Awards 2025 winners list in full as EastEnders storms to victory

    EastEnders and Emmerdale were the joint shows to beat at the 2025 British Soap Awards as both had an impressive 13 nominations over 12 categories each – but the BBC soap proved triumphant on the night

    The full winners list of the British Soap Awards 2025 has been unveiled
    The full winners list of the British Soap Awards 2025 has been unveiled(Image: PA)

    EastEnders were the big winners at tonight’s British Soap Awards, taking away the top gong. Named Best British Soap, they beat Emmerdale, Coronation Street and Hollyoaks to the coveted accolade.

    Walking away with eight awards in total, Steve McFadden picked up Best Dramatic Performance and Best Single Episode for Phil Mitchell’s psychosis. It comes in the soap’s 40th anniversary year.

    Hollyoaks got three awards, Emmerdale got two and Coronation Street walked away with one – the Outstanding Achievement Award to David Neilson, who has played Roy Cropper for 30 years. The biggest names in soapland dazzled on the glitter carpet – with Hollyoaks actress Jorgie Porter and Corrie favourite Tina O’Brien both looking sensational in the same dress, a sparkly Oh Polly number.

    EastEnders icons Gillian Taylforth and Anita Dobson were in attendance at the awards
    EastEnders icons Gillian Taylforth and Anita Dobson were in attendance at the awards(Image: PA)

    Speaking before she was presented with the scene of the year award, EastEnders legend Anita Dobson said: “It was just perfect.” And asked if she could return again, she said: “I don’t think so, although I should say never say never, it would have to be something extra special.”

    Gillian Taylforth, who plays Kathy Beale, added: “It was just brilliant, although none of us knew that she was coming back! We’ll need Ange back if anything ever happened to Kathy, not that I want it too.”

    Hosted by Jane McDonald, telly favourites Sir David Jason and Larry Lamb presented awards at London’s Hackney Empire.

    The awards were back after being cancelled last year. Watch the British Soap Awards 2025 on Thursday 5 June via ITV1 and ITVX at 8pm.

    The British Soap Awards 2025 winners list in full;

    BEST BRITISH SOAP

    EastEnders

    BEST LEADING PERFORMER

    EastEnders: Lacey Turner (Stacey Slater)

    VILLAIN OF THE YEAR

    EastEnders: Navin Chowdhry (Nish Panesar)

    BEST COMEDY PERFORMANCE

    Coronation Street: Jack P. Shepherd (David Platt)

    BEST FAMILY

    Hollyoaks: The Osbornes

    BEST DRAMATIC PERFORMANCE

    EastEnders: Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell)

    BEST SINGLE EPISODE

    EastEnders: Phil’s Psychosis: The Mitchells In 1985

    BEST ON-SCREEN PARTNERSHIP

    EastEnders: Rudolph Walker & Angela Wynter (Patrick & Yolande Trueman)

    BEST NEWCOMER

    Hollyoaks: Isabelle Smith (Frankie Osborne)

    BEST STORYLINE

    Hollyoaks: Sibling Sexual Abuse

    BEST YOUNG PERFORMER

    Emmerdale: Amelia Flanagan (April Windsor)

    SCENE OF THE YEAR

    EastEnders: Angie Watts’ Shock Return

    OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

    David Neilson presented by Julie Hesmondhalgh

    THE TONY WARREN AWARD

    Emmerdale – MIKE PLANT

  • JESSICA BOULTON: From Gazza to Beckham – 6 jaw-dropping showbiz moments we must discuss this week

    JESSICA BOULTON: From Gazza to Beckham – 6 jaw-dropping showbiz moments we must discuss this week

    Brooklyn Beckham’s balls of steel, Jeremy Clarkson’s latest folly, a Lowe blow for The West Wing’s Rob, and a likely new victim in Loose Women’s bloodbath, columnist Jessica Boulton brings you Jess Saying, her wry and witty rundown of the past showbiz week…..

    Who would have thought a dashcam video could cause so much trouble? For the drama of the showbiz week got off to a racing start on Monday, thanks to Brooklyn Beckham, his wife Nicola Peltz and their ongoing feud with his ma and pa, Posh and Becks.

    It all started when the nepobabies posted a very ‘pointed’ video of themselves enjoying a loved-up motorbike ride through LA last weekend – and by the start of this week it was all anyone could talk about on social media.

    The video and its loved up soundtrack, was seen by many as a clear message from chef/photographer/filmmaker/influencer/nepobrat Brooklyn to his long-suffering mum and dad Victoria and David Beckham. That message was clear: Thanks for the lavish lifestyle, probable £125million inheritance and hooking me up for jobs with all your high-profile friends….but I’m Team Peltz.

    Brooklyn Beckham vows to 'always choose' Nicola Peltz in caption to this cringeworthy Instagram video
    Brooklyn Beckham vows to ‘always choose’ Nicola Peltz in caption to this cringeworthy Instagram video 
    Image:
    instagram.com/brooklynpeltzbeckham)

    The controversial motorbike video showed them riding through LA to a soppy soundtrack - and even soppier captions on their associated Instagram post
    The controversial motorbike video showed them riding through LA to a soppy soundtrack – and even soppier captions on their associated Instagram post 
    Image:
    @brooklynpeltzbeckham/Instagram)
    Brooklyn then went and ramped things up a gear by adding a super-soppy caption addressed to his wife, in which he cooed – **WARNING: SICK BAG REQUIRED** – “I always choose you, baby.”

    Insiders on one side of the Posh and Becks V Peltz alleged feud, claimed it was a veiled dig at his parents; insiders on the other, claimed it was a completely innocent declaration of love which Brooklyn just happened to share with his 16.3m followers on a day when his family fallout just happened to be making global headlines. Ahem. I’ll say one thing for Brooklyn: His dad might be Goldenballs, but Brooklyn’s clearly got balls of steel to go so public.

    Just Potty Tuesday

    Talking of child stars….Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout may not be household names yet….But they soon will be. Because these three lucky, lucky British kids have just won the Hollywood lottery. Yes, they’ve been selected from an open casting call of 30,000 children to be – wait for it – the new Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley.

    L-R: Arabella Stanton (the new Hermione), Dominic McLaughlin (Harry), and Alastair Stout (Ron)
    L-R: Arabella Stanton (the new Hermione), Dominic McLaughlin (Harry), and Alastair Stout (Ron) 
    Image:
    HBO)
    That’s right: one day, these three were going to school and doing the odd bit of acting at a weekend drama club and then – poof! just like magic – the three 9-11-year-olds had landed new roles in the upcoming big-budget HBO TV series and were on the Hogwarts Express straight to a life of fame, riches and A-List perks.

    Naturally, my first thought was….“ Oh my gosh, am I seriously jealous of a bunch of nine-to-11-year-olds?” (Yes, Yes I am). And then, more importantly, what exactly does this mean for Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and co? They’ve been the faces of those iconic characters for 25 years and feature on untold billions of bits of merchandising. So how’s it going to feel for them when a whole new generation of fans talks about the half-blood prince and doesn’t picture Radcliffe at all?

    Their replacements weren’t even born when the last Potter movie was released in 2011. And when the spin-off Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them hit screens in 2016, they were only toddlers at best. That’s more of a mindboggler than a pint of polyjuice.

    All that brings me to two very disturbing realisations:

      There’s a packet of Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans at the back of my cupboard which is older than the new Harry;
      This guy (below) is no longer the only one feeling a bit old hat….

    The Hogwarts' Sorting Hat
    The Hogwarts’ Sorting Hat

    LGBTQEIEI…O Wednesday

    You can’t mention JK Rowling without plunging headfirst into the Trans rights row. But the pro-trans rights lobby found itself a very unlikely ally this week: Mr Jeremy Clarkson.

    For in the latest episode of Clarkson’s Farm, farmer Kaleb Cooper was seen explaining some interesting news to the former Top Gear host: Endgame, his prize bull, was gay and one of the piglets was possibly trans. Quite how Kaleb knew this, is about as clear as mud (that the piglet was playing in). But how lovely that someone so, um, ‘ Clarkson-like ’ as Clarkson has such an inclusive farmyard.

    I mean, who would have thought? A gay bull, some trans pigs and a morbidly-obese donkey all under one roof?

    Oh, hang on, my mistake. Diddly Squat is home to a giant ass.

    But he doesn’t live in the barn.

    Loose Lips Thursday

    Nadia Sawalha might have been a bit rash when she decided to livestream on Thursday. Because if there’s one thing you probably shouldn’t do when your show’s about to implode….Is throw petrol on the fire (and blow yourself up along with it).

    But Loose Women star Nadia bravely/stupidly wasn’t pulling any punches when she let rip about the savage ITV daytime cuts in a new social media video she posted this week. Speaking alongside her producer husband Mark Adderley, the former Mirror columnist started by tearfully blasting the ‘hundreds” of “brutal” redundancies.

    “I cannot tell you how upsetting it was to see people walking around numb with shock and fear about what they are going to do,” she said. “It’s brutal.”

    Don’t get me wrong, it’s admirable Nadia’s speaking out. But when Loose Women’s about to turn into a bigger bloodbath than your average soap wedding, one wonders if it was the wisest thing to do.

    And yet, Nadia continued. And amazingly, she even decided to save HR the trouble of digging out her contract, to check her employment terms. “We are all freelance,” she told fans. “I could be let go tomorrow, in five years, you don’t know because we’re not employees.”

    Nadia Sawalha's lifestream with hubby Mark Adderley.
    Nadia Sawalha’s lifestream with hubby Mark Adderley. Inset, what she should be wearing considering how loose lipped she’s being…..
    I don’t know what you’re thinking Nadia, but with the way you’re going, I figured I best send you this snazzy t-shirt (inset, above). Now you can have a target on your front….to match the one you’ve just put on your back.

    Gazza gets booked Friday

    Someone’s looking on top form! Yes, Gazza is making a comeback after embarking on a new fitness regime – and looks healthier than ever. The footie ace, 58, has a newfound enthusiasm for cycling, fishing, tennis, and – surprise, surprise – penning books.

    Paul Gascoigne pictured ahead of the release of his new autobiography
    Gazza says he’s the happiest he’s been in years 
    Image:
    Rowan Griffiths / Daily Mirror)

    Paul Gascoigne pictured ahead of the release of his new autobiography
    ….And now he’s preparing to show the world the real him in what promises to be an explosive new tell-all, when it hits shelves this October 
    Image:
    Rowan Griffiths / Daily Mirror)
    For the star has just announced he’s going to be doing his first tell-all autobiography in 20 years, as he finally feels ready to show people the “real” him. It’s good news for the fans. But there’s one person the former Lion’s a little worried to think will be reading it: Mamma Gazza. “There’s laughs, tears, madness – and probably a few things I’ll regret saying once me mam reads it,” he admitted.

    Never mind, Mrs Gascoigne – I’m sure whatever Paul has to share, it won’t be the most embarrassing thing he’s ever put you through. No, that ship sailed 35 years ago….Not with his famous tears on the pitch at Italia 90. But with our infamous tears over his pitch…on THAT 1990 single. “Fog On The Tyne, is all mine, all mine,” he ‘sang’. So my question is: if that was true, why didn’t he just do us all a favour and keep it to himself?

    Picture of the Week

    Rob Lowe, 61, and son Johnny, 29
    *Thirst Trap: Def. [noun] A snap that makes you stop in your tracks on social media. Usually involves a six pack – but only of the abs variety. Demonstrated superbly above by Rob Lowe, 61, and son Johnny, 29. 
    Image:
    rob lowe / instagram)
    As family traditions go….I don’t hate it. For Rob Lowe is no stranger to an Instagram ‘thirst trap’* and it seems he’s now got his lookalike son Johnny, 29, involved. The pair, who star together in Netflix’s comedy Unstable, shared this snap of them showing off their abs in a post-workout snap this week. And despite being 61, I’ve got to say…. Rob’s still looking hotter than St Elmo’s Fire.

    The West Wing star captioned the shot: “Lowe family tradition: self indulgent shirtless gym photos.” It seems not everyone is buying into the tradition though. Rob’s other son Matthew, 32, made a very cheeky quip, saying: “Why does it look like you photoshopped your head on [Johnny]”? Ouch. I’m guessing that’s what you call a Lowe blow?

    Jess a little one

    Aww, just look at that happy face! And those puppy dog eyes! He’s such a good, good boy, isn’t he?… And – yes – the dog’s cute too. (Sorry, couldn’t resist).

    Dr Janey Lowes of WCare with pup and Ben Fogle
    Dr Janey Lowes of WCare with pup and Ben Fogle

    Yes, the lovely Ben Fogle is proving an all-round Mr Nice Guy again after signing up as the new patron of WECare. The charity is run by former Daily Mirror Animal Heroes winner Dr Janey Lowes, and has helped 25,000 Sri Lankan street dogs, be it through with neutering and vaccination programmes aor treating injuries. Presumably Ben’s role as patron includes many official duties, but if cuddling the patients is one of them… these pups are some lucky sons of a you-know-wotsits.

  • “Tears, Silence, and Uncertainty: Dick Van Dyke’s Wife Speaks Out as 99-Year-Old Icon Faces ‘Difficult Day’” A rare glimpse into the emotional toll of watching a legend fade.

    “Tears, Silence, and Uncertainty: Dick Van Dyke’s Wife Speaks Out as 99-Year-Old Icon Faces ‘Difficult Day’” A rare glimpse into the emotional toll of watching a legend fade.

    ‘Today is not a good day’

    Fans of Dick Van Dyke have shared their concerns over the actor’s health after he dropped out of an event last minute.

    The 99-year-old acting legend was due to host a musical fundraising event, Vandy Camp, last weekend.

    However, Dick had to cancel his appearance after getting “sick” – and concerns have since poured in for the award-winning actor.


    The actor had to pull out of an event (Credit: CoverImages.com)

    Dick Van Dyke drops out of event due to ‘sick’ health

    Dick was expected to co-host the Vandy Camp event with his wife Arlene Silver on Saturday (June 28) at the Arlene & Dick Van Dyke Theater at Malibu High School.

    Unfortunately, Arlene announced at the event that Dick was not having a “good day” and had to drop out of his appearance.

    After walking on the stage, she told the audience she was “not the Van Dyke you’re expecting,” according to People magazine.


    His wife announced the news (Credit: CoverImages.com)

    ‘Today is not a good day’

    “I have to inform you that Dick is not up to coming to celebrate with us today. I’m sorry,” Arlene said.

    She added: “When you’re 99-and-a-half years old, you have good days and bad days, and when you’re 40 years old, you have good days and bad days.

    “Unfortunately, today is not a good day for him, and he’s sick that he can’t be here.”

    Dick ended up attending the event via a livestream later on. Arlene also told his fans that Dick would be at the next Vandy Camp event “in person”.

    Fans share their concerns

    Following the news of Dick dropping out of the event, fans online rushed to X to share their concerns.

    One person said: “Prayers that he’s feeling much better soon.”

    Someone else wrote: “Please Please Please for the love of goddess, we have got to take care of Dick Van Dyke! He is American Entertainment Royalty of which there is very few left, Hollywood & NY are not producing any young up & coming entertainers close to his level.”

    A third fan also penned: “Sending all my best wishes to Mr Dick Van Dyke at this time.”

  • KATIE’S BATTLE Loose Women’s Katie Piper reveals she considered killing evil ex-boyfriend after acid attack in new prison documentary

    KATIE’S BATTLE Loose Women’s Katie Piper reveals she considered killing evil ex-boyfriend after acid attack in new prison documentary

    Katie admitted if her “childhood had been different” she might have attempted to kill her ex-boyfriend

    LOOSE Women star Katie Piper has revealed she considered murdering her ex-boyfriend and attacker after he raped, stabbed and arranged an acid attack on her.

    The TV presenter was left with life-threatening injuries after the horrifying string of violent attacks in 2008, which saw David Lynch order a friend to throw sulphuric acid at her face.

    Katie Piper at the European premiere of "The Amateur."
    3

    Katie has admitted she considered killing her ex after the attackCredit: Splash

    Katie Piper standing in a prison common area with inmates in the background.
    3

    Katie travels to Louisiana in her new UKTV documentary series about prisonCredit: U&W
    Katie has long been open about her fears of Lynch, 48, wanting to harm or even attempt to kill her again on his release, but she’s now admitted she’s also had to work through thoughts of killing Lynch.

    Sitting down with a female inmate in her new series Locked Up In Louisiana, who was put behind bars for murdering her husband in what she claims was self-defence against long term domestic violence, Katie admitted: “I was beaten and raped, and then a couple of days later I had acid thrown in my face.

    “I had that moment where I felt like he was beating me, he was going to kill me.

    “I always thought if someone was going to kill me, I would defend myself, but what happened was I froze out of fear and I didn’t do anything to him and a couple of days later, somebody threw the acid at me.

    “I spent a lot of time in hospital, it was very different from prison, but I spent a lot of time isolated and in bed thinking that I should’ve killed him.”

    The former model has undergone hundreds of surgeries to repair her face and eyesight following the attack, which took place when she was 24 years old.

    This year, she underwent a procedure to give her an “artificial eye”  to protect her damaged left eye.

    Katie’s criminal ex, who organised an acid attack on her, could face release in the coming weeks after he was granted a parole hearing next month to discuss moving him to an open prison.

    Lynch, 48, was put behind bars for life with a minimum sentence of 16 years in 2009 for instructing Stefan Sylvestre to throw sulphuric acid at Katie days after raping and stabbing her in a hotel room.

    Lynch will appear before the parole board on June 3 and 4 to ask to be moved to a facility with greater freedom, which is a step closer to his release, which is currently due in two years.

    Moment virgin has sex on Virgin Island with surrogate partner

    Katie Piper shares emotional health update after eye surgery as she says she’s finally ‘reached the end of the road’
    Katie travels to New Orleans for her new series on U&W, in which the Loose Women panellist sits down with female inmates accused of murder to discuss what pushes people to commit violent crimes.

    Among them is Tonica Williams, 45, who was charged with second degree murder for killing her husband, and is facing a mandatory life sentence for a crime she claims was self-defence.

    In the series, she reveals the relationship between her and her late ex-husband had long been abusive, having even “sent him to jail” on domestic violence charges before the altercation that killed him.

    Reflecting on Tonica’s decision to kill her husband, Katie added: “I’d never experienced trauma or abuse until I was attacked, but that’s not the case for these women behind bars.

    “Tonica first saw somebody shot and a dead body at the age of six, and I can’t comprehend what that must have been like and what that does to you.

    “Lots of the women in this film were in a situation of kill or be killed, obviously that isn’t a path that I took but maybe if my childhood had been different, who knows?”

    Katie Piper: Locked Up In Louisiana airs on U&W from April 27.

    Katie Piper in a hospital gown, recovering from eye surgery.
    3

    Katie has undergone hundreds of surgeries after the horrifying attackCredit: Instagram

  • Is Ryan Thomas staying on Coronation Street and why did he leave? Jason Grimshaw’s fate revealed

    Is Ryan Thomas staying on Coronation Street and why did he leave? Jason Grimshaw’s fate revealed

    Ryan Thomas is back in Coronation Street tonight as Jason Grimshaw, but why did he leave in the first place and why is he back on the ITV soap?

    Ryan alongside his co-stars Gareth and Sue
    Ryan alongside his co-stars Gareth and Sue(Image: ITV)

    Ryan Thomas is back on the Coronation Street cobbles – nine years after Jason Grimshaw left for Thailand. The Corrie legend is back tonight, reprising his role as Jason after nearly a decade.

    Ryan is back on the Cobbles amid a huge exit storyline for his mum Eileen Grimshaw, as actress Sue Cleaver quits her role on the soap after decades playing the iconic character. He returns tonight – but for a very specific reason.

    “He’s struggling for money, his girlfriend left him, and he needs his mum. He says he’s come back for Eileen, but he really needs a cuddle and his safety net,” he tells us of his character’s decision to come back.

    Ryan admitted he felt nervous about his return and it was a “shock to the system” being back. He said: “I couldn’t sleep the night before. Even though I’d been there half my life, I felt like the new kid at school. It took me half a day to get rid of the nerves. It was a bit of a shock to the system at first. I even went on YouTube to rewatch old scenes and got nervous.

    Jason is back from Thailand!
    Jason is back from Thailand!(Image: ITV)

    “He’s embraced the Thai way of life. I wanted to come back in the builder’s outfit, but it made sense that he’s in a different phase of his life now. He is all linen trousers and bracelets and beads. It gives you a feel of this older Jason whose life is away from the Cobbles.”

    Fans will be no doubt hoping that Jason might be making a permanent return to the show – but sadly, it has been confirmed his return will just be a brief stint to help Coronation Street fans say goodbye to Eileen.

    “It was a mix of nostalgia and gratitude for what the show has done for me. When they told me Eileen was leaving, it felt right to be a part of that storyline for her and revisit where it all started,” he said.

    Ryan says he has “no regrets” about coming back and admits it was “real fun” stepping into the character once again.

    “I have no regrets. It’s been the perfect storyline and a real memory I can cherish. It felt like the old days, we’ve all been in the canteen, having lunch together and I had real fun,” he said of his return.

    The specifics of Jason’s return are being kept under wraps – and how long he stays. He had originally left all the way back in 2016. At the time, he called his decision a big risk.

    “It’s a risk to leave a show like Coronation Street. I was in a bubble for 16 years. I love the place, it feels like home and I miss people there. But I really enjoy my time out of Corrie, getting to do new things. There’s a time to spread your wings and I felt like that was the time for me. I was ready,” he told The Mirror about his decision to leave.

  • The Grand Tour shake-up as original trio ‘replaced by younger and cooler new hosts’

    The Grand Tour shake-up as original trio ‘replaced by younger and cooler new hosts’

    The Grand Tour was hosted by Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond for Prime Video but there’s now speculation over their potential replacements on the show

    Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond, all in shirts, dark jackets and jeans, at an event in 2024.
    There’s speculation over Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond’s potential replacements as hosts of the Grand Tour(Image: Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty Images)

    There’s speculation over the line-up for the Grand Tour, with news hosts said to have signed up. It’s been teased that Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond’s apparent replacements are “younger” and “cooler”.

    Jeremy, 65, James, 62, and Richard, 55, hosted the Prime Video show together from 2016 until it ended last year. They are looking back over it in four special episodes though. One has aired so far and it was previously announced that the others will be released “later this year and into 2026”. It has now been reported that their replacements for the Grand Tour have been decided. It’s claimed that Thomas Holland and James Engelsman – who run the Throttle House channel on YouTube – will front the motoring TV show with viral trainspotter Francis Bourgeois, 24, moving forward.

    Francis Bourgeois holding onto handrails as he rides a First Bus
    It’s been reported that TikTok star Francis Bourgeois is lined up as a new host for the Grand Tour(Image: Katielee Arrowsmith/PinPep)

    A source has told the Sun: “Thomas and James are as knowledgeable about motors as Jeremy, Richard and James – the only difference is they’re younger, cooler and a lot more social media savvy. Francis became famous for his love of trainspotting and will be bringing his humour to the show.”

    Thomas and James are behind the brand Throttle House, which has more than 3 million subscribers on YouTube. Through the channel, the pals post “everything from car reviews to track tests, to epic adventures”. Launched by Thomas, the channel dates back to 2013 and James later joined as a presenter in 2018.

    Francis – whose real name is Luke Nicolson – instead rose to fame through TikTok in 2021. He’s known for posting content about trains, including footage of himself trainspotting, and has more than 3 million followers on the platform

    Thomas Holland in a black top and trousers in front of a car with the bonnet open.
    It’s claimed that he will front the show alongside the duo behind Throttle House, which includes Thomas Holland(Image: Instagram/thomasholland_th)

    It was reported earlier this year that he was being considered for the Grand Tour. A source previously told the Sun: “Francis is a big noise online and Amazon producers are hoping to bring him into the mainstream. […] Francis is not just a social media sensation but trained as a mechanical engineer so knows his stuff.”

    The latest speculation about the line-up comes after former host James May suggested that a younger generation should take the helm of motoring shows like the Grand Tour. He spoke about stepping back on Australia’s ABC News in March.

    After suggesting that he wouldn’t reunite with Jeremy and Richard in such a role, he said: “It was probably time for us to stop because we always said we would land it … we would land it with dignity not fly it into the cliffs. That’s the way we used to talk about it. We have come close to flying it into the cliffs a few times so it was probably the right time to stop.”

    James Engelsman in a blue shirt sat in a silver car with the door open.
    Thomas’ presenting partner James Engelsman is said to be the third new host of the Prime Video show(Image: Instagram/jamesengelsman)

    Discussing the future, he suggested that the former Top Gear presenters are “getting on a bit”. He then proposed that a “younger generation” should find a “new way” of discussing motoring, as opposed to their potentially “dated” view.

    He said at the time: “We’re getting on a bit. Our view of the subject is probably becoming a bit dated. It’s time for a younger generation to reevaluate it and think of a new way of talking about things like cars and transport generally.”

    James expressed hope that “somebody out there” will be able to, though said he wasn’t sure “exactly” how. He said in the interview: “I don’t know how they’re going to do it exactly but I feel sure there must be somebody out there.”

  • Emmerdale announce Joe Absolom is joining soap as ‘dark’ villain with a huge secret

    Emmerdale announce Joe Absolom is joining soap as ‘dark’ villain with a huge secret

    ITV soap Emmerdale has announced yet another fresh face to the village – with actor Joe Absolom set to be joining the cast this summer in a dark upcoming storyline

    Joe Absolom
     Joe Absolom will be joining the cast of Emmerdale(Image: ITV)

    There’s another fresh face expected in Emmerdale this year. The ITV soap has just announced that acclaimed actor, Joe Absolom, will be joining the cast this summer, playing Ray, an old contact of Mackenzies.

    TV fans will recognise Joe from his wealth of television, theatre and film credits, including Doc Martin, The Bay and most recently playing the role of Braden Moore in Code of Silence.

    Soap fans will also recognise the star from his role Matthew Rose in BBC soap EastEnders from 1997 to 2000.

    Speaking on his upcoming role in the soap, Joe said: “Well what an honour to join such a talented team at Emmerdale! It’s an iconic show and I’m grateful to be part of it. I can’t wait to see what’s in stock for Ray!”

    Joe Absolom
    Joe Absolom will join Emmerdale as Ray(Image: ITV)

    As for his upcoming storyline, the soap have revealed that the character, like many others, will have a dark side. Ray will arrive at the farm claiming to be selling farm machinery but it won’t be long before his true drug dealing ways become clear.

    Despite Ray’s calm and collected exterior, it’s clear a menacing streak hides just below the surface.

    The cast and crew are thrilled to have John on board, as Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: “We are thrilled to welcome Joe Absolom to the cast. It’s fantastic to have such a high calibre and immensely talented actor join our wonderful team to play the role of Ray.

    Ryan Hawley
    The news comes after Ryan Hawley made his shock return to the soap

    “Charming, charismatic and effortlessly likeable, Ray is an extremely complex character who very quickly shows his dark and villainous side to some of our most loved villagers, leaving them in no doubt as to what he’s capable of”.

    Earlier this year, the soap welcomed Celebrity Big Brother star Bradley Riches as Lewis Barton.

    It was announced in March that Bradley, 23, known for his role on Netflix’s Heartstopper, had joined the cast of the long-running soap opera, and has now become Emmerdale’s first openly neurodivergent character.

    As well as new faces, the soap has also introduced one very familiar face back to the village. This week, fans were left in shock when Ryan Hawley reprised his role as Robert Sudgden, crashing his ex husband Aaron Dingle’s wedding.

    In an interview with Lorraine, the star teased his character was back to “win Aaron back and bring down John Sugden.”

  • British Soap Awards 2025 winners list in full as EastEnders storms to victory

    British Soap Awards 2025 winners list in full as EastEnders storms to victory

    EastEnders and Emmerdale were the joint shows to beat at the 2025 British Soap Awards as both had an impressive 13 nominations over 12 categories each – but the BBC soap proved triumphant on the night

    The full winners list of the British Soap Awards 2025 has been unveiled
    The full winners list of the British Soap Awards 2025 has been unveiled(Image: PA)

    EastEnders were the big winners at tonight’s British Soap Awards, taking away the top gong. Named Best British Soap, they beat Emmerdale, Coronation Street and Hollyoaks to the coveted accolade.

    Walking away with eight awards in total, Steve McFadden picked up Best Dramatic Performance and Best Single Episode for Phil Mitchell’s psychosis. It comes in the soap’s 40th anniversary year.

    Hollyoaks got three awards, Emmerdale got two and Coronation Street walked away with one – the Outstanding Achievement Award to David Neilson, who has played Roy Cropper for 30 years. The biggest names in soapland dazzled on the glitter carpet – with Hollyoaks actress Jorgie Porter and Corrie favourite Tina O’Brien both looking sensational in the same dress, a sparkly Oh Polly number.

    EastEnders icons Gillian Taylforth and Anita Dobson were in attendance at the awards
    EastEnders icons Gillian Taylforth and Anita Dobson were in attendance at the awards(Image: PA)

    Speaking before she was presented with the scene of the year award, EastEnders legend Anita Dobson said: “It was just perfect.” And asked if she could return again, she said: “I don’t think so, although I should say never say never, it would have to be something extra special.”

    Gillian Taylforth, who plays Kathy Beale, added: “It was just brilliant, although none of us knew that she was coming back! We’ll need Ange back if anything ever happened to Kathy, not that I want it too.”

    Hosted by Jane McDonald, telly favourites Sir David Jason and Larry Lamb presented awards at London’s Hackney Empire.

    The awards were back after being cancelled last year. Watch the British Soap Awards 2025 on Thursday 5 June via ITV1 and ITVX at 8pm.

    The British Soap Awards 2025 winners list in full;

    BEST BRITISH SOAP

    BEST LEADING PERFORMER

    EastEnders: Lacey Turner (Stacey Slater)

    VILLAIN OF THE YEAR

    EastEnders: Navin Chowdhry (Nish Panesar)

    BEST COMEDY PERFORMANCE

    Coronation Street: Jack P. Shepherd (David Platt)

    BEST FAMILY

    Hollyoaks: The Osbornes

    BEST DRAMATIC PERFORMANCE

    EastEnders: Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell)

    BEST SINGLE EPISODE

    EastEnders: Phil’s Psychosis: The Mitchells In 1985

    BEST ON-SCREEN PARTNERSHIP

    EastEnders: Rudolph Walker & Angela Wynter (Patrick & Yolande Trueman)

    BEST NEWCOMER

    Hollyoaks: Isabelle Smith (Frankie Osborne)

    BEST STORYLINE

    Hollyoaks: Sibling Sexual Abuse

    BEST YOUNG PERFORMER

    Emmerdale: Amelia Flanagan (April Windsor)

    SCENE OF THE YEAR

    EastEnders: Angie Watts’ Shock Return

    OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

    David Neilson presented by Julie Hesmondhalgh

    THE TONY WARREN AWARD

    Emmerdale – MIKE PLANT